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With the exception of La Esquina, no one goes to a Serge Becker venue to eat. The nightlife impresario — responsible for downtown institutions M.K., Joe’s Pub, and 205, and a consultant for the Box — opened B Bar (then Bowery Bar) in 1994 with Eric Goode, his partner from the eighties dance club Area; the place quickly became a see-and-be-seen hot spot. Though the wattage has dimmed some over the years, it still hosts a popular weekly gay party and the occasional celeb sighting. The high ceilings, gold globe lights, and posh-diner booths make everyone look good and feel sexy. With its enormous greenery-and-Christmas-light covered patio, and a smaller area that’s half indoors, half out, B Bar has the feel of a downtown Tavern on the Green. (No one goes there for the food either.) The menu is full of dishes that were the height of pre-millenial resto-chic (seared ahi tuna, Portobello burgers), with a few Mexican items (burritos, tacos) and some ambitious seasonal specials thrown in. The fare is serviceable or slightly better, especially if your appetite’s less for food than for that young cutie across the bar. — Melena Ryzik

Grilled salmon, $18

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Best of New York Awards

• Best Gay Party (2004)