1. Boat Basin Cafe
Early closing times and a picnic atmosphere make this windy waterfront bar an after-work favorite. Regulars drink beer and frozen margaritas from plastic cups while taking in the sunset. (West 79th Street at the Hudson River; 212-496-5542.)

2. Chelsea Brewing Company
This peaceful pub on the marina houses Manhattan's largest brewery. Watch the boats and down a Checker Cab Blonde or Sunset Red ale on the lantern-lit terrace. (Pier 59, West Side Highway at 18th Street; 212-336-6440.)

3. American Park at the Battery
An after-work Wall Street crowd comes here to mix with Battery Park City residents, particularly at the end of the week. Live music (jazz, blues, cabaret) nightly from 6 to 9, and Sunday afternoons from 1:30 to 4:30, on the patio. (Battery Park, across from 17 State Street; 212-809-5508.)

4. Cabana Nuevo Latino
Loud, upbeat music and rowdy customers make this Cuban-Caribbean hot spot a favorite destination at the otherwise touristy South Street Seaport. Sip a tequila Cabana Sunrise and shake your hips, or sit quietly and watch the boats -- every table has a view. (Pier 17, South Street Seaport, near Fulton Street; 212-406-1155.)

5. The Water Club
The upper deck of this East River ship has become a standard first-date destination. Good wine list, too. (500 East 30th Street, at the East River; 212-683-3333.)

Related:

• Archive: “Top Five”
• Articles by Abby Tegnelia
• Table of Contents: Aug 12, 2002 issue of New York | Subscribe!