Urban oasis: Sidewalk seating at White Horse Tavern.

Botanica
Hipster lounge with loud music, thrift-store furniture, and artfully messed-up haircuts as far as the eye can see.
• 47 E. Houston St., 212-343-7251

55 Bar
There's never more than a $5 cover at this unpretentious basement jazz gem showcasing new players and new styles.
• 55 Christopher St., 212-929-9883

Corner Bistro
Dirt-cheap beer and some of the best burgers in New York keep this Village landmark consistently packed.
• 331 W. 4th St., 212-242-9502

McSorley's
The undisputed champion of NYC drinking institutions for the frat boy in all of us.
• 15 E. 7th St., 212-334-1390

Rudy's
Hell's Kitchen dive serving dirt-cheap pitchers of house ale ("Rudy's Red") and free hot dogs.
• 627 Ninth Ave., 212-974-9169

Winnie's
This divey Chinatown karaoke bar caters to Mandarin-speakers and hipsters alike.
• 104 Bayard St., 212-732-2384

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