Bamboo 52, New York

Bamboo 52 - A long, narrow space on a semi-desolate block just off the midtown buzz, Bamboo 52 is the perfect weeknight spot for snacking on sushi and sipping half-priced happy hour cocktails. But there’s more to the place than an after-work crowd. The DJ booth, serious sound system and sushi bar’s mini discoball hint at the weekends’ more hopping scene. Along the walls criss-crossed blades of light (think your fifth-grade school photo background, but cooler) add energy to the vibe. And if you penetrate Bamboo’s hallway-like first impression, you’ll find a beautiful and ample patio in the back across from a hidden cozy lounge, perfect for canoodling on slower nights. Towards week’s end disco pumps in and, on occasion, staff and friends break out into runway sashays. On weekends DJs spin anything from house to hip-hop to rock and pop. And by Sunday night a regular crowd is gathering around Bamboo’s two large flatscreens at the bar to watch the “L Word.” We recommend celebrating the more-than-meets-the-eye venue and its ability to draw diverse crowds with a mash-up drink like a Sakejito or Saketini.