Cocktails & Daydreams - Part 1

Much has been said about what the type of drink a man or woman imbibes says about their personality. Beer guzzling gals come across as "the guy's girl" and willing to kick back. Men who prefer their whiskey neat may have a leg up on their apple martini drinking competition. Heck, a recent social study breaks down personality types based on how you hold your drink.

I have a different theory when it comes to choosing your beverage while on a date. Sure, some daters may rate you based on your preferences, but in my opinion what really counts is where you take your date, and the amount of effort you put into planning that evening out.

You want your companion to be thinking about your great date well into the next day, and sharing his or her excitement with others. By giving them a date to remember, you will not only create a good time, but also ensure that he or she is eagerly awaiting the next time you see one another.

It's important to choose a location that has the right ambiance for the type of evening you're aiming for. Here are some suggestions to help you create the perfect date mood, that leaves a lasting impression.

Snazzy, sophisticated cocktail lounge
In the first part of this series, we'll take a look at some sultry bars made especially for a special occasion date, for when you really want to knock someone's socks off:

Brandy Library- 25 N. Moore, b/w Varick & Hudson
This place is the epitome of swanky. The lights are dim. The walls are lined with volumes of high end cognacs and whiskeys. The bartenders and servers take great pride in helping you select the perfect drink. This lounge is a conversation starter and will make your date rave to his or her friends afterward. (They also offer tasting classes, and complimentary samplings on Sat late afternoons.)

Campbell Apartment- 15 Vanderbilt Ave, attached to Grand Central Terminal

Prepare to sweep your date off of their feet when you whisk them away to this classic old New York venue. Once the former office of John Campbell in the 1920s, it has since been converted into your perfect cozy and glamorous date spot. You will not be disappointed by the decadent cocktail choices and the deep toned decor of this hidden locale. Note that you have to enter through the outside of GCT... after navigating the 2nd floor of the train station for 15 min, I learned that one the hard way.

Also worth mentioning:
The Dove Parlour- Romantic, Victorian feel, this Village lounge's Silk Road Margarita with cinnamon-infused tequila is to die for.
PDT- You have to enter this quasi-speakeasy through a phone booth from the adjacent hot dog shop.

A final note. Here's one more worthy contender, and a particular favorite of mine: Shalel Lounge. This underground UWS bar is cavernous, dark* & romantic. In fact, it's practically known as a make out den, full of nooks and crannies meant for couples. This was confirmed by the Shalel bartender I spoke to earlier tonight, who cheekily told me that part of his job is to regulate "hijinks" among the bar patrons. Sweet. Could serve as a nice place to grab a nightcap at the end (or just the beginning??) of a great date.

*I mean really dark. The pictures above received the benefit of a a serious flash. This place is all about the atmosphere.