A seat (at the bar, or I like places that have high-top tables scattered about) is paramount. I’m fine with anything from convivial to subdued as far as atmosphere goes, as long as it’s not too loud to carry on a conversation. Free/inexpensive bar snacks or a menu of small, sharable things are always good. Drink specials are appreciated but only if they’re good - I would rather pay full price for a decent drink than $5 for a watery well vodka and soda. Also, proximity to transportation is key - it’s hard to get friends to gather when they have to go all the way across town from where they work or live. Midtown (within walking distance of Times Square/Columbus Circle/Grand Central) tends to be ideal but it’s surprisingly difficult to find a place in Midtown that meets all of the other parameters.
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