One of the few downsides to leaving the East Side was an increase in distance between myself and the Campbell Apartment, one of New York’s finest bars for early-evening drinks dates, martini meetings, and general impressing of others.

Thanks to the investigative efforts of my esteemed Cyan colleague Colin, however, I have, fortunately, discovered an able replacement quite close to home: Single-Room Occupancy, located just two blocks up (on 53rd, slightly East of 9th). Entrance is through a brownstone basement door, largely unmarked save a single green sconce. Ring the buzzer for admittance into the small space, sparsely decorated and lit solely by recessed glowing tiles in the roof and floor. No liquor, just an excellent assortment of imported beers and fine wines, served in tasteful fluted glassware. Sort of neo-minimalist speak-easy chic.