Temple Bar, getting naughty down on Lafayette

The location: 332 Lafayette St. The Scene – Once your eyes adjust to the dark, you’ll see why New Yorkers covet Temple’s mysterious charms. For most, it’s love at first sight of the stained wood, black marble and dim deco sconces, which is why fans refuse to have a drink here with just anyone.

Tucked in the shadows, you get the feeling this spot will exist forever. It’s a feeling worth saving for an escapade with real potential. – The Draw, Aside from the elegant atmosphere, the easy piano music and lovely lady legends of jazz murmuring in your ear, there are the strong drinks, a staggering vodka list, lovable bowls of popcorn on the table, and the sigh of relief that somewhere this effortless really exists. The lithe waitresses are in perfect taste and timing.

Without gimmick or theme, here’s a bar for adults that says, “You’ve made it.”

NY Hotspot “Butter”

With its lofted space packed with youthful scenesters and a pumping soundtrack, Butter has the trappings of a nightclub, but the spot also boasts an expert New American kitchen under the direction of Chef Alexandra Guarnaschelli, a Greenmarket devotee.

An extensive wine list and specialty cocktails like puréed-blackberry margaritas further distract from the food, although there’s much to enjoy on the homey and hearty menu; dandelion greens provide a bitter counterpoint to smooth, and sweetened chicken liver crostini; Colorado rack of lamb comes with fresh chili-basil pesto, or a decadent mound of goat cheese and honey, depending on the season.

The dining area is windowless with tables for two clustered in the center, and crescent-shaped booths along the sides. In lieu of a view there’s an illuminated photo of a birch forest in back, an arboreal motif that repeats in the exclusive Birch Room lounge downstairs.

415 Lafayette St., New York

Thanks to Ethan Wolff for the tip