VIBE

You’ll feel like a true insider if you manage to find this well-hidden lounge tucked inside Japanese restaurant Village Yokocho. This is where discerning cocktail aficionados come to sip some of the city’s most creative drinks (whipped up by an imported Japanese mixologist, if you’re lucky) as they engage in refined chitchat with intimate companions. Jazz on the stereo, comfortably worn leather armchairs, and plenty of space give a refined yet chilled out feel.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It’s casual, but in a mature way–anything from capris and flats to a cute sundress would work here.

GO HERE WITH

A date - for a romantic drink; a good friend - for a long chat; yourself - for people watching

CROWD

It’s a sophisticated, insider crowd. The intimate ambiance and the strict no-groups policy make it a popular spot with couples looking for a romantic tête-à-tête.

WHY WE LIKE IT

We love the private club feel–the hidden entrance, the relaxed grown-up ambiance, and the lack of crowds make us feel like we’re part of an elite team of savvy cocktailistas. And speaking of cocktails…pretty much everything the talented bartenders whip up is lip smacking, but we’re particularly partial to their take on the Grasshopper.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The servers can go beyond brusque when enforcing the strict seating policy (no standing allowed). We appreciate that the rules help keep the great crowd-free ambiance, but we’d like it if they were a bit less gruff. Also, the pile up at the door of those waiting to get in can be a pain, especially on weekends.

GOOD TO KNOW

Unsurprisingly for a hidden lounge, it’s pretty tricky to find–you’ll need to walk through Village Yokocho and then go through an unmarked door to get in. In order to preserve its signature low-key ambiance, Angel’s Share has strict rules (No standing! No raised voices! No groups of more than four people!), and the staff is not shy about enforcing them. Be prepared to be told in no uncertain terms to scram if you don’t comply. (If you want to be sure to get a seat, get there early because reservations aren’t accepted and you might not be allowed to linger at the door until something opens up.) If you’re coming by yourself, try to grab a seat near the windows looking out onto 9th Street–it’s a perfect spot for people watching.

OTHER LOCATIONS

B Flat (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Pegu Club (New York); Little Branch (New York); Milk & Honey (New York); Glen (Beijing)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.