Down By The Hipster

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2009-08-03T11:09:00.001-04:00

DSC_0004, originally uploaded by raaaaarrrggghhh.

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Hello DownByTheHipster.com

2008-06-02T21:32:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone. Great news! This is going to be our final post on blogger. After 551 posts, we have finally figured out this intertube thing and have moved over to our own domain. Goodbye blogspot, and hello DownByTheHipster.com! We ask that you please reset your rss feeds and bookmarks and continue to visit us on a daily basis for the most up to date news on New York City nightlife and hospitality.

Good on ya!

Rebranding the Chelsea Pub and Hotel

2008-06-02T10:55:00.004-04:00

What happens when a big, fancy developer opens a new hotel down the street from you and has the audacity to steal your name? That's the predicament that the Chelsea Pub and Hotel found itself in when the casino-less resort was dubbed the Chelsea Hotel. So the original Chelsea Hotel hired themselves Hotel Internet Strategies to rebrand themselves, lest anyone be confused. HIS has suceeded and let us know about it, saying "just wanted to inform you that The Chelsea Pub and Hotel is now the Chelsea Pub and Inn". Genius! Please note this down so you don't get confused making reservations this summer.

The Smokeless Nights

2008-06-02T08:24:00.004-04:00

You can put up all the signs you want. Drinkers still love to smoke, and they love to do both at the same time. So despite the smoking ban that Mayor Mike passed in 2002, some places still turn the other cheek when their patrons light up. But can the state use a tax increase to do what the City couldn't? We are about to find out, because "on Tuesday, the state tax on cigarettes will rise by $1.25 a pack — to $2.75 from $1.50 — driving up the cost of a typical pack in New York City to around $8.50." That is also the cost of one Manhattan beer (when you factor in tip). You have to think that while the die hards and casual smokers will smoke no matter what, this may help some in the middle decrease their habit, and that may just make your favorite nightlife spots even that less smoky. Gratzi NY State.

· $8.50 A Pack! Why Not Quit? [City Room]

[Photo Credit]

Economy Ruining Summer Party Season

2008-05-30T13:01:00.003-04:00

Is the woeful economy going to ruin the Summer of 2008? It just may if there are more people like our Little Birdy and their group of friends who have cancelled plans to head to the Hamptons to hit the hot spots, saying it "seems many of my friends from last year aborted attending [Hamptons] for financial reasons....can't blame em given the state of the economy". We feel your pain, but would reccomend selling some clothes on consignment or plasma to raise the money to hit up Lily Pond. We want to see some NYC hustle.

Pros and Cons of subMercer

2008-05-30T09:44:00.005-04:00

Our first few trips back to the recently re-opened subMercer have been pretty positive. Division Street, a seemingly brand new brahg, has also gone and has come up with a handy list of pros and cons, which we would love to share with you.

Pros of Submercer:
* No reception = no drunk dialing/texting. Saving us all from sending this text: "out at submrcer, but woud rather be with u”…to more people than we’d like to admit.
* "You called me? Are you sure? I was at submercer, the reception there sucks. Sorry. Maybe we’ll hang out next weekend!?"
* Bomb scare? I know where I’ll be.

Cons of Submercer:

* No one can really meet you there on a whim. It has to be planned and finalized before going under. Like marriage.
* Rolling out around 3:19am and receiving these 3 messages from New Crush:

“Hey” 12:58am

“Still want to hang out? Would love to see you!” 1:39am

“Ok. I guess you’re not into it. Call me never.” 3:18am

Curses! You were THISCLOSE to sealing the deal…
* The ceilings are about 3 inches lower than Beatrice. Which is officially too low. Models: get ready to put “the slouch” to use.

The verdict: Great for parties, nice change of scenery, and by the time you make 5 lefts and 3 rights and another left before getting in, you'll feel like James Bond.

Cheeky Division Street. We'll be watching you.

[Photo by Phillip Angert]

Donald Trump Serves Up a Margaritaville

2008-05-29T17:05:00.005-04:00

Donald Trump is the greatest real estate developer and casino operator in the entire world. Hell, he is the greatest person ever. Fact. So what happens when the Trumpster built his fabulous Trump Marina Hotel Casino in fabulous Atlantic City. Well, not so much. Apparently, King Donald has sold the property to Coastal Marina LLC, an affiliate of Coastal Development LLC, for the bargain basement price of $316 million. But here is the kicker - they are turning it into a Margaritaville! As in Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, the biggest kick in the groin a resort town trying to re brand itself could ask for. And as our Little Birdy points out, "they're trying to market that chelsea hotel there as the AC hipster property, right? but any hipster worth his salt (heh!) would choose to go to margaritaville for purposes of irony." 100% correct. Stay classy Atlantic City.

· Trump Marina sells for $316M, turns into Margaritaville [Crains]

Ins't or Ous't: Antik

2008-05-29T11:27:00.000-04:00

Name: Antik
Address: 356 Bowery, NYC
Statu: Ous't

Don't tell us you're shocked. While this place seems to consistently attract a crowd, it's Antik's operation that has branded it officially Ou'st. We aren't sure what ad wizards decided to open a lounge without a bar, but it is one of the worst concepts we have ever seen. Because of the weird operation, most people make a bee line for the basement bar King's Cross, which when we went was staffed by one bartender, totally overwhelmed by a normal size crowd attempting to order drinks in a room that had no air conditioning. Impossible. So it's back back upstairs to Antik, only to remember that there is no easy way to order drinks there. So in that situation, what else can you do but leave without ordering anything?

To add insult to Antikury, a Little Birdy lets us know that he was threatened by the Antik doorman 45 feet from the entrance, saying "I walked out Antik because it was so terrible, and the doorman was busy talking to girls rather than manning the rope. I just walked around it and he told me that I have to wait for him to let me out. I told him that he should relax, and he started yelling at me for no reason. After walking down the street, the guy wouldn't shut up, and wound up running after me to get in my face, threatening me. What kind of bullshit are they running? Place is a joke"

Customers that can't get a drink, no air conditioning, and door men that threaten people is a losing combination. Antik is officially Ous't.

The End of LeNell's?

2008-05-29T10:07:00.004-04:00

Some sad news to report. Racked has learned that LeNell's, perhaps the finest liquor store in New York and a Red Hook staple if there ever was one, has lost their lease and may have no where to go. According to Tanya "LeNell" Smothers herself:

Our lease is officially up this month. I know it will take months for a formal eviction should it come to that. Sad to say that the space that we had a draft lease for fell through this week.

Tragedy. There seems to be no other options in the area, and no other part of Brooklyn will suffice. The only possible rainbow in this vast real estate storm is that LeNell's may be willing to consider Manhattan if no Red Hook space materializes.

Mondrian NYC Sets Its Plans

2008-05-29T08:15:00.000-04:00

The still under construction Mondrian on South Lafayette still hasn't locked down an opening date as of yet, but that doesn't mean the folks at Morgans aren't busy little hoteliers. We have heard that they are close to locking down a deal with a restaurateur for the hospitality space. Most importantly, a Little Birdy tells us Morgans is working with "a great creative mind on a new lounge concept." Too bad it's not DBTH. Wouldn't that be something. As always, we will keep you posted

Sex and the City Premiere Eats Bunny Chow

2008-05-28T16:02:00.003-04:00

Didn't get into the Sex and the City premiere last night? Don't cry - you are probably better off. No need to fret, because Bunny Chow has the next best thing, a SATC shindig featuring a cocktail reception from 10-12! Oooh, cocktails! That's what Carrie drinks. Ooooh.

Serious Singles Get Ready For Loving

2008-05-28T12:08:00.000-04:00

Are you lonely? Do you love WNYC? Hallelujah, your prayers have been answered. WNYC is hosting a series of singles events throughout the summer and you are all invited! The first one is June 18 at the Chelsea Museum and is geared for the LGBT community, and is described as

There’s an art to meeting the right person, so head over to The Chelsea Museum. Mix, mingle and have a glass of wine with other WNYC listeners at the second annual LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) Singles Event. Richard Hake, Local host of The Takeaway, emcees the evening. Complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres included.

Hate to break it to the organizers, but that sounds like everyone's cup of tea. This is the first of four planned mixers, so hopefully there will be one catered to you.

Randolph Switcheroo

2008-05-28T07:40:00.000-04:00

There is more than just basement work going on at the Randolph. A recent stop at the Broome Street bar reveals that the space has been rearranged. Gone are the banquettes that previously lined the wall, and in are several smaller booths that create a more intimate space to enjoy the expanded cocktail list. And also the Hunt parties every Thursday night. Hurry on down to say hello.

Surf Lodge a Smashing Success

2008-05-27T15:01:00.003-04:00

A lot haters tried to throw cold water on the opening weekend of the Surf Lodge, the rehabbed waterfront property in Montauk. But it seems that the opening weekend couldn't have gone any smoother. According to a Surf Lodge insider:

It was so crowded. I don't think montauk has seen so many people before. All elements of the property (the hotel, the deck, the bar, the restaurant) were running at full capacity. The on-site Tracy Feith boutique opens this week. There were many locals, industry types, and celebs in attendance. Many for multiple nights in row. And everybody was raving about Sam talbot's food.

What everybody needs to realize is that this is not a nightclub and to not compare it to those other places. Its a chill spot, open seven days a week. If someone's first thought is "Montauk?" Then its probably not for them.

These pictures sure look like they are telling the truth. Check out that sky behind Julian Marley! Like co-owner Jayma Cardosa said, Montauk is just a bit different, and they don't expect a Dune type scene. Different strokes for different folks. Early congratulations all around.

[Photo Credit]

Living It Up at Lily Pond

2008-05-27T11:29:00.003-04:00

We sent our most trusted correspondent Nicolette from Nicolette and the City out east for the weekend to have a little looksee at some Hamptons night spots. On Saturday night, she checked out Lily Pond and lived to tell the details.

Summer 2008 started off with a wild Saturday night at Lilly Pond. We arrived at 11 and the valet was already full, with a crowd of at least 60 people trying to argue their way into the club. After finally finding parking on some side street, I walked along the side of the road in four inch heels back to the club. When we arrived, there were now about 100 people trying to fight their way in. Great. It was chaotic but about twenty minutes later we finally made it in with a little help from Kristian Laliberte, one of my hosts for the evening.

Once we got in we headed over to the Unruly Heir table, where UH creator Joey Goodwin and Kristian were holding court. They were there celebrating an event they held earlier in the day at Blue and Cream in East Hampton. Hanging next to their table was Whitney from The Hills and there was also a special performance by Estelle (unfortunately sans Kanye West), followed by DJ Berrie, who played mostly house with some random mixes of rock. The place was pretty small and insanely crowded; there were white and navy striped couches that served as bottle service areas in the middle of the “dance floor.” There were also banquettes along the side of the wall that served as posts for bottle service. There was an elevated stage at the back end of the club which had a few tables (ours and Whitney Port’s), which doubled as the stage and DJ booth.

The crowd was all twenty something’s that consisted of trendy Manhattan goers, a few socialites and models – think Tenjune on a Tuesday night except with all house music. There was one bar at the entrance of the club, which was impossible to get to and it took about twenty minutes to get a drink. Bottle service was a little slow here – they could use a little bit more staff, but I forgave them since it was Memorial Day Weekend. By 2:00 a.m. everyone was more than intoxicated and the place started to clear out. Overall, Lilly Pond went beyond my expectations. I didn’t expect this place to be anything great and I didn’t think anyone would show up – let alone Whitney Port (although she isn’t quite A-list) or a performance by Estelle. The party had everything you wanted - great music, booze, hot people, a few “celebrity” sightings and it wasn’t that far from their competition down in Southampton (on the way back we were by Pink Elephant 12 minutes after leaving Lilly Pond). I will definitely be going back.

More Monday Madness

2008-05-27T09:47:00.005-04:00

The Page gets in on the Monday Night debate, detailing the feux fued between Butter and Bar Martignetti's Monday night parties. The Sixers state:

Bar Martignetti on Broome Street, which takes a dig at how celebrity-infested Butter's bashes are, hosted its first one last week. "Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, but after five years it is clear that everyone prefers the real thing. All Butter alternative products should remain on the shelf," quipped Akiva. Bar Martignetti owner Anthony Martignetti replied with, "Our party is a lot more fun."

Maybe they can settle this with a butter fight - where they all lather each other with butter and fake butter and wrestle on Lafayette. Who wouldn't watch that?

The Average Cost of a Table

2008-05-27T08:22:00.000-04:00

As you and your share house friends prepare for your big weekend night out, we suggest your first check your bank accounts before you agree to go in for a table at one of Suffolk county's summer hot spots. And why is that? Because a table is going to cost you. According to a Little Birdy, "Hamptons folks seem to have colluded to all charge $2k a table at Lily Pond, Pink and Dune....and they're going fast as per a host friend of mine." Of course they are going fast, since people want to lock in at this low price before the summer gang of 3 jacks it to $2500. But imagine how cool you will feel when all of those other losers have to stand all night watching you and your friends sitting at your table. Now you see.

Photo Credit

SUMMER!

2008-05-23T06:53:00.002-04:00

It's officially Memorial Day Weekend - the start of summer. We are off to the beach (or somewhere similar) and will see you all Tuesday. And for the record, we chose None of the Above.

Marquee and the Mortgage Crisis

2008-05-22T11:40:00.002-04:00

Glen Pizzolorusso became a mortgage banker straight out of college, right when the housing market was exploding with ARM's and sub prime loans that were making many people temporarily rich. So how did he spend his money? By balling in New York City of course. In this clip, we hear Glen's heartwarming tale of living the high life, spending nights dropping thousands of dollars at Marquee with his friends.

Now we bet you are wondering - what does all of this really have to do with nightlife? Well, everything. You see, people like Glen fell ass backwards into jobs that paid him close to $75k a month for a job that any monkey could do. And when the monkey got paid, he decided to throw it around in nightclubs, which helped make others very rich. And now that monkey money is gone - but the successful clubs have paid a price. Some have seen declining business, others have dealt with rising rents they can't afford to pay anymore. Just proves that this credit crisis has an impact everywhere, in ways many haven't imagined.

Clip courtesy of This American Life.

Love For the Surf Lodge

2008-05-22T08:25:00.005-04:00

While the voting is still going on, one new Hamptons spot that didn't make it to the poll is the Surf Lodge in Montauk. The refurbished hotel and restaurant space is a late entry to the game, but whispers from all around are leading many to believe that this could be the place of 2008. And with the all star Cain team, Kamali, and Sam Talbot all lined up behind it, you'd be a fool to bet against them. Just yesterday, Jayma Cardosa let us know her thoughts, saying

I have and will always love entertaining and sharing the joys of life with my friends. One of my secret joys has been my summer retreats to Montauk. It is here that I've found moments of great happiness, peace and enjoyed the simplicity of beach life. It is also in Montauk that I will realize one of my life time dreams of owning a hotel. I hope to see you this summer in a beach town that I hold doubly dear to my heart.

She sure knows how to sell it. So maybe, just maybe, it's location in Montauk is a benefit, making sure those who go the extra mile will be justly rewarded. Only time will tell, but our money is on the Surf Lodge.

On the Circuit: Letter From Cannes

2008-05-21T16:37:00.006-04:00

So, we decided to entrust a Little Birdy to be our on the scene eyes and ears at this year's Cannes Film Festival. Big mistake. We wound up not hearing from them for days, until finally we heard from them this afternoon. So Little Birdy, what do you have to say for yourself?

So, I just got back from the Jade Jagger Belvedere Dagger Party. It was a lot better than it sounds. Jade Jagger, P. Diddy, Ed Norton, Goldie Hawn, Kelly Brook, Billy Zane, Mike Tyson, Vikram Chatwal and me partying at club VIP. Belvedere all over the place. It was raining but the turnout was still pretty incredible. One of the production people told me over 2000 showed up. Funniest part was Diddy (what is he doing in Cannes?) showing up with an entourage of 30 people, scooping up as many Belvedere drinks that he could get his hands on. Isn't he the face of Ciroc? Good thing they pay him all that money. Anyway, Marc Ronson was the DJ, music was awesome, and this whole week has been awesome. Sorry to not check in sooner but I am too busy living the life.

You know what Birdy? If we paid you any money we would have to fire you. But we don't so we love you. Stay dry and try to check in more often.

Getting to Know Matt Abramcyk

2008-05-21T13:56:00.003-04:00

Matt Abramcyk sits down for a little one on one time with the Observer to talk Beatrice, Chelsea and everything else, and boldly states the Beatrice Inn has "become one of the best places in the world of all time". You've got to love the moxy on this one. Plus, the author got some quotes from a familiar face, so please give it a read.

· Baron of Beatrice Inn Branches Out [Observer]

Paging La Playa

2008-05-21T08:34:00.001-04:00

Our good Tim from the Pink Elephant checks in to clarify the PE crew's summer plans, saying "Pink Elephant will be operating as usual at Capri Hotel. The Tavern space will be now called La Playa. Same owners but unaffiliated with Pink Elephant. Two separate nightclubs with 2 different crowds. Hope this clears up PE’s role out East this summer. Pink @ Capri will be in full effect. Expect to see big things." Well, that's Capri apparently without the outdoor space, but still Capri. This makes our super DBTH Poll a little less accurate, but just a little.

Dark Room Drama

2008-05-20T13:32:00.002-04:00

IMG_1633, originally uploaded by R. K..

We thank our hated enemies at Eater for sending a trusty intern to sit through the Community Board 3 Economic Development Committee meeting last night, where Dark Room's liquor license renewal permit was denied! According to Eater:

The committee rejected Ludlow Street's Darkroom for a liquor license renewal. They cited several infractions including noise complaints a few counts of selling booze to minors. The bar will have to plead its case with the full board later this month.

Underage drinking? In the Lower East Side? No! Maybe we need to bring back prohibition! We predict that they will make their case to some sympathetic Board members and the license will be renewed at the full meeting. What else would go into that basement space besides a bar? It may as well be Dark Room.

DBTH Poll: Hamptons 2008

2008-05-20T08:15:00.004-04:00

OK Birdys - In honor of the start of the 2008 summer season, we bring you the next installment in our DBTH Poll series. What will be the hottest spot in the Hamptons this season? Answer now and answer often, because the world is watching. Oh yes, the world is watching.

SLA Disses Death & Co, Keeps Le Suck Alive

2008-05-19T15:58:00.004-04:00

In a case of what the hell were they thinking, the Observer has news of two embattled East Village establishments, Death & Co. and Le Souk, who are both battling the fickle SLA. Amazingly, Death & Co. have not swayed the SLA to re-instate their license, while Le Souk has managed to hold onto theirs for another week. Exsqueeze us? Something about this is just off.

While we have had our issues with Death & Co with small operational items, overall we find it to be a rather well run cocktail den. Le Souk is another beast, with underage crowds, loud music, fights and a general garbage atmostphere. To sum up, the SLA should desire establishments like Death & Co. But since they are the SLA, they do all they can to run them out while Le Souk manages to remain open. No wonder the Governor needed some adult fun, he worked for NY State!

Dune Fridays Kicks Off

2008-05-19T15:02:00.003-04:00

Dune kicks off its 2008 season with a big Friday night bash. How big? Well they busted their ad budget with a low budget, mind-numbing flash movie. Just means more profit from those $1500 bottles of Henny.

FDNY Hits the Beatrice Inn - Again!

2008-05-19T10:45:00.003-04:00

What's the FDNY's favorite bar in New York City? Why, the Beatrice Inn of course! If it wasn't then why would they spend so much time there? A Little Birdy was there Friday night when New York's bravest stopped by yet again, and apparently this was more than just the old in and out. "They came on Friday night when it wasn't crowded at all and were there for a long time, checking the sprinklers and floorplans," our Little Birdy tells us. That's not a fun way to spend a Friday. Until this blows over, we expect the City's tightest door to be even tighter. A slow Memorial Day weekend might just be what the Beatrice's doctor ordered.

Lily Pond is for Music Lovers

2008-05-19T09:13:00.001-04:00

Memorial Day week! Holy holy holy! Everyone is so excited. Especially one reader who can't wait for Mike Satsky's Lily Pond to open, breathlessly writing that the former Resort's space, "will involve a great A list crowd. With Jonathan Cheban heading the publicity this venue will be on fire. Frequented by socialites and major celebrities each table will be a sight to see. One of the most amazing parts of lilly pond will be the music. Their DJ roster consists of such names as DJ AM, Steve Aoki, DJ Berrie and many many more." Sounds awesome! We may just run and get on the Jitney right effing now. Uh oh - are we allowed to say that? It could be considered trade secrets or something.

[Photo Credit]

Wildwood Welcomes the Kid

2008-05-16T15:06:00.004-04:00

One of our most trusted Little Birdies was on the scene last night at Wildwood, the new BBQ restaurant from B.R. Guest on Park Avenue South. The occasion? A Kid Rock post show after party. They filed this report:

Good crowd. Some SMOKING hot girls. Free BBQ ribs, which were excellent. Open bar - Coors (sponsor), Plymouth Gin, Jim Beam. Everyone was chilling basically just waiting for Kid Rock to show up, which he eventually did at about 1:45 with a bottle of Beam and a cigar in hand. Not a bad way to make an entrance. The food and festivities went until 4 AM I'm having a rough one today.

Late night BBQ and Beam sounds like an OK way to spend a Thursday night, even if you wind up paying for it on Friday. Kid sure looks happy up there. And it just proves that New York still loves the hours between 2-4.

LCD Soundsystem Sneak Show

2008-05-16T13:43:00.002-04:00

A Little Birdy tells us that LCD Soundsystem is playing a secret show tonight at Webster Hall, just a few nights after throwing down at Studio B, the place with some pretty decent looking females. Go over there now and try and sneak in if you want to see the show.

Thompson Lower East Side Sets a Date

2008-05-16T08:15:00.004-04:00

At long last, the shiny black monolith rising high over the Lower East Side is ready to open its doors. Well, almost. After several years, the Thompson Lower East Side is finally accepting reservations starting July 15. A standard room will run you $399 a night while the King Studio Suite will only cost you $40 more. So what do you get for all that cheddar?

Our studio suites have been designed with an industrial loft-like feel and feature a King bed with 400 thread count custom SFERRA linens and a spacious living room. Light box headboards feature Lee Friedlander photography. Bathrooms feature oversized terry robes and amenities by Fresh. Entertainment options include flat screen TVs with movies on demand and i-Pod docking stations. Each room also offers complimentary WiFi and minibars stocked with Dean and Deluca and Elia Zabar gourmet snacks.

How LES! How New York! How Thompson. So set your calendars for mid July and hope that there are no final delays that push it back to August.

Making Us Laugh

2008-05-15T13:00:00.002-04:00

From the fun little Tumblr site Things You Can't Do Coked Up, a little nod to those who dabble while enjoying the NYC night.

USE THE BATHROOM ALONE

Ha.

Movida Movin to Vegas

2008-05-15T08:26:00.003-04:00

Sammy Sass may no longer (or never been) involved with Noah and Jason's upcoming Lavo restaurant and nightclub at the Palazzo, but our LB was correct in Sammy's interest in Vegas. We just got word that Sass will be opening a branch of his London club Movida in the Palazzo. This follows the current Vegas strategy of trying to lure big spenders from Europe as the American economy hits the shitter. Especially with the slowdown in tourism and spending in Vegas. We always say the more the merrier, but Lavo and Movida going head-to-head? This should be interesting.

On The Circuit: Nicolette Rocks With Ronson

2008-05-14T13:38:00.000-04:00

There are just so many events going on right now, we can't possibly hit them all. Luckily, we have our #1 correspondent Nicolette from Nicolette and the City there to pick up the slack.Last night I went to the Charlotte Ronson and Chrissie Miller “Summer Lovin” event at Blue & Cream. I showed up fashionably late with my cousin James at 7:00 p.m. (the event started at 6). We walked in and the doorman (same guy from Antik) said the ice cream was outside (served from two Mister Softee trucks) and the vodka was inside.

We headed on over to the open bar and we had a choice between sponsored Svedka vodka with pineapple, orange juice, or a pink concoction mixed with lemon juice, vodka, and pink lemonade. I chose the pink concoction and yes I chose it because it was pink. But hey Vodka is Vodka.

After grabbing our drinks we started to socialize. I ran into the designer of the night, Charlotte Ronson. After chatting it up with Charlotte I then ran into the Unruly Heir crew (who I met at the Unruly Heir event at Bloomingdales last week). I spent some time socializing with Kristian Laliberte and Unruly Heir creator Joe Goodwin.

After a few photo ops we headed outside. I had vanilla ice cream with rainbow sprinkles ( wow did I feel 12 again) from the Mister Softee truck while James chose Vanilla ice cream with chocolate sprinkles. We sat on the yellow ottomans outside, enjoyed our ice cream, and headed back inside for a few more drinks, some socializing and surprisingly some shopping?!? James ended up buying two shirts from Blue & Cream. By eight I decided to call it a night and headed home. It was a fun laid back night, in the nice spring weather eating ice cream and drinking vodka. Could you ask for more?

Santos' House Party Party

2008-05-14T10:08:00.004-04:00

The downstairs of Santos' House Party soft-opened last night after 3 years of construction. According to NY Mag, the too small space is "a godsend for anyone who has ever danced in the basement of 205 thinking the experience could benefit from a little more space and a much sicker sound system." Lovely. The upstairs part will be opening soon.

· Santos House Party Actually Houses a Party [Grub Street]

Cain Southern Plans On Hold

2008-05-14T09:17:00.000-04:00

Jamie, Jayma and the rest of the Cain gang have long planned to escape their first home in Chelsea and set up shop somewhere else. After several false starts, they had apparently settled on an alley space at 408 Broadway. Uh, not so fast. After pulling their liquor license application from the last CB 1 meeting, a Little Birdy tells us that unfortunately, the plans may have to be scrapped completely. The Community Board is dead set against Cain, or any re-imagination of it, opening in their ritzy hood. Alley or no alley, lower Broadway or wherever. The Cain crew has not given up hope of pulling something off here, but it's just not looking to good.

DBTH Is Looking for Help

2008-05-13T21:07:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone. DBTH is looking for some summer help, specifically people who :

· Spend Weekends in the Hamptons
· New Yorkers on the go
· Aspiring Photographers
· Just about anyone else

Everyone except Ben Leventhal and the former owners of Stereo are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants should include their resumes in an email (attachments will not be opened) and a few sentences about why you are interested. If you have a blog, links are welcome.

Pay is non-existent, glory is limitless, and the fun is capped at 3%.

Why We Removed the Stereo Related Posts

2008-05-13T19:56:00.000-04:00

Unless you want to travel down the way back machine, you are probably going to have some trouble finding our earlier posts related to the Satsky, Gefter, Mullineaux and Cantor. Why? After receiving some worthless cease and desist orders from some attorneys, we decided to take them down. While we are positive that nothing we posted would ever proven to be libelous, it really isn't worth our time or effort to worry about dealing with half ass accusations.

After all we are only talking about the people that owned and operated Stereo, a little club that had a pretty good run for a few years, but is hardly missed by the nightlife loving public. There have been a thousand clubs that have had runs that were as good or better. These guys just had a pretty ugly falling out, and instead of chalking it up to lessons learned or a bad business deal, they decided to send nasty emails to us to try and settle their differences.

All in all, pretty lame. We are actually glad the lawyers stepped in to remove us from this "Battle of the Pansies". If this doesn't work, maybe we can all meet at Houstons and settle this once and for all.

On the Circuit: Time Out Makes The Kids Horny

2008-05-13T16:44:00.003-04:00

We couldn't attend the Time Out Horny Party last night, so we asked a TONY insider to fill in the gaps. Apparently, the attendees were filling in more than that. Let's go to the correspondent . . .

The last time we played Spin the Bottle was tenth grade in our friend Steve’s basement, but that’s neither here nor there.

Last night we got down, drunk and dirty with Time Out New York at their Horny Party to celebrate their annual hormone (and nudity) filled issue. The Pinetree Lodge was brimming with sexually charged 20-somethings playing Truth or Dare and Never Have I Ever. Uh, never have I ever been so excited to see a burlesque dancer strip on a bar in Murray Hill.

The night dissolved into a gigantic game of Spin the Bottle. Guy and girl, girl on girl, guy on guy on girl on guy on Time Out New York staff member on bartender on bouncer. Us exhibitionists found ourselves making out in the back room while the voyeurs touched them selves at the bar.

And just like tenth grade, we went home agonizingly heated up, in need of a cold shower, and with a magazine full of naked people wedged in our messenger bag.

Sounds hot and steamy. Maybe next year we can attend.

Randolph Expanding?

2008-05-13T08:13:00.003-04:00

The Randolph is a deceptively excellent little bar on the edges of Nolita. And according to a Little Birdy, it may be getting a little bigger. Our LB tells us that the owners are looking to expand the basement space a little bit to create a nicer lower level experience. We would be all for it, since it is a bit basement-esque down there, and it would give the City just a bit more space in which to enjoy a full pitcher of Manhattans. And what American can be against that?

McNally Not Buying Beatrice

2008-05-12T15:46:00.003-04:00

Radar Online "broke" a story today that Keith McNally was looking to buy DBTH favorite the Beatrice Inn. Thankfully, Eater put the kaibosh on this rumor, with McNally telling them "I've barely heard of this place, let alone considered buying it! An absolute NO to the rumor, but I'm flattered (if that's the word) that I should be someone reckoned to be in the running." This one should have never gotten off the ground, since the space simply lacks the capacity to do enough business to justify McNally's time. We feel dirty doing a post on it, but it is our business.

The Picnic Club Curses NYC

2008-05-12T08:03:00.000-04:00

Even though we love warm weather and picnics, we may have to officially come out against the Picnic Club. As we geared up for a weekend of warm wether, the Picnic Clubbers announced a planned event this Sunday. Right as rain, as the weekend approach, the weather report turned anything but suite, with meteorologists saying it looked like rain. So Allison and Michael have to cancel once again. Maybe, for the sake of all of us, the Picnic Club should just quietly go about their business without publicizing their first event. Let that one go off without a hitch and that we can all get back to picnic business. We can't stand the rain.

BREAKING: Home and Guesthouse Closed

2008-05-10T10:23:00.004-04:00

From the weekend desk of DBTH, a Little Birdy sent us (and everyone else thank you very much) this quick note, "Both home and guesthouse are closed until further notice". Oh the humanity. Will NYC nightlife ever recover from this low blow to our souls? Will New Jersey and Strong Island keep their flags at half mast for the rest of the weekend? Will Steve Lewis get to redesign the clubs when they are taken over by another operator. It's way too early in the grieving process to answer these questions. You can tell the Guesthouse patrons above are wondering the same thing. Consider this developing.

UPDATE #1: When we asked our LB why the club was shut down, we were told it was the cops. Apparently they were cited for underage drinking and drugs. Maybe we should hang out there more often.

UPDATE #2: A mysterious go between drops a note to us, saying "Hi I'm sitting with Steve Lewis who just got a call and says..."home and guesthouse will be open tonight!" We are honored and wish to thank both you and Msr. Lewis. Go get em Guesthouse.

Beatrice Inn Shut Down Again

2008-05-09T10:24:00.005-04:00

Straight from the beak of a Little Birdy who was on the scene, we get word that the Betarice Inn was visited by the cops again last night. Take it away LB:

I was at the Beatrice Inn last night and something was going down. Around 2 they stopped playing music and the dance floor cleared out. When I left a little while later, there were cop cars outside and the doorman was talking three cops. Maybe they got busted for not having a cabaret license again?

Except for running Manhattan's coolest bar, running the hospitality operations at a new Atlantic City resort, celebrity friends and possibly opening new bars on both coasts, these Beatrice Inn guys can't catch a break. We aren't sure why the cops continue this monthly game of saying hello late at night, unless they really want to see MK. And let's be honest, who doesn't? But the Angelo and the crew do a good job of keeping the street clear and we have seen the neighbors drinking at the bar. Just leave Beatrice alone!

Lavo is Hiring!

2008-05-09T08:24:00.003-04:00

Got the New York City recession blues? Get your resume ready and call Uhaul, because Lavo, Las Vegas's next great restaurant and night club is now hiring!

Finally….you’ve waited long enough

From the creators of TAO Asian Bistro and Nightclub
Still….the sexiest temple in Las Vegas

LAVO

Restaurant and Nightclub is now accepting applications for the following positions:

Maitre’D
Restaurant Managers
Assistant Restaurant Managers
Nightclub Managers
Assistant Nightclub Managers
Sous Chef’s
Purchasing Agent

Their other operation, Tao, is the most successful restaurant in the country. Getting a job here will probably lead to some pretty good scratch. Just something to consider a you slog through another week in the meat grinder.

Miami Is Not So Pure

2008-05-08T12:17:00.003-04:00

Based on their recent IRS troubles, PURE has had to rethink their pending expansion plans. How so? Well, according to our Little Beach Birdy in Miami, "PURE has killed their plans to open in South Beach. Their IRS problems has made it impossible to go through with the deal." So their planned Fountainbleau Hotel location will not happen. And that's why you never decide to skimp on your taxes. Allegedly.

Sub Mercer Books Up

2008-05-08T10:06:00.004-04:00

We stopped by SubMercer for a repeat visit over the weekend and had a chance to scope their revamped cocktail menu, featuring the Tequila Mockingbird, a literary take on a the traditional margarita. Featuring maraschino liqueur, grapefruit and lime juice, it's the perfect tequila cocktail to keep you refreshed when drinking in a sub basement during the summer - if Stefan ever lets you in.

Now Meet Guest of a Guest. Really This Time.

2008-05-07T14:49:00.006-04:00

Building up a mysterious internet identity is something we know a bit about. So did Guest of a Guest, until today. That's her up there wearing the vest and hanging out with pumpkins. Looks just like we said she did. She's our buddy, and now she wants to be yours too. Meet her everyone, and then Facebook her, and then call her, and write to her, and do everything because Rachelle is the [cough] force [cough] behind GoaG, and apparently she has some big plans and stuff and wants you to read all about it as she sits down with her Uncle Steve to chat. We're going to go call our Auntie Clara to talk about it.

Studio B Roof Makes People Angry

2008-05-07T13:15:00.004-04:00

Studio B (which we all know has some hot ladies) recently opened a rooftop lounge, even though they apparently never had permission. New York Shitty has a real problem with this, stating:

Let’s imagine for a moment that I, a citizen, invited 140+ of my best friends to party on my rooftop (and I have a nice one, btw). Someone would call the cops and I’d be cited and/or thrown in jail.

In other words, it’s a matter of inequality. Studio B, despite having no permission to host events on their roof does so anyway.

It doesn't seem fair, but the party does indeed soldier on.

La Esquina Making Its Miami Move

2008-05-07T09:03:00.004-04:00

Another tidbit of information that bubbled to the surface during the Cordell Lochin legal tizzy was Serge Becker had plans to open a second La Esquina in Miami. So exciting. Well, DBTH has learned a bit more intel on the project, and it's shaping up to be a doozy. The word from South Beach is that Becker and his posse have signed a deal to open La Esquina in the soon to open Mondrian South Beach Hotel and Residences, and that Becker will operate not only a La Esquina lobby restaurant but also a roof top bar. Good deal for Becker, but will taking a restaurant that is known more for its basement than its food to the land of Latin cuisine be a success? Will it diminish the strong La Esquina brand here in New York City? Only time will tell, but as one wise operator told us, "your brand is your brand it's best not to fuck with it." Indeed.

[PhotoCredit]

Don't You Wanna Dance?

2008-05-06T12:32:00.008-04:00

After learning that you really can't dance at the Beatrice Inn, Grub Street snared a copy of the 2008 list of Manhattan establishments currently operating with the coveted cabaret licenses. Who has ever heard of these places? At least Sway, one of the tiniest dance areas in the City, has one. The full list is below.

Globorati Relaunch

2008-05-06T09:49:00.001-04:00

We wanted to give a quick shout out to our friends Michael and Mark at Globorati, the go to resource for high end, non tourist travel intel. The site just went through a little redesign and we are more than a little jealous. One post a day, and it's alway outstanding stuff. Do check them out. You go Globorati.

Ian Schrager's Next NYC Project

2008-05-05T12:18:00.000-04:00

Above, please find a gorgeous parking lot located on the corner of West 19th Street and 10th Avenue. Glorious, right? Really reminds you of colonial times. Anyway, what is now a parking lot is soon to be a new hotel project from the genius that is Ian Schrager. It's a bit of old news, but Schrager's plans to open a "combination of high-end hotels and less expensive hotels" on this site by 2009 seems doubtful. You know, credit crunch and all. But at least we all still get to use that parking lot, and then one day, people paying a lot of money and people paying a bit less will all get to stay right next to each other.

· An Interview With Ian Schrager [Portfolio]

Bowery Electric Raided

2008-05-05T12:05:00.005-04:00

Well, that didn't take long. According to Eater, Bowery Electric was raided early Saturday morning, just 5 weeks after opening. No word if the bar was shut for the rest of the weekend.

UPDATE: From a Little Birdy - "Just wanted to let you know Bowery Electric was open Saturday night." Problem solved.

Photo Credit

The Rules of the Beatrice Inn

2008-05-05T09:01:00.000-04:00

It's not just lewd behavior and illicit drugs that are banned at the Beatrice Inn - it's dancing and smoking too. Are you listening MK? That means you!

Flyer Follies: Two Thousand Eighties Returns!

2008-05-02T15:01:00.002-04:00

After having their last party busted up by the cops before it ever got started, Two Thousand 80's returns to throw it down tonight at Blvd. And this time, they are armed with Talib Kweli. Ho! And according to the invite, "And because we want this to be extra crazy, everyone is F-R-E-E til midnight when you rsvp to hypelist@gmail.com. For those who RSVP'd for the Feb 29th bash, you're F-R-E-E all night." Go get em crazies.

Hallelujah! Upstairs Reopens

2008-05-02T14:37:00.004-04:00

Drum roll please! According to a source at Upstairs, despite thenoisy stereo scandal, the amazing club is back open! According to our Little Birdy:

We are open for business this weekend. See you tonight.

Praise Him! Upstairs Be Thy Name!

Upstairs Update: Shutting the Place Down

2008-05-02T13:28:00.004-04:00

After reading the earlier report that Upstairs was shut down by the cops on Wednesday night, a Little Birdy send us this email that explains the the semi-secret Soho club was closed again last night for the oh so tricky "legal problem with the sound system".

Dear beautiful people,
We have just been informed that Upstairs will be closed tonight due to a legal problem with the sound system. This only pertains to tonight - we will be back next week with the same line up plus more! We apologize for the short notice, let us make it up to you next week...!

We hate it when that happens! Still no word if they have reopened for tonight, but we will of course try to let you know. We weep for you Upstairs, and hope that you can reopen soon. NYC needs you.

On the Circuit: Downtown Meets Uptown

2008-05-02T11:50:00.003-04:00

Belvedere kicked of their Downtown Meets Uptown party series last night at the new Rose Club at the Plaza Hotel. DBTH hasn't been that far uptown since... we'll we don't know when, but it was a pretty fancy soiree and we are still nursing our nosebleed. It was a mix of tuxedoed uptown society types, mixed with a handful of downtown hipsters. This was more than an event - this was a pah tay! The Belvedere and rose champagne were flowing (and mixed vodka drinks served in cute mini-Belveder bottles) and Citizen Cope performed an intimate set for the 200 or so guests. The A-List celeb crowd was out in full force and we spotted Harvey Weinstein (literally half the man he used to be), Matthew Perry, Malcolm Gladwell, James Gandolfini and enough models to bang all the Russian billionaires who reportedly bought all of the apartments upstairs. Judging by the female escorts these gentlemen had on their arms it is safe to say that if you get famous, you have it made.

For those of you who missed out, have no fear. This is the first of a series of events, and lucky for you, we will be there to cover them all. More like lucky for us.

Upstairs Raided

2008-05-02T09:31:00.000-04:00

So we got this rumor from a Little Birdy in the know, but haven't been able to confirm. Anyway, our Little Birdy in the know says, "~~last~~ Wednesday night upstairs got raided for apparent liquor license violations. they were shut down for the evening...not sure where it goes from here." So that's what we hear. Developing.

Flyer Follies: Spring Fling

2008-05-01T13:58:00.003-04:00

People always say, "DBTH, what are you doing to make the world a better place?" We say, "shut up". But not today. No sir. Today we are going to do our part. A Little Birdy writes:

I work for a charity, and we're having our annual fundraiser at 1oak tomorrow (thursday) night. The charity is Starfish Greathearts- we raise money for children who have been orphaned by HIV or AIDS in southern Africa, and the party is from 8-11 and has all the usual trappings of a charity event that you would expect at 1oak: hot music, fierce raffle prizes- a tocca gift bag.. airline tickets... personal styling by Diddy's own stylist- open bar, etc.

Seems like a good cause and they are giving away some good stuff. A night with Diddy's stylist is worth a lot and open bar for charity never hurt anyone either. Go out and support them tonight. And get the hell off our backs.

DBTH Poll Results: Box is Stank

2008-05-01T12:19:00.000-04:00

After posting the second DBTH poll asking what you think of the Box, the results are in and the people have spoken. It seems the Box isn't all that cool, with Stank and Rotten getting over 50% of the total votes. Dead on the vine actually came in second. Sorry Ray. Thanks for playing everyone.

Blogging For a Flogging: Samy Sass Stays Out

2008-05-01T09:09:00.001-04:00

Looks like the Flogging can happen all the way out in the desert. A Little Birdy checks in to set the record straight about Lavo, saying "You recently mentioned that Sammy Sass was partnering with Noah and Jason on their new Vegas project Lavo. He actually has nothing to do with the project." Hmmm, we guess our original source was off, because this LB would certainly know. Oh well, no one is perfect. Consider ourselves corrected and in some pain.

Introducing Rate My Promoter

2008-04-30T12:41:00.003-04:00

Introducing an ingenious new site, Rate My Promoter, "where you can either praise or bash a promoter you know". So if you've been overcharged for a night out, stuck in a bad corner table and paid full price, or been overwhelmed by stupid facebook invites, you now have a place to strike back. And because this is the internet, you can do it all anonymously! But you never know when that may come back to get you, so commenters beware.

· Rate My Promoter [Via Jossip]

On the Circuit: Chelsea Hotel's NYC Kick Off

2008-04-30T08:35:00.004-04:00

What's the best way to lure New York City's weekend escape artists to your brand new, non-gaming hotel in Atlantic City? Hire some well established New York City nightlifers to run the clubs, and throw a party in New York to show what your new hotel is made of. That's exactly the strategy that the Chelsea Hotel AC followed last night, throwing a little how's your father soiree at the Beatrice Inn. Wonder how they chose that. The party started at 7 and ended on the early side, but somehow when you step into the upstairs room, it can be any time of the day.

The crowd was mixed, with employees from Cape Advisors and the Starr Restaurant Organization mingling with other suits, publicists and high and mighty nightlife insiders. Ahem. The best part besides the open bar? It would have to be the catered menu from the nearby Morimoto, Stephen Starr's temple of sushi here in NYC. Dungeness crab, rock shrimp, yellowtail and the like went down oh so smooth. Oh yeah, they also gave out towels.

Although it was crowded, the party was a nice way to kick off the night. If the rest of the Chelsea's hotel and service operations go this smoothly, we predict big things there all summer long.

Flyer Follies: Antik is With Leathur

2008-04-29T17:20:00.004-04:00

What do you get when you cross a bar with no bar and an email telling you that "Tuesday is the new Thursday"? White Leathur @ Antik. So head down to Bowery and Great Jones anytime after 10:30 until forever and make sure you bring your own booze, because it's impossible to get served .

Snitch is Dead, Long Live Snitch

2008-04-29T11:08:00.003-04:00

Snitch, the rock and roll lounge on 21st Street, is closing its doors. They have plans to start doing concert promotions and other such events, as well as open a new space. Steve Lewis is devastated, we mean, really devastated, because Snitch was his favorite place. We mean really favorite place. Sorry Steve. That sucks. Someone send him some tissues on the quickness. But according to owner John Gabel, a new space will also open in the Snitch space, one that promises to "be an upscale lounge that will cater to the upscale social scenes of Manhattan, but I would say that customer service and operations and management will be probably greater then any place in New York." Lofty goals they laid out there, but we believe in them. Onward.

· Snitch Closes…It’s The End Of The World As We Know It [GNML]

Freemans Sporting Club Heads West

2008-04-29T09:13:00.001-04:00

The barbers from Freemans Sporting Club are heading west in more ways than one. The original is doing so well that Taavo and the gang have decided to double their pleasure, securing a space at 8th Avenue and Horatio place to open a second barber location. However, this FSC location will feature a traditional apothecary instead of clothes. Expected opening is sometime in June.

Pegu Club Goes Picante

2008-04-28T13:18:00.002-04:00

Stopping by the Pegu Club for a drink this weekend, we were tantalized by a wickedly delicious cocktail that left us wanting for more. Called the "Poquito Picante" (meaning, a little heat), the gin based drink consists of muddled jalapeno pepper, cilantro & cucumber, cointreau, and lemon juice. It's served up with a jalapeno to dare those who want a bit more spice, and is beyond smooth. We suggest climbing those steps to enjoy several.

Lavo Staffs Up!

2008-04-28T09:00:00.001-04:00

Lavo, Noah and Jason's upcoming Las Vegas mega project, is beginning to staff up. According to a Little Birdy, they are pulling their from Los Angeles. Says our LB:

Suk Sung, of Opera, Crimson, and Mood (though probably less proud of that last one), is moving from LA to Vegas at the end of the month to help start it up.

Our Little Birdy explains further that managers and hosts from both coasts are looking to move to the desert, and really, who can blame them. Unlike LA and NYC, hospitality makes the Vegas world go round, so middle management types are eager to use hotel mega clubs as a spring board to increased pay and greater opportunities. Tax trouble not included.

SLA Chief Quits

2008-04-28T08:40:00.005-04:00

Joshua Toas, the CEO of the New York State Liquor Authority, quietly resigned last week. Local community groups loved Toas, a man greatly credited for cleaning up the much-maligned SLA. According to Susan Finley (Flatiron Alliance), "He was behind the movement to clean up the SLA, which was totally out of control. He actually came to meetings and took phone calls." It's amazing that just returning phone calls is enough to make you a hero. Immediate fall out? Probably not much. Expect the issuing of liquor licenses in the City to still be restricted, due to the backlash of the Community Boards. However, any job at the SLA is about as cozy as you can get, so we expect Gov. Patterson to look to fill it on the quickness. NYC may then see an increase in licenses at the City tries to stay above the economic downtown the only way it knows how - through the bottle.

· SHOCK AS NY BOOZE BIG QUITS [NY POST]

DBTH Poll: How Fresh is The Box

2008-04-27T17:12:00.005-04:00

After last week's raucous debate over the relevance of The Box, we decided to fire up the old DBTH Poll machine to ask you, our readers, How Fresh is The Box?

Choice of 3 Answers
· Ripe and Juicy (Still hot)
· Stank and Rotten (Dunzo)
· Dead on the Vine (Never was)

Guess we already know how Ray LeMoine will vote. Polls are open until Wednesday. Participation is mandatory. DBTH is watching.

Commenter Smackdown: Cain vs Suzie Wongs

2008-04-25T17:02:00.002-04:00

We really love our commenters, especially when they go at each other and not us. After our little post on Suzie Wong's late night liquor run, a Cain employee posted a comment ripping Suzie, saying:

i work at cain and it hardly looked like you guys were busy last night- guest house looked busier lol. suzie wong seems far from right.

BURN! They called you worse than Guest House. Is Suzie going to just take that? Hell No. Comeback time:

whoever wrote that last comment really has no clue. maybe if you came inside you would have seen a real party. come check it out one night for yourself before you open your mouth

We will add the ! ourselves. Not so witty but the line in the sand is drawn. Since it's warm again, may we suggest a Top Gun style beach volleyball contest? If the feuding loungers aren't into that, there is always a Satsky special in Houstons.

Outdoor Drinking Map

2008-04-25T10:59:00.007-04:00

Our good friends at A Continuous Lean have put together another outstanding map for your enjoyment, this time plotting many of the establishments that allow the outdoor consumption of alcohol. A handy dandy reference for all of you to enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

Late Night Delivery at Suzie Wong's

2008-04-25T08:31:00.005-04:00

Either the liquor demand at Suzie Wong's is through the roof, or someone forgot to pay the distributor. How do we know? A Little Birdy on the scene last night reports, "Illegal liquor being delivered to suzie wong's at 11:30 pm??? No legal distributor is open then???!!!! In a toyota rav 4??? Something ain't right!" That has to be a record for punctuation in a tip, but still, the info is highly unusual. But, according to Nicolette, Suzie's is apparently quite popular, and it isn't completely unthinkable for an owner or manager to call in backup supply from an off site storage facility or even grab an extra case of Dom from your kick ass pad. We always keep one on hand. Doesn't everyone else?

Flyer Follies: Baby Buys A Mansion

2008-04-24T12:05:00.000-04:00

It's Tribeca Film Festival week. That's why we are shifting our attention to the Broadway adaption of John Waters Cry-Baby. Not our cup of tea, but the party is at Mansion, which isn't our cup of tea either. Oh well.

Fans of the Box Fight Back

2008-04-24T09:07:00.000-04:00

So what happens when your favorite night spot gets slammed with a bit of negative press? Take the offensive. Ray LeMoine decries Joshua David Stein's article from Page Six Mag, calling it a sham from the very start. LeMoine begins by saying, "I don’t know if they have fact checkers at the NY Post’s Page Six Mag, but yesterday a story ran about The Box where the first sentence was a lie." As for the belief that the club may be slipping, LeMoine is adamant that the opposite is true, stating"

In truth, The Box is actually better now than a year ago. The owners have put together a more fluid show, one without boring filler acts. And the crowd is more downtown than a year ago. After Box-owner Cordell Lochin was locked up for drug trafficking, Serge Becker, another owner, hired Christian Alexander. Christian lives in the LES and is tied to downtown’s art, music, fashion, and media circles more than anyone who’s ever worked at the Box save Hammerstein. Lochin was known for his celeb-ties, whereas Christian is the guy celebs come to for a unique egalitarin NYC vibe. Now on any given night you’ll see a Supreme-type with a bartender from a local spot hanging with Ally Hilfiger and Robin Thicke.

That's hot. That's so so hot and cool. But is it true? Our experts say possibly not, with a Little Birdy saying that while some musicians are still showing up to get on stage, the overall celeb buzz has dried up drastically. This debate is far from over, but maybe that is true for The Box too.

Mr. Soft(Shell Crab)ee

2008-04-23T12:22:00.005-04:00

It's that time of year again. Soft Shell Crab time! So drink until your hearts and stomachs desire greasy food and head down to our favorite late night grease fest at Great NY Noodle Town and devour an order of soft shell crabs. We're not talking about those frozen ones they serve all year. Real fresh ones. You know what we're talking about. But like all other late night food, expect prices to have increased from last season. Ouch.

Signing the Box

2008-04-23T07:38:00.000-04:00

Poor The Box. Simon Hammerstein and Serge Becker's theater du nightclub really specializes in getting poor press. After Joshua David Stein's page turning expose in this past Sunday's Page Six the Magazine revealed the seedier side of the club, may had us wondering what else could possibly happen?

According to a report on Animal New York, "Now someone is going around and warning the public about the club's bouncer Gans, claiming he's an alleged "DRUG PEDDLER" and that he "RAPED TWO WOMEN." Well, that certainly is no good.

See what happens when you try to be different? We have always supported the Box for at least trying something in the staid atmosphere. But really, it seems to be just a matter of time before the other shoe drops.

Cinema Society Heats Up

2008-04-22T14:33:00.000-04:00

Only a few weeks after a Little Birdy declared the Cinema Society dead, it seems things with Andrew Saffir's film parties have taken a turn for the interesting. Last night, the Cinema Society's finest hit up Nobu 57 for the after party for "Then She Found Me", a movie that will be in theaters for a few weeks. Maybe. According to our Little Birdy, "the place was pretty star studded. Broderick, SJP, Seinfeld, Ricki Lake and Bette Midler were all there. Besides, who could pass up free Nobu?" Well, the sushi sounds OK, but those celebs seem a bit tired to us. Funny picture though. Aren't they a cute couple? Gorgeous. Gorgeous.

Eric Goode Grabbing Magic Castle

2008-04-22T11:30:00.001-04:00

Let's fly out to the Left Coast to discuss a juicy rumor from our friends at HotelChatter. It seems that New York hotelier Eric Goode has his eyes on the mysterious Magic Castle in the heart of Hollywood, and Sean MacPherson may not be part of it. So who is the replacement? According to HC, it may be New York City's own Serge Becker. What a tag team!

So what do we think? From our own experience, the Magic Castle is a one of a kind property, a proper magician's club with an established hotel already operating next to it, plus a sushi restaurant boasting one of a kind views across the Los Angeles sky. However, it has been rather down and out over the past decade. This project reeks of Goode/Macpherson; rehabbing an existing property and making it a destination, and the castle architecture could make it the next Chateau Marmont. Uh, maybe not that far. We are just surprised to see Becker possibly replacing MacPherson on this one. Hope everything is ok with the dynamic duo.

Ready, Set, Picnic Club!

2008-04-22T08:16:00.002-04:00

The oh so mysterious, whimsical, and fanciful Picnic Club NYC checks to let us know that picnic season kicks off this weekend. Let's go to the announcement:

We have posted today the details for our first picnic, which will be this coming sunday, the 27th, at 1pm at Sheep Meadow. We think its going to be a big hit and hope that you can make it!

For more information, head on over to the site. And make sure you start working on your recipes today. No one wants no store bought hummus or doritos.

The Soho Scoop

2008-04-21T11:35:00.000-04:00

Is Soho finally rediscovering its inner nightlife? If Zev Norotsky and Company have their way, the answer is a resounding yes. Zev checks in, saying "I have a new lounge project called Origine (in the basement space of Fr.Og) opening on Spring b/w Crosby and Lafayette in early May, my partner is Matt Shendell (Dune, Honey, Dip). I have Ricky Powell (the 4th beastie boy) providing the images, for example an early, never before seen photo of the beastie boys and run dmc on a tour bus together during the mid-80's. Jarett Brodie (vong, aix) has been named executive chef of the restaurant upstairs called Fr.Og and we have a few high profile private dinner parties slated for the coming weeks. The concept is a very basic downtown lounge, I'm really trying to embrace the neighborhood and provide another nightlife option for that location.

Zev also points out that this helps give their valuable Dune customers a NYC option before they head out east to the Hamptons during the hot summer season. Hot! We always think that downtown can use another downtown lounge, so this is right in our wheelhouse. Origine is opening soon - we will keep you posted.

Smith and Mills Reduxe: Holy Bat Shit

2008-04-21T08:22:00.000-04:00

Early Friday morning, we received several frantic emails regarding a possible raid at Smith and Mills. Later that morning, we received a copy of a letter to the local Community Board that our tipster (and Smith and Mills neighbor) submitted. Obviously there was some serious animosity between the two parties. Smith and Mills owner Matt Abramyck checked in with Grub Street (why not us?) on the matter with his neighbor Victoria Hillstron, saying “She has cornered my partner, yells at our staff, yells at our customers — she’s a real-life nightmare.”

You know Matt, you may be on to something. Because when we woke up on Saturday morning, our in box was filled with 14 raving emails from Ms. Hillstrom, some with blurry photos, some with crude videos, that accused Smith and Mills from arson to running away with the spoon. We seriously doubt any of these claims, and sincerely apologize for getting involved with this mess in the first place.

Happy Birthday DBTH

2008-04-18T15:30:00.000-04:00

Finally, we would like to wish ourselves the happiest of birthdays. If anyone wants to celebrate, you just have to try and find us. Or buy us a table. You get the drift.

[Photo Credit]

Rick's Cabaret Eats Scores

2008-04-18T14:04:00.003-04:00

Some news from the world of strip clubs. First they steal Lonnie Hanover. Now Rick's Cabaret, the only publicly listed gentleman's club, has purchased Scores Las Vegas for $21 million. Look at that picture. The Rick's life is pretty foreign looking.

Is it just us, or will there be more Rick's than Houstons soon? Nevermind.

Female Talent: The Recap

2008-04-18T12:00:00.001-04:00

What a week! Who knew that our little poll experiment would draw so much attention? Certainly not us, but we aren't complaining. We though a nice way to end the week would be to recap some of our favorite comments and emails. Nifty idea, right? Right.

I think you left out a very key and important place..... Upstairs, how could you even have any of these places and not mention the Upstairs. by far it is much better than any of these other venues.

sincerely,
Richie A.

one who loves the highest quality female talent

Sorry Richie A. We will try harder next time. Promise. One reader thought:

I guess it all depends on what you like. If you want boring, vapid pretty girls with no personality, too much makeup, and priorities that revolve around blowing their way to the top, you can head to 1oak or upstairs, or marquee, or tenjune. But if you want girls that are actually capable of having a conversation, and our hot in that fresh faced, college type of way, I'd much rather head to a spot like Studio B. Shtooping dumb pretty girls has it's benefits, but some of these places just overdo it.

Tell us how you really feel. Finally, our favorite response came from our winner, Rose Bar, who responded to the great news by saying

This is NOT a confirmation.

-----------------------

We have received your reservation request; thank you for considering the Jade and Rose Bars at the Gramercy Park Hotel.

If we are able to accommodate you we will reply with a confirmation email within 24 hours.

Both bars begin daily service at 12 pm, with lunch being served until 3 pm.

Reservations are required after 9 pm.

Please note that the Rose Bar is closed on Sunday nights after 8 pm. Service is available in the Jade Bar only.

Thank you,

The Jade and Rose Bars at The Gramercy Park Hotel

New York City everyone. Catch the fever.

Smith and Mills Insanity!

2008-04-18T10:39:00.003-04:00

Below is the transcript of a letter written by an upstairs neighbor of Smith and Mills. This fight is beyond nasty!

Dear Boards, Friends and Neighbors,

Many of you read the article "Bar Brawl" in The Post and hope you know this was a publicity stunt. Not a word of this story was true. As you know there would be no reason to "brawl" on N Moore. They were asked to move a Moped. Sanitation had been after for weeks.

I did write the Mayor because what they were doing had became dangerous. A danger to all of us. They had a fire and a history of fire. Our house could of burnt down. Our home is all 3 floors above them. They caught a womans coat on fire. Burning it to shreds. Had it been a few hours later there would have been many more coats and many more people. Someone could have been killed. That is why I wrote the Mayor. Packing so many people in and then lock themselves in with a look out to whistle when they see the Police. Police and Fire were not able to handle. Mostly because they tell so many stories. Somehow suggesting we were the only ones concerned. When all the neighbors had banded together to suspend their license suspecting their intent from the start.

These are the boys from Beatrice Inn. Sadly, no one investigated or even the press would have connected the dots long before printing this story. Explaining the reason for no sign. When it turns out it was as simple as googling Matt Abramcyk and Beatrice Inn all along. Since its no secret what they are up to in the media. It seems this had to do with their troubles at Beatrice Inn. Rather then anything that had happened here and their concerns for getting caught on both licenses.

We were told of "the neighbor" above Beatrice the day the story broke. Seems she got them in a world of trouble costing them a small fortune. They then paid her another fortune to move and leave her home. Then set out to make up these stories on us. All while the "Mayor's Task Force" was at Beatrice by thier own admission on google in an article "Beatrice Currently Shut Down to Everyone, Not Just You" at the very same time. For all of the same troubles we had with them here relating to soundspoofing, noise, issues of electrical & plumbing. Partying all over the streets till the wee hours. Having no regard for others or the law.

New York Magazine said they were taking the "offense" in an article "Smith and Mills Fights for Its Rights to Party". When both are on restaurant licenses but have no kitchens. Strangely all in basements. In our case now attempting to cook to pretend it to be a restaurant ruining everything we own. Since that building has no vent or exhaust. In fear of getting caught on both licenses. While Hipguide New York just illustrated thier reasoning and not one department has stepped in to stop them. When its a danger to all to of us.

Blackbook magazine's "STRAIGHT OFF THE HANGOVER BEATRICE INN COMES MATT ABRAMCYKS SMITH AND MILLS spoke to their intent from the start. While preying on residentials streets, where its neighbors are unsuspecting, then preying on its residents. On the most beautiful and relevant tree lined streets in Manhattan.

They even tried to arrest me, a resident of N Moore, for walking down the street. After being cited and fined by Police and Fire 3 times the week before. After throwing parties during fashion week for over 100 people in a single car garage and spilling on its streets. Waiting for me to innocently walk one day in one day and found it befitting to put a resident of an 8 bedroom home in handcuffs, over the word of a bar. Attempting arrest which failed. When they were caught lying to the officers by Annie, the Manager at Ivy's, demanding my release. Explaining to the officers they were lying. I was never told what I was accused or permitted to speak or even had my name and hope you can begin to grasp the brevity of how far they are willing to go in the name of thier folly.

They now are telling even taller tales on the Supreme Court. Asking it to somehow concern itself with our home. In a lawsuit only meant to further harass us. When I've not spoken to them or looked in thier direction for 7 months after the false attempt. Yet the very relief seek from the courts. Harassing us full on ever since the false attempt and more out of control then ever which finally led to fire. I had told the Police I would write the Mayor because his daughter is our neighbor. Her building could have burnt down too. This "sister" story was pure cinema. Still insisting we were the only ones this concerned. Because that is what these boys had told them. I suspect with the same counsel that handled their troubles at Beatrice.

After putting resident of an 8 bedroom home in handcuffs, breaking into our home, never having soundproofed the space because they have no money.

In a space simply too small for what they are doing. I hope you can understand why anyone would call the Police. Its dangerous. Since they can not sue us for calling 311 or writing the Mayor or calling the Police "anonymously" they invented these fairy tales on us and the courts and press. Trading on our notoriety on a pack of lies, they know full well to be a to lies themselves, holding us up on our own notoriety. When they never even paid us for the space, damaged our home from stem to stern and we are the only ones who suffered any harm what so ever.

To put a resident of N Moore in handcuffs or tell tall tales on the courts or break in anyones home in the name of a liquor license is completely and extremely serious. I'm not certain you can imagine what it would be like to have been preyed on because you were alone or harassed full on by boys in a bar. Afraid to leave your home in fear of what they will do next. Accused of stripping jackhammers from hotel construction workers in the press. Even accused of causing the hotel's delay in an attempt to give their false claim merit. Even trading on Robert Deniro's name in this lawsuit in an attempt to shop this story in the press which failed and ask that you lend your voices. Before we too in the words of Spencer Morgan of the Observer have "Bedlam at Beatrice" or others suffer harm too.

Holy camoly Birdys. This one is getting real nasty.

Hamptons are for Partners!

2008-04-18T08:47:00.002-04:00

Can you believe it's almost May. It really is so close to summer share season! Yippee! In honor of the traffic on the LIE, we bring you this very special Hamptons report, with a Little Birdy saying:

David Sarner & Bobby Montwaid, the duo behind the Pink Elephant brand, have partnered with nightlife impresarios Pavan & Shaun Rose to take over the Tavern space in Southampton formerly occupied by Stereo. The group will now have control of the space in the Capri Hotel known as Pink Elephant as well as Tavern, consolidating power over two of the only three nightclubs in the Hamptons to one group. The space at the Capri will remain Pink Elephant and plans for Tavern haven't been revealed yet. With everyone from Tenjune, Kiss & Fly, and Greenhouse vying for the space, it will be interesting to see how things develop between now and Memorial Day…

Sure it smells of a press release, but it's so juicy that we don't really give a damn. As for who will get the space, maybe we smell a poll. Hmmm.

Raid at Smith & Mills

2008-04-18T08:22:00.003-04:00

A Little Birdy filed this breathless report from Smith and Mills at 2:30 AM, saying

Hey Mayor Task force just moved in on Smith and Mills. All same troubles at Beatrice Inn. Turns out no broken bottles, no screaming get out. The construction delayed bc all nabes suspended their license May 06 thru April 07. About get nailed lying on supreme court. SLA about nail them too over license and putting its residents harms way.

All of this seems to add up to big trouble. Consider this developing.

[Photo Credit]

Noah and Jason Live LAVO

2008-04-17T12:53:00.004-04:00

Thanks to Lloyd Grove and a super long interview with Noah Tepperberg on Portfolio's website, we get a bit more information on Noah and Jason's upcoming Las Vegas project with Sammy Sass. You know, the one we told you about in January. Noah tells Lloyd

And now Jason, myself, Seth (Rodsky), Mark (Packer), and Rich (Wolf) have again partnered to open a new place in Las Vegas, which will be opening in about three months in the Palazzo hotel. It's a restaurant and a nightclub, rather large, and it's going to be called Lavo.

Fascinating stuff. Not only that, a Little Birdy tells us that it is designed by Avro/Ko. We look forward to it.

[Photo credit]

Sixpoint Ales Does Its Part

2008-04-17T11:12:00.004-04:00

Sixpoint Craft Ales is steadily growing, expanding it's offering of delicious brews and outlets, all from the comfort of its Brooklyn manufacturing space. Not only that, they are trying to be as sustainable as possible. How so? Jeff Gorlechen from the Sixpoint promotions team fills us in, saying:

After being used for brewing beer, all of our spent grain is used to feed livestock on Long Island.

We buy used/recycled kegs, especially our 5 gallon soda kegs, which are normally thrown out for scrap. We also don't bottle our beer, so there's no wasteful packaging. We fill the kegs, ship them to our distributor, they get shipped back to us, then they are returned to us, then we clean and refill them, then ship them back out again.

We recycle the heat energy from the boiling process of the wort and use it to heat tap water for use in the next day’s brew.

All of our brewers take the subway to work ;-)

Truly great stuff Sixpoint. Keep up the great work!

Dear Rose Bar

2008-04-17T08:50:00.003-04:00

To: Rose Bar; Syndicate PR
From: DBTH
Subject: Congratulations!

Dear Rose Bar,

We at Down By The Hipster would like to congratulate you on winning our first ever DBTH poll. With 52 votes cast out of a total of 195 , our readers have voted Rose Bar as having the most attractive female clientèle in New York City! YAY! It's not a majority, but it's not too shabby either. Obviously, your strategy is working, and we encourage you all to keep doing what you're doing.

Humbly,

DBTH

PS: Please share this with Sir Ian. Thanks!

Rusty Knot: The Video

2008-04-16T13:02:00.002-04:00

Behold, a video tribute to the Rusty Knot.

Dear DBTH: Female Talent Update

2008-04-16T11:25:00.002-04:00

There are only 3 hours left to vote in the first ever DBTH poll! OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG. Vote now or we will all cry. And for those of you who hated on Studio B being included, we are pleased to say it is holding its own.

VOTE!

Drama At the Accompanied Literary Society

2008-04-16T08:24:00.004-04:00

Ever wonder what happens at a gala for the Accompanied Literary Society at a private townhouse in Gramercy Park? Apparently, people collapse and get taken out on a stretcher in front of Harvey Weinstein and Graydon Carter! Thanks to the beauty of BlackBerry messenger, DBTH gets a scoopy scoop.

Oh we oh my! That is so not good. This both makes and debunks the argument that these private clubs and societies should be courting younger members. Because what happens at the Accompanied Literary Society should stay at the Accompanied Literary Society.

Dear DBTH: Tube Top Tuesday!

2008-04-15T13:01:00.002-04:00

Our readers sure do love to ask questions. And we love to ask you for answers. After a spirited debate about what to do on Wednesday nights, a reader asks:

Hi DBTH,

Love your blog. What is good on Tuesday nights?

Thank you!

Most people would say The Real Housewives of New York, but we know that's not what you are looking for. So come on everybody, let's hear what's hot tonight. And don't say Tuesday's at Life with Danny A, because we know that ain't happening anymore.

DBTH Goes Green

2008-04-15T11:24:00.001-04:00

In honor of Earth Day, we here at DBTH have asked some locals about to discuss what they do to promote sustainability. First up, William Tigertt from Freemans explains how one of our favorite spots keeps it green.

We have several Green initiatives at Freemans:

1. All deep fryer grease is recycled into Bio-Diesel.

2. All paper, glass, metal and cardboard is recycled. It's the law, but a lot of small places just dump it for lack of space and effort.

2. 60% of our power comes from Wind and hydro green providers (we're still working on finding vendor for the other 40% - high voltage meter)

3. Our house brand bottled water comes from Maine in re-usable bottles that are sent back and re-filled.

4. Our wine list is mostly European which is uses less energy to mass ship via freighter than trucking wines from California or shipping from Australia. The bulk of our list is also bio-dynamic or organic wine from small estate bottled traditional producers.

5. Our eggs are all organic. Our diary is growth hormone free. We use mostly local producers and labor such as Heritage Foods pork which slaughters 1000 pigs a year versus 1000 pigs a day at large commercial farm.

6. Many of the building materials at Freemans are from reclaimed wood and recycled antiques

7. We keep a small potted garden outside in the Alley which is used for herbs and maintained by local community gardener.

We're constantly looking for new ways to reduce our footprint despite being such a busy neighborhood place.

All excellent measures, keeping the food delicious with a minimal impact on the environment. Just like us. Stay tuned for more.

Dear DBTH: Female Talent

2008-04-14T14:19:00.005-04:00

A reader says:

A friend recently told me that in his opinion, rose bar attracts the most beautiful women, out of all the NYC nightlife venues. It will be interesting if you guys asked the readers' for their thoughts on the places with the highest quality female talent.

Great topic for discussion. So great that we have created the first ever DBTH reader poll. Just look to the right and you will be able to cast your vote(s). The bars were selected randomly without much thought, so if you have another selection, throw it in the comments. The winner gets nothing, participants may get something. Probably not.