New York

588 Grand St between Leonard and Lorimer; 718.218.8555

Created by Danny Meyer alums, this minimalist-yet-homey bar pares high-end tavern grub (e.g., Biellese ham w/ beer-soaked Irish cheddar) with expertly-made cocktails like the Prometheus (Bombay Gin, fennel) and the Strega-Saurus -- made with Italian herbal liqueur, its side effects include liqueur-induced braggadocio, herb-goggles, and tiny, atrophied dino-arms.

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241 W 14th St between 7th and 8th; 212.255.9300

HQ'd in a five-story townhouse, this Soho House for creative types plans on limiting access to invited members and their esteemed guests. The hoped-for line-up includes painters, musicians, writers, chefs, fashion designers, and collectors, who'll sit around congratulating themselves on their paintings, music, writing, food, fashion, and...Kirby Puckett rookie cards?

Oct 9-12 at 485 7th Ave, Ste 908, between 36th and 37th; 212.760.0078

Up to 80% off debonair but accessible dress pants, shirts, and jackets from Michael Wesetly, plus slightly more daring blazers from American Chang emblazoned with giant fleur-de-lis appliqués, woven peace symbols, and furry ankhs -- an Egyptian fertility symbol that says even though you're dressed to impress, you're liable to pop out a litter of chinchillas at any moment.

151 E 50th St between Lexington and 3rd; 212.753.1144

Tired of their club's waiflike clientele, Nikki's has broken out a hotel-style, all-you-can-eat buffet, with options both cold (lobster/crab/shrimp salad, fresh fruit, pastries) and hot (omelettes, French toast, brie-stuffed chicken). $29 covers endless return trips, plus one cocktail -- as food + unlimited drinks would result in "All They Can Mop".