Apothéke
Bartenders—or are they druggists?—in white coats pour unusual potions (many of which are distilled in-house) from corked beakers in this former opium den, which now resembles a cross between a luxurious parlor and an old-fashioned pharmacy. Pretentious? A little. But popular too. Those in pursuit of such pleasurable alternative medicine are advised to make an appointment. 9 Doyers St between Bowery and Pell St (212-406-0400, apothekebar.com)

Good World Bar & Grill
This rustic spot plays to a Scandinavian theme (yes, in Chinatown) with rough-hewn wooden tables and a menu that offers meatballs and pickled herring. A giant stuffed caribou presides over the bar, but this place is chic; Miranda ate here in the Sex and the City movie. The ample selection of suds includes Swedish Pripps Carnegie, a bitter, chocolaty porter, along with a couple bubbly Belgians on tap. 3 Orchard St between Canal and Division Sts (212-925-9975, goodworldbar.com)

The Randolph
A 1,500-square-foot booze destination with a fairly low attitude quotient (if you look past the velvet rope, that is), the Randolph features classic cocktails (Pimm’s cups) mingled with signature drinks like the Michael Derry (pilsner, vodka and lemon juice). Crowds pack the bar and the downstairs lounge for sweaty deejayed dance parties that blend hip-hop, punk, soul and ’80s pop into a mix of boogieworthy beats. 349 Broome St between Elizabeth St and Bowery (212-274-0667, randolphnyc.com)

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