Does any other bar honestly think they'd ever have a chance of topping this joint's jukebox? Known as "EL DJ," it might not look like much, but this wunderkind of pre-recorded music boasts more than 31,000 mp3s and can instantly call up tracks from Aesop Rock to ZZ Top. An exceptionally friendly bar staff, cheap booze and kick-ass nightly drink specials from 9 p.m. to midnight completes the picture. Built on the former site of Brownies, an Alphabet City classic, it looks like this joint is on its way to becoming one as well.

See more: East Village bars, Music bars, Neighborhood bars