Salon Millesime

New York tipplers have seen their fair share of themed drinking establishments pop up over the past few years, so it’s no shock that the new lounge in the Carlton Hotel comes replete with a hook: Tin Pan Alley. The swank environs—polished darkwood, tasteful animal print upholstery—may be a posh reimagining of the Alley's ragtime past, but there's an emphasis on live music (played on the lounge's baby grand, or from the more contemporary DJ booth), and early 20th-century cocktails. In an ultimate homage to Tin Pan Alley regular Cole Porter, the Night & Day is a twist on the Manhattan, with a portion of the proceeds supporting VH1's "Save the Music" fund. To keep you sober enough to avoid sidling up to the piano and serenading the room with your own take on a Porter classic, the kitchen turns out playful small plates like pork belly lollipops and tomato cucumber tartare, as well as classics like Oysters Rockefeller. The second floor in this soaring space (once home to Country) will eventually become a full-service restaurant. Until then, enjoy the late night snacks, as well as early morning breakfast featuring omelets, crepes and Le Colombe coffee.

See more: American contemporary restaurants