Verlaine rates at the hipness level of the nearby Rivington Hotel and other martini bars in the city, but the snootiness is nonexistent and the drink prices are just right. The design is minimalist, with a standard sleek bar and soft lighting in cubic shades. Not too long ago, I was able to reserve the front section of the restaurant for a party I was hosting. The couch is red velvet and shaped like a horseshoe wrapped around a coffee table. Next to this area was an L-shaped couch, also with a coffee table. We had plenty of room to sit and eat or walk around and mingle. I had such a good time!

The bar runs straight back into the restaurant area, where there are modern, yet cozy tables for dining. The food on the menu is perfect for when you're out partying, mainly because there are great shareable Asian appetizers, like satay and curry puffs. Main courses, like the black bean salmon with rice, are easy to share as well, keeping bellies filled while you're sipping on one of their delicious specialty drinks. The vibe is modern, chic but unpretentious, and the REALLY special reason why everyone loves this place is that the happy hour that lasts until 10pm. Their $4 lychee martinis, beer ,and wine specials are all under 5 bucks and are a great way to enjoy going out at a chic place without blowing a lot of cash.

The more expensive drinks can be worth it, though, with drinks that combine kumquats, sake, champagne, and crushed fresh fruit. Delish! I fully recommend starting a bar-hopping venture at Paladar around the corner and at 7pm moving over to Verlaine to continue the happy hour until 10pm. Paladar is a Latin restaurant that offers fruity  half-price drinks during their happy hour (read my review). Have fun!!!