The former haunt of beat generation icons such as Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady, Vesuvio is a gritty, eclectic little bar with a lot of character and decent drinks. Dark, cozy, and crowded with stained glass, lava lamps and "antiques," its the perfect place to have a quiet drink with a date (and most of the tables are for two). Aim for a table on the second floor, which has a balcony that overlooks the bar and provides a great view of the interesting decor. Vesuvio should not be missed by devotees of the beat generation, but history and literature aside, this odd little bar is a treat for anyone interested in having a good drink in a place that invites quiet conversation.