Local Go-Tos with Maxwell Britten, Tali Lennox, Zackery Michael & Others

Our Locals segment provides insights into New Yorker’s preferred haunts—the places they return to time and time again, whether by virtue of the location, the food, drinks, vibe, staff, or perhaps because the unique combination of all these things creates the ideal home away from home. 

Here, we revisit interviews with Tali Lennox, Maxwell Britten, Zackery Michael, and others, and share their responses to the question, “What’s your go-to spot in NYC for drinks, and what do you order when you go?” Here’s what they told us…

Tali Lennox, Artist 

“Lucien for an espresso martini—be warned: mornings after may be foggy; Russian Samovar Restaurant and piano bar—a one-of-a-kind spot, you feel like you’re in a David Lynch film; Sake Bar Satsko—tucked-away East Village spot that’s never too full and always so charming; San Pedro in Red Hook for margaritas.” 

Zackery Michael, Photographer 

“Iona in Brooklyn is my watering hole. It’s the closest thing to a proper pub you’ll find in NYC (or the USA?). My favorite fancy spot is St. Mazie. They have live jazz/bluegrass every single night. If you’re with a gf/bf in NYC and are trying to impress them, this will work. Also, Hotel Delmano is always a great hang.”

Lyndsey Butler, CEO & Creative Directo Veda 

“In summer, I prefer to drink outside: Kiki’s if you can get a window seat; Grand Banks; Dante; Barrio Chino…” 

Maxwell Britten, Managing Partner The Django 

“Wine Bars that I love: Four Horseman—great selection, very well-curated. They have great food as well if you want a meal, also great playlists; Les Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels—this is where you go if you want to experience a really deep list of French wine. I am all about champagne and they have some incredible cuvées here. 

Cocktail Bars: Donna—It’s an open and very well-designed space. Go there for the great location (South Williamsburg) and the Brancaloda (Frozen Pina Colada made with Fernet Branca). Great service too; Katana Kitten—this is a super fun Japanese cocktail bar in the West Village. The drinks are great but I really go for the environment. The guest and the team there just have a great time. Say hi to Masa Urushido, he owns the place and you can see him enjoying himself and his guests most nights; Caffe Dante—this is such a cool spot. It’s been established since 1915 and the new owners took it over but kept the vibe and façade as genuinely possible. They are known for their work with Italian spirits and vermouth. If I were you I would grab a few Aperol Spritz and do some people watching on the patio tables.”

Jake Mueser, Master Tailor, Founder J. Mueser Bespoke

“Summer drinks at Grand Banks. Winter drinks by the fire at One if by Land, Two if by Sea.”

Read the full interviews in our Locals segment—here.

For a list of bars and restaurants open for outdoor dining, takeaway and delivery, check out our Neighborhood Guide—here.  

PHOTOGRAPHY @stmazie