Can't judge a bar by its cover

A couple weeks ago, I stumbled upon the Brandy Library in Tribeca. This might be my new favorite cocktail lounge. Not only is it by my house, it's totally different than any other place I've been in the city. Yes, it does have the typical old boys club feel, but look closer and you'll notice that the books have been replace with bottles of aged cognacs, Armagnacs, whiskies, brandies, and rums from around the world. At first, the cocktail menu can be a little intimidating but they do have fun descriptions for all the drinks. If you don't know where to begin, just ask the bartender for a suggestion. When I was there, I had a nasty cough, so they whipped me up their version of a hot toddy, made with whiskey, honey and lemon juice. Another one to try is The Librarian: cognac, ruby port, and creme de framboise.