New York nightlife's new destination, Cain is the spot to see and be seen. Behind the velvet rope awaits a swank, African-themed game lodge that boasts the hottest Djs from around the globe, strong beverages and New York's beloved celebrity nightlife veterans. On a good night, expect plenty of door drama, and long lines for the bathroom and bars. Dress to impress, or risk being denied entry, or worse, being judged by an Olsen Twin.

History keeps the crowds coming back to this Chinatown hotspot. Formerly an erotic massage parlor, Happy Ending Lounge has transformed a simple Chinatown storefront into a decadent New York nightlife destination. The downstairs club level boasts original tiling and fixtures from the club's ill reputed past. The drinks and staff equally exceed expectation. The illustrious back story makes this New York club scene all the more interesting and appreciated.

Though this trendy bar in New York's Little Italy is sleek and sophisticated, it lacks the drama and pretension that can ruin the loveliest of locales. It's comfortable, chill vibe makes it easy to focus on the brilliance of the bar menu. A wide array of specialty beverages and martinis are sure to please. Grab a seat at the bar and watch the expert mixologist whip up ginger, lychee or strawberry balsamic martinis. Complete with an indoor smoking lounge, Shebeen is on the list of New York nightlife's most relaxing destinations.

A good time is sure to be had at the East Village's Crocodile Lounge. Beers are served with free personal pizzas, making them well worth the price. Complete with two skee-ball lanes, a vast array of video games, a photo-booth and outdoor patio area, The Crocodile Lounge guarantees an evening of good laughs, cold beer and hot pizza. Check out Wednesday night's Trivia Challenge and embolden your competitive streak.

Formerly the home of Wonderland, this East Village destination is quickly becoming one of the hottest gay bars in New York. With well-priced drinks and interesting decor, this communist themed New York bar jams packed with ever-fabulous gay club kids and their cohorts. The stripper pole in the middle of the bar makes for great fun as a participant or spectator, and the friendly crowd never fails to provide one of New York's finest nightlife atmospheres.

The Grand Bar and Lounge is not only one of the most opulent bars in New York City, but it is also located in New York's most fashionable district. The Soho Grand Hotel, which houses the Grand Bar and Lounge, is distinct in its contemporary design and is regarded as the premier destination for the luxury traveler. New York legends from Woody Allen to Rudy Giuliani make up the bar's regular clientèle. If you are looking to marry New York nightlife with luxury, look no farther.

This dive bar is one of the few places in New York City where you can find $3 tequila shots, cheap beer, and the promise of celebrity caliber atmosphere. With multiple theme parties and a friendly staff, a night at the Skinny is a night to remember. This bar tends to fill up, as it is not the largest. Getting past its thin, shotgun bar proves to be a tight squeeze on a busy night, proving that the skinny lives up to its name both on your wallet and your sense of personal space.

For the most secluded, relaxing, and luxurious nightlife experience, Milk and Honey is bar none. This ultra exclusive, ultra expensive bar is accessible by reservation only to non-members. However, the effort is well worth it. The service exceeds legendary, the drinks are artisan-crafted masterpieces, and the ambiance is nothing short of breathtaking. Make sure to check out the "House Rules" before your visit, which include no name-dropping, no hooting and hollering and no loitering outside.

The West Village's unassuming nature lends itself to the comfortable atmosphere at this favorite New York City bar. The wine list can't be beat, including some of the best reds and whites from around the world. Their selection of international wines is rivaled solely by their beer selection. Low-key atmosphere provides the perfect contrast to the top-notch selection of drinks. Whether you are catching up with friends or going on a first date, great wines flow second to great times at the Other Room.

One of the most iconic, revolutionary and recognizable clubs ever to grace New York City, CBGB, closed recently due to failure to renew their lease. The club is said to be scouting a new location, but a year later no development has taken place. The clubs owner, Hilly Krystal, opened the club in December of 1973, paving the way for the punk rock movement in New York City. His death in 2007 may be the end to the final chapter of this 30-year legacy of a venue. However, at this time, relocation is still a possibility.

Opened in 1998, Lei is the name given to one of the downstairs bars in Niagara, a retro-looking cocktail lounge. Unfortunately, it draws a fratboy crowd on the weekends, but for the most part, it is populated with East Village rockers, cocktail scenesters, rockabilly aficionados and locals. (Excerpt from Tiki Road Trip: A Guide to Tiki Culture in North America by James Teitelbaum)

Another of the handful of Tiki bars that suddenly invaded NYC in 2001 and 2002, Otto's (owned by Steve Pang) is a live rock club with a Tiki theme. Tikis carved by Wayne Coombs (one of which emits smoke from its nose) abound. A photo booth features a Tiki scene as a backdrop. Other decor includes vintage Tiki mugs, puffer fish, leopard-print bar stools and a decidedly non-Tiki vintage playboy pinball machine. Classic drinks (served in Tiki mugs) include Missionary's Downfall, Drunken Bastard, Patty's Passions and the highly recommended Pang's Punch. (Excerpt from Tiki Road Trip: A Guide to Tiki Culture in North America by James Teitelbaum)