Dimes Square: A Slice of Downtown New York's Soul
Let's get one thing straight. Dimes Square isn't a morning person. This pocket of the Lower East Side truly comes alive as the afternoon sun starts to fade, transforming into one of New York's most compelling evening destinations.
First Stop: Early Evening Drinks
The beauty of Dimes Square lies in its contrasts, perfectly exemplified by two of our favourite aperitivo spots:
Tolo: While technically a Chinese restaurant, we're drawn here for their phenomenal afternoon sunshine and prime people-watching position. Grab a street-side table and let the neighbourhood's energy wash over you from a comfortable distance. Always ask about their daily special pours - their wine selection, curated by Parcelle, features over 300 thoughtfully chosen bottles.
Le Dive: This is where you'll find all the action. A see-and-be-seen natural wine bar that captures the neighbourhood's electric atmosphere. While the scene can be overwhelming, the drinks are consistently excellent.
Dinner Plans
Cervo's: Always our first choice, if you can secure a table. Our tried-and-true strategy: arrive at 5:30 PM sharp when they open and embrace an early dinner. Everything on the menu delivers, but it's their vermouth cocktails and natural wine selection that keep us coming back. Pro tip: don't skip the seafood, it's their specialty.
Kiki's: What started as our Plan B has become an equally beloved Plan A. This is Greek food at its finest, served in an environment where hours slip by as you order just one more dish, one more beer. The casual setting belies the exceptional quality of everything that leaves their kitchen.
Corner Bar: When you're in the mood to elevate your evening, head over to Corner Bar. Their burger deserves its reputation as one of the city's finest. If you're feeling particularly indulgent, consider booking a room at Nine Orchard. There's something magical about a staycation in the heart of this neighbourhood.
Late Night Moves
Parcelle Chinatown: Our go-to for serious wine enthusiasts. With over 500 bottles and an often overlooked but exceptional sake selection, this is where you come to discover something new. The snack menu is perfectly crafted to complement their extensive wine list.
Sake Bar Asoko: A true hidden gem that opened in 2024. This isn't just a sake bar, it's a cultural experience. Complete with Japanese jazz, Daido Moriyama photographs, and knowledgeable staff who make sake approachable and exciting. Perfect for both date night and solo exploration.
Time Again: Currently the neighbourhood's hottest spot, and for good reason. This former parking lot has been transformed into something uniquely New York. An outdoor gathering space where you might find anything from a pop-up lobster roll stand to an impromptu Clipse concert. The drinks are reasonably priced ($9 wines, $13 cocktails), and the crowd is always interesting.
Eel Bar: When we're in the mood for incredible cocktails and guaranteed good vibes, we head here. Their mezcal drinks are dangerously good, and the Basque-inspired menu never disappoints. Grab a seat at the bar, that's where the magic happens.
A Final Note
Dimes Square isn't trying to be anything other than what it is - a vibrant pocket of downtown New York where good food, interesting drinks, and eclectic crowds come together to create something special. The neighbourhood's charm lies in its ability to feel both carefully curated and completely spontaneous. Come with an open mind, and let the evening take you where it may.
