New York City Nightlife Scene Surveyed by Zagat

Average Drink Price in New York City Now $10.12

. October 14, 2008

NEW YORK, NY, June 13, 2007. Zagat Survey, has announced the results of its recently completed survey of 1,265 bars, lounges, clubs and pubs in the Big Apple. The 2007/2008 New York City Nightlife survey was conducted on ZAGAT.com with input from 6,121 loyal, late-night partygoers, 75% of whom are in their 20s and 30s. On average, the participants go out two times per week (collectively 640,000 nights per year) and consume roughly 3 drinks during a typical night out.

Zagat Survey CEO Tim Zagat stated "With the average drink now costing $10.12, 7% more than last year, and a host of hot new nightlife meccas, it's obvious the nightlife industry is pouring big bucks into the local economy; still, there are signs that things may be cooling as 36% of surveyors say they are going out less often while only 18% say they are going out more."

News-Making Neighborhoods: If you're looking for the scene to be seen in, it's no surprise: Downtown remains New York's hottest nightlife destination. The East Village had the most new arrivals in the past year: Against the Grain, Big Lug, Bamn! Boucaru, Bowery Hotel Bar, Boysroom, Curious Purple, Death & Co., 40C, Grape and Grain, Midway, Royale, Ten Degrees and Village Pourhouse. The Lower East side continues to grow as well, welcoming Marshall Stack, Nurse Bettie, 205 Club and arguably the most talked-about newcomer, The Box, a club that's one part Folies Bergere, one part Living Theater - and a door policy that's as tough as they come. Indicating the diversity of the city's nightlife, Top Rated Newcomers come from every neighborhood: The Gramercy Park Hotel is home to New York City's Top Rated Newcomer, Jade Bar (Gramercy), followed by Tenjune (Meatpacking), Union Hall (Park Slope), Rose Bar (Gramercy) and Chinatown Brasserie (NoHo).

West Chelsea: It seems as though the boozers, bankers, bottles and models crowd along Club Row on West 27th Street have been given "last call." The overblown block party drew both police and traffic barricades - the ultimate party foul, ergo the mega-clubs BED and Spirit have closed, while West Chelsea veterans Cain and Bungalow 8 are watching their steps. In a possible reaction to West 27th Street's implosion, party animals and celebutants alike have migrated to smaller, off-the-beaten-path spots like The Anchor, Beatrice Inn, Death & Co., GoldBar and Rose Bar.

Music Hall Merry-Go-Round: Given the ever-changing nightlife scene, losses are inevitable, perhaps most prominently, the Roxy, but also five indie music halls: CBGB's, Northsix, Rothko, Sin-e and Tonic. However, seven new venues have stepped up in their place: the Gramercy Theatre, Highline Ballroom, Luna Lounge, the imminent Music Hall of Brooklyn, Rebel, Studio B and the United Palace. Top rated among the established live music venues are Nublu, Joe's Pub, Bowery Ballroom, Beacon Theatre and Rockwood Music.

Vin-ues Grow: This has also been a big year for wine bars, with a record eleven new arrivals including Barcibo Enoteca, Bin No. 220, Blue Ribbon Downing Street Bar, Centovini, Grape and Grain, Monday Room, Pudding Stones, Ten Degrees, Tini, Wine & Roses and Wined Up. When asked what they typically drink during the week, 44% of respondents reported wine as their top choice - suggesting that there is staying power in the wine bar trend.

Weekend Cocktails: On the weekend it appears that drinking behavior changes with most surveyors (55 %) switching to mixed drinks - up from 16% on weekdays. Bottle service [buying an entire bottle of liquor to secure a table], is "worth trying" and a "fun way to party" for 25% of surveyors, but 65% consider it "a rip-off." This issue may soon be obsolete since the City Council is considering banning the practice all together.

Food Too: Showing that Zagat surveyors have grown accustomed to having food with their drinks, 77% of respondents say they expect the best bars, clubs and lounges in New York City to serve food. And when asked what they typically do after a night on the town, 46% say they grab a bite somewhere. Apparently going home with a doggie bag beats going home alone.

This year's Winners: