NASSAU
K.Pacho
(516) 358-2222, New Hyde Park
http://www.kpacho.com
Newly revamped and recently unveiled, K.Pacho has the flavor and style of a true restaurant contender. Jay Grossman transformed his spacious venue, previously TWO Steak and Sushi Den, into a crimson tequila bar and restaurant. K.Pacho’s “Killer Margaritas” are always flowing and the vast, candlelit interior comfortably accommodates Long Islanders looking for a spin-off of traditional Mexican cuisine, while also catering to those patrons with highly-selective tequila taste buds. The walls are repurposed barn wood and brick, and the ceiling displays exposed beams, hanging red lights and chandeliers. Tall, wooden communal tables are sandwiched between the extensive bar and dining tables, and a massive gargoyle welcomes (or frightens) patrons upon entering. This eclectic ambiance matches the varied, 80s, classics and top-40 soundtrack. Start the weekend off right with their $5 margarita and cocktail specials from 4-7pm. DJ entertainment starts at 5pm.
SUFFOLK
Jewel
(631) 755-5777, Melville
http://www.jewelrestaurantli.com
Tom Schaudel’s newest masterpiece, Jewel, has his fingerprints all over it. With fine, expressive details like aesthetically-pleasing menus and pop-influenced paintings on the wall, the restaurateur’s passion for diverse cuisine and fine wine is clear. Located on the first floor of the newly built Rubie Corporate Plaza, Jewel is quite the gem. Everything about Jewel seems to sparkle. A glistening backdrop of colored tiles covers the lounge wall and white marble featuring engravings of wine selections fronts the bar. The stunning lounge glows with surreal upside-down lamps and an illuminated floor that beckons dancers. Schaudel, a loyal Long Islander, takes pride in offering the finest selection from local vineyards on Jewel’s extensive wine list. Tasty cocktails reflect the gemstone theme, including the White Opal, mixed with Malibu rum, white Godiva liqueur and caramel drizzle, or the delicious Diamond Dust cosmo with Stoli Ohranj, Cointreau, lime juice and white cranberry juice.
NYC
The Stanton Social
(212) 995-0099, Manhattan
http://www.stantonsocial.com
The Stanton Social is worth the price and the grab-a-drink-at-the-bar wait. This scenester LES spot is the leader for mouthwatering, shareable small plates and one-of-a-kind potions. Social created what may be the most clever dish ever—French onion soup dumplings. These bold morsels, loaded with slow-cooked onions and delicious beef broth, are flash fried and served in an escargot dish with bubbling Gruyère layered on top. Tasty beverage remedies include the cucumber-vanilla cosmopolitan with white cranberry and fresh lime or the Brooklyn lemonade with gin, lemon juice, muddled cucumber and ginger beer. Join the social event of the week at Stanton on Social Monday. Upstairs becomes a lounge, while a DJ spins the best dance beats. Cheers to a night that is often disregarded—Monday is the new funday.