PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Head back to the days of jazz and the prohibition at Flatiron Lounge (27 West 19th St). This popular jaunt in the flatiron district has a fantastic menu of cocktails that are each made with lots of tlc. The art deco interior and club room setting made me feel like the Rat Pack would be bursting through the doors at any moment. Don't be intimidated by it's hip décor, you'll fit in and feel at home with the affable staff and great crowd.

Every bartender has their favorite specialty drink – and so do the regulars. My pick? The Metropolis. It tastes like a Granny Smith but it isn't sweet – it's the perfect blend of apple and vodka. The atmosphere is very hip where the young and trendy like to hang out – though the crowd is mixed. For example, Flatiron Lounge is a place where you can take your visiting parents or a cousin who's still in college – and all parties would appreciate its vintage vibe. Bartenders are dressed like it's the roarin' 20's – all in black with dapper ties tucked into their shirts. The rest of the crowd is dressed, well, cool.

Weekends are usually packed but it's never hard to get attention from the bar staff. If you have to wait a few minutes for another drink, they'll let you know – and send you a water to hold you over. An average drink will set you back around $12 – but it's completely worth it. If you're a true martini lover, this place is your dream come true. Sample one of the martini flights where you'll get to try three mini martinis in a common flavor theme. This cocktail lounge should be a must on every visitors (or New Yorker's) list.