We'll be in Manhattan for a day and a half next week, and have reservations for dinner at the River Cafe. Decided against theater tickets, as we felt it would be too rushed of an evening. Any recommendations about areas or specific spots to go after dinner for dessert and/or drinks? We'll be fairly dressed up (jacket/tie, dress) due to dinner. Should I relax my prejudice against (so often characterless) hotel bars? Thanks.

Yes, you should relax your prejudice, especially since some of the hippest bars to open in the last couple of years are at hotels (especially the newer, boutique-type hotels).

But, my suggestion is more "classic" New York in light of your dress. How about the bar at the Plaza Hotel (forget its name -- Oak Room, maybe?) It's a real institution. For incredibly expensive drinks, but a fabulous outdoor patio with great view, try the bar at the Peninsula Hotel.

For something a little hipper, I like the bar at the W Hotel Union Square.

HTH!

Even though it might sound kind of "touristy," my husband and I really enjoyed having drinks at the View Lounge atop the Mariott Marquis on Times Square. The view was really great and their specialty martini's weren't too shabby either.

Have dessert at the River Cafe. Then go out for drinks.

Hi Thomas...The Inn at Irving Place is a wonderful place for dessert and drinks...the afternoon tearoom there is named Lady Mendl's, but during the evening its known as Lady Mendl's After Dark and they serve gorgeous and delicious desserts and cordials...also on the premises is the Cibar Lounge, where you can have a "designer" martini or any other drink you may like...both rooms are stylish and elegant...terrific ambience...call (212)533-4466 for reservations and information about Lady Mendl's After Dark...it's located at 56 Irving Place (Gramercy Park area) between 17 & 18th Streets. I highly recommend it.

How about the bar/lounge at the Chambers Hotel (very chic) 15 West 56th or the bar/lounge at the Tribeca Grand

Sorry... posted pre-maturely... Tribeca Grand is located at 2 Ave. of the Americas right by White St., I believe. The Top of the Penninsula is always great as well.

I think that the Soho Grand Hotel has a pretty nice bar,very hip.And the Mercer?

Merilee thanks for the information about Lady Mendl's after dark--I live right around there and didn't know about it!!