What's the best area in Manhattan for going out at night? Not really into clubbing but like busy, trendy bars.

I am a big fan of the area on the mid-east side, around 2nd and 50th. Can't recall the names of all the bars, but there is alot to choose from. These are not dance clubs, but rather more neighborhoody places. I wouldn't really call them "trendy", though. You might find more of that down around the Village.

It's an impossible question unless you provide what age group, atmosphere, price range, etc. you are looking for. Preppy, hipster, suits, mainstream, alternative, etc.? That said, the Lower East Side and Meatpacking District are both neighborhoods that fit the description of busy and trendy.

While you wait for the NYC experts to reply, check out www.worldsbestbars.com for info on trendy bars, in NYC and around the world. (I like the way readers sometimes disagree VERY strongly with editor picks and aren't shy of telling them why.) Has pictures and lists the bar's web site if it has one.

Speaking as a TOTAL NYC tourist, I liked the bar inside Gr Central Station overlooking the open lobby.

Manhattan has several "best areas," depending on what you're looking for.

"Dive" bars? East Village. Walk east on St. Mark's Place, stopping along the way, then turn north on Avenue A and end your night at Hi-Fi.

Trendy "casual" bars? Lower East Side. Many to choose from.

Avoid midtown, avoid Times Square.