Coming to NY for girls night out- we are all married and in our late 20's early 30's. Splurging and staying at the Manadarin Oriental.

Looking for a fun spot to have appetizers and drinks late night on a Saturday (around 10:30). Considering Spice Market- is this still a hip spot? Looking for good food- but in a trendy, fun atmosphere. Probably going to do more of a bunch of appetizers versus entrees (3 course dinner). Anywhere else you would prefer?

What are some of the hip spots for drinks afterwards?

Also, need a great lunch spot in village or Soho.

Your lunch spot should be Balthazar.

I love Spice Market. How trendy it is right now though, I couldn't say. I like it for its wonderful atmosphere and great offerings.

Spice Market sound perfect for your group. It also works out that you would like to eat dinner later in the evening. It's difficult to get a reservation before 10 on a peak night, so it sounds like a good match. The food is Asian street food, so it's easy to order a bunch of small things. There's plenty to do in the neighborhood after dinner, or you can hang out and have drinks in the downstairs lounge.
Agree with Balthazar for lunch - make sure you have a reservation well in advance!

I really enjoy Divine Bar, and have recommended it on this board before. It's known for an extensive tapas menu and wine list, and is the perfect place for sharing several appetizers (try the baked Brie- delicious!). There are many options for beer and drinks, but I really enjoy the "wine flights"- 2 oz. samples of a few different wines grouped together, such as California whites, Rieslings, etc.

There are two locations, both in Midtown (one east side, one west). The west side location is a bit more lounge-like, with a Moroccan feel to it. Think cozy couches, etc. The east side location is more "Old New York," with exposed brick walls.

I don't know that Divine Bar would be considered "THE" trendy place (probably not!) but it's a great atmosphere, fun for a group, and even somewhat affordable.

http://divinebar.citysearch.com/

You might also consider Stanton Social if you want to venture to the Lower East Side.

That reference to Divine Bar is interesting. I live down the street and have NEVER heard of it!!! And I have lived in this neighborhood for many years. Have to take a look later today.

Spice Market was hip about two years ago. If hip is want you want, your group should go elsewhere.

What size place interests you? If you're thinking huge/loud, then Buddakan or Morimoto are both perfect.

Tapas or small plates? Check out Aspen, with its ski lodge atmosphere.

If you like "hidden" hip, I have two suggestions -- the very cool, subterranean La Esquina and Freeman's, which can be found (if you're lucky) at the end of an alley. If you choose either of these options, be sure to call for very specific directions/instructions.

Late night drinks afterwards? Well, if you go to Freeman's, you can walk to Balthazar, which usually has a fun, diverse vibe after midnight.

Keep in mind that Manhattan has literally thousands of eating/drinking options, so it's difficult to narrow down without really specific info.

Enjoy!

Tarheels, tell me more about Divine. We are always looking for tapas and wine type places for post theatre and the west 54th one will be only four blocks from our rental apartment. Reservations? Fairly easy to get into about 11 weeknights, or will we be starving to death waiting in line?

Also good for a cocktail before the show (7 ish)?

What is hip right now- for appetziers and drinks? Buddakan and Morimoto are out- we are from Philly and have been to the originals.

I have never made a reservation, and haven't waited more than 30-45 minutes. However, I do know that they take reservations, so for peak times you might want them. 11 on a weeknight and you might be just fine.

I have never been for cocktails only, so I can't comment on that. I don't think it's quite fast enough for drinks and a quick bite pre-theatre though. I can tell you that at least in the East Side location (memory is fuzzy on the West), the bar is located downstairs, and the tables and couches on the second floor. This can make it a bit easier to get just a drink.

Perhaps in Philadelphia. But here in New York, brand new Buddakan and Morimoto are #1 on many people's lists. Both are gigantic assaults on the senses, both are in Chelsea.

(I've had the "angry lobster" at the Phily Buddakan -- maybe one of the best dishes I've had outside Manhattan.)

ekscrunchy, do be sure to check it out! The place was recommended to me by friends, and has never let me down. It's become a place I take out-of-towners for a "cool New York" experience. As I said, I don't know that it's cutting-edge or would make a top 10 trendy list (that's not really my style) but I've always enjoyed it.