Dorian Gray

Lit buffs will appreciate the 100 portraits of big-name authors hanging in antique frames at this Alphabet City dive—name 15 of the famous faces and earn a house beer. Even if trivia isn't your specialty, pull up to the copper-topped bar and sip on book-themed drinks, like the vodka-based Dorian Gray martini or the Truman Capote, a blend of champagne, apple schnapps, lime and mint. The communal oak tables offer a motley crew of drinkers space to schmooze or tuck into gastropub fare (shepherd's pie, jalapeño mac and cheese).