I've been going to the Parkside since I arrived in nyc about a year ago. I take all my friends there regularly and I've yet to find someone who didn't instantly love the vibe. It's completely unpretentious, yet genuinely cool. Table-top pac-man, foosball, a pool table, and an internet jukebox in the front are more than enough to keep you entertained. And the back room hosts live music every night. If you like bluegrass they have a Monday night series with the best local bluegrass bands around, plus nationally touring acts. On other nights you can find top-notch Indie-rock, alt-country, and even comedy back there. The drinks are super cheap by nyc standards, $3 Pabst on tap??! Can't beat that. I've seen lots of famous actors and comedians checking out the bands and hanging out at the bar, but nobody bothers them because everyone is too busy having a good time themselves. The Parkside is one of the last remaining true lower-east side bars, definitely check it out
Pros: fun, affordable, great music
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