This bar is quintessential New York. I like a bar that has an eclectic mix and Stay is certainly that. I've been there a dozen times in the past 3 years and the crowd is always diverse; just what you would expect on the lower east side of Manhattan. Maybe it's because the owners are so diverse themselves. One is Filipino/Polish American, one Thai American and the other American/American (the one with the "body"). I've been there when the mix was African American and Asian American and another time I was there when the crowd seemed to be half Un-American and European. Another time I stopped by for a quick drink and it was like I was in New York Model heaven. One of the interesting aspects is how the crowd changes from early evening to late night. I really like the music for the same reason. It is always different so I suspect they have a diverse group of DJ's. In any case, these three owners must be doing something right cause the place is still going strong for at least 3 years that I know of. (A rare thing in a city where bars seem to open and close on a moments notice). I'm an uptown guy but when I head downtown for dinner I like stopping by here before or after I eat. In these tough economic times STAY lounge is here to stay.
Pros: Great mix of people
Cons: Can be crowded at times
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