New York's Best Off-The-Wall Date Spot 2008

A wine store whose mission is to popularize New York wines.

Reviews:

• “Delightful classes, classy wines”
• “a waste of time”
• “Bad, bad service”
• “Fun”
• “Great night out”

Tips: If you’re on the Upper West Side, head to its sister location on Broadway.

Vintage New York – Soho or email Vintage New York – Soho

Williamsburg performance-space and restaurant breathes new life into “dinner and a movie.”

Reviews:

• “Seriously to be avoided”
• “Fun place”
• “boo”
• “Monkeytown must have changed their tune”
• “great place for a large gathering!”

Tips: Thursday through Saturday usually requires a reservation, and cover charge may run about $10, not including the cost of food; the reservation itself is free and admission fees are paid at the door.

Monkey Town

Public transportation’s multifaceted story is detailed at the Court Street subway station.

Reviews:

• “Best architectural exhibits in town!!!”
• “Old Terminal Full Of History”

New York Transit Museum

Ever heard bowling described as hip?

Reviews:

• “BITE & BOWL WITH THE LADIES”
• “Fantastic!”
• “Overpriced!”
• “Reservation Policy”
• “Awesome birthday!”

Tips: If pool is more your thing, try the connected Pressure Lounge, with 21 tables and a spacious bar.

Bowlmor Lanes or email Bowlmor Lanes

A casual cafe devoted to a favorite childhood treat.

Reviews:

• “Peanut Butter reigns supremely creamy”
• “best peanut butter”
• “Overpriced with unpleasant staff”
• “cute, comforting sandwiches”
• “Really, very bad”

Tips: Staff will cut the crusts off at no extra charge.

Peanut Butter & Co

Fly high above the Hudson River at this unique outdoor school.

Reviews:

• “Beware the Cancellation Policy & Very Sick Guests”
• “So much fun!”

Tips: You can book online at the school’s website. Group classes are $47-$65, in addition to a $22 registration fee for all first-time students.

Trapeze School of New York

Annie get your gun! Nestled between the Chelsea art galleries and the Flatiron office buildings, a shooting range frequented by hunters, cops, and general gun enthusiasts.

Reviews:

• “This is my rifle…”
• “Annie Oakley”

West Side Rifle & Pistol Range

Where writers unite, under the influence of martinis and words.

Reviews:

• “Average bar”
• “A favorite, but call ahead….”

Tips: Catch free fiction readings on Sundays, poetry on Mondays and non-fiction on Tuesdays; plus other readings on most Wednesday and Thursdays. All readings last from 7pm to 9pm; check the online calendar for a schedule of upcoming events.

KGB Bar