The Boiler Room is a local bar that is best for meeting friends for a few drinks in the neighborhood, then moving on to a more exciting spot. The music is funky 80s and 90s with a more recent tune (mixed, of course) thrown in for good measure.

Now that absinthe is legal again in the States, you can get an authentic flaming shot for about $10, served by friendly and attentive bartenders. The decor is basic to say the least, with a pool table in the rear, several small pub tables and stools for setting drinks. This is no posh or lavish place, not much bigger than a high school classroom.

The boys appear from the local East Village area and were friendly and cute, with a good mix of ages and races, with one or two women keeping the guys company. The bar is a good stop on the way to somewhere else or to end a quiet evening before heading home.