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More About Vessel:

Don't believe you can hide in plain sight? Think again. Take a turn down an alley in Union Square and find yourself at subterranean boutique lounge, Vessel.

Even though it's in a place that usually screams "notice me," this lounge is decidedly modest. (Think swank not snobby.) Owners and golden boys Philippe Rieser of New York's Cielo and San Fran's own Sunwoo Hwang, DJ and nightlife consultant (with a resume of event production for Ruby Skye and the W Hotel) enlisted the help of Stephane Dupoux to transform this once barren basement into a neutral-hued haven. Think buttery leather banquettes, communal teak tables (with built-in iceboxes boasting LED colored lights), and fabric covered walls.

Although Rieser and Hwang shun discriminating door policies, they still maintain a plush place to sip and socialize. Ya know, by keeping drunken revelers at bay and gearing the place towards locals and tourists. Stop in after work or a day of shopping. Either way you'll be well received.

Our tips

Fun meet-up spot for after-work sips and bar snacks