Angel’s Share 8 Stuyvesant St. Tucked away in an unassuming Japanese restaurant in the East Village, the smoky, dim-lighted speakeasy-style parlor boasts an atmosphere reminiscent of the Jazz Age, complete with polished wood tables, heavy drapes, damask wallpaper and warm wood paneling. Bring a date or bring your friends (just limit the party to a mellow four) for an intimate night of sophisticated, epicurean cocktails. I recommend Charlie Brown (dessert cocktail), Smoke in Your Eyes (flaming whiskey), Serenity (one word: lychee-cello) or Sleepy Rum (lavender-infused rum with lemon). The weekend swarm slows down service, but sit tight (mind the no standing policy), splurge on a memorable cocktail and revel in the fact that the party won’t be raided any time soon. I won’t tell you how to find it, of course—that’s half the fun. Sasha Henriques
Prosperity Dumplings 46 Eldridge St. If you can discern this hole-in-the-wall shop amongst Chinatown’s throngs of red and yellow awnings, you are one step closer an economic epiphany of prolific proportions. If there was ever a commodity that shattered your theory of value (I’m looking at you, Marx), it might be Prosperity’s 100-piece frozen dumplings ($15!). This affordable find is the stuff of urban legends and the savior of college budgets. But, keep in mind these few simple guidelines. First and foremost, if you’re not getting dumplings (five for a dollar), buns or pancakes, then you’re doing it wrong. Fried is better than boiled, get extra sauce, and, most importantly, always order your food to go. Stella Louise