A Trifecta of NYC Kentucky Derby Viewing Parties

Saturday May 4th will be the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. The "most famous two minutes in sport" unites classic fashion style, 19th century cocktails, gambling, and an age-old sport of kings in a quintessentially American event. The fellows suited up in seersucker, ladies in elegant straw hats, bourbon mint juleps in icy tins, and wagers on a long shot to win are a tradition. For loungers, it is a friggin' national holiday and expect us to be celebrating in full regalia, julep chalice in hand, at our favorite watering holes!

This Derby Day we recommend the grand daddy of mint julep variations adapted by historian David Wondrich from a recipe in an 1857 edition of Harper's Weekly and trifecta of authentic Derby viewing parties in New York City for the win!

Prescription Julep

1 1/2 oz of Cognac (VSOP or better)

1/2 oz Rye Whisky

1/4 oz of rich simple syrup

8-10 mint leaves

Tools: Julep chalice, jigger, bar spoon

Gently rub the mint leaves on the inside of the julep tin and discard. Add cognac, rye and rich simple and stir mixture gently. Fill cup with crushed ice and garnish with mint sprigs. Insert sterling silver straw in between mint sprigs.

Maison Premiere - 2nd Annual Derby Party featuring Four Roses Bourbon

12pm-8pm

Julep master Maxwell Britten and his crew of dapper drink slingers will be throwing one hell of a pre-race BBQ in Maison Premiere's backyard. Icy platters of oysters will be plentiful and an extensive menu of mint juleps served in silver beaded tins will be available. The Maison Premiere House Band starts at 3pm and goes to 7pm. This year there will be a fashion contest for the most Derby outfit. Prizes range from booze (hurrah!) to $100 gift certificates! The Derby will also be broadcast live on the cocktail den’s famous old-fashioned radio from 6:28 to 6:30.

Maison Premiere - 298 Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg, Brooklyn - 347-335-0446

Clover Club - 4th Annual Kentucky Derby Party featuring Bulleit Bourbon

4:30pm-8pm

Bulleit Bourbon will provide complementary passed hors d' oeuvres and mint juleps. Mixtresses Elayne Duke and Julie Reiner set up shop in the front of Clover Club with their julep bar again this year. They encourage guests to sport fancy hats, seersucker suits, and crank out juleps for all. Oh yeah, there will be a very short horse race shown;) Don't miss it!

Clover Club - 210 Smith Street, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn - 718-855-7939

Rum House - Derby Day Party featuring Larceny bourbon specials

5pm-7pm

The gang at Rum House breaks out the julep cups, crushed ice, and copious amounts of mint and partner with Heaven Hill  Distilleries' new Larceny Bourbon for $8 Julep and Old Fashioned drink specials. Come watch the race live on the big screen with Larceny bourbon cocktails. There will be food. There will be fancy hats. And there will be ponies.

The Rum House at the Edison Hotel - 228 West 47th Street, New York, NY  - 646-490-6924

Our trifecta picks for the 139th Kentucky Derby are All Other Three Ye (5:1) to win, Verrazano (6:1) to place, and Goldencents (7:1) to show!

Destinations: Japan Week In New York March 4 - 21

Loungers who are inspired by the Japanese culture should not miss this year's Japan Week which will take place between March 4th and 18th in New York City. 35 restaurants will participate and feature local and regional dishes inspired by 21 Japanese prefectures to create a "culinary tour" of Japan.  Many will be serving them in special "ekiben" bento boxes that are traditionally sold at Japanese railway stations. Their prices range from $12 to $25. Japan Week will culminate with a cultural fair in Grand Central Station's Vanderbilt Hall from March 19th - 21st.

The following is a list participating Japanese restaurants in Manhattan: Aburiya Kinnosuke, Aki on West 4th, Blue Ribbon Sushi, Cha-An, CURRY-YA, Donguri, Greenwich Grill, Go Go Curry, Hakata Tonton, Hakubai / Kitano Hotel, Hasaki, Hatsuhana, High-Collar, Kubo-chan Ramen, Kyotofu, Marumi, Megu Midtown, Misoya, Ootoya, Rai Rai Ken, Restaurant Nippon, Robataya, Ronin, Sakagura, Sake Bar Decibel, Shimizu, Soba Koh, Soba-ya, Sunrise Mart, Sushi Ann, Sushi Azabu, Sushiden Madison Ave., Sushiden 6th Ave., Tori Shin and Wasan.  Additional details on the menu items and pricing will be posted to japanweek.us.

Also new this year, diners will be encouraged to post photos to Japan Week's Facebook page of the dishes and drinks they enjoy at the participating restaurants, along with a short essay of why they'd like to visit Japan.  The winning essay's writer will win a round-trip ticket to Japan!

Please get out there and get your umami on!

Destinations: The Salon - Mardi Gras at the DL Feb 12th

Loungerati's choice destination for your krewe's Mardi Gras fun is The Salon's swank event at the DL Lounge. Here is the skinny from nightlife impresario Patrick Soluri: " The Big Easy comes to the Big Apple on Fat Tuesday, courtesy of THE SALON! Our creole carnival features a spectacular lineup of more than 25 performers (incl. 3 bands & 3 DJs), for your lounging 'n dancing pleasure...plus we've got Mardi Gras beads for every dame & dapper gent. For those craving more Nawlins, bring an appetite 'cause we've got the crawfish cookin! THE DL's fab chef is preparing a special Cajun 3 course Prix-fixe menu at the restaurant on the first floor... we'll keep your toes tappin to live music during dinner, then head upstairs for two more floors of live music, dancing, lounging and imbibing from some of the top talent in town." featuring Live Music by GRAND STREET STOMPERS traditional dixieland & New Orleans-style jazz septet on the 3rd floor with GORDON AU and vocalist TAMAR KORN. on the 2rd floor "Red Room" with BABY SODA JAZZ BAND New Orleans jazz & 30's era swing - developed by hobos, perfected by science! Featuring EMILY ASHER and BRIA SKONBERG. on the 1st floor for dinner, lounging and dancing JESSY CAROLINA AND THE HOT MESS featuring "Blind Boy" Paxton DANDY WELLINGTON Master of Ceremonies and Emcee Extraordinaire burlesque by LEGS MALONE GAL FRIDAY Specialty Craft Cocktails menu featuring New Orleans classics from: CLAUDIA SCHUMACHER (from Lucy's Lounge & LUPEC) -------------------------- THE DL - 95 Delancey Street (Corner of Delancey St & Ludlow St) New York, NY F/J/M/Z subway to Delancey/Essex or B/D to Grand St. 21+ (ID required) for 2nd & 3rd Floor Under 21 allowed on 1st floor only -------------------------- **TICKETS** GENERAL ADMISSION $25 - Advance Ticket (online) $30 - At the Door (cash only) General Admission tickets include dance lesson, Mardi Gras beads and access to all floors. -------------------------- for more info and tickets, please visit:http://www.thesalon.biz/

THE SALON: 5th Annual New Year's Eve Eve Party

The place to be this Sunday December 30th is THE SALON's 5th annual NEW YEAR'S EVE EVE party. This year, the Salon continues the tradition with another spectacular lineup of more than 40 performers for your lounging and dancing pleasure! 

This year's venue is THE DL, an elegant new club built into two brownstones that were combined to create a beautiful three floor venue, each featuring its own bar and dance floor, plus the huge rooftop lounge even has a separate outdoor smoking area... bring your cigars and pipes!

Live Music by:

** The 3rd floor features live music by:

THE GEORGE GEE SWING ORCHESTRA
featuring vocalist John Dokes

QUEEN ESTHER & THE HOT FIVE
Grand Prize Winner, Jazzmobile Vocal Competition, 2008

plus
DJ VaVaVoon Spinning tunes to keep ya dancing all night

** The 2nd floor is all about the blues in the gorgeous "Red Room" with DJ FLOUER (from Friday Night Blues)...

and live music by 
RON SUNSHINE & BAND

** The Hot-Jazz 1st floor featuring
GELBER & MANNING The feuding vaudeville lovebirds. 

THE RED HOOK RAMBLERSDixieland Hot Jazz

MIKE “the barber” HAAR of the Ragged Phonograph Program
Spinning 1920’s hot-jazz & dance

**The Salon also proudly presents**

THE MINSKY SISTERSThe '20's Tap Dancing Sensation

DANDY WELLINGTON Master of Ceremonies and Emcee Extraordinaire

burlesque by
MEDIANOCHE
HAZEL HONEYSUCKLE

Plus, our lovely Go-Go dancers and Stage Kittens
STELLA CHUU
SYDNEY SUNRISE
MISS KACIE MARIE

FREE Beginner swing dance lesson from 7:30-8pm by
ARTURO PEREZ
The NYEE Salon tradition continues with Radishes for dapper gents by MICHAEL INGBAR

The Salon's signature commitment is equal billing for quality performances, dancing, AND cocktail culture. In that spirit of bon vivant, Loungerati is honored to be included in The Salon's 2012 NYEE party as their in house cocktailian along side award winning bartender ERYN REECE of Mayahuel!

THE SALON: New Year's Eve Eve
Sunday, December 30th, 2012
DL Lounge
95 Delancey Street
(Corner of Delancey St & Ludlow St) New York, NY
Doors open at 7pm with live music from 7:00pm to 1:30am
21+ (ID required)

TICKETS
* General Admission
$25 - Advance Tickets (online)
$30 - At the Door (cash only)

* VIP Tickets
$100 - Advance Tickets (online)
$110 - At the Door (cash only)VIP Tickets - Two hour premium top-shelf open bar from 8-10pm. Skip the line at the door, and gain exclusive access to VIP-Only area, with cocktail tables, seating and more. Limited availability. Food not included.

* All Ticket sales will be capped to prevent overcrowding.
* Early-Bird discounted ticket sale ended on Dec 16th.
* All advance ticket sales end Sunday Dec 30th at 12 noon.

Destinations: The Salon Celebrates Bastille Day - Friday, July 13th

Loungerati is teaming up with Prohibition Productions to celebrate the storming of the Bastille with a very special Salon called Pièce de Résistance. Musical acts will feature swing music, blues, and DJ'd jazz. In between the main acts, burlesque provocateurs will evoke the best of the Moulin Rouge with naughty can-can numbers. Meanwhile, Fredo from Loungerati will serve craft Parisian themed cocktails from the main bar.

Here is the skinny:

THE SALON at Rebel NYC
Friday July 13, 2012
Doors open at 7:30pm / Party till late

Featuring:

THE HOT SARDINES
Live music and dancing on the main dance floor (8-11pm)

THE GORDON WEBSTER BLUES QUARTET
late night blues sets (11:30pm-2am+)

DJs & dancing in a dedicated blues room with
FRIDAY NIGHT BLUES
special thanks to Blues Dance New York

sultry burlesque by
MEDIANOCHE
HAZEL HONEYSUCKLE

stage kitten:
SYDNEY SUNRISE

craft cocktails created and prepared by
FREDO from Lougerati.com

hosted by
MC DANDY WELLINGTON

Dance Performance by
PAOLO & LOLLIPOP

FREE SWING DANCE LESSON
Intro swing lesson by Arturo Perez from 7:45 to 8:15pm.

FLOUER from Friday Night Blues will offer blues dance lesson, from 8 - 10 pm ($10 extra). Lesson will be on the first floor in the performance hall.

Radishes for dapper gents provided by
MICHAEL INGBAR

REBEL NYC
251 West 30th St
(off of 8th Ave) New York, NY
21+ (ID required for entry)

$12 - Early Bird Tickets *sale ended*
$16 - Advance Tickets (online only)
$20 - At the Door (cash only)

Tickets and more info at:
http://www.thesalon.biz/july13.htm

No dress code... though we encourage everyone to dress up, and dress vintage with a Parisian twist!

Happy Independence Day America!!! Celebrate at the Liberty Belle Spectacular!

Today July 4th, marks the 236th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence by the Founding Fathers of the United States of America. Though the country is as divided as ever when it comes to political, economic, and social perspectives, we all come together today to celebrate the great things about the country and being American.

In New York City, Loungers will be flaunting their patriotic pride at the Liberty Belle Spectacular at the Empire Hotel rooftop bar and lounge.  Expect lots of seersucker and linen suits on the fellas and colorful vintage cocktail dresses on the gals. This collaboration between the producers of Club Wit's End, The Salon, The Champagne Riot, and Dances of Vice is in its third year and promises to be the place to party and enjoy the fireworks going off above the Hudson River.  Once again, The Salon's Cocktail Director Fredo from Loungerati will at the back bar serving out patriotic punch, Liberty Belle Bucks, and a Red, White, and Bourbon fix that is sure to quench your thirst!

This event was chosen by TimeOutNY as oe of their recommendations for Fourth of Juy Events and is SOLD OUT as of this morning!!

Here is the lowdown from the Liberty Belle gang:

DANCES OF VICE, THE SALON, THE CHAMPAGNE RIOT, and WIT'S END join forces to present another unforgettable vintage Fourth of July extravaganza! Join us on the rooftop of the Empire Hotel for live music, burlesque, da...ncing, fireworks, and delicious cocktails under the stars!

THE THIRD ANNUAL LIBERTY BELLE SPECTACULAR - A VINTAGE FOURTH OF JULY ROOFTOP EXTRAVAGANZA

Live music by GELBER & MANNING AND THE STAR SPANGLED ORCHESTRA

EDDIE CLENDENING & HIS BLUE RIBBON BOYS from the hit Broadway Show MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

MONA'S HOT FOUR
w/TAMAR KORN

Scintillating Burlesque by
GIN MINSKY
JEZEBEL EXPRESS
GAL FRIDAY
MISS EKATERINA
MEDIANOCHE

Plus....
MC DANDY WELLINGTON
ALBERT CADABRA
DJ SEI (Rebel Night)
DJ MOMOTARO

Guest Bartender
FREDO from Loungerati

Jump and swing to patriotic melodies from the 1930-40's by GELBER & MANNING AND THE STAR SPANGLED ORCHESTRA; red hot rockabilly by EDDIE CLENDENING & HIS BLUE RIBBON BOYS from the hit Broadway show "Million Dollar Quartet;" and Dixieland jazz by MONA'S HOT FOUR, featuring TAMAR KORN on vocals.

Our all-star program also features tap sensation GIN MINSKY, world class contortionist MISS EKATERINA, mesmerizing burlesque by JEZEBEL EXPRESS, GAL FRIDAY, and MEDIANOCHE; magic by The Great Deceiver ALBERT CADABRA; and our dapper MC DANDY WELLINGTON.

DJ'S SEI (Rebel Night)) and MOMOTARO keep you dancing all night, and delicious cocktails by guest bartender FREDO from Loungerati all on one of New York's most beautiful rooftop venues makes for a Fourth of July to remember!

Be crowned Mr & Mrs Liberty Belle, and win cool stuff! Judges will be observing incognito during the party! 

Dress Code: We celebrate the Fourth in vintage style, and we encourage our guests to do the same! Vintage & vintage-inspired cocktail looks from the 1920s-50s are encouraged, but not required. But please, men: no sneakers or shorts!

July 4, 2012
EMPIRE HOTEL ROOFTOP
44 West 63rd St, NYC
Doors at 5pm
21+ (ID required)

ADMISSION
$25 Early Bird *sale ended June 23rd*
$30 in advance (w/reserved admission time)
$35 at door (cash only)
$25 Group Tickets (for groups of 10 or more)

TICKETS & MORE INFO:
http://www.libertybellespectacular.com

Destinations: The Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival

Loungerati's Eff at the Easter Parade

The Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival is one of the last remaining authentic New York traditions. From the late-19th century until the 1950s, over one million people attended the annual event. Crowds may have thinned in this last half-century, but hardcore New Yorkers with penchants for ceremony and haberdashery keep it relevant.  Today, New Yorkers will put on their finest attire, sport creative head wear, and promenade up-and-down Fifth Avenue for several hours like Judy Garland and Fred Astaire. It is an informal amble, and any line between spectators and participants ebbs and flows like the Avenue's traffic.

From a lounge lifestyle-perspective, aficionados of vintage style hang up their tweeds and break-out fresh and found bright fashions. If you like to see boaters, seersucker, bonnets, poplin suits, bow ties, boutonnieres, and a glamorous, sartorial crowd, it is a must-attend event. Whether one is religious or not, the Easter Parade is treated by the city as its entrance to Spring. Jazz Age stalwarts such as Michael Arenella & The Dreamland Orchestra set up guerrilla performances in front the University Club. Lindy hoppers from the decade-old website and community, Yehoodi, show up with prepared routines as shutterbugs snap the whole scene. The New York Times photographer, Bill Cunningham, nips in and out the throng to spot those who'll grace next weekend's Sunday Styles section.

The Easter Parade runs from 10 a.m. through until 4 p.m. Gather in front of Rockefeller Center before making your way up to 57th Street, then stroll back down Fifth Avenue, and repeat! Once you are finished strutting your finest duds and headwear,head to these post parade destinations.

Since 1907, teetotalers have been getting their tea fix on at the traditional 4pm tea service Palm Court at the venerable Plaza Hotel (768 Fifth Avenue). The recent renovation has restored the 1,800 square foot stain glass sky light to its original grandeur. Linger for the savory snacks such as truffled quail egg sandwiches or freshly baked scones and gourmet pastries. It is a luxury indulgence and but worth the experience.

Thirsty parade goers should promenade over to King Cole Bar at the St. Regis Hotel (2 East 55^th Street at Fifth Avenue). This is birthplace of the Red Snapper, the predecessor of the Bloody Mary, which was invented in 1934. Order one with Gin (Beefeater or Plymouth) to get the authentic flavor of the era and quench that thirst under Maxfield Parrish's 30 foot long mural. Try to pick out John Jacob Astor in the painting and no the barkeeps won't give any hints.

Happy Easter from Loungerati!

Celebrate Your Constitutional Right to Have a Cocktail!! - Repeal Day 2011 Destinations

Loungerati's Fredo at Employees Only Repeal Day Party 2010

Repeal Day Destinations
In ten years, Repeal Day partying will stand shoulder to shoulder with Cinco de Mayo and other alcohol related holidays. Luckily, it is still in its infancy but growing stronger every year thanks to ongoing cocktail renaissance. So enjoy these rather intimate gatherings now before the amateurs take over!  Lastly, I want to make a toast to the an unlikely hero in this tale of repeal - The State of Utah! Utah was the final state that ratified the 21st Amendment repealing the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution on December 5, 1933. Cheers to Utah!

We recommend the following 4 destinations for proper celebrating!



1. 1534 Cocktail Bar - Repeal Day Party to Support Bottomless Closet
Zacapa Rum teams up LUPEC's New York chapter, and the 1534 fellas to support Bottomless Closet, an organization that helps disadvantaged NYC women with professional development, financial management and personal enrichment. No secret passwords to get in, instead bring an item to donate to the Accessories Drive. In return,  guests will be treated to pre-prohibition style drinks courtesy of Zapaca, food and music! Finest prohibition dress highly recommended.
 
1534 - 20 Prince Street, SoHo, New York - 7pm - 9:30pm


2. Clover Club - Annual Repeal Day Party
Hot 1920s jazz from Michael Aranella and his Dreamland Orchestra fills Brooklyn cocktail den Clover Club for this special party. Drink specials all night long sponsored by Plymouth gin. Naughty surprises from burlesque mavens Darlinda Just Darlinda and Peekaboo Pointe! Don't miss the easiest holiday of the year. No presents to buy, no pies to bake and no costumes to rent. Just legal good times!

Clover Club - 210 Smith Street, Brooklyn, New York - 8:30pm - 11:30pm

3.  Louis 649 Bar - Francine's Pink Room Repeal Day Party
Francine (aka singer/burlesque performer Franny Fluffer) returns to Louis 649 to celebrate Repeal Day - the 78th anniversary of Prohibition's Repeal. Expect a decadent evening of classic jazz, burlesque and mixology at intimate East Village cocktail stalwart Louis 649. In addition to the tantalizing teasing by Francine, patrons will be treated to performances from Medianoche and Sapphire Jones.There is no cover charge for this special event, however an RSVP - rsvp@louis649.com.

Louis 649 - 649 East 9th Street, East Village, New York - Doors open at 8pm, performance set at 9pm, 10pm, and 11pm, free admission with rsvp, $15 minimum per set

4. Employees Only - Annual Repeal Day Party
This legendary party is invitation only so if you have the luck to be an attendee, put on your sharpest suits or flapper dress and get ready to call in sick tomorrow to work. Employees Only has been celebrating since being named World's Best Cocktail Bar at Tales of the Cocktail. So expect this shindig to be over the top. Typically, the party include complimentary cocktails from the biggest booze sponsors. Last year guests were treated to Plymouth Gin drinks concocted by the stellar team behind the bar. Punches in monster tea cups, Southsides made to order, hot jazz, burlesque on the bar, tasty treats from the EO kitchen, and whose who of bar industry stopping by. 

Employees Only - 510 Hudson Street, West Village, New York - Private party

PS: Loungerati will be turning 5 years old. The group and blog were formed at a Repeal Day celebration in 2006. We will let the Repeal Day have its day and be celebrating Thursday December 8th at the Rum House in midtown!

(photo of Fredo by Gabi Porter for Metromix)

Destinations: Halloween Weekend 2011

Make Diane proud and make it Wit's End!

There are plenty of "lounge" worthy events this Halloween weekend. However, we suggest you head on over to these jazz age themed masquerades from our friends Michael Arenella in  and Wit's End, then cap it off at the Rhum Rhum Room (if you can get in).

SATURDAY OCTOBER 29, 2011

Wit's End: The Third Annual Black Cat Masquerade!

Flute - 205 W 54th St, NYC

8PM -11PM

$15 +21 years old

The Jazz Age is calling all flappers and Gents!

In honor of Wit's End founder, Miss Diane Naegel, Wit’s End, together with The Dorothy Parker Society, present The Third Annual "Black Cat Masquerade!" Our future is uncertain, and this may be the final Wit’s End, it’s certainly for 2011!

Celebrate Halloween of the 1920s and 1930s and join us for an evening of vintage cocktails, good company, and the return of Bliss Blood and the Moonlighters!

Come in your finest 1910s-1940s vintage/vintage-style Hallowe’en or evening attire to spend a night in vintage speakeasy style with us!

Free Dance Lesson will begin before the band goes on (approximately 8:45pm) from our pals Jeri Lynn Astra and Neal Groothuis!

Want a seat for the evening? Call and reserve a table for Wit's End! 212.265.5169

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2011

Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra present... SILVER SCREAM

8PM – 2AM
320 West 37th Street, 14th Floor, NYC
$50 - Open Bar!!! - Advance Tickets Only
Sponsored by Bootlegger 21 NY Vodka

A spook-studded soiree to conjure the starlets and spectres of the Silver Screen. Brush the cobwebs off your pearls and the creepy-crawlers out of your silk hat as we celebrate the bygone glamour and ghouls of the silent movie era. 

For your eyes: 

*Burlesque naughtiness by: 

Grace Gotham - Humour's Favorite Temptress

Tansy - The Elizabeth Taylor of Burlesque

Medianoche - The Spanish Sensation 

The Maine Attraction - Inimitable Mover and Shaker 

PLUS * film projections of silent horror movies! 

For your appetite: 

*premium bar featuring fabulous custom cocktails, wines and beers!

*hot gourmet hors d’oeuvres (complimentary with admission)

*fresh-popped popcorn, candy and other movie-house treats!(also complimentary with admission!)

*Proudly presenting custom cocktails designed by Fredo of loungerati.com and served by Nino Cirabisi of Brooklyn Social!*

And of course, dance and revel in the hot music of Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra! 

Hosted in a gorgeous midtown loft with a private roof terrace offering breathtaking birdseye views of the city and the Hudson River. This intimate and exclusive event has only 200 total tickets available,SilverScream.Eventbee.com!and are only available for advance purchase at

Admission: $50 ( includes hot gourmet hors d’oeuvres and movie-house treats!)

Open Bar

MONDAY OCTOBER 31, 2011

Here it is - the Halloween event you have been waiting for, Lani Kai's First Annual Mahaloween!
Lani Kai 525 Broome Street,NYC

Pirates and Wenches meet in well...a setting they were made for.

Tiki Mondays (Brian Miller) joins forces with the crew at Lani Kai for what hopes to be, in the words of Miller's first mate this week, Brad Farran - "EPIC!"

The Wenches (Julie & April) will be upstairs serving $8 Mai Tais to everyone in costume, along with several other tasty LK classics while downstairs your favorite Tiki Pirates will be slinging a Mahaloween inspired menu featuring the sponsor this week Partida Tequila. Not to worry, there will be plenty of mingling between wenches & pirates !!

There will also be a best costume contest, with a winner to be announced around 11pm. And as usual, Happy Hour will run from 6-8pm with 2 special cocktails for $6.50.

After the Lani Kai, keep the Tiki vibe going and head to New York's Famous Rhum Rhum Room in the West Village for their Annual Halloween Spooktacular!!

(Undisclosed location)

This party is by invitation only so if you are one of the lucky few to make past the bamboo and attack parrot, you will get to enjoy all sort of rum libations including the 1934 Zombie!

(photo of Diane Naegel courtesy of Don Spiro)

Esquivel Tribute and Documentary filming at PKNY Oct 11th

Breaking news from our pals Jack Fettterman and mucho mu-cha-cha Gina of the Jungle:

"Tuesday October 11,  Primativa in Hi-Fi presents a tribute to Juan Garcia Esquivel at PKNY and we want you to help show NYC's love for the E-man!'

Director Arturo R. Jiménez  (from Mexico) is working on a documentary on Esquivel! and his influence and the musicians, DJs and fans who help keep his music alive today. He will be attending our PKNY party on October 11th to film footage of Esquivel! fans in a NYC bar enjoying his music today.

Shooting is scheduled for 7:00 to 9:00 in the back room. PKNY will be open to the public, but only recipients of this invitation will know that they will be filmed ahead of time.

The drinks and music won’t be such a bad reason to come either. 

Zu zu zu zu zu zu zuuuuuuuuuu..

PK-NY
49 Essex St.
NYC

Bastille Day 2011 in NYC

Can Can Girls at Bastille Day Tribeca

Bastille Day in New York is chock full of great events. We prefer whats happening downtown  and recommend a Tricolor of pit stops for your revolutionary merriment! First, take a half day off from work and head to Tribeca around 2pm. West Broadway at Walker transforms into an outdoor celebration of French culture (circa 1920 of course)! Petanque, Can-Can Girls, hot jazz, foosball, and Ricard pastis is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Then head to the East Village for more jazz and Lost Generation festivities courtesy of Dandy Wellington and the Made to Measure Band. If you still have your head, cap it off with the green faerie at 1534 in SoHo with a plethora of Absinthe cocktails. Dance in the streets and don't forget to sing your heart our when La Marseillaise comes on! Allons enfants de la Patrie!!

Votre Itinéraire

2PM - BASTILLE DAY FESTIVAL IN TRIBECA

Loungerati favorites Michael Arenella & His Hot Eight perform hot jazz and Parisian standards for a French-style outdoor block party replete with Petanque games, pastis and pomme frites! -plus- the bawdy and beautiful Can Can Dancers of The Love Show.....ooh la la 2-6pm in front of Cercle Rouge, a charming French provincial brasserie located in the heart of Tribeca. This is a free event! Cocktails from Ricard and Lillet.

Cercle Rouge

241 West Broadway 

(btw Walker & White St.)

Tribeca, NYC

7:30 PM - JAZZ IT UP LIKE THE LOST GENERATION AT ELLA LOUNGE

Another year of bow ties and boaters has come and gone, and instead of coming together to mourn the rapid passing of time, you are cordially invited to celebrate the birth of that New York native.....Mr. Dandy Wellington!

What does a perfect birthday celebration consist of for a dandy you ask?? Let's lay the foundation down with a room full of amazing minds, familiar and new.....then the mood is set with some outstanding jazz....add in a cocktail or two, a dash of impeccable dress, and the magic unfolds...

Flaunt your elegance, exude the exquisite, and emulate the effervescent in a room full of Dandy's closest friends, this Thursday, July 14th at Ella Lounge. #DW2011

Doors at 7:30pm, Show at 8:00pm Live Music by: Dandy Wellington and The Made to Measure Band

Ella Lounge

9 Avenue A 

(btw 1st and 2nd street)

East Village, NYC

10PM - A FETE NATIONALE: NOUVELLE VAGUE STYLE

Head over to Jacques at 20 Prince Street in SoHo and then downstairs to 1534 cocktail bar for an evening of absinthe-themed fun including cocktails served in absinthe fountains, absinthe Popsicles, burlesque performances by Mermaid Cafe, sexy music all night long and more. Barman extraordinaire Rafael Reyes and the 1534 crew will be serving up Parisian specials.

Wear a moustache and/or red lipstick to enter.

1534 Bar

below Jacques

20 Prince Street

SoHo, NYC

(photo credit: Sam Horine for Metromix)

Destinations: July 4th 2011 Weekend

The Loungerati at the Liberty Belle Spectacular 2010

Ok patriots, we are recommending two unique events for your Fourth of July tipple. A Jazz Age extravaganza with hot burlesque, potent punches, and a vintage attired crowd with rooftop views of the fireworks or a good old fashioned BBQ with a special whiskey tasting in Tribeca.  Here is the skinny!



The Liberty Belle Spectacular
July 4th  - 5pm - 2am
Empire Hotel Rooftop Bar
$25 at the door / $20 in advance

Dances of Vice, The Salon, The Champagne Riot, and Wit's End join forces to present another unforgettable vintage Fourth of July extravaganza!

Featuring vintage patriotic melodies by Gelber & Manning and the Star Spangled Orchestra; rockabilly ballads, boogies and blues by Susquehanna Industrial Tool & Die Co; acoustic Hawaiian swing on the East Terrace by the Moonlighters; performances by tap sensations The Minsky Sisters; mesmerizing burlesque by Angie Pontani, Jezebel Express, Main Attraction, Gal Friday, and Medianoche; DJs Adam Lee and DJ Sei (Rebel Night); cocktails by guest bartender Fredo from Loungerati; and the always dapper MC Dandy Wellington!

We're starting the party earlier this year, and when you get a ticket online, you'll be able to reserve an admission time.

For more information go to:
www.libertybellespectacular.com

* Tickets sold with a reserved time-slot for ease of admission

Empire Hotel
44 West 63rd Street
New York, NY

4th of July Back Yard BBQ
WARD III
July 4th - 5pm - 8pm
Free Admission

We're grilling for the 4th of July! As most of us don't have back-yards, and not all of us can get away for the weekend, we've bought a bad-ass smoker, and are setting it up outside the bar.

$10 gets you a massive plate of food. $15 gets you the same plate, a pint of beer inside, and a sneak peak at the brilliant Cheryl Lins' new line of aged whiskies. Honestly, how else would we celebrate the 4th but with a whiskey tasting?

Barbecue prepared by Ward III chef, Coby Farrow, veteran line-cook & rock-star barback Danny Neff, and culinary school graduate Wes Bouchia.

The grill we be cooking from 5-8pm. Nice view of the fireworks a short walk away. All are welcome.

Ward III
111 Reade Street
Tribeca, NYC

Destinations: The 6th Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party at Governors Island - June 25th and 26th

Loungerati recommends the following lovely weekend event that is a must attend for any vintage aficionado worth their straw boater. Michael Arenella, one of the hardest working bandleaders I know (I actually know many!), hosts the 6th Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party on New York's Governors Island. The party goes on for two days so really there are excuses short of a weekend wash out. See you there swells!

THE 6TH BI-ANNUAL
JAZZ AGE LAWN PARTY
ON GOVERNORS ISLAND
SATURDAY & SUNDAY, June 25TH & 26TH
11:00 am to 5:00 pm
Admission $7/advance (available here),$10/door (Children Under 12 Free)

Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra invites you to join us on this hidden gem just off the southeastern tip of Manhattan, nestled in the heart of majestic New York Harbor.

Under a shady grove of centuries-old trees, caressed by fresh sea air, a sprawling green surrounded by historic officers' quarters and 18th century naval ramparts becomes the setting for a true Gatsby affair. A recession-friendly $7 advance admission gives you access to one of the Summer's most magnificent celebrations.

Widely anticipated by flappers, sporting gents and tiny tots alike, this event has been featured and reviewed consistently by The New York Times, who selected the Jazz Age Lawn Party as one of the most memorable parties of 2009 and 2010.


A wide array of music, food & drink, and activities are open for all ages to enjoy:

*Featuring special guests Gelber & Manning!
*Beautiful, real-wood '50 x '50 dance floor set up right on the lawn!
*A delightful variety of refreshing cocktails will be served by St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur and beer provided by Brooklyn Brewery.
*Gourmet entrees, sandwiches, salads and more will be for sale. Vegetarian dishes, too!
*Soda, juice, water, and other beverages available.
*Tasty desserts, old-fashioned ice cream cones and ices!
*Picnicking welcomed! (just leave the hooch at home, it's prohibited by regulations except as sold by our approved vendor at event.)
*Performances by '20s tapping sensations The Minsky Sisters
*Authentic '78 records from the 1920s played on antique phonographs by Michael Cumella of WFMU's Antique Phonograph Music Program.
*Charleston lessons by dance legend Roddy Caravella
*Vintage portraits by Tsirkus Fotografika
*1920s Motorcar Exhibition - take a spin around the island in a genuine rumble-seat; hold on to your hat!
*Vintage clothing dealers and boutique milliners Ellen Christine Millinery, Fine and Dandy Shop, Noble Savage Vintage, Zelda Magazine, & More! - They will all be peddling wares, so be sure to tuck some cash in your garter.
*Live dance performances
*Bathing Beauties & Beaus Promenade
*Tug O' War
*Parade Of Hats
*Pie Recipe Contest
**If you'd like to sign up for the pie contest, you must pre-register by emailing Sarah Liston at govislandpie@gmail.com. Bakers can sign up until midnight Fri. June 24th.

AND EVEN MORE ATTRACTIONS TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

Destinations: The Mermaid Parade 2011 - June 18th

Forever blowing bubbles at the Mermaid Parade

Celebrate summer a few days early! Get your fishtails out, your rubber crab claws, glittery pasties, and vintage cabanda wear, and celebrate Summer at the 28th Annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade!

The Skinny from Coney Island USA

The Mermaid Parade celebrates the sand, the sea, the salt air and the beginning of summer, as well as the history and mythology of Coney Island, Coney Island pride, and artistic self-expression. The Parade is characterized by participants dressed in hand-made costumes as Mermaids, Neptunes, various sea creatures, the occasional wandering lighthouse, Coney Island post card or amusement ride, as well as antique cars, marching bands, drill teams, and the odd yacht pulled on flatbed. 

 

Each year, a different celebrity King Neptune and Queen Mermaid rule over the proceedings, riding in the Parade and assisting in the opening of the Ocean for the summer swimming season by marching down the Beach from the Boardwalk, cutting through Ribbons representing the seasons, and tossing fruit into the Atlantic to appease the Sea Gods. In the past, David Byrne, Queen Latifah, Ron Kuby, Curtis Sliwa, Moby, David Johansen and Harvey Keitel have graced our shores, presiding over the assembled masses. This year's King Neptune, Brooklyn native Adam Richman from the Travel Channel's Man V. Food and Queen Mermaid, Cat Greenleaf from the New York Emmy Award winning television show, Talk Stoop with Cat Greenleaf!

The Parade is followed by the 9th Annual Mermaid Parade Ball at the New York Aquarium, a post-parade gathering where costumed parade participants can get together with each other and parade spectators to listen to live music, purchase raffle tickets, and watch burlesque and sideshow acts performed by some of New York City's hottest burlesque stars.

In addition to the parade festivities and Ball, we also suggest the following after party:

Yehoodi "Brooklyn Bombshell" Mermaid party at Flatbush Farms in Park Slope. 5pm. That's at 76 Saint Marks Ave at Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn.

 

(photo credit: Acid Cow)

Destinations: The LOUNGE at the Edison Ballroom - June 3rd

Loungers, please join me at The Lounge in the Edison Ballroom for a special evening of top shelf jazz, naughty burlesque, and hand crafted cocktails by yours truly. The price may seems steep at $45 but it includes open bar, hors d'oeuvres, entry, tips, coat check, the works. In other words - it is a great deal so don't be swayed by sticker shock! Below is the press release from our friends at The Salon:

"The FINAL loungerific installment of The Salon's new swank event at the beautiful Edison Ballroom! We're featuring one of our favorite singers, Queen Esther (Jazzmobile Singer of the Year). It's the last chance of the season to put your finest threads on and get the best in lounge with an open bar & hors d'oeuvres all night!

featuring live music by
QUEEN ESTHER & HER LADS OF JOY

MEDIANOCHE BURLESQUE

Emcee Extraordinaire
DANDY WELLINGTON

DJ GAYLORD FIELDS

Craft Cocktails by
FREDO from Loungerati.com

Admission includes top-shelf open bar all night
Hors d'oeuvres, coat check and gratuities

$45 General Admission at the door / 9:30pm-1am
Open bar and hors d'oeuvres included!
http://www.TheSalon.biz/

WANNA DANCE? A Swing Big Band and Latin Band play all night downstairs on the dance floor... plus chance to win $$$ during the dance contests. More info at http://www.thesalon.biz/EdisonContest.htm

Edison Ballroom
240 West 47th Street, 
New York, NY

Destinations: Wit's End "Moonlight Rendez-Vous" - May 28th

Your Hosts at Wit's End

Our friends Diane Naegel and Don Spiro of Club Wit's End present the latest installment of their monthly jazz age party this Memorial Day weekend. Spend your Saturday night at the "Moonlight Rendez-Vous":

"It's a very special edition of Wit's End! Not only is it the launch party for the fourth issue of Zelda : The Magazine of the Vintage Nouveau, but it's also the official CD Release party for Gelber & Manning's new album, Moonlight Picnic! Celebrate both with us over the holiday weekend!

All guests will receive a copy of Issue 4 of Zelda, with lovely gift bags while they last! Arrive early to ensure that... you get yours! JUST ANNOUNCED : Our friends at Sweet Libertine Mineral Cosmetics  will be providing eyeshadows for our gift bags! Make sure you're there early enough to get yours!

GELBER & MANNING  will be providing the hottest jazz and ragtime tunes you can handle as we foray towards summer! Get your copy of their new album tonight only for just $5 - that's half price!

FREE DANCE LESSON with Jeri Lynn and Neal!

RESERVE YOUR TABLE! Flute is now offering table reservations for our guests! To reserve your table for Wit's End, call Flute Midtown at 212.265.5169 and mention our party.

As always, vintage cocktails, music of the 1920s/30s, and good conversation! Evening attire is required; 1910s-1940s vintage or vintage-inspired is encouraged!"

$17 doors, 21+

Flute Bar - Midtown

205 W 54th St

New York, NY

The Salon: LOUNGE at the Edison Ballroom May 13th and May 20th

THE SALON has teamed up with the beautiful 1930's EDISON BALLROOM to feature the best in lounge, with a spectacular lineup of live jazz and lounge bands, burlesque dancers, DJ's and craft cocktails. Plus, there is a top-shelf open bar and hors d'oeuvres all night; THE LOUNGE perfectly evokes the glamour of classic New York City.

Known for throwing some of the best retro-inspired parties in New York City, THE SALON created this new swank event within the intimate setting of the upstairs lounge of the renovated 1930's Edison Ballroom.

THE LOUNGE - complete lineup:

FRIDAY, MAY 13TH
Featuring live music by LAPIS LUNA; ANGIE PONTANI - the reigning Queen of Burlesque & Miss Exotic World; MC DANDY WELLINGTON; DJ EFFERVESCENT; and cocktails by KENNETH MCCOY of THE RUM HOUSE

FRIDAY, MAY 20TH
Featuring live music by MATTHEW PIAZZI & THE DEBONAIRS; GRACE GOTHAM - Humor's Favorite Temptress; MC DANDY WELLINGTON; Primativa in Hi-Fi The Exotic Sounds of DJs JACK FETTERMAN & GINA OF THE JUNGLE; and cocktails by FREDO of LOUNGERATI.


THE LOUNGE  at THE EDISON BALLROOM, located at 240 west 47th Street (btw Broadway & 8th Ave) and starts at 9:30pm with live music until 1am. General Admission is $45 and includes top-shelf open bar all night, hors d'oeuvres, tips and coat check. Tickets can be purchased at the door.

Destinations: The Easter Parade 2011

Easter Paraders (photo credit: Lynn Redmile)

The Easter Parade is one of the last remaining quintessential New York traditions not overrun by arrivistes misinterpreting nostalgic Gotham. From the late-19th century until the 1950s, over one million people attended the annual event. Crowds may have thinned in this last half-century, but hardcore New Yorkers with penchants for ceremony and haberdashery keep it relevant.  Today, New Yorkers will put on their finest attire, don creative headwear, and promenade up-and-down Fifth Avenue for several hours. It is an informal amble, and any line between spectators and participants ebbs and flows like the Avenue's traffic.

From a lounge lifestyle-perspective, aficionados of vintage style hang up their herringbone and break-out fresh and found fashions. If you like to see boaters, seersucker, bonnets, poplin suits, bow ties, boutonnieres, and a glamorous, sartorial crowd, it is a must-attend event. Whether one is religious or not, the Easter Parade is treated by the city as its entrance to Spring. Jazz Age stalwarts such as Michael Arenella &  The Dreamland Orchestra or Drew Nugget & Midnight Society set up guerrilla performances in front of venerable institutions like St. Patrick's Cathedral, playing until New York's Finest kindly ask them to move on... it is a Parade, after all! Swing dancers from the decade-old website and community, Yehoodi, show up with prepared routines as shutterbugs snap the whole scene. The New York Times photographer, Bill Cunningham, nips in and out the throng to spot those who'll grace next weekend's Sunday Styles section.

The Easter Parade runs from 10 a.m. through until 4 p.m. Gather in front of Rockefeller Center before making your way up to 57th Street, then stroll back down Fifth Avenue, and repeat!

After today's Parade, the loungerati will retire to some of the area's classic restaurants, bars, and, if they are tired out, private clubs. Destinations include afternoon tea service at the Palm Court, cocktails in the Oak Bar, afternoon Red Snappers at the King Cole Bar, and cigars on the terrace of the University Club.

This Week In Lounge ... April 11 - 16 - Soirees, Speakeasies, and Spirits

Dizzy Fizz Spirits Soiree

There is so much going on this week that I need to consolidate in one easy to reference post. Get ready for a multitude of choices that range from Benefits for Japan to Spirits Soirees to Tiki and Big Band extravaganzas:

Monday, April 11th

New York Loves Japan - Punch Party

Where: The Summit Bar (Avenue C at 9th Street) Alphabet City, NYC

After a long Monday at work, come out, relax and feel great about doing something good. A group of amazing brand representatives, artists, writers and musicians have graciously donated their time, effort and a WHOLE lot of booze in the name of helping out Japan.  Six hand-crafted, Japanese-inspired punches will be on the bartop, and a $20 donation gives you unlimited punch refills and tunes by DJ Kimiko Masuda.  The Punch Sponsors for the night include:

Pernod Absinthe, Belvedere vodka, Sailor Jerry Rum, Corazon Tequila, Leblon Cachaça, Beefeater Gin, The Tippling Bros. (with Classic & Vintage Artisanal Spirits portfolio)

Craft bartender/Summit owner Greg Seider  and his bar staff (including Loungerati's Best Bartender of 2010 Damon Dyer) will be mixing up and selling amazing Yamazaki Japanese whiskey cocktails ($12) all night long.

Suggested donation: $20

Tuesday, April 13th

Primativa in Hi-Fi

Where: Painkiller Tiki Bar (49 Essex Street, Lower East Side, NYC)

Celebrate the "Father of Exotica" Martin Denny's 100th Birthday at Painkiller  with the exciting musical arrangements of Jack Fetterman and Gina of the Jungle. Throw back Mai Tais, Zombies, and one of my personal favorite, the LES LUAU Mist (a stirred drink that literally tastes like a the ingredients of a luau - pork goodness!) made by award winning Painkiller staff.

Entry: Free

Thursday, April 14th

The French Spirits Soiree 

Where: Astor Center is located at 399 Lafayette St., (Between Astor Pl. and E. 4^th St.), NYC

The Dizzy Fizz's Selena Ricks is one of the hardest working people I know. She has the know how to get the right spirits industry folks together and pull off unique events like the Holiday Spirits Bazaar. This Thursday French spirits and a Parisian fin-de-ciele theme will be showcased. The event, at Astor Center in New York City, will feature turn-of-the-20th-century cocktails, punches, spirits and absinthe; gourmet cheese and charcuterie by Murray’s Cheese and rustic bread by Scratchbread; and live cabaret band The Hot Sardines and more.

The event is sponsored by: Lillet, Pernod, Ricard, Tariquet Armagnac, Bonal, Dolin Vermouth, Cointreau®, Rémy Martin 1738® Accord Royal, Benedictine, G’Vine Gin, June Liqueur, St-Germain, and Noilly Prat Vermouth.

Media/VIP entry is from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., and general entry is from 7:30 – 10 p.m. Tickets are available exclusively on Thrillist Rewards. Please note, guests must be 21 to attend and bring photo ID. For more information, please visit: www.spiritssoiree.com

Tickets: $45

The Lounge at Edison Ballroom

Friday, April 15th

The LOUNGE at The Edison Ballroom

Where: The Edison Ballroom (240 West 47th Street, NYC)

Following the SALON's 10th Anniversary Extravaganza last month,  Patrick Soluri and company have  teamed up with the Edison Ballroom to create THE LOUNGE.

featuring live music by J. WALTER HAWKES TRIO, Danger Dame VERONICA VARLOW, Emcee Extraordinaire DANDY WELLINGTON, Primativa in Hi-Fi, The Exotic Sounds of JACK FETTERMAN & GINA OF THE JUNGLE, Crafted Cocktails by FREDO from Loungerati

Includes top-shelf open bar all night, Hors d'oeuvres, coat check and gratuities

Tickets: $45 General Admission - at the door / 9:30pm-1amhttp://www.TheSalon.biz/

(includes open bar, passed hors 'd'ouerves, coat check, tips)

Saturday, April 16th

Bootlegger 21 Vodka Launch, Amateur Mixology Competition followed by the  
An Homage to Harlem Glamour Speakeasy

Where: 76 Wooster, SoHo, NYC

Fabled Jazz-Age Harlem is reincarnated for one night in a four-story Soho townhouse. Featuring an All-Star program of hot music and dance, decadent Bootlegger 21 Vodka cocktails, gourmet hors d oeuvres’, real casino games, fresh hand-rolled cigars and an after-hours lounge offering further unspeakable delights.

Downstairs - the joint is jumpin’ with live hot jazz, starring Michael Arenella and his Dreamland Orchestra in front of a REAL WOOD dance floor. In addition an All-Star program of tap dance, risqué follies and floorshow revue is in store. Document your night of frivolity in our vintage-style photo booth. Gorgeous cigarette girls strolling the club offer candies, gifts, and - cigarettes.

In the upstairs lounge – while a lovely chanteuse and piano-man set the mood, guests are invited to try a hand at poker, craps and blackjack with fabulous prizes, enjoy fresh cigars hand-rolled on premises, and other surprises.

Harlem was, at the frenzied height of the Jazz Age, the Mecca of all that swung, shook and shimmered. At once an emblem of status and taboo, sophistication and lust, it was a cocktail of well-heeled “high hatters” in search of a deviant thrill mixed with the exotic, jazz-fueled pulse of Harlem night culture.

Tickets: $25 at Event Bee