Bar Veloce

Bar Veloce in the East Village is a swanky yet unpretentious wine bar for locals. I wouldn't necessarily make a trip to the EV for the sole purpose of visiting this spot, but if you're here and have an evening ahead of, or behind, you, it wouldn't hurt to drop by for a cocktail and a nosh.

The minimalistic, sexy ambiance has a chameleon effect and attracts a diverse audience. The white tiled walls, high wood tables, and steel detailing make you feel as if you're behind the scenes in the kitchen, yet the wall of staggering wine bottles and soft candle light remind you otherwise. On a winter night the bar is fully enclosed, providing a cozy escape from the biting cold, and in the summer the front glass wall opens up and introduces the bar to a burgeoning crowd of thirsty sidewalk dwellers.

Whether your in the neighborhood for a romantic date, or a local looking to fill the gap of a toned down evening, your time here can be fully customized to your needs. Land a table in the back to share plates and bottles with friends over inappropriate conversation, or steal some seats at the fully open bar and impress your date by quizzing the bartender on tannins and body.

The extensive wine and cocktail list has a range of prices and varietals accompanied by a small menu of shared Italian plates. The Barolo and Lambrusco, for instance, represent two vastly different wines but are satisfying in their own right. The Barolo is deep, full bodied and smooth, while the Lambrusco is sweet, with a bite of fizz and the zest of fruit. The mixed marinated olives and sliced prosciutto with fresh bread make the perfect pairing.

Bar Veloce is a local wine bar in the East Village that provides just that, a perfect pairing.