The glowing neon pulls you down the steps like a siren call, but the first thing you notice upon entering Bar Henry is that, far from some groovy subterranean dive bar, this cocktail space is clean and smart—a mix of SoHo cool and Village cozy, which is perfect for a bistro on the line between the two neighborhoods. Then you head all the way back to the little dining room, where exposed brick tilts the mood toward Village, for tavern staples like a spicy taco short rib, steak frites and, if you haven’t already filled up on them at the bar, the best deviled eggs you’ve ever had. But you could remain in the front bar all night, because great wine at a reasonable price is what Bar Henry is all about. Bar Henry offers two lists, the Reserve, with famous old vintages (still an amazing bargain, at $182 for Il Poggione Brunello) and the Market list, all of whose selections are available by the half-bottle, which means you and your friends can really get a sampling, especially from lesser-known regions around the world. Remember, don’t fill up on the deviled eggs.

Bedeviled eggs
Ceviche
Short rib taco
Frenched grass-fed rib steak
Tarte Tatin
view full menu here

To catch the action, sit up front at the bar or at one of the bar’s two-tops. For a quieter scene, head for the dining room.

Wine from any half bottles left unsold becomes available by the glass. Always ask what’s on tap, because if you’re in a sampling mood, this is the best deal around.

Mon.–Wed. 5:30 PM–11 PM;
Thurs.–Sat. 5:30 PM–12 midnight; Sun. 5:30 PM–11 PM
(kitchen closes one hour before restaurant)
oyster happy hour: Mon.–Sun. 5:30 PM–7 PM

$15 (hamburger Henry) to $26 (market fish)