For some New Yorkers, the mental map of Fifth Avenue tapers off in the 90s, just after the last Museum Mile-marker. But for the diehard uptown crowd, the party really doesn’t start until 125th. And by the time you’re at 132nd St, where the crimson-and-brick DEN has been holding court in Harlem since 2004, well, there’s no stopping it. This well-groomed spot (whose name stands for Dining, Entertainment and Nightlife) kicks off the weekend on Wednesday, with a high-profile open mic night that packs the cozy brownstone space booty to booty. DJs on Thursdays and Fridays mean the only way of ensuring elbow room for conspicuous sipping of your Cuervo Gold Supa Fly (or one of the two dozen specialty cocktails, with names like Wu Wu Tang or Uncle Tom Collins) is to reserve a table or return on a quieter night earlier in the week. With its down home flair, uptown flava, and attitude-free staff, DEN makes a welcoming lair for regulars and newcomers alike.
2150 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10037 between 131st and 132nd Sts. 212-234-3045
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