"There are some great underground lounges and fancy cocktail bars in the Financial District, but none are as cool, lively, or laid back as Verjus. This natural wine shop and restaurant plays old records, and the wine is organized on book shelves that reach the top of the shiny red ceilings. You will browse them for a new favorite bottle before sitting in the big cozy booth next to the bar to drink orange Chenin Blanc or split French and Spanish small plates with friends. Everything at Verjus is good, but we like the pate en croute, and if you’re in the mood for something sweet, get the french toast - it’s one of the best desserts in the city." - will kamensky