"The best place to pregame a lively night out at this clubby Indian spot in the East Village? At Superbueno, an exceptionally lively bar with cocktails that will take any long wait-associated pain away. Order a mushroom margarita and a tostada if you need one. Superbueno takes reservations, but there is a cancellation fee—so if it’s too packed, head to Commodore II, a bar where you can drink a frozen piña colada and eat a pre-dinner fried chicken. Online reservations go up 20 days in advance at 11am. Bungalow accepts walk-ins for the dining room and eight-seat bar. If you want a walk-in table, your best bet is early in the week. We've also had some success with email (info@bungalowny.com)." - willa moore