Hudson Bar & Books: Since the smoking ban took effect, puffers have skulked about curbside while the rest of us celebrated smoke-free hair and sweaters. Nothing drives home the blessing of the ban like an evening in Hudson Bar and Books, a bar so small and smoke-choked, it feels more like a black lung than a lounge. Still, the bartenders are well-groomed, the drinks, while pricey, are sophisticated, and the bar snacks are tasty. The book-lined shelves lend the place a private club feel. If a stogie suits you, buy a fine one here. If you’re smoking your own or opt not to smoke, you’ll be greeted with a $3 surcharge on your bill. Hopefully it goes straight into the Employee Iron Lung Fund. |
