Nautilus 100 Forsyth St. (Broome & Grand Sts.)
Lower East Side
212.625.3444
Nautilus:
Where is Forsythe Street? It’s right next to Forsythe Park. Which is…? OK, so Nautilus is off the beaten path, but in its cool little neighborhood where Chinatown meets the LES, this vaguely underwater-themed subterranean lounge is making quite a splash. Nearly mirroring sibling restaurant Monterone next door, Nautilus’ cozy bar leads to a narrow banquette area, which ends with the Grotto Osteria Lounge Garden—a quaint patio shared by the restaurant and lounge. Inside, light international jazz plays to couples and groups that enjoy intimacy between candlelit brick walls. If the Mediterranean-meets-Italian cuisine seems tailored for success, it might be the result of Chef Lauren Collura’s having been the executive chef for the U.S. Armani Cafés. Despite its full bar, Nautilus emits a decidedly classier wine bar vibe that’s perfect for dates.
