Oliva: “We serve the best mojito in Manhattan,” claims the bartender, and they are indeed damn good. This Basque-inspired bar/restaurant is a bit different from most of the spots in the neighborhood, in that it’s neither jammed full of hipsters nor budding investment bankers. Four pitchers of sangria stand at the ready on the bar, while frenzied dancers work it between the tables in this tiny, candlelit spot. Jazz, Cuban, and salsa bands squeeze into one corner five nights a week, much to the delight of the aforementioned dancers. Outside, yellow cabs careen down the street and frat boys stumble loudly past, but inside Oliva, it’s possible to pretend you’re in Basque country, especially with all the Spanish being spoken. Just don’t turn around and look out the window. |
