Nestled in-between a divey tattoo parlor and the crazy shit going on in Tompkins Square Park, Bua may be the best people-watching perch in New York while still being able to have a drink (at least legally). Bua is an East Village staple with friendly bartenders and loyal regulars. The cocktail list is short and simple - mainly slight variations on time-honored drinks. We liked the spicy kick in the Smoke & Spice Margarita, and as an agave-lover, the Mezcal Mule did it for us. But the Red Lemonade (vodka, muddled lemons and pomegranate juice) has been on the menu since this place opened over a decade ago. After that we needed a snack; bring on the fried chicken sandwich, which should come with a food coma warning. Best shared. Happy hours generously run until 8pm on weekdays and 4pm on weekends. The outdoor seating fills up early on warm days, but the large open windows and natural light make sitting inside just as good. Pro tip: the bathroom doors slide.