This is one classy Williamsburg establishment. Pretty unassuming from the outside, the sign simply says: ‘Bar – Oysters’. That’s one hell of an understatement; not only do they have one of the largest collections of absinthe in NYC and the some of the most skilled staff in this part of town, they also have one serious list of oysters. We’re talking an entire page of every size, shape and taste of the mighty molluscs that you could wish for. Don’t know your Kumamoto from your Purple Hills? You’re about to get educated.

The cocktails are equally exhaustive, but be careful when you’re putting them away, they’re heavy on the booze. If you’ve already sampled some of their absinthe on tap (!) you probably won’t need too many more before you’re spring-break sozzled, which is kinda inappropriate in a bar of this class. The style is totally decadent old world, with a stunning central marble bar, a cluster of tables in the back and a pretty courtyard. We started with a Chrysanthemum (more absinthe), and then got tempted into a Maison Piña Colada, served in a whole young coconut. Don’t feel like moving? You can get Tableside Sazerac service, or grab the Old King Cole Martini. It’s stirred at your table and you can add Osetra Caviar. Now that’s bling.

NB. Hit it up for Oyster Happy Hour (Mon-Fri: 4-7pm). Come early or expect queues.