Even though i knew that the path to this hidden treasure was hard to find, I had no idea I would have to go through the a/c ducting to get there. I was freaking out for my guests, worried they would back out at any moment. But as I had hoped, it was well worth the climb. The decor is a step back in time with bright neon colors that somehow have a calming effect. You could almost feel the breeze off the pacific ocean… where rum drinks are delivered in punch bowls and tin cups. This secret rum bar should not be a secret anymore. Cienfuegos located in the lower east side will show your date that you really are much hipper then you appear.

It seems like rooftop party spaces are popping up all over the city but few have the ability to go from indoors to outdoors with the push a button. This midtown hotel has exactly what it takes. Awesome views, cozy corners and all glass enclosed roofing that disappears the moment you request it. The food surpasses most and the service impeccable. Throw a couple of hot hot young things in skin tight dresses behind the bar and you have the makings of a magical night under the stars, or should i say, under the skyline.

Over the bridge or through the tunnel to a far away land called Sheepshead Bay there lives the Baku Palace. From the street it looks like your typical catering hall and once inside not much changes but the entertainment will take you by storm. Russia lives and breaths within these walls. From hot, hot dancers to soul singer, to disc jockey to Klezmer music, no one gets you pumping like these guys. So if you have a group from out of town and want them to see a side of Brooklyn not many encounter, rent a bus and let the journey begin.

During the winter months we are all very familiar with Wolman Rink, the popular ice skating rink located in Central Park. But how many of you knew that during the hot summer months the ice disappears and in it’s place comes carnival rides, cotton candy and catering to the kids. Yes, parents, your Haven has arrived and you don’t have to travel to the jersey shore to experience it. Children under 36″ enter free, otherwise a small admission price and additional cost for the ride tickets will gets your tots smiling and you relaxing.

Even though the elevator button says you are getting off on the 18th floor at the Standard Hotel, it feels like you are on top of the world. The views and opulence of this bar reminds you of better days, when we couldn’t spend our money fast enough. Yes, The Boom Boom Room drinks are pricey but well worth the experience. I don’t think i have ever been happier in spending $41.50 for a glass of wine and vodka with a splash of pineapple. But don’t decide to arrive fashionably late. After 8:00 p.m. it turns into a members only club, as it should!!!!!

Right below Union Square Park and a short ride up an elevator you are transported to the sights of the Coney Island Boardwalk with a Freak Show to boot. Yes, folks, the carnival has arrived in Manhattan. Tricked out with gaming booths, dunk tank, stilt walkers, contortionists and shooting gallery, this space screams “PARTY!!!!” Paris Hilton came to the opening party and hung out with an accordian monkey, does it get any better then that????

It’s time to get down and party like it’s the 1360′s B.C. Believe it or not there is a place in the city where you can eat and drink among Egyptian ruins and artifacts and it’s in the middle of Times Square. You enter into a non-descript door but once you reach the descending stairwell a different vibe takes hold. The walls and columns are covered in hieroglyphics and the furnishings from a time long gone. Up until January 1, 2011, the Discovery Center is holding the King Tut Exhibit and they are renting out the space for private events. And the King, himself, will be present.

This new supper club really goes the distance. The upstairs restaurant is nice on the eyes but Chef John Keller hits this one out of the park. Dish after dish there were no disappointments Do you know what a Shishoto Pepper is??? I didn’t. But let me tell you, there is nothing hot and spicy about it and if you are a garlic lover, indulge! Pork Bellies cooked to perfection with crispy skins on the outside and tender on the inside. I could go on and on but you should check it out for yourself. And when you are done sending your taste buds into a tizzy check out the downstairs club. Ski lodge meets Playboy Mansion, cozy, comfy and rockin’ out the tunes. Hey did I mention the $160 drink…
Covet Lounge

When renting a private event space that doesn’t come with catering, keep in mind what needs to be brought in. Remember the space only comes with 4 walls and a floor so when getting a price from the caterer, make sure it includes, obviously the food, but also the rentals, (tables, chairs, dishes, glasses, etc.), all beverages and staffing. Your linens and florals will probably come from the decorator. The beauty of going in this direction is so to start with a clean palette and end with your dream space.

For those of you who think that museums are boring and nothing but art to show, hold onto your horses… The Whitney Museum has an awesome party space downstairs with an outside garden. The promotion party included a hip young disc jockey spinning vinyl, (yes apparently that still exists), and the lighting was way high tech. The food ranged from mac and cheese, not the kind that comes in a box from Kraft, to home made caramel lollipops. And how can you go wrong with some funky art to dress up the space???