Ninth Ward

East Village, New York –

A downtown saloon with Deep South roots, Ninth Ward evokes a vintage New Orleans drinking den with a decidedly rock and roll attitude.

Decked out head to toe in wood-slat shutters, rustic accents, and a southern gothic décor, the atmospheric bar draws a crowd of black-clad rockers and hipsters who settle into the high-backed chairs up front to sip cocktails and cheap suds and bob along to bluesy rock tunes.

A line of curtained and candlelit booths just past the stained glass image of a mystical southern belle provide space for groups of young professionals to hang out and contemplate the eclectic collection of NOLA artifacts, including voodoo dolls, liquor bottles, and gator heads kept safely in a mesh wire case.

Those who prefer to drink in the open air will want to check out the back patio, where rope lights and wrought-iron tables scattered amid stone statues and fountains create yet another evocative backdrop for the laid-back groups of creative types and students packed in to soak up the relaxed, southern gothic vibe.

Quirky and cool, Ninth Ward exudes a warm but world-weary atmosphere that will appeal to anyone looking for a mellow night out.