1) beer + shot combo: can either order a nicer liquor (sip) or the well option (take as shot). Fun to order with friend/SO. Cheap yet cost effective way to get the evening started. mmmm we love Whiskey
2) espresso shot/cortado/etc. with seltzer sidecar. the latter is a lovely refresher/cleanser to offset the strong coffee flavor.. and it’s fun to say “sidecar”
Extra fun if they have Empress gin! beautiful and tasty
Other favorites worth noting (but not as fun):
Suntory whisky highball
negroni (ask for a white negroni if you’re feeling fancy)
Aperol spritz
paper plane
usually i will just get a vodka soda but if it's a special night i love a mojito, margarita, or a dirty martini... love a mimosa/bellini always... piña collada or daiquiri when extra special!! also starting to get into gimlets
Particularly in NYC… the FINDS are endless.. you can really hop on crazy opportunities. Put a partial down payment to guarantee it. Low ball. Do it. So much better than eBay. Akin to CraigsList. Use it as an opportunity to go to a part of the city you haven’t been. Hit an acquaintance up who you know lives in that area, perfect excuse to say hello. Or Bring a read and go to a wine bar solo. Truuuust.