Highland Park 206 E 34th St, New York Map it
click image to enlarge	Location: Murray Hill Venue Type: Restaurant/Lounge Music: Top 40's, Hip-Hop, Rock, 80's

Vibe: Gastro pubs can be like the Real Housewives of the nightlife scene: Some are new and trying too hard, some are not even that old and already busted, and there are so many to choose from, it’s hard to know which to give your free time to. Luckily, Highland Park is here to make sure your birthday party is sophisticated, modern, yet down to earth (in other words, nothing like a Bravo housewife).

Spot: Aiming to bridge the gap between traditional sports pub and modern gastro pub, Highland Park features an upscale whiskey list, 22 beers on tap, tufted couches, and 24 flat screens, all set in a space that’s got a rustic vibe, but with all the modern touches you would expect from a New York City hot spot.

Grub: Here’s where Highland Park pulls away from the pack: Noted chef Nadia Day creates seasonal dishes and pairings, like a Brooklyn Lager-braised chicken or the bourbon stout-braised oxtail, perfect for crisp fall game days. The joint doesn’t skimp on the starters, either: 5-cheese truffle-baked macaroni, curry chicken poutine, and mussels with a delicious selection of sauces all fit the bill of birthday party fare sure to please—and great for soaking up all that alcohol you’ll be consuming, of course. Speaking of alcohol, don’t forget Highland’s cocktail list. Selections like the All American (Buffalo Trace bourbon, Maraschino liquor, lemon juice, pineapple juice) or the Monroe Fizz (Sazerac Rye, sweet vermouth, egg whites, lemon juice, Peychaud’s bitters, muddled blackberry, club soda) should keep the party rolling—or stumbling, dancing embarrassingly, etc—well into the wee hours.

The Deal: With an impressive, world-wide selection of beers (including options for flights and growlers, no less), a top-class whiskey list, and a wide selection of cocktails and wine, Highland Park would already be an ideal venue for the refined yet fun-loving birthday party. Throw in a menu overflowing with excellent, seasonal gastro fare, and you’ve got yourself an NYC classic.

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