Clandestino Cafe & Bar Llc

03/05/08

Piece of Paris in NYC

by miskafied at Citysearch

I'm part of a weekly Wednesday drinking group of 30 or so regulars who love to drink, geek out, talk and eat after work. We check out a different bar each week. We've been kicking around the city for 12 years. In that time we've visited several hundred bars (with repeats of faves). I'm a Francophile. I love Paris, the food, the people, the wine, the culture, the joie de vivre. Clandestino is a little slice of Paris exported to a small property on the edge of Chinatown. The owner of the restaurant, an expressive lady with guts and gusto, was seated at the bar one night. I'm glad I had the opportunity to thank her over and over again for a fabulous bar/bistro experience. This place is on the small size, but it's huge in character and good times.

• Pros: Understated Atmosphere, Stylish and Simply Good
• Cons: On the Small Size

07/19/07

Clandestino is my favorite neighborhood bar.

by ebrookm at Citysearch

Friendly bartenders, comfortable space, quaintly decorated, great drink selection, perfect appetizer list. I love this bar.

• Pros: Service, drinks, small food menu choice, outdoor space...
• Cons: Friday nights can get too crowded, does not open until 7pm.

08/04/06

A fly by night...

by jabodo at Citysearch

This place popped up on Canal not too long ago. It almost feels like they're holding the space for something more grand planned for down the road. Everything, from the decor to liquor selection seems like it's very temporary. The bartenders seem very inexperienced, so order simple drinks. I am curious what is planned for this space, but for now it's just a spot to get a quick drink on your way somewhere else.

A cozy neighborhood nook nestled in Chinatown.

by Katie Heffernan at Citysearch

In Short
This simple bar sprouted up to serve below-Delancey downtowners with a low-key spot to convene in the evenings. There are no other pretenses--it's just a small, shabby-chic space with low tin ceilings and rough-hewn plywood walls, softened by glowing orb lights and chill-out tunes. The beers on tap are choice but common (think Sixpoint, Guinness, Hoegaarden), and the European wine list short and sweet. A tiny patio squeezes in out back, surrounded by sky-high brick walls.