Fleur’s Guide To NYC’s New Hot Spots For Fall

After a summer of European yacht-hopping and long, lazy weekends in the Hamptons, New York City’s most fabulous are firmly back in town for fall, and they’re ready to hit it hard. After all, there’s nothing like a little crisp in the air to get you craving some steamy nights spent whispering over martinis or dancing under disco lights.

So if you’re looking for the perfect scenery spot to catch up with your crew, catch the eye of a handsome stranger, or get cozy with this season’s latest fling, you’re in luck. Fleur’s got your guide to the hottest spots to mingle (and more) in the city – and, of course, every layer of your look to step out in.

Café Chelsea

Bursting with vintage glamour and a sense of bohemian cool befitting its historic location, the recently opened Café Chelsea is a must for those who fancy themselves artsy, sophisticated, and perhaps a little bit French (even if it’s just spiritually). The Parisian-inspired eatery is tucked into the iconic Hotel Chelsea, which has served as a smoky playground for countless artists and rock stars over the decades. It channels that edgy elegance into the decor, with vintage chandeliers on the ceiling, original artwork lining the walls, and a show-stopping zinc bar at its center. Come for the glitzy crowd, stay for the French fare.

Café Chelsea, 218 W 23rd St, New York

Outer Heaven

Blast off for an intergalactic affair to remember at Outer Heaven. This equal parts funky and futuristic haunt takes the party vibes to heavenly heights on the Lower East Side, despite its decidedly underground electronic vibes. You can sidle up to the Japanese-minimalist “Record Bar” for a sip served up alongside some vinyl, or head straight for the dance floor to get moving and grooving alongside all the city’s cool kids. Whether you tuck into a sleek corner nook with a cocktail in hand, flirt with someone over rounds on a vintage arcade game, or get swept up by the tunes beneath technicolor neon lights, you’re bound to feel a celestial spark that’ll take you out of this world. Come in peace, and come to party.

Outer Heaven, 191 Chrystie St, New York

Madeline's Martini

Slip into something sexy, babe. You’ll want to show off your finest feathers at this peacock-plumed hideaway in the East Village, where the sultry scene is set by jazzy tunes, jewel tones, and a suggestive nude mural adorned with a bird of paradise. The dim, candlelit ambiance makes it the ideal spot for date night, as does its cheeky decorative embellishments, like taxidermy peacocks and vintage cigarette machines. As the spot’s name suggests, the cocktail menu is filled with variations on the classic martini, so snag yourself a sip that’s as refined (and as perfectly dirty) as you are. If you’re really feeling fancy, go ahead and split a caviar sandwich with your evening’s companion. Caviar *is* an aphrodisiac, you know.

Madeline’s Martini, 171 Loisaida Ave, New York

Jolene Sound Room

Jolene, Jolene… she may not take your man, but she will take you for an electrifying ride through spirited sounds, glittering red lights, and an energetic dance floor. Designed for a crowd that’s not afraid to get their groove on (while getting a little up close and personal), Jolene Sound Room is an intimate lounge-slash-dance club that’s heating things up on the ground floor of the new-ish Moxy Williamsburg Hotel in Brooklyn. And while the spot’s name is certainly inspired by the busty Queen of Country herself, you’ll find the music to be less Dolly, more “downtown DJ” when it’s pumping through the speakers. But that’s not to say you shouldn’t channel some of her bedazzled style into your ensemble for the evening.

Jolene Sound Room, 353 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn

Raf's

Eat, drink, see and be seen at Raf’s, a cozy European-style restaurant given the stamp of approval by New York foodies and fashionistas alike. Stylishly appointed with golden banquettes, hand-painted murals, and a slew of antique accents – from distressed mirrors and iron light fixtures to vintage cafe chairs sourced from Paris and Milan – the spot is imbued with an old-school charm that serves as the ideal contrast to its lively atmosphere. It’s hard not to get excited when an indulgent feast of French and Italian delicacies starts to march out from the kitchen towards your table, starting with the spot’s now-famous bread basket. Whip out your napkin and dab your lipstick – things are about to get deliciously messy.

Raf’s, 290 Elizabeth St, New York