I still don't feel old enough for this. . . .

It's been five months.....but, every time I walk into a bar, I still feel like I'm doing something illegal.


It's ridiculous. I am 21. TWENTY-ONE. This is no longer illegal. Why do I feel guilty? This question remains unanswered; however, this weekend, I experienced two really awesome bars in New York. So, I thought I'd share them with you, dear readers!


The first bar was called Burp Castle: Temple of Beer Worship. Now, though the name may sound incriminating, don't let it fool you. Located in the East Village, the bar combines intellectual conversation with hipster attire. Let me set the scene for you: the walls are covered in murals of a semi-medieval style. The bar is made of a deep stained wood that has an air of sophistication to it. The indoor seating is made of smaller, two- and three-top tables; there is also a small, outdoor patio that 6 or 7 people can enjoy. But, the coolest thing about this bar is that it's quiet. If the bar gets even remotely loud, the bartender releases a loud but non threatening "shhhhhhhhh," and everyone immediately quiets. It's fantastic to watch and be a part of. The atmosphere is relaxed and exciting all at once. On a side note, their beer options are pretty wonderful, and moderately priced. The two I tried were a Chimay and a Bruxelles Blanche, both of which were wonderful. A girl sitting next to me on the patio suggested the Bruxelles Blanche, claiming the aftertaste was like Trix cereal......she was right [go figure]. So, if you're ever wandering the East Village on a Saturday night, I highly suggest it. If you want to learn more, check out their website/blog at http://burpcastlenyc.wordpress.com/about-2/.

Who doesn't want to be sitting at this bar?

What could be cooler than a bar with murals on the walls and a hint of monk? Only one that celebrates Communist Russia, of course! The KGB Bar reads red - literally. The bar's walls are painted red and adorned with Russian paraphernalia, which is arguably authentic. The beer is strong and cheap and comes in bottles that are larger than any regular-sized American beer I've ever seen. But, the coolest thing about this bar is that is has literary readings 4 nights/week! How cool is that? Beer and books, what more could a girl want? Apparently (and by apparently, I mean according to their website), up-and-coming authors flock to read pieces of their works at this bar. I can't say I blame them. The atmosphere is dark and relaxed; it's clear that people come to KGB to sit back, relax with friends, and enjoy an evening of Russian beer and books. If you really want to learn about the bar I suggest checking out their detailed history on their website: http://www.kgbbar.com/bar/.

Oh, come on, you know this looks fun!

Well, that's all for now, dear reader. I hope you've enjoyed my brief tales of bars in the village!