Bar of the Week: SESSION 73 on the Upper East Side of NYC

We choose Session 73 on the Upper East Side of New York City. Guests come back again and again for all the best reasons. Casual American fare, wonderful cocktails and live music nightly are just the beginning. This spot has three large rooms with two bars and comfortable plush seating. Session 73 is ideal for an after work happy hour, date night, an informal gathering or a special event.

Now that we're deep into summer, the cocktail menu at Session 73 features refreshing citrus recipes. Among the most popular offerings are the Jim Daly (Jim Bean honey combined with lemonade), the Encore (tequila, Bacardi, and cointreau anchored with orange juice), and the self-explanatory Lemon Ginger Mojito. These drinks all have intriguing twists. And, the Session's spin on the martini brings together lemon juice and seasonal jam. Still citrus-y, still winning.

If you are in the mood for a personalized drink, cocktail maestro Jon Zam will be happy to oblige. During our recent visit, he devised an on-the-spot cocktail by starting with fresh orange juice and Bacardi Dragonberry; from there, he played these tried and true flavors against a strong, delectable dose of vanilla liquor. And mixed drink inspirations of your own are welcome: Sessions 73 is now looking for guest bartenders.

Though Session 73 has a deep and diverse bar menu--everything from burger sliders to cheese fondue with fresh fruit--the kitchen does have go-to specialties. Prime among these is their pizza specialties. The Greek-inflected artichoke and sun-dried tomato pie is at once healthy and addictive, and the chipotle chicken incorporates heady spices and a sharp three-cheese blend.

Visit Session 73 for weekday happy hours, drinks and dinner, Monday Salsa Night, live bands and their local artist showcase now on Sundays. They are located at 1359 First Avenue (at 73rd Street) New York, NY 10021. Call them at (212) 517-4445 or visit their web site www.session73.com.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Session 73