Striving4Zen

An Upper West Side boite with a downtown sensibility seems unlikely, but Loft is the exception. Located in the space that was once Mod (but you'd never know it, thankfully), Loft offers equal shares of warmth and coolness. The cocktail menu features inventive potions - including such ingredients as basil and cilantro - tapas and even desserts (try a gooey molten curried chocolate cake). Fresh flowers fill the open dining room and cozy lounge area downstairs for a neighborhood experience that's, well, refreshing.
Loft, 505 Columbus Ave., at W. 84th St. (212) 362-6440.