In Times Square, between Broadway and 6th you can find this fabulous Belgian bar and cafe chock full of excellent beer and friendly staff. I was in NYC in July and went four times in two days–it’s that good. Call me a sucker for a good, cozy place with atmosphere. In a city where there is an Irish pub on every corner (and none of them seem terribly Irish, to be honest–you can get better from the Emerald Isle in Boston) this is a standout. When the football is on, this place is jam-packed, but on a late Saturday night, this is the place to be.

I hit BXL Cafe post-concert, after a three hour show by The Cure. BXL is a few scant blocks from Radio City music hall so it’s a nice way to get your legs back afterwards and what a way to wind down an evening! I plotted my next freelance move over several pints of Duvel and other lovely brews, pondered the state of freelancing, and wondered how I could blog about the bar for, ahem, business purposes. Seriously– if you are in NYC, take some time to chill at this place–it’s great for regrouping, gathering your thoughts and bracing for the next round of queries.