Here are the names of two good pubs if you like a great selection of beers from around the world. They both draw a good mixed crowd.

The Blind Tiger - on Bleecker St in the West Village.

The Gingerman - 36th between 6th and Park.

If you want to go to the coolest, weirdest Japanese resaurant (Japanese tapas and 1000 different Sakes) check out this place. You would only find a place like this in NYC. Get the eel.

http://www.sakagura.com/

Stay the fuck away from Times Sq unless you are going to a show. It's corporate hell now and total tourist crap.

If you are into celebrity chefs and don't want to break the bank, go to Otto, at 1 Fifth Ave. It's Mario Batali's pizza and pasta join, very affordable and good. Then head over the Blind Tiger, it's pretty close by.