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Le Dive seeks to capture the essence of a traditional Parisian tabac, offering a vibrant atmosphere highlighted by a lengthy zinc bar, glowing neon lights, and cafe tables adorned with glasses of wine and elegant charcuterie. On pleasant days, securing a table outside and indulging in a bottle of wine alongside mushroom pâté or steak tartare can evoke the charm of Canal St. Martin. The wine list is designed to appeal to many, primarily featuring European selections that remain budget-friendly, with prices starting at $13 per glass and $42 per bottle. It stands out as an ideal spot to immerse yourself in the lively Dimes Square culture.
Managing the wine selection at Parcelle, another new gem on Division Street, is sommelier Grant Reynolds.
Parcelle
This establishment not only provides an inviting wine list but also features refined bar snacks and offers weekly wine education classes.
Sunn’s
Just a short stroll away is the newly launched Sunn’s, where Chef-owner Sunny Lee is redefining the wine bar experience with a Korean twist. Following her successful run with a pop-up series, Banchan by Sunny, she has established a permanent spot in the Lower East Side. The intimate venue, seating only 16 patrons, often sees Lee behind the bar herself. The wine list, crafted in collaboration with Grant Reynolds, features around 30 bottles primarily from easy-drinking European producers, with an attractive selection of Korean rice wines as well. The menu offers seasonal Korean dishes designed for sharing, including a rotating array of banchan, a crisp chicory salad with pickled vegetables, and an Italian take on tteokbokki flavored with tomato, garlic, and stracciatella.
Casetta
Casetta is a cherished neighborhood gathering place, conveniently situated next to Le Dive, making it reminiscent of a casual Parisian café. Open most afternoons from 3 p.m., it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and pastry or relax with a glass of wine and some smoky tinned fish. The venue is run by the same team behind popular spots such as Casino, Mr. Fongs, and Bar Oliver. While the food consists of straightforward offerings like cheese and charcuterie and a delightful cherry bowl dessert, the wine selection is notably adventurous, featuring not only popular gamays but also intriguing blends and selections from Eastern European vineyards. Additionally, the venue hosts various pop-up events from guest chefs. Keep an eye on their Instagram page for the latest happenings.
Cactus Wren
A fresh contender in the local scene is Cactus Wren, created by chef Samuel Clonts and partner Raymond Trinh, who also opened the beloved 63 Clinton. This establishment defies traditional wine bar norms by offering an exciting array of dishes that rival its wine options, including a decadent seven-layer caviar dip, lobster pot pie, and pizza topped with comté and honey. The wine list prioritizes new producers that embrace low-intervention and sustainable practices, delivering a Michelin-star quality experience in a relaxed atmosphere.
Ha’s Snack Bar
Another essential stop for those ready to indulge is Ha’s Snack Bar, a popular destination for diners and wine lovers alike. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Anthony Ha and Sadie Mae Burns, who first crossed paths as line cooks at the former LES location of Mission Chinese, Ha’s began as a pop-up and now has established a permanent location on Broome Street. Their menu blends French and Vietnamese influences, featuring dishes like lobster vol-au-vent, escargot in tamarind garlic butter, and refreshing salads. The wine selection leans heavily towards French producers like JC Garnier and Mosse, while also featuring surprising options such as a bold Greek red. Reservations are highly coveted, so arriving promptly at 5:30 p.m. or monitoring their page on Resy for table availability is advisable.
Lai Rai
Continuing with the innovative trends of wine bars, Lai Rai in the Lower East Side is embracing the wine-and-ice cream concept with a Vietnamese flair. This venture combines the insights of the owners of nearby Mắm and Greenpoint’s Đi Ăn Đi. The pairing of wine with ice cream may seem unconventional, but it proves to be a delightful match. The ice cream flavors change frequently, with unique options ranging from banana leaf and fish sauce caramel to avocado. For those not keen on dessert, a variety of savory snacks like chicharrones, prawn crackers, and boiled peanuts are also available. The wine list showcases a wide range of offerings from regions including Italy, Spain, and Virginia, as well as local products like the handcrafted Hana Makgeolli rice wine.
Time Again
During summer, Time Again at the intersection of Canal and Forsyth streets offers a prime location for soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the LES. Positioned at the edge of Chinatown, this venue embodies the casual spirit of a bar, focusing primarily on drinks rather than elaborate meals, except for occasional pop-up events. The co-ownership of architect Nick Poe and rapper/music executive Alec Reinstein gives the place an inviting, homey feel, ideal for people-watching. They serve both classic cocktails and a selection of natural wines, balancing familiarity with occasional novelty, including a rotating roster of red, white, orange, and sparkling options. In the absence of pop-up evenings, expect an assortment of snacks such as olives, bread, and charcuterie to complement the lively ambiance.
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www.cntraveler.com