One of the worst days of the year is the day you return to work from vacation. Most people have difficulty accepting the reality that they are no longer sitting on a beach drinking a mojito— or five —bronzing their bodies, and listening to smooth, tropical jams. Instead of continuing to let New Yorkers suffer through the return-to-work-after-vaca day, we’ve put together a list of places that will help to alleviate the pain. From Mexican fiestas to Jamaican jungles, here are 3 of our favorite destination-themed bars in New York City.
Réunion Surf Bar
Part tiki, part haute surf shack, this bar’s theme focuses specifically on its namesake: a miniature French island off the coast of Madagascar popular with the wave riders.
Drink up: Try any drinks with their signature liquor rhum arrangé (rums with ginger and mangosteen infusions), or a classic Dark & Stormy
Dig in: Try the Le Americain, a Réunionaisse sandwich with wonton meatballs, melted cheese, and french fries on a baguette
Kingston Hall
This ‘60s Jamaican clubhouse-themed bar embodies the essence of the golden age of reggae. It’s dark, intimate, and jungle-like ambiance makes you feel like you’ve found the island’s local watering hole in the middle of a tropical paradise.
Drink up: Try the Drunken Coconut, Jamaican Car Bomb, or a draught of Kona Longboard Island Lager
Dig in: Try the Coconut Shrimp, Shrimp & Chorizo Skewers, Jerk Pork Sliders
Tacombi Cafe El Presidente
Three of the best words to describe this Mexican-themed retreat is authentic, affordable, and vibrant. Hands down, it’s one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in Manhattan. Therefore, we have nothing else to say except, vamanos!
Drink up: Try the Michelada
Dig in: Try any and all of the various, authentic tacos