The Bar/Lounge at Washington Square Hotel

"Built in 1904, it served as a second home for many top vaudeville and Broadway performers until the '50s, when it devolved into a rather seedy apartment hotel housing a number of struggling artists, actors, and musicians, including Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Barbra Streisand, Bill Cosby, and Phyllis Diller"

"Off the lobby, the Deco room has mosaic floors, elegant mirrors, and a wrought-iron-and-glass brass gate from Paris; a mix of guests and locals sip their tea here during the day and pull up a stool to the bar at night"

"The lobby bar, Deco Room, is a slick spot for afternoon tea (from late afternoon; closed Sunday) or cocktails on small octagonal tables under yellow lighting"

"The central location means higher-than-average rates, but great bars and restaurants are just around the corner"

"Breakfast, included in the room rate, is served in the lounge, which is also the site of live jazz on some Sundays"

"The North Square restaurant and lounge—an unsung secret with an eclectic menu—is popular with locals and NYU profs"

"The North Square Restaurant offers well prepared meals, and the North Square Lounge continues in its tradition of supporting music and musicians from Bob Dylan and Joan Baez to Bo Diddley and Nora Jones"