This week we review Thunder Jackson's--better known for the fact that it sells 40-oz bottles of High Life (complete with brown bag) than the fact that the bartenders are apparently fire monsters.

Hits: While your favorite game flashes across the flat-screen TVs, you'll chomp some of the finest bar food this side of Washington Square Park.

Misses: Novelty aside, do you really want to pay $12 for a 40-ounce of Miller High Life served in a brown paper bag? You're better off heading to a bodega and sitting on someone's stoop.

Read our full editorial review of Thunder Jackson's, then peruse other New & Notable bar reviews or check out our list of spots that are too new to review (but not too new to get you hammered).

Popped into the Village's newest cantina, Cabrito (50 Carmine St), the other night to suss out the scene. In a word: caliente. Not feeling tequila, I bypassed the margarita-like drinks and found my new best amigo: the hot and dirty martini, a combo of vodka, olive juice and pickled jalapeno. Picante, salado, delicioso. But cuidado: it's muy fuerte, so more than one will definitely bring out the borracho in you.

Lelabar, the sexy, civilized wine retreat on Hudson Street, became a favorite of mine for its vast wine list and mellow atmosphere, but mostly for its upscale selection of snacks. Now in addition to offering charcuterie, cheese and chocolate, patrons can slurp oysters between sips for a buck a bivalve on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Considering places like Pearl, Balthazar and Blue Ribbon charge twice as much--$12 for a half dozen--that's a sweet deal. Suggested pairings: perhaps a sancerre or dry riesling?

This week we review the Rusty Knot, a sizzling new boite that comes courtesy of alums from Freemans and the Spotted Pig. The Knot's rum-based tiki drinks, maritime theme, upscale bar snacks and dirt-cheap beers are drawing throngs of hip boozers to West Street daily, but is it worth it?

Hits: In a setting Captain Ahab would adore, The Knot offers wildly affordable libations and classy food that belies its bar-kitchen origins.

Misses: If you're opposed to traveling to the edge of Manhattan to sip so-so beer and sugary cocktails while being elbowed aside by inconsiderate hipsters and celebs, then the Rusty Knot may not be the place for you.

Read our full editorial review of the Rusty Knot, then peruse other New & Notable bar reviews or check out our list of spots that are too new to review (but not too new to get you hammered).