Down South, New York

Down South -

For many first-time visitors to Down South, there may not be much in the way of buzz or anticipation. It is, after all, the downstairs space of Southpaw, the Brooklyn music stronghold, opened mainly for busy nights at the main space upstairs (and occasionally for private parties). As an overflow bar for a busy music venue, the space is serviceable at best. The interior design presents a too-obvious, too-tiny war bunker theme; perhaps it’s appropriate considering the aggression it’ll take to get a drink at the overcrowded and lightly staffed bar. Lounge seating is available (if you’re lucky to snag it), but it’s hardly comfortable, as you’ll be screaming to hear yourself think and tripping over couches as you push against the sweaty wall-to-wall mass of humanity. Projectors and speakers broadcast the band as they perform upstairs, but that’s hardly a notable amenity considering you paid the same cover as the upstairs patrons watching the live show. Stay in the main space if you can. And if you’re not even there for the music, you’re wasting your time; there are better dive bars just down the street.