(the?) manhattans

Jack Krohn wrote: Did his bars in Manhattan have one?

No, although I only visited the second incarnation of Siberia (several times), not the subway version.

I'm disappointed to hear about the changes. I have only been once, pre-buzzer, and found it an extraordinarily friendly place...albeit a bit empty for a Thursday. Received a few free drinks from Tracy, was a big fan of sweet bartender (I think his name was Dustin--he was very interested in learning more about the neighborhood and those who live here). I drunkenly and happily told all my friends we should go more often, but we never did. I'll try to get there tonight or tomorrow...it's like 200 ft away from my door so if it's closed I won't be too out of my way.

Subject: If you want to procure

Hepatitis or coke this is the place to be. Seriously there is a leaning tower of empty bottles near the bathroom and the glasses look like they haven't been washed since opening night. Mold, roaches and fruit flies seem to be the theme here. I was there for less than ten minutes before the owner was hitting on me and asking me if I wanted a bump.

i dunno. i love it. i hope it doesn't close.

i can totally understand the pretentious vibe everyone gets from the outside, but i have to disagree with the "keeping out the black folks" thing that's been tossed around. the crowd has been racially mixed almost every time i've walked in, and everyone usually ends up talking to each other and hanging out.

from my experience, the awkwardness of the place (the newspaper, the dinginess, the fact that the last bartender quit by trashing the place and breaking bottles everywhere) is what gets everyone talking to each other and making friends. a couple nights ago someone came in and said, "why's it always like the twilight zone in here?" the parents are gone/no one's in charge feel.

obviously, this also has the effect of making the place look outwardly unfriendly, and maybe that will kill it. i can't speak for tracy's intentions, but i know i feel more welcome in there than i do at a lot of older bars in the neighborhood.