NOW CLOSED...Formerly: Mere blocks from the Board of Trade, Crocodile Lounge holds down a day job as an after-work hang; during the week, traders clamber in for chicken wings, calamari and cocktails. At night the lounge morphs into any of the following, depending on the day: showcase for up-and-coming hip-hop artists (Tuesday), a venue for house music or comedy (Wednesday) and a late-night dance destination (Saturday). Despite the "anything goes" mentality, a few ground rules exist: Sneakers and baseball caps are generally not welcome, and guests must be prepared to shell out a cover charge of $5-$20.
The Lounge combines crocodile-chic decor with Gotham City glitz: brassy, faux croc skin upholsters the banquettes; a curvy, metal fixture crowning the bar resembles fins on a sea monster; and hues of amphibian green, gold and chocolate brown lurk in every corner. Exposed brick walls lend an industrial feel to the space while sinuous metal chandeliers and twisted sculptures spell out a downtown vibe.
When it comes time to imbibe, pick your poison from a full bar. The food menu features all the regular bar appetizers and includes sandwiches ($7-$8) like Italian chicken and fried white fish. Pizzas ($12) come with toppings such as buffalo or barbeque chicken, and leafy choices include the crab cake salad ($8).
Reviewed By: Jennifer Berg
