Recommendation for out-of-town guest

Does anyone have suggestions for where to take an out-of-towner for drinks on a Wednesday night? I'd prefer somewhere lively in the downtown area that isn't SUPER touristy.
Thanks!

funghirl in Manhattan

best sangria-manhattan

Son Cubano and Flor del Sol serve an incredible champagne sangria.

funghirl in Manhattan

Winebar-ish place for a first date

So, I've been asked to select a venue for a first date, and hoping some of you Chowhounds could offer a few suggestions. Here are the requirements:

1. I'd prefer a winebar or winebar-ish place.
2. It has to be below 14th street. (preferably West Village, East VIllage, LES, NoLita or SoHo.)
3. It has to offer some personal space. (Nothing more uncomfortable than having a neighboring table eavesdrop on awkward first-date conversation.)

Any ideas?

funghirl in Manhattan