Been lurking but just signed up and wanted some input.

Coming to NYC to visit a couple friends, going to be about 8 of us total. Looking for a fun place for a group of mid/late twenties guys and gals to get some food and cocktails before a night on the town. Fun places, not too snobby, maybe a good happy hour? Not really picky on the food, definitely not 4 star, maybe bar food or tapas? open to any and all suggestions!