Hillside
70 Hudson Ave., at Water St., Vinegar Hill; 718-522-7957
The sophomore venture from Vinegar Hill House owners Jean Adamson and Sam Buffa channels the same laid-back, nature-obsessed Northern California vibe as the couple’s restaurant, but with a slightly beachier twist. The café tables are cut from redwood, there’s an abundance of tropical plants, and the bar is fronted by colorful wooden broomsticks. Bargoers choose from an 80-bottle wine list (from $8 per glass and $32 per bottle), organized by their geological characteristics (island wines, mountain wines, etc.) as opposed to nation of origin. In true Vinegar Hill fashion, there’s an emphasis on natural wines from little-known producers, and the food, like roasted bone marrow with roe and dill, doesn’t disappoint. Commit the “Oyster Hours” to memory: Every Tuesday through Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Sundays from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., a half-dozen oysters and a glass of Muscadet are just $10.