I've always gravitated toward those establishments which give me that "only in New York" feeling, so I'll review a lot of places which are unique or maybe even just strange. I'm also almost hyper-sensitive to the atmosphere of a place. If something about my environment is off I'll know it on a base physical level level, usually before I'm aware of it consciously. A pint of Guinness, can be ruined by a headache brought on by a Phil Collins song, or an otherwise spectacular dinner can be wrecked by a stomach cramp instigated by a tope and mauve felt tablecloth.

That said, I can also be a fan of a place that revels in its awfulness like Hogs and Heffers or Cherry Tavern. Although I loath places where no one seems to be in on the joke, like Turtle Bay or Bar 89. I guess it's like the way a wink at the camera from a B movie actor can let you off the hook and allow you to enjoy Toxic Avenger in all its glory.