When picking a dinner spot, a good rule of thumb for a guaranteed good time is to see where the local industry pros head on their nights off. After all, who knows more about the neighborhood restaurant scene than the people who are running it?

The latest destination that's gotten the downtown cool crew's stamp of approval is Bongos, a Lower East Side gem that's open late and, as its name suggests, always feels like a party.

With the promise of "gala dinners, daily," the buzzy new eatery from owners Michael Beaumont Bray and Noble Harris (the duo behind nightlife hits Kind Regards and Ding-a-ling) has become a go-to for lively and intimate group meals that go from brunch well into the evening. We mean, you can't go wrong with a prawns-and-martinis nightcap among friends.

Sidle up to the curved bar, slide into a shiny black banquette, or snag a table in the backyard atrium or chic private dining nook - every seat at Bongos is the best seat in the house.

Click through for a peek inside!

[Photos courtesy Bongos]

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