If you don't relish the pulsing grind and Red Bull-swigging analysts pervading the club scene, chances are Sonotheque will rock your boat. A favorite of both discriminating locals with honed techno chops and more easygoing types looking for a good scene, this East Village lounge attracts a solid roster of name-powered acts like Diplo and Ellen Allien, as well as local hotshots, resident spinners and global fare.
One of its biggest bonuses is the state-of-the art acoustic design, delivered with serious mod style. The sleek interior feels like an underground tunnel, with cement floors, low lighting and minimal decor. Hipsters and beat connoisseurs perch on clusters of geometrically perfect sofas or at seats along the lengthy wooden bar. The DJ spins from behind the windowed walls of a submarine-esque booth in the middle of the room: Some wish that the artists were more connected to the crowd, but most agree that it looks pretty damn cool in there.
The drink menu keeps it real by offering up lowbrow PBR alongside cocktails that are surprisingly cheap ($5-$10), large and blessedly strong. You might not need the social lube for the dance floor here, but you'll likely need it to kick-start conversation about minimal techno vs. micro-house. If that doesn't work, though, feel free to lose yourself in the indie flicks or anime selections playing on flatscreen panels above the bar as you soak up some mind-blowing music.
Check out Mondays for resident hip-hop and reggae DJs, or catch the monthly Africa HI-FI event. Cover is generally $10-$15; show up early on weekends if you're not keen on standing in line.
Reviewed By: Julia Steinberger
