Review

Moroccan-themed lounges are a dirham a dozen. But the owners of Taj have installed yet another one on the Lower East Side nonetheless, Katra New York. Looking to instill a laidback vibe that's more pub than pasha, general manager Christopher Collins plays chill European techno and Middle Eastern hip-hop from his iPod during the generous happy hour. That sense of relaxed intimacy is furthered at Katra New York by the pillow-strewn couches in the four latticed nooks illuminated by pendant lamps, imposing copper lights, and candled lanterns—all imported from Morocco. Whether you're downstairs at a second bar with hanging carpets from the Atlas mountains or upstairs in the lofted dining area, be sure to check out the fusion menu. Katra New York was designed by Jonathan Lindenauer of Jean Georges, it's got tasty burger alternatives such as spiced beef patties and a merguez sandwich. You can wash it all down with the Katra Cooler, a frothy sesame-like blend of green-tea vodka, pineapple juice and mint.