While the title Ulysses may conjure up thoughts of modernist literature, the financial district's bar/restaurant local, by the same name, is not nearly as serious or dense as James Joyce's novel. That's not to say, however, that it doesn't resemble the many dank and eerie pubs you envisioned while flipping through the pages of this classic. With the lighting at a bare minimum and dark wood seeming to cover every aspect of the interior, Ulysses is an establishment where anonymity is possible and no one will bother you even after a few too many brews. The bartenders are to the sprawling countertop as captains to a ship, distributing beer on tap with the assurance of deck hands. But if you're not in the mood for barstool seating, an adjacent room offers large wooden tables and wait service. In keeping with the atmosphere, we recommend the sirloin burger and maybe some wings or nachos for starters. If you're in the mood for lighter fair, opt for the Agean or the chowder and don’t be surprised if just a salad fills you up; at Ulysses, not only is the food surprisingly tasty for a pub, but the prices are extremely reasonable and the portions are beyond expected-a sure sign that fashion magnate turned restaurateur Frank Cassano has succeeded in his attempt to combine great food with a fun atmosphere. So if you’re going to make the worthwhile trek down to the financial district, plan to go around happy hour when tables line the outside alleyway and suits fill the enchantingly
