Leisure

Ender’s Game

The Best Spots to Break Up with Someone

You put some thought into Valentine’s Day... and now that that’s a distant memory, it may be time to put some thought into ending things. With as little pain—and as much clarity—as possible. Here are the best spots around town to rip off the Band-Aid with minimal drama.

THE LONG GOODBYE

2 Birds 1 Stone

You require: Someplace semiprivate to talk things out. At length, if need be.
You’ll receive: This subterranean cocktail bar complete with several nooks and alcoves, which, you may remember, we also suggested for Valentine’s Day. So you can bring things full circle.

THE QUICK EXIT

Backbar at 9:30 Club

You require: Some way to jettison your date, who talked all through your favorite band’s set.
You’ll receive: The small, loud, mostly concrete bar downstairs, often with DJs and always with good beer. Oh, also with two exits.

THE 3AM OPTION

Kramerbooks & Afterwords

You require: An alternative to going back to their place. Again.
You’ll receive: The classic bookstore-in-front, diner-in-back, open-all-night-on-weekends move. You can always ease them down with a giant slice of chocolate cake... and a self-help book on the way out.

THE SILENT TREATMENT

Corcoran Gallery of Art

You require: Someplace where shouting and general scene-making is frowned upon.
You’ll receive: Yup, a big beaux arts museum filled with priceless art. A museum, in fact, that’s just like you: one that needed a new partner.

THE ONCE MORE FOR OLD TIMES’ SAKE

The Jefferson

You require: A place that allows for some second thoughts.
You’ll receive: A quiet, discreet library—complete with fireplace—right next to the bar, where you can make your intentions known. And rooms upstairs, should your resolve weaken.