The temperatures are soaring, tropical storms are brewing and the election is getting crazier by the day. This would be a very good time to head to a bar, not only for a drink (or two) in icy air conditioning, but to seek the solace that comes in a dark and sexy place that comprises a world all its own, populated with like-minded souls and electric with an anything-can-happen atmosphere. In a great bar, you can share laughter with friends, dance in ways you never dreamed you could, meet the love of your life, swap stories with a perfect stranger or just pour out your heart to an understanding bartender. (Bars on our list are either stand-alone establishments or spaces in restaurants  that are physically separate and spritually distinct from the dining room.)