Go to a sushi bar called the Angel's Share. They shake your drinks right at the table. that was the highlight of my trip a few years ago, and i'd go back for sure. It's on the 2nd floor
I also went to a german place called zumschneider. It was pretty relaxed and the food was good. the beer glasses are big, which was fun. www.zumschneider.com
Ive been there only once before and did the usual touristy crap that all tourists do the first time in NYC so Im looking for different or more unique ideas for stuff to do there. Already got a yankee game lined up since last time i went to a mets game so thats already taken care of. I will be there with GF by the way.
Post up for K robs!
Go to PDT (please don't tell). Its a speakeasy type of place, they serve delicious drinks. You have to make reservations and the place itself is tricky to find. They don't have any signs, you go through this phone booth andthen the hostess comes out and leads you to your booth/table. One of the best places I've ever been to.
Also, +1 on the sushi samba. Check out "the bodies museum". You mentioned the Burroughs, I'd go to the taxi bar or beer garden in queens. Check out Astoria-qns very european and its only 5-10 min train ride from the city.