Friday: Dirty Dozen Ping Pong at SPiN

SPiN is a vast, subterranean ping pong lounge with 17 courts, a full bar and a restaurant. 

Beginning at 10:00pm on most Friday evenings, SPiN hosts The Dirty Dozen, a weekly table tennis tournament dubbed "The Greatest Ping Pong Show on Earth." Bleachers are erected around a center table, where spectators gather to watch and cheer on ping pong pros and aspiring amateurs clashing for cash prizes. If the highest level of table tennis competition you've ever witnessed was in a childhood basement or garage, you should definitely check out this tournament for some impressive displays of dexterity.     

In between bouts, hip-hop is pumped through the speakers and dance battles take center stage. These performances can be hit or miss and seem more like filler until the MC does his best Michael Buffer impression to introduce the next contenders. 

If you're a bit self conscious about your own level of ping pong play, this free event draws attention away from the tables that line the perimeter of the space, so you can practice your game in relative privacy. While tables are not cheap during peak hours, there are usually plenty available during the tournament, so grab a drink, watch a round or two and get your game on.  

ESSENTIAL INFO:

-Total Cost: Tables are $29 per half hour, $49 per hour during peak hours. Cocktails are $15 and drafts are $8. Split between a group of four, an hour of play and a couple of beers will run you about $30. Tax and tip included. 

-Tables can be reserved in advance via the website for a steep premium. 

NEARBY:

-Grab a burger at the original Shake Shack around the corner in Madison Square Park. During the fall and winter seasons, lines are usually shorter and heaters are set up for outdoor dining.