Dear NYC Nightlife, Step up the prep.

This isn't so much a Preppy Pick as it is a problem and a proposition.

Last January, a few girlfriends and I had drinks at a place called East Village Yacht Club. It was exactly how it sounds, sans water. Sailing trophies, striped banquettes, ship wheels... perfection. We were absolutely delighted with the experience and decided that we should celebrate my birthday (January 25, write it down) there a few weeks later. I called to try and make a reservation, but no one answered. That should have been my first clue.

Yet, when I tumbled out of a cab on the eve of my big day, I was rather stunned to see that EVYC was no more. The lights were off and the doors locked. The golden anchor that used to sit outside was nowhere to be seen. I stood in the middle of the street and cried until my wonderful friends dragged me to a nearby bar, fed me lots of vodka, and ensured that the DJ played Thriller (the TAG classic).

Come to find out that EVYC moved to Bowery. I walked by the so-called new address a few months ago. The lack of nautical flags gave me the impression that it didn't quite make it in that location either.

Fast-forward to last night. Had plans to meet my friend CJM at Country Club. The menu and ambiance sounded reminiscent of EVYC. There was hope.

I arrived at 248 W. 14 Street a bit early. There was no sign, so I peeked into the dim foyer. It certainly gave the impression of what I had imagined; the small room contained leather chairs, a secretary's desk and another set of double doors. I found it odd that no one seemed to be entering or exiting. A homeless man sat on the ground drinking out of a Subway plastic cup.

Hmmm. Not very preppy.

After a few more minutes of waiting for my pal and pondering the situation, I decided to go inside and check it out. As I pulled on the doors, my fears were confirmed. They were locked.

My first thought? NOT AGAIN!

First EVYC, now this? Apparently I have rotten luck with venues that end in the word "Club".

NYC readers, I need help. I love Dorrian's late night as much as the next cableknit clad broad, but a gal has to change it up every once in awhile. Is EVYC still in business? If so, where is it? (Their website says that they are located at 1st and 1st, which obviously hasn't been so for quite some time.) Has anyone actually been to this Country Club? And more importantly, where's a JGIWC to go when she's seeking a classic cocktail and some stimulating conversation?

Email me at jgiwc.tag@gmail.com if you have any suggestions and save this girl from an impending rut. :)