☞ EAT: Max Soha

This reliable West Harlem restaurant provides a West Village vibe, even though its name refers to the southern regions of central Harlem. Max SoHa is a Columbia student magnet for its bricked, vintage interior with its multi-light windows and reliable Italian menu. Plates such as black ink seafood pasta make this restaurant a standout amongst the many mediocre red sauce restaurants uptown. Visit the ATM before you get here; it's cash only. 1274 Amsterdam Avenue, between 122nd Street and 123rd Street. Tel.(212) 531-2221. Take the 1 train to 125th Street or 116th Street for the more scenic route of Columbia's campus.