Meeting people in NYC?

If you find someone of interest in Starbucks, the library, or wherever you hang out, just go up to the person and say hi. That will break the ice. Next, ask if you can join the person. If the person says no, say "No problem," and go about your business. If the person says, "Sure," and go from there. That's how I meet people and make friends when I go out.

I've never had any deep appreciation for any of the people I've met by chance in this city, but I do know a few people in relationships who met their boyfriends at parties or bars that they frequented - so obviously making a connection with strangers by chance is not impossible. I'm not put off by the idea, just haven't met anyone amazing through the process just yet. I know people who go to trivia nights at bars to meet people and socialize, and that sort of thing seems to work because everyone goes there with the same motives. In the past I've done things like attend salsa lessons or take French classes and that sort of thing tends to result in new friendships or at least a bit of after-class socializing.

What about some of the established NYC clubs - such as the NYAC or the Lotos or the Harvard Club? Are these still generally used, or do you think of them as hallmarks of a much older, privileged generation and therefore somewhat irrelevant?

@ajadedidealist I agree with BroadwayBk a common interest like a yoga class offers a better chance for meeting other folk in the city rather than random encounters on the street or in a bar/cafe/restaurant. I have made all my friends in NYC through 'the friend of friends' mode and so far its worked for me though I have friends who have actively tried the various meet up groups in NYC-http://www.meetup.com/ btw there seem to be quite a few geared for UES residents.

If I were looking for someone, I would not look in a bar. I don't trust those places. People tend to go to those places to drink to get drunk, or to just hang out. They aren't looking for a real relationship. Just maybe a one-night stand. I would rather go to a Meetup group meeting, or night class.