You've got a few friends coming into manhattan for two days, and you're in charge of plans for Friday and Saturday nights. 2 guys/2 girls, much closer to being the cast of Sunny in Philadelphia (make that DC instead of PA) than, say, Friends. They've been to NYC before and will visit again, so you don't have to plan any touristy crap.

Where would you take them for dinner/drinks/late night to show them a good time at establishments that locals enjoy (rather than touristy locales)? What would you want them to experience in your city?

go to Pastis for dinner, then the gansevoort hotel for drinks, right across the street. Go way to the top.
I don't think you can go wrong.
[www.pastisny.com]
[www.hotelgansevoort.com]

I agree, the Meatpacking District is hopping.

Also, check Time Out NY for schedules of free outdoor concerts, movies and such.

fab - thanks! We really had a great time at Brass Monkey in the Meatpacking District last year - will likely hit it again this trip. And will def go to the Gansevoort! Great suggestions.