EAST VILLAGE — Don't be surprised to see Superman and Catwoman downing beers at the local bar this weekend.
In celebration of New York's annual Comic Con this week, more than a dozen East Village businesses will be hosting a comic-themed pub crawl using a new iPhone app that will direct costume-clad fans to drink deals around the neighborhood.
The Comic Crawl and the app 7 Bucks, developed by an East Village resident, will allow patrons to bounce around to local watering holes in superhero garb from 2 to 10 p.m., grabbing $7 drink-and-food specials as well as classic comic books with their purchases.
"It is incredibly simple. It locates you and shows you what you can get around you for seven bucks," said the app's co-creator Adam Weiss, 28.
So far, 16 businesses — ranging from the bar Professor Thom's to sausage joint Wechsler's Currywurst & Bratwurst — have signed on for the crawl, which is not limited to only pints of beer.
Participants can also find deals — such as salted caramel and Ferrero Rocher gelato with a double shot of espresso at Fresco Gelateria, or bacon-infused tater tots paired a pint of Comic Con-inspired Brooklyn Brewery Defender — all for just $7.
"I am working with places I think are the coolest places in the area," said Weiss, who has lived in the East Village for the past five years. Those wanting to particpate in the crawl only need to download the app.
While patrons can dress up as their favorite comic book heroes, those who choose not to strap on the spandex can still take advantage of the seven fake mustaches available from Alphabets gift store on Avenue A under the deal.
"You go with your friends and get your fake mustaches, and then get your whole adventure going," said Weiss, of his suggested start point for crawlers.
To tie the event back into the comic theme, those buying drink specials can pick up a classic Marvel comic books like Captain America, Iron Man and Thor.
"They are all in good condition," said Weiss, of the 1,100 or so comics he bought from a man on Craiglist to give participants.
As for the 7Bucks app, Weiss said the comic crawl is the first of many deals to come.
Currently, he is focusing on the East Village for finding businesses interested in offering $7 deals, but he hopes to eventually expand its reach across the city and country.
The $7 amount was decided on because it is enough money to attract discount-hungry patrons who would likely return to business after getting the deal, Weiss explained.
"Massive discounts have proven they don't always attract the best customers," he said, "but it is a small enough number that might attract people who are attracted to your brand."
For more information, visit the Comic Crawl Facebook page.
