Flashy meets chill lounge-cum-club and live music venue, designed by buzz-worthy architect Jeremiah Johnson. Although the plethora of plush seating in the front bar makes the space seem ideal for chitchat, blaring videos on several flat-screen TVs easily turn intimate conversation into a shouting match. Nonetheless the place remains relatively calm until about 11 p.m. when the party people start rushing in in droves.

Live entertainment ranging from comedy to local bands livens up the back space most nights of the week; call the club for details. Weekends draw larger crowds and the nightclub area (free during the week) charges a $5 cover. In the front lounge, videos from the the past few decades flicker in plasma paradise, while the dance floor is souped up with songs from The Killers, Gwen Stefani, Paul Oakenfold and Depeche Mode. Wednesday nights host an Open Mic: Rockstar M.I.X. Sign up begins at 7pm and the first act goes on at 8pm.

You'll find a slew of top shelf liquors and about 13 beers on tap. The "global bar food" comes from Chef Bob Zrenner (famous for his finger lickin' contributions to Tru, North Pond and X/O). Trot around the culinary world with spring rolls ($4) or antipasta ($9) and grab some baja fish tacos ($7) as an entree. More traditional fare includes fries ($3) and mini burgers ($8), but even these barstool staples are peppered with gourmet touches; the fries come with truffle mayonnaise and burgers are served with bleu cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg