Under the shadows of the Red Line tracks, curious onlookers will only see the dark exterior and the black curtains of this corner bar. Only a small, white neon sign identifies it as, "The Zoo." This is the latest incarnation of what were once Twisted Spoke and Brody’s on Clark. Those who choose to enter this animal house of red neon lights, booze and beats may be pleased to find it a happy medium between the countless sports bars and the trendy dance clubs that dominate the Wrigleyville and Lakeview nightlife.

The bar's small dining area is set on the north wall with a handful of small tables and a large striped leather bench where diners have a prime view of the nightly DJs spinning the best and most heart-pounding of rave and techno music behind a leopard-print wall on any given weekend. Though the menu consists of the standard bar cuisine, it is obvious the Zoo isn't much of a grazing area – it's more of a watering hole for those looking to quench their thirst with $5 domestic beers and bar special shooters like TruBlood, a fruity mixture of vodka and grenadine.

From the dark front room, walk through a slightly hidden hallway and into an even darker room lined with velvet couches and animal portraits. Here, while camouflaged in darkness, you can feel free to let your wild side take over.

Zoo visitors should flock to this late night habitat to unleash their inner beast, tame that hunger, or simply to enjoy the sights.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Kimber Solana