The SoBe nightlife scene is now underground at FDR at Delano, the hotel’s new subterranean space, named after the hotel’s presidential namesake.
As over-the-top as other clubs on South Beach, the space is a bit more intimate with Old-world elegance and comfort. Cocktails and internationally renowned music acts and DJ’s are a given here.
Check it out at 1685 Collins Ave., 305-672-2000.
Stroll down 23rd Street in the heart of Wynwood’s Arts District and an orange sign with the word Cafeina will undoubtedly stand out since it’s hanging in front of a non-descript building in the mostly warehouse-filled district.
Step in though and it’s anything but. Part lounge/restaurant/gallery, Cafeina is many things to many people. Sure it’s all three but as a lounge it is the type of place that the locals love and is a great discovery for those not in the know.
The action here happens both indoors, among dimly lit chandeliers and candlelight on comfy chairs, and outdoors where the dance floor shares space with lovely patio furniture and even hammock beds. The DJ here knows how to mix the perfect blend of club/dance music that sets the mood and matches the vibe.
Cafeina is located at 297 NW 23 St., Miami, FL 305-438-0792 www.cafeinamiami.com
Since today’s reality celebrities are always lumped in with A-listers, let’s consider Kendra Wilkinson (of reality television’s “Kendra on Top” on WE TV) stopping in at SoBe’s newest nightclub Mokai for a night of partying with girlfriends, a true celeb sighting.
The scene at Mokai is typical South Beach. Scantily clad dancers, sometimes alone but many times in pairs (or trios), set the scene for a night of revelry and debauchery like only SoBe can deliver. DJ’s pump the house music nightly, since the nightclub scene really never dies, while bottles of bubbly pop all night in the VIP section.
Weeknight parties here have kitchy names like Ransom Mondays, Relapse Wednesdays and Weekend Warrior Fridays. On Saturdays Gino G., Mike Russ, S1 spin while Weisson plays drums.
Mokai is located at 235 23 St., Miami Beach, FL, 305-673-1409, www.mokaimiami.com
One of Downtown Miami’s hottest hotels is surprisingly enough, a fabulous nightclub spot. The Fifty Ultra Lounge at Viceroy Miami is stiff competition for those clubs on the other side of the Causeway (meaning South Beach).
Appropriately named for its location, the view alone is unmatched by any other club because it sits on the building’s rooftop meaning unobstructed water and skyline views as far as the eye can see. The pool, which serves as the centerpiece here, is no slouch either, adding that perfect Miami touch.
FIFTY promises to bring you a “One-of-a-kind rooftop lounge with a fresh new look on Miami’s Nightlife scene.” There’s always something happening on this rooftop with Happy Hour, guest DJ’s, special Ladies’ Night events and Sunday afternoon pool parties. Celebrities are frequently spotted here so keep your eyes peeled.
Viceroy Miami is located at 485 Brickell Avenue, 305-503-4417 www.viceroymiami.com
Yet another velvet rope nightclub has debuted in South Beach. This one’s called Dream and features all that’s come to be expected from a high energy, open ’til the wee hours hot spot in what’s known as the American Riviera.
Like most of the nightclubs in the area, this one’s on Washington Avenue, the hotbed strip for late night party hounds. Dream’s decadent interior is filled with obligatory disco balls, multi-colored flourescent lighting, comfy tufted leather booths where celebrities and other high-rollers are sure to enjoy bottle service throughout the night.
The nightly themes, like Fantasy Wednesdays, Eyecandy Saturdays and Fubar Fridays seem to have a recurring theme. It’s pure South Beach decadence for sure. It’s what’s to be expected around these parts.
Dream is located at 1532 Washington Ave., 305-674-8018, www.dreammia.com
Grand Central is hitting the Downtown Miami scene with a bang, becoming the newest venue in the area to provide live music and a rollicking good time. Providing a place where music lovers can enjoy original bands and performers is first and foremost to the folks running Grand Central.
The line-up is non-stop and features DJ’s playing a blend of hip hop, Latin, and dance tunes. Amber Rose, model and ex girlfriend of hip hop artist Kanye West hosts a party here for her new beau Wiz Khalifa and bands like The Battles and Caramelos de Cianuro join other newcomers on the scene.
It’s a great deal too with minimal cover charges drink specials almost every night.
Grand Central is located at 697 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 305-377-2277 www.grandcentralmiami.com
Event though it’s upstairs in it’s home building, the Electric Pickle/Bolero Room is the underground party everyone wants to be at in the Wynwood area.
Wednesday to Saturday nights, the party’s on here. DJ’s A-Train, Mr. Brown and Sire Esq. are joined by special guests on Wednesday nights as they play a mix of hip-hop, funk, soul, classics and reggae. Stop Drop ‘N Roll Thursdays DJ Gran Torino and guests play rockabilly, swing, twang, blues and dance jazz. There’s no cover this night and drink are half price.
For Disco Machine Fridays it’s deep house soul, heavy funk boogie and classic dance floor faves and also featuring live acts and DJ’s and on Saturdays live acts, international DJ’s and half-priced drinks are part of Get Some Saturdays.
Electric Pickle is located at 2826 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL
Enjoy a veritable feast for the senses each Sunday at the Dupont Circle FRESHFARM Market. During peak season, there are more than 30 farmers offering items including fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, fish, baked goods and more. Samples are always available. Market hours are 9 a.m. -1 p.m. April thru December; 10 a.m. -1p.m. January thru March.
It doesn’t get any swankier than a W Hotel and with the crowds this place is attracting, especially on South Beach, a nightclub is pretty much a given so the Wall Lounge is where it’s at in this place.
Decked out to look like something out of the 1960s, with funky psychedelic lights, retro leather couches around intimate round tables, perfect for groups wanting bottle service and circular blacklight inspired images projected throughout complete the space.
DJ Irie plays the tunes here along with his other contemporaries like the legendary Paul Oakenfold who is known to make appearances here as well.
The Wall Lounge is located inside the W South Beach at 2201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL
A departure from the usual high energy dance clubs of South Beach, rocker Tommy Lee’s, drummer for Motley Crue, Rokbar is the ultimate hangout place for the hard rock crowd.
Something’s going on here every night. Insomniac Thursdays; Dirty, Sexy Rock & Roll Fridays, Fresh 2 Death and DJ Tommy Ryk Saturdays and house music every Tuesday. Celebrities like actor Ryan Gosling and bands touring through Miami are regulars at Rokbar where Crue pics adorn the walls behind the bar which features rocked lighting of black leather suspended by metal chains.
Rokbar is located at 1905 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL
Downtown Miami’s got a river running through it and bars are now lining the area making it a place to see and be seen with a killer view to boot. Finnegan’s on the River packs them in on any given night after all, it’s great for a mid-week happy hour, Friday night end-of-the-week outing and Saturday night hot spot.
In typical Miami fashion, Sunday is a huge day at Finnegan’s when boaters are invited to park and join in on the pool party. The drink specials alone (c’mon, $3 and $5 cocktails are unheard of around here) are incentive enough to party at Finnegan’s.
Happy Hour is Monday to Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays it’s the perfect spot to watch a late afternoon college game and stay to party the night away.
Finnegan’s on the River is located at 401 SW 3 Avenue, Miami, FL
The iconic Cameo Nightclub in the heart of South Beach on gritty Washington Avenue stands out among all other clubs on this famous strip. The old-style neon movie marquee can be seen from blocks away, alerting clubgoers that inside awaits an awesome night.
Once known as the Cameo Theatre, hence the marquee, there’s something going on every night. A combination of live performances and first-rate DJs including Max Vangeli, Saeed Younan and Chocolate Puma take turns on the stage and behind the booth to excite the huge crowds that gather to dance the night away to their pulsating rhythms. Cameo is also one of the spots to catch the latest masters during the yearly Winter Music Conference.
And it wouldn’t be a club on South Beach without some specialty weeknight parties like Stars and Stilettos on Tuesdays.
Cameo is located at 1445 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL
One thing is for sure, visit a trendy hotel on South Beach and it’s very likely that they’ll use every inch of their space to provide multiple experiences for clubgoers and guests. The Shore Club is no exception where they utilize their interior and exterior space to the max, providing a nightclub experience among the palm trees as well as under the hot club lights.
The Redroom Garden surrounding the pool area is set up as an outdoor living room with Asian-style furniture and landscaped gardens filled with colorful perennials, bouganvilleas and passion flowers. It’s a true tropical oasis.
In keeping with the red theme, the interior Redroom is awash in the fiery color from the red lacquered teak floor, red walls that glow with intimate lighting and luxurious red bar stools. The comfy couches are filled with red-patterned cushions. No wonder local and national celebrities love to stop in and party here. Of course, a party on South Beach wouldn’t be complete without a DJ, they play here pretty much every night, Sunday afternoons there’s always a pool party.
SkyBar at the Shore Club is located at 1901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL
A lounge is the last thing anyone going to party the weekend away on South Beach would put on their list of “must visit” hot spots, except when it comes to Purdy Lounge. This is a definite add-on.
Located a bit off the beaten path and marching to the beat of its own drummer, the mood at Purdy is the opposite of a high-energy, thumping nightclub. Here it’s all about board games, pool tables, lava lamps and best of all, reasonable drink prices. For patrons who still want a bit of that high-end SoBe atmosphere, they do have bottle service and a VIP area but for sure the “lounge” part of Purdy is where it’s at. Five deejays spin favorites that keep people singing along and dancing, it’s all about crowd pleasers here.
Reggae lovers should visit on Monday nights to hear live performances by Jean P. Jam, Thursdays ladies drink free 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. and in true SoBe style, there’s a party on Sunday nights too called Chocolate Sundays with drink specials and house deejays rotating each week.
Purdy Lounge is located at 1811 Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach, FL
If you feel like you just stepped into an episode of “The Hills,” it’s probably because you were rubbing elbows with Brody Jenner and Kristin Cavallari at Las Palmas Nightclub in Hollywood.
If you seemed to make it through the line and past the doorman, consider yourself lucky; Las Palmas is taking over the Hollywood nightlife scene and is becoming THE place to frequent. Ever since Las Palmas had a nice little face lift, the place is swarming with celebrities and those willing to purchase private tables.
Though the lines are long and the guest lists are crucial, Las Palmas has become known for featuring unbelievable DJs that deliver amazing music. If all the dancing and squeezing through crowds has got you hot and bothered, Las Palmas features two outdoor patios that shouldn’t be missed.
Even after a long night as Las Palmas, the h.wood family was kind enough to set up a taco stand out front, to fulfill any late night munchie needs.
Since most famous music institutions in Los Angeles are located on Sunset Boulevard, it’s no wonder that the Roxy Theatre has become apart of that family. Ever since the days of live shows from Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen, the Roxy has become a must for up-and-coming musicians and those who feel like giving a little love back to the fans.
The Roxy itself is an intimate space with open dance floor and bar. Though most of the music performed at the Roxy is loud enough to blow out an eardrum, the Theatre has also become a place where comedy shows and performance art can take place.
Though the Roxy makes for the perfect night out in L.A., many visitors boast about ‘On The Rox’, an after-hours bar upstairs with DJ and all night debauchery. If you wish to make it out alive without getting bombarded by crowds, park across the street in the open lot, especially if you are visiting on the weekend.
East meets West at club owner Kostas Kouremenos’ latest Denver venture: Zen Ultra Lounge. Giant buddhas and sleek red lighting provide the eastern organic ambiance, but there’s nothing zen about this place. Dj’s create killer re-mixes of the latest Lady GaGa hit, while a sexy crowd fill up the bottle service-only tables and darkly lit dance floor. The Asian infusion club is as impressive with its decor as it is with its hot clientele.
Established in 1946 and a staple of the Coral Gables community, hangin’ out at The Bar (once known as the Hofbrau Haus) is almost a rite of passage for folks who like to party in “The City Beautiful.” But don’t be fooled by the fancy surroundings because this place is no pretense and all good times. The brews are cold, the grub is great and there’s a jukebox that won’t quit, it’s legendary.
There’s something going on nightly here and they know how to start the week off right with 2 for 1 specials on Mondays. Karaoke’s on Tuesday, DJ’s Boe and Icue take over Wednesday through Friday and Saturday there’s live music.
And if all that’s not enough, they keep patrons happy by offering a “Hangover Brunch” on Saturdays and Sundays, after all they want to keep everyone coming back for more so what better way than to feed ’em.
So the weekend comes, Friday and Saturday are party nights, except on unconventional South Beach, where they play by their own rules and kick the weekend off on Thursdays. That’s when things get hopping at SET
on Lincoln Road, a high-energy nightclub where DJ’s take their booth on Thursday nights for “Contagious Behavior” and keep the party going through Sunday night.
Fridays are hosted by legendary Beach club promoters Eric Millon and Michael Capponi and with South Beach being a mecca for fashion, don’t be surprised when events pairing the hottest tunes with the latest fashions trends, like Christian Louboutin, are a given.
The dark and heavy wood bar that commands Waxy O’Connor’s and is its centerpiece was placed at the heart of the bar and eatery to remind patrons they’re in an Irish pub and the 7,000-square-foot unit is authentic, it was built entirely in Ireland and shipped over to the United States.
The 20 brews and ales on tap and plenty more by the bottle are another dead giveaway that this is a place for drinking, eating, hanging with friends and especially catching just about any sporting event. They’ve got seventeen 50″ flat screen televisions so everyone can be watching their favorite sport or team at any given time.
Offering live music is another plus here. When the deejay’s not mixing up tunes, there’s someone playing it live at Waxy’s. The amazing view of Miami’s Downtown skyline and historic Miami River make for great waterfront drinking and gazing.
Waxy O’Connor’s is located at 690 SW 1st Court, Miami, FL
If you are hot for exciting nightlife 
and fashion inspired décor, you might want to make your way over to Haute nightclub, the newest edition to the West Hollywood clubbing scene. The reason everyone is buzzing about this new nightclub isn’t just its perfect location and stylish feel; it’s because Haute is the new epicenter for Hollywood events and will soon become the home to many celebs.
Located on Robertson Boulevard, Haute features drinks, dining, dancing and an unbelievable patio. This place caters to everyone, from the clubber to the lounger, and is making a big splash in the Los Angeles nightlife scene. If you are in the mood to bring a little class to your night out on the town, you might as well make it haute.
There’s no better place to feel like a rock star than Whiskey Blue. Of course the weekends are maddening but the weekdays aren’t too shabby either. Wednesday typically attracts the business crowd but there’s nothing boring about making dollars.
As a hotel guest, it’s easy to access the rooftop party from within the hotel but it might be worth entering it from the street just to ride up in elevator with the couch and cross the bridge to excitement.
The bar is a stylish slither so it’s only natural to meet people. Small bites like the yummy tuna spring rolls and lamb sausage pizza from Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Market downstairs are available until 10pm. Move past the bar and the space opens up slightly. Wood-paneled walls and yacht-club inspired furnishings create a warm and intimate vibe and then, the DJ is barely noticeable all the way in the back. There’s also seating parallel to the bar, hence the slithering gap.
Now if a city view and fresh air is a must, take the right just past the bar, through a glass door and behold a clear view of the city. To really soak in the al fresco vibe, though, go to the other side and stay awhile. Cabanas divided by a mini-garden of sorts, well shrubbery and other trappings of nature, work for all seasons thanks to heat lamps.
Drinks are seasonal and pretty standard for most bars in the Gerber Group stable. The Bubblicious, made with bubblegum vodka, is super fun. Mojitos come in multiple flavors, including strawberry, blueberry, mangomint and ginger. And, there’s lots of whiskey too.
It’s a nonstop party at Whiskey Blue. No wonder the beautiful people can’t leave it alone.
Aja is where Kim Zolciak and Kandi Burrus had their joint b-day bash on the Real Housewives of Atlanta, but if highfalutin, pseudo-celebs isn’t your thing, Aja Restaurant and Bar is a hit with all trendy Atlanta diners.
Housed in the former Emeril’s location in Buckhead, its two story frame is adorned with red and black Asian-inspired décor and wall art, of which a 10-foot brass Buddha – straight from Thailand – sits in the middle of the dining room as the main attraction. In the sleek open space, the second floor overlooks the downstairs lounge area where guests can people-gaze from up top.
You can’t have a modern Asian kitchen without the pan-Asian flavors of Dim Sum on the menu, which is just a sample of the 20 diverse cuisines including Chinese (Peking Duck), Thai (Thai Red Curry), Indian, Vietnamese and Japanese. Serving lunch and dinner, enjoy a sushi roll on your work break inside the private dining room, or sip signature Mai Tai’s during after hours while taking in the views of the beautiful Buckhead skyline on the sprawling outdoor lounge, where relaxing is the norm.
Described by its owner as a club-cum-restaurant – this hip establishment takes on a nightclub vibe in the late evening, as an in-house DJ spins your favorite mixes on Friday and Saturday nights.
Insider’s Tip: Offering new weekly specials every week ranging from ½ price bottles of wine on select nights and $5 sushi rolls during limited times, be sure to call ahead or check their website for exclusive discounts.
Finally. From New York to L.A., the Beauty Bar phenom has taken over the Windy City with a splash… of manicured nails, big bouffantes and poreless faces. Combining the loves of women (and thus men searching for women) everywhere, Beauty Bar fuses cocktails and spa services. Add a dose of dance-inspiring beats, superb people-watching and a new set of glossy red nails, and you’ve got: Beauty Bar.
With celeb DJs and special guest performers like Vampire Weekend, Beauty Bar Chicago makes sure to play homage to its host city by bringing back “Spandexx,” once a popular event at the now-closed lounge, Sonotheque, with DJ Moneypenny, Sadie White and Team Bayside (holler to Saved by the Bell). True to form, the bar is retro deliciousness with mod mirrors, vintage posters, a disco ball and fun retro bar chairs.With a changing list of relevant DJs pumping out inspiring beats, and a disco-ball room inspired for dancing only, this manicure lounge slash bar, also doubles as a fab dance club.
With a fresh coat of paint on your paws, a tasty cocktail in your belly and happy memories swirling in your head, consider this: Beauty Bar is available for private parties and you can shop the look at its store (online too) for fun shirts and kitchy gifts.
Thrive Dallas takes the standard nightclub atmosphere and turns it into an event. This establishment claims the Playboy Intimates Model Search, DJ’s Tek-Neek and Joe Vega, and a line of impressive twenty-something outside each week clamoring
to get inside. Thrive is an ideal location to throw a raging private party or have a fun girl/guy’s night out.
Connected to the Crown Plaza Hotel downtown, this club makes it easy to commit to a fun, safe weekend when adding a hotel room into your plans. The restaurant section serves up fine dining and provides the perfect opportunity to eat well before a long night of partying.
Though a nightclub connected to a hotel might not sound as rocking as a stand alone club, Thrive continues to draw large crowds week after week with its good tunes and array of drinks. Be prepared to wait in line from time to time and adhere to the strict dress code-it is always enforced. Thrive is doing just that, and adding to the nightlife that keeps Dallas dancing until dawn.
If you need to forget about your work week and that creep ex-boy/girlfriend that won’t stop calling you, The Barbary is your place for all night dancing, drinking and debauchery. The Barbary has some of the cheapest drinks in town ($2 PBRs are the Philly Special) and 6-nights a week it hosts some of the craziest dance parties you have ever experienced.
Monthly calendars are released on its MySpace page with events happening every night of the week. Sundays are Karaoke nights, Wednesdays are the Bouffant Bangouts featuring 50s and 60s music, and Mondays are the Indie Dance parties. The rest of the month is filled in with a satisfying variety of top-notch dance music. If you’re lucky to be in town, the DJ DeeJay “Madonna Michael Price” shows are a must.
And if you just can’t get in the mood without the disco ball, they have that covered, too.
The newest lifetime member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame is also an It Girl on the Miami social scene. Jamie Jo Harris is one part rock-chic jewelry designer, one part Kylie Minogue-esque singer-songwriter, so when she wants to let loose, it’s always on a dance floor, and more often than not it’s at W South Beach’s new hotspot The Wall.
Jamie Jo told citybuzz that if you’re 
looking for a “great ‘in spot,'” then Wall is one of the elite places to go in Miami. Describing it as “very fresh and chic,” this lounge/club just opened in 2009 and is as sleek a club as the W is a hotel. Outfitted in a gold and black theme and refreshingly high ceilings covered with gold copper mesh, Wall sets the stage for a glamorous night of dancing and bottle service. The dance floor is nearly as spacious as the airy ceiling levels. The ever changing lights of purples, reds and greens against the wall is an added bonus to get you in the mood for a serious night of partying to hip hop and Top 40 mixes. If you’re lucky, you might even catch Jamie Jo behind the DJ booth, spinning the killer mix that has everyone dancing.
As one of the newest nightclubs on SoBe and with VIP events happening every week, Wall’s velvet rope is one of the hardest- and best- to get through.
*** Jamie Jo Harris is a singer-songwriter and founder of jewelry line, Belle Coeur. Jamie Jo’s latest album, In Violet, features the hit single “U Turn Me On,” featuring none other than legendary vocalist Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees.
Before the law ended the good times at the Gold Club, the infamous strip club that scored national headlines, everybody who was anybody was there, and that’s exactly the vibe that the Gold Room resurrects. Still in the exact location that ironically boasted a church after its closing, there’s plenty of prayer-worthy, vintage inspired debauchery on the menu- sans strippers.
Taking its current inspiration from New York and Las Vegas, the Gold Room, with its sexy, dark velvet décor, aims to deliver the ultimate “ultra lounge” experience, even allowing VIPs to look down on the action from the window-encased second floor. It boasts a one of a kind champagne bar and an expansive signature cocktail menu to cure the most luxurious of palates. And, for entertainment, it’s not unusual to catch an aerialist with minimal golden clothing and dancers, outfitted in golden, vintage ensembles with flaming torches, on Saturday nights.
Monday nights are hip-hop cool with producer/music exec Jermaine Dupri typically doing a stint in the DJ booth. LeBron James and Sean “Diddy” Combs have dipped in then but others like Lenny Kravitz, Fred Schneider of the B52s, The Black Eyed Peas’s will.i.am and even Ms. “Tardy for the Party” herself, Kim Zolciak of Real Housewives of Atlanta fame, have popped in on other nights.
This time around, everything that glitters is golden.
Sure, a name like Liz
ard Lounge may not scream “really cool hotspot” that hosts some of the hottest parties and best DJs from around the world every week, but that’s exactly what this Dallas nightclub is all about. From record releases to themed parties to international DJs, Lizard Lounge is the place to go to dance to some of the best mixes in Texas.
Known for harboring electronica talent, Lizard Lounge also gives up-and-coming Dallas spinners a chance to show their stuff- and usually with great reviews. Channeling Lizard Lounge’s inner Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, on Thursday and Sunday Lizard Lounge transforms into Hyde-ish “The Church,” a Neo Gothic, Industrial and Electro party. It sounds crazy, and yes, it is absolutely nuts.
Inching ever closer to an epic status is Mynt Lounge; around for seven years (with no itch in sight!), it’s still going strong. Located ju
st close enough to the heart of South Beach, the place is abuzz with supermodels, celebrities and the local beautiful people. A perfect complement to such crowds, where Cameron Diaz, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, Paris Hilton and Mickey Rourke (to name a few) have all partied, is a tough velvet rope rule whose policy has made it one of the hottest- and hardest- clubs to get into.
Once inside, live performances and stellar DJ’s are a nightly occurrence; and more often than not there’s a VIP event held at this exclusive nightclub. No matter who you are, everyone who gets past the velvet rope is treated like a star at this staple in SoBe.
Though it doesn’t stand for “Mission Impossible,” MI6’s long line may leave you time to figure out its meaning- and who’s inside (hint: Daniel Craig’s employer). Originally Foxtail, the hot, new Santa Monica Boulevard club has started fresh and bumped up the stakes. With an impossible guest list and packed dance floor, you either need to know someone on the list or buy your way in.
The reason for MI6’s skyrocketing popularity is due to its location and setup. Situated on one of L.A’s busiest streets, street parking is actually plausible if you come at the right times. And thanks to its two story location, you can either make your way to the downstairs dance floor or upstairs for bottle service and tables.
Thanks to celebrity partygoers such as Lauren Conrad and Lamar Odom, MI6 has taken the clubbing scene by storm offering multiple bars and an even better DJ. With dark lighting and large crowds, the truest clubbing fans should venture to MI6 where the parties are known to last longer than the closing time of 2 A.M.
Goodbye, Foxtail. Hello, MI6.
Kings of Leon. Death Cab. The Strokes. The
Black Cat’s mission is to bring D.C. locals and visitors the best in live independent music and it’s been succeeding since its opening in 1993. Located in the famous U Street Corridor, the club has served as a staple in Washington DC’s alternative music scene and draws large crowds with its live bands and DJ sets.
Nightly, The Black Cat hosts bands on the local, national, and international levels. Major names include Arcade Fire, Beck, Andrew WK, Korn, Moby, The Killers, Jamiroqui, Foo Fighters, and the list could continue all night. With its cool atmosphere and even cooler bands, The Black Cat is always on the forefront of alternative, independent music.
For San Francisco’s diverse crowd, there’s nothing better than a nightclub that fuses culture as well as it mixes drinks. At Le Colonial in Union Square, romantic France meets 
exotic Vietnam. As evenings go in this city, rarely sticking to the conventional, you’ll fall in love even as you enter from an alley that sparkles with fairy lights and soft neon signs. Relax in the palm and glass-canopied veranda while you wait for your party, or head inside to the downstairs lounge and order yourself an Emerald Buddha: Ciroc Vodka, House Lemongrass sour, and Barritt’s ginger beer on the rocks.
Le Colonial presents local DJ’s on Friday nights and the very popular Lotus Party on Saturdays. Spinning remixes from every generation until 2am with a “for the classy and chic only” dress code, there are no excuse to be a wallflower.
Each year, thousands of people gather to indulge in the legendary event known as Oysterfest. In the past, this has been a one-day event, but its popularity has grown so much that this year Oysterfest has split into two separate events a week apart from each other. For those who can’t make it to the Park Tavern for the mouth-watering fried and steamed oysters on Feb 13th, have no shame, for on the 20th, the Steamhouse Lounge is ready to serve up, hands-down, the best roasted oysters in town. Live music from local bands and DJs, ice cold beer, and brilliant cocktails, get your taste buds ready for the seafood event of the season!
What happens when you open a hip, Euro-infused lounge in the former home of Teddy Roosevelt? You end up with the ultra chic, super unique hotspot known as Eighteenth Street Lounge. Situated just south of trendy Dupont, ESL is known for its velvet ropes and hipster crowd that packs the luxe top three floors of the old school mansion club.
Chic Washingtonians and sophisticated European partiers sit, mingle and sip as DJ’s spin hip Middle Eastern, Italian and Indian-centric beats that echo from the dark, narrow hallways of the comfortably posh venue. Studded with functional antique fireplaces, gilded sconces and twinkling chandeliers that cast a soft glow, ESL exhibits modern glamour with touches of period décor to showcase the mansion’s turn of the century roots.
As the beats increase and the drinks flow, patrons crowd the living room-esque dance floor and overflow to the spacious outdoor roof patio in the warmer months. Wander onto different floors for a change of scenery and music varieties – there tends to be a DJ on one floor and a jazz band or live performer on another.
Insider Tip: With live performances almost every day of the week and the lounge’s urban chic vibe, there’s usually a cover charge between $5-$15 after 10PM, Wednesday and Saturday. Be sure to dress to impress – the discerning bouncers don’t put up with shorts, sandals or baseball caps.
What a concept: go out to go to bed. At this Miami hotspot, people head out for a night of dancing and clubbing on South Beach to a place called B.E.D. where yes, there are plenty of them. Luxurious surroundings create a fabulous mood prime f
or plunging into a cocktail or two and some sexy people-watching. The acronym stands for beverage.entertainment.dining because the place has all three: premier food, killer cocktails and nightly entertainment.
There’s a theme here every night; and in true South Beach fashion, there’s no waiting until Thursday or Friday, things kick off on Monday with the exclusive Secret Society party. Celebs like music producers Timbaland and Scott Storch, Miami’s own singer Pitbull and athletes galore have been known to gather and party into the wee hours here. For something more subdued, but truly elegant, the Sunday House Brunch or Breakfast in B.E.D., as it’s called ,features DJs Sonny Daze and La Trice and yummy brunchtime eats.
They say that good things come in small packages and at 14 Street’s newest neighborhood haunt, Masa 14, petite equals perfection. Located just north of popular Logan Circle, the Latin-Asian eatery has received a warm welcome from locals, political hotshots and foodies alike. Take one bite of the miso-glazed black cod, and as it melts in your mouth, you’ll understand all the buzz.
A concept co-founded by celebrated DC executive chefs Chef Richard Sandoval (of Zengo fame) and Chef “Kaz” Okochi (Kaz Sushi Bistro), Masa 14 pac
ks huge flavor into a variety of tantalizing Latin and Asian-inspired small plates – delectable little morsels that will definitely leave you wanting “just one more bite.” That’s good news – with reasonable prices and ideal tasting portions, you can have plenty of bites from a mouth-watering menu selection that’s perfect for sharing.
While you wait for a table at the industrial, yet organically chic establishment, grab a seat at the longest bar in DC. Masa 14 boasts a 65-foot bar with extensive tequila, sake and cocktail selections. For a refreshing start to the evening, order some spicy edamame and have one of the trendy, European bartenders concoct you a “Strawberry Lemonade” to cool off – a perfectly tart blend of vodka, fresh strawberry puree and fresh lemon juice for an extra kick.
Insider Tip: Stick around for some after-hours fun, because Masa 14 features a DJ on most weekend nights. Pair that with a couple of cocktails and a seat at the central communal table, and you’ll be sure to leave with more friends than you came in with.
Art Partners, the social and volunteer arm of Atlanta’s High Museum, and Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead are joining forces to present
the 2nd Annual Catwalk Meets Canvas. The event is a delightful mélange of art and fashion, with up-and-coming artists exhibiting recent works, a fashion show, and an intimate marketplace comprised of the top 12 boutiques, designers and spas in Atlanta.
Guests will enjoy the complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres and the music of DJ Joel Rabe of Lethal Rhythms Inc., as they interact with the creative contributors to this soiree. The highlight of the evening is at 8PM – a fashion show presented by Saks Fifth Avenue.
See and be seen, get your groove on, hit the do-it fluid: whatever your M.O. for the weekend is, G Lounge will do more than satisfy. G Lounge presents you with sophisticated nightlife – one part club, one part lounge, this hotspot gives you options. You can cozy up to the new cutie you
met in the VIP lounge or dance the night away with your posse to the themed evening beats.
G does many special events (the New Year’s Bash always sells out) and does so with a style that’s hard to find in any city. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit during the week for “Speak Easy Tuesdays,” where dress is casual and the DJ integrates live bands into their sets. Then get ready to dress up and get down on weekends, where the beautiful people come out to play and celebs are often spotted like Jamie Foxx, Rihanna, Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies players.
The drinks are cool, the staff is hot, and the crowd is ready to go – it’s everything you could want for a night out.
Tucked away in a courtyard about as obscure as a place on the coveted guest list, lies George, the newest addition to the semi-private bars that encompass the popular Georgetown social scene. George’s ultra-exclusive vibe caters to young Washingtonians looking to mingle with a hand-picked crowd, in a relaxed yet refined setting.
Just opened in August 2009, George has an upscale, tavern-like feel with oversized brass bars studded with substantial leather bar chairs. Washed in warm, olive hues and outfitted in historic
decor inspired by colonial Georgetown, George lends a nod to tradition with a uniquely modern sensibility – perfect for its young, conservative crowd looking to party with some class.
Lured by a DJ spinning popular late-night favorites, list members and their guests tend to pile in after 10pm on weekend nights. A nearly pitch-black dance floor is the place to be if you’re looking to party hard with some Georgetown movers and shakers. Who knows, you may even learn a move or two from Washington Nationals star, Ryan Zimmerman, a frequent patron of the bar.
Insider Tip: List or no list, the bar is open to the public on Thursdays and Fridays for Happy Hour from 6-9 PM, so grab a comfy leather seat at the bar and get a feel for what its like to be a card-carrying member.
Head a little north of South Beach to one of the most unexpected places – the historic Fontainebleau Hotel – to party the night away at Liv Nig
htclub, a hotspot catering to celebrities and locals alike. For example, chances of spotting actress Gabrielle Union, who loves to play in Miami, hanging out with her friend, Miami Heat basketball player Dwayne Wade, are very likely.
After all, the place is 30,000 square feet of pure party atmosphere with three full service bars, VIP areas where the Cristal champagne usually flows to world-renowned DJs playing dance tunes as well as hip hop and house music. The all-night light show, main dance floor, and second floor balcony viewing area are the perfect recipe for an unforgettable weekend.
Though Los Angeles is infamously known for being a town filled with women doing anything and everything they can to stay young, Wonderland has officially taken it to a whole ‘nother level. Wonderland nightclub, loosely based around th
e childhood favorite, is the newest addition to the Dolce Group, the men who brought us favorites such as Ketchup and Bella restaurants.
With mirrored walls and framed rabbit shadows, you might expect to find yourself dizzy, when in fact the club is quite tasteful and elegant. Opting for a more relaxed vibe than over the top, Wonderland is the new celebrity hang out on one of the most popular streets in Hollywood. With frequent visitors such as Rhianna and the girls from MTV’s The Hills, it’s no wonder everyone is coming out to play and standing behind the velvet rope. But be warned Alice imposters, only the real deal are getting in this New Year’s with tickets costing up to $200.00 a person awaiting the stroke of midnight.
You may not be able to fall down the rabbit whole, but you may just fall in love with this new Hollywood hangout.
People looking to paint the town red won’t have to search too hard in the Windy City. Such sought after DJs like Samantha Ronson have been known to spin at this lounge where a sultry setting and creative cocktails create a nocturnal paradise for party goers. Glowing crimson mirrors and globally inspired accents are icing on the cake at this exotic venue that promises adventure.
Dallas’ lovers of live music always go to Dada to hear the coolest bands. This club is at the center of the Dallas music scene and has featured bands from Cheap Trick to Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians to burgeoning local bands. With three music stages, you can count on quality entertainment at anytime in the night. Dance, drink, and (if you’ve had enough) sing along to your heart’s content at this Deep Ellum hotspot.
BOND just may be the hottest place to grab a cool drink in Boston’s Financial District. Located inside The Langham Hotel, this grand dame encompasses an impressive bar with dramatically high ceilings in a room filled with enormous, countless chandeliers. Boston’s most beautiful club is also filled with some of its most sophisticated people.
Once part of the Federal Reserve Bank, the former Julien restaurant was transformed last year into a hip setting for cosmopolitan dining and drinking. Cocktails such as The Trust, Pretty Boy Floyd, Bonnie & Clyde and Butch Cassidy reflect the storied history of the building.
BOND is a high-end lounge that acts like a nightclub: bottle service is almost mandatory to skip the massive line that curves its way through the hotel’s lobby. A stylish well-heeled 20-something crowd comes here late night to dance and party to the DJ spinning tunes on the balcony, while an after-work 30-plus group can be seen sipping bubbly in the Dom Perignon Lounge or relaxing with a glass of Riesling while noshing on a crock of lobster pot pie or ahi tuna tataki and tartar.
Grab a reservation or make sure to get in early as BOND is one of the most upscale and sought after nightlife destinations in Boston. Check out the website at bondboston.com.