DOWNTOWN. Smooth, unpretentious lounge 2 Cats appeals to a cross section of TO's populace, from swingin' hep cats to philosophical night owls. The modern version of lounge music ­ smooth soul, alt rock, deep house, even retro sounds ­ is the perfect backdrop. It starts out mellow and cool, and switches into high gear later in the evening. A martini goes down easy here.

MIDTOWN. A fun jazz bar with different theme nights ­ including swing, salsa and smooth jazz. A great place to spend an evening with friends, enjoy a nice meal and good music. The menu runs from bruschetta, tempura shrimp and carpaccio to grilled alligator, linguine with sausage and peppers and steak frites.

DOWNTOWN. If your main aim is to see and be seen, then don your finest designer threads and make your way to Amber, where getting past the door staff is just part of the fun. Sleek, predominantly white décor shows fashion house attire (and a fake tan) to its best advantage, and the bartenders are adept at both the classics and the new concoctions. Food is part of the draw ­ creative Asian-Mediterranean fusion cooking that's interesting and flavorful, without being too filling.

DOWNTOWN. A mixed crowd mimics the cosmopolitan nature of this bar's namesake, the Roman-Greek city of Byzantium, which later became known as Istanbul. Aside from that, there's little resemblance. The lounge is stylish and sophisticated; the dining room opposite is a bit more luxurious. Dining here is always an adventure, with globally inspired flavors and beautiful presentation. But simply sipping a cocktail or two in the bar can be, as well ­ the inspired martini list includes something like 100 different versions.

DOWNTOWN. It's about time someone thought of this. C Lounge combines all the best aspects of a spa with the trendy attitude of a lounge ­ the result is an upscale, relaxed and comfortable nightspot where you can get your nails done or enjoy a massage while you sip a cosmo. There are even make-up artists on-hand in the restrooms to repair or perfect. Along with incredibly plush seating and lounging, you'll find a lovely courtyard with a pool; VIP cabanas along the pool deck offer the ultimate in privacy.