LAKEWOOD. Live jazz and a romantic, intimate ambience set the stage for an evening at Balcony, located in the historic Lakewood Theatre. A mixed clientele, from young professionals to students, sip martinis and listen as throaty jazz singers croon their favorite melodies. A small outdoor patio, comfortable booths and an assortment of stools and tables provide seating, and there's room enough for standing and mingling. The full bar also provides a nice selection of single malt scotches.

IRVING. Spacious and elegant, this upscale establishment has become one of the area's most popular destinations for dinner and drinks. Refined Western decor distinguishes all its venues, which range from restaurant to bar to billiard room. Cuisine relies heavily on steaks and chops but also includes salmon, Australian lobster tail, and luscious desserts. A variety of bands play blues, R&B, jazz, pop, and funk Thursday through Saturday, and the lounge offers aromatic cigars and a fine selection of cognacs. The well-stocked bar serves up great martinis, along with alcohol of all varieties, and large-screen TVs guarantee that all the big games and events are easily viewed. Ideal for a whole evening of fun and leisure.

DEEP ELLUM. The Curtain Club has established itself as one of the best "sounding" venues in the city. Both local and regional alternative rock bands love to play this room. It's not a big place, but the sound man knows acoustics. Usually three bands per night. The crowd is a mixed bag of young and old, but definitely music fans. You must be over 21 to enter the Liquid Lounge and over 17 to enter the Curtain Club.#13;#10;

GREENVILLE AVENUE. This stylish lounge has an urban attitude that's trendy without being overly self-absorbed. Skilled DJs create an upbeat atmosphere by mixing exotic world music. The room's focal point is an enchanting water wall visible from the club's entrance. VIP seating and semi-private booths, as well as plenty of space for mingling, make this a favorite get-together spot for both small and large groups. Specialty cocktails round out the Eight experience.

VICTORY PARK. A sibling of the Vegas original, this swanky hotel lounge is a see-and-be-seen paradise. A velvet rope policy ensures that only the upper crust gets in, and it's without doubt that you'll catch sight of a few celebrities from the entertainment and athletic worlds. Floor-to-ceiling windows afford fabulous views of the city, and a glass-floored deck provides vertigo-inducing glimpses directly downward. Sleek environs, classy cocktails, and steep covers create the sense of a private club, all played to a soundtrack of electronica and house grooves.