GEORGETOWN. A modern bar with evocative design elements and a rep for potent elixirs made with fresh fruit purees, Blue Gin is one of those hotspots only the beautiful frequent ­ of course, the well-hidden entrance and discriminating door policy make its cool factor legendary. A minimalist, Euro-suave decor dominates the lounge with brown leather sofas, bold red walls and contemporary lighting. Meanwhile, the equally stylish dance floor pulsates from urban and house mixes. Blue Gin maintains a 25-and-up policy, ensuring that the place maintains its more mature vibe long into the night. METRO: Foggy Bottom

DOWNTOWN. A classy dining room, accented with dark wood, elegant chandeliers, a piano and a fireplace, greets guests at Bohemian caverns. Menu items include the "Miles Davis" (lamb kabobs on saffron rice), the "Charlie Parker" (linguine with crabmeat, shrimp, scallions and Roma tomatoes) and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes. After dinner, descend into the legendary Club Caverns, a below-ground concert venue adorned in geologically themed décor, for the main event. If jazz isn't your thing, then check out Club 2001, the upstairs lounge, where DJs spin a wider variety of tunes.

U STREET. The Chi Cha is a chic bar and lounge where a young professional crowd goes to see and be seen. You can munch on Andean tapas and nurse a glass of homemade sangria or sip a cocktail while listening to Latin jazz. Try the Chi-Cha, the flavorful tequila-based house specialty drink. METRO: U Street/Cardoza

ADAMS-MORGAN. Large and flamboyant, this SoBe-inspired club attracts an exuberant crowd and overflowing admission line. Chrome fixtures, pink and turquoise decor, 70s style furniture and colored lights adorn this multi-level space. Four full-service bars and a menu offering steak, ribs and seafood are available to satiate your needs. The dance floor bursts with energy as guests groove to hip-hop and house. Space is tight in this high-end club, so if you're ambitious arrive before 11pm.

BETHESDA. This fashionable coffeehouse welcomes patrons to a warm, inviting atmosphere. With its mismatched chairs, sofa seating, and dim lights, it begs you to lounge, sip a hot or cold coffee drink, and people-watch for a while. During the day, it's incredibly busy with folks stopping in for a caffeine fix or a quick bite (they carry sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts). At night, it's more casual although no less busy. When the sun goes down, the alcohol comes out, and you can choose from mixed drinks, beer, or wine. However, if the thought of coffee is still too tempting, they'll be happy to spike it for you. Apparently, you can have your cake and eat it too.