With new bars popping up and the downtown nightlife better than ever, this was the week to see it all. From classy lounges to swanky dining, I got my rocks off in more ways than one…

The new restaurant/bar L.E.I. is now open. Last week I was out of town and didn’t get to attend the opening, so I decided to check it out before I was the last to know.

Thursday night is supposed to be one of the busiest nights for one reason or another, so the plan was to meet up last Thursday with the crew around 10:00 p.m. at L.E.I.: just the right time to avoid the lines. When I pulled up outside and got one look at the place, I knew it was on. The red, classy exterior makes quite a statement, and the ambience is amazing.

As we walked in I immediately took notice of the loungy club beats – very nice. The drink menu boasts some of the most unique and tasty drinks around. The layout is unique, and the curtain-drawn sofa and VIP areas are fantastic.

The bar was wall to wall with people. An extremely attractive crowd, I might add, all dressed to impress.

After about three drinks I was content to stay all night, but with the dent in my wallet growing and the night slowly slipping away from us, the crew was on the move and ready to throw down at the next location.

After my christening at L.E.I., it was on to get the booty bumpin’, but I wasn’t feeling the Hillcrest scene. I had heard of a club called Bar Dynamite on the west side of Washington Street, but I had never had the chance to find out for myself what the hype is all about. For one, the bar is supposed to be hard to find because there is next to nothing outside to tell you where the hell you are! I called up a buddy, got the directions and was in like Flynn.

OK, a dive bar… yes, a little. But wow! I couldn’t have asked to be at a better club. Bar Dynamite has an underground feel, is very progressive and has a mixed crowd who knows how to have a good time.

The club also has different styles of music every night of the week, from hip-hop to house, electronic to reggae, so there’s a style to suit your taste and get your kicks on the floor. The service was a bit slow, but only because the bartenders were actually spending time with customers, having a few words and making them feel like they were welcome. I, being the attention whore that I am, was fine with that because I actually felt comfortable there. Two thumbs up for the bar that kept the party going all night long!

Downtown dining with three snaps, girl! I love the downtown scene, and there are so many bars, clubs and f*cking parties that it’s impossible to hit them all. But if you’re trying to mix sexy chic with a dash of gay, then try Aubergine. The feel of this place is amazing, and the food is to die for! You can actually sit and enjoy great drinks and dining without worrying about how you’re going to pay your bills next week. Reasonably priced and delicious, good music and sexy customers. And their sushi… some of the best around. Take my word for it! If you want cuisine that tastes like a million bucks but isn’t leaving a huge hole in your wallet, all while feasting your eyes on gorgeous people, then this is the place to be. Get there early on Saturdays or you may end up waiting a bit.

From high class to down and dirty – all bases covered. If you want the barfly to check out your venue or special event, shoot me an e-mail at editor@uptownpub.com. ’Til next time.