DOWNTOWN. A popular restaurant by day, the Alibi Room really comes alive at night. Owned by a group of filmmakers, the club works to support independent films and their creators, by fostering an artistic dialogue among patrons and making scripts available for public perusal. If that's a bit heavy for you, just come and dance to the mixed rhythms of rotating DJs or enjoy one of their specialty vodka drinks. You'll also find live music from time to time, along with a great wine list and tasty appetizers. A real local favorite, Alibi plays host to everyone from the eccentric to the street smart.

CAPITOL HILL. This Capitol Hill bar and lounge draws a diverse crowd of arty professionals, students, and rockers, both straight and gay ­ you're as likely to see tattoos and piercings as you are polo shirts and ball caps. The eclectic decor highlights local art, including large-scale metal pieces and a blown-glass flame sculpture that shares space behind the bar with the resident live python (in a tank...usually). Music leans towards alternative, punk, heavy metal, rock, and indie, with the occasional poetry slam thrown in for good measure. A great scene if you're into goth, grunge, or even just good old rock.

CAPITOL HILL. Featuring more than two-dozen draught beers, over 70 vodkas, and an impressive selection of wine, this upscale bar is the preferred watering hole for many of Capitol Hill's more fashion-conscious movers and shakers. The decor bears a bit of a Mediterranean lilt, with a long, wavy bar, shrimp-hued walls, and funky blue balconies dominating the scene. Lounge areas in the front in the back offer comfortable settings for catching up with old friends, and theme nights offer excellent opportunities for making new acquaintances.

BELLTOWN. Up for a game of eight-ball and a martini? This upscale pool hall gives you the chance to show off your moves and perhaps score a few bucks from the guys at work. You can also demonstrate moves on the dance floor, thanks to DJs and live bands who perform regularly. Although the place is 21-and-up after 9pm, sometimes groups just skirt that limit. So, be prepared for a little rambunctiousness from time to time. Drinks are of a good quality, from beer to wine, and Belltown also offers a primarily Italian menu when you want something to eat. N.B. Women never have to pay a cover charge.

PIONEER SQUARE. Billing itself as a steak, chop, and oyster house, McRory's is also popular with sports fans, given its vicinity to Safeco Field and the football stadium. The establishment consists of both a bar and restaurant, both of which serve a variety of beers (including microbrews) and some pretty good steaks. Dark woods surround patrons at the bar, which boasts four TVs to ensure that you never miss a game. The restaurant menu is available in the bar, and you can also get fresh oysters, both steamed and raw. A full bar guarantees that you have any beverage you desire, and you can partake inside or on the outside deck. Plus, the bar typically closes an hour later than the restaurant serves food. Great for groups.