Absinthe Lounge

This retreat for bohemians and beyond is lodged discreetly on the side of the South Side on Lamar development. Take a few steps down into a 21st-century speakeasy with polished concrete floors, dark comfy corners and art-for-sale on the walls. There's entertainment most nights, from poetry readings and comedy to bands and DJs.

What to wear: Women: nice jeans, shoulder-baring top and sparkly earrings. Men: straw fedora, linen pants, button-down shirt. (Note: The dress code may be more casual weeknights. It's best to check the Web site.)

What the music is like: Changes daily – anything from R&B to jazz to acoustic folk. On weekends, it's mostly house, acid-jazz and occasionally hip-hop.

Seen/heard: A woman at the bar, after overhearing the bartender's complex directions to the bathroom, exclaimed: "You gotta Mapquest that!"

Drink of choice: Anything on special.

Smoking: Yes. But it's too bad they don't sell those long cigarette holders. That would be so 19th-century French cafe.

Cover charge: There's rarely, if ever, a cover charge, and it's never more than $5. Street parking is also free.

Bottom line: Absinthe makes the heart grow fonder.