Originally a French literary fairy tale, “Puss in Boots” is about a cat who uses his cleverness and wit to gain power and riches for his master.   After requesting and acquiring a pair of boots, the cat is determined to make his master his fortune.  The formulaic storyline has the cat presenting gifts for the King in his master’s favor, under the fictional name of the Marquis of Carabas until one outing the cat is able to win his master the heart of a princess.  If the moral of the fairy tale is based on the benefits of dress and countenance to turn things in your favor, then DreamWorks’ version of Puss in Boots is able to land right on its feet based on that premise.

With a suave persona and an air of dashing debonair, the cat in Puss in Boots owns his swashbuckling attire.  From the opening scene and on, Puss in Boots is sleek, purposeful, and filled with satire.

Though the Puss in Boots reference to the French fairy tale can not be ignored, DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots is pretty much his own cat.  From the get-go, Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) is able to get himself out of several sticky situations through the power of charm – in this case, the boots make the cat, since cat lovers everywhere are won over by a puss wearing boots – or else as a default, he banks on his appeal as an adorable kitty.

Puss in Boots meets his female counterpart in Kitty Softpaws (Salma Hayek), who leads him to his long lost blood-brother, Humpty Dumpty (Zach Galifianakis).  With a grandiose plan intact under the mastermind of the infamous fairytale egg, Puss in Boots and Kitty Softpaws are on their way to wrest from the murderous outlaws, Jack (Billy Bob Thornton) and Jill (Amy Sedaris), the magic beans in order to gain the riches promised in folklore.  In doing so, Puss in Boots will find himself struggling with past mistakes and betrayals before he is able to undertake the giant in the sky and the goose who lays the golden eggs.  But, of course: who will be the one to get to the “gold-pooper” first – something you’d have to watch and find out for yourself.

Puss in Boots holds up very well under its own banner.  Originally a popular character from the Shrek movies, Puss in Boots is the prequel before the cat happens to meet the Shrek characters.  But unless the producers rewrite the entire Shrek series, a Puss in Boots sequel seems to be too out of reach to make the storylines of both movies plausible – which is quite regrettable since Puss in Boots is a great family movie that kids and adults alike will enjoy and would probably love to see continue.

Its imaginative plot, unforgettable cast of characters, and hilarious catch-phrases may alone suffice, but add in its delicious one-liners and insane fairy-tale references and you got an enjoyable animated film that will have everyone repeating the jokes with gusto and without fail.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Photo Courtesy of www.orangemagazinetv.com via Flickr

Up just one level, a large crowd amassed at the rooftop bar, complete with a faux beach, DJ and a view of the late night San Diego skyline. Across from the bar, a giant screen projected video images of six other similar events taking place across the country.

Down on the first floor, guests entered, but not before lining up against the step-and-repeat wall and getting their photos taken like celebrities outside of an award show.

But this was not an award show.

This November event was POP!, a benefit to raise money for Pencils of Promise, a multi-city party aimed at spreading awareness and providing financial assistance to bringing education to children in developing countries.

Behind all of the partying and the fun is Philanthro Productions, an event production and promotion nonprofit aimed at getting young adults involved in philanthropy.

“Our goal was to raise money for the building of new schools and also aid in Pencils of Promise’s efforts to empower young adults,” said Stephanie Dang, Co-President of Philanthro’s San Diego chapter.

The Los Angeles and San Francisco chapters of Philanthro also participated by putting on similar events in their respective cities. It marked the first time all three chapters of Philanthro hosted simultaneous events for the same cause, according to Dang.

“Because it was a multi-city event, we learned a lot from the other chapters and were able to bounce ideas off of each other,” Dang said. “Each city’s event had its own feel and had some different operational elements, but the synergy and creativity that led up to POP! is pretty palpable.”

In addition to the aforementioned three cities, the Manhattan-based Pencil of Promise charity also hosted events in Boston, Dallas, Denver and New York.

All of the proceeds raised at the events in the seven cities went to Pencils of Promise, and collectively they raised enough money to build an entirely new school in a developing country.

While Philanthro isn’t the first organization to spread awareness on social issues and encourage philanthropic donations to charitable causes in young adults, it’s how they they do it that sets them apart from the others.

The San Diego chapter of Philanthro, established in 2007, has already hosted a number of parties and mixers that benefited the causes such as the San Diego Arts and Entertainment Guild and YMCA’s Y-Friendz, Planet Cancer, Upward Bound House and Invisible Children.

“While contribution is important, we also wanted to make sure that we differentiate ourselves from the average club night,” Dang said. “We added gifts, performers, and food so that our guests felt that it was not your average night out on the town.”

And it wasn’t.

You won’t find too many extravagant parties taking up the first three floors of a swanky hotel in Downtown San Diego targeting specifically at your twenty-somethings.

It had a little something for everyone, no matter what their poison might be. Not a fan of the dance floors or the lounge by the rooftop bar? Philanthro set up educational game booths in the lobby. Next to it was a Fotobox photo booth, where guests lined up to take photos, donning all sorts of silly props.

“The photo booth was definitely one of my favorite parts of the night,” said Shamin Loi. “I loved how you had just six seconds to get in a different pose, and then you had to do it three times. I definitely had a lot of fun with that.”

Party-goers who arrived early enough were able to indulge on doughnut bites made freshly by San Diego-based Dolce Doughnuts. For those who weren’t able to get their hands on the delicious doughnuts, sponsor Popchips was present to ensure everyone had something for a snack.

Belly dancers took over the second level dance floor, leaving the roomful of people spectating, while guests took turns getting their faces decorated by professional face painters.

As the night wound down, most of the guests departed with a sense of satisfaction.

“It feels great to be able to have a great time dancing and partying with my friends but still be able to contribute to a good cause” Loi said.

The sentiment was shared by Dang as well. “In my years as being part of this amazing organization, I can honestly say that POP! is definitely one of the best parties that the San Diego chapter has ever thrown. There was a good vibe and guests came out saying the night was epic,” Dang said. “I am so incredibly proud of my team. We worked really hard and POP! was a major success.”

Courtesy Photos from Nathanial Kam Photography

You can enjoy the enticing atmosphere of the club without feeling intimidated with FLUXX Live, a concept that promotes live music, drink specials, and a night full of dancing. FLUXX Live was introduced to the San Diego nightlife in the beginning of the summer and has already made a mark on the music scene. Indie hipsters alike have flocked to the venue to see some of their favorite artists and shuffle their way to an endless night of fun.

Upon arrival to any FLUXX Live event, you’ll notice the diverse crowd. Chuck Taylors and the occasional fashionista’s fill the dance floor that is being pumped with fog and music that seems to consume the crowd.

The Entertainer got to speak with the mastermind behind this amazing and one-of-a-kind concept, Eric Howarth. Howarth is no stranger to music; he has been involved with music for 15 years with his recently sold company M-Theory, his current record label, and Daydream Nation, the promotions company in association with FLUXX Live. With is extensive music background and the idea of bringing live music to San Diego nightlife, Howarth and FLUXX decided to team up.

He explains that the venue is unlike any other in San Diego, “FLUXX first opened up with a vision, for not only being a dance club, but also being a cool venue for live acts and bands to perform. Wherever you stand in the club, you will have a great view of the performance on stage.” FLUXX Live seems to bring you to a different world with the lights and sounds that create the overall ambiance of a live intimate show.

The most recent performance rolled into town carrying heavy-weight electro and hip-hop champions, Hyper Crush. The show began with the electronic mash-ups of The Cataracs and continued with the heart-racing beats of The Far East Movement. With the fist-pumping and jumping in full-swing, Hyper Crush set the stage.

Lasers shot threw the fog, and the electro beats started to fill the air. The drinks were put down,and the venue quickly became packed as Hyper Crush’s DJ and keyartist, Preston Moronie, hit the stage. Then the smooth rapping of lead, Donny Fontaine chimed in and was followed by the sweet voice of Holly Valentine. The show was a success and ran until the early hours of the morning.

FLUXX Live definitely did not miss a beat with this performance. The event was a success and proved that live music and a low-key dress code could definitely makes its way into the weekly routine of any San Diego night owl. The next performance to hit the FLUXX stage is on September 3oth with Transfers and The Silent Comedy.

Check out the FLUXX website for future shows: http://www.fluxxsd.com/

For more information on Transfer, check out their Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/transferband

For more information on The Silent Comedy, check out their Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/thesilentcomedy

Hyper Crush image provided by: Tab Salsman

FLUXX image provided by FLUXX SD

Just below the hustle of the gaslamp lies a surreal underground world that could have only been conjured up by the wildest of imaginations-or in this case, by the collaborative efforts of club owner Matt Spencer and maverick designer Michael Soriano- twin masterminds behind the unprecedented Vin De Syrah wine bar.

Both took it upon themselves to ensure that the trip into this rabbit hole begins right at street level.

I fell into this whimsical world entirely by accident one night: It all started when some girlfriends and I were walking down 5th Avenue when a gentleman standing at the top of an empty staircase coyly invited us to what he promised would be the ultimate wine bar experience.

Unable to resist the mystery, we took the bait.

However, something was off: From street level, the place seemed slightly unwelcoming if not all together forsaken– graffiti-laden walls and a rusty railing led the way down a dirty staircase to what appeared to be nothing more than a subterraneous dead end.

Then we spotted it: A door! Or was it? What appeared to perhaps be an entrance of some sort was completely covered in a bright green artificial foliage yet possessed no visible handle by which to enter. What? After a great deal of prolonged confusion, we finally figured out how to enter the bar, and upon doing so discovered the passageway into a spellbinding world of fictitious proportions…

Once inside, our bleary eyes beheld the beautiful sight of throngs of people grooving to acid jazz among the grass covered walls decorated with larger-than-life butterflies and flowers; the thick, sun-bleached wood vines, asymmetrical firefly lamps, and umbrellas that hung from the ceiling; the long wooden tables all set for the impromptu tea party; and even a corner that resembled a quirky professor’s study complete with a book-stacked fireplace, high-backed plush chairs, and a life-sized painting of a garden.

A DJ was spinning trance-inducing ambience tracks behind the bar where mixologists were whipping up every imaginable variety of concoction ranging from specialty drinks to infused vodkas to clearly, an abundance of wine. Also on the menu: a variety of cheese, meat, and dessert plates served on oblong wooden platters.

It was official: We had walked into a dream.

Syrah is a Tim Burton film set within an English garden. It is Alice in Wonderland meets the Blue Bayou. It pays respect to the vintage while boldly paving the way for the avant-garde. It is over-the-top eccentric yet does so with style and grace.

Bottom line, it has reformed the downtown urban lounge.

However, descriptions ultimately fall short of describing this clandestine bar that is as irresistibly unconventional as it is enchanting, and one must descend down the rabbit hole in order to truly experience this intriguing little world that is as guaranteed to stimulate the imagination as much as it does the senses.

The Rhythm and The Method rocking the Stage Bar and Grill

Walking or driving down 5th Avenue in downtown you might miss this hole in the wall hangout, with all the flashy clubs and restaurants around. But the Stage Bar and Grill is the place to be if you’re looking for live music, inexpensive appetizers and drinks, plenty of room to dance, and no cover charge. Let me repeat that, there is no cover charge every night of the week.  The Stage is owned by musicians so music is the centerpiece of this bar.

As soon as you walk in to the bar you’re greeted by the stage at the other end of the room. You’ll see the large bar on the right and a few tables and chairs along the walls. The decor makes you feel as if you walked into an old fashion country saloon decked out with laser lights and some modern touches here and there.

The entertainment at the Stage is eclectic and can appeal to young and old. You can find something for every taste throughout the week.

On Sundays they have an open mike night which is perfect for those looking to loosen up before they start the work week.

Mondays are host to a live reggae band.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays showcase San Diego’s best local bands. Recently they hosted up and coming blues and rock band, The Rhythm and the Method.

Friday night starts the weekend and the Stage does not disappoint. Vent all your work week aggressions with metal band Trainwreck performing all of your favorite hits. You can also enjoy some delicious Tennessee BBQ from 5 pm to 9 pm.

On Saturday nights you will find another reggae band at 8pm and The Disco Pimps starting at 10pm. Don’t let the name fool you, The Disco Pimps only dress like they play hits from the 70s but really they’re an awesome cover band that will play all of your favorite songs. If you are looking for a more traditional club setting, just head down stairs where you’ll find a DJ spinning top 40 hits, another bar and even a stripper pole for the ladies who want to put their pole dancing skills on display – hey it’s good exercise!

The best part about venturing out to the Gaslamp during the week is for the happy hour specials, but at Stage you will find half price appetizers, well liquors, beer and wines from 5pm to 8pm everyday! They have a lot of favorites on the menu like jalepeno cream cheese poppers, nachos, and chicken wings. If you’re feeling weight conscious they also have a nice variety of salads for ten dollars or less. As a matter of fact, nothing on the menu is over ten dollars, which makes it perfect for anyone on a budget. I really enjoyed the grilled chicken sandwhich which was served on a lightly toasted onion kaiser roll, yum!

Overall, I really enjoyed my night out at The Stage Bar and Grill, the staff was friendly, the music was good, the food delicious and you can’t beat the fact that there was no cover charge and the drinks and food were not outrageously priced. If you’re looking for a new place to chill and are sick of pretentious clubs and ludicrous cover charges then you should definitely head to the Stage Bar and Grill.

Four years ago, San Diego native and entrepreneur Fil Esquibel along with a few of his buddies decided tongue-in-cheek to try their luck by entering a contest. At the time, the HBO series Entourage had just made its initial impact on television, and in honor of the hit show, MySpace hosted a contest in which four friends needed to form their own unique entourage. During the course of the two month challenge, Esquibel and his friends set out networking and forming relationships with promoters, liquor representatives, and thousands of fans-not realizing they were creating a solid homegrown base of local pull. Esquibel and his entourage ended up placing 4th out of over 200,000 contestants, but more importantly, they had an epiphany: they had just built an empire. In celebration of it, they threw a massive party downtown with all their newly established connections and never looked back.

Today they comprise the team Entourage Productions, playing hosts to some of the largest and most entertaining parties in San Diego. Every first and and third Saturday of every month, Esquibel and his team grace our city with their Seduction events at Red Circle Lounge, where the team prides itself on hosting parties that promise to entertain with their unparalleled featured twists. Themed parties such as the aforementioned famed Viva Las Vegas event of last weekend, live and complimentary professional photography at every event, the occasional live circus performance act, and drink specials like nowhere else are just a few of the tricks that Entourage Productions has up its long sleeve.

This Saturday night, Esquibel and company are at it again, this time having joined forces with the non-profit organization Blanket-A-Human. The Entourage team in collaboration with the charity, will be hosting yet another memorable party under the guilt-free alibi of a holiday fundraiser. The “Coverless” party will be collecting blanket donations for the homeless in exchange for no admission fee all night, donning the catchphrase “Bring a cover and ditch the cover.”

In addition to no cover charge, Seduction will also feature its complimentary live photography service courtesy of professional photography company Visage Co.; a hosted vodka bar from 9-10 p.m.; table service specials of $125 per bottle; and the following unbeatable drink specials: $2 mimosas, $3 beers, $4 shots, and $5 mixed drinks. Nationally renowned DJ Ayla Simone will be spinning top hip-hop and house dance mixes in order to cater to every musical palate. In short, partying hard to champion a worthy cause hardly seems like a bad thing.

For more information regarding this event along with future Entourage Production events, visit their website at http://entouragepro.com/. It’s well worth looking into, especially since Esquibel and his Entourage have made it clear they don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon.

Attempting to stand out amongst such a celebrity crowd is akin to being able to spot the lone misfit in a sea of supermodels – in other words, no one’s even paying attention. The reality is harsh yet the fact remains that San Diego’s nightlife scene is a fickle one – one that is forever coaxing a hefty percentage of club-revelers to only its trendiest of venues, promising that they are the places to see and be seen, with just a tiny print disclaimer that one may need to sacrifice fun for fashion.

However, should there come a night when you simply do not find it in you to deal with long lines, steep covers, or power-tripping bouncers, the good news is that you don’t have to. And you can still have fun… possibly even more fun.

Our fine city is actually teeming with lesser-known treasures that most people walk briskly past – most likely on their way to Sting – without so much as a second glance; however, doing so is definitely to their detriment as these places are not just hosts to the average pre-party, but rather worthy destinations of their own.

We dared to venture off the beaten paths of Hard Rock and Ivy and were ecstatic (and relieved!) to discover an overabundance of smaller bars and lounges that are just as fun and cutting-edge as any of the ‘now’ locales. In fact, we stumbled upon so many- many of which merit their own reviews- that we have had to break this story up into parts in order to effectively spotlight each one.

Here we feature a few:

LoungeSix: This unpretentious yet luxurious tropical get away is located on the roof of Hotel Solamar and can only be accessed via a private elevator from 6th Avenue. It’s a rainforest escape comprised of lush greenery, plush couches, tucked-away cabanas, a shallow water pool, and cozy fire pits- all set against the spectacular backdrop of the city skyline. The bar features only top-shelf spirits as well as fresh, organic bites such as rosemary fries or grilled portabello sliders. The down-tempo electronic soundtrack featuring mostly underground artists and a projector-based movie screen playing vintage film kung-fu fighting scenes give this island retreat the perfect contemporary twist to make it one-of-a-kind. And with no cover, it just may be paradise.

Basic: Don’t let the name fool you. Who knew partying in a former warehouse could be so much fun? Built in the early 1900s, this hip East Village restaurant/bar has kept the original brick walls and high ceilings, lending it a raw, industrial vibe that attracts a hip, fun urban crowd. It features a massive dance floor with an even more massive wooden ceiling fan and DJs spinning hits that will keep you grooving all night long. Did we mention their kitchen serves some of the best and largest thin-crust pizza in town until 2 a.m.? All things considered, we can assure you the hike out to 10th Avenue is more than worth the effort, as basic this bar is anything but.

Candelas: This 3rd Avenue latin-fusion restaurant/bar offers a scene that is as fun as it is elegant. The intimate setting, lively international crowd, and bumping afro-cuban house music unlike anywhere else in town almost make it feel as though you’re at a super nice house party with your closest friends rather than at an upscale downtown establishment with a group of mostly strangers. With breathtakingly beautiful and classic decor reminiscent of an old-style Mexican rat pack haunt, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an alternate world. And once you start shaking your booty to tecnho merengue with a mojito in hand, you won’t be able to help but feel that all’s well with this alternate world.

To be continued!

Folks enjoying happy hour at Firehouse

Ah…the afternoon.  The coffee mug can finally be put away and the caffeine high you’ve worked to maintain through the morning can now be neglected. The workday is winding down along with your tolerance for sobriety, and only one thought has your mind’s attention: happy hour.

Yet after a long workday, the last thing anyone wants to do is blow their hard-earned moolah on a couple of drinks and appetizers – especially if happy hour is your tried and true bi- tri- or quad-weekly treat.

Don’t let the big, flashing signs fool you. Not every happy hour is created to bring a smile to your face. Yet there are some places that still honor this American afternoon tradition, welcoming in the herds of decaffeinated zombies who …just…want…a cheap …drink for heaven’s sake!!

I know and I understand. But most importantly, so do these happy hour hot spots sprinkled throughout San Diego.

Downtown’s La Puerta Mexperience

Can you hear it –the raucous crunch of fresh tortilla chips loaded with zesty guac and salsa? Can you taste the mouth-watering spice of a strawberry margarita? La Puerta on 4^th Avenue makes sure each guest can have a mexperience (a Latin term for orgasm of the mouth) of their own 3p.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. We’re talking half-off all drinks and appetizers, including carne asada quesadillas chalked full of cheese, tacos, nachos, margaritas and more for four hours. Warning: a happy hour spent at La Puerta cause delusional thoughts of your ability to speak Spanish.

Downtown’s Taste and Thirst

Sorta new to the whole downtown scene, Taste and Thirst is like the new kid in class who hasn’t figured out the politics of the popular kids. Unlike so many of its neighbors, Taste and Thirst doesn’t bloat its prices with bull, nor pretend a pretentious air in efforts to appease what many downtown bars consider the status quo. Taste and Thirst is just plain cool. Every night from 3 p.m.-8 p.m. all drinks are two-for-one, Mondays have .50 cent wings during games and Tuesday you’ll find T-bone steaks, mash potatoes, veggies and beer to be 9.99. Taste and Thirst is as cool as they come.

Uptown’s Baja Betty’s

Baja Betty’s is FAB-YA-LUS!! Located in the ever-racing heart of Hillcrest, Baja Betty’s has a fantastic décor that will make you forget your cramped cubicle and crappy boss. Betty’s ambiance greets you with a big bosomed hug and offers her menu of $3 margaritas, sangria, wells and wine, appetizers and quesadillas – all yours for the taking. Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. you are allowed to drown your stress, frustration and total lack of motivation in delicious tequila and sangria for the price of a two packs of gum.

Pacific Beach’s Firehouse

Only in Pacific Beach will you hear the accent of San Diego. Many people don’t think we San Diegans have an accent, but oh, we do. For some exemplar audio, imagine a blond, messy haired surfer in flip flops with a killer tan saying, “Dude bro – I could totally go for a gnarly happy hour right now.”

Yes. That’s it. For more interaction with these accented-locals, check out Firehouse’s various happy hours every day, 4 p.m to close – yes to close. Everyday is different, but most days there will be $3 wells and beers, Tuesday there are “fiddy” cent ribs, and Wednesday has $1 oysters. Dude, Firehouse is totally friggin awesome. Totally.

East Country – I mean County’s – Hooley’s Irish Pub and Grill

Yeah I said it. All joking aside – Hooley’s has two superb, cherry-wooded and sexy masculine-themed bars – one in La Mesa and one in Rancho San Diego. This a man’s man’s happy hour, $1.50 off draught beers and $3 off appetizers. Here the beers are as thick as the testosterone wafting throughout the bar. Mmmmm….can you smell it, ladies? Thankfully the only requirement at Hooley’s is thick skin and not a thick wallet.

North County’s Tango

The term “happy hour” was coined when the owners of Tango lowered prices and left all their guests beaming with Cheshire grins for over one month. Not really, but the prices are so good at Tango’s – its deserving of an exaggerated story. We’re talking Monday through Saturday 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. 50 percent off the menu and drinks. No kidding. Monday’s happy hours lasts till the places closes and Taco Tuesday is terrific with $2 fish tacos and margaritas. Just try to keep the drooling smiles, bellyful laughter and insuppressible joy to yourself.

Patrick's II (Photo from 'bengt nyman' via Flickr)

Don’t be fooled. By the name, one would expect this to be a typical Irish pub. It is an Irish pub, but they there’s nothing typical here.  Patrick’s II showcases some of the finest blues and soul bands around.

The original Patrick’s pub opened its doors in 1933 in the red-light district of downtown San Diego in 1933. Almost right away it became a hot spot for entertainment for locals as well as Navy men and Marines stationed nearby. By the 1970s, downtown San Diego hit an economic downturn which affected many local businesses. Despite the bleak outlook for the area, the Matranga family decided to purchase the pub in 1976.

Four years later, the pub was tragically destroyed by a fire. The owners vowed to rebuild, which is how Patrick’s II was born. They moved next door to the historic Keating Building, where the pub resides today. Needless to say, the pub has survived the times and today is a mainstay in the historic Gaslamp Quarter.

After the City of San Diego decided to revamp the run down red-light district, Patrick’s II became the area’s entertainment mecca. The pub was the only place in the new Gaslamp Quarter with live music. As the area grew, the pub’s entertainment offerings expanded, eventually reaching their current format which includes live music every day of the year.

Patrick’s II is known by many as the premier blues club in San Diego. They feature both local and national acts in a comfortable, fun atmosphere. As you walk through the door of Patrick’s, the Irish print above the door, hardwood floors, glimmering bar lights, strangely mingled clientele and grooving blues music would tell you that you’ve just walked into an uncouth collision of two cultures, an ocean apart, yet remarkably comfortable and ridiculously fun.

If you’re looking for an escape from the bumping and grinding of the typical club scene in downtown San Diego, head over to Patrick’s II for some live, charismatic soul music that will be sure to rock your socks off. The musicians are impeccable, the drinks fairly priced, and the music so irresistible I dare you to stay in your seat.

Location:

428 F Street
San Diego, CA 92101
Map

Phone:
(619)233-3077

Photo from 'Steve Howe' via Wikimedia

Driving on San Diego freeways, as you inch closer and closer to the beautiful skyline and bay-front views, the pulsating rhythm of 808′s seem to engorge your body with the desire to throw your hands in the air and dance all night long.

Downtown San Diego is known for having some amazing club hot spots, including Envy at the Ivy Hotel, On Broadway, Belo, and many more. A new powerhouse of nightlife has recently emerged onto the scene making young locals flock in crowds to the door and celebrities appear nightly. Stingaree San Diego has stung San Diego with club fever, and it looks as if they will be here to stay for some time to come.

Located on 6th and Island, the name Stingaree comes from a time in the early 1900′s when the surrounding area, then also called Stingaree, was home to the “undesirables” of San Diego. Prostitution, drug dealing, gambling and illegal selling of alcohol were what made this red-light district infamous.

Years later city reform cleaned up the area. Almost a century later the club Stingaree opened to pay tribute to the excitement of the once sinister night owl haven.

Stingaree has three levels; a downstairs party space includes a moderately sized dance floor with sexy go-go dancers and well-known DJs spinning your favorite club records til the lights come on. The huge wrap around bar encompasses a floor to ceiling waterfall that illuminates the area.

The second floor is a promenade with a floating catwalk that leads to the VIP section. If you are a lady, getting to the VIP area isn’t too difficult. Dress to impress and schmooze your way in. You can also buy bottle service and have a nice comfy lounge area of your own for the night.

The third level, a local favorite, is the rooftop. Once up the stairs, you’ll find a different DJ and multiple bars. There is a fire pit with surrounding couches to keep you warm and  cabanas with bottle service are also available for purchase.

Almost every night they plan an event worth partying for.

Sometimes it is for a celebrity’s birthday bash, and other times famous DJs or performers make appearances. Celebrity guests have ranged from former Girls Next Door star, and local San Diegan, Kendra Wilkinson to “Drama” from the show Entourage. I recently got to take a picture with Kevin from the office! Keep your eyes and ears peeled, you never know who you will run into.

The dress at Sting ranges from high-class, to just club casual, with people wearing everything from dark jeans and club tops  (no tennis shoes of course) to Vegas style mini dresses and suits. Whatever you are in the mood for, top shelf martinis, or bottled beer, Sting has it.

Photo from 'Saquan Stimpson' Via Flickr CC BY 2.0

Even better news… Tuesday through Friday happy hour is from 5-8 p.m. Thursdays go until 10 p.m. If your hungry, stop by for dinner at their world renowned downstairs restaurant, where the “lounge” menu features gourmet appetizers for half price during happy hour. Draft and bottled beers start at $3 and well drinks at $5.  With Stingaree’s Signature cocktails at half price, you can party like a celebrity without having a Hollywood budget.

Seems too good to be true? You haven’t even heard the half of it. Party buses for you and 20- 50 friends can be arranged from almost anywhere in San Diego for $25 a head. The price includes a ride to and from Stingaree, cover charge, and almost no waiting in line. This service is offered by  numerous promotions companies serving San Diego.

At least, not after 9:00 p.m., anyway. Before then, True North is an open, airy, welcoming bar and restaurant, with a streetside patio that beckons you to come on in, leave work early and have a beer or two. The aroma of its well-crafted pub fare lures you in, and your nose doesn’t lie: The rumors are true, and I’m happy to report that True North does indeed share a kitchen with the sublimely delicious next-door restaurant Urban Solace (which the Entertainer recently reviewed). This translates to the appearance of the single best feature at True North, something that should have been invented a thousand years ago along with the wheel and fire: I’m talking, of course, about the gourmet tater tot.

But what of the bar itself? They have an impeccable beer selection, for starters. It’s not every day you come across a bar that offers Dogfish Head and Leinenkeugel’s alongside the “frost-brewed” atrocity known as “mass-market yellow fizzy beer I refuse to give publicity in this space.” There’s a chalkboard at the entrance that announces the new weekly beer offerings, and on my visits, there’s usually one or two that I’ve never actually tried – no small feat, and much appreciated. They also boast two fully loaded bars, and the mixed drinks are poured skillfully and generously, even after this place transforms Optimus Prime-like at 9:00 in a full-blown P.B.-style party.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. The staff here is exceedingly friendly. Bouncers are kind and respectful and call you by name after they’ve read it off of your ID, which earns them literacy points as well as courtesy points. The waitresses are genuinely nice and helpful, will bring you a drink without spilling it, and will quickly bring you more if you ask for them. They are dressed in moderately fetching uniforms and are attractive, but not in the kind of way that will make your significant other watch your eyes and sigh heavily and mouth vulgarities under their breath. And they all possess an attitude that seems – somewhat anachronistically – local. These chicks have tattoos or piercings or dyed hair, or at lease two out of the three.

It’s nice. Reminds you where you are; or at least, where your car is parked.

The traits that allow True North to technically call itself a sports bar: First, the pool tables. There are two of them. There’s plenty of space to move around and play (before the inebriated dancing begins, of course). The tables accept dollar bills. The felt is new and red and still playable, and nobody has spilled a pitcher of beer on them yet (editor’s note: the Entertainer can make no guarantees this is still the case).

And then, there are the aforementioned plasma screens. There are twenty-freaking-one of them. And they are gorgeous. They spread all around you, above the bar in an oeuvre of color and sound, along the rustic, brick-red walls, and across to the mural at the far end of the space, slowly massaging your consciousness numb until your are resplendent in an ESPN-addled daze. I mean, these televisions could actually make you care about soccer.

No. No television could do that. Disregard.

But now, let’s all synchronize our Swatches to that magical hour of 9:00 pm, when Ben Linus turns the underground frozen wheel or Doc Brown pushes the DeLorean to 56 MPH and True North turns into something…else.

It’s as if the bar suddenly becomes un-stuck from 30th and University, disappears for a moment, then suddenly reappears somewhere on the corner of Garnet and, oh, I don’t know, hell. Everyone around you is transformed before your eyes, from living, sentient beings into tequila-soaked coeds. And not that I don’t like my coeds soaked in tequila – that’s usually how you’d order them, after all – it’s just that these particular kids seem to revel in their revelry, brandishing their youth and gloss and penchant for self-destruction in a way that seems to both pay tribute and sneeringly insult the very neighborhood which invented such virtues for San Diego. These are kids who are so impressed with themselves that they actually found this bar in North Park, they can scarcely contain it. And they don’t.

I’ll give credit to True North. The bar staff retains its level of professionalism and service during this metamorphosis, and security doesn’t hesitate to remove the douchebags when the douchebaggery gets blatant. But unless they were to remove 85 percent of the bar during this “club mode”, the pervasive feeling of the crowd is something you, gentle reader, are probably going to want to be pretty drunk to be able to digest.

But sometimes, of course, you will be that drunk. And when you are, you will find surprisingly ample room to dance, and not the worst DJ’s in the world to dance to. And you will want to dance with one of the PB-bots, and you’ll be glad you did, because PB-bots are good at dancing.

And then you will collapse on the floor from your brain exploding, because of the sheer volume of the music. Some context: Two months ago, I watched an F-22 Raptor take off … from the runway … standing 800 feet away. And that was nothing compared to the blaring, blasting nonsense that is True North’s sound system.

I guarantee that it will literally will make your ears hurt, and if I’m wrong, then I will gladly buy you a beer at True North.

At 6:00.

True North

Belo, named for the fact that the club is underground, opened in early 2006. Formerly known as E Street Alley, the space is 20,000 square feet decorated in chic decor that could be best described as post-modern, or even retro. Offering dining service from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m., Belo’s menu is impressive and blends upscale cuisine with some of the comfort foods that we know and love and is divided into seven sections: Intros, Big Plates, Salads, Skewers, Sammitches, Mix, and Outros. In addition to great “Intros”—or appetizers—like Ketel One Oysters and Mini Creole Crab Cakes, they have three plates that are perfect for sharing, named after each of the rooms: Red, Orange, and Green. I was also told they have happy hour from 5-7 p.m. with half-priced cocktails and specials on select menu items.

The cover to the nightclub is $20 per person and the line for entry was normal for a Saturday night. They offer regular guest list access with no cover before 10:30 by contacting info@belosandiego.com. The “dress to impress” policy was strictly enforced and the security was a bit rigid, but once I made it down the stairs and inside the club, the staff was exceptional. On this particular night, the crowd was a mix of 20 and early 30-somethings and the ratio of women to men was rather high. Truly a dance club, both floors (one playing Top 40, Hip Hop, and R&B, the other playing House music) were packed with patrons who seemed to thoroughly enjoy the deejay’s music selection. In addition, go-go dancers supplied plenty of eye candy—and they were actually quite good.

One thing to be aware of: Belo lacks seating and chances are that if you are not VIP then you will be standing all night. The drinks were on the expensive side and it took a while to make my way up to the bar, but I was pleased with the alcohol content of the drinks. The bartenders did an excellent job getting the drinks made quickly and didn’t rush me for my order.

Consensus: If you have the money to spend and enjoying dancing all night, then I would definitely recommend Belo. However, if you prefer a more intimate setting where you can sit and engage in conversation while having easy access to the bar, then you might choose elsewhere.

BELO - 919 4^th Avenue Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92101

For more information, visit Belo at: http://www.belosandiego.com

Deanna McAdams is a freelance writer the co-owner of XplosionOut.com, a San Diego-based personal assistant & concierge service.