The Abbey Food and Bar

An unassuming but comprehensive coffee bar and outdoor lounge leads into a maze-like setting, which gets more complex and exotic the deeper it goes. Subsequent rooms are drenched in ineffably warm red and gold lights, highlighted by a sublime Arabian patio with recessed cabana mattresses draped with swaths of white fabric, and the contradiction of a burning fireplace and cooling mechanized fans. An expansive roster of fragrant martini choices--fruit and chocolate-based--helps distinguish the sophisticated vibe. The crowd is mixed and unpretentious, largely gay male, but with a strong gay and straight female presence, and frequent hetero couples, clearly drawn by the enveloping feel and an eclectic food menu. The flawless atmosphere and attractive patrons (and bar staff) compensate for the daunting cocktail prices. The proximity to other hot spots doesn't hurt either.