Bacchus

This three-story hangout in Lincoln Park feels like three bars in one. The funky Roman-themed first floor complete with marble bar and columns leads to a clubby second level with big banquettes, a blue mosaic tiled bar and neon fiber optic lights on the walls. Get a good look at the place from the attic-like third-floor balcony. DJs dive in Thursday through Saturday, spinning downtempo and acid jazz in the early evening, and turning it up to party music by late night.

No doubt, Bacchus is a refreshing addition to the over-saturated collegiate bar scene in this area. It just may take some time for this place to live up to its mythical name, as the crowd is still the usual locals. The innovative drink specials and great sound system may help.