Liquid Lounge At Emp

The Scene
Although locals have been slow to warm up to the Liquid Lounge--at least partly because of the perception of the EMP as an overpriced tourist trap--this second-floor bar is finally drawing bigger crowds who appreciate its intimate layout and smoke-free environment. With no cover charge, the Lounge still manages to bring in an eclectic array of local, national and international talent.

The Draw
Innovative design is the key appeal of the Liquid Lounge, which stands out because of its gleaming, non-symmetrical countertop and surprisingly comfortable space-age steel bar stools. Weekday nights are arranged thematically by music genres, and there's usually plenty of space for everyone to socialize. But on the weekends, a casual-meets-upscale crowd scarcely fits onto the tiny dance floor and clogs the already narrow walkway.