African Bar has a vibrant and unpretentious atmosphere. Despite the moniker, expect to find a mostly Chinese crowd of various ages. Of the club's two rooms, the first is the more upbeat, with a small dance floor accompanied by an energetic mix of reggae, hip-hop and pop music. The second room is more spacious and swanky. If you can hear above the blaring nightly performances, it's a great place lounge around. Food and drinks are average priced (RMB 25 for a Corona).

Daily 7pm-2am. No cards. 707 Dong Feng Dong Lu (8762 3336)

Aiqun Hotel Jazz Bar

Not exactly a wild night out but just the spot for jazz lovers. The interior is upscale with comfy seats. Live jazz starts at 9.30pm. Drink prices are reasonable and there's a dinner buffet for only RMB 40.

Daily 11am-2am. No cards. Aiqun Hotel, 113 Yan Jiang Xi Lu (8186 6668 ext 298)

An Quan Di Dai

Is there really enough musical talent to go around all the local show bars these days? You probably won't think so after a night here. A seemingly endless parade of talentless dollies and overdressed geezers churning out half-hearted covers of Cantonese classics. I'll get my coat. H/H 8-10pm.

Daily 9pm-2am. All cards. 228 Hai Zhu Bei Lu (8318 1743)

(Southcn.com December 25, 2002)