When burger cravings take on an upscale bent, Duke's is king of Clark Street joints. The restaurant-cum-lounge features a 20-strong burger selection that appeals to carnivores of every stripe. Bun-bound creations range from dollar-a-piece cheeseburger bites to a Surf n' Turf burger ($22) that sports its own lobster tail. Following a farther-west sensibility, the California Turkey burger ($9) comes garnished with sprouts, guacamole, tomato and cucumber.

Fork over $9-$10 for fun-to-order cocktails like the Saturday Morning Cartoon, a blend of Chambord, Ketel Citron, watermelon liqueur and triple sec. The Black Cow mixes Jack Daniels with Kahlua, Bailey's and Coke, and the Goin' Ape martini keeps things sweet with chocolate Godiva and banana liqueur.

The bar's lodge-in-Aspen feel, the creation of Gramercy's Brad Cousens, is helped along by planked wooden walls, white leather banquettes, a fireplace and a kitschy-cute waterfall scene projected over the bar. Dating diners will find cozy nooks in which to cuddle up over chicken wings, and movie buffs should direct attention to the flat-screen TVs; a classic film along the lines of Spinal Tap is sure to be flickering away.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg