ALAMO HEIGHTS. Broadway 5050 (cleverly located at 5050 Broadway) treats locals to exposed brickwork, plasma TVs, and a Quentin Tarantino-inspired menu. An eclectic mix of folks from the -09 neighborhood (that's Alamo Heights, zip code 78209) frequents this friendly hangout, accented with taxidermic delights and diner-style booths. Catch some local music on Friday and Saturday nights ­ styles range from alternative rock to jazz and salsa. Pool tables and arcade games offer diversions when bands have the night off. Perfect for a laid-back evening with friends.

MONTE VISTA. Lounge music, jam bands, singer/songwriters, blues ­ there's no shortage of variety in Casbeers' near-daily musical performances. The longstanding Tex-Mex eatery is as famous for its live music line-up as for its food. Many sessions are open-mic; aspiring stars need only sign up a few days in advance to wow enchilada-eating crowds. Even on a rare quiet night, weekly events like bingo bring folks together. Gospel is up for grabs, too, but night-owls beware ­ it's a Sunday brunch affair. Kick back with some nachos and enjoy the show!

SAN ANTONIO. Dance the night away at this salsa club and cigar bar, where swanky, sultry Havana meets sassy San Antonio.

RIVER WALK. Finally, a place to smoke a hookah at two in the morning! Club Rive meets the late-night needs of 20- and 30-somethings with four clubs in one. Take in live music in the Bubble Room, enjoy DJs and dancing in the Skydome and Tabu, and then sit back and smoke that hookah in the Hush Lounge. If that's not enough, special happenings like a fashion show focusing on vintage trends keep things interesting.

SAN ANTONIO. Hope those boots were made for walkin' (and dancin' and drinkin')! Cowboys Dancehall boasts two dance floors, seven bars, a mock western town, and a 20,000-square-foot arena. Bull riding and dancing lessons appear on the schedule regularly. Live music is the heart of the club, and the performance lineup is well-thought-out and extensive.