We all love dancing at Morgan Street Brewery every Thursday and singing karaoke at Duffy’s Bar and Grill on Tuesdays, but does anyone ever just want to go clubbing? Let’s be honest, the Washington University club scene certainly leaves something to be desired and can’t compare to that of a big-city school, but there may be hope for us yet. The Central West End is growing trendier and trendier every day, and if you ever get a chance to stumble into Mandarin Lounge (located at 44 Maryland Plaza), you’ll see that our club scene is actually pretty hoppin’.

Buddy Coy and Pete Ferretti, the masterminds behind the Nectar and Pepper Lounges, brought Mandarin Lounge to our humble city. And with notable fans like Chingy and Huey, Mandarin has already established quite the reputation.

Its Asian inspired décor, featuring stone samurais, sleek red walls and interestingly lit ceilings, is reminiscent of New York hot-spot Sushi Samba – it’s no coincidence then that they are both the works of renowned designer Scott Kester. Like most New York nightclubs, Mandarin offers bottle service on its plush leather couches and a full functioning bar hosting many exotic drinks.

Order the Ruby Dragon or the Buddha Bliss cocktails for a burst of fresh Asian fruits like lychee and passion fruit. If you’re feeling extra swanky, go for the $50 Gold Standard Cosmopolitan garnished with real 23-karat gold flakes, platinum tequila and Grand Marnier Cuvee du Centenaire liqueur. Perfect for impressing that hot date, celebrating a birthday—or even a Saturday, if your wallet can use some breathing room.

As if Mandarin wasn’t catching our attention fast enough, it also hosts the Central West End’s first rooftop bar. Its unique horseshoe shape draws attention to this new feature, while leaving ample room for dancing. You better check it out soon before the cold weather crawls in.

We were slightly disappointed when Mandarin’s lights came on at the premature hour of 1:30 in the morning, but these St. Louis trendsetters have it all covered. On your way out they’ll hand you a wristband granting you full access to other St. Louis hot spots like Pepper Lounge that are open until 3 a.m.

But sorry boys, this place is only free of cover charge for the ladies.

This Saturday, we’re expecting DJ Big D to be spinning, who is famous for his out of control top forty mash-ups, so get ready for a young scene and dress to impress. Yes, girls—it’s time to whip out that new dress you’ve been saving.