From torch-song cabarets to cutting-edge dance clubs, from neighborhood bars to velvet-rope lounges, plus world-class comedy clubs and establishments with all manner of live entertainment, New York City is a world capital of nightlife. Here you can find libations from beer and wine to elaborate cocktails and high-end champagne, often accompanied by great food.

The birthplace of the New York Strip, Gallagher’s is renowned for its steaks, veal loin, and double-rib lamb chops, broiled over hickory logs. Now the Theatre District institution is featuring live jazz every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, performed by graduates of the Empire State Youth Orchestra form 9pm to midnight. Reservations are strongly suggested; call 212-245-5336. (Note: There is a two-drink minimum required for those not dining.)

Stop into any of Heartland Brewery’s locations and you’ll see that it isn’t just beer that’s brewing at New York’s first American-style brewpub. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to kick back and relax, and the five locations make it easy to escape the rush of the city. Sample one of the many unique brewed beers, try a tasty martini, or have one of the appetizers. And located next door to the Times Square location is the newest member of the Heartland Brewery, HB Burger, which serves nine specialty burgers and “hard shakes,” which are definitely not for kids!

Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater has played host to all kinds of musical greats, from Billie Holiday to Aretha Franklin. Hopefuls and renowned artists still keep up with tradition, touching the Tree of Hope for luck before the many comedic and musical performances. Experience the original Apollo Amateur Night every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., where you choose the next Apollo Legend.

Times Square Arts Center features musical acts, but their stock in trade is comedy. Their nightly shows feature stand-up comedy by superstar comics (plus, their 8pm shows are family-friendly), while Eight Is NEVER Enough is an interactive improv show, and Friday & Saturday nights feature Midnight All-Stars, late-night lunacy for the not-so-timid comedy fans. They also provide upscale bar food, comfortable seating and great acoustics, as well as a VIP room.

From torch-song cabarets to cutting-edge dance clubs, from neighborhood bars to velvet-rope lounges, plus world-class comedy clubs and establishments with all manner of live entertainment, New York City is a world capital of nightlife. Here you can find libations from beer and wine to elaborate cocktails and high-end champagne, often accompanied by great food.

Brendan’s Bar and Grill, a hot after-work spot, is located near the Empire State Building and Macy’s, and serves both American and Irish dishes. This bar features turn-of-the-century architecture, and is easily one of New York City’s most attractive bars. The restaurant has intricately designed beams and pillars, high overhead archways, a magnificent marble fireplace, long narrow stain glass windows and impressive wall decorations. It is a must to see whether you live or you are just visiting New York. And their food is excellent, with an eclectic menu that includes steak, seafood, and pizza.

A throwback to the fabled days of New York nightclubs, B.B. King Blues Club & Grill features top-caliber music stars and soul-accented entrees. The Showcase Room has video screens and state-of-the-art sound, a bar where you can snack and listen, and a dance floor. Lucille’s Grill (named after B.B.’s famed guitar) features specialties bursting with flavor, including blackened catfish, barbecued ribs, and more. Visit www.bbkingblues.com for a list of upcoming shows.

Last May saw the opening of Rouge Tomate’s cocktail lounge, stirRED, which has already become a favorite among the after-work crowd -- and the pre-theatre-drink crowd, and the nightcap crowd... With pre-Prohibition-style cocktails like the Sazerac and the Dark and Stormy and an EATS menu featuring tapas-style cuisine, this lower-level lounge has entirely different offerings from the upstairs bar, and a dramatically different ambience as well.

If your travels take you downtown, head over to Broome Street Bar in SoHo. With its mix of professionals and locals, Broome Street is a great place to stop in for a burger and a few beers. It’s also notable for its coziness, the lovely stained-glass portrait behind the bar, and a good beer selection.

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Understated elegance has returned to Midtown -- specifically Rockefeller Center -- courtesy of the upscale cocktail lounge Forty Eight. The plush, classic milieu is the perfect setting to enjoy inventive specialty cocktails -- conveniently categorized on the drink menu under headings such as “Elegance,” “Wellness,” and “Wanderlust” -- and a menu of some 48 small plates created by the legendary Blue Ribbon restaurant. The perfect place to either mix with the after-work crowd or find a late-late-night snack and drink (they’re open until 2am Monday through Thursday and until 4am on Friday and Saturday nights). DJs spin on the weekends.

Featuring the creative cuisine of world-renowned chef David Burke, Hawaiian Tropic Zone has become a hot nightlife destination, features a video wall behind the bar and “Table Concierge” (male and female) who will gladly guide you through the food, wine, and cocktail lists. Nightly entertainment includes karaoke on Wednesday, the famous Hawaiian Tropic Zone Bikini Pageants, and live jazz every Thurs., Fri., and Sat. from 8:30pm to midnight (no cover or drink min.).

Out-of-towners who want to break away from the Midtown mold of tourist attractions and go where the New Yorkers go for their food and entertainment would be well advised to head uptown to Broadway and 92nd Street. That’s where they will find Cleopatra’s Needle (named after the legendary monument in Central Park), a hot spot specializing in cool jazz and casual Mediterranean food. Happy hour runs every day from 4 to 7:30pm, with half-price martinis and glasses of wine, and reduced prices on all other drinks. Live performances begin every evening at 8pm; check their website for the upcoming schedule.

Bowling -- it ain’t your grandfather’s sport anymore, just ask 300 New York, a bowling alley that’s a trendy club, bistro, and upscale sports bar all rolled into one. With 32 state-of-the-art lanes, a light and video show, lounge seating, upscale decor, and other amenities, it’s the perfect place to have a fun night on the town.