This downtown nightspot stays thumping late with music every night and some of the most entertaining bartenders in town. Wednesdays start with open-mic poetry and comedy shows. Thursdays are 25 and older night. Fridays are college night. Saturdays are 21 and older night.

The Arab Shrine Temple has a bar open to members on Friday nights only. To become a member, a person must be 18 and a Mason. Members support Shriners Hospitals for Children and raise money for temple programs.

Top of the Tower’s City Lights Lounge will mix whatever you want, but the real selling point for this private club that opened in 1968 is the view. The classic lounge on the top floor of the Bank of America building in downtown Topeka offers a stunning panorama of the city – the perfect place to take in the sunset while sipping a martini or glass of wine.

Lane's Barbeque closed on Dec. 11, 2009.
Warm up by one of two fireplaces and add fire to your belly with Lane's special chocolate-covered cherry shot, a house specialty since the BBQ joint added a bar in early 2009. Play pool and jam to local bands or get cozy on one of Lane's couches. Look for the same menu full of finger-licking BBQ. Owner Harold Lane is a state legislator.

Although its main focus is food, El Mezcal No. 4 offers margaritas, both Mexican and domestic beers and some wine. Dash in for a fast-service lunch or enjoy a relaxed dinner, perhaps on the patio when the weather warms. There are daily drink, lunch and dinner specials. And don't forget: El Mezcal III is at 5301 S.W. 21st, and there are two El Mezcals in Lawrence.

Fancy a pint? Find a bit of Ireland in this cool limestone storefront in downtown Topeka. This bar serves all the great Irish beers -- Smithwicks, Harp and Guinness -- from a long wood bar. Fill your belly with Irish classics like shepherd’s pie or a Reuben sandwich. The Fox draws a varied crowd, from area regulars to state lawmakers. It also books parties.

Enter this ultra-chic sophisticated bar through red velvet curtains. There's space for 12, making it a cozy spot for drinks for two or guests waiting for tables at the upscale restaurant above. Like the rest of the RowHouse, the bar retains the old home's charm with an old fireplace, but it mixes in a contemporary, cool vibe. A great place for good wine or ask about the specialty cocktails.

The bar is at the entrance, and customers are welcome to drink there or sit down in the restaurant. Food is made fresh daily, including chips and chile rellenos. Cool your palette with Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas and mixed drinks.

In addition to having eight beers on tap, 22-ounce drafts, every liquor you can think of and daily drink specials, there's live entertainment on Friday nights. The food menu features Creek Stone Black Angus beef from Arkansas City, and state workers receive a 10 percent discount.