The New Dating Game oozes style, from the cars in the parking lot to the groovers on the dance floor.

by Elisa Kronish

The Scene
It ain't called the Dating Game for nothin', folks. If you arrive alone, wait a few minutes--someone is sure to seek you out. The large sunken, island bar is perfect for scoping, and the bartenders deftly help break the ice for lonely hearts. The Dating Game aims for class, with rich colors, mirrored walls, dim lighting and two top-shelf-stocked bars. Elegant blue and gold drapes close to create a world away from drab Stony Island Drive. The cozy dance floor fills up late with experienced steppers, the DJ kicks up the energy, and bar seats go fast.

The Draw
Down-to-earth food is heavy on the battered and fried variety. Reasonably priced catfish, perch, popcorn shrimp and hot wings all come with fries. Attractive, silk-vested bartenders make a smooth Cosmopolitan and happily dress up any drink with whipped cream--like the popular strawberry daquiris. Prices aren't cheap, but your cover charge gets you a dollar off your first drink. Upon entering, photos of Aretha Franklin and Miles Davis set the tone for genuine soul. The DJ mixes it up focusing on crowd-pleasing dance beats that gets steppers steppin'. On Sunday nights, live jazz takes over.