SOMA. With three levels, five rooms, and 20,000 square feet of the most versatile party space in San Francisco, Ten-Fifteen is always a great stop on the nightlife scene. Each night, changing DJs (including international guests) serve up some of the area's hottest electronic dance music and rhythms. Music is loud, crowds are huge, and the party never ends. Call for varying cover charges and the party schedule.

SOMA. Looking for a happening spot to decompress after a hard day pushing papers? Head to Minna Gallery, and order a signature, happy hour cocktail. Art in a variety of media adorns the walls, and lively DJs keep tunes and atmosphere at a wide-open pace. You'll find it hard to resist the beat as you head to the dance floor for a little body movement. Great for groups or for first dates ­ especially if your date loves to dance!

MISSION DISTRICT. 26 Mix lives up to its name, functioning as a social spot for professional 20-somethings (and 30-somethings who look the part). DJs mix it up too, spinning tunes of all genres ­ house, techno, downtempo, jazz, and reggae. Drink specials and happy hours please attending crowds, and non-dancing patrons slough off non-participatory shame by trying their hand at vintage video games.

SOMA. A penchant for the dramatic colors this entire enterprise, which is simultaneously a restaurant, bar and (downstairs) dance club. An Asian theme is served by shoji screens, bamboo accents and a recurring dragon motif. Perhaps, though, the most intriguing aspect of Asia SF is that servers are also female impersonators (or "gender illusionists," as they're called here). While watching them perform, take advantage of fantastic California-Asian cuisine, along with desserts, signature cocktails and an award-winning wine list. Required dinner reservations guarantee your table for an hour and 45 minutes.

SOMA. This late-night spot draws all types to its large space, which includes two dance floors where DJs really know how to pump it up. Hip-hop, funk, house, techno and rock can all be heard on different days, and theme nights expand the options, as you'll find if you stumble across '80s retro night or a fetish event. Generally, the tamer music can be found in the front room, and the more experimental stuff in the back. A large bar also makes getting a drink fairly painless.