Live entertainment and music, with a retro bar and full menu, complete the hip vibe of this cool night spot.

Descending the stairs into Lucky's is like stepping through a portal into a swinging hipster lounge straight out of the '50s. Dim red lighting washes a rowdy vinyl-upholstered dining room, which is separate from the long narrow bar. Sardine-like conditions are the norm during peak hours, when an energetic crowd (Fort Point Channel artsy types and Financial District worker bees) rolls in for the neighborhood's liveliest scene

Lucky's signature laid-back vibe is kicked up to another level when rollicking Motown, funk and blues bands take the stage (nightly except for Mondays). In the crowd, people dance wherever they can find the room, while wallflowers sample house martinis like the Lady Luck, a bubbly raspberry-lime concoction. A mix of comfort food and pub fare (homemade meat loaf, mini burgers) is served late, but the festivities tend to center around the bar. "Sinatra Sunday Brunch," served until 3pm, is always a good time

The bar has no sign out front. Look for a red glow pouring out of its windows, and then find the obscure entrance on the corner of Congress and A streets