photo: Courtesy of Nick Flandro

If you want a taste of what a real Asian lounge feels like, try Tokyo 21. With neon lights, video screens, pumping music and deliciously decorated dishes, it's reminiscent of the upscale clubs found in, well, Tokyo. And that pachinko machine in the corner? Yep, Tokyo 21 goes for really authentic.

The perfect place to hang out for an hour or two or three, the key is to order dim sum- or tapas-style: small. This Kamehachi sibling's little dishes are stellar, so order up three or four to nibble on and you'll be surprised at how full you'd get. Try the explosive Spicy Tuna Martini, with saucy raw tuna on a bed of salad served in a martini glass, or the a la trios dishes, which prepare a single item three ways: say, shrimp fried in tempura, baked with garlic and sauteed with cinnamon and butter (yep, cinnamon—it's absolutely sensational).

Beyond savory conversation pieces, there's a wide selection of Tokyo-Tinis and the dangerous Tokyo Tea, which will take "all your stress and worries away." Opt for one of the many sakes if you're chicken.

If you think you're finished with dinner and drinks, you haven't tried their desserts. Tokyo 21 employs its very own pastry chef who works up sugary sensations so seductive that you'd better order one for your girlfriend before the guy sitting next to you does.

Centerstage Reviewer: Steph Yiu