Suite B   

50 E Central Blvd
Orlando, FL 32801
407-246-1750
www.suiteblounge.com

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Revelers who remember the Knock Knock Lounge would never recognize the downtown bar that's taken its place. That odd swing set novelty is gone, and the cramped space has been opened up to host swanky leather couches, cozy nooks for cuddling and hip hangout perches around the bar's perimeter. A DJ booth occupies half of one wall, with a dance floor spilling out before it. Walls painted citrus green are interspersed with wood panels painted with funky oversized flowers -- the look is utterly cool, without taking itself too seriously. Some of the staff from the old Red Square Vodka Lounge, which met a sudden demise in 2005, regrouped to open Suite B, and these folks know a thing or two about pouring a proper drink. The martinis are smooth and serious (real connoisseurs pass up the fruity varieties for a gin and vermouth pour), and there are good martini specials on Thursday nights. DJs spin tunes most nights, with a focus on acid jazz and low key lounge sounds. As the night wears on the beats become more driving, coaxing young beautiful types and their hangers-on onto the dance floor. But compared to other attitude-heavy spots in town, Suite B keeps manages to keep things casually cool -- a welcome addition to downtown's thriving nightlife scene. --Terry Ward