Karma   

The nondescript exterior leads you to a relatively small cocktail lounge with a cozy atmosphere inspired by Japanese minimalism. Older yuppies and young professionals on their way to becoming older yuppies congregate here for mellow, sit-down type drinking with the occasional DJ spinning trance, jazz or world sounds unobtrusively in the background. The simplicity of Karma goes hand in hand with the comfort factor brought on by suede couches, dark woods and dim lighting. Mingling and relaxation is encouraged here amongst paintings of zany Buddhas on the wall and where offbeat cocktails are served in traditional sake sets. Try the signature Karmarita (Patron Silver, Grand Marnier, fresh lime and orange juice). Louder and larger bars linger nearby (Rebar, Revolution), but subdued moods are the order of the day at Karma. -- A. Onofre