Opium   

Searching for Zen and enlightenment? Opium Garden can take you there South Beach style. This two-level nightclub is an amazing blend of Eastern philosophy and mod club life. The vast garden and outdoor terrace greet you at the entrance, providing a scenic backdrop for the balmy ocean breezes that whisper through here. Grand Buddha statues, Chinese lanterns, lush plants and Asian accoutrements make for an exotic escape from typical club decor. Overhead, dangling white fabric provides fresh fluidity, while icicle lights twinkle with firefly elegance. Rich reds and deep wood hues merge traditional Chinese imagery with New Age simplicity. An impressive fountain overlooks the VIP section known as Prive, meaning "private," so good luck getting in! Otherwise, guests must purchase a bottle of alcohol to relax in the sleek, cushiony lounge areas that surround the dance pergola. The upper-level boardwalk offers a view over the central garden. Upstairs is the indoor restaurant and sushi bar, which transforms into a dance lounge after midnight. The second floor also contains the hip-hop Shanghai Room, distinguished by its hazy red-lantern glow. Each area pulses with a different DJ. -- Monica Cady