The ever-growing numbers of pubs in Chennai are slowly blurring the conservative image of the city. Earlier, the pubs in the city were situated in five star hotels and were sedate. People ensconced themselves in gigantic plush sofa sets, slowly sipped their cocktails and conversed, while the music played in the background.

Not any more. Today’s pubs are all about high-energy. Filled with young working people and foreign visitors, these pubs are much sought-after. Bike & Barrel, at Residency Towers is one such favourite hang-out. A split-level restobar with darts, pool table and in-house DJ to boot, this place is buzzing all the time.

Over the weekends, you just might find yourself jostling for space as you make your way to the bar. The ambience is warm, inviting and friendly with unique barrel-shaped tables for those who don’t mind standing. Others can choose to relax on the Chesterfield sofas. And, if you care to look up, you will notice a Norton classic bike suspended from the ceiling, lending its charm.

Zara’s is quite popular with out-of-towners and the advertising fraternity. This Spanish restaurant which serves tapas or short eats has a great ambience, fancy cocktails and good food. It tends to get crowded on weekends, however. There’s not much of a dancing floor, but you can nevertheless jig around your table. Some of Zara’s signature items include flavoured vodkas, fried calamari, golden fried prawns and Spanish sangria.

A recent watering-hole in the city is 10 Downing Street. Aiming to pay homage to the British pub culture, and Chennai’s colonial past, this pub was started by three young entrepreneurs on the lines of the Hyderabad pub of the same name.

10 Downing Street attracts crowds on Thursdays for their karaoke night, Fridays for their retro music and on Saturdays for a time-to-unwind party time. The dance floor, however, can be used only on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. But, those who want to party like a rockstar, can book themselves into the “Madras Chambers”, an area set aside for private parties.

For those with deeper pockets can check out Distil at the Taj Connemara, a popular haunt with Chennai’s elite. The bar indulges its patrons with its creative concoctions, exotic snacks, free alcohol for women on Fridays, and good music. A casual place with an emphasis on semi-formal attire, coupled with steep prices, ensures the absence of unwanted gatecrashers.

Another high-end pub in the city is the Leather Bar at the Park. Corporate, yuppies, Page 3s and celebs often come here. Its ambience is passable. Other pubs that are popular with party-goers, and are worth checking out, include Geoffrey’s and Dublin.

Sip or hip-shake or both at Chennai's pubs.