The Blues Bar at the National Hotel

If fly-by-night lounges with flimsy faux furnishings have left you feeling a little disposable, it may be time to plant your derriere at a sturdy oak bar with ambiance rooted in another era. The Blues Bar (formerly D'Lounge) at The National Hotel gives guests a taste of classic 1940s elegance without pretense. A spacious reception area with high ceilings and comfortable, unobtrusive furniture surrounds the bar. Amenable bartenders dressed in unassuming vests and starched shirts pour carefully crafted cocktails, whether throwback Manhattans or refreshing caipirinhas. The bar's diverse international and local patrons seem to agree that the fish tacos with blackened mahi mahi, mango, and pico de gallo are delectable. Also popular are $5 tapas, like the Wakame tuna slider and ceviche with avocado and jalapeno, offered between 4 and 7 p.m. daily.