TSIM SHA TSUI/KOWLOON. As one of Hong Kong's newest jazz club additions, the Blue Note is still establishing itself. The club books a diverse range of artists, including talents like saxophonist George Butts.

TSIM SHAT SUI/KOWLOON. With an interior decor that reflects the China of the 1930s, this upscale spot is great for after dinner drinks. Club Shanghai offers a quiet, leisurely atmosphere in the early evenings, but late into the night, the house band tends to belt out jazzier, more upbeat tunes. This is a nice place to enjoy a drink before starting out on a late night in Hong Kong.

CENTRAL. With live music Thursday through Saturday nights, this popular pub is always packed. The decor is down to earth, the ambience is loud, and the space is small, but F-Stop remains hot because of its classic rock appeal. Come early to get a seat or a drink out on the club's sidewalk, which is part of its charm. There is also a second level that tends to be on the roomier side.

CENTRAL. Upscale avant-garde entertainment is the focus at the Fringe Club. The club's award-winning renovations of a former dairy warehouse have left it with two theaters, two art galleries, a photography gallery, rehearsal space and studios, a fine restaurant and two bars, one of which is an amazing rooftop garden bar. This is where creative, artsy types sip cocktails and munch on tapas; the club itself hosts a variety of performances each week, from bands to theater to book readings. The bars do not have a cover charge; performance ticket prices vary.

CENTRAL. This is probably one of the city's best places for live and recorded jazz music. The Jazz Club and Bar, which is located in Lan Kwai Fong, schedules regular live sessions, showcases local soul, R&B, and jazz talent, and offers a chic, yet casual ambience. A cover charge applies to non-members. The club also books international acts.