Strong drinks versus horny businessmen. Great food versus high prices. Sexy outdoor patio versus incongruous TVs. One could say that X Bar is at a crossroads.

But we have to say that this brand-new bar is steadily on the incline. It's true that the convention-goers at the hotel try their hardest to make the lounge a pick-up joint ("Heyyyy, can I buy you a shot?"), but the scene is also set by groups celebrating birthdays out on the patio. And the patio is a highlight: It's a huge space with palm trees, a fire pit and cute mini-cabanas. We aren't sure that the TVs on every wall, inside and out, are such a great idea, but they do make it the perfect place for a screening party. The bar's signature cocktails, made from real juices and fresh ingredients, pack a punch (try the X-Bar Margarita or the Black Cherry Cocktail). The food menu is also pretty fantastic. The beef satay is a standout, as is anything with shrimp. Our personal favorites, though, are the mini Reuben sandwiches toasted on a panini grill. And for dessert? The perfectly shareable caramel fondue. —Katherine Spiers