The Mondrian Hotel's exclusive poolside bar has a stunning view of the city, but all eyes are on the drop-dead gorgeous clubbers.

Everyone had to get into the SkyBar during the late '90s when it ruled the nightlife scene, but only an elite group of supermodels, actors and Industry power players actually passed muster with the picky doorman. Everyone else was sent away with their egos bruised, unable to brag the next day about how they lounged with Leonardo DiCaprio. Buzz had cooled in recent years, but a subtle makeover by designer Tim Andreas and the return of its permanent guest list-only policy gave the bar the edge it needed to reclaim its throne. Yes, Leo's back in the picture, now partying alongside Heath Ledger, Adam Brody, Benjamin McKenzie and Jamie Kennedy. Overall, the open-air space still looks the same with blue-and-white furniture, candle-lit stairs and white lights hanging from the trees, but more seating has been added to create a loungier atmosphere. The roving cocktail waitresses, clad in sheer black Moroccan robes, add to the cozy appeal, especially when they have to crawl onto the poolside bed—the most coveted spot in the house—to take a drink order. If only the dashing British DJ Zen Freeman, who takes over the decks on alternating Thursdays, would also crawl on over. —Alexandra Le Tellier