Best of 2003: Best New Hip Dive Bar

The Silver Dragon
3519 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park
619-284-3323

The former Zombie Lounge has a new look and image. But from the outside, you'd never guess that inside is a brilliantly decorated, Feng Shui­inspired masterpiece. Now run by L.A. bar scene veteran Heath Zuehlke, the bar has become a hangout for local hipsters in less than a year. A multicolored airbrushed dragon on the wall hovers over a jukebox with a selection including Rage Against the Machine, AC/DC, and Metallica. You can rack up a pool game on a purple velvet and cheetah-trimmed table or simply relax in one of the booths surrounded by dim candlelight. Women especially turn out on Thursday "Ladies Night," when all well drinks are only $2. Make sure you stay long enough to see the spectacle that gives the bar its name. When the time is right and the perfect song is playing, the bartenders set the bar on fire.