Platinum
915 F St. N.W.
(202) 393-3555
18 to enter

Often called the classiest club in the District, Platinum caters to a well-funded and well-dressed crowd. They employ a very strict no jeans, no sneakers dress code. The VIP room is pricey but worth it. And if you put extra effort into your appearance, you might just make it in there for free. Waiters will serve you champagne, and you may spot the occasional celebrity (there has been word of a Dennis Rodman sighting).

Cover ranges from $12 to $15. The club doesn’t get kicking until about midnight, but it gets overcrowded by 12:30 a.m. You might want to show up early.

Polly Esthers:
605 12th St. N.W.
(between F and G streets)
(202) 737-1970
18 some nights, 21 some nights (call ahead)

The time has come to break out those polyester pants that you’ve been hiding in your closet for a few decades in case they ever came back in style. Located across from Metro Center, Polly Esther’s offers an entertaining atmosphere for pop fans of all ages. Don’t fret – sporting your favorite polyester is neither required nor necessary. Thursdays are 18-and-up and the club opens the first two of its intermingling floors. Each meshes 60’s, 70’s and 80’s music into one danceable mix. Dress is casual with most people clad in jeans, although some ladies opt to wear a nonchalant skirt or dress. Gentlemen must wear sleeved shirts, and hats and athletic gear are not allowed.

Thursday nights 9 p.m.-2 a.m. with a $7 cover.

Club 5
1214 18th St. N.W.
18 to enter
only open certain nights
(202) 331-7123

Club 5 has hip-hop, top 40 and salsa pouring into its main room and moonlit lounge. The dance floor is large but crowded. Newly renovated and opened again last May, Club 5 has got a fresh, new vibe about it.

The cover varies, but is usually about $10. Thursday is college night.

-Submitted by Katrina Lang
and Amanda Hilken.

For more on the D.C. club scene, check out the D.C. Club Guide at www.gwhatchet.com.