STRAND. Many Americans visiting Great Britain seek authentic London nightlife, but after a few days of pubs, chi-chi wine bars, and afternoon tea, many want a taste of home. This is the place to find it. Besides Yanks, Londoners and visitors from other countries also head to the fine Savoy Hotel's upscale American Bar. Potato chips may be on every table and US sports paraphernalia may adorn the walls, but the bar is sophisticated, and jackets and ties are common. Some folks claim that the bar has the best martinis in town. TUBE: Charing Cross

ST. JAMES'S. Cool and trendy, this bar caters to a well-heeled, sophisticated clientele with its sleek seating, grand piano, artwork, high ceilings, and tall, white pillars. Indeed, the one-time bank building is a place to see and be seen, yet Avenue manages to maintain its lofty rep without buying into its hipness too much ­ that is to say, the resto-bar is simply far too chic for any glimmer of pretense. What's more, there's a über-friendly staff, and the international menu features everything from fried calamari and gazpacho to lamb cutlets and grilled tuna steaks. Dinner reservations are encouraged. TUBE: Green Park

WATERLOO. One of the best places in London to savor Russian vodka, this contemporary spot draws a well-heeled mix of young professionals and style-conscious locals. The gallery-like interior is dominated by stark white walls, modern art, sharp angles, recessed lighting, and a dining room with a high atrium ceiling. Enjoy a favorite brand of vodka (they offer more than 40 varieties) and even a bite to eat ­ if you've never sampled Eastern European cuisine, now's your chance, tovarich. TUBE: Southwark

BELGRAVIA. This busy bar serves a healthy repertoire of traditional Scottish fare and nightly doses of live jazz. Dressed in the garb of a country pub ­ hardwood floors, oak paneling, tartan-inspired reds and greens, oil paintings ­ Boisdale pulls in folks from all walks of life. You can meet some real characters here ­ it is, after all, the politicos' hideaway of choice. When it's nice out, enjoy evening food and drink in the Courtyard Garden, which has a retractable roof. Each night, guests are treated to the cool, impromptu music of the Boisdale Blue Rhythm Band. TUBE: Victoria

SHOREDITCH. This mod nightspot, housed in a refitted railway arch, offers a triumvirate of great after-hours options. In one room, you can enjoy tapas and other Spanish-inspired dishes; in another, cocktails and tasty brews serve as headliners. Finally, the performance area boasts one of the loudest sound systems in town and has been declared a top live-music venue by several local rags. Always packed, Cargo brings in a varied lineup of bands each week, from unsigned jam bands to established local rockers. TUBE: Shoreditch