leek and sophisticated’ seem a reasonable diving board from which to spring in my overview of chic nighttime hideaways Prive and Opium Lounge. Owned by Miami’s own Opium Group which also owns sister club, Mansion, Prive and Opium can boast of being two of Miami’s top three nightclubs. Can you guess the third? (I’ll leave Mansion for another day).

Although not strictly for the celebrity or celebrity-gawking individual, Opium’s $20-30 cover charge doesn’t exactly welcome the masses. Slither past the velvet ropes and you’re entering upon a dark and mysterious jungle rapt with sleek furniture and private booths which line the dance floor. Yes, there is a dance floor meaning it’s not all business serious at Opium. Lush greenery lend the space an exotic air which is further enhanced by the multi-leveled facility which was originally intended to be an oxygen bar and Indonesian restaurant. Those influences have seeped into the food which includes references to Indonesian fare as well as an assortment of pan-Asian meals.

Prive is not an altogether different environment although its spacious areas encourage more direct gawking than Opium can allow for. Like Opium, Prive incorporates minimalist furniture which, combined with conveniently-hued spot lights cause a sort of rainbow effect. Not to worry ladies, it’s the type of lighting that we’ll always look good in, especially walking over to the bar to pick up another drink. An array of musical styles are found throughout the generous spaces at both Prive and Opium, mostly leaning towards dance, trance and pop.