lub Distrikt - the freshly launched nightclub complex on Peter Street - has little competition in the sweepstakes for biggest club on the block. But neighbouring clubs are keeping one watchful eye on the newborn monster while simultaneously preparing for battle in the ongoing nightspot war: Tonic frequently refreshes its weekly promoted nights to lure its crowd, Budo sticks with what’s worked thus far to pull in the a-listers and Plastique Lounge needn’t sweat, as it’s under the same ownership as Distrikt.

Then there’s Hotel Boutique Bar, right in the pulsing heart of clubland, which has recently relaunched itself after a two-month renovation as an updated version of itself to compete with the new breed of nightlife.

Hotel has had its share of re-inventions since it’s opening three years ago as Pierre Jutras’ trend-breaking check-into-a-hotel concept lounge. Yet the latest overhaul has been the most ambitious and, curiously, brings the location a bit closer to its original look and feel.

Hotel’s new decor, under the direction of Antonio Tadrissi of Tsquared2 Design, displays a utilitarian, minimalist sheen - the sort seen in early-'60s future flicks that envisioned that we'd all have our own jetpacks and robotic servants. The main area is bisected by curving walls of trellis-like wood paneling, separating the bar area from the usually packed dance floor.