ormerly the pubescent party bar Spa Lounge, this space has reinvented itself as painfully upbeat. Having scared away the rave kids and secured an actual upscale lounge decor to go along with the current obligatory moniker, this new venue may prove to be a potential contender.

Providing what other incarnations at 150 Pearl Street have failed to offer in the past, Mink Lounge prides itself on its unique character and upscale vibe. Re-designed by the same designer that brought us Budo, Red Drink Lounge, Copia and Fluid, Mink’s relatively hip décor throughout puts a little life into Pearl Street.

The owners are clearly taking cues from some of Toronto’s more unique venues, new and old; Mink can be likened to places such as the Betty Ford Clinic, Lounge 88 and Hush Lounge - actually, the interior is eerily reminiscent of the old Aria.

The interior is appropriately lit and never too bright or dark, allowing one to choose whether to melt into the corner banquettes or mingle with the cocktail crowd. The décor lends itself to the atmosphere of Mink Lounge, which can best be compared to a chic cigar lounge. Although Mink is new, an attractive crowd is gathering to complete the perfect lounge setting. The staff is also well dressed and well mannered to keep with the overall vibe.

Its success will signal a few things. First, despite the current strength of Toronto’s lounge clubs, Pearl Street has to be re-visited; don’t be scared, people - Studebaker’s is gone. Second, people from Toronto will drive anywhere to make the scene, even if it means circling the block looking for parking in clubland at midnight.