The trio has created a whirlwind of Asian Art Deco. Curved designer chairs - the Quiet American, Tear Drop, and James chair - line one side and are well matched by low cocktail tables. The walls are adorned with an inordinate number of period posters from Saigon as well as an astounding 130-year old copper sign from China.

The mid-section peninsula bar, crafted from dark Jatoba wood, divides the long, dark, and narrow space into two zones: the front seating area dotted with large day beds imported from Saigon resembles a 30s MGM movie set; the back is a moody, dark-lit, exiled royalty juxtaposition of tatami/washitsu, settees and satin pillows, Chinese lanterns, and a fireplace.

'People walk in here and the want to own it,' says Fletcher. 'They want this to be their place to bring friends and clients.' McVittie agrees, stating, 'Everyone that walks through these doors wants to throw an event here.'

The Comrade isn't a restaurant. With no kitchen, the place is limited to serving cheese plates, desserts and light sandwich fare. Still, due to a fine drink line-up, Comrade is a great starting point before moving to other late-night spots like Soma or the upcoming Booze Emporium. -D.E.