The buzz: The former Rice Bar is now a swellegant drinking hole.

The décor:  Lots of minimalist space swathed in sexy darkness, with lush jungle blossoms hanging from soaring cave-like ceilings. Peacock feathers line the walls by the black banquettes, and the central island bar is now on the side, with chameleon-like changing colors.

The drinks: Try a René Geoffroy Empreinte Brut or a Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut if you’re in the mood for fizzy. Their “Zignature” cocktails include Orange-A-Tang (vodka, rum, Cointreau, grapefruit, OJ and fresh lime) and Zoo Love (Absolut Mango, Midori, lychee liqueur and tropical juice). It’s not on the menu, but we decided to test the wits of the zookeepers and asked for a Zoolander. The clever bar manager Andy quickly downloaded a recipe via iPhone and offered us our suddenly favorite drink. Smart!

The music: Jazz Mondays, Latin Tuesdays, house and club anthems for the rest of the week for party animals.

The crowd: Most noticeably, bears and their cubs, but there are all sorts of sexy beasts, from tigers to swans and flamingos.

Why you’ll be back: For the dusk safari.

Johannes Pong

33 Jervois St., Sheung Wan, 3583-1200.