When you hear the word “club,” usually you think exclusivity. But this year the trend in nightclubs was focused more on inclusiveness, that great feeling of belonging, even if it’s just for the night. Maybe it all started with the Chatterbox, with the casual ambiance of a friends living room, the DNA of which you can see in WXYZ – which combines the Chatterbox’s love of gaming with the sophistication of a world class hotel. While we may still have a ways to go to match the excitement of NYC, LA or Miami, Twin Cities nightlife is developing a distinct local character that we can be proud of.

Best Clubs of 2008:
1) Clubhouse Jager
While Club Jager isn’t technically new this year, its recent makeover under new ownership and staff made this club blow up in 2008. Low-key and located in the warehouse district, this great hangout with an enclosed back patio and winter fire pit, Jager is a neighborhood bar with a trendy twist where the fashion is as important as the music. Stop in Wednesday nights for drink specials and DJ Jake Rudh’s Transmission dance nights.

2) Red Stag Supperclub
Some clubs have loftier goals that just helping us get our groove on. This organic eatery is the first LEED certified restaurant in MPLS, paving the way to a more sustainable Twin Cities. Killer Mon-Fri happy hour, complimentary mimosas during Saturday and Sunday brunch and live local bands pushed this club into an ambient NE hang out.

3) W XYZ Aloft
This new club definitely established itself as unique from the outset. It manages to be stylish and refined yet totally relaxed with a welcomed bit of pop culture flare (try your hand at the Wii console). W XYZ has become “the” hot spot for private events, so book early! The decor strikes a balance between a “souped up Ikea” and your most design savvy friend’s minimalist loft. We can’t wait until warmer weather returns and the fabulous outdoor spaces open up.

4) Chatterbox Pub
With locations in Midtown, Saint Paul and a new pub in Linden Hills, the Chatterbox is still one of the best neighborhood style bars for food, music, locally brewed ales and gaming fun. The Chatterbox offers weekly events like Music Bingo where your elite knowledge of local and eclectic music can pay off in the form of gift certificates and coupons. A tried and true local institution, The Chatterbox Pub continues to be one of the best places to squander an evening with your friends and a charming place for a first date.

5) First Ave
Proving itself still hot after all these years, First Ave’s mainroom was home to some spectacular shows this year including She & Him and MSTRKRFT. While its complimentary venues the 7th Street Entry and the VIP room proved versatile for progressive electro, rock, indie and hip-hop acts. The icing on the cake is the infamous, embracing and suprisingly enduring 18+ dance night hosted by DJ Soviet Panda, Too Much Love.