Ministry of Sound, New York

Ministry of Sound - Signs inside Ministry of Sound caution against excessive noise levels, and they’re not kidding. Ears are ringing, arms and legs are flailing, and sweat glands are in overdrive at this multi-roomed house music Mecca, especially in the large main dance chamber where serious dancers groove against a backdrop of flashing colored lights. Through a tunnel is the club’s nucleus, where bartenders serve up drinks from a glowing pink Lucite-paneled bar—that is, when they’re not dancing on said bar’s countertop; a small annex adorned with disco balls is just off to the side. Upstairs features a VIP section, a balcony overlooking the action, and a sleek lounge with brown leather cubed seats, clandestine little nooks, and a purplish light installation straight out of “Star Trek.” The scene is high-energy to say the least, thanks to DJs who know when to crank it up (and receive several thumbs up and handshakes) and an 18+ crowd that appears to have Red Bull coursing their its veins. Expect a moderate queue, a crush at the door, and an entry fee.