NEW BARS: Shine

Shine's clientele and ambience separate it from other nightclubs.

Many north side spots allow patrons ages 18 through 20. Any bar owner will attest, the younger set can create a volatile crowd. Shine allows 21 and over only. It also often charges a $10 cover, not a bad thing when you strive for exclusivity.

 Shine has also hosted recently some very chic events, ranging from concert after parties to fashion shows.

The crowd comes out, looks good and dances.

Shine also offers a good time to those not into the whole night club scene. You can come chill on the terrace, mingling with a young, upscale crowd.

The patio bumps music. You can order a drink there next to the beautifully lit pool and enjoy the ambience from the bright images projected on the side of the building. How cool is that?

FYI: Ask about the time Shwayze and Cisco Adler partied here. The rap duo, known as Shwayze, sold out the Cine El Rey in September. When the show wrapped up, they headed over to Shine to mingle and down some Grey Goose with the people. It was a good time, especially for fans of the duo's MTV reality show "Buzzin'".

Shine Martini Lounge
100 S. 17th St.
(956) 237-8054

Hours: Thursday to Sunday 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Opened: February

www.shineterrace.com

Style: Night club with outdoor terrace

Musical style: Depends on the night. Thursdays feature live music and house, Friday plays hip hop and Top 40 tunes, Saturdays are international and dance nights, and Sunday is a chill night on the terrace.

Formerly: Ironically Shine was a light store, selling chandeliers.

Ages: 21 and up

Cover: Usually $10

For a table: Shine requires bottle service, costing $160 and a reservation in advance

Drink prices: $3 for domestics, $4 for imports and $9 for specialty martinis

Dress code: Yes. Come dressed to impress.

The Recipe: Sapphire Club + high class + beautiful, upscale crowd

One year outlook: Encouraging. There are no certainties with McAllen's club scene. Nightclubs rarely last for years, often closing and reopening with different names or gimmicks. But Shine might transcend that. It's far more upscale than your average night spot, and it attracts a different crowd.

Typical patron: About 25, good looking and loves to dance. Probably sick of incredibly packed uptown spots that attract hordes of college students and 18 through 20 year olds.