Those that know comeback nightlife impresario Dion Antic (Iggy's, Harry's Velvet Room) shouldn't be surprised with this latest rock-sideshow project, curtained in tasseled lamps and vintage porn. After all, the man's an innovator of sorts (his latest flameout, Rockstar Dogs, paired stripper poles with hot dogs).

The Shady Lady also gets off on surprises, from Chris Cullen's (Blue 13) industry-meets-bistro grub – with some old Iggy's wings and artichoke fritters in the mix – to craft cocktail VIP rumblings in the basement, to oddities like sword-swallowing and burlesque shows.

Provocation is the name of the game here, from the Madame sandwich, oozing gruyere and bechamel about black forest ham and a fried egg, to the Madame bartendress, popping out mid-cocktail to bust a sultry cover of Alannah Myles' "Black Velvet."

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Gavin Paul