Martini Bar, Cigar Bar and Piano Bar all in one, Beluga stands in a class by itself among the standard Buckhead locales. It can be found in a removed, intimate spot across from Bone’s, in the heart of a renovated lodge. Its location matches its purpose, a hideaway retreat, a place to sneak away from the busyness of the daily grind for a late night drink and relaxation to the surreal sounds of smooth, live jazz. This martini bar doesn’t aim to impress with its décor, but rather with its hospitality, drinks, people, music and charm.

The crowd is colorful and eclectic, yet obviously successful and clean cut, with a wide age range starting from mid 20s to 60s, and a younger crowd on the weekends. They are drawn to Beluga’s cozy ambience, as well as Beluga’s three 3 C’s: cigars, caviar and class. Don’t doubt though that this refined, upwardly mobile crowd can still get quite boisterous around the bar. You’ll find the people and the staff here to be a very agreeable sort, who are actually here to appreciate the music and the atmosphere.

Beluga boasts 15 wines and 15 martinis (of which I recommend the Vanilla Mousse Martini), as well 20 scotches, 12 bourbons, 9 cognacs and 3 ports. There is live music just about every night from 10pm-2am, with their signature Jazz/blues band the Electromatics on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Snag a seat near the baby grand for the best listening and vantage spot in the house. Additionally, there is a small dance space next to the live jazz band, as well as open spaces in the back for mingling and socializing.

A summer night is the perfect excuse to check out the beautiful crowd posing on the outside deck. It’s a lovely sight with the soft glow of strung white lights enclosing the perimeter of the wooden patio, the warmth emanating from the tiki torches, and the reflection of the flickering flames on the faces of the patrons. With its own bar, there’s no reason to ever leave, except for the lulling sound of smooth jazz beckoning to you from inside.