NOTA is known more for its artistic pursuits than nightlife choices: It’s home to the Memorial Art Gallery, artists’ studios, School of the Arts, Visual Studies Workshop, Writers & Books, Baobab Cultural Center and other arts organizations. Still, the restaurants and bars that call the area home are well-respected and popular. And the interesting people you’ll meet out will make for a memorable evening.

Bars and Restaurants

Bachelor Forum: Motorcycle gay bar. 670 University Ave.; 271-6930
Bodhi’s Cafe & Lounge: Lounge fare. Village Gate Square, 274 N. Goodman St.; 473-2030
California Rollin’: Sushi, beer, wine and sake. Village Gate Square, 274 N. Goodman St.; 271-8990
Cutler’s Restaurant: American cuisine, in Memorial Art Gallery. 500 University Ave.; 473-6380
Edibles Restaurant: Eclectic fine dining. 704 University Ave.; 271-4910
Lento: Seasonal, local cuisine. Village Gate Square, 274 N. Goodman St.; 271-3470
The Gate House: Burgers and steak. Village Gate Square, 274 N. Goodman St.; 473-2090
Starry Nites Cafe: Chef-prepared cafe fare. 696 University Ave.; 271-2630

Main thoroughfares: University Avenue and Goodman Street
Parking: In lots surrounding Village Gate Square and on University, Goodman and side streets