Meze Lounge is the favoured hang out of Newport's underground culture. A chilled environment where students coexist with the city's arts scene and the odd 'knows it' spouting pop star, this 200 capacity alternative music venue provides a winning combination of cheap food and drink, pool tables, jukebox, plasma screens, eclectic live music and plenty of sofas. With a free membership scheme effectively eliminating the blad factor, Meze is a sanctuary for anyone looking for a relaxed, harassment-free environment.

The weekends kick off in style every week, with resident and guest DJs playing the best alternative tunes from indie faves like The Zutons and Snow Patrol, through to lesser-known gems from US bands such as The Weakerthans and Death Cab For Cutie.

Fridays tend to lean more towards the rockier end of the spectrum, but don't always count on it. A liberal dose of hip hop and drum and bass keeps things interesting and a decent-sized crowd is almost guaranteed.

Open mic acoustic sessions take place every Sunday, with the best local and national singer/songwriters performing in an intimate setting. Laced together shabbily by some great tunes from across the twisted folk/alt. country/skewed indie/whatever genres, this is something quite different. Reclaiming the phrase 'chill out' and forgiving it for being seduced by the blissed out faade of Ibiza, 'Acoustica' is officially Newport's least banging night out.

During the week the venue hosts live music and multimedia events, showcasing the city's emerging talent and giving local film, animation, fashion and design students the opportunity to exhibit their work. If you'd like to know more just get in touch by calling Steve on 07748 160040 or email at stevenhoneywill@yahoo.co.uk.

Oh, we almost forgot. Meze is not about getting wrecked and falling over. However, drinks are amongst the cheapest in Newport with selected drinks £1 all week*, including various bottles (inc. Stella) and shots of flavoured vodka and tequila. Two pint pitchers cost £3 and classic cocktails are always 2 for 1. Food is equally fantastic value, with everything on the menu costing £1.50 - £3.50. Your loan may last until November after all...

*excluding Fridays and Saturdays after 8.30pm