Best techno club

In the tradition of Studio 54, of Dionysian decadence, of scantily clad party people dancing the night away to thumping bumping beats, you have the Lansdowne Street's whopping Avalon, Boston's techno epicenter. Thursday nights are international (as are many of the patrons). The award-winning "Avaland," with a new theme every week, takes place on Friday nights, and hosts superstar DJs like Paul Oakenfold and Paul van Dyk and, according to Avalon's Web site, has been sold out every week since its inception. Saturday nights get celebrity guests like Carmen Electra, Ron Jeremy, and a litter of Playboy bunnies. It's steamy and stylish and the closest thing to New York nightlife that we've got.

Unlike the ostentatious techno temple that is Avalon, the Phoenix Landing in Central Square has a much more modest mien. This sedate, dimly lit, and cozy Irish pub by day turns into a potent dance club by night. Techno cognoscenti oft consider the Phoenix Landing the place to hear underground electronic music. Resident DJs Skye, Caseroc, and Shalako spin on Wednesdays; there's drum 'n' bass on Thursdays, and house on Sundays. One of the best aspects of the place is undoubtedly the pronounced lack of attitude. Jeans, sneaks, and a worn-out T? No problem. Come on in and dance.

Avalon, 15 Lansdowne Street, Boston, (617) 262-2424; Phoenix Landing, 512 Mass Ave, Cambridge, (617) 576-6260.