I happen to be one of the lucky folk that live close to the Metro train, so lately when it's cocktail time, I save gas and hop on board. Saturday night I was headed to Midtown, but missed the exits because I was engrossed in a conversation with a homeless guy with a burning need to tell me all about the best free breakfast in town. I ended up at Dean's Credit Clothing (316 Main, 713-227-3326), super-funky land of vintage clothing, music and alcohol. Since I'm on the vintage side myself, I arrived a bit early and found the bartenders sitting outside waiting for the action to begin. My companions for the next hour were cheerful Nick, who told me about his wife in Japan, and the lovely and sassy Ava, who legally had her name changed recently. Nick hooked me up with a Mochatini, a splendid libation to sip while watching downtown come alive. First up were the street players, bumming cigarettes while trying to charm Ava out of a free drink. Then the dinner crowd — mostly couples, some holding hands — appeared, walking to downtown's eateries. When the denizens of the night finally arrived, glammed up and ready to rock, it was time for me to head home. I made a mental note not to start so early next time.

2 ounces Ketel One vodka

1 ounce Baileys Irish Cream liqueur

1 1/2 ounces Kahlúa liqueur

Splash of cream

Combine all ingredients in a shaker over ice. Bruise the hell out of it. Pour into a chilled martini glass.