Compared to the typical Tempe club on a Saturday night, the Zoom Room is a breath of fresh air. A crowd of about 20 people, ages 20 to 40, intently watch a young, attractive folk singer strumming his guitar in the small restaurant and bar, which was formerly the Iguana Lounge.

White lights decorate the patio of the open-air bar and umbrella-covered tables. Couples and small groups of friends lounge at the hideaway, sipping beer, wine and coffee. Though its name may suggest otherwise, we get the feeling that the Zoom Room is more of an open-mic, coffee bar kind of place compared to a raging college bar. Think the Peach Pit After Dark from ‘‘Beverly Hills 90210,’’ minus the wild shenanigans.

Customer Randy Vye, 29, of Tempe, agrees. “It's really relaxed here,’’ he says. “It's not the sort of place you go if you're hoping to hook up or go dancing ... I enjoy the mellowness. This is one of those rare places where you can actually hold a conversation.’’

Vye makes a good point. Though we enjoy the kick-back vibe, this isn't the ideal spot for a girls night out. We suggest going to the Zoom Room if you're on a date or if you're looking for a quiet place to study and get some work done or if you just want a cup of Java.

“The coffee here is really good,’’ says Rachel Hotz, 21, of Tempe. “I like their cappuccino. It's the perfect pick-me-up before going to class during the week.’’

Entertainment schedule
Thursday: The Foundation of Burns and Trauma fundraiser with Dan (9 p.m.)
Friday: Walt Richardson and friends (5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.)
Saturday: Jen and Jim; Russ (9 p.m.)
Sunday: Karaoke (9 p.m.)

The Zoom Room
Where: 502 S. College Ave., Tempe
Hours: 10:30 to 1 a.m. Monday through Friday, 8 to 1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday
Cover: Free
Happy hour: 3 to 7 p.m. daily with $2.50 domestic bottles, $2.75 well, $3 imports and house wine and $3.25 call drinks.
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