by: Sarah Khan

When you walk up the stairs and into the sexy, red-tinged room, Opal Lounge looks like any other packed Saturday night hotspot. But then you quickly realize a few peculiar things:

It’s 5:30 on a Tuesday.
The only men present are the bartenders.
There are manicurists stationed in the back.

Yes, manicurists. The owners of Opal Lounge are revolutionizing the concept of the traditional Ladies Night Out with their promotional Martinis and Manicures events on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. With the $5 martinis and $7 manicures, you can get drunk while you get your nails done – and judging by the overwhelming response, there’s a huge demand for such time-saving grooming-and-boozing activities in Beantown.

“I think it’s a really good idea,” said Wendy Burns, 27, as she nursed a mangotini with her freshly-painted nails. “This is easily the most crowded bar in Boston on a Tuesday.”

Martinis and Manicures was borne out of a desire to give women something unusual and unique to do on Tuesday nights. “We wanted women to have a novel experience and a sophisticated, fun environment,” said Bryan Huck, a co-owner of the trendy Downtown Crossing nightclub. The first few weeks were such a huge success that they’ve recently expanded the promotion to Wednesday nights as well. Other promotions, including a hip book club, are in the works for other evenings.

The martinis/manis concept is simple enough. You stroll into Opal anytime from 5-9 pm, walk past the plush sofas in the trendy, dimly-lit interior, put your name down for a slot, and grab the signature Opaltini and sample the array of free food while you wait your turn. Then when your name is called, you sip your drink with one hand while the skilled manicurists from neighboring Galaxy Nails nurture the cuticles of the other with tons of attention.

“It’s a great idea, I don’t know why more people haven’t done it,” said Victoria Walton, 34. “Take any activity and add alcohol, that sounds great!”

Dozens of people apparently agree. According to Huck, Galaxy does about 50 manis a night, and people keep trying to call in to make appointments in advance. Sorry ladies, it’s walk-ins only. “This isn’t a spa, and we’re not in the manicure business,” said Huck. “We want to make sure everyone who comes here has the same opportunity.”

But while this event is clearly targeted toward the young professional woman looking for a unique twist on the old happy hour, all you boys out there should really think about making an appearance. As one of the lone males in a room packed with young single chicks all night, bartender Matt Powell knows what he’s talking about. “There should be a lot more guys here – it’s a great place to meet women.”

Opal Lounge is located at 48 Winter Street in Downtown Crossing. More more information call 617-482-6725 or go to www.opalboston.com.