I checked out downtown’s newest lounge, The Loft (821 Champa St., 303-296-4604), last night. You might ask why anyone would choose a seemingly random Monday night to check out a new potential hotspot, but the lure of Mondays at The Loft is all about getting a good deal on a little pampering.

It’s not a new idea, but their Martini Manicure Mondays is still a great concept. For only $10, gals (and guys too, if you’re into good grooming) can score one of the house specialty martinis along with an express manicure. I say “express” because you shouldn’t expect the works. Seriously, for a mere ten bucks, who would? What you can expect is a mellow scene, a cheap — but well-made — drink, and neatly buffed and polished nails. I was more than pleased with my results by Jenny, a nail technician who normally works at the Vito Pini salon in Belmar.

The Loft is located in the former Club Evolution (which will always be the old Muddy’s coffee house building in my mind) and has received a very LoDo-lofty renovation. Both floors of the two-story warehouse sport the gleaming hardwood, exposed brick and duct work, and open floorplan of its neighboring lofts. VIP booths line one wall for bottle service, and a long bar opposite sports plenty of comfy bar stools. The rest of the space is largely open, giving the lounge a spacious feel and a bit of wiggle room for late-night booty shaking on weekends, when resident DJ Dave Peacock will break out the hip hop and Top 40 remixes.

Co-0wners Shane Hudson and Jamie Uhlir told me they’re planning to promote the space as a “Chicago style upscale lounge” rather than as a club, but judging by the huge crowds that passed through the doors last weekend for the opening (I’m told 1200- 1500 rotating throughout the night in a 500-600 capacity space) they may have to rethink their strategy. In the meantime, look for DJs on Thursday through Saturday nights, cult classic films on Sundays, and of course, I’ll be dropping by regularly for the Monday manicures.