Lively and modern, Sens (705 N. 1st St., 602/340-9777, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 5 p.m.–midnight Mon.–Thurs., 5 p.m.–2 a.m. Fri.–Sat., $8–14) breathes life into a once stagnant downtown neighborhood. Sens was carved out of an abandoned office plaza that has quickly become a vibrant spot for new pubs and restaurants. Chef Johnny Chu has brought creativity and talent to this Asian tapas bar, where the signature dish, sizzling volcano beef, is seared on a hot stone. Try the quail seasoned with rock salt, or the red-curry tofu that comes to the table simmering in a clay pot. The bar features exotic foreign beers and an extensive sake selection, so it’s a perfect stop on your way to the theater, or for a quick, but upscale, late-night snack.