Bobby McGee ‘n’ Philosophy

Socrates, Aristotle and Pythagoras argued that a hedonistic lifestyle is ruinous to the mind and body. They would never approve of Bobby McGee’s Conglomeration in Brea. There, a bounty of food, booze and dancing makes for an indulgent night, so take off your thinking cap and dig in.

Bobby McGee’s doubles as a restaurant and nightclub Wednesday through Sunday and makes planning an outing easy (the restaurant is open daily). One can head directly to the dance floor after dinner--which is great for working off a big meal. Or after a phenomenal pigout, one can aid digestion with a few quiet drinks at the bar.

McGee’s has been around for 25 years and takes pride in a large team of regulars and plenty of happy newcomers. The nightclub’s crowd is a harmonious blend of college-age folk and middle-age hipsters.

Lacking the usual pretentious nightclub scene, McGee’s has an atmosphere that encourages partyers to let loose. The clientele follows the “dress to impress” codebut refuses to let the party turn into a fashion--or peek--show. And if you come looking like a gang member, the only thing you’ll be banging is your head--on a wall outside, because you won’t get in.

Though they fire up the black lights, fog machine, lasers and disco ball at 8 p.m., the party doesn’t really get going until 10:30. DJs Orbe and Christian let the good times roll, spinning Top 40 hits until the clock strikes 2 a.m. They’ll help you “Get Jiggy With It” and figure out if “Billy Jean” is Michael Jackson’s lover.

“This is one of the only places in Orange County with this kind of variety, since most places play a bunch of the same thing,” said Carolyn Buck, 27, of San Diego, out for a night of dancing at the club.

Weekly promotions include drink specials, bikini contests and/or free admission with college I.D. These events include Beach Night (Wednesdays, 8 to midnight), University Night (Thursdays, 9 to midnight) and Insane Sundaze (Sundays, 8 to midnight).

During happy hour (Monday through Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.) Bobby McGee’s offers $1.75 wine and draft beer (regular prices $2.75 to $5). Carnivores, rejoice! Thursday’s happy hour features a free fajitas bar, and Friday’s has a free carved beef baron buffet. It’s a really big slab of meat--take that, Socrates!

There are also games such as limbo and musical chairs for those with or without agility.

So, turn your back on those dusty old philosophers’ busts--moderation is good in all things, including moderation. Everyone needs a little excess now and then, and a trip to Bobby McGee’s Conglomeration can help.

BE THERE

Bobby McGee’s Conglomeration is at 200 S. State College Blvd., Brea. Hours: 8 p.m. to midnight Wednesday through Thursday, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday through Sunday. $5 after 9. Twenty-one and over only. (714) 529-1998.