Scouring the globe for influences raises your game -- what, did you think the Globetrotters learned the spider dribble in Harlem? Oh, they did? Internationally playing your palate like the Washington Generals, Mezé.

Opening Saturday, Mezé, named for the Greek term for appetizers, is taking a worldwide (Mediterranean, Caribbean, South American, Asian, etc.) approach to small-plated goodness in an airy lounge outfitted with dark leather sofas, diverse, colorful female portraits, and back-lit onyx panels that -- duh duh duh -- let the boys be boys!! Expect a heavy dose of seafood like pepper-crusted tuna topped with special house relish and wasabi cream, a selection of Caribbean-flavored ceviches, and spanakopita that're filled with crabs and a lingering sense of regret regarding its careless college years. Other grazing action includes veggie-friendly Thai spring rolls, marinated 'n grilled baby lamb chops, and signature house papas bravas that're infused with chipotle, because it was so close and easy and it didn't feel like cooking dinner.

They're going equally global with a rotating selection of about 20 wines while also turning out a house red, white, and seasonal sangria, with an initial winter offering that has a cider kick, a move Curly Neal picked up in England (okay, it was still Harlem).

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