Isn’t that the hat from Benny & Joon ? (Via myspace.com/samantharonson )

Hawaiian Tropic Zone kicks off the launch of its nightclub Torrid with DJ Samantha Ronson, who has a — let’s say unconventional relationship with Lindsay Lohan . Because last week’s New York City outburst was centered around Ronson, there’s been speculation that Lohan will show up to Torrid tonight. Maybe she just wants to check out what her mother was hyping up .

UPDATE: Ronson and Lohan were seen dining together at Strip House. Now if only one of the Olsen twins were in town …

Joining Ronson will be Playboy playmate Amanda Paige and American Curves cover model Brooke Banx. On Saturday, Torrid will keep things going with Strip Las Vegas’ May release party featuring cover model Valentina Vaughn, Penthouse pet and author Dr. Z and pets Cassia Riley, Justine Jolie, Jamie Lynn and Penthouse Pet of the Year Erica Ellyson. Which should be enough to satisfy even your, frankly disgusting, licentiousness. Click for more words and pictures »

By Jason Scavone

Newman from Seinfeld will absolutely be starring in The David Burke Story.

Chef David Burke dropped in on his Hawaiian Tropic Zone Monday night, and we can only hope he hit someone on the knuckles with a wooden spoon in the kitchen for doing something wrong, in the fine tradition of Italian grandmothers everywhere.

Starting this Friday, HTZ will convert its bar/patio area to the nightclub Torrid. Not to be confused with Hot Topic’s sister store. If you show up looking for goth clothes, there is at least a 64 percent chance you will be disappointed.

Torrid will operate Wednesdays through Saturdays, and will be kicking off the new nom de club with DJs Samantha Ronsen and Direct, Playboy playmate Amanda Paige, American Curves model Brooke Banx and others. Stay tuned.

By Jason Scavone