A chill lounge for the mature set?
Got this e-mail from Midnight Sun reader AVT:
Do you have a recommendation for a nightspot for an older couple (I'm
48 and the Mrs. is 47) who look younger than their age, but are looking for a fun night out where we aren't the oldest people in the house to add some needed spark? Not necessarily looking for marital advice, but a place where we can get a good drink, dance to what the "kids" dance to.
I stopped into Red Maple (pictured) one night, liked it, and plan to go there this weekend with my wife. And yes, I was definitely the oldest guy in the place, even looking like I'm in my late 30s, rather than late 40s. How about the late-night lounge scene at Pazo?
I must admit, I'm kind of at a loss here, AVT ...
I've always said Baltimore doesn't have enough places to dance, and I stand by that statement.
In terms of high-end clubs and lounges, you have Mosaic in Power Plant Live and Lux night club on Calvert Street. Would you be the oldest people there? Depends. Generally, the later it gets, the younger the crowd gets.
The late night scene at Pazo isn't half bad. But I don't know how much dancing you can do there. In fact, the owners got in some trouble when patrons started dancing one night because they don't have a live entertainment license.
Anybody have some suggestions for AVT?
(Baltimore Sun archive photo)
Erik Maza is a features reporter at the Baltimore Sun. He writes for several sections of the Sun paper and contributes weekly columns on music and nightlife. He also writes and edits the Midnight Sun blog. He often covers entertainment, business, and the business of entertainment. Occasionally, he writes about Four Loko, The Block, the liquor board, and those who practice "
Comments
The 13th Floor at the Belvedere may work for the middle-aged crowd. Live music; great romantic view of the city. A diversity of ages and ethnicities.
Posted by: Lou | July 23, 2009 11:19 AM
Aaaand ... crickets. This only goes to prove my point that Baltimore needs more of this kind of spot.
Posted by: Sam Sessa | July 23, 2009 11:46 AM
I liked Eden's Lounge. Mostly older clientele, live jazz, soul, etc. Great Ethiopian food. no cover.
Posted by: Evan | July 23, 2009 11:49 AM
For some reason Mazzy Star is in my head now.
Posted by: Owl Meat Gravy | July 23, 2009 11:53 AM
The age range at Pazo after hours is 25-55. I don't think they'd feel out of place at all. I just saw what he wrote about dancing though. My parents (in their 60s but act like they're in their 40s) like Havana Club when they come to stay.
Posted by: Neighbor | July 23, 2009 12:26 PM
The cigar bar above Ruth's Chris Steakhouse (Havana Club?) has a older and richer clientele than any other place I've been in B'more. I'd also suggest the 13th Floor.
Posted by: Bruce | July 23, 2009 12:50 PM
I'd say Hippo (1 W. Eager Street) is hands down still the best dance club in this city. That would be my recommendation.
Posted by: johnnycat | July 23, 2009 12:55 PM
Mother's.
Posted by: JTK | July 23, 2009 2:21 PM
Try the Peppermill. At 48 you'll be among the youngest. You'll probably get carded
Posted by: Robert of Cross Keys | July 23, 2009 7:48 PM
Sessa, if no one goes to the ones the city currently has, how will increased competition in the marketplace increase the number of attendees?
Perhaps you could argue through increased promotion or lowered costs, special etc, but in all likelihood it would only further dilute each businesses market share.
Posted by: John | July 23, 2009 10:52 PM
Peppermill? If you think tennis balls are for playing tennis and not for the front of your walker, then you might be too young for the Peppermill.
Posted by: Owl Meat Gravy | July 24, 2009 7:59 AM
I see quite a few older folks shaking it down at Bay Cafe that would fit your criteria.
You could also try blob's park.
Posted by: Cheese | July 24, 2009 8:25 AM
it's not so much on dancing, but Mt. Washington Tavern usually has a decent blend of people in there. i don't they'd be the oldest couple there.
Posted by: Allan | July 24, 2009 9:21 AM
Illusions in Federal Hill was named today on CNN.com as one of
9 places to party like it's 1929.
They are listed with some pretty impressive company.
Illusions makes a stylish mark landing on CNN’s list of the 9 clubs in cities like New York, LA, Boston Chicago New Orleans and San Francisco that best replicate the quintessential “Prohibition-style” architectural design.
“Prohibition-style” architectural design!!! Maybe they'll turn it into a speakeasy.
Posted by: Tomato Head | July 24, 2009 5:15 PM
I'd say Havana Club would be the best bet. Upscale lounge, strict dress code(slacks required) Valet parking and generally a safe area. Also if you dine at Ruth Chris cover is waived. 13th floor is too unpredictable with whats been going on in Mt. Vernon lately.
Posted by: J.C. | July 25, 2009 7:53 PM
Try Robert Oliver! It is an upscale restaurant, located directly next to the Meyerhoff Symphony hall at 1225 Cathedral St. Baltimore, MD. The new Entrigue event, hosted by Red Door Events offers 2 different environments. Upscale bar and patio upstairs with lounge like atmosphere and a downstairs club like environment where you can dance! First party was August 7th and was a huge success. Next event is Friday, August 21st!
Posted by: Maxim | August 19, 2009 11:38 AM