Norwalk's wild side

Tara Renee Settembre
Special Correspondent


Photo by Paul Desmarals

July 9, 2003

Recently some of my ole’ Greenwich High School friends asked me to go clubbing with them in “SoNo.” Now I have lived in Connecticut for most of my life, but I wasn’t yet familiar with this nickname for South Norwalk. My much-hipper friends couldn’t believe this, of course, but after several dimayed looks and annoyed shakes of the head they informed my clueless self that SoNo was the big nightclub hot spot.

I soon discovered that they were, indeed, right, for the town was definitely hopping on the Friday night that I visited. In SoNo, the streets were just lined with restaurants, nightclubs and shops, with quaint old-fashioned storefronts. And there were people everywhere handing out flyers and coupons for the various bars and clubs that cater to the many twenty-somethings who were on the crowded strip. (I met people who traveled from Hartford, New Haven, Fairfield, and Westchester, just to get their groove on in SoNo.)

All the clubs I visited were within a mile radius and in short walking distance from each other. So here — if there is anybody else out there who doesn’t already know — is a list of some of those SoNo clubs and what they have to offer:

Ego Lounge 18 South Main St., South Norwalk.
It’s not a huge place, but it’s big enough to socialize and have fun. One half of the club is a bar with blue lights and funky, white space-aged decor. Next to the bar, there are two rooms with dance floors (but they don’t always open the second room.). If you are one of the few lucky enough to snag a seat, there is a mini-lounge with comfy big white sofas overlooking the dance area where you can catch a breather in between songs and enjoy a cocktail. The music varies from Hip Hop to House to techno. By the way, the dress code is pretty classy, so guys be sure and loose those grubby jeans. If ordering shots, do try their own invention– a Smurf Bite. Open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays for those 21 and over. For more information go to www.egobarlounge.com or call 854-9116.

Liquid 112 Washington St.
There are two levels of dancing and entertainment at this upscale nightclub in the center of Washington St. They have live bands and a mix of DJs on both levels depending on the day, but are mainly known to play R&B and Hip Hop. Ages: 21 and up. SoNo club frequenter and Greenwich resident, Jason Calabro, 21, says, “Liquid is cool looking, and their lighting effects are good.” He also adds that their dress code is no longer as strict as it used to be.

Jason’s friend, Mike Delcon, 23, of Harrison, NY, warns that Liquid can get extremely crowded and hot, especially downstairs, and recommends getting their early to avoid a line.
For more information on their hours and events call, 866-0800 or try their Web site, www.liquidsono.com

Shenanigan’s Night Club 80 Washington St., 853-0142.
With its pub-like feel, this place is known for being the area’s only rock bar with a nice sized stage for bands and the more courageous (or intoxicated?) dancers.
“Shenanigan’s has wooden floors and is sort of rustic looking,” says former Greenwich resident, Stefanie DeMichele, 21. She adds, “It’s not as fancy as some of the other clubs, but it’s the kind of place where you can go in jeans, have a beer and watch live entertainment.”

Bamboo 86 Washington St., 855-8900. www.bamboosono.com.
This bar and restaurant – not dance club – has an Asian atmosphere, puffy bar stools, and a flat screen TV up on one of their brick walls. The music may be quieter, but this bar is a great place for customers to talk with friends and relax before or after clubbing. By the way the owner is “The Sopranos” actor, Joe Pantoliano.

Bar Eleven 11 Washington St.

Bar 11 claims to be SoNo’s largest nightclub and prides itself on offering a visual and sound experience to its customers. With its dark atmosphere, DJs, large dance floor and booths, this club is a good place to hide out in and have a good time. The doors open early at this bar/nightclub — 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. For further information, call 831-8472 or go to www.sonobar11.com

Club Eldorado 22 Isaac St.
Popular for their Latin music nights, this club can be very lively. For more information call, 299-0083.

The Loft 97 Washington St., 838-6555.
Open seven days a week, The Loft has two-levels, and great decor. The music keeps the crowd lively. Expect to hear everything from Motown hits to party favorites to rock classics while you’re there. Guys, be sure to wear slacks and a collared shirt — otherwise the bouncer might not let you in.

For those who are not yet 21, here are some alternatives:
 Club 2001, 71 Wall St., South Norwalk, 289-0175.
Here there slogan is, “18 To Party, 21 To Drink - Dress to Impress!”
This club is in a new revamped theater that was originally built in the late 1800s. There’s a stage you can dance on, and balconies where you can lounge and take in the view.
On Wednesdays, Bar Eleven (mentioned earlier), hosts non-alcoholic teen night.
Sometimes, Terrace Club, 1938 W. Main St. in Stamford has some Sunday nights designated for under 21 dancing. For future dates call 961-9770 and keep a look out for their fliers advertising dates as well.
You could also travel to Danbury instead and try Tuxedo Junction, 2 Ives St., which features live cover bands, DJs, dancing, a lounge area, pool tables, and an outdoor patio. This club is usually only open to those of legal drinking age, but on Thursday nights the admission is 18 and up. For those under 18, Tuxedo Junction also has ‘No Alcohol High School Dance Parties’ and teen nights on various Sundays. The next one is scheduled for July 27. For more information call, 748-2561.