In a span of 6 months, Chennai has seen the launch of over 12 different nightspots and resto bars, all opened to the public with launch events costing over `10-15 lakhs. Club owners seem to pull out all stops in making the presence felt of top models, international talents and DJs. However, after a few months of exotic pours and the cool offers they come up with, nightclubs are fast going under the hammer for sales, auctions or simply being shut down.
Arasu Dennis, Chennai’s most well-known nightlife consultant who has opened over 12 bars and restaurants in the city, says, “It’s an unhealthy night scene here. Too many clubs open too soon without proper planning. They don’t even calculate the distance between one club and another and eat into each other’s market. DJ Manny, says.
“There is no innovation in designing night spaces and night life entertainment. Templates of successful models are only an imitation. Most club owners are wealthy and want to be in that space but don’t understand that the business is not just about alcohol.”
Many clubs like Sudaka, Ink, F Bar, Sixth Avenue, Candy Club, Big Bang Theory, Small World, Bbar, BSide have enjoyed their share of disco lights and have faded into oblivion forcing their promoters to shut shop or launch different venues after re-branding.
Regi Mathew, a senior food consultant and restaurant owner, says, “The nightlife experience goes beyond fancy posters of DJs or music, it should also include affordable pub food and menus that work for the local market. Most clubs seem to go with menus that offer big portions but less quality. They can reduce portion sizes and increase quality and better menu planning. People go to places that serve good alcohol and equally the food is important.”
A regular club goer also shared, “Chennai police have a zero tolerance to drugs and repeatedly raid venues to ensure no drugs are being peddled or used. This has ensured that certain places have decided to shut shop. These were venues that police frequented to curb drug usage and in the process club goers disappeared and found other spaces.”
Chennai is ready for the party and there are options galore, may the best nightspot keep belting out the music.
