VIBING OUT - BUNGALOW 56

 

The first rule about Bungalow56 is YOU HAVE TO TALK ABOUT BUNGALOW 56. A well-kept secret in the heart of the city, should find its way into the (h)ear(t)s of the people in the city. Those who seek pure entertainment in an authentic environment with good music and super delicious drinks, will not be disappointed.  

Bungalow56 is as unique and original as its name, as well as the bike which used to be its trademark, conquering not the streets but the eyes of those passing by the number 56 on Reid Street. Right upon entering the place, all the way in from its wooden door & up the staircase, I could immediately feel a sense of being at home. It is not often that you find a bar in a popular corner of a city, welcoming you like that.  

The playlist will set up the tone to energize the customers' drinking experience & initiate interactions. In the most selfish of times, we live in, it is a blessing to find a spot that invites you to genuinely hang out. Opposite to a mainstream bar, this social space has the ability to attract a variety of individuals, different cultures, different backgrounds & provide them the opportunity to unite themselves through music, talks, and dance. Give and take the energy you want, or need for what matters. 

Despite the space being cut in two, division is not at all its concept. One bar area has an imposing screen, a promise of the special happenings. A couch & chairs for those who would prefer a comfortable setting. On the other side, different furnishings, paintings, dim lighting, it is the little touches here & there that make the bar interesting (I absolutely adore some of the tiki mugs & the refrigerator behind the bar).  

The staff themselves are friendly &, like the crowds, unpretentious. What really made me return in the first place, was the exceptional, delicious & inspiring cocktails I tried, all in the magical hands of Sula, the charismatic mixologist. I have always considered this trade as an art, & I am delighted to see that Sula has all the key components to uplift his creations to pieces of art for the patrons. The aesthetics (beautifully presented cocktails), the flavour (the best pineapple margarita I have tasted in my entire life, no exaggeration), the atmosphere (a very engaging bartender with good stories to narrate while focusing on his customized service). 

Let's talk about soul, and what lies beneath this energy; The artist introducing us to his universe. In this life there are ideas, and there are human beings who are ideas. That is something you can definitely say about Glen. The story of founding and naming Bungalow56 is quite fascinating. Connecting the dots between the place of his origin, 56 Hope Road & his vision of a down to earth, more spiritual experiences, his past & future ideals combine into the here & now of nightlife. The continuous transformation of the bar justifies its self-proclamation as a counterculture hang out. Leave your bias out & be open to what the night will bring out; the best in you, the less norm in you. I cannot wait to see more of the thematic nights, installations, talks, in this vibrant indie concept. 

Squirrelled away on Reid Street, this well-kept secret spread only by word of mouth, is a hidden must in the life of this island. All pose abandon, ye who enter here. 

Bungalow56 is open Tuesday to Wednesday 5pm to 12am & Thursday to Saturday 5 pm to 3 am. With Reggae nights on Fridays & happenings across the year. The space is also available for private events. 

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