Sunday, August 31, 2008

A Moment of Zen

A new nightclub opened on Friday, August 22nd at Station Square called Zen. The entrance is on the side of the Freight House (125 W. Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh) where the short-lived Palm Bar was previously located. The red, velvet robes, narrow entrance and bouncers at the entrance make the atmosphere seem classy, if a little imposing as you enter the door.


The configuration of the front section is similar to that of Palm Bar before it. A circular bar with multiple levels of drink racks and black-clad bartenders occupy the section immediately past the entrance. A large, open room with ornate pan-Asian themed seating and wall-coverings allows for a large area to sit and socialize, with sections of seating reserved for bottle service. It was described as a prime-porno film set. A second mezzanine level with a small bar and additional seating provides an excellent view of the seating area, bar and a separate room with a dance floor.

The dance area is what really distinguishes Zen from its predecessor. Zen has expanded from Pal Bar's original area and includes a rectangular, lower level dance floor surrounded by a short wall with faux grass around it. The grass is actually a nice touch. The dance room also has a classy atmosphere with comfortable wall seating for wallflowers and a curtain wall with small stones embedded in it.

The main disadvantage to the club is the location, which is not very visible while driving past on Station Square Drive. In addition, the entrance to the club is not highly visible when walking by, because it is tucked into the corner of the Freight House. Overall, the redesign was worth it and the concept is a great one for Pittsburgh.

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