Bijoux: With the backing of Kyky and Unik (owners of the now defunct PM), we’re betting Bijoux will be the late-summer hot spot, but for now the subterranean cocktail lounge under Merkato 55 is keeping it cool and staying below the radar. Not to say that the lack of elbow-to-elbow action down below will make it easy to get in. There are rumors that the bouncer stands behind a two-way tinted glass door, although we found none of that when we went. We did, however, have to pull strings to strut our way past the black entryway, down a flight of stairs, and through the hallway that leads to Bijoux. The dim, low-ceilinged lounge is sectioned off into four small areas, and like PM, tables are aplenty so expect to feel slightly out of place if you’re not getting bottle service. Cocktails go for $18 (more than GoldBar!), so we were disappointed by the lack of poshness. That said, we’re happy to report that the amiable and entertaining Kyky and Unik can be spotted grooving to the pop, old-school, and rap beats at their table near the DJ booth…at least until the summer’s end. |
