On Thursday, February 16, Bloom Ultra Lounge gracefully commenced its initial opening phase, marking a new chapter in the downtown nightlife scene. Situated at 114 N. Tejon St., #20, this establishment occupies a unique subterranean space that it shares with neighboring entities Shrunken Head Tiki and Bell Brothers Brewing, accessible via a staircase just off Tejon St.
Strategic Downtown Location
The lounge’s strategic underground position adds to its allure, providing patrons with an intimate and exclusive experience away from the hustle and bustle of street-level activity.
The Vision Behind Bloom Ultra Lounge
In conversations dating back to October of the previous year, Stephon Black, one of the co-owners, shared that Bloom Ultra Lounge had been slated for a mid-November opening in 2022. However, typical construction and renovation hurdles pushed back these plans. Black, alongside co-owner Colter Lillich, whom he met over a decade ago within the industry, envisions the lounge as a sanctuary of sophisticated taste without the steep prices. Their ambition is to cultivate an environment that prioritizes premium cocktails, set against the backdrop of an Electronic Dance Music (EDM) beat, encouraging both relaxation and dance.
Ambiance and Offerings
Bloom aims to strike the perfect balance between opulence and affordability. The lounge focuses on a cocktail-driven menu, complemented by an assortment of small plates, fondue options, and desserts, enriching the social and culinary experience.
Key Features of Bloom Ultra Lounge
- Exclusive Location: Nestled in a unique underground setting at 114 N. Tejon St., #20, offering a secluded and intimate nightlife experience;
- Sophisticated Ambiance: Designed with fine decor, aiming to provide a high-end bar atmosphere that remains welcoming and reasonably priced;
- Cocktail-Centric: A focus on premium, inventive cocktails alongside a selection of small plates, fondue, and desserts to complement the drinks;
- Music and Dance: An EDM soundtrack provides the backdrop for an energizing dance floor, catering to those looking to unwind through music and movement;
- Community Connection: Co-owners Stephon Black and Colter Lillich bring over a decade of industry experience and a shared vision to the venture, highlighting their deep roots and commitment to the local nightlife scene.
Comparative Analysis: Bloom Ultra Lounge vs. Traditional Downtown Bars
| Feature | Bloom Ultra Lounge | Traditional Downtown Bars |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Subterranean, offering a unique and intimate setting | Typically street-level, with direct street access |
| Ambiance | High-end with fine decor, yet accessible in pricing | Varies, from casual to upscale without a consistent focus on affordability |
| Menu Focus | Cocktail-forward with curated food options | Often prioritize a broad beverage selection with standard bar fare |
| Music and Entertainment | EDM-centric with a dedicated dance area | Diverse, with many lacking a designated dance space |
| Innovation | Introduces a unique blend of luxury and accessibility, emphasizing a modern approach to nightlife | Generally adhere to traditional bar concepts without significant deviation |
| Community Engagement | Founded by industry veterans with a passion for enhancing local nightlife | Ownership and vision can vary greatly, affecting community connection |
This table showcases how Bloom Ultra Lounge sets itself apart from conventional downtown bars by offering an innovative blend of luxury, accessibility, and a modern approach to entertainment, music, and dining.
Initial Impressions and Future Plans
Although it’s still early days for Bloom Ultra Lounge, a brief visit revealed a promising start. The anticipation for the lounge has been building, and the soft opening allowed for a sneak peek into what promises to be a vibrant addition to the downtown entertainment landscape. A more in-depth review will follow as Bloom finds its rhythm in the coming months, but the initial impressions hint at a successful fusion of luxury and accessibility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bloom Ultra Lounge is poised to redefine the downtown nightlife experience with its unique underground location, sophisticated yet accessible ambiance, and a keen focus on cocktail craftsmanship. By blending the energy of EDM with a refined menu, it caters to a diverse clientele seeking quality in both music and culinary offerings.
The vision of its seasoned co-owners, Stephon Black and Colter Lillich, ensures that Bloom not only offers an unparalleled night out but also contributes significantly to the vibrancy of the local entertainment scene. As Bloom Ultra Lounge continues to evolve and carve its niche, it stands as a testament to the dynamic possibilities of nightlife innovation, promising to be a beacon for those in search of a memorable, high-quality experience.