Inside: Lux Ultra Lounge

Lux is shinier, larger and not afraid to embrace the dance club limb of the ultra lounge family tree

By Paul Hiebing

November 28, 2007

 

Inside: Lux Ultra Lounge
(Credit: MikeAnthony Moffa)
As much as it tries, I-Drive is not Orlando. Though the mapmakers may quibble, you know it’s the truth – there is indeed a feeble identity to Orlando murmuring just under the surface. Fortunately, since I-Drive is its own creature, it doesn’t have to follow the norm and can give us an ultra lounge that escapes convention. As opposed to the dark wood and red-themed joints around town, Lux Ultra Lounge, at 5688 International Drive, is shinier, larger and not afraid to embrace the dance club limb of the ultra lounge family tree.

Décor
: Keep your foot on the brake when pulling into the parking lot as each car is personally given directions to either the free or valet parking, and it takes a while. After slapping down a $10 cover you’ll find yourself in a big world of white walls. Due to its enormous size, Lux made a wise decision in forgoing the traditional ultra lounge dark decoration, lest you feel you’ve fallen into the belly of a giant beast rather than a place to have fun. The VIP section is slightly elevated above the rest of the space and bedecked with plush furniture, making it actually seem special. Because spinning lights aren’t entertainment enough, there’s a small stage up front where dancing girls in little more than underwear shake around and get people on the dance floor.

The Bar: Every night is an event at Lux, but keep in mind that doesn’t always mean you’ll get a deal on drinks. Monday is service industry night, with a $2 cover until 11 p.m., $2 drinks until midnight, $2 bottled beer until 1 a.m., and $2 shots until 2 a.m.. Tuesday is international night with European house and world beat music, and no cover and free drinks until 11 p.m.. Wednesday is just Wednesday – you’re on your own. Thursday is Eskape ladies’ night, where that extra X-chromosome gets you free admittance and free drinks until midnight. Friday night often has concerts or other special events, so a quick look at the Web site would be wise. Saturday is international night again, but in this case “international” means “primarily Latin-themed” (sorry, Swedes!), and ladies drink free until midnight.

A wells mixer costs $5 – a typical I-Drive price which means, unfortunately, you’re getting an I-Drive drink. Not too strong, and over much too quickly. Also typically priced is Miller Lite at $4. On the plus side, the lines at the bar move quickly, which is good for your buzz if not your wallet.

Sounds: Each night sports a different DJ gracing the booth and spinning that night’s theme of music at face-numbing volumes.

Crowd: Girls in skimpy dresses and guys doffing sunglasses in the dark keeps the atmosphere energetic and youthful, which is only helped by Lux letting in kids between 18 and 21.

Tips: Lux’s Web site recommends that you “dress to impress,” however if you’re impressed when you simply manage to put clothes on every day that works, too.

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