Described as the kind of club-lounge that everyone had been hoping for by promoter and PR man, Patrick Kamel, Purple is a sophisticated addition to Cairo s not-so-long list of clubs and bars. Purple Lounge and Bar introduced itself to a select few on March 13 on the bottom floor of the Imperial Boat along the Nile in Zamalek, entertaining nearly 300 guests with a fully-stocked, open bar manned by surprisingly speedy bartenders who kept the drinks coming. It was a welcome change to the usual wait regulars are accustomed to in other venues around the city. The night featured a balanced mix of house, R&B, and pop music by resident DJ Roro, who was accompanied by pleasantly provocative video clips on the flat screen behind the bar. Doors opened at 9 pm and guests lingered on past 3 am dancing and sipping cocktails while enjoying the Nile view. Described by management as plush, sensual, mystical, decadent, Purple came out as cool, fun, and relaxed with chairs and sofas on which guests could rest and chat with friends or shake it on the dance floor. Subtly classy in its décor, which included glass chandeliers and dimmed purple lights behind the bar and along the walls, Purple presented itself as sleek and laid-back, but not anything less than an exclusive lounge. The lighting was simply perfect; not too dark, not too bright, and there was a total absence of the customary obnoxious neon lights that blind you during house beats at other places. It's a class act, balancing lighting, music, and décor in a very non-obtrusive way. Co-manager Nayrouz Abouzid explained that the name Purple was inspired by the fact that purple was the most fashionable color in the world at the moment - on run ways and in the media. The choice of name reflects the character of the place as trendy and highly selective. It s a lounge, and lounging comes naturally to Egyptians, Kamel added. Though presenting itself as the new sexy chic place to be on evenings, Purple is reminiscent of its predecessor, Bliss. The lights have changed, as have the furniture and upholstery, but the overall look is generally the same as before. The bar is still stationed where it once was, as is the dance floor and overall layout of the place. Despite this, Kamel believes Purple has what it takes to be the new best thing in Cairo. What keeps a successful club running is great music, a great crowd, and a great set-up. Purple has all three, he said. Starting April, Purple will begin its lunch service that will feature Thai food prepared by a Thai Chef, as well as provide an assortment of sushi. Abouzid personally recommends the salmon steak. Other future events to look forward to include live bands and percussionists accompanying DJ Roro at least once a month, and Lady's Nights on Tuesdays. Take advantage ladies: you get free martinis until 12:30am. Purple's reservation only and door selection policy will be strictly enforced. Only couples 21 and over are allowed in. Regulars will be awarded memberships that include discounts for Zamalek shops, and priority over other reservations. Dress code is smart casual; that's perhaps one of Purple s best qualities. For more information, calendar of events, or to make a reservation, call 010-1199093.
