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Evolve speakeasy lounge offers new nightlife option

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Mstira Weeks behind the bar at Evolve with some non-traditional drink “glasses” (Photograph by Duncan Hall)

A new nightclub has opened in the heart of Hamilton.

It is located behind an unmarked door on the second floor of the Bermudiana Arcade on Queen Street in the capital.

Once the venue’s “secret” location is found, a password, which changes weekly and is posted on an Instagram page each Tuesday, is required for entry.

The new enterprise is Evolve speakeasy lounge, owned by Vic Ball, Mstira Weeks and her husband, Shane Weeks.

Ms Weeks said: “The idea of a speakeasy is unique to Bermuda and Evolve is not typical — it’s a speakeasy with a twist.

“We researched the concept of a speakeasy with entertainment, and a themed restaurant.

“Evolve is hidden — that is the speakeasy element — and when you come in, the décor is more of a themed restaurant.”

The drinks menu includes wine, mocktails and beer, but is mainly cocktail-based, many of which are served in a non-traditional manner.

Ms Weeks said: “Our drinks are exotic and unique. There is nothing here that you will see anywhere else in Bermuda. That’s a fact. A lot of our drinks aren’t even served in glasses.”

She added: “For us, it’s about creating an experience. When you come in, it’s about a great atmosphere with great people where you can laugh, talk and enjoy a cocktail.

“We’ve heard from people who say they feel like they’re in New York, Miami, Amsterdam or London, which is great because that was our intent.”

In addition to the wide range of drinks, “Chef Chiko” (Michiko Campbell) serves up a tapas menu, and also prepares brunch one Sunday each month.

Live music is a regular feature, with a monthly line-up that includes saxophonist Tino Martinez and pianist Raymond George, TMQ jazz band, Working Title, and Tido and friends. Anyone interested in performing at the venue is welcome to reach out, Ms Weeks said.

DJ Bakari Smith provides “speakeasy vibes” at the monthly brunch, Mr Ball said.

The all-Bermudian staff of nine includes two bartenders who are graduates of Bacardi’s Shake Your Future bartender training programme, including Alvin-Ae Landy, a winner of the award for Best Tequila Cocktail for her concoction, Patrón in Pink, at the recent Art of the Pour competition.

Evolve’s décor is ever-changing; it was themed for Hallowe’en throughout October and will soon become themed for the festive season in a partnership with Pitt and Company that will see highlighted cocktails created with Stoli vodka, Milagro tequila and Cockspur rum.

Mr Ball said the venue, which seats 47 and is licensed for 75, is available for a range of private events.

Evolve is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm until 11pm, and Friday and Saturday from 4pm until midnight

Vic Ball peeks out from behind the “secret” door at Evolve (Photograph by Duncan Hall)
Evolve bartender Alvin-Ae Landy won an award for her concoction, Patrón in Pink (Photograph by Duncan Hall)

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Published November 05, 2024 at 8:00 am (Updated November 05, 2024 at 7:41 am)

Evolve speakeasy lounge offers new nightlife option

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