An Insider's Guide to Two Local Bars
By Jspace Staff on 4/25/2011 at 9:33 PM
On weekends, head out to Helen's Keller, the bar the locals dub, the cellar, and it is no secret why— in order to enter the club you have to walk down a good number of steps into a dark dungeon. The only way you can see once you are inside, is by the bright lights flashing on the left hand wall that are reminiscent of a scene out of a Justin Timberlake music video. The bar has a unique character as it attempts to pay homage to the woman that inspired it; the first room, which stores the mini bar, looks so dated, it could be at least 200 years old. An old rotary phone is hung on the wall accompanied by lots of black and white photos and doilies on the end tables.
After enough drinks, the effect of the interior design can be transporting. The service behind bar at Helen’s is very accommodating; the bartenders are constantly doting on patrons by filling up drinks quickly. The bar seems to have a "homey" presence; partygoers filling the room are mostly local music lovers and DJ loyalists. The vibe in the air is laid back, informal, and definitely non pretentious. It is evident that that most of the partygoers at Helen’s Keller know one another, and this adds to the friendly feel in the air. Helen’s Keller hosts an impressive list of international electro and house DJs including AudioFly, Audiojunkies, Gel Abril, and other various local talents. The music played at Helens is loud and all encompassing, which creates for itself a true underground experience.
Cat and Dog
Located on Carlibach Street, only a few years old and owned by the same group as the legendary Breakfast Club. Cat and Dog has a huge following worldwide, and boasts patrons such as the Black Eyed Peas, and Quentin Tarantino. It is known for its private parties that host visits from electro giants such as Dave Seaman & Tim Green. The club is extremely exclusive and difficult to get into; but be pushy enough and you can get in. The crowd there consists mainly of a mix of famous artists and models, and random icons from the city. Reminiscent of a modern day Studio 54, it has a dark and obnoxious vibe, which if you get lucky enough to be admitted into, makes you feel special.
The interior decor seems ironic in a sense, because although it is the most exclusive club in Israel, its effect is unassuming. The Cat and Dog looks like a pub-not intimidating in appearance or frivolous in the least. Catch a sight of the back wall and see expressions painted in black and white; endless quotes in Hebrew strung along, line after line, saying things like: "המינגווי אמר שגבר לא קיים לפני שהוא שיכור" (meaning: "Hemingway says a man does not exist before he drinks") The writing on the wall only adds to the hedonistic air. The crowd is mixed with old and young, famous Israelis sprinkled with the occasional tourist, all dancing together in a smoky haze of electro happiness. This is an overwhelming positive experience not to be missed but get your sleep and don't come too early. One in the morning is the best time to arrive!


Comments