8 1/2 Ultra Lounge
From the outside, the building housing 8 ½ Ultra Lounge and Piranha nightclub is fairly unremarkable. The squat, stone-encrusted building on the south end of the so-called "Fruit Loop" is far less glamorous than its neighbor, long-time favorite nightclub Gipsy. But don't be fooled by the inconspicuous exterior – this latest addition to the Las Vegas' gay nightlife scene is so remarkable that to miss experiencing 8 ½ and Piranha could cause some serious regret.
Though physically and financially attached, the ultra lounge and the nightclub are two distinctive, unique venues. 8 ½ is an intimate, comfortable lounge decorated in rich, warm ambers, reds and browns. It almost has the atmosphere of a pimped-out lodge – stone walls, a fireplace and wood-paneled support columns are accented by rust-colored, curvy love seats, red and gold draperies and curtains, and a black marble bar top with gold-accented wrought-iron stools.
Unlike a number of other bars in the area, there are no video poker machines, a feature that is always refreshing in our gaming-based city. The lounge does feature a pool table, dance floor, stage and even a retro tabletop arcade game console featuring Ms. Pac Man and Galaga. LCD screens scattered throughout the venue display custom graphics, and a state-of-the-art sound system provides a constant soundtrack for a low-key, fun night at 8 ½. -vegas.com
