When it comes to nightclubs, the phrase “all you can drink” usually means overworked bar tenders, bad sound systems and signs urging patrons not to vomit on the floor.
Not so at 9% Night Person, which recently opened a second level at its location on Jinshan South Road, next door to Roxy 99. With its LED-lit dance floor, numerous bar staff and slick promotions, 9% looks and feels like a smaller version of Room18 or VS; it is owned by the same investors.
The venue draws a similar if slightly older and more international crowd than competitors Wax and B1, with its 30-plus selection of cocktails, friendly English-speaking staff and activities like Wednesday's ladies night (NT$100 cover for girls) and Saturday's uniform party (NT$400 cover for the suitably attired).
PHOTO COURTESY OF 9% NIGHT PERSON
The goal is to change people's perceptions of clubbing, said DJ and music director Andrew Ford. “Going to 9% is like going to any of the nicer clubs, where you have to pay for admission and drinks. It's definitely a step up from the other all-you-can-drink places.”
The action at 9% unfolds on two floors. DJs spin popular rock and hip-hop tunes in the lavishly decorated B1 level, which opened after the lunar New Year. There's a small dance floor in the back, lots of tables and couches, and the club hires dancers who perform on the bar on weekends.
Things get more intense downstairs at the Second Hall, or B2 level, which goes for a more minimalist look. Here, DJs play house and hip-hop, and if the feeling is right some of the more inspired clientele will dance on the bar.
“Our bartenders will dance with the girls, and the girls like that because our bartenders are handsome, like Tom Cruise,” said manager Kenny Luo (羅偉), who has served drinks at Ministry of Sound and Luxy. He said the vibe in the Second Hall is a cross between Miami Beach and Carnegies.
Both levels at 9% have a dozen comfortable couches that can accommodate eight customers for only NT$1,000. Staff recommend that you call one week in advance for reservations.
And there's also free food. French fries, onion rings and dou gan are served once every hour.
Joining Ford on the turntables tonight is Stylus, who said he will play funky house, deep house and breaks. Tomorrow night it's Scotty Baller.
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