Status
This Hamtramck hangout is positioning itself to be “the new urban hotspot,” says owner Murray Hodgson. And, at just five months old, it’s already on its way.
Thanks to hook ups with FM 98 WJLB in January, Mix 92.3 in February and Hot 102.7 this month, the Shadow Bar stays packed with party-goers ready to get their groove on to R&B hits.
“Each station has their own night,” Hodgson says.
Gear
Because there’s a slightly older crowd on Friday, “we allow guys to wear hats, but no baseball hats,” says Manager Peter Hendrickson.
Other than that, think club wear – no work boots, gym shoes or athletic wear. Jeans are cool.
Mood
The beats from the radio station help determine the mood of the club. A younger crowd tunes in Thursdays to hang with Bushman and DJ Fingers from WJLB, and on Saturdays plan to chill with Reggie Reg from Hot 102.7. An older, sophisticated club crowd usually drops in on Fridays to party to classic soul and R&B hits with Donafay of Mix 92.3.
“We have a completely different crowd each day and that’s what makes it so much fun,” Hendrickson says.
With two levels, a large dance floor and a slightly raised stage where the Shadow Bar dancers work the pole, there’s never a dull moment at this seductive spot.
Large television screens show outlines of sexy sirens swaying to the beats while queen-sized beds and couches on the upper level encourage patrons to really get comfortable.
When things start to heat up inside the 10,000 square-foot club, CO2 shoots up from the floor to instantly cool things down.
“I like Shadow Bar ‘cause it was easy for me to find off the freeway,” says Fred Maples of Southgate. “It’s in Hamtramck, so it distances itself from the other clubs. I have a really good time. I went there on a Saturday, and I heard Thursdays are off the hook.”
Pick me up
Both the bar on the lower level and the one on the white-bricked second level provide every drink your heart desires. Four new frozen drink machines add to the selection. There’s no food here.
Entertainment
Between the radio personalities and DJs, Shadow Bar dancers, dominatrixes and hidden make-out booths, you’ll never be at a loss for entertainment inside the Shadow Bar.
Hit the dance floor Thursdays to take part in one of several hustles or just observe from the second floor.
“Everyone loves to dance,” Hendrickson says.
“This is the vibe we are trying to create,” Hodgson says, “A world-class nightclub for working class people.”
