In total, more than 780 students “went down” for Alfie’s grand reopening on Friday night.
Students enjoyed the new velvety couches, chairs and chez-lounges while sipping flavoured martinis.
The consensus was that the new Alfie’s is just what Kingston was missing.
“It has a little bit of a city feel,” said Christina Smith, Comm ’06, as she enjoyed a martini with five of her girl friends including Idette Deboer, Comm ’06.
“It screams sex,” Deboer said of the new décor.
The girls said they would be returning on future Fridays to make it their pre-party destination.
CFRC provided an upbeat, mood-appropriate soundtrack for the night, playing lounge style hip-hop and alternative dance tracks.
By as early as 9 p.m., the bar was dotted with approximately 40 partygoers. Twenty minutes later, Alfie’s began to fill up with more than 75 people lounging on chairs and chatting at metallic tables.
At 11:30 p.m., a line-up reminiscent of old Thursday nights three years ago—when the bar was at its peak of popularity—snaked its way up and above the stairway entrance.
Inside, Jenni Gunn, ArtSci ’06 and friend Paul Mariani, ArtSci ’07 said they were impressed with the renovations.
“It’s 100 times better,” Gunn said. “It’s not so claustrophobic anymore. It feels more open.”
Mariani agreed.
“I’m actually not embarrassed to be here,” he said. “And the music is kicking.” Some customers complained of long waits at the bar, but most didn’t let it bother them, saying it was understandable as it was the staff’s first night.
Managers of the newly created TAPS (The AMS Pub Services) walked around the bar with expressions of nervous excitement as people filed in and ordered drinks.
Dave Wares, head manger of TAPS, said he was happy with the turnout.
“I hope the people outside get an opportunity to come inside,” he said. “It shows that this is something that is going to work this year.” The $27,000 renovation is an effort to bring viability back to a bar that has been plagued by financial losses and low attendance throughout the past three years.
AMS President Tyler Turnbull said he was enjoying his night and hopes the high attendance will continue.
“I’m excited by the turnout and I hope this carries on throughout the year,” he said.
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