OCTOPUS LOUNGE 293 Palmerston 416-929-7214
Rating: NNNNN
VIBE In its previous incarnation on Queen West in the 90s, the Octopus was one of the focal points of the rare groove scene, and this new version attempts to revive that vibe. From Thursday to Saturday, DJs rock classic soul, deep house, disco and more in a split-level garage just south of College.
DANCING OR CHILLING There’s enough room for dancing on the lower level, but so far the crowd is more into socializing than getting down. There’s ample seating, but you’ll have to get there early to claim a spot.
LINEUP There’s no cover, and the place is popular enough on weekends that you may not be able to get in unless you arrive early or make arrangements for guest list. A long lineup generally means they’re at capacity, so it could be a long wait.
SOUND AND LIGHTS This is primarily a lounge, so don’t expect any laser light show – just dim lights and tunes. The sound isn’t nearly as loud and pounding as in an actual club, but the sound is cleaner and fuller than in the vast majority of lounges in the College area.