Nitelife Review: Suite 143

There's a new name to add to your short list of night spots here in The Bus.

Suite 143, a new, swanky bar and lounge downtown in the red-brick district, shows us a "suite" time.

The bar/lounge had it's grand opening in the beginning of this month. I had to the privilege of enjoying happy hour at the bar on their first Wednesday night in business, and definitely had a good time. (Loved their menu of specialty martinis and mixed drinks...particularly one called "The Chris Brown").

The curb appeal of this club can be deceiving at 303 S. 4th Street (near Main St.), in that the front door is tucked away, so you have to make sure you keep your eye out for the modern, rought-iron gate with the logo that, once you've entered it, leads you through a bricked hallway between two buildings.

As I was walking underneath iron fire escapes, I couldn't help but feel transported to a place like Chicago or New York -- the feeling was very urban. Once I was inside, I was greeted with a cool, blue atmosphere and a to-die-for chandelier. The interior design for the club was nicely done; there's a great use of color and lighting. The bar itself is front and center in the building, so it's a very cocktail-hour type place.

One thing I will say is that I was a little surprised by the size of the bar/lounge. It is a little on the small side. But that doesn't mean a thing, because if your M.O. is swaying to today's hottest lounge grooves, catching up with friends over signature mixed drinks or wine in an intimate space, then you will find yourself here often, I'm certain.

The size of the place could only become a problem in that it might inhibit large numbers of people from being able to hang out there, or have a party, for example. There isn't much of a dance floor either, so this wouldn't be the place to come if you're really trying to cut a rug.

Mayor Michael Coleman stepped out, gracing Suite 143 on its opening night, as well as local celebrity, Power 107.5FM radio DJ and co-host of Power Morning Crew, Misty Jordan (pictured below). President and CEO of the Columbus Urban League, Eddie Harrell and his wife were also there to be one of the first few to test out the new lounge (not pictured).

Since it's opening, the place grows in popularity with each passing week. If you ask me, I'd definitely recommend this place.

Photos courtesy of Kelsey Crenshaw of Chameleon Photo & Deisgn, and C. Wise Entertainment.