Downtown Phoenix welcomes a blast from the past as the new Thundercat Lounge opens its doors, hitting the city's nightlife scene with a heavy dose of '80s and '90s nostalgia. Tucked away at 747 W. Van Buren St. in a historic Art Deco building, the club promises to transport patrons back in time with its retro-themed interiors and old-school entertainment.
In a statement obtained by Phoenix New Times, owner Jeremiah Gratza, whose resume includes a stint as one of the original owners of Cobra Arcade Bar, shared his enthusiasm for the era: "I’m totally an '80s kid who grew up playing video games, watching movies on VHS and going to the mall." His latest venture is fashioned after this formative period, right down to the '80s mall food court atmosphere and Patrick Nagel prints adorning the walls.
The club doesn't just look the part, it sounds it too, with a music policy centered around '80s and '90s tracks. The launch was accompanied by an array of themed nights and a cocktail menu peppered with references to the decades. As per the vibes, the space features mirrored ceilings and neon lights, while adjoining rooms take design cues from iconic franchises such as "Star Wars" and "Blade Runner."
Jeremiah J. Gratza, co-owner of Thundercat Lounge, described to ABC15 the club's various draws, "As soon as you walk in, you're going to be greeted with a Star Wars light tunnel coming at you." Indeed, the attention to detail runs throughout the venue, from the “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” and “Saved by the Bell” inspired restrooms to a private Japanese-style karaoke room conceptualized with a "Blade Runner" aesthetic in mind.
The lounge is nestled in one of the few remaining freestanding Art Deco buildings in Phoenix designed by architect Orville A. Bell in 1938, has already stirred excitement among the locals eager for a taste of yesteryear—delivered with a modern twist.
