by tony reverditto –
Orange County’s gay nightclub scene has been quite limited for some time now and that’s why the grand unveiling of Orange County’s newest nightlife destination, Strut Bar & Club in Costa Mesa, is such a thrill. Slated to open late September in the city’s vibrant Westside neighborhood, Strut (formerly the speakeasy-style bar Holiday) will “offer an all-inclusive playground for colorful queers, fabulous ladies and every form of self-expression in between.”
Designed by the award-winning firm of Davis Ink, Strut’s glittery interior will offer “two unique, nostalgia driven spaces under one roof.” Open daily, Strut Bar will offer approachable yet elevated craft cocktails and a curated menu of small plates. In an homage to one of America’s favorite and most colorful eras, Strut Club features an ‘80s vibe Friday and Saturday evenings, amusing Orange County with weekly dancing and entertainment, including a lineup of Southern California’s top DJs and performers.
Australian-born Strut CEO and Founder Luke Nero, an early nightlife connoisseur, started his career in New York flipping the hot spot Table 50 into the now infamous Mr. Black Dance Den. A veteran of the industry for over 12 years, as of late, he has distinguished himself locally as one of the premier producers of nightlife entertainment in Southern California.
The Rage Monthly caught up with Nero to find out what inspired him to open a gay club in the OC.
“The sheer lack of gay clubs in Orange County,” he offered. “There’s a tremendous void in the marketplace, and we wanted to fill it with a comfortable, safe space for all people of all interests and from all walks of life. Our guests will no longer have to travel all the way to L.A. to experience a chic venue that offers the very best in cocktail culture, visual production and musical entertainment.”
As mentioned earlier, Strut is comprised of two unique spaces. Nero explained the concept. “It is comprised of Strut Bar and Strut Club. Strut Bar will be open seven days a week from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. and offer an approachable bar setting with elevated, creative cocktails featuring fresh, local ingredients. Strut Club is a separate area and will have a different vibe. It will be open Friday and Saturday evenings from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. and highlight a dance floor, a DJ program and scheduled entertainment.”
Nero further explained the theme and design of the venue. “We designed Strut to be a little kitschy, with a ‘80s contemporary vibe. The whole space is very ‘Instagram-able’ and highly interactive with fun things to do or see around every corner.”
“There’s a tremendous void in the marketplace, and we wanted to fill it with a comfortable, safe space for all people of all interests and from all walks of life.
As to the homage mentioned earlier regarding one of America’s favorite and most colorful eras, Nero elaborated on the idea. “Strut has the vibe of an old-school discothèque—but with modern music—think mirrors, neon and a ceiling filled with disco balls. “
As to Nero’s ultimate vision and what he sees in 10 years for the club? “The great thing about Strut is that we have no set vision, other than we want it to be a welcoming space that feels like it has been an Orange County institution since the ‘80s. This leaves the door open for the experience to be ever-evolving,” he shared.
“I’m not predictable, so if people assume something is going to happen, I’ll do the complete opposite. If I’m bored, I assume everyone else is bored. That’s how I’ll know it’s time to switch it up.”
Strut Bar & Club is located at 719 W. 19th Street in Costa Mesa. The exact opening date is TBA, but is scheduled for the end of September. For more information and an exact date, check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/strutbarclub, Instagram at @strutorangecounty or go to strutoc.com.