Tabu
Westgate Street, Cardiff
This venue on Westgate Street has struggled to find its feet and establish an identity since long-standing incumbent Bar M closed its doors over four years ago. From a Moroccan themed club to R’n’B haunt it has taken on many different guises. Now with brand new owners, brand new management and a totally new personality the current manifestation Tabu seems to have hit a chord, and is bringing in a totally new crowd. This seems to be done by emphasising a slick quality that pumps through this club’s very sinews. Now encompassing the whole ground floor and basement, the first thing that strikes you about the interior is the attention to detail. That attention is also extended into everything from the vast cocktail list through to the service. Knowledgeable baristas are fast becoming a dying breed in South Wales so it’s good to know you’re stepping into an environment where such traditional values are still respected. Step downstairs and you can’t help but notice the striking illuminated crucifix, which lights up the whole corner adding an extra touch of cool as it contrasts with the plush black surroundings. The music is deliberately eclectic, with a quality control on good music meaning that all genres seem to be catered for as long as they pass the quality test. Mani, the ex-Stone Roses and current Primal Scream bassist, was the guest DJ for the launch, and according to my sources expect a lot of the same calibre guest DJ’s in future. Like Mani himself, Tabu oozes an understated cool with a fun, mischievous streak.
Punters: Style conscious music lovers
Drinks: The best in cocktails
Ambience: Understated cool
Contact: 029 2039 9400
Jo Roberts

Tonic Experience
Venues vary
Established by gregarious sister act Claire and Sarah Griffiths, Tonic Experience isn’t the usual new bar or club you’re used to reading about in these pages – they’re an exclusive social club for busy professionals looking to unwind in style. Events vary each month at different venues, but I was lucky enough to secure an invite to Tonic's Champagne and Gourmet Cupcake party at the recently refurbished Parc Hotel in Cardiff. At first I was little sceptical, worried about feeling out of my depth with the capital's glitterati - but I needn't have worried. Sure, some clientele looked as though they were unfamiliar with Cardiff's less ritzy venues, but there was no room for pretentious posturing at this party. A mini bottle of vintage champagne was offered with a welcoming smile on the door - I duly accepted. A series of technicolour cupcakes were dotted around the venue, all begging to be devoured. Away from the champagne and gourmet cupcakes, Tonic also run a series of events aimed at the young, adventurous male. An exclusive poker night is the ideal opportunity to sharpen up your card skills and take on fellow Tonic members, as well as an upcoming private screening of the new James Bond film and glamorous after-party at Soda Bar. If you're still feeling lucky, Tonic's diary is crammed full of sporting events such as boxing, cricket and racing, stopping at some of the UK’s best venues.
For further details on membership log onto www.tonic-experience.co.uk
Keith Carey

Stick with us, we’ll show you a good time

<<<BACK This venue on Westgate Street has struggled to find its feet and establish an identity since long-standing incumbent Bar M closed its doors over four years ago. From a Moroccan themed club to R’n’B haunt it has taken on many different guises. Now with brand new owners, brand new management and a totally new personality the current manifestation Tabu seems to have hit a chord, and is bringing in a totally new crowd. This seems to be done by emphasising a slick quality that pumps through this club’s very sinews. Now encompassing the whole ground floor and basement, the first thing that strikes you about the interior is the attention to detail. That attention is also extended into everything from the vast cocktail list through to the service. Knowledgeable baristas are fast becoming a dying breed in South Wales so it’s good to know you’re stepping into an environment where such traditional values are still respected. Step downstairs and you can’t help but notice the striking illuminated crucifix, which lights up the whole corner adding an extra touch of cool as it contrasts with the plush black surroundings. The music is deliberately eclectic, with a quality control on good music meaning that all genres seem to be catered for as long as they pass the quality test. Mani, the ex-Stone Roses and current Primal Scream bassist, was the guest DJ for the launch, and according to my sources expect a lot of the same calibre guest DJ’s in future. Like Mani himself, Tabu oozes an understated cool with a fun, mischievous streak.
Punters: Style conscious music lovers
Drinks: The best in cocktails
Ambience: Understated cool
Contact: 029 2039 9400
Jo Roberts