"Deciphering the Code"
West 5 is my local gay bar/pub and over the last few years I’ve been here a few times. The recent change in management of the venue has left me intrigued to what they will do with the venue.
Upon entering, I was warmly greeted by DJ Fanny Love and she introduced me to those that were there. I felt like part of the group and I could see that there is a real laid back, community feel.
The night started out with chatter and mingling, and subtly moved onto contemporary hits playing. The atmosphere was filled with laughter from groups of girls; some women standing in the shadows having a little boogie, while others were just having a catch-up. The night wrapped up with a live performance by singer, Saskia - this did get the crowd involved!
The venue is imitate and offers a respite from the usual hangouts, with the focus on conversation opposed to drunken frolicking.
I was blessed in that a few of my besties joined, if I’d gone alone I would have perhaps had a different experience all together. As this was the opening night for Code, I can see it gaining momentum in the coming months.
On the whole, as far as first nights go, the evening went well. I feel that the rain and location of West 5 would make it difficult to attract people from farther out.
However, it doesn’t try and be anything it isn’t and I praise it for that. As I said, the community feel of the place makes me hopeful that it could be a prominent place for the gays of west London to hang out.
The evening was like a regular pub with a buzzing group of people having a good time without any airs or graces, or glances like some Soho hangouts. I would definitely recommend the night to locals, in that it’s a great place to meet gay people. The drink selection is fairly standard and reasonably priced, the music would suit all tastes too.
By Le Fin
