By Carolyn Haswell
Northside News
If you are anything like me, you have passed by Lola’s Hi/Lo Lounge (617 N. Sherman Ave.) for about a year now thinking “I’ve got to check that out, but am I young, cool or hip enough?” Or “Is there a dress code to a place like this? I’ve never been to a lounge.”
Well, my friend, I have felt the same, and if you happen to be in the camp of “I’ll get around to it,” this is the article for you. On a whim, my partner and I (ages 27 and 47) took the plunge on a random Wednesday after our busy work days.
As I walked through the door, I was immediately transported through every sense; it was a feast for my eyes. I was genuinely surprised how much thought and effort went into this place. Now, I hear you, “Well, what did it look like?” Listen, as frustrating as it sounds, it would hurt me deeply to take that experience away from you.
So instead let me tell you about the diverse seating from high-tops, low-tops, to booths, and access to both a louder area near the bar and a quieter laid-back area for easier talking. There is an easy-to-read menu, where we tried an appetizer of Esquites (a Mexican corn dish, kind of like an off-the-cob elote), as well as their Old Fashioned and Martini.
I found the waiters to be friendly, the environment to be welcoming, and most importantly, I could talk to my partner easily. We were dressed in our work clothes, and other couples, families and singles were dressed similarly. You don’t need to dress in any special way. However, you might feel compelled to the next time (wink).
Here’s the kicker, we went back the next day. We thoroughly enjoyed both experiences, and I hope you do, too. The next time you drive by in the evening, how about you give it a try?
