With the weather getting colder and the parties becoming fewer down at the beach, a great option for Fairfield students is to spend a night in South Norwalk, commonly known as “SoNo.” Located off of exit 15 on I-95 south, the cobblestone roads and old-fashioned street lights line the many night spots that are worth the drive. There is a big main strip that one can walk down to go from place to place, and there are plenty of bars, clubs, restaurants and shops. For dinner, be sure to check out the fun atmosphere at Rain Ultra Lounge, a futuristic sushi bar that features three flat-screen televisions and a huge authentic raw bar. For a quick late night bite to eat, a good choice is the Pane e Panini Café, which serves up Italian style pizza, paninis, cappuccinos and lattes that are all a reasonable price-an anomaly in the area. There is so much to choose from on the main strip, Washington Street. Black Bear Saloon 80 Washington Street With its 18 big-screen televisions, pool tables and Adirondack cabin decor, this bar is perfect for a cold beer and a guaranteed good time. Known as one of the biggest hangouts for young people in SoNo, the crowd is one where a Fairfield University Student will fit right in. On Wednesday and Sunday nights, jazz and relaxed rock hold sway and the scene is on the mellow side. On Fridays and Saturdays, it is the mid-twenties age group that comes for the upbeat and modern bands. It is a great atmosphere for guys who are sick of the techno and strobes from the club scene. If you are a disc jockey follower, though, there is no need to worry. Cover songs are the “norm” and dancing is always part of the scene. If you are a fan of the atmosphere at Bear and Grill on Black Rock Turnpike, this is definitely the place for you, especially on game night. The place is huge that the lines usually are not too bad. But make sure you are 21, because they are strict. Cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays ranges from $7 to $10 and there are usually drink specials. The Loft 97 Washington Street While sitting at the Black Bear Saloon, you can hear the music blaring from The Loft. This slightly upscale hangout used to be a martini bar, and it still has a lounge feeling and an array of fancy drinks. Both levels have plenty of seating and the colorful walls seem lavish compared to the Grape. Live bands are on stage every night except Monday, and it is a great find for good music with no cover charge. Make sure you are dressed for the occasion.
Voodoo Martini Lounge 11 Washington Street If you walk a little further down the main strip you will find the club that is hands-down the best place for dancing. This lounge has even more to offer than its 130 kinds of martinis. They boast the largest dance floor in the area, velvet couches and a contemporary art motif. National and International disc jockeys spin hip hop, house and techno for the Manhattan-ish crowd. On Friday nights, DJ CoCo Chanel of Hot 97.7 spins on the scene. Lights, lasers and strobes electrify the booming music. For relaxation, there is also a back room to slip away to. There is no cover until 11 p.m., and before then you can enjoy $3 apple martinis, beer and drinks.
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