Essex with buddies

This is one of a handful of clubs I visit on a regular basis in the Phoenix area. The club has “urban” music i.e. hip hop/reggaeton. The club is oriented toward the West side black and latino demographics. Accordingly, the dancers are primarily black and latina. Occasionally you’ll get thicker white dancers but they’re in small numbers. You can stop by afternoon and early evenings but things are relatively quiet at those hours. I’m skeptical that someone said the club is open at 6 AM but I will have to ask about this on my next visit. This club really doesn't start getting busy until after 9 PM and probably peaks around Midnight. There are “theme” nights throughout the week (latino night, ladies’ night out, etc) and there are drink specials most nights. On those nights, house brand cocktails are only $1-$2 each.

The stage dancing is mostly a “make it rain” variety. Many customers are there just to party with their buddies and don’t do much to help the dancers. If you’re the kind of person who likes to get up close and get lap dances, you may have to tip a dancer on stage to get her attention and even ask her to come to your table. There are lots of jerks at this club who expect dancers to spend time with them but don’t tip them or get lap dances. Most, if not all, dancers are there because they’re trying to get by, even make rent or utility bills. The stereotypical college girl stripping for extra pocket money does not work here.

The management is professional, even friendly. Just don’t act up, attempt to get on a stage, or get physical with people. The staff will quickly escort you to the door. This club checks IDs and even adds them to an internal database. Get ejected here and you not only be banned from this club but two others. I think the system is a great idea but it bothers some customers.