Discover Café Hotel, a bar that brings together older people in a clubbing atmosphere in SP

On a Saturday night, the small Café Hotel bar, in Pinheiros, has the floor full when the DJ plays the most listened to songs from the 1980s and 90s. Glasses are passed from hand to hand with martinis and different types of wine. It is possible to see here and there white hair, designer clothes, vests and a certain flirtatious atmosphere.

The address, in the west side of São Paulo, does not usually attract the famous novinhos and novinhas, like so many other nightclubs in the city. Installed in a 200 square meter house from the 1940s, the place brings together people looking for a more elegant destination, with eclectic music and people who have long since graduated from college.

The decor is done with a red tile ceiling, exposed brick walls and a coffee roaster right next to the DJ. The partners Marcelo Nazareth, Rafael Berçot —both also in charge of the bars Guillotina and Carrasco—, Caio Tucunduva and Sérgio Barros wanted to give the house the look of an old and classic hotel bar.

The look is completed by a certain traveler spirit, which comes from the pictures on the walls. They are framed images with scenes from around the world, such as the streets of Bangkok, Thailand, all taken by Tucunduva.

Opened in March 2020, a few days before the Covid-19 pandemic worsened in Brazil and forced the closure of all establishments, the bar only reopened in October last year.

That’s when the regulars could actually get to know the three environments. At the entrance is an open space with a sofa and high stools. Then there’s the drinks bar and the dance floor. Moving towards the back, after crossing a door, you reach a more reserved space, also in the open, with a private bar, tables and sofas — an area that is only open on busier days or for events.

But coffee is not just for decoration. Grains also appear as ingredients in drinks. The highlight is the espresso martini, which costs R$40 and is made with fresh beans, whose type, more acidic or sweeter, can be chosen by the customer.

Another attraction reminiscent of a hotel lobby is singer Francinne Misaka, who sings classics from Elvis Presley to Madonna. DJs, on the other hand, mix tracks that were successful in the late 20th century with house beats.

For singles who don’t want to spend their Valentine’s Day weekend alone, the Café Hotel’s program starts at 6 pm this Saturday (11) and will have three DJs: NASSI, João Lee and Gian Granito.