While the Melrose District’s Thunderbird Lounge serves up good times and arcade games of the late ‘70s, a new sister concept will fast forward one decade into the future. Introducing Thundercat Lounge: a DJ-centered dance club reminiscent of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.
Thunderbird Concepts Partner Jeremiah Gratza tells What Now Phoenix that Thundercat Lounge is currently in development for a 2023 debut. The club is under construction at 747 W. Van Buren St. in downtown Phoenix, where the team has recently submitted an application for their liquor license.
Like its predecessor, Thundercat Lounge will be a highly visual affair. At this venue we can expect vibrant neon lights and cyberpunk aesthetics. “We’re going for a post-apocalyptic neo-Tokyo vibe like Blade Runner and Akira,” says Gratza, who adds that the basement will feature a Japanese-style karaoke bar.
To bring Thundercat Lounge to life, the team has partnered with Spectacle, the architecture and design firm responsible for work such as the Helios installation at Pemberton PHX and the “Tish” Dress Form on Roosevelt Row. Gratza says more details are forthcoming as they get closer to opening next year.
In the meantime, follow @thundercatloungephx on Instagram for future updates.
