Elevate Nightclub & Lounge signalled the lift-off to their operations with a soft opening on December 11 last year, creating quite the stir with anticipation about what would be the offerings from the latest addition to the dining and entertainment landscape in Montego Bay.

Thursday Food visited the Reading based hot-spot and took in the three-tier establishment that features an upper-level dining area, the middle floor that houses an indoor lounge/sports bar setting, and will upon completion feature a nightclub on the ground floor. There was more…

“Elevate started out with the concept of being an establishment that would be sophisticated and upscale in the Montego Bay dining and entertainment market. We felt we needed to add to the existing options especially when compared to the options in Kingston. We wanted to elevate and bring a new level in standards for customer service and overall experience, that’s how we decided on the name Elevate,” Darlene Rhoden, managing partner, Elevate Nightclub & Lounge, explained.

“Our menu options are fusions. We opted for some of the top picks in culinary experiences from Jamaica and fused it with some well-known North American options. It had to be a take on some of our local favourites and also something that our patrons can appreciate be they local or visiting from aboard. The menu features ackee spring rolls, jerk lamb and oxtail mini sliders on coco bread made in-house. We’re basically not a Jamaican restaurant but we definitely infused the culture of Jamaica in everything that we do. All this forms part of providing patrons with a different experience,” Rhoden added.

With only the finer finishes left to be done in time for the grand opening, the Rhodens are excited to fully open and deliver on the promise of a new experience especially in night life for the city.

“We have an excellent location, awesome view, great ambiance and this sets in motion our move to add weekly elements, including live bands, specials, guest DJs from Jamaica and overseas to add to the value. You will certainly get a South Beach vibe at Elevate. The upper level seats up to 240 and the second level just under 150 with inside and outside lounge areas, and of course the nightclub will be on the ground floor. Our grand opening will be next month on Friday, April 21, and we have some exciting performers lined up for that,” Sarge Rhoden, managing partner, Elevate Nightclub & Lounge, disclosed.

Thursday Food spoke with Aleisha Henry, executive administrative assistant, Milestone Operating Solutions, during a tour of the space.

“I like the food, as it isn’t bland; not as spicy as I would want it, but I understand that they’re catering not only for Jamaicans. I love the mimosas, ambiance, vibe, the people that work here and of course the view. That’s the best part for me,” Henry stated.

— Photos & text by Aceion Cunningham