Jade Theater

Lounging

location > 701 C Street, downtown
phone > 619-814-5125
web site > jadetheater.com

AN UNASSUMING EXTERIOR could easily fool lounge-lovers into skipping over this tri-level, Shanghai-inspired restaurant and lounge. With 14,000 square feet of indoor space, Jade Theater features a basement-level “Buddha ultra-lounge,” a main-level lounge and an upstairs ideal for intimate dining and private parties.

VIBE: Designed to represent the current world and the afterworlds, each of Jade’s three levels radiates a unique vibe. Reflective of the present world and complementing its ethereal vibe with dark lighting and walls with a rock-like texture, the main level is the perfect place to sip an after-dinner cocktail. Ideal for people-watching, the upstairs level is private, allowing patrons a discreet dining experience while observing main-level loungers below. Orbs suspended from the upstairs ceiling float over the main-floor bar, suggesting a lift upward. Symbolic of the “underworld” and allusive of desire and sex appeal, the downstairs lounge has an opium-den vibe and is illuminated by dim red lighting.

DÉCOR: Jade’s Zen-inspired main level is illustrative of the yin-yang, light-dark design. The bar serves as its focal point; suspended votives hang overhead. Upstairs, there’s an all-white motif and a plethora of private seating. Transparent screens give the illusion of live bamboo stalks, while an impressive wine display serves as the lone table’s backdrop. The basement “Buddha ultra-lounge” boasts a large Buddha statue, partially enclosed VIP seating and ample space.

EATS & DRINKS: Executive chef James Montejano (applauded for his work at Pamplemousse Grille and Café Japengo) brings Jade his four-course, progressive Asian menu and unique wine and sake pairings. Try complementing one of the specialty cocktails——like the Zenlightenment, made of Effen vodka and cucumber-infused nectar——with small bites, such as the spicy edamame. Montejano’s Asian fare includes such offerings as Korean beef ribs and clay-pot clams steamed in sake, with black-bean sauce and noodles. The “Mercury of the Chef” table features a 20-inch LCD screen, allowing diners a behind-the-scenes peek at the kitchen’s doings. Four dining rooms (two with 50-inch plasma screens) allow for hip private dining for up to 200.

MISCELLANEOUS: Cocktail waitresses don sexy Asian-inspired dresses (some black, some white), giving Jade an authentic edge. Stop in at the Happy Hour, Monday-Friday from 4:30 to 7 p.m., for great discounts on all lounge food, draft beer and cocktails.

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