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CLUB SCENE:
TRAFFIK NIGHT CLUB

308 W. Genesee St.
Syracuse, NY 13203
(315) 479-8284

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by Maryann McKinley

Bungalow 8. Cain. Marquee. You love to be seen at the hottest clubs in Manhattan, but getting on a plane isn’t always practical. For the up-to-date party girl, there’s a new spot in downtown Syracuse where you can get all the flavor of a sophisticated club and still wake up in your own bed! Check out Traffik Night Club, newly open in the lower level of the famous triangle building at West Genesee and Franklin Streets.

Never one to let the night life pass me by, I dropped in to check out the scene on a recent Friday night. A mural of city life on that corner caught my eye as I entered the door at the tip of the triangle. Descending the red-carpeted stairs, I was greeted by the doorman, and felt like the crëme de la crëme as he motioned me inside. Once inside – I’m a fan of old Hollywood and Las Vegas, and the padded leather bar, the metro cocktail tables, the deep banquet waiting for Frank, Dino and Sammy to hold court – the atmosphere was dripping cool, sophisticated style.

There’s a wall of starlight on a black backdrop, changing color from frosty white to amber to red to blue, keeping the mood flowing as the colors shimmer and transform. Skylights look down from street level, offering a glimpse of the world going by. Ornate mirrors reflect the action, allowing you to check out the crowd even when you’re pretending not to. And the crowd? Hot, hot, hot. This is the place to see and be seen, especially if you have a private table.

The banquet tables at Traffik come in two flavors; deep, private conversation pits that can hold a party, or wide, close to the floor cocktail tables where you can’t be missed as you entertain your best pals.Funky, velvety fabric and harlequin pillows keep everything comfortable, and the private table service keeps the fun going all night long. You can buy a bottle for your table, which comes with all the mixers you need, and professional servers ready to take care of anything and everything as the night evolves. Celebrate your birthday at Traffik, and the table is complimentary. Here’s the best part - with a private table, you get VIP status – no waiting for anything, even the loo!

I sat with Josh, one of the owners, and Mick, the bar manager, to talk about the opening. They wanted to create a different kind of club in Syracuse, with all the flash and style of our biggest cities, but right here at home. From the electric dance floor, to the plush curtains, and the upscale seating areas, they’ve done it. The reserved VIP tables are fabulous, but the dance floor beckons with a mix of hip-hop, Latin, and techno tunes that keep the party going. To make sure the action stays alive, the best DJs in the city work their magic at Traffik. DJ Blaster gets you on your feet on Friday night; DJ Karma spins the set on Saturday, and DJ Dixon, formerly king of the airwaves at 105 "The Dog," lures you to the floor on Sunday.. Other nights, you’re the boss – request what you want!

When you’re ready to refresh, the stunning bartenders will make sure you have a cool beverage. Every night, there’s a special for the ladies, and it’s always a surprise. Wednesday is Flip Night for the first drink, and on Thursday, Absolut vodka concoctions are $2 from 10 pm to midnight. There’s a Friday and Saturday there’s a dress code in effect. No hats, no athletics, no beachwear – dress to impress! Sunday is Industry Night, when our favorite servers come out to get a little pampering. Even the billiards room is sizzling with shining silver walls. Take a break from the action, and perfect your bank shots in an atmosphere of cool sophistication.

Or take a peek behind the mysterious padded white walls – it’s the VIP room, where the hottest parties happen. You can throw your own exclusive bash - celebrate privately from 5 pm on, and enjoy all the club’s amenities. It’s the best way to get your office party, a birthday, or any function going, and keep it together all night long. Call Mick to plan your night!
Traffik Night Club is located at 308 West Genesee Street, kitty corner to Dinosaur Barbeque and just below the dancing feet at Arthur Murray. There’s plenty of parking on the street or in the pay lot just across the street. Stop in to see the hottest nightlife action Wednesday through Sunday nights, from 8:00 pm to closing. Call 315-479-8284 or Mick at 315-952-9473 to reserve your exclusive table, or plan a party your friends will never forget!

Don’t forget to vote in Table Hopping’s first annual Best of CNY poll. Enter by August 23 to be sure your favorites are recognized! Questions? Comments? Send email to mcmar01@yahoo.com - and have a great month!

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