I went to The Get Down the other day, and all I can say is, wow.
Owner Bryan Burkert and designer Scott Chmielewski did a fantastic job renovating the old Fletcher's space. Some of Chmielewsk's ideas blew me away.
In my review, which ran in today's paper, I called it the best new lounge in years ...
Upstairs, near where the stage used to be, he created this "woven wall" of overlapping recycled plastic strips. Underneath it, there are more than 4,000 LED lights, which glowed different colors and, together, displayed funky patterns. It was wild -- like standing in front of one of those Jumbotrons at a show, but not nearly as bright.
I loved the retro furniture, which used to be in the legendary New York club The Roxy. Burkert bought it from Roxy owner Gene DiNino, and had it reupholstered.
The reason I think The Get Down will succeed is because it looks like a high-end lounge, but it's not run like one. The drink prices are reasonable (beers are $4-$5, wine is $30 by the bottle, gin and tonics are $5.50) and the happy hour special is killer. Every day from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., drinks are half price. I got a Tanqueray and tonic for $3.25. Damn!
The Get Down's grand opening is tonight and tomorrow.All the info you need is at the club's website.
(Baltimore Sun photo by Gene Sweeney Jr.)