Die-hard town-mishers are counting their blessings after a new club, Residency, has opened in the building that once housed the infamous Eleven Bar. Having opened its doors on Friday, Feb 16, the bar has fallen into the natural swing of town life, fuelled by sweat, stickiness, and the throng of those giddy enough to shell out on overpriced drinks and their twerk game.
Residency is owned and operated by Ian Lindsay, the current owner of Suburbia and Biggies Pizza located just across the road. Speaking to Critic Te Ārohi, Lindsay cited his decision to begin the venture as “a great opportunity to do something new for the town and for the influx of students [...] owning Suburbia across the road, I never liked to see the venue closed.”
Lindsay’s comments reference the closure of Eleven Bar, shut down after having its liquor license revoked by the courts. In addition to several abuses of this license, the bar was cited as being “crook as fuck” by staff who witnessed owners drinking at the establishment, as well as several instances of sexual abuse from patrons. Addressing this history, Residency looks to pull a 180 on the building’s reputation. Critic suggests a burning sage ritual. Lindsay hopes to give the new business a “bit of an upmarket feel and provide a safer environment.”
Mase, a duty manager at Residency, certainly agreed, contending that “the layout is way more approachable and friendly.” Additionally, he revealed that the venue has opened up a spot outside for smoking, meaning no one has to wait back in line after having a hoon. In terms of demographic, Lindsay said, “We play top 40 throwbacks, giving the place a really good vibe as people can sing along and dance to something a bit up-tempo.” DnB diehards lament, Residency will be the spot for all your 2000’s bangers, your place to go when you desperately need a fix of Taylor Swift’s ‘Love Story’.
Mention 2000’s bangers and students are frothing at the mouth. One student, Harry, told Critic, “I had more fun during one trip to Residency than I did any other time at Eleven Bar.” Students for Sensible Drug Policy have also given the place a green light, having requested that the Dunedin Licensing Committee urgently give Residency an alcohol license so it would be open in time for Flo and O.
Be prepared to find yourself wailing in the Residency bathroom in the coming weeks, having listened to too much Adele and other pop clangers that will leave you nostalgic for your year 10 camp. Bring some Critic stickers, while you’re at it