Those frustrated with the club scene but not quite ready to stay home have a new space to check out: Candyland. Owner Michael Ullman (Bloke & 4th, EFS) is looking to appeal to the 30-something who’s over feeling like an oddity in clubland, but wishes not to hang in hotel lobbies. Inspired by imaginative venues like N.Y.C.'s The Box, Candyland is King West’s latest and most creative entertainment destination.
Ullman gave his new dinner theatre lounge a distinctive gothic-burlesque vibe.
Curved emerald banquettes bookend a red-curtained stage. Look up, and you’ll note that the ceiling isn’t all there; those who prefer a bird’s eye view can take a seat upstairs and peer down. Once the night gets going at 10 p.m., a burlesque-ready emcee appears and a slew of acts ensue. Wait for a contortionist to make way for Olympic-medalist ring dancers followed by a Marilyn impersonator. Later, muscly performers will launch from a rope suspended from the second storey, working their way up and down its lengths; those seated on the couches facing the stage are destined to be surprised.
Food-wise, Frank from Frank's Kitchen has developed a gawk-friendly sharing menu — after all, one must be able to stop mid-bite to take in the sights. Kettle chips are crafted from parsnip, beet and sweet potato and spiced with malt vinegar and rosemary ($6). Tuck into tamari almonds ($5) or crispy artichokes ready to dip in hot sauce ($8). Heartier picks include the Kobe beef short rib served with cauliflower fritters or the classic beef tartare ($18). While there is no candy to be found on the menu, we’re sure if patrons were to bring in a bag of Squish-y goods, no one would be too miffed.
Original cocktails continue the theme onto the cocktail list.
Tipples include the Devil’s Tattoo (vanilla-infused Bulleit bourbon paired with Campari and Cynar, $18) and Diamond Knot (gin and vermouth meet Cointreau plus orange bitters, $18). And for those who plan on making a real night of it, bottle service is indeed available.
Candyland, 619 King St. W.
