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| - Welp. Its unavoidable to compare Chez Nous on Grand with Char's over on 7th Ave, so I will do a dual-analysis of these spots.
THE ATMOSPHERE:
Char's is just a friendlier place. Their doorman doesn't DEMAND his $5 like a put-out paperboy. Chez's does. Its kind of annoying and unsettling as your introduction to a night of hi-falutin drinking and lo-falutin boogieing. Char's clientle seems to be in higher spirits and more polite as well. Chez's are chilly. Burrr. If you stand in front of their seat to order a drink from the bar (because they went to go dance or something) they will let you know that you may NOT continue to stand there, even for a second. The bartenders at both places are sweet and quick about their service.
THE DRINKS:
Weak at both places, but IIRC, they are cheaper at Chez. The no-card policy at Chez is a nuisance, so Char's is preferable here. They both serve the typical booze and beer, so nothing really stands out other than the cost (Chez cheaper) and the convenience (Char's takes card).
THE MUSIC:
They are both MANIACALLY cool spots for some soul-funk-blues and great dance floors to boot. This is the main reason to but up with any inconveniences, small or large, at either place.
THE SET-UP:
Just packed at both places. If you want to come at a decent hour, you won't get a seat. So, just forget about it. Both buildings are pretty neat setups. Chez is more of a railroad-style-room, and Chars more of a dance-hall set up. Both have smoking patios, though Char's is small and quaint with tables and a busy atmosphere, while Chez's is (assuming) not complete and barren but large.
OVERALL:
Char's Has the Blues AND the lead over Chez due to the fact that I can't seem to get over the vibe that I don't belong to "The Secret Club" ...shhhhh ... over at Chez. But whatever, the drinks, music, and dancing will get me going at either place.
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