Whether you were lucky enough to travel to an exotic locale, or just spent the summer working hard for little to no pay, I’m sure you’re psyched to get your nose back in the books. What’s that? You’re not? Well perhaps a trip to Eugene’s newest venue, the Blue Luna Club, will make you feel better.
The club, which opened July 22 above Big City Gamin’ in downtown Eugene, offers exotic dishes that, while not a substitute for a Caribbean vacation, may be the closest thing Eugene has to offer. Some of the more unusual dishes featured at the Blue Luna are frog legs, curried goat and alligator.
The dishes are “based on my favorite cuisines,” said executive chef Lisa Sanchez, who bases her knowledge of the Caribbean palate on extensive travels to the region, as well as 35 years of experience as a chef. Caribbean food owes its unique variety to the mix of cultures, including French, Spanish and Dutch, that have historically occupied the region.
Prices are moderate to high, with dinner entrees running from $12 to $20. Minors are permitted before 9 p.m. for lunch or dinner. Many nights, the Blue Luna Club features live music with little to no cover charge. On a recent visit to the club, I sat outside while Eagle Park Slim and his band played the blues. The dance floor is small, but that didn’t stop one couple from having a good time. With outdoor seating available for 50 people on a balcony overlooking the street, it’s a great place to be when the weather is warm.
The bar specializes in rum drinks, offering more than 30 types of rum. After our server warned me about the strong black licorice flavor in the White Spider, I sampled a Jamaican Quaalude, but the pineapple juice was a little overwhelming for my taste.
The ambiance in the Blue Luna Club is fun and classy, with much attention to detail. Colorful paintings grace the walls and even the toilet in the ladies’ room. Specialty lights in the bar give the ceiling an underwater effect.
The Blue Luna Club is unlike anything else in Eugene. Sanchez compared it to the type of club one might encounter in Los Angeles or Miami. I recommend a visit for anyone with a flair for the exotic, but if you want the same old thing, you won’t find it here. The Blue Luna is located on the corner of 13th Avenue and Willamette Street.
The Blue Luna Club brings Caribbean flavor to Eugene
Daily Emerald
September 18, 2005
Blue Luna has view of 13th Avenue and Willamette Street from its large balcony and tropical decor inside.
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