About Bijou Nightclub
Bijou Nightclub is a high-end dance club in downtown Boston, opened in 2011, that quickly became known for its cutting-edge sound system and chic design. Located at 51 Stuart Street (chinatown/theater district border), Bijou occupies a sleek, modern space – in fact it’s styled after its namesake, the historic Boston Bijou Theatre (first U.S. playhouse lit entirely by electricity in 1882) (www.bizbash.com). The club features two main areas (the “Onyx” room and “Gold” room) with glowing neon lights, leather couches and dramatic black-and-gold décor (www.bizbash.com) (joynight.com). Bright LED accents and state-of-the-art laser lighting give it a feel more like an exclusive NYC/LA lounge than a typical rowdy Boston bar (joynight.com). With a combined capacity of roughly 600+ guests, Bijou draws large crowds on weekend nights, making it one of Boston’s largest dedicated nightclubs. Its modern architecture and multimedia design help it stand out in the city’s famously historic theater district.
In the local scene, Bijou matters as one of Boston’s premier electronic-dance venues. It regularly imports top DJs and producers from around the world (see below) and offers a polished “bottle service” experience not common in nearby sports bars. The club’s focus on house, techno and progressive dance music has raised Boston’s profile on national nightclub maps. Owner George Aboujaoude and his partners have actively marketed Bijou as an upscale alternative to Boston’s bar-heavy nightlife. (That said, Bijou has also drawn scrutiny: city reports note Licensing Board hearings in 2015 and 2017 about crowd control and noise violations (www.universalhub.com) (www.universalhub.com).) Overall, though, Bijou’s slick interior and high-powered system make it a unique late-night destination in New England, blending Boston’s theater-district heritage with modern club culture.
Events and Programming
Bijou is best known for electronic music events. Most weekends feature dance nights with top house, techno and progressive DJs, often running late into the night. The club has a strong focus on international trance and house acts – world-renowned names like Nic Fanciulli, Patrick Topping, Spencer Brown, Monolink and Marcel Dettmann have headlined there (www.bijouboston.com). (For example, listings from late 2021 through 2022 include Marsh, Alec Monopoly, Innellea and Themba performing sold-out sets (www.bijouboston.com) (www.bijouboston.com).) Bijou often organizes branded nights like “Bijou Saturdays” or “Bijou on Sunday,” typically with resident DJs (e.g. DJ Sisko or Vinyl Disciples) providing consistent parties on weekends (www.bijouboston.com). The club even hosted special events such as a New Year’s Eve countdown party (in Dec 2021 with DJ Dirty Dek) and a New Year’s Day “hangover brunch” (www.bijouboston.com) (www.bijouboston.com). Beyond its own bookings, Bijou occasionally serves as an afterparty spot for citywide festivals (for example, an Arcángel afterparty drew Latin music crowds in 2023 (www.bijouboston.com)). In short, if you’re looking for busy dance nights in Boston, Bijou runs almost weekly events featuring trending DJs – from underground local acts to international headliners – with tickets usually released a few months in advance.
Typical events last from about 10 PM to 2 AM, with doors often opening around 9–10 PM (especially on big nights). Recurring weekly programs include techno or house nights most weekends. The audience is party-heavy: DJ sets with high-energy beats, fog machines and strobe lights are the norm. Cover charges and admission vary by lineup; for example a performance by the group WhoMadeWho listed general admission tickets around $10–$30 (ra.co). Smaller local DJs or Afternoon sets on Sunday brunch might even be free or low-cost. Bijou also offers multi-night club passes or guestlist options on occasion, but advance online ticketing is usually the safest bet for popular DJ acts. In general, prospective visitors should expect that weekend dance events at Bijou draw a sold-out crowd of electronic music fans.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Bijou events are sold through the club’s official channels (website, listings, or authorized vendors). The best strategy is to buy online ahead of time for any special guest or holiday party. Shows often sell out weeks in advance, so planning early can save from last-minute hassles. Prices generally range from about $10 up to $50 depending on the act and whether it’s a prime night (big DJs and holiday parties cost more) (ra.co) (nl.ra.co). Standard general-admission tickets give you entry; VIP or bottle-service tickets (see below) cost more. If tickets aren’t sold out, limited door sales might be available at the venue on the night of the show – but expect higher “rush” prices at the door, especially after the event starts. A “member or guest list” registration is often provided by promoters for free or reduced admission, but otherwise all ticket sales should be through these official sources to avoid scams. Remember that later-call or big-name international DJ nights may have long waits or early sell-outs, so grabbing tickets as soon as they’re announced is wise.
Box office services are minimal; Bijou does not have a public ticket window or box office for walk-ups beyond the club entrance. Instead, tickets are distributed electronically, and a QR code or printout is scanned at entry. There are usually no refunds, so check the date/time carefully when booking. Occasionally the club will offer subscription-style multi-show passes or special VIP packages with table service, but those are arranged directly through event promoters. As a rule of thumb: purchase tickets through the official Bijou site or major local outlets, not via third-party marketplaces.
Seating and Layout
Bijou’s interior is divided into two main lounges. The Onyx Lounge (the main floor) houses the large dance floor, DJ booth and primary bars. Here you’ll find pulsating lights, three bars lining the perimeter, and plenty of standing room around the crowd (joynight.com). There are roughly 19 tables scattered around this floor for VIP guests or groups, each with rich leather couches and a view of the DJs (joynight.com) (joybeat.com). A second level (often called the Gold Lounge) sits above or behind Onyx; it is more of an upscale chill-out area with polished tables and its own bar (joybeat.com). The Gold room is usually quieter, great for conversations or winding down. Overall, most of the club is general-admission (standing) except for those reserved tables. There is also a small private VIP section (usually sectioned off near the DJ platform) for bottle-service patrons, giving a bird’s-eye view of the dance floor.
Best viewing spots depend on your preference: front and center by the DJ will maximize the audio/visual experience (powerful JBL sound, dynamic lights) but the crowd is denser there. If you prefer a bit of space, the side lounges or raised areas let you see the party while having somewhere to sit. Note that the Onyx floor is entirely indoors – there’s no outdoor patio attached. Also, avoid standing directly next to the giant speaker stacks if you can’t handle very loud bass (the JBL Dance5 and ASB subs deliver club-level volume (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com)). Conversely, spots near the corner couches or along the edges give a balanced view with slightly lower decibel levels. The club layout is fairly open, so most tables anywhere have a view of the action. Just be aware that once a show starts, the main dance floor fills up quickly, so early arrival will get you better positions.
Getting There and Parking
Bijou Nightclub is located at 51 Stuart Street in Boston’s theater district (near Chinatown). The simplest transit route is via the MBTA Orange Line. Take the train to Chinatown station (the red brick station at Washington Street and Boylston). From there it’s just a short 2–3 block walk south along Washington Street, turning onto Stuart to reach 51 Stuart St. This walk usually takes under 5 minutes. Alternatively, the Green Line’s Boylston or the Red Line’s Downtown Crossing station are a bit farther east (about 5–8 minutes on foot). A number of buses also run nearby (for example, the 1, 10 and 39 buses on Tremont into Downtown Crossing). Rideshare or taxi drop-offs can use the curb lane on Stuart Street right in front of the club – valet parking is not available, but cars can pull over briefly for passenger drop-off at the main entrance.
Driving and parking in the theater district can be challenging. Street parking meters line nearby streets (e.g. Stuart, Tremont, or Kneeland), but rates are steep (often around $3–$4 per hour) and time limits are enforced. There are several parking garages within a block or two: for example, the Theatre District Garage (45 Stuart St) and the Ink Block Garage (75 Traveler St) are close by. These lots typically charge on the order of $25–$40 for an evening. (Parkopedia lists certain garages around 45 Stuart at roughly $7 for 2 hours (en.parkopedia.com).) As a general tip, if you drive plan to park by early evening. Many clubgoers prefer public transit or rideshare to avoid parking hassles, especially since MBTA trains run until about 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive at Bijou, security and check-in are tight. All guests must be on the guest list or hold valid tickets, and a government-issued photo ID is required at the door (Boston law mandates strict 21+ enforcement). Security staff will verify your name and ID before admitting you. Bags and coats may be searched. The crowd is typically dressed upscale – men should avoid sneakers or jerseys, and women in casual club attire will be fine; in short, think “great bar/lounge” style. Once inside, you pass through a lobby leading down to the main club floors. The on-duty bouncers keep a close eye out for safety, particularly after past incidents. (Note: Boston’s Licensing Board has even encouraged venues like Bijou to require online reservation of assigned tables to pre-screen guests (www.universalhub.com).)
Inside, expect a high-energy atmosphere. The nightclub is dark except for sweeping beams from intelligent moving lights and lasers. Three large bars on the Oshx Lounge floor serve beer, cocktails and spirits – drink prices are above average (patrons often comment on pricey cocktails up to $15 or more). Outside beverages and large coolers are prohibited. A small merchandise counter may appear during special DJ events where you can buy T-shirts or mixtapes. The DJ booth is prominent on the main dance floor, with the booster JBL speakers flanking the stage (see Sound System below). There are no windows; it’s all enclosed so weather won’t affect you, and you won’t step in or out to smoke unless you exit the club. Restrooms are located on both levels (look for illuminated male/female symbols); they are standard nightclub style (crowded at peak times). It’s wise to set a meeting spot with friends in advance since cell signals can be spotty inside. Free Wi-Fi is not provided.
If you get cold or wet outside, note that coats can be left in the front lobby area (a coat check service is usually available for a small fee, as is common at Boston clubs). Photography and videography are discouraged during shows – smartphone photos are generally tolerated, but professional cameras with detachable lenses are typically not allowed without management permission. The club fills quickly after doors open, so latecomers may find it hard to re-enter if they step out to smoke or run an errand – plan to stay put or expect to pay again. In short, Bijou runs much like any modern nightclub: ID checks and security up front, polished VIP tables for bottle service, multiple bars, and a nonstop dance floor under strobe and laser lights.
Nearby Amenities
Theater District/Chinatown offers plenty of options for pre- or post-club dining and drinking. If you arrive early, you might grab dinner at a nearby restaurant (Chinatown’s Andrew Square or Granary offers cheap Asian eats; down Stuart Kimche’s Modern Kitchen for cocktails; or the Fisherman’s Market on Kneeland St.$^{*}$). For a drink before the show, try a craft cocktail bar like Yvonne’s (across Stuart) or Colleen’s (on Tremont). Late-night eats are scarce inside the club, but neighbors include Sabur (late sushi) and Kouzu (ramen) for very late bites. If you need to stay overnight, hotels in walking distance include the Lenox Hotel or Mandarin Oriental (a few blocks north on Boylston St) and some Chinatown inns to the south. The nearest MBTA bus routes and subway make it easy to connect home after closing. On weekend nights the MBTA Orange Line runs until 2 AM, and T service resumes around 5 AM, so plan accordingly – some patrons rely on ride-shares after midnight. In any case, arriving early (before 11 PM) is often recommended to avoid lines and settle in. As a Boston venue, Bijou has no weather contingency (it’s fully indoor during rain or snow), so bad weather only impacts your travel to/from the club.
What Makes This Venue Special
Bijou’s unique character comes from blending high-tech club production with Boston’s historic Theater District vibe. Its owners intentionally created an immersive experience: a professional DJ setup with custom LED rigging, swanky lounge areas and an on-site kitchen for light snacks. The club’s JBL sound system is world-class – in 2011 audio engineers raved that the combination of JBL Dance5 speakers and multiple subwoofers gave “nightclub levels” of clear volume without distortion (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com) (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com). Visually, the black-and-gold bar and neon-illuminated panels give it a boutique feel unmatched by other local venues. Unlike Boston’s older bars, Bijou offers a true nightclub environment (e.g. bottle service tables and guest checklists), which was a first for the city upon opening (www.universalhub.com).
Some legendary nights have added to Bijou’s lore: world-famous DJs like Eric Prydz and Marcel Dettmann have held court here, making airport-style lineups and intense sets that fans still recall. Over the years Bijou has become a cultural hub for New England’s underground dance scene – people travel from all over New England to catch artists who otherwise only appear in New York or Miami. Locally, it’s embraced a “Boston meets Ibiza” identity. Even its controversies highlight its impact: noise complaints filed in 2025 over late-night volume underscore how Bijou’s booming parties push urban nightlife norms (www.axios.com). In short, the venue is special because it stands at the intersection of Boston history and global club culture – its design, programming and vibe are unlike any other spot in town.
Visitor Tips and Information
Bijou is a modern, upscale nightclub, so visitors should come prepared. Accessibility: Being built to code in 2011, the main (Onyx) floor has wheelchair access from the street level. However, the Gold Lounge is on a separate level up a step or two from Onyx, so it may not be fully ramped; patrons with mobility needs should check when they arrive (staff will assist if needed). The club provides ADA-compliant restrooms. Entry: All patrons must be 21 or older; bring a valid ID (driver’s license or passport). The dress code is “smart casual”: suits/jackets, dress shoes or nice boots for men; cocktail attire for women. Sneakers or sportswear may get you turned away. Arrival: Busy nights can have a line at the entrance, so arrive early if you want a shorter wait. If you have a table reservation with friends, make sure they all arrive together – Bijou enforces name checks on guest lists (www.universalhub.com), and anyone not registered may be denied. Bag and Care: Expect a quick bag check. Small purses and clutch-like bags are fine; large backpacks are discouraged. The club provides a coat check service (it’s usually about $2–$5 per item), which is worth using if you want more room to dance.
Prohibited: No outside food or drink. Alcohol purchased inside must stay inside. Smoking is generally not allowed indoors (Boston law prohibits indoor smoking); those who wish to smoke must exit the venue. Phones/ Pics: Casual use of phones and social-media pics is okay, but flash photography is frowned upon and professional cameras need special okay. Re-entry: Once you leave the club (to smoke or go home), re-entry is not guaranteed; you may be required to buy another ticket or join the line again, so plan accordingly. Cover charges: On big DJ nights or holiday events, expect cover up to $30–$50 (depending on the performer) (ra.co). There are usually no hidden fees besides optional VIP upgrades. Inside: The sound is loud everywhere – if you’re sensitive, stand toward the sides or bring earplugs. Bars accept credit cards and cash. Tipping bartenders (15–20%) is customary. No dress-code or ID needed other than at the entrance.
Common Mistakes: Visitors often underestimate the cover and crowd size. Don’t assume “table reservation” means free drinks – as Boston’s bottle service rules dictate, your table just sets up a server to pour drinks by the glass at $10–$12 each (www.universalhub.com). (So be prepared for high drink costs.) Also, avoid the mistake of going with underage friends – Massachusetts is strict on under-21 admission, and fake IDs will get you banned. Lastly, because Bijou is a trendy spot, people often lose each other in the dance floor; pick a clear meeting point by the bar or lobby. Attending in small groups helps manage seating and keeps everyone safe in a very packed space.
Overall, Bijou Nightclub offers a uniquely upscale clubbing experience in Boston. By knowing the rules and layout – and arriving with the right attitude – you’ll get the most out of its world-class DJs and party atmosphere. Many locals say it’s “thе place to dance” in the city, combining Boston’s style with a global nightclub vibe. With strong DJs, powerful JBL sound (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com), and a strictly fun dress code, Bijou rewards visitors who treat it like the premier club it is.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bijou Nightclub’s address and neighborhood?
Bijou Nightclub is at 51 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116. This place sits right on the edge of Chinatown and the Theatre District, just stair’s steps from downtown. The nearest MBTA stop is Chinatown on the Orange Line (walking distance), and it’s a few blocks south of Downtown Crossing station as well. Expect a busy city streetscape – sidewalks and parking meters – and the club’s neon sign on Stuart Street marking the entrance. Parking is limited (lots or meters) in this area, but many patrons skip driving and use the T instead when possible.
How can I get to Bijou by public transit?
The easiest public transit route is the MBTA Orange Line – get off at Chinatown station (at Washington and Boylston Street). From there it’s a 3–5 minute walk south on Washington, then a right on Stuart Street. You can also use the Red Line or Green Line by getting off at Downtown Crossing and walking a few blocks. Several bus routes (like #1 and #39) also serve that area, and Logan Airport shuttles drop near the South Station train hub (about 15 minutes on foot). Overall, because of nearby T stops and bus routes, most people find public transit the most convenient way to reach Bijou, especially on busy weekends.
Is there parking available near Bijou Nightclub?
Street parking is very limited and metered around Stuart Street and nearby roads. If you drive, nearby parking garages include the Theatre District Garage at 45 Stuart St or lots on Washington Street. These charge around $20–$30 for an evening. Street meters typically run $2–$4 per hour (with nighttime surcharges after 8 PM). Given high demand, many guests choose rideshare or transit instead of hunting for parking. If you do park, arrive early and factor in walking a block or two from the garage. Also remember some meters enforce time limits, so double-check signs to avoid tickets.
What is the capacity and layout of Bijou Nightclub?
Bijou has two main levels. The main floor (Onyx Room) is about 4,500 sq. ft. with a roughly 345-person standing capacity (www.bizbash.com). It features a large open dance floor, three full-service bars, and about 19 lounge tables. The upstairs (Gold Room) adds another 4,000 sq. ft. (capacity ~280) with couches and bar seating (www.bizbash.com). So in total the club holds around 600–650 people when full. Both levels interconnect via stairs and are indoors. The layout emphasizes standing-room dance space – only the reserved tables and couch areas provide actual seating. For best viewing, people often stand near the DJ booth or on the sides; some chairs are available at table edges but no fixed seats. Overall it’s a sprawling, multi-room club layout optimized for nightlife events.
What types of music and events does Bijou host?
Bijou specializes in electronic dance music. Most events are high-energy dance nights featuring genres like house, techno, progressive and EDM. The club regularly books well-known DJs from around the world. In recent years, acts like Eric Prydz, Nic Fanciulli, Patrick Topping, and Marcel Dettmann have played there (www.bijouboston.com). There are also themed nights with local DJs, labeled “Bijou Saturdays” or “Bijou Sundays,” and occasional hip-hop or Latin-themed events (e.g. after-parties). Typical showtimes are around 10 PM–2 AM. Aside from weekly club nights, Bijou throws special events on holidays – you might find a big New Year’s Eve party or even a rare daytime brunch event after midnight (www.bijouboston.com) (www.bijouboston.com). In summary: if it’s a major dance or DJ event in Boston, Bijou is one of the primary venues hosting it.
How do I get tickets and what do they usually cost?
Tickets for Bijou shows are sold online through the club’s website or authorized ticket sellers (remember, no cold-call outlets). For most DJs, price ranges around $10–$40 depending on the artist and demand (ra.co) (nl.ra.co). Cheaper tickets are out early, expensive ones (VIP or late sales) cost more. Big headliners on prime nights can command $30–$50 per ticket. Always buy in advance if you can – popular events often sell out. Sometimes guest-list or promo codes are available for reduced entry, but if not, pay what the ticket line shows. At the door, a limited number of tickets may be on sale (often with a higher price than online). So the best tip: reserve early, check the club’s announcements for on-sale dates, and have your tickets or reservation ready on your phone when you arrive.
Is there a dress code for entry?
Yes. Bijou enforces a “club attire” dress code. Men should wear collared shirts, dress shoes or nice clean sneakers, and avoid athletic jerseys or hats. Women typically wear stylish party outfits – dresses, blouses and heels, or fashionable tops with slacks. In general, the presentation is expected to be upscale-casual or better. If you’re overdressed (e.g. a nice blazer), that’s fine; underdressed (like sports jerseys or open-toed flip-flops) may get you refused. When in doubt, lean toward a polished look. If someone in your group is too casual, you risk holding up everyone’s entry.
Is Bijou 21 and over only?
Yes. By Massachusetts law, Bijou is strictly 21+. Everyone will be asked for legal ID at the door. No exceptions are made, so younger people (even teens or college students) are not allowed under any circumstances. Make sure each person in your group carries a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport). The venue scans or copies IDs, and you will not be admitted without one. This age rule is strictly enforced every night (ra.co) (nl.ra.co).
Does Bijou offer VIP tables or bottle service?
Yes. Bijou has a VIP-style bottle service option for reserving tables. However, in Boston this doesn’t work the same as in Vegas – you don’t just buy a whole bottle up front. Instead, a table reservation comes with a dedicated server who pours drinks for you a la carte (keeping a tab) (www.universalhub.com). In practice, you or your host will reserve a table (usually for groups of 4–10), and the waiter will bring drinks (beer, cocktails, or champagne by the glass) while you party. Each drink costs around $10–$12. So, “bottle service” really means “personal cocktail service,” and it’s charged per drink. If you expect to spend heavily, you can request a nice corner table or couch area when booking. Note that this is optional; if you just want general admission, you can stand and buy individual drinks at the bar instead.
Are there food or snacks available inside Bijou?
No full meals are served at the club. Bijou’s focus is drinks – there are several full bars, but no restaurant kitchen. You can expect standard nightclub bar fare: bottled beer, wine, spirits, and mixed cocktails. Sometimes they offer bar snacks like popcorn or chips, but don’t count on a menu. Because the nightclub is loud and dim, most people eat before they arrive. (After-hours food can be a challenge too – few restaurants stay open past 1 AM nearby.) So plan to come with dinner in you or eat out before the show. It’s also common to hit Chinatown or Downtown Crossing for a bite after the club if you get hungry late at night.
Does Bijou Nightclub have coat check facilities?
Yes, there is a coat check located near the entrance lobby. During cooler months or if you come with a jacket, it’s recommended to check your coat there. The fee is modest (typically a few dollars per item). You are given a ticket stub to retrieve your coat when you leave. Lockers are not available, but the coat check area is monitored by staff. This service helps keep the dance floor clear and is useful for securing jackets, hats or other belongings you don’t want on the main floor.
Is Bijou Nightclub wheelchair-accessible?
The Onyx Lounge (first floor) is wheelchair-accessible, with a flat entrance from the street. The second-level “Gold” Lounge, however, is only reachable by stairs, so it may not be accessible. The restrooms are ADA-compliant on the ground level. If accessibility is a concern, you can email or call the club ahead of time. Staff are usually willing to assist entry and guide you to any available seating. Keep in mind that crowded dance areas may have limited maneuvering room. Overall, Bijou meets basic accessibility codes downstairs, but upper areas are not ramped.
What kind of sound and lighting does the club have?
Bijou boasts a very powerful, professional sound system. In fact, its audio rig (installed by Kordis Sound & Lighting) uses JBL pro speakers and subwoofers – e.g. four JBL Dance5 tops and eight ASB7128 subwoofers on the main floor (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com). Engineers praised it as having “horsepower like no other” without distortion (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com). So, expect crystal-clear but booming bass – it’s loud through the entire club. The lighting setup is equally sophisticated: multiple moving LED heads, strobes and RGB lasers sweep over the dance floor. Visual effects are choreographed to the music. In practice this means a dark room with colorful laser beams, fog, and flashing lights synced to the DJ – a full nightclub show. If you stand near the speakers or DJ booth, you’ll feel the sound and light fully. This top-tier A/V experience is one reason local fans rave about Bijou’s production quality.
Can I bring a camera or film inside Bijou?
Casual mobile phone photos are usually allowed (no flash!), and you’ll see people snapping selfies on the dance floor. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses and tripods are not permitted. In general, any large camera equipment will be turned away at the door unless you have prior permission from management (this is to protect performers and guests’ privacy). Video recording official DJ sets is also discouraged (the lights will destroy your shot anyway). If you want to take pictures, just keep it quick and use a phone. Do not expect to film whole performances – security may ask you to put the camera away if it’s blocking others.
Is smoking allowed inside or outside the club?
Boston law prohibits indoor smoking, and Bijou follows this rule strictly. There is no smoking allowed inside the club space (no balcony or smoking room). If you need to smoke, you must exit the building to the street. There is a sidewalk area right outside where patrons sometimes stand. The downside is that once you step out, re-entry can be difficult (the club may not readmit you easily after the show has started). In short, plan your smokes before or after the event – inside, it’s a smoke-free environment by law.
What happens if I leave and want to come back?
Bijou typically has a strict one-entry policy. Once you leave the club (e.g. to smoke, go home or switch locations), you usually cannot re-enter for free. The doormen will require a valid ticket or may charge another cover to let you back in if space allows. It’s safest to stay inside once you’re in. Most people go out only after they’re done for the night. If someone in your group leaves early, they may need to wait outside. This rule is common at many Boston clubs to avoid ratio issues after peak times. In short, plan to enter and stay – re-entry is generally not part of the policy at Bijou.
Are there seats or tables I can just sit at?
bijou is mostly standing-room party space. However, there are some lounge tables and booth areas. The 19 reservation tables on the Onyx floor have couches and high-top seating (for bottle-service guests) (joybeat.com). In the Gold Lounge above, you can sit at polished tables and lounge around. But these seats are generally kept for VIPs or early-arrival guests. On a busy night, finding a free chair will be tough. For most patrons, it’s acceptable to stand or dance; if you need a quick rest, look for a vacant barstool + talk with bouncers about short seating. Remember that the prime spots near bar tables often require buying at least a drink or two when off your feet.
Can I bring water or snacks into Bijou?
No. The club does not allow outside food or uncapped beverages inside. This includes bottled water, cans or any drinks not bought at the bar. Security will confiscate these at the door. (If you want non-alcoholic drinks, you must order from the bar as well.) Occasionally, the club offers a small complimentary water station at the lobby during busy events, but otherwise the rule is strict. The rationale is hygiene and licensing: they can’t serve outside supplies. So if you need hydration, purchase bottled water from the bar. Many guests tip the bartender for a cup of water during long DJ sets.
What is the sound level like, and should I be worried about the bass?
Bijou is LOUD. The JBL system delivers pounding bass and high volumes throughout the room (www.lightingandsoundamerica.com). Even though the acoustics are professionally tuned, ear protection is recommended if you’re sensitive. If you find the bass uncomfortable, stand away from the main speakers (they’re on either side of the DJ booth). The ceiling is relatively low, so low frequencies travel everywhere. Once the music starts, it will be felt in your chest. It’s part of the club’s draw, but do bring earplugs for your comfort if needed – especially if you spend hours on the floor.
Why is it called “Bijou” Nightclub?
The club’s name Bijou is an homage to the Boston Bijou Theatre, which was a famous 19th-century playhouse in this area. The historical Bijou Theatre opened in 1882 and was notable as the first American theatre lit entirely by electricity (www.bizbash.com). By adopting “Bijou,” the modern club nods to local history while branding itself as bright and cutting-edge (a “bijou” also means a small, jewel-like city venue). So the name ties this new nightclub to Boston’s cultural past in a fashionable way.