Hybrid Lounge officially opened its doors with their grand opening on Tuesday, March 9 on the corner of Brady Street and Van Buren Street. Hybrid is the first bar of its kind to open this close to UW-Milwaukee since Mama Rue's.

The space will offer more than your typical hangout with an adjoining lounge and restaurant set to open this April. A cozy size and warm design help give Hybrid the feel it needs to meet the diverse needs of area patrons.

Some wonder why anyone would establish a gay bar on Brady Street, but owners Bill Lison and Nate Fried are confident in their choice.

"It just makes sense, it's about time for a gay bar on the East Side. The location makes it a great alternative destination for the gay community. It's where Milwaukee meets," said Lison. While in a noticeably obscure location, the opening of Hybrid Lounge attracted quite an audience.

Gay Milwaukeans and their allies came out in droves to support the expansion of their community into the East Side. Scores of people, including UWM students, could be seen showing their excitement while enjoying a change of scenery.

When asked why he came to Hybrid that night recent UWM Alum Bjorn Chinander exclaimed, "It's so close! I can actually breathe and the people are great...I'll be coming here a lot."

Chinander was referring to the fact that Hybrid Lounge is smoke-free. The owners didn't feel it would be right to allow smoking before the impending city-wide smoking ban would eventually put a stop to this activity this July. This choice gives them an initial leg-up in with the competition in the area; something they may need.

Hybrid Lounge faces stiff competition from several established watering holes in the area. Supporters of the lounge hope that its diverse offerings and pleasing looks will attract both gay and straight customers looking to relax close to home.

Hybrid Lounge will be open Monday thru Friday 4 p.m. to close, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to close with happy hour from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday thru Friday. With its pleasing, smoke-free atmosphere and proximity to campus, Hybrid Lounge is sure to be a hit with area residents.

by Jon Tingley, UWM Post