Revamped bars boost downtown night scene

After a nine-month-long hiatus, two downtown Sudbury nightclubs will be reopening under new management this weekend.

Doors to the Fuse Nightclub open tonight (Dec. 13) at 9 p.m., while The Grand Nightclub has its big reveal during the evening of Dec. 14.

The two Elgin Street venues are co-owned by Maher Khalil, Eric D'Amour and Dan Abdel-Nour.

Fuse, formerly known as Coyotes, has been decorated to have more of a “posh” vibe.

The bar owners have even renovated part of the bar to house the “Axs Lounge,” which can be rented out by parties of up to 18 people.

The lounge will feature bottle service — where patrons can mix their own drinks — and dedicated serving staff.

“It's a great-looking showpiece right above the dance floor,” D'Amour said.

Unlike Fuse, The Grand hasn't undergone major renovations, as the bar owners wanted to preserve the historic aspects of the 110-year-old venue. They do, however, have plans to bring in big-name entertainment acts to the nightclub.

Khalil, who also owns another downtown Sudbury bar — S.R.O. Nightclub and Lounge — said he's excited about the new business venture, although he's sure it will present its share of challenges.

“How can I not be excited?” he said. “I work where everyone plays.”

The revamped bars are “great for the downtown” and the local economy, D'Amour said. “I think people want to be downtown on the weekend,” he said. “It's where everything's happening with the nightlife.”

Abdel-Nour said it's been a “long journey” to ready the two nightclubs for their reopening.

“I can't believe that we're actually opening,” he said. “It's phenomenal. I'm really excited about the fact that the downtown has two more night venues that can open up to the public.”

The Grand Nightclub will be open Saturdays to those 19 and older, and Fuse Nightclub will be open Fridays to those 19 and older, and Saturdays over the age of 25.

To learn more about the bars, search The Grand Nightclub and Fuse Nightclub on Facebook.