By Constantinos Psillides
Opened only 90 days ago, Gouni bar in downtown Nicosia is not the copy and paste bar you got used to. Purposefully steering away from the minimal trend, Gouni is not a cocktail bar, a wine bar, or even a sport’s bar; Gouni is an adventure bar.
What makes it so? Well, for starters, its theme is Victorian Era circus freak shows. Bet you didn’t see that one coming. Even the entrance to the bar sets the customer up for a different experience. A red and white awning – circus style – with a large circus font sign welcoming the weary traveller, or in this case, the thirsty customer. Some amusement park toys are scattered here and there, just to enhance the atmosphere.
The inside of the bar is even more impressive. A long bar, with black wallpaper adorned with gold patterns is the main decorative element, along with a number of framed pictures of old-timey photos of individuals then referred to as “circus freaks”. A splash of colour is thrown in the mix just to stress the circus theme.
A decorative element that immediately draws attention is a big, multicoloured, wheel of fortune right in the middle of the bar. Feeling lucky with your friends? Why not give it a spin? You might end up buying the table a round, attempting to touch your belly button with your elbow or even a kiss! Just stay away from the purple colour lest you want to make the DJ really happy.
As far as drinks go, the bar offers all the usual along with a long list of cocktails. Cocktails that are lovingly prepared by the barmen, who take extra good care of the product they deliver. Hey, what better place to have a Zombie cocktail if not at a Victorian era circus themed bar? Price range is also good for a small bar, with beer priced at €3.
Another thing that sets Gouni bar from your run-of-the-mill bars is the fact that it does not offer only just a cheese and meat platter but a complete range of bar food. Hamburgers, cheeseburgers, sandwiches and other comfort food are available to those who want something to go with their drink.
The bar’s location is also a booster, since it is located right next to large parking lot, making parking in the densely populated streets of Nicosia a non-issue.
All and all Gouni is a great idea for an entertaining night out!
Gouni
Where: Christodoulou Sozou 2E, Nicosia
When: Wednesday till Friday 5pm to 2pm and Saturday from 8pm to 2pm. The owners are planning to have the bar open up on Sundays too.
