Gay Mixer at El Rey in Versalles

I have to get to Versalles more often. This neighborhood is up and coming, as they say, with trendy restos and bars on every street. Viena is no exception, and El Rey held court last night for Out & About Puerto Vallarta‘s premiere magazine, which hosted a Gay Mixer from 6 to 9 pm. O & A’s staff was out in force, with Oscar shooting photos of folks sporting crowns and sitting in the big black throne right at the entryway to the lounge.

Gerwin Rutten mingled in a number of languages, and owner, editor, and publisher Jerry Jones oversaw and ensured all went well.

A DJ kept the tunes rolling at the back of the restaurant/bar in a patio full of happy drinkers. A table laden with meat and cheese smelled divinely of smokey summer barbeque for which El Rey is becoming famous around town.

The interior of the lounge is dark, with an inviting divan-dominated corner by the stairs going up to the kitchen where it’s possible to escape the music and hubbub and enjoy a conversation – which I did! An old friend from Vancouver Island, who I have known for years, walked by El Rey and decided to pop in; Kay Nash lives only a few blocks away. What a surprise to see her come in as I was heading out! We sat in that delicious corner for a good half an hour, catching up on our respective lives and making plans to get together soon. Look for Kay’s writings and brilliant photographs coming soon to Vallarta Mirror!

Owners Laurence and Reanna are a warm and friendly couple offering not just great food but live entertainment, food specials like slow-roasted brisket and tacos, cocktail-making classes, Ladies’ Nights, and much more spread between their two restaurants – El Rey and The Office, which is located close by on Francia. Be sure to drop by both locations on May 5th, to celebrate El Rey’s first and The Office’s second anniversaries!

A great big grand opening is happening this weekend; come on back next week for major coverage and a load of photographs.