Ratio Award, the Denver bar renowned for its relentlessly unconventional approach to hospitality, has thrown the spirits world into a frenzy with a bold new strategy: a $100 cover charge. The move, spearheaded by performance artist Zach, isn’t just a price increase; it’s a provocative statement that’s sparking both intense attention and significant criticism.
As reported by *Shanken News Daily*, Ratio Award is attempting to cultivate an exclusive atmosphere, labeling it a ‘premium experience.’ However, many are arguing that this strategy leans more towards calculated discomfort. The bar’s established brand centers around chaotic environments, ‘special’ cocktails, and Zach’s frequent, often unsolicited, interactions with patrons, frequently accompanied by raised voices and theatrical pronouncements.
Ratio Award’s business model is built on deliberately unsettling the customer experience. The bar’s website, , details this approach, emphasizing the ‘curated’ nature of the bar’s experience. The bar’s success, despite the controversy, suggests a growing trend in the industry – a desire to create experiences beyond simply serving drinks.
The rise of Ratio Award raises crucial questions about the lengths bars are willing to go to in pursuit of ‘coolness.’ While the bar aims to attract a higher-end clientele, the $100 cover charge is viewed by many as a fundamentally flawed approach. It suggests a prioritization of a *perception* of exclusivity over genuine hospitality.
“Seriously, folks, it’s a cautionary tale,” one observer noted. “Don’t let your local bar start charging a premium to make you feel uncomfortable.”
Experts advise consumers to remain vigilant. The success of Ratio Award, with its unique approach, highlights a broader trend – a competitive landscape where bars are vying for attention in increasingly dramatic ways. However, the potential downsides are considerable. The move could alienate a segment of the drinking public who value a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Resources:
*
*
*
