nightlife

Forty years is a good run for a nightclub. Otto Zutz opened in 1985 in a former textile factory in Sant Gervasi, bringing a little New York industrial style to the neighborhood. The original layout spread the action across two floors and mezzanines, making use of the factory’s open spaces and iron beams. Cement, cast-iron pillars and vaulted brick ceilings gave designers Alicia Núñez, Guillem Bonet and Jordi Parcerisas plenty to work with. Their interior was shortlisted for the FAD awards.

The club expanded in 1992, as Barcelona prepared for the Olympics. The new third floor housed Los Altos, a private room that became a meeting point for the city’s celebrities. Otto Zutz also built a following for hip hop, R&B and funk, and those sounds still shape the program. The original idea was that the crowd made the atmosphere, with the factory providing the setting. It remains an appealing division of labor.

Reggaeton, house and hits round out the selection today, with the mix changing according to the party. There are three rooms, giving a group with divided musical loyalties some room to maneuver. Saturday’s La Casita Club puts reggaeton and hits in one room, with house and older reggaeton favorites in another. Check the current program on Instagram before picking a night.

The crowd is young, with locals, international students and visitors all in the mix. VIP tables and bottle service are available if the occasion calls for them; otherwise, the dance floor will do nicely. The door policy is summed up as cuida tu imagen (look your best). A little effort with the outfit is in order – then it’s over to the DJs.