News Summary
The vibrant bar scene of Phoenix in the 1990s is remembered through the iconic Chez Nous cocktail lounge. As patrons reflect on their experiences, the influence of friendships and local culture shines. The narrative unfolds the personal connections that shaped memories of nightlife and the legacy of Chez Nous, which closed in 2001. A tribute to the past, this story underlines the importance of personal narratives in preserving community heritage, especially as the city continues to evolve.
Phoenix witnessed a vibrant bar scene in the 1990s, exemplified by the renowned cocktail lounge Chez Nous, which was located at the southeast corner of Seventh Avenue and Indian School. Established in 1964, Chez Nous became a popular destination during the decade before the trend of adopting the term “speakeasies” took hold. The memories and experiences surrounding Chez Nous are a testament to the friendships and community that thrive in social environments, as reflected in the recollections of former patrons.
The author of a recent column recalls the significance of their visits to Chez Nous, which were influenced substantially by their friendship with Dewey Webb. Dewey, a pop culture writer for a local publication, played a pivotal role in expanding the author’s horizons regarding Phoenix’s nightlife. The author’s journey through the 90s bar scene served not only as a nostalgic reflection but also as a reminder of how friendships can shape memories and experiences.
During high school, the author often engaged in less memorable social activities, which included dining at fast food spots like Teriyaki Express and shopping at Pic ’N Save. Their dissatisfaction with Phoenix, at that time, prompted a departure for college and professional opportunities outside the city. It was upon returning that the author connected with Dewey while working at a local publication, the Phoenix New Times.
Dewey was known for his exceptional reporting skills and a distinctive personal style; he was often seen wearing Hawaiian shirts paired with Converse sneakers. His investigative reporting was enhanced by a unique approach, as he would gather local story tips through visits to supermarkets and libraries, a method that predated today’s Internet-driven research. As the author spent time with Dewey, they were introduced to various local bars, including Durant’s and the 307 Lounge, allowing them to experience a different side of Phoenix.
Chez Nous, characterized as a chic yet welcoming dive bar, offered a distinctive ambiance that captivated visitors. The author reflects on the carefree moments spent within its walls, acknowledging that while there were instances of excessive drinking, these experiences contributed to their understanding of the city’s nighttime culture. The establishment, however, closed its doors in 2001, and the building was eventually demolished to make way for a British convenience store chain which later failed to thrive in the area.
Following the closure of the original Chez Nous, attempts were made to revive the name with a new bar on Grand Avenue, although this venture did not succeed either. The author notes that Dewey Webb passed away in 2017, having witnessed the evolution of downtown Phoenix into a more vibrant area. There is a sense of relief among friends and colleagues of Dewey that he did not experience the rise of automated technologies in headline writing that have begun to distort the nuances of journalism.
The author’s search for online information about Chez Nous reveals a stark contrast between their personal experiences and the limited collective memory available on the bar. A Google search yielded little historical context, emphasizing the fleeting nature of memories and the importance of personal narratives in preserving the legacy of iconic establishments like Chez Nous.
This exploration of Phoenix’s 90s bar scene reflects a broader theme of how places are defined not only by their physical presence but also by the relationships and stories that unfold within them. As the city continues to evolve, the memories of its past serve as a poignant reminder of the friendships and connections that foster a sense of community.
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Additional Resources
- Phoenix Magazine: Raising Phoenix – Old Haunts
- Phoenix New Times: Bygone Phoenix Restaurants We Miss the Most
- ABC15: Thundercat Lounge – The 80s & Early 90s Dance Club in Phoenix Closes
- AZ Central: Melrose District – Phoenix Gayborhood
- Wikipedia: Phoenix, Arizona
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
