Fans of Oceans Lounge at Swakopmund will be happy to know that the establishment opened its doors in Windhoek last Friday.
Situated at the corner of Voigt and Planck streets in the Southern Industrial Area, the lounge can accommodate about 150 people and features a private lounge, bar area, restaurant, DJ booth and relaxing outside area where diners can unwind from the stress of the day.
The lounge features a fresh look and feel, says co-owner Keith Smith.
“The kitchen is bigger. Before there was a small take-away. We decided on new black and white tiles, new furniture, air-conditioning and an expanded outside area.”
Smith and his wife Glynnis are the owners of the lounge, established after the venue at Swakopmund closed in 2016.
With a great passion for the industry, he said the main objective of re-opening was to give people a venue where they can relax, mingle and have fun. Every Friday and Saturday from 21h00, an in-house DJ entertains customers with a mix of both golden oldies and the latest hits.
Smith said currently DJ Lantis makes sure everyone has the time of their lives. In future, he plans to invite DJs from South Africa to showcase their talents.
“This will certainly bring a different vibe to the lounge and our industry. I have done research and discovered that many people are looking forward to this as they can’t all afford to travel to see these DJs.”
Oceans Lounge offers a wide range of beverages to cater to a variety of preferences.
“People have different tastes. Clients are limited to what is available. Over the years, I have learnt that it is important to make the customer happy and give them what they want.”
In terms of the food menu, there are several options available, from light meals, salads and fish to chicken, pork, grills, burgers, pasta, combos, sides and desserts.
There are three chefs. Two are responsible for the seafood and grills, while the other specialises in pasta and salads.
The prices are affordable, something Smith realised was important after visiting a range of local venues.
“My wife and I decided on standard prices. During the economic recession, we want people to still be able to go out and enjoy a meal and drinks without worrying too much about the high prices.”
Client Ana Joseph recently visited the lounge where she had a great time. She is looking forward to going again. “When I was there, the food was on point. I however waited a little long for the food to come. I am excited to know that after the success of the Tattoo Invasion held on 2 November, they have agreed to make it a monthly event.”
Smith’s love for the food industry started shortly after he completed high school. Although his initial plan was to au pair outside the country, a few months before he was scheduled to leave, he got an unexpected vision for his future. He started in the industry in 1999 as a waiter and steadily worked his way up to managing franchises such as Steers, Nando’s and KFC.
He attributes his success thus far to blocking out negativity from others.
“I always follow my gut feeling. If I want to do something, then I do it. There are many people who will make you feel worthless and that is why I don’t listen. I always follow my plan.”
Another thing Smith has learnt over the years is to always give your best and be positive.
“What you put in is what you will get out. Also, if you are not positive about what you do, your business won’t be successful. Now that I have opened the lounge, I am willing to work hard to make my new business a success. I want people to come and have a great time. We have friendly staff who will take good care of each and every client,” he said.
