Le Chat Noir
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Location |
42 Avenue Carrillo, Diplomatic Quarter, Cárdenas, Federal Capital District |
| Type | Nightclub & Supper Club |
| Seating | Mixed (tables, lounge) |
| Owner | LCN Entertainment Group |
| Capacity | 450 |
| Renovated | 1718 AN |
Le Chat Noir is a prestigious nightclub and supper club located in the Diplomatic Quarter of Cárdenas, Nouvelle Alexandrie. Established in 1693 AN, it has become one of the most exclusive venues in the capital, known for its strict door policy, high-profile clientele, and role in New Alexandrian popular culture. The club is particularly famous for its Art Deco architecture, legendary "Midnight Supper" service, and its policy of absolute discretion regarding its influential patrons.
History
Le Chat Noir was established in 1693 AN by François de Montigny, a retired Federal Navy officer turned entrepreneur, who modeled it after the famous Gerdenian cabarets he had visited during his military service. The club opened during the early years of Cárdenas' transformation into the federal capital, quickly establishing itself as a gathering place for the city's growing diplomatic and political elite.
The venue reached its peak of influence during the 1710 ANs, when it became known as the unofficial "third chamber" of the Cortes Federales, due to the number of important political deals allegedly negotiated in its private dining rooms. The club survived the Spring Crisis of 1739 unscathed, despite being located just blocks from some of the heaviest fighting, and maintained its service throughout the crisis.
Venue
The club occupies a restored 1670 ANs mansion in the Diplomatic Quarter, featuring:
- The Main Room - Art Deco-styled dining room and dance floor
- The Pearl Room - Members-only champagne lounge
- Six private dining suites
- The Garden Terrace - Open-air cocktail space
- The Black Room - Ultra-exclusive private club within the club, reportedly requiring separate membership
Culture and influence
Le Chat Noir is known for its strict entry policies, which apply even to high-ranking government officials and celebrities. The club maintains a "no photography" rule, which has helped cement its reputation as a discrete venue for New Alexandrie's power elite. It has featured prominently in New Alexandrian popular culture, including as a setting in several novels and films. The club is particularly famous for its "Midnight Supper" service, a tradition where a fresh menu is served after midnight, often attracting politicians after late Cortes Federales sessions and diplomats following evening functions.
Notable incidents
- In 1717 AN, the club made headlines when a Federal Assembly debate reportedly continued in its dining room until dawn, resulting in the passage of the controversial Humanitarian Assistance and Protection Act of 1717 the following day.
- Television personality Isabella Valentina has frequently referenced the club in her show, most notably exposing Deputy Francisco Mendoza's late-night visit wearing what she claimed was a knockoff of one of her signature hats.
Security and privacy
The club employs its own security team and maintains close cooperation with the Federal Guards Service due to its high-profile clientele. Its legendary privacy policies include:
- No photography allowed inside
- No press access
- Private entrance for certain members
- Sophisticated signal-blocking technology to prevent electronic surveillance
- Strict non-disclosure agreements for all staff
In popular culture
Le Chat Noir has appeared in numerous works of New Alexandrian popular culture, including:
- As a key location in the political thriller novel "Midnight in Cárdenas" (1729 AN);
- Featured in the National Broadcasting Corporation drama series "Power Players";
- Mentioned frequently in Isabella Valentina's daytime talk show as a source of political gossip.
