Entrepreneur Andrew Ellis is looking to bring fresh energy to Kingston 20, creating a neighbourhood destination where food, music and entertainment come together.
KINGSTON, Jamaica — “It is the last stop as you approach the highway and the first stop coming on,” Andrew Ellis told WMV.
Ellis is making a fresh $60 million investment in Jamaica’s entertainment and hospitality industry with the launch of 20 Rooftop Lounge, a new dining and nightlife destination in Kingston 20.
WMV was on location for the official launch, where Ellis shared the inspiration behind his latest venture, his connection to the community and his ambition to create a vibrant social space outside Kingston’s traditional nightlife hotspots.
The decision to establish the lounge in Kingston 20 was driven by both business opportunity and a personal connection to the area.
“I look around, I see where there’s not a lot of nightlife going on in this area. People want it. Naturally, you see an opportunity, you go for it,” he told WMV as music blasted in the nighttime quiet area.
The entrepreneur believes Kingston 20 has an underserved market for entertainment, with a sizeable residential population that could benefit from having more dining and social experiences closer to home.
Rather than simply opening another nightlife establishment, Ellis is positioning 20 Rooftop Lounge as a space that can become part of the community’s everyday lifestyle.
“You want to create new experiences, good food, good drinks,” he said, outlining the elements he believes are essential to building a successful hospitality destination.
Bringing nightlife closer to home
Kingston’s entertainment scene has traditionally been associated with established commercial and nightlife districts such as New Kingston. Ellis, however, sees potential in bringing that experience to communities where residents may otherwise travel considerable distances to enjoy an evening out.
His vision is to make 20 Rooftop Lounge a convenient destination for people seeking an after-work drink, a casual evening with friends or a night of entertainment without having to venture far from their neighbourhood.
“You don’t have to go too far. On your way home, just pull over and have a drink,” Ellis said.
Music and entertainment at the centre
While food and beverages will form part of the lounge’s offering, Ellis intends for entertainment to be a major attraction.
The venue is being developed around a varied calendar of activities designed to appeal to different audiences throughout the week.
“We’re going to have a lot of live music nights. We’re going to have a music series,” he revealed.
The programme will also include games nights, ladies’ nights and other themed entertainment experiences, giving patrons different reasons to visit beyond the traditional weekend party scene.
“Every day is something different here,” Ellis said.
He is also anticipating a lively calendar of parties and activities as the venue establishes itself in the local entertainment market.
“We’re going to have a lot of parties. We’re going to have a lot of fun. We’re going to have a lot of activities,” he added.
The opening of 20 Rooftop Lounge comes as entrepreneurs continue to explore opportunities to diversify Jamaica’s hospitality and entertainment offerings.
This year alone more than 5 new restaurants were opened in the Kingston and St. Andrew area, all offering a diffent experience.
