Black Banana
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Black Banana was a nightclub in Philadelphia. It began as Le Banana Noir at 534 South 4th Street in 1970. It was owned by Garrick Melmeck and his lover Xavier Hussenet.
In the late 70s it moved to 3rd and Race Street and became a private club for members only ("The Crusaders Community Club"). Cafe Zaza served food while the Black Banana was known as the most decadent after-hours nightclub in town, with glass-walled unisex bathrooms featuring two-way mirrors, a private and exclusive party space on the third floor, and various nooks and crannies where mischievous customers could have their fun.
The club thrived through the 80s being on the cutting edge of fashion and music: styles came and went and the Black Banana's very diverse staff and sophisticated clientele rolled with the punches. This period was marked by such legendary talent as Josh Wink, Robbie Tronco, King Britt, Richie Rosati, Willyum, Stango, local legends like Natasha and Coco, Dozia, Nick London, Nick and Gigi Meoli, Toni Thomas, and uber Philly It-Girl, Kim Kelly.
Founder, Garrick Melmeck passed away in 1991, shortly after that the Black Banana suffered a devastating fire. The staff worked day and night demolishing and rebuilding the club. All the while, loyal patrons held vigils out on its sidewalks.
Kirk Beckman ultimately assumed ownership and management of the club until its demise in 1998, as the Black Banana played its last record and flashed its last strobe.
The building now houses Wexler Fine Arts Gallery.
