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W ith clubs the world over touted — often fallaciously —as exclusive venues for

members only, it can be hard for even the most discerning individual to find a nightspot that truly does focus on the needs of the select few allowed through its doors. A global citizen such as yourself, dear Rake reader, shouldn’t waste even a moment of nightlight at a watering hole that’s all glitz without any glamour; where the service may be impeccable, but remains impersonal.

Which leads us to Jalouse. Founded in 2008 in the heart of Mayfair, this private venue is among the most opulent of London nightlife options.

But it’s not all about the gorgeous lighting from handcrafted crystal orbs generously draped across the ceiling or onyx fittings bathed in hues of indigo and amber that pulsate to the heartbeat of the club. It’s not even about the numerous celebrities and fashion mavens that choose to carouse at Jalouse, or the frequent performances from the likes of Pete Doherty and Bloc Party. Pleasant though these details may be, Jalouse’s key appeal lies in the personal touch

that the club’s co-owner Freddie Achom believes makes his members feel there’s no better place to be.

“The moment a member arrives at the door, the staff will recognise him instantly. The staff are polite, you get eye contact and you are recognised. When we attend to you, you get undivided attention, almost like you’re the only person in the club. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable, let you know that if you need anything, we’re always only a few feet away.”

Though this oft-forgotten comfort of earnest cordiality from club staff is essential to maintaining a solid base of patrons, Achom looks to also give his clients a comprehensive entertainment experience. “Because our customers fly in and out of the country, often they’ll ask, ‘What’s happening this week?’ And I’ll just say, ‘Look, I’ll get my guy to call you tomorrow, let you know a good restaurant to have dinner or a nice new event that’s happening.’ They love all that!” A little extra effort coupled with good relationships with establishments like Nobu, Hakkasan, Cipriani, Scott’s and The Ivy mean that Jalouse’s

members (a network of individuals based in various neighbouring regions like Switzerland, Monaco, France, Italy, and of course London itself) will experience more than just a great night at a club when Jalouse is their designated driver.

If that wasn’t enough for these privileged jet-setters, should they find themselves out of London Town, they can rest assured knowing they’ll always be on the list for parties that Jalouse organises in hotspots such as Cannes, Mykonos, St. Tropez and Ibiza. Hobnobbing at parties thrown by Roman Abramovich, Russell Simmons or Simon Cowell more their thing? (Yes, surprisingly there are people who’d want to be in the same room as Idol judge No. 4.) Achom and his team will facilitate entrée. “Our customers actually call us from out of London in order to get to a party on the other side of the world.”

A Jalouse membership means more than just skipping the queue; it’s a golden ticket to the global party elite.

www.jalouse.co.uk

THe PuBLIC eNvYJalouse in London lives up to its name and co-owner Freddie Achom knows exactly why.

by sean macleod