Downtown Vancouver strip club reopens after year and a half closure

Photo: Danny Filippone

It's been a fixture in downtown Vancouver for nearly 75 years.

The Penthouse, one of the city's best-known strip clubs, has reopened its doors to the public after a year and a half.

The nightclub welcomed back patrons on Sep. 16, following a months-long COVID-induced closure.

During the hiatus, the Penthouse kept passersby entertained with its world-famous cheeky marquee. The satirical signage is frequently changed by a trio of bartenders known as The Marquee Boys.

"We were changing the sign, during the pandemic, once every two weeks and at some points, we were getting millions of hits per sign," says owner Danny Filippone.

The one benefit of the club's extended closure was the ability to complete interior renovations, most of which preserve the destination's rich local history.

Many may balk at the idea of entering a strip club during a pandemic, but business appears to be booming.

"By 10:30 on a Thursday we had a lineup down the block, and Friday and Saturday were no different," remarks Filippone.

As is the case with similar businesses, vaccine cards are required upon entry and masks while moving around. Private dances are available, but the dancer and customer both need to be masked and double-vaccinated.

Despite the club currently operating slightly above half capacity, Filippone is thrilled his iconic establishment remains firmly anchored in Vancouver's entertainment scene.

"Very excited to be back, it's been a long 18 months."