We’ve long been fans of the laid-back vibe and musical offerings of PJ O’Reilly’s at Le Royal Méridien. We heard there was a new band gracing the stage, so we headed down to check it out.
The old-style Irish pub atmosphere of PJ’s is a happy balm for many a weary punter and we have fond memories of evenings spent devouring their delicious fish’n’chips and taking it all in.
PJ’s new band, Sweet Chilli Jam, a South African cover and tribute band, are quite the rockers, but we’re pretty sure we’ve seen them somewhere before. Aha! We knew we recognised them. This popular band used to be known as White Rabbit and have been regulars on the capital’s nightlife scene for years.
We pull up a barstool and settle in with a frosty beverage, watching the crowd get bigger and bigger as time marches on. Evenings at PJ’s are nothing short of legendary in Abu Dhabi and we can’t wait to see what the night has in store for us.
Sweet Chilli Jam certainly know how to work the crowd. At the beginning of every song we hear someone in the crowd yell “oh I love this song!”. And we love the set too. From 60s classics to R’n’B, rock and even the odd Metallica stomper this band has everyone covered.
The bar is heaving with people, some seated and chatting, others on the dancefloor making the most of the night’s musical madness. There’s not an empty chair or corner to be found, which is just what we’d expect of PJ’s – its popularity just seems to grow. With Sweet Chilli Jam in charge of the stage, we can’t see that changing any time soon.
Be sure to catch them performing live at PJ’s every night (except Saturday) from 10pm. Trust us, you certainly will be in for a treat!
Sarah Widdup
What? Sweet Chilli Jam at PJ O’Reilly’s
Where? Le Royal Méridien
We say: You can’t go wrong with a side of some Sweet Chili Jam!
Contact: 02 674 2020
