“Alas, we’re at the end of the road for Route 196.”
For some, Route 196 is the place where they met most of their friends, where they celebrate music or even wallow in the corner while holding their beers– just going senti mode— but now, it’s all gone.
Today, Route 196 trended on Twitter when the news broke out about their closure after 15 years of sharing their space for OPM peeps.
Alas, we’re at the end of the road for Route 196. pic.twitter.com/2kDXW0FWYl
— Route 196 (@route196rocks) August 23, 2020
“We may be walking towards a different direction for now, but we wanted to make sure you had something to always remind you of our crazy ride together, the things we learned, the noise we made, the rules we broke, and the friends we picked up along the way,” they stated.
In case you didn’t know yet, this music bar has been called a ‘home’ by many up-and-coming Filipino indie bands and artists. Before their music staled different known platforms, they mostly sang at the top of their lungs first at Route 196.
Among artists who have performed in the bar are She’s Only Sixteen, Oh Flamingo, Ebe Dancel, Sandwich, IV of Spades, and many more. Saddened by the closure, a lot of Filipino artists took to social media to relay their memories of hanging out or performing at Route 196.
Most of the nights, Route would be packed with many patrons jumping and dancing together with the rhythm of live music. Add to the experience the good food being served and the midnight chats that remained on its walls.
In line with their farewell, Route released limited-edition T-shirts designed by Rob Chan as souvenirs for their Katipunan regulars.
We may be walking towards a different direction for now, but we wanted to make sure you had something to always remind you of our crazy ride together, the things we learned, the noise we made, the rules we broke, and the friends we picked up along the way. pic.twitter.com/Pp490z5JzG
— Route 196 (@route196rocks) August 23, 2020
You can purchase the shirt via Manila Takeout, a design initiative that aims to support the restaurant industry. All proceeds from the shirts will be donated to their partnering restaurants and their respective service teams.
What is your most unforgettable experience at Route 196?
Let us know your thoughts or opinions by sharing them through the comments below! Or just simply hit us up on our Facebook or Twitter account, @udouph.