Lynda Kaye, Verboten (Locations, dates and price varies; visit verbotennewyork.com for details)
How she got her start on the door: “I grew up in New York City. I started going out as a teenager, met a ton of people in nightlife and began working as a cashier. Shortly thereafter, The Dog & Pony show began, and I was their original door girl, which led to working at Verboten.”
The worst thing about the job: “Being the sober one at the end of a party ending at 8am is just never how I envisioned my nightlife persona.”
The best thing about the job: “I love all the different kinds of people who come to Verboten. I get to meet so many unique personalities, while hanging out with my Verboten coworkers who have become my family.”
The most memorable thing she’s seen working the door: “A guy I had been out on one date with showed up at my party to have a serious discussion about ‘us’. I should mention, he’s not someone who typically goes to these types of events. He clearly went on the Verboten website, purchased a ticket and showed up to confront me. How anyone would think this was a good time to talk is beyond me. Somehow I doubt this type of thing happens to accountants or school teachers while they’re at work. Needless to say, there was no second date.”
Best (or worst) lines she’s heard: “Where do I start? So many come to mind. My favorite one is when people approach me and say ‘Lynda says I’m VIP,’ when I have no clue who they are.”
Tips on etiquette: “Don’t touch me. Don’t touch my rope. It is there for a reason. Finally, don’t be entitled. Be polite and respectful. That will get you in much faster then being a jerk.”
Where she goes to party: “When I’m feeling fierce, I go to Provocateur [18 Ninth Ave between Little W 12th and 13th Sts; 212-929-9036, provocateurny.com]. When I want to dance, I go to Fixed [Locations and dates vary, visit fixednyc.com for details].”
Ever since the days of Studio 54, the doorpeople of New York nightclubs have been one of the scene’s defining features. They’re much loathed—and if they quickly guide you past the velvet ropes, much loved—but they’re (nearly) normal people, just like you and me. Time Out gets the dirt and party recommendations from some of the current crop of gatekeeping dignitaries.
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