Black Banana



The Black Banana was a nightclub in Philadelphia. It began as Le Banana Noir at 534 South 4th Street in 1970. It was owned by Garrick Melmeck and his lover Xavier Hussenet.

In the late 70s it moved to 3rd and Race Street and became a private club for members only. Cafe Zaza served food while the Black Banana was known as the most decadent place in town.

The club thrived through the 80s being on the cutting edge of fashion and music: styles came and went and the Black Banana rolled with the punches. Giving way to such legendary talent as Josh Wink, Robbie Tronco, singer/TV personality Richie Rosati, Stango along with local legends like Natasha and Coco, Nick London, Nick and Gigi Meoli and uber It-Girl Kim Kelly.

Garrick Melmeck was diagnosed with AIDS in 1991. Shortly after that the Black Banana suffered a devastating fire. The staff worked day and night demolishing and rebuilding the club. All the while, loyal patrons held vigils out on its sidewalks.

In 1995 the Black Banana played its last record and flashed its last strobe.

The building now houses Wexler Fine Arts Gallery.