Why let Las Vegas have all the fun? Several years ago, Bella Vita in Geist borrowed the “Rehab” theme from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, and the party has been “rehabbing” patrons on summer Sundays ever since. The idea behind Rehab is for weekend party-goers to recover after a wild Saturday night with, of course, a wild Sunday afternoon.
This lakeside venue offers a unique, beachy experience. Bright yellow cabanas line the upper level, where waitresses cater to attendees, offering bottle service, signature Bella Vita cuisine, and a luxurious slice of shade on a hot summer Sunday. Lined with brightly colored, lighted palm trees, Rehab has a tropical, party vibe. The wading pool is a refreshing centerpiece, positioned perfectly for a dancing girl to take to the water and make it her dance floor. Two stocked bars with scantily clad bartenders draw a crowd that love to indulge in the sinfully delicious signature cocktails.
Rehab often promotes a specific theme to draw a crowd. This summer, guests have enjoyed the “Casino Royale” event, at which two Blackjack tables and a Roulette wheel tested their luck. One week, Rehab hosted a “Pre-Fourth of July Bash,” the next, a sexy swimwear fashion show, courtesy of the producers of Midwest Fashion Week, with 18 models strutting poolside. Each Sunday Rehab has something for the competitive spirit. For example, a limbo contest with prizes such as popular concert tickets, free bottle service, and a day at the spa given to the lucky winners.
Mindy Winkler promotes the Rehab events through social media, and then leads the events each Sunday afternoon. She described Rehab as, “A weekly beach party here in Indiana. We encourage people to show up in their bathing suits, and for boaters to come to Rehab straight off of the water to enjoy some cocktails with friends. What else are people doing on a Sunday afternoon when it’s not football season?”
Andrew Young is a consistent Rehab DJ and singer. He described his musical menu as, “Songs from way back when, up until now. I make sure all genres are represented, so that everyone is happy.” His upbeat style encourages people to get up on the dance floor and have a good time. According to Young, “Everyone is winding down from the weekend, and we want to help that last part of the weekend last just a bit longer. It’s all about some good, clean fun on a Sunday afternoon.”
Rehab patron Chris Xanders stated, “It’s a great place to people watch, and hey, it’s cheaper than Vegas!” Every summer Sunday the party continues at Bella Vita, proving that sometimes spending time at rehab is a wildly good time.
