Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
After nearly 16 years presiding over one of Puerto Vallarta’s most distinctive nightlife venues, the owner of Reinas Bar, Marcus (Marco) Van Groeningen, says he will step aside and hand over the establishment’s “crown” to a new proprietor this spring.
Marcus, who opened the gay bar in Zona Romántica on Oct. 8, 2010, posted a message this week on Facebook announcing his departure and a change in ownership effective April 6. In his message, Van Groeningen said he will be passing “the crown” to Justin Campese, who currently owns The Banana Factory.
“Life is made up of separations as well as first meetings,” Van Groeningen wrote. “As much as I’ll miss the bar, and all of you … I know it’s time.”
In his social media post he thanked the staff and patrons — some of whom have become close friends — and urged customers to continue visiting Reinas after the transition. Parties planned for St. Patrick’s Day and Easter are expected to go on as usual.
“The Bar will be in good hands,” he added in a second post. “Justin is already a regular at the bar, because he sees the bar as it is, also as a ´home corner.´ He will definitely keep it as something beautiful, and let’s please especially continue to support him.”
Founded by Van Groeningen shortly after he moved to Vallarta from the Netherlands, Reinas became known for its playful royal theme — celebrating queens with décor ranging from tiaras and portraits of British royalty to wigs, dresses and high heels available for patrons to wear. The bar’s name, Reinas, means “queens” in Spanish, and it drew visitors and locals alike for its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. 
Marco and his bar have worked hard to give back to the community. Every year starting in November he collects new shoes for children. He asks his patrons to buy boys and girls shoes of various sizes, which he gives to local children. He collects hundreds of pairs each year to donate to Cheryl’s Shoe Box. In addition to shoes, he collects cash to buy supplies and other items for families in need.
In his farewell message, Van Groeningen said he plans to stay in Puerto Vallarta, but also hopes to visit family in the Netherlands more often.
He asked patrons to respect his staff by directing questions about the transition to him and Justin once more details are available.
“We still have a few weeks, so plenty of time for a good conversation,” he wrote, ending with a nod to his bar’s longtime theme: God save the Queen.
Related Stories:
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
