Most days of the week, China Harbor is a restaurant and banquet facility catering primarily to special functions within the Chinese American community. On Thursdays and Saturdays, however, the large downstairs ballroom is converted into Ilusiones Latin Club, and the demographics change dramatically. China Harbor makes a full conversion on Ilusiones nights, turning the unassuming strip of white Westlake into the most Latin corner of Western Washington.
The attraction, of course, is dancing. Once you get past the security frisk, and pay your cover ($6-$7), you follow the thump of merengue into the inner sanctum: 90 percent dance floor. Along the wall is a bar selling thin, small drinks at fat, tall prices. But only the most dedicated wallflower could actually keep out of the fray. There is nothing quite as infectious as merengue being pumped through huge speakers at a crowd of swaying dancers under flattering strobe lights.
The dancing is ready for public participation: The level of competency of everyone on the floor is fairly good, but not intimidating. Besides, the figure-eight hip swaying and up-tempo loin grinding of the China Harbor crowd tends to discourage self-consciousness. The DJ plays merengue, cumbia, and Spanish-language rap and reggae styles to which you can do any old nasty stomp.
The more difficult salsa steps, turns, and dips won't be tested by most songs, so you can work out the kinks without hang-ups. If you still want a refresher before show time, though, Thursday night features a group lesson earlier in the evening. Either way, China Harbor is worth a visit for a better-dressed and more authentic Seattle dance experience.
