Despite the transvestite waitress’ attempts to stop me from taking photos, I still managed to snap a few that can convey a little bit of the vibe you can find at this off-the-beaten-path bar in Palermo. The fact that the cocktail waitress is a transvestite should start the wheels turning.

To get to Kim y Novak you take Guemes all the way out of Palermo until you run into a massive concrete wall. Kim y Novak will be the corner bar behind the wreckage. It is small, two-floored, and comes complete with some sidewalk seating and an ample length of curb to perch on. To maximize fresh air exposure you can bypass the inside bar by ordering through a window, never seeing the crazy decorations that include Barbie dolls hanging from a ceiling light or a series of cabaret legs painted on the wall.

The crowd tends to be interesting, predominantly hipster types with the occasional out of place older guy, or man in a business suit who bee lines it straight for the downstairs restroom for potential drug action. Somehow I’ve come to hear that it has a reputation for models to show up in the hours just before dawn, but in my three visits I cannot substantiate that claim.

Kim y Novak should definitely be checked out by young travellers. It has one of the most unique crowds and a very hip New York feel. It is grungy and stylish. It has a raw edge. Unfortunately, I have not found any other places like it. Mundo Bizzaro is the closest and warrants a visit. Bring your beat up high tops and torn jeans if you have them. Oh, and maybe don’t shave for a few days before you go if you are a dude.