The hilarious Cat Cohen’s Cabernet Cabaret takes place here on Wednesdays, and I’m proud to count myself among the artists who have graced the stage for special musical events. He took what was formerly the gritty and amazing Easternbloc and turned it into a decadent, ritzy (still affordable) space for a plethora of recurring shows. It also used to be a sailor hotel, which is pretty cool (and extremely gay).įabulous (and queer) actor Alan Cumming owns this staple bar in the East Village.
You’ll find great events here, from comedy shows to wine tastings. Located in the historically-LGBTQ+ West Village, The Jane is a gorgeous hotel that looks a bit Victorian in its decoration-fringed lampshades and velvet couches multiply in abundance. Top-notch drag shows from Drag Race winners like Aquaria happen at these spaces with regularity. While this popular hotel has locations in cities across the country, both Manhattan locales (Meatpacking and East Village) are hubs for queer nightlife. If that’s the kind of thing you’re looking for, welcome to your nirvana. It’s more homogenous and geared toward gay men-specifically, muscular dudes in jockstraps. If you’re looking for Top 40 hits, sweaty mosh pits, and (surprisingly) great Mexican food, this is the place for you.
There’s some great dancing with fog machines and drag queens to be had in these parts. You’ll find hipsters aplenty (ironic tattoos, nose rings, and the tiny sunglasses trend thrive here) with tons of bars and cafes to keep them nourished.
Most people I know who are in their twenties and queer in New York live in Bushwick. It’s also a gorgeous, quiet, tree-lined locale that’s breathtaking to walk through on a sunny summer afternoon. The famous Stonewall Riots took place here, and you can still score a nice happy hour and dance floor at that same, eponymous bar today. This is one of the oldest LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in the city.