Best Gay and Lesbian Bars
New York has a very vibrant gay and lesbian scene, from the West Village — the birthplace of the modern LGBT movement– to Park Slope–once affectionately dubbed "dyke slope" because of its big lesbian population. Whether you're in the mood for a casual neighborhood hangout, a more trendy scene or an iconic landmark, we've got you covered.
The Cubby Hole
281 West 12th Street, West Village
www.cubbyholebar.com
If you're looking for a festive spot where everyone "knows your name," look no further. Set in an aquatic theme, here you'll find everything from Christmas lights to pinatas hanging from the ceilings. A friendly bar staff is always willing to pour your favorite libation at a reasonable price — When I was there it happened to be somebody's birthday, so we all sang while the bartender poured free shots for the house. Daily drink specials include $2 Margaritas (Tuesdays) and $3 Jolly Ranchers (Apple and Pineapple Puckers). The bar caters mostly to women but everyone is welcome. It's cash only, so don't forget to bring some green.
Stiletto at the Maritime Hotel Cabanas
Corner of 9th Ave and 17th Street
Lesbian Brunch 2p-10p Sundays
www.themaritimehotel.com/cabanas.html
The "Real L Word" New York City style! Ladies, gather with friends, meet Ms. Right, shake your booty or just get your drink on at the Cabanas at the Maritime Hotel every Sunday. Enjoy a mimosa, bloody mary or whatever you fancy in a beautiful outdoor setting, or throw a few back inside if you prefer. Also, no need to leave Fido at home—the patio is pet friendly
Henrietta Hudson
438 Hudson Street at the Corner of Morton
www.henriettahudson.com
This Hudson Street "Bar and Girl" has been serving the lesbian community for 20 years. A diverse crowd can be found shooting pool, dancing to the latest spins by house DJs or just enjoying some pretty delish drinks – including the "Go-Go Goddess" and the "Henrietta Hurricane." Happy Hour 2-for-1 well drinks, draft & domestic beers M-F 4-7 p.m; Lesbian Recession Stimulus Package Happy Hour extended to Saturdays and Sundays 2-5 p.m. Men welcome. Dressy casual attire preferred.
Splash
50 West 17th Street
www.splashbar.com
There's something for everyone at this fun, friendly club, bar and lounge. From Musical Mondays, Karaoke Tuesdays and Saturday's Stud Search, you certainly won't be bored at this Flatiron hot spot. But the best part –besides a zillion hot guys?–the 2-for-1 drinks from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. 7 days a week. Now that's what we call a happy hour.
G Lounge
225 West 19th Street Chelsea
www.glounge.com
Home of the G-Licious Happy Hour 4-9 pm, this Chelsea lounge and nightspot's resident DJs spin the beats 7 nights a week. The drinks are strong, not too expensive and are served by some of the hottest guys around.
Therapy
348 West 52nd Street Midtown
212-397-1700
www.therapy-nyc.com
This swanky midtown club looks more like a spa than a nightclub, but if you're in need of some therapy, you can sit by the meditation pond while drinking a "Freudian Sip." This club embodies everything you'd expect from its name — a serene, intimate environment offering way more than the usual pulsing beats and dark interior found in many gay clubs. Weekly shows include: The Electro Shock Therapy Comedy Hour on Sundays and Psycho Babble on Tuesdays.
The Stonewall Inn
53 Christopher Street
212-488-2705
West Village
www.thestonewallinnnyc.com
If you're a member of the LGBT community and would like to see where history was made, then stop by the Stonewall Inn in the West Village. Stonewall is the home of the 1969 Stonewall Riots – when, in the early morning hours of June 28, bar patrons fought back against unconstitutional police raids and arrests, which sparked the modern Gay and Lesbian rights movement. Recently renovated and under new management, have a drink and take it all in on one of the bars now on two floors.
Ginger's Bar
363 5th Ave, Park Slope
718 788 0924
www.thestonewallinnnyc.com
This unpretentious neighborhood bar has been the watering hole of choice for the ladies of Park Slop for years, but now lesbians from all over are making the trek to shoot pool in the back, sing Karaoke every Thuesdat during Bklyn Idol (5-8) or just to hang out. Happy hour drink specials incluse 2-for-1 domestic beer and well drinks Monday and Wednesday.
