Hombres Lounge

Julius' is the oldest gay bar in New York. It's a friendly neighbourhood bar that's especially popular with locals who regularly stop by for drinks or delicious fried comfort foods after work, but tourists will always be welcomed. Both the staff and the regular crowd are friendly and accepting of the whole community, and everyone who discovers this hidden gem of a bar praises the cheap drinks and amazing quality of the food.

New York's neighbourhood fusion bar is welcoming to everyone of all identities, but it particularly popular with the lesbian community. The small but busy bar is tucked away in a corner of West Village, so it's surrounded by the history of the pride movement and the empowerment of its community. It continues to provide a safe space with a homely atmosphere and a diverse crowd. For new friends, queer conversations, and of course a few drinks, this is the place to go.

Rise is one of Hell's Kitchen's fan favourite gay bars, offering daily happy hour, specials, and nightly entertainment. You can start or end your night here with DJs, Drag shows, Karaoke and more. This bar is the perfect combination of a laid back and understated interior with a camp line up of acts, where no show is complete without the glitter ball! Its small space is always full of a mixed but mostly male crowd who love to dance.

Boxers Hell's KItchen is perfect for parties, drinks and big nights out. Its main level features a lounge area in the front, a full bar, plasma screens and seating for dining. On the lower level is the DogPound, which has a full bar, a digital video wall and is perfect to book for private parties. The upper level, The Terrace, is a roof deck with full bar, plenty of seating and great views.

The Phoenix has been a staple for gay nightlife in the East Village for decades, attracting generally younger clientele. It has always catered to a trendy and ever-changing crowd and is now the place to be seen for party lovers across New York and further afield. The Phoenix regularly hosts themed events and parties, as well as live music, DJs, and go-go dancers, but it's best known for its jukebox full of the latest and greatest pop.

The local LGBTQ community and their allies frequent this "hipster with dive vibes" bar in Brooklyn to enjoy a drink on comfy sofas around one of the fireplaces. If you prefer being outside, Metropolitan Bar boasts one of the best outdoor patio gardens in Brooklyn, and this huge space is open all year round. Drinks are consistently cheap and the perfect addition to karaoke, video games, craft nights, and a legendary Sunday barbecue.