Gay Bars & LGBTQ+ Venues in New York, NY — Page 12

Light streams through the glass roof of a three-story atrium, where swimmers do laps in the pool at Manhattan Plaza Health Club. This Hell's Kitchen gym, open since 1978, started as a resident swim club and has grown into a 35,000-square-foot complex. You'll find rock climbing, spinning, pilates, yoga, a spa, sauna, and massage here. The vibe is straight-up fitness with no attitude, welcoming a mixed LGBTQ+ and straight crowd. Scuba diving classes are a unique offering you won't find at most gyms. The place feels more like a community center than a typical fitness club. Hours run 6am to 10pm weekdays, with shorter weekend hours. Since it's in Hell's Kitchen near the theater district, it's handy for locals and visitors. If you're in the mood for a different kind of recovery, the Russian & Turkish Baths are nearby. The Yelp rating averages 3.5 stars across 234 reviews, and free Wi-Fi is included.

"Some think it's filled with the whos who but it seems more like a place for the has been," reads one review of West Bank Cafe in Hell's Kitchen. Since 1978, this theatre district mainstay has drawn a mixed crowd of 30-somethings to 50-somethings, with a pre-theater rush that justifies its tagline. Chef Joe Marcus serves progressive American cooking, and the downstairs Laurie Beechman Theater has hosted emerging talents like Lewis Black and Sean Penn. You'll find an award-winning wine list, thanks to owner Steve Olsen's sommelier credentials, and a full bar for late-night drinks. Outdoor seating is available when the weather's nice. Reservations recommended before shows. The crowd leans older and artsy, blending Broadway regulars with neighborhood locals. If you're up for exploring, Katz's Delicatessen is a classic NYC stop nearby.

This Hell's Kitchen spot draws a mix of locals and theater-goers seeking authentic Vietnamese comfort food. Cha Pa's Noodles and Grill is a family-run hideaway where the recipes come from the owner's grandmother. It's cozy, casual, and dog friendly, with a full beer and wine list. The menu covers pho, bun noodle bowls, and banh mi sandwiches, all made with high-quality home-style ingredients. Happy hour runs daily, and reservations are accepted. It gets busy before Broadway shows, so plan accordingly. If you're craving banh mi or pho, this is one of the few spots in the Theater District that delivers without the tourist markup.

The crowd here tends to be travelers who appreciate a quieter stay without a big hotel scene. Casamia 36 is a small hotel with compact, minimalist rooms that are clean and modern, located near Penn Station in Midtown. It's a straightforward, no-fuss option for those who value style and location over amenities. The hotel offers a casual, mixed-gay-straight vibe with friendly service. If you need more space or a livelier atmosphere, the nearby YOTEL New York might be worth checking out. But if you're fine with a smaller, more intimate hotel, Casamia 36 fits the bill.

You might expect a hotel on 5th Avenue to be stuffy, but the Andaz turns that assumption on its head. This Hyatt concept property brings a chic, uncomplicated energy to midtown, with a pet-friendly policy and free wifi that make it feel more like a stylish friend's apartment than a traditional luxury hotel. Its location across from the New York Public Library lions puts you steps from the city's best shopping and nightlife. The hotel operates 24 hours daily, so you can check in after a late flight or grab a snack at any hour. It's a favorite among LGBTQ+ travelers for its laid-back, mixed-gay-straight vibe. If you're looking for more options nearby, the Grand Hyatt New York is another solid choice just a few blocks away.

If you think a seafood restaurant can't earn three Michelin stars, La Bernardin proves otherwise. It started in Paris in 1972 and relocated to New York in 1986, where chef Eric Ripert has led it to new heights. The dining room feels sophisticated and romantic, drawing a crowd mostly in their 30s to 50s. Reservations here are famously hard to come by, so plan ahead. The focus is French-inspired seafood at its finest. It's the kind of place regulars book months in advance, and for good reason.

Walking into Tomo21 Sushi, you notice the bare furnishings first. This is the former Tomoe Sushi, a spot that's been described as 'dance ten looks three' — rough around the edges but delivering on quality. The toro tartare melts in your mouth, and the spare ribs, fresh sushi, and chicken skewers are all solid picks. It's a casual fine-dining experience with a focus on Japanese cuisine and sushi. The West Village location puts you near Houston Street, making it easy to hit nearby bars after dinner. Hours run Tuesday through Saturday from 1:00 pm to 11:00 pm, with shorter hours on Monday and Sunday (Sunday closing is unconfirmed). With only three ratings and a modest look, it's a diamond in the rough that regulars appreciate for substance over style.

You might expect a classic burger joint to be a loud, flashy sports bar, but Corner Bistro in New York's West Village is the opposite. It's a no-frills pub that's been serving customers since the early 1900s, with an unchanged original ambience. The rustic bar and outdoor seating create a casual setting where the music of the 70s plays overhead. They're known for juicy burgers, tots, and a full bar, drawing a mixed gay-straight crowd that appreciates this old-school spot. Late-night eats are a specialty here. The kitchen stays open until 2am or 4am depending on the night, making it a reliable stop after a show or a night out. Regulars know that the best nights to visit are Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday. It's the kind of place where you can grab a pint and a burger without any pretense, just honest food and a relaxed vibe.

Morandi serves Italian fare from Keith McNally with split hours for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. It's a trattoria with outdoor seating that feels like Rome, and Yelp confirms a full bar and reservation availability. The West Village location draws a mixed crowd of gay and straight diners. Go for a late lunch Saturday or Sunday when the brunch hours run 11am to 4:30pm. Dinner runs until 11pm Thursday through Saturday, so you can linger over pasta and wine. It's family-friendly and moderate in price for the neighborhood.

The West Village's Knickerbocker Bar & Grill has been a neighborhood mainstay since 1977, known for its jazz-fueled evenings and charcoal-grilled T-bone steak. This family-friendly spot draws a mixed crowd of locals and visitors, blending old New York club vibes with reasonable prices. It's fine dining but never stuffy. House-made pastas and desserts are crafted on-site, and the full bar keeps things flowing. Reserve ahead, especially for live jazz on Fridays and Saturdays. Tuesdays through Thursdays are ideal for a quieter meal. If you're craving classic deli fare, Katz's Delicatessen is a short walk away.

Servers at the West Village location are often cute and polite, according to regulars. L'Arte del Gelato opened in 2005, founded by a Sicilian immigrant who learned gelato-making from masters across Italy. This flagship shop sticks to traditional recipes using fresh milk, hazelnuts, and seasonal fruit. It's a casual, family-friendly stop for a budget-friendly sweet treat. The neighborhood spot attracts a mixed crowd of all ages. Hours run 11am to 10pm daily. If you're in the area, nearby Katz's Delicatessen is another institution worth visiting, but save room for the gelato.

A review notes that anyone can visit the sky lobby for one of the best views of South Central Park. The Mandarin Oriental, New York sits atop Columbus Circle with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Manhattan skyline. This upscale hotel has a mixed LGBT-friendly vibe, a swimming pool, gym, and spa. Rooms offer a perspective that helps you navigate the city from above. The hotel is open 24 hours with confirmed free WiFi. The Upper West Side location puts you near Central Park and Lincoln Center. Regulars know the sky lobby is a quiet spot to watch the sunset without a room key. Rates are expensive, reflecting the five-star experience.

On the Upper West Side near 94th Street, Pio Pio 6 serves Peruvian food that keeps the neighborhood coming back. This is a family-friendly spot with a mixed gay-straight crowd, known for its rotisserie chicken and addictive green sauce. The vibe is lively, the place is almost always packed, and the full bar makes the wait for a table easy to manage. Prices are moderate, and the menu leans into Latin and seafood dishes with a soul-food touch. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially on weekends when the line stretches into the bar area. Happy hour runs at the bar, where a pitcher of sangria often turns into two or three. The restaurant stays open from 11am to 10pm most nights, with a later closing on Fridays and Saturdays at 11pm. It's one of the best Peruvian restaurants in New York City.

You might expect a classic French bistro to feel stuffy or dated, but Cafe Luxembourg on the Upper West Side has been a reliably charming neighborhood spot since 1983. The 90-seat dining room glows under Jean Perzel fixtures and antique mirrors, with tables covered in white paper over linen. The staff wear long white bistro aprons, serving French-American cuisine like duck cassoulet and the house-special Luxemburger. It's mixed gay-straight, with a crowd that leans 20s and 30s, and there's a full bar for cocktails like the Three Naked Ladies. The vibe is casual enough for a snack with a friend, but polished enough for a date night. Outdoor seating is available when weather cooperates, and the place is dog friendly. Reservations are accepted, which helps on busy Thursday through Saturday nights. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner are all served, from 8:30 am Monday through Friday, 10 am weekends. You'll find it's a reliable, wonderful, perfect spot for a little taste of France without the pretense.

Arte Cafe sets itself apart from other Upper West Side eateries as a Pan-Italian trattoria with an outdoor patio garden. It attracts a mixed gay-straight crowd and offers a full bar, happy hour, and Sunday brunch. The ambiance is upscale yet comfortable for groups. Reservations are accepted and free wifi is available. The Yelp rating sits at 3/5 from 822 reviews, so expectations should be measured. Hours vary: weekdays open at noon, weekends at 11am, with late hours until midnight on Saturdays.

The pool deck is a glamorous rooftop escape with private cabanas, but the atmosphere can feel mixed-gay-straight and more tourist-driven than neighborhood-focused. This Upper West Side boutique hotel offers 420 rooms with Italian linen bedding and animal-print cushions, plus a spa and outdoor seating. Yelp users rate it 2.6 out of 5 stars based on 841 reviews, and some cite inconsistent service and dated decor despite the prime location near Broadway and Central Park. The hotel is dog friendly and includes free WiFi. Rooms come in moderate to high price tiers. For a different vibe, YOTEL New York offers a more streamlined stay. The Empire Hotel's 24-hour front desk means you can check in anytime, but confirm pool hours ahead of your visit since they aren't guaranteed.

Jonathan Adler UWS sells modern furniture on the Upper West Side near 74th Street. The shop carries bold accent pieces and conversation starters for your home. It's a go-to for both full redecorating and specific statement items. The price tier is $$$, so expect investment pieces. It's open Monday through Saturday until 7pm and Sunday until 6pm. After shopping, you might head to Chelsea Market for a bite.

You'll find floor-to-ceiling French windows and live jazz at Cafe Lalo, a European-style cafe on the Upper West Side that's been serving desserts and cappuccinos since 1988. Known as a spot to see and be seen, it attracts writers, artists, and locals who linger over coffee and baked goods. The atmosphere is lively, with live entertainment most nights. Open daily from 9am, Cafe Lalo stays open until 1am most nights and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a late-night dessert destination. It offers brunch, a full bar, and a casual vibe. Note that it may be temporarily closed, so check before heading over.

Walking into Beacon Theatre, you're hit by the opulence of a 1929 movie palace designed by Walter Ahlschlager, the 'older sister' to Radio City Music Hall. This 2,800-seat Upper West Side venue has hosted everyone from the Allman Brothers (their final show in 2014) to Jerry Seinfeld's comedy residency. It's a straight-friendly space but a beloved spot for queer New Yorkers who appreciate historic architecture and top-tier live entertainment. The box office is open daily 10am-6pm, and there's a full bar and free wifi. Best nights are Friday through Sunday. For a pre-show bite, you're steps from the neighborhood's many restaurants. Check the calendar—comedy and concerts dominate, but the venue also hosts film premieres and benefits.

The sizzle of fried chicken mingles with Spanish spices at this Upper West Side fusion spot. La Dinastia has been serving its brand of Chinese-Spanish fusion since 1986, when a group of Chinese immigrants from South America opened its doors. The menu highlights the famous Fried Boneless "Crackling" Chicken, and the casual, fast-casual vibe makes it a solid choice for groups looking to share. Bring your dog along if you'd like, as it's dog friendly. They serve beer and wine only to pair with your meal. You'll find it open daily from 11:30 am to 10 pm, perfect for a late lunch or early dinner. If you're in the mood for something different, Clinton St. Baking Company is nearby for a classic American breakfast another day.

A mixed LGBTQ+ and straight crowd gathers at The Castello Plan, a Ditmas Park spot that's equal parts cafe, cocktail bar, and tapas destination. Chef Natasha Pogrebinsky serves creative American-European fusion dishes alongside a killer wine list and crafted cocktails. The vibe is lively but upscale, with an outdoor patio and free WiFi. Owner Taj Singh took over in April 2019 and plans to add draft beer, elevate the menu, and introduce barista coffee service. The Castello Plan takes reservations and is open daily from 10 or 11am until 10pm or midnight, depending on the day. Best nights per Yelp are Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. It's a local favorite that supports Brooklyn-based businesses and the community.

Cafe Grumpy - Greenpoint is a women-led cafe that offers budget-friendly coffee and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It features a book exchange, making it a great spot to grab a read while you sip. The interior has clean, simple decor with warm lighting and plenty of seating. The vibe is casual, drawing a mixed LGBTQ and straight crowd. It's ideal for studying, people-watching, or zoning out online. If you're in the mood for a classic New York meal afterward, head to Katz's Delicatessen nearby.

Community Bookstore has been a Park Slope staple for over 40 years, since 1971. It's an independent bookstore with a big personality, known for its well-curated shelves, beautiful garden, and even a charismatic resident cat. The shop is dog-friendly, so you can browse with your pup. It's the kind of place regulars pop into for a chat as much as for a book. The reading series here is not to be missed. The bookstore sits near Garfield Place, in the heart of the neighborhood. If you're exploring beyond books, Chelsea Market is nearby for more shopping. Check their hours before visiting; they close at 6pm on Sundays.

You'll find a mix of locals and folks from outside the neighborhood at Sisters, a Brooklyn spot serving New American fare with classic cocktails, craft beer, and wines. The back room has a stage and DJ booth, so it's a go-to for live entertainment. It's casual yet trendy, with outdoor seating and a full bar. Reservations are available, which is handy since the place gets busy, especially for brunch and late-night on weekends when they're open until 2am. If you're exploring the area, Clinton St. Baking Company is nearby for a different brunch vibe.

You'll find history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and curious locals exploring Manhattan's oldest home. Morris-Jumel Mansion was built in 1765 and served as George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War. The house also became home to Eliza Jumel and Aaron Burr after her first husband's death. Today, it operates as a not-for-profit museum, showcasing Georgian architecture and an octagon room rare in the colonies. The mansion sits in Washington Heights near 162nd Street, open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is budget-friendly, and the crowd tends to be mixed LGBTQ+ and straight. If you're near the American Museum of Natural History, it's worth the trip uptown for a quieter historical experience. Check their website for any special events or tours.

The Westin New York at Times Square is a dog-friendly hotel that lets you bring your pup along while enjoying the signature Heavenly Bed. The 24-hour fitness studio features Peloton bikes so you can keep up your routine. Foundry Kitchen & Bar serves American cuisine and crafted cocktails right off the lobby. You're steps from Broadway shows and subways to everywhere. The hotel is family-friendly and open to all. Over 34,000 square feet of event space means groups have room. If you want a full-service hub for exploring the city, this spot delivers.

Walk into The Michelangelo and the first thing you'll notice is the fresh flowers everywhere. Marble floors and antique furnishings set the tone for this Italian-themed boutique hotel in Times Square. Guest rooms use pastel tones with polished woods and drapes. The vibe is upscale but lively, with a mixed LGBTQ+ crowd. The hotel is 24 hours, so you can check in anytime. Free wifi is included. It's near the New York Marriott Marquis if you need another option nearby. The Michelangelo is a solid choice for a luxurious stay in midtown Manhattan.

You walk into a buzzing lobby surrounded by the neon energy of Times Square. The Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan Hotel sits right in the middle of New York's busiest scene, drawing a mixed LGBTQ+ and straight crowd. Rooms on higher floors offer sweeping views of both Times Square and the Hudson River. The hotel has a swimming pool, rare for this neighborhood, and a Sunday brunch that's popular with guests. Rooms are generously sized for New York, with large TVs and solid bathrooms. Housekeeping is consistently praised. But check-in can be rocky — some guests report room mix-ups that take a supervisor to resolve. The hotel charges extra for many amenities, so review your folio carefully. If you want another option nearby, the New York Marriott Marquis is a short walk away. Best for a short stay when you want to be steps from Broadway and the lights of Times Square.

Walking into Cafe Un Deux Trois, you'll notice the buzz of post-theater energy. This French brasserie, open since 1977, has long been a hangout for Broadway performers and their fans. The crowd is mixed, straight and gay, and the vibe is family-friendly. It's the kind of place where a cast party might break out at the next table. The menu covers classic bistro fare, weekend brunch, and a popular crepe selection. You can grab a seat in the outdoor area or at the bar. The restaurant takes reservations, which is handy for pre-theater timing. Just note that Yelp lists the venue as possibly permanently closed.

This is not your typical Times Square tourist trap. Orso is a family-friendly Italian restaurant with a mixed gay and straight crowd, serving rustic cuisine on Restaurant Row. It opened in 1983, the same year owner Joe Allen launched it next to his famous steakhouse. The menu focuses on simple-yet-elegant Italian dishes and pizza in a lively but upscale setting. You can book a reservation easily. The restaurant confirms a full bar and free wifi. Best time for an intimate dinner is 8:00pm, but it's also popular for pre-theater dining. It's a short stroll from Broadway shows, making it a convenient spot for a meal before curtain. Many regulars are locals who appreciate the reliable service.