Q gay bar

The owners are also local activists who helped pass local anti-discrimination legislation in the 1980s.

There’s never a cover, and you’ll also find one of the more extensive drink menus here, complete with a decent wine and beer list and Sidetrack’s famous frozen cocktails.

Sidetrack is generally heralded as the king of Chicago gay bars, and not for no reason : This behemoth bar has been a standout in the community since 1982

Sidetrack attracts a slightly older crowd than most Boystown spots do, with patrons ranging from their early ‘20s into their ‘50s and ‘60s.

Address : 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago 60657

For reservations : (773) 477-9189

NOBODY’s DARLING

In Andersonville, Nobody’s Darling is a black-owned, queer cocktail bar designed for women.

Named for an Alice Walker poem that celebrates "outcasts' ' and individualistic folks of all tribes, this narrow cocktail bar was conceived as a welcoming hangout, outfitted with sexy chandeliers and plenty of tables lining the sidewalk for those who prefer to drink outdoors.

Nobody’s Darling has emerged as a go-to neighbourhood hangout since its summer 2021 debut.

The more obscure, the better.

💪🏼 Massive

619 E Pine Street

Located right on the corner of Pine and Boyston, the three-level club that once housed the legendary R Place is now home to Massive, which opened in 2023. Regulars often gather outside for drinks and conversations, filling the entire street with a festive atmosphere.

Famous for its queer nights hosted by HOST, it invites anyone looking to dance and enjoy music without boundaries. A roster of DJs play a wide range of genres, from italo disco to darkwave to hyperpop.

Expect twinkling lights, greenery and gorgeous artworks, with of course, lots and lots of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Known by the Chinese character 宀, this spot is not exclusively LGBTQIA+, but it champions inclusivity, welcoming all races, genders, and sexual identities. A funky, divey cocktail lounge in one room, and a dance floor in the room adjacent.

Homosexuality was legalized in 1991 in Hong Kong, and although gay marriage still isn’t, being queer is no longer the taboo it once was. This neighbourhood gay bar has a chilled vibe, with exceptional cocktails.

Other perks: a coat check for a few dollars and several different kinds of alcoholic slushies.

The second Friday of each month, Big Chicks hosts FKA i.e Formerly Known As, a long-running dance party dedicated to welcoming folks of all genders.

Visit Big Chicks for trivia, the free Sunday night buffet, and the themed dance parties — then come back the next morning for brunch at the attached sister restaurant Tweet.

Address : 5024 N Sheridan Rd Chicago, IL 60640

Reservation : (773) 728-5511

BERLIN

If you know, you know—the true Berlin experience doesn’t start until after midnight.

Must-try drinks include their Hobnail and slushies, which are served by the all-female bartending team. It’s a hotspot for the younger, local gay crowd. Queer-friendly spaces may not be the norm in Hong Kong but increasingly there are a number of places that offer a safe space, a chance to meet other members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and of course, a great time!

Boo Bar — Jordan

Boo Bar is known for its bears and its karaoke.

It combines fragrant matcha with fresh perfume lemons for a refreshing drink.

Vibranium

Address: 5/F, Oliv, 15-21 Sharp Street East, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong（Google Maps）

Hours: Monday to Thursday, 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Friday to Saturday, 8:00 PM – 4:00 AM; Sunday, 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM

Price: Cocktails range from $88-108

Instagram | Facebook | +852 7071 4048

10.

They host drag multiple nights of the week, alongside karaoke, burlesque, and bingo events. Catch dance parties on the weekends along with the occasional drag brunch or event.

🎠 Pony

1221 E Madison Street

Pony is gay famous. There’s also a fire-side lounge and year-round outdoor patio.

With no cover charge or minimum spend, you can head straight to the dance floor, to get the party started! If you are a cocktail fan they also have a number of creative concoctions to sip on as you have a quiet moment with your partner or scour the room for new friends.

Location: Rear Block, 65 Hollywood Road, Central
Opening Hours: 6 pm–2 am (Mon-Sat); Close on Sunday
Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 2332 6565

Vibranium — Causeway Bay

Named after the “strongest metal on earth,” this gay club in Causeway Bay wants to create strength in its community while providing a comfortable, creative and cute gay hangout for a good time.