LGBTQ+ businesses to support in NYC | Pride 2024
Cubbyhole Bar
It’s pride month, and the city is alive and colorful. There’s a plethora of events to attend, whether it’s the big Pride March in Manhattan on the 30th or one of the various queer parties in clubs across town. But NYC is believed to have the largest LGBTQ+ population in the country – that’s something to celebrate year-round.
Between all the partying, there are ways to support and encourage the community while getting your hair cut or a quick cup of coffee. We’ve collected some LGBTQ+-owned businesses to keep on your radar, throughout the month and beyond.
Bars
Good Judy
Park Slope
Among the monotonous brownstones of Park Slope is Good Judy, a colorful safe haven in South Brooklyn for queers and allies of every background. This two-floor bar is known for its event calendar, packed with drag shows and karaoke nights in the piano lounge upstairs. Find a cozy corner indoors to take jello shots with friends, or yap to your heart's content on the backyard patio.
Jungle Bird
Chelsea
This classy, tropical cocktail bar thrives in summer, with funky drinks and Asian-inspired dishes. Jungle Bird’s main space features teal seating, a stocked bar, and an abstract nude mural by LA-based painter Jessalyn Brooks. The bright upstairs is equally colorful, letting in natural light from the summer sunshine, and can be used as an event space for larger groups.
No Bar
East Village
A sparkling new queer bar and party space by the new creative director of The Standard Hotels, No Bar is an upscale neighbourhood spot aiming to turn up the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene in the East Village. You’ll find thoughtful cocktails and pub grub on the menu – enjoy them under a disco ball, surrounded by cow-print booths and funky artwork.
929
Queens
This hybrid listening bar and cocktail joint is inspired by 1980s Cantonese and Mandarin pop culture, fuelled by the owner’s nostalgia and desire to preserve heritage. Find unique cocktails inspired by Chinese ingredients, dimly-lit booths, and vintage memorabilia.
Mary’s Bar
Greenpoint
A new sister spot to the iconic lesbian bar Ginger’s in Park Slope, Mary’s is a queer pub inspired by Ireland’s recent wave of social and cultural shifts. Marrying Irish hospitality with the welcoming atmosphere of the LGBTQ+ community, Mary’s is a casual spot to enjoy a friendly pint of Guinness with friends.
Cubbyhole Bar
West Village
As one of the few remaining lesbian bars in the city, Cubbyhole has been a gayborhood staple since 1987. A go-to spot for the local queer community, it feels like home to its regulars. The ceilings are covered in lanterns, lights, and chandeliers, and the eclectic decor extends to its small outdoor space. The cocktails and $3-$6 Happy Hour is only a perk.
For more LGBTQ+ bars, check out our list of queer bars in NYC.
Restaurants
Cowgirl
West Village
Founded in 1989, Cowgirl is proud to bring Southern hospitality to NYC through Southwestern cuisine and killer margaritas. Kitschy decor, comfort food, and kid-friendly atmosphere bring a piece of small-town America to the big city.
Hags
East Village
Breaking through the tight-lipped culture of traditional fine dining, HAGS is on a quest to bring comfort and queerness to the upscale restaurant culture of NYC. With two tasting menus (omnivore and vegan), a 20-seat restaurant, and pay-what-you-can Sunday brunch, owners Justice and Lindsley seek to celebrate inclusivity and queer joy through food.
Lilia
Williamsburg
This coveted Italian spot is housed in an airy converted auto shop in Brooklyn, and if you can get a reservation, you’re in for a treat. Behind the lofted, industrial space is well-executed and authentic cuisine, with options for seafood, an all-Italian wine list, and housemade pasta that’ll blow your socks off.
Kopitiam
Lower East Side
A fast-casual eatery home to Nyona cuisine, Kopitam is an homage to the intimate eateries of Malaysia. Combining Chinese and Malaysian recipes with European influences, you’ll find a unique, familial atmosphere that makes the dishes taste like home – even from a world away.
Elmo
Chelsea
Elmo has been a staple restaurant in the NYC LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years. A comfort-chic interior combined with classic American fare – with possibly the best mac and cheese in the city – make it a reliable spot for a catch-up with friends. Check out the alluring Coby Club cocktail lounge downstairs.
Blue Park Kitchen
Midtown/FiDi
If you’re looking to switch up your usual Sweetgreen lunch, head to Blue Park Kitchen, an easygoing joint for hearty build-your-own bowls. Prioritising fresh ingredients and simple recipes, they’ll make you feel okay about forgetting to meal plan this week.
Cafes and Quick Bites
L’imprimerie
Bushwick
If you’re looking for a sweet treat, this French bakery and community space is a great place to grab one. High-quality pastries are made in small batches, using organic and local ingredients.
Coffee Project NYC
Various locations
With eight locations across NYC, The Coffee Project is dedicated to making creative, speciality coffee while improving the livelihoods of every person in the supply chain. They also run an SCA-certified training center and roastery.
Edy’s Grocer
Greenpoint
This deli does stock pantry staples, but mainly specializes in quick, mezze-style meals for breakfast and lunch. Order sandwiches, pastries, or bowls inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine.
Big Gay Ice Cream
Various Locations
Every New Yorker knows Big Gay Ice Cream. This dessert spot has build-your-own soft serve, donuts, and other treats with a fun twist.
Foster Sundry
Bushwick
A butcher shop, fancy grocery shop and deli, Foster Sundry has one of the best breakfast burritos in town. You’ll find whole-animal meats, funky cheeses from around the world, and small-batch snacks.
Baz Bagel
Little Italy
Known for its iconic rainbow bagels, Baz Bagel offers Jewish comfort fare in a retro deli space. With bagels hand-rolled daily, this family-owned spot has been a staple in the neighborhood for over ten years.
Shopping
Bluestockings
Lower East Side
For books and coffee from an inclusive, worker-owned business.
November 19
Lower East Side
For unique gifts like baguette candles and edamame chopstick rests.
Lockwood
Various Locations
For gifts and stationery like notebooks, playing cards, and stickers.
The Ripped Bodice
Park Slope
For romance novels of all kinds and gifts from women-owned businesses.
Exit 9
Downtown Brooklyn & East Village
For locally sourced and eclectic gifts.
Miscellaneous
Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art
SoHo
As the only museum in the world dedicated to LGBTQ+ art, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art seeks to protect and nurture queer artists and their work.
Outbox Gym
Williamsburg
This boxing and fitness gym centers the LGBTQ+ community, promoting a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere to work out in.
Brooklyn Comedy Collective
Williamsburg
Founded in 2018, the Brooklyn Comedy Collective promotes diverse voices and encourages performers to take risks and embrace their individuality.
Mutiny
Gowanus
A collective of queer and trans barbers, Mutiny focuses on gender-affirming haircuts and creating a safe space for clients.
Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art
SoHo
As the only museum in the world dedicated to LGBTQ+ art, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art seeks to protect and nurture queer artists and their work.