Gay nightlife in LA is diverse and always offers something for everyone. Whether you opt for the LGBT hot spots in West Hollywood or prefer the neighborhood feel of Silver Lake, you'll find a niche exactly right for you. Check out these LGBT-friendly favorites that have attained don't-miss status in LA. Then tell your friends back home that there's no place like LGBT Los Angeles.
The Abbey
692 N. Robertson Blvd.
W. Hollywood, CA 90069
310.289.8410
www.abbeyfoodandbar.com
Atmosphere: Hot and happening
Utterly breathtaking, this iconic establishment has won the unofficial honor of being LA’s “best gay bar,” making it a must-see in LA’s gay nightlife scene. Once a busy coffeehouse, this jazzy joint has attracted a crowd that loves the limelight. You'll come across luxuriously chic fireplaces and cabanas, as well as a list of delicious martinis. Get ready to pose, strut and smile — and check out why The Abbey has gotten so much press.
Akbar
4356 W. Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90029 (Silver Lake)
323.665.6810
www.akbarsilverlake.com
Atmosphere: Unpretentious lounge, weekend dancing
This is one of LA’s favorite places to chill out for cocktails and music. The mixed crowd at Akbar is trendy but not snobby, which comes as a relief to those who love its Moroccan-themed interior, cushy couches and laid-back vibe. There’s a definite neighborhood atmosphere for those who need reminders of their watering holes back home. You’ll meet anyone from business consultants to drag queens, and a sure-fire topic of conversation is always Akbar’s ever-popular jukebox selections. Weekends boast a small but raucously raging dance floor.
Oil Can Harry's
11502 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
818.760.9749
www.oilcanharrysla.com
Atmosphere: Uproariously fun
If you're in the Valley, your first stop for LGBT nightlife should be Oil Can Harry's, possibly one of the most talked about country bars in Los Angeles. It's all about the two-step here, and the down-to-earth crowd keeps the dance floor friendly and fun. For first-time shufflers, take advantage of free lessons three times a week, or swap out the cowboy boots for platform shoes on Saturdays when the music shifts gears to 70s disco.
Here Lounge
696 N. Robertson Blvd.
W. Hollywood, CA 90069
310.360.8455
www.herelounge.com
Atmosphere: Sexy
Don’t worry, the gorgeous crowd makes up for the lack of conversation at Here Lounge. True to its name, the LA favorite boasts a lounge atmosphere kicked up a notch, especially on weekends when the music starts pumping. Treat it as a pre-clubbing spot, but be warned: the vibe is so hip you might just end up staying here all night. Thursday and Friday nights are ladies nights with Kyss and Truck Stop. The other nights are mostly men but mixed.
The Palms
8572 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310.652.6188
www.thepalmsbar.com
Atmosphere: No-frills and friendly
Those who scoff at the glitz of gay clubs often end up at Palms, LA’s no-nonsense lesbian bar. Its reputation for friendliness still holds true, and perks like karaoke and 80s flashbacks make it a fun place where anything goes.
Jewel’s Catch One
4067 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90019
323.734.8849
www.jewelscatchone.com
Atmosphere: Diverse
When it opened in 1972, Jewel’s Catch One was the nation’s first black gay and lesbian disco. Since then, it has maintained a pioneering attitude, raising money for its nonprofit medical clinic, the Village Health Foundation. The good karma has apparently paid off, attracting a diverse crowd that loves to dance and mingle as long as there's music.
