If you're gay (or even if you're not) and you've been to NYC anytime in the last 15 years, you've probably eaten or partied at one of Bob Pontarelli and Stephen Heighton's restaurants or clubs. The duo owns some of the most popular queer hot spots, including Elmo, Barracuda, and their newest venue, Industry.
We caught up with them a few weeks ago to talk about how they got their start, the biggest challenges of running night clubs in NYC, Industry, and more:
Earlier this week we learned that Stephen passed away in his sleep last Saturday night. We're happy we had the chance to meet and chat with him and we'd like this video interview to serve as a tribute to his memory. There will be a gathering of Stephen's friends to honor and remember him on Monday, June 20th at Elmo from 7pm until 9pm. If anyone has any photos or memory items, they are welcome to bring them.
-- NOAH MICHELSON
Previously > Catching Up With Martha Wash
Years before Stonewall, a cafeteria riot became a breakthrough for trans rights
All about the Compton's Cafeteria riot, when drag queens and trans women rose up against police at a diner in San Francisco.