This iconic queer bar in New York City just got its groove back

Admittedly, my dancing card was a bit busy when I visited New York City earlier this year. Between dancing the night away as Lina Bradford spun at Cafeteria, seeing the marvelous Shequida Hall hosting at Balcon Salon, and brainstorming on a piece about the city's LGBTQ+ history, I completely forgot about another iconic queer spot coming back into the spotlight.

Once known for its wraparound bar, celebrity sightings, and cameos in popular shows like Sex and the City and Queer as Folk, g Lounge officially reopened with a fresh renovation this May at 225 West 19th Street. The lounge was a staple in the late 90s queer nightlife, and back under the ownership of its founder, Michael McGrail, it is back and more fabulous than ever.

I had a chance to chat with Michael about the reopening and what he has in store for patrons old and new.

Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière: Congrats on the grand reopening. In your words, how does it feel to bring back an iconic locale for the community?

Michael McGrail: Reopening g Lounge feels like coming home, not just for us, but for everyone who's ever walked through those doors. Chelsea has changed over the years, but the desire for spaces that are authentic, joyful, and safe hasn't. G Lounge was always more than a bar; it was a gathering place, a stage, a home. Bringing it back is about honoring that legacy while creating a space that feels alive and relevant today.

Walking in with our creative team, you can feel the history but also the excitement of what's next.

Something old, but something very new. What new services and features are you looking forward to providing customers?

We've reimagined g Lounge for 2025 while keeping its soul intact. The DJ booth is front and center, there's a dedicated dance floor, and seating is stylish and comfortable: perfect for lingering or socializing. Beyond nightlife, we're expanding into daytime workshops, creative meetups, panels on activism and wellness, and sober-friendly events. We're intentional about inclusivity too, with dedicated nights for trans and non-binary folks, people of color, and anyone exploring identity. G Lounge is now a hub for art, connection, and community as much as a place to dance and celebrate.

What's the favorite cocktail or drink we should be asking bartenders for?

You can't come to g Lounge without trying the frozen cosmopolitan—classic '90s nostalgia, updated for today. We've also introduced signature drinks like the gPaloma and gTini, along with craft mocktails from Ritual Zero Proof. There's something for everyone, whether you're here to sip, toast, or just soak in the vibe.

Any upcoming events we should look forward to?

We've got a full calendar, from high-energy dance nights to creative and reflective gatherings. Weekly highlights include drag competitions like Polish the Queen, hosted by the iconic Julie J with special guest judges such as Dev Doe, Dina Marie Delicious, Rify Royalty, and more. Another favorite is the happy-hour show Unleashed, hosted by Rhea Mezzanine and Alestaria. Add to that guest DJs, themed parties, and collaborations with global queer events such as Brazil's Treta Festa. For quieter nights, we offer Draw & Drink sessions, Jazz Nights, and community socials.

There's truly something for everyone, every night of the week.

In your words, what do you hope customers will take from the revitalized g Lounge?

We want everyone who walks in to feel welcome and seen. For those who remember the original g Lounge, there's nostalgia; for first-timers, excitement and curiosity. Ultimately, we hope people leave feeling connected, inspired, and proud to be part of a space where expression, joy, and belonging are not just encouraged—they're central to the experience.

Photos arranged for Out.com by Nikki Aye, Digital Photo Editor