Though not truly ranked according to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) friendliness, the following places are likely to offer fun havens to their LGBT clientele.
Bars and clubs
Though the atmospheres at Chances and South Beach are worlds apart as bars and dance clubs go, they are two famous spots in Montrose that cater specifically to the LGBT community.’
Chances boasts of being ‘four bars in one,’ housing Chances Bar, Chances’ G-Spot, the Barn Saloon and the Chi-Chi Martini Bar all under one roof. Chances Bar has a jukebox and stage for live entertainment. Chances’ G-Spot is where DJs rule the dance floor by spinning top 40 and hip-hop music, while the Barn Saloon comes complete with pool tables and a dance floor with plenty of room to two-step.’
The Chi-Chi Martini Bar, a small side bar to escape the intensity of the other rooms, has a large surrounding patio and an outdoor area that make it easy to mingle while taking a smoke break.
Located at 1100 Westheimer Rd., Chances is an establishment for lesbian ladies and all of their friends 21 and older. There’s a $5 cover charge on Saturdays.’
For guys, South Beach is the place to be. Saturdays from 10:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. there’s no cover charge, and the cover is $10 after 11 p.m. Since its laser-lit dance floor can get a bit crowded, liquid ice jets periodically drop the temperature of the club 20 degrees in a matter of seconds, according to South Beach’s Web site.’
Don’t be fooled by the male dancers and hunky bartenders. With the draw of its pulsing dance music, you’ll find straight and gay couples alike standing in line to get stamped for free cover.’
Open later than most clubs and bars, South Beach is a common after-hours destination, so drop by at 810 Pacific St. ‘
Across the street from South Beach, Blur has balcony and patio space where patrons can chill out after grinding to the latest music hits, which occasionally includes some Latin flavor. There are bars downstairs and on the second floor. Guests 18 and older are allowed, but expect to pay a cover if you’re under 21.
Blur is open Wednesday to Sunday 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. There’s no cover before 11 p.m. for anyone older than 21, except on holidays and for special events. Visit Blur on 710 Pacific St.
Caf’eacute;s’
The Empire Caf’eacute; and the Onion Creek Coffeehouse Bar & Lounge are known to happily serve LGBT clientele.
Known for its great breakfast menu, Empire Caf’eacute; has coffee and food for those who want to eat right, but indulge a little. Located in historic Montrose, it’s a fitting spot to sit and contemplate an antique shop or resale store to visit.
For those who live in the Heights area, Onion Creek has more than a full bar to offer. Open seven days a week 6:30 a.m. to 2 a.m., its couches are perfect for lounging while sharing stories over a drink or two.’
Located at 3106 White Oak Blvd., Onion Creek offers the accessibility of a Saturday morning farmers market, various happy hours, Texas beer specials and steak night on Wednesdays, and also sponsors various events, such as a biker beer bash.’
Just about anywhere on Montrose
If you see a rainbow flag flying, there’s a good chance that diversity of all kinds is welcome.’
Montrose, established in 1911, is a demographically mixed neighborhood near downtown Houston.
Commuting
If you commute to Houston and are looking for a more southern LGBT-friendly hangout, Club Eden and Club Adam are located next door in Webster. Remember, in Webster it’s still permissible to smoke indoors.
