Happy WORLDPRIDE | STONEWALL 50 BABES! The last weekend in June, millions of people from all over the world will descend upon our great, sprawling metropolis to celebrate the biggest Pride yet. Whether you are a seasoned NY lez, a baby dyke shyly taking the LIRR to NYC for the first time, or an international visitor making a WorldPride pilgrimage, you are going to need somewhere to eat, shop, drink, and play in between all your Pride revelry. Between all the incredible parties going on, it’s important to stop to refuel. If you are visiting, it’s important to get a real feel for the city with an ~insider scoop.~ So, after your obligatory (and amazing!) tourist stops, buckle in and let the GO girls be your guides to Pride here in NYC.
Where to eat
AOC
This chic, classic French restaurant is the perfect place to take your WorldPride fling for some wine and mussels in the garden. 314 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, http://aocnyc.com/.
Chez Josephine
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A tribute to Josephine Baker, this opulent and iconic restaurant features French staples and live piano. 414 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036, http://www.chezjosephine.com/.
Urban Vegan Kitchen
This intimate West Village restaurant serves delicious vegan comfort food for all you vegan lez babes. They also have an incredible cocktail menu. 41 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014, https://urbanvegankitchen.com/.
Milk And Roses
This is the most romantic restaurant in all of New York, in my humble dyke princess opinion. Dine on incredible pasta in either the sexy red library or in the lush and bright garden. 1110 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, https://milkandrosesbk.com/.
Bella Gioia
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This place makes authentic and BEYOND delicious Sicilian food that will feed both your stomach and your soul. My entire family is obsessed with this brilliant restaurant. Order the gnocchi rustica if you know what’s good for you. Plus, the waitresses are gorgeous and have gay vibes, but that just might be my wishful thinking. 209 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217, https://www.bellagioianyc.com/.
Forrest Point
Trendy and delicious with friendly AF staff, Forrest Point is a Bushwick staple. I used to live down the block and would often have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Forrest Point while furiously typing away on my laptop. Be sure to try the Fire In The Laundromat cocktail. 970 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206, http://www.forrestpoint.com/.
Gemma
My favorite date spot on earth, Gemma has the sexiest environment featuring massive melted candelabras. The only thing sexier than the decor? The pastas. 7138, 335 Bowery, New York, NY 10003, https://www.theboweryhotel.com/dining/gemma/.
Emmy Squared
If you’re going to be drinking a lot at Pride, you’re going to need to fill up on pizza first. Doctor’s orders. Also, be sure to try Emmy Squared’s cheese curds as well as their gourmet take on the Big Mac. Trust me. 364 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, https://www.emmysquared.com/.
Jacob’s Pickles
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A favorite of the GO Team, Jacob’s Pickles is a UWS classic serving the freshest and most delicious food. I’ve had the best salmon of my life here! 509 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, http://jacobs.picklehospitality.com/.
Caravan Of Dreams
Caravan Of Dreams is a bohemian restaurant offering inventive vegan dishes that are kosher & organic. They also have live music! 405 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009, https://caravanofdreams.net/.
Pico
A little out of the way from NYC, but well worth it to step into this beach town oasis and feast on some of the best Mexican food in New York. 419 Beach 129th St, Belle Harbor, NY 11694, http://picorbny.com/.
Where to play
Cubbyhole
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What we all like to think of the lesbian version of Cheers, Cubbyhole is the bar where everyone knows your name. Cubby is open 7 days a week and is always serving up cheap drinks with a queer smile. 281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014, http://www.cubbyholebar.com.
Ginger’s
Brooklyn’s very own lesbian watering hole, Ginger’s is considered Brooklyn’s finest G-spot. With daily specials and a gorgeous back patio, this is the ultimate place to get your chill on. 363 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, https://www.facebook.com/Gingersbar/.
The Stonewall Inn
The BIRTHPLACE of why you’re here celebrating Pride in NYC! Come have a drink, dance with your queer family, and honor the original destination of Pride. 53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014, https://thestonewallinnnyc.com/.
Henrietta Hudson
In the mood to dance the night away? To meet a sexy queer babe? To party in one of the most legendary lesbian bars ever? Then head to Hens. 438 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014, http://henriettahudson.com/.
Mood Ring
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Mood Ring is the SPOT. This astrology-themed bar is the perfect place to ask that hot girl what her sign is. They feature a new zodiac themed cocktail every month, and they are dangerously delicious. Stay in the front for a relaxed, dimly lit, sexy vibe. Head to the back for a queer dance party. 1260 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11221, http://moodringnyc.com/.
3 Dollar Bill
3 Dollar Bill, a queer Brooklyn club, is a guaranteed good time. Check out the incredible performances, and dance the night away surrounded by queer fam. 260 Meserole St, Brooklyn, NY 11206, https://www.3dollarbillbk.com/.
House Of Yes
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House Of Yes is where glittery gay dreams come true. Whether you’re admiring the gorgeous go-gos, losing yourself on the dancefloor, or getting mesmerized by the performances and art, you’ll feel like you’re in another gay dimension. 2 Wyckoff Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, https://houseofyes.org/.
The Box
This is a place you have to see to believe. The Box is an exclusive burlesque club that features opulent decor, flowing champagne, a gorgeous crowd, and delightfully disturbing and salaciously shocking performances. 189 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, http://www.theboxnyc.com/.
Good Room
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Good Room, located in my favorite neighborhood (Greenpoint) is an electronic music lover’s paradise. Come live your best life on the dance floor alongside sexy sweaty queer babes. 98 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, http://www.goodroombk.com/.
Where to get wet
Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove is one of the happiest places on earth. A historically gay Long Island haven, Cherry Grove has a popping and inclusive nightlife scene, as well as a slew of decadent restaurants. Slurp back a mudslide and shake it on the dance floor next to lit gays. Not to mention, it’s one of the most beautiful places ever! https://www.fireisland.com/towns/cherry-grove-fire-island/
The Pines
The Pines are the more bougie part of gay Fire Island. With perfect-looking gay men, fine dining, and pristine pools, this is the place to see and be seen. http://www.fireislandpines.com/
Egypt Beach
If you’re looking for a private and unique beach, Egypt Beach is an undeveloped beach (meaning no restrooms or lifeguards, so don’t drink too much!). This is one of the quietest and most beautiful stretches of sand along the Atlantic. V romantic, babes. East Hampton, https://www.easthamptonvillage.org/181/Beaches.
Riis Beach
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Even the sand glitters at this amazing gay beach! Sunbathe next to sparkly topless queers, get wet in the waves, and meet new people! Queens, http://riisparkbeachbazaar.com/.
McCarren Park Pool
The perfect place to take a much-needed dip between bar hopping in the hot June sun! The McCarren Park Pool is an Olympic sized pool that promises to be a good time. Williamsburg, https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/mccarren-park/facilities/outdoor-pools/mccarren-park-pool
Dream Downtown
You can buy a day pass to the gorgeous Dream Beach for $65. Sun yourself next to fabulous people and sip cocktails while floating in the dreamy pool. 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011, https://www.dreamhotels.com/downtown/amenities-en.html.
Jones Beach
Jones Beach is where the Long Islanders go for a good time. Enjoy a dip in the Atlantic, a delicious ice cream cone, and pop open a cold beer. Long Island, https://parks.ny.gov/parks/jonesbeach.
Where to primp
Hairarri
Hairarri is a queer-owned barber shop/salon that has collectively impressed every single of one of my friends that have visited. Though they specialize in shorter hair, I’ve gotten a gorgeous AF blow out at Hairrari that left me feeling like a lesbian Kardashian. Not only is the staff talented, but they are also kind, funny, and serve beer! East Village, Williamsburg and Bushwick, https://hairrari.com/.
House Of Nail Spa 1
House Of Nail Spa 1 is for icons. Ask for Angela to get the best powder extensions this city has to offer. Not to mention the most affordable. 370 Union Ave, First Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11211, snailzapp.com.
Wild Oleander
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If you want a lit beauty experience complete with Instagram-able decor, wine, and top-of-the-line service, head to Wild Oleander. Ask for Rea for gel extensions! She did my gorgeous Pride femme-icure last year. 222 Varet St, Brooklyn, NY 11206, https://www.wildoleander.com/.
BrowsZone
BrowsZone is probably my favorite place in the world. Catch me there every week getting my entire face threaded (Italian girl problems) and getting a lash fill-in. Their flare lashes are gorgeous, comfortable, and long-lasting. BrowsZone customer service is unparalleled—Marina, Dilshad, Mandeep, Nisha, Yasmin are my girls for life. 56 E 13th St A, New York, NY 10003, https://browszone.com/.
Lotus Threading
Another incredible choice for all my fellow hairy babes is Lotus Threading. With locations in both Queens and Brooklyn, these ladies have you covered for everything from threading, to pedicures, to waxing, to facials. Ridgewood and Brooklyn locations, http://lotusthreading.com/.
Urban Tanz
Oh, Urban Tanz, how I love you! If you’re a tanorexic like me (I’m from Long Island, what can I say?) then Urban Tanz is your best friend. Might I recommend the one-hour solution airbrush tan for a deep golden glow? No one wants to be pale for Pride. 133 Roebling St #133, Brooklyn, NY 11211, https://urbantanz.com/.
Valley Nails
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If you want to treat yourself to a chic salon, and an intricate, expert Pride manicure, you need to get your gay ass to Valley Nails. Multiple NYC locations, https://valleynail.com/.
Dry Bar
Want to have a gorgeous, flowing blow out for Pride? Head to one of the many Dry Bar NYC locations, enjoy a mimosa, and get treated like a queen. Multiple NYC locations, drybar.com
Where to shop
L Train Vintage
If you are a thrifting type of babe, L Train Vintage is your heaven. These enormous vintage shops are filled with all types of queer gems from fringe leather jackets, to 80s bombers, to cowboy boots. Brooklyn and NYC, https://www.ltrainvintagenyc.com/.
Phluid Project
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The Phluid Project has created a gender-free shopping movement. Experience it at 684 Broadway, New York, NY 10012, https://thephluidproject.com/.
Wildfang
In 2013, Wildfang “set out to create a home for badass womxn everywhere.” The creators believed that a woman has the right to wear whatever she pleases. Not only does Wildfang have divinely gorgeous suits and clothes, but they also do great things for the community. In 2018 alone, they raised over $400k for charities that support reproductive, immigrant, and women’s/human rights.252 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, https://www.wildfang.com/nyc-soho
Screaming Mimis
Screaming Mimis built their iconic reputation by “approaching vintage clothing and costumes from a fashion stylist’s perspective.” At this legendary store, you can expect elaborate displays, sexy staff, and a famous clientele. It’s not just a store: it’s an experience. 240 W 14th St, New York, NY 10011, https://www.screamingmimis.com/.
Trash & Vaudeville
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A legendary shop, this NYC staple is known for combat boots, studded jewelry, and classic band t-shirts. A lezzie’s dream! 96 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009, https://www.trashandvaudeville.com/.
The Brass Owl
The Brass Owl is a trendy, laid-back boutique with shoes, handcrafted jewelry, novelty tote bags, and more. 36-19 Ditmars Blvd, Queens, NY 11105, http://www.thebrassowl.com/.
Bulletin
A trendy little feminist shop, Bulletin is the place to get a “Designer Pussy” t-shirt, a “That Bitch” thong, and/or a Lana Del Rey candle. What else could you possibly need in life? Brooklyn and NYC, https://bulletin.co/.
Brooklyn Fox Lingerie
Pride is one of those times where it’s completely acceptable to wear lingerie as outerwear. Stop by Brooklyn Fox Lingerie to get a new gorgeous and sultry lewk just in time for Worldpride. 200 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, https://brooklynfoxlingerie.com/.
Patricia Field ArtFashion Gallery
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Patricia Field ArtFashion Gallery is comprised entirely of original made-to-order, hand-crafted pieces by a select group of artists, curated by the one-and-only Patricia Field. 200 E Broadway suite 3d, New York, NY 10002, https://patriciafield.com/pages/art-fashion-gallery.
Where to chill
Clean Market
Clean Market is your best friend if you have a hangover, and lez be honest, it’s Pride—you probably do. Stop by Clean Market to get a b-12 shot to rejuvenate and keep partying for Pride! 240 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022, https://cleanmarket.com/.
Sheep Meadow
A 15-acre meadow located near the southwestern section of Central Park from 66th to 69th Streets in Manhattan, Sheep Meadow is one of the city’s most beautiful places to chill. 1802 65th St Transverse, New York, NY 10065, http://www.centralparknyc.org/things-to-see-and-do/attractions/sheep-meadow.html.
Strawberry Fields
Strawberry Fields is a 2.5-acre landscaped section in Central Park, designed by the landscape architect Bruce Kelly. As you may know, it is dedicated to the memory of former Beatles member, John Lennon. Truly a must see! W 72nd St, New York, NY 10019, http://www.centralparknyc.org/things-to-see-and-do/attractions/strawberry-fields.html.
Syndicated
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Syndicated is an incredible movie theater/bar that is so cool I can barely stand it. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried their tequila infused chocolate milkshake. 40 Bogart St, Brooklyn, NY 11206, https://syndicatedbk.com/.
NiteHawk
NiteHawk is the ultimate dinner and movie experience. Get wined and dined straight at your movie seat at this perfect date spot. 136 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, https://nitehawkcinema.com/.
Aire Ancient Baths
Take a break from the crowds and noise by transcending into this wonderland. Take your bae for a soak in these ancient baths, and you’ll both come out feeling like a million bucks. 88 Franklin St, New York, NY 10013, https://beaire.com/en/aire-ancient-baths-newyork.
Brooklyn Cat Cafe
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Meeeooowww. What lesbian isn’t obsessed with cats? Head to the Brooklyn Cat Cafe to fawn over felines and probably end up adopting one because they’re so damn cute. 76 Montague St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, https://www.catcafebk.com/reservations.
Laughing Lotus Yoga
We love this yoga studio with fun art and beginner-friendly classes, complete with amazing music. Plus, Laugh Lotus is queer-woman owned! 636 6th Ave 3rd floor, New York, NY 10011, http://nyc.laughinglotus.com/.
What Do You Think?