Workin’ It 2011

When Linda McAllister arrived in Washington, D.C. after college, she was astonished by the limited options for lesbian-specific eateries in our nation’s capitol. McAllister felt that a metro area as diverse as D.C. should have more choices—and rather than wait for someone else to do it, this go-getter opened Lace, an upscale restaurant and lounge, in November 2008. Located in the up-andcoming quadrant of Northeast D.C., Lace serves as a meeting point for the local lesbian community as well as a sexy spot for dinner, drinks and dancing. While most major cities offer numerous clubs for gay men, “having an attractive, well-run establishment for women in the nation’s capitol provides me with a great deal of satisfaction,” McAllister says. “The lesbian community should have entertainment options that are owned and operated by ourselves, creating a fully welcoming environment.” As she gears up to celebrate Lace’s third anniversary, McAllister says “passion” is her motivation. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “Don’t listen to the naysayers, and follow your heart!”