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People&Culture

New York City Gay/Lesbian Bars

Bar d'O

Cross-dressing chanteuses sing for less stylish polysexuals (and their godmothers) at this mod boudoir.

The Scene

A contiguous strip of mirrors bisects this retro lounge's tri-colored walls, painted in appropriate shades of apricot, dusky rose and avocado. The brass chandelier resembling a giant atom solidifies the bar's late 60s chic interior. On the vinyl banquettes--spruced up with the occasional op-art pillow--savvy, young tourists sit cheek by jowl with casually attired locals. The real glamour arrives late on weekend nights when transvestite and transgendered performers sing karaoke-style while dressed to the nines.

The Draw

Most clubs have fliers to indicate what acts are playing which nights. In contrast, Bar d'O has metal plaques nailed to the brick wall outside--which gives a good indication of the lineup's permanence. Although former fixture and Billie Holiday-channeler Joey Arias headed West for Cirque du Soleil in Vegas, other longtimers such as the jazzy Raven-O, crooner Sade Pendavis and gender illusionist Cashetta, keep this hideaway a happening hot spot.

29 Bedford St
New York, NY 10014
Phone: (212) 627-1580
Fax: (212) 627-1580