The ritz gay club

The bathrooms are being remodeled, and the outdoor patio is being legalized and outfitted with seating and table service. Themed nights will begin rolling out in July, and Hanninen is actively partnering with local nonprofit organizations to create community-focused programming outside of traditional nightlife hours.

THE RITZ Updated August

The Ritz Bar and Lounge, a cornerstone of New York City’s queer nightlife, has reopened in Hell’s Kitchen after a sweeping renovation and change in ownership. Skip to content. Vacationer Magazine's writing staff works hard to bring you all the latest LGBTQ travel articles to help inspire and inform.

Hanninen is the majority owner, and a partner will be onsite during business hours to oversee operations and ensure accountability. g Lounge Reborn Longtime New Yorkers will remember g Lounge (originally known simply as “g”) opening in under the management of.

Loading Comments Email Required Name Required Website. Follow the Ritz on Instagram and keep up with news and events. Here’s the thing: the 14 bars mentioned above barely scratch the surface of New York’s vibrant, ever-fluctuating queer scene.

Entertainment New York. May 29, Vacationer Staff. Once a go-to spot for the queer community, The Ritz has faced scrutiny in recent years, particularly following a high-profile case that concluded in February. A new detailed security plan—already approved by the State Liquor Authority—is being implemented in partnership with a professional security company.

But before it fell from grace, The Ritz was a nightlife powerhouse—home to two dance floors and three bars when fully activated—and regularly drew A-list clientele, including Lady Gaga, Madonna, Christina Aguilera, and Andy Cohen. The venue also plans to operate extended hours from 4 PM to 4 AM and introduce appetizers to its offerings, creating a more versatile experience that bridges the gap between daytime lounge and nighttime club.

Behind the bar, a new layout will allow for faster, more efficient service, and a new DJ booth and larger stage will anchor the performance space. And, just in time for Pride, two of Manhattan’s infamous gay bars — the Ritz and g Lounge – have a new lease on nightlife.

Guide to The Ritz Bar and Lounge, Gay Bar in New York - rating, atmosphere, working hours, address, map, directions and nearby LGBTQ+ friendly venues. Under new ownership, the iconic venue is getting a much-needed reset, and celebrated with a grand re-opening on May 17th.

Programming is also getting a full revamp. The transformation includes a full interior refresh—new ambient lighting in the bar and dance floor, upgraded HVAC systems, proper bathroom ventilation, new draft beer lines, and an entirely redesigned dancefloor with updated flooring, benches, and integrated visual lighting.

To improve safety and guest experience, the entire staff is undergoing retraining in TIPS alcohol certification, sexual harassment prevention, and food and beverage protection.