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Monster Bar
Bars

Monster Bar

Serving the LGBT community since 1970!

New York, USA
3.6
585 reviews

Neighbourhood

New York

Category

Bars

Vibe

Cocktails, Drag Show +2

Official website

About Monster Bar

Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City's West Village, The Manhattan Monster Bar is an iconic gay nightclub that has been a staple of the LGBTQ community for decades. Known for its rich history and diverse range of entertainment, The Monster offers a unique experience that caters to a wide audience. Upon entering, patrons are greeted by the nostalgic ambiance of the 360 piano bar upstairs, where the sounds of show tunes fill the air. The lively atmosphere is further enhanced by the performances of drag queens, who bring both glamour and humor to the venue. For those looking to dance the night away, the downstairs nightclub pulses with energy, featuring a mix of reggaeton, salsa, merengue, and the latest hits. The Monster is renowned for its array of events, from the high-energy Spunk Saturdays to the more relaxed Disco Tea Dance on Sundays with the fabulous Lady Bunny. The venue also hosts drag competitions, offering a platform for emerging talent in the drag scene. Its diverse lineup ensures that there's something for everyone, whether you're looking to party, enjoy a drink, or simply be a part of the vibrant local community.

What to expect

Two classic West Village experiences in one: show tunes and piano-bar energy upstairs, with a livelier dance floor downstairs.

Vibes

Good to know

Practical tips before you visit

Upstairs and downstairs can feel like completely different venues.
The basement is the louder, more dance-focused space.
It is close to Christopher Street and the Stonewall National Monument area.

Gallery

Location

Monster Bar

The Monster, Grove Street, NYC, NY, USA

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WhereIs.Gay rating

3.9

585 reviews

Overall rating across Google Maps.

Rating by source

  • WhereIs.Gay
    3.6
  • Google Maps
    3.9

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Featured Google Maps reviews

Selected by Google Maps. Read more reviews on Google Maps.

Clint Borzoni
Clint Borzoni

4 months ago

My favorite gay bar. Upstairs has a piano area that’s perfect for a more relaxed, chill night, while downstairs is the complete opposite with dancing, drag, go-go dancers, and a party atmosphere. The crowd is eclectic and feels much less pretentious than a lot of Hell’s Kitchen spots, which makes it easier to just enjoy yourself. It strikes a good balance depending on what kind of night you want.

Review from Google Maps

Fatima Gaskin
Fatima Gaskin

2 years ago

Went here after the NYGMC performance at the Skirbull theater on Saturday and had so much fun! My friend introduced me to some choir members and they were super friendly and sang some with the piano performer. The bartenders were very attentive I didn’t have long to wait on any drinks. I was told there was a downstairs but I didn’t even go I was having too much fun singing along to songs. There is a coat check if you want to use it. The bathrooms did have a fairly long wait but the facilities were decently cleaned and usable. I would go again when I come to town. It was fun!

Review from Google Maps

Nicole Kaczmarski
Nicole Kaczmarski

2 months ago

Worst place on the planet. Basically people approaching you downstairs offering their bodies for money: What a disgusting establishment to the community. On top of that.. the rudeness is off the charts. Avoid this place. There’s plenty of other places to go in nyc. I would NOT give a star if I could and still submit this review.

Review from Google Maps

Mark Cruz
Mark Cruz

8 months ago

Fun piano bar on the first floor, disco in the basement. Every time we go here we have a great time. It’s so much fun. We loved the time we caught Lady Bunny spinning downstairs. The staff is great. Can’t wait to be back.

Review from Google Maps

Maurice Battle
Maurice Battle

7 months ago

Piano Bar open mic Go-Go boys delicious tasting alcohol beverages

Review from Google Maps

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Listing details

Last updated
12 September 2026
Listed in
New York › United States
Data from
WhereIs.Gay community, the venue and Google