monday night gay bars los angeles

Your Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles's Best Gay Bars: MONDAY NIGHT EDITION

So, you're looking for the hottest LGBTQ+ spots in Los Angeles, specifically on a Monday night? You've come to the right place! Forget those sleepy start-of-the-week vibes. In LA, Monday can be just as fabulous as Friday. We're diving into a curated list of bars and clubs that keep the energy high, the drinks flowing, and the good times rolling, even when the weekend is a distant memory.

Silver Lake Sensations: Where Cool Meets Community

Let's kick things off in Silver Lake, a neighborhood synonymous with artistic flair and a strong sense of community. While some legendary spots have closed their doors, the spirit of Silver Lake's gay nightlife is alive and well.

Akbar: The Stylish Staple

Akbar is a longtime Silver Lake institution, known for its stylish, mixed-orientation crowd. What makes it special? It's a place where everyone feels welcome, from the trendsetters to the locals. The vibe is eclectic and always interesting, drawing revelers from Echo Park, Highland Park, and beyond. With reasonably priced drinks and a packed monthly calendar, you'll find recurring parties, game nights, and unique events like "Bears in Space," a popular outdoor DJ series during the warmer months.

West Hollywood Wonders: The Heart of LA's Gay Scene

No exploration of LA's gay nightlife is complete without venturing into West Hollywood, or WeHo, the undisputed heart of the city's LGBTQ+ scene. From legendary institutions to trendy newcomers, WeHo offers something for everyone.

The Abbey: A Must-Experience Landmark

Let's be real: you can't talk about WeHo gay bars without mentioning The Abbey. This sprawling complex is a veritable playground for the LGBTQ+ community. It's known for its spacious interior, lively patio, and, of course, those legendary drag brunch shows. The Abbey is the place to be for people-watching, celeb spotting, and enjoying well-crafted cocktails and surprisingly good bar food. Remember when The Abbey famously banned bachelorette parties until marriage equality was achieved? That move cemented their status as a true champion of the community. And speaking of drinks, don't miss the gin-based Mr. Clutch or the Haterade - perfect for keeping the party going all night.

Hi Tops: Sports, Suds, and Socializing

Looking for a more laid-back vibe? Hi Tops is a sports bar with a distinctly queer twist. This is *the* spot to catch a game while surrounded by a friendly and inclusive crowd. Just be warned: game days can get packed! But don't worry, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Hi Tops, including Tuesday night trivia, Wednesday's queer rock and post-punk music nights, and live DJs on weekends.

Or Bar: Cocktails and Class in Boystown

Taking over the old Gold Coast space, Or Bar offers a more sophisticated experience. This cocktail lounge exudes glamour with its glittering chandelier and plush banquettes. While the drinks might be a bit pricier than elsewhere in Boystown, the well-made cocktails and handsome crowd make it worth the splurge. For birthdays and special occasions, the bartenders and managers go above and beyond to make sure you feel welcome, even creating custom drinks. During the day, Or Bar transforms into a coffee shop, offering a comfortable workspace for those who need to get things done.

Fiesta Cantina: Margaritas and Mexican Fiesta

Fiesta Cantina is a popular spot that knows how to throw a party, especially during their two happy hour periods! With a main floor and a rooftop deck, there's plenty of space to mingle, dance, and enjoy solid Mexican food. Keep an eye out for the walking bartenders offering shot specials. For the best deal, order one of the massive Mega Margaritas, which are also discounted during happy hour.

Beaches Weho: Miami Vibes in LA

Need a dose of South Beach in West Hollywood? Beaches Weho delivers with its Miami disco vibes. This tiny but mighty nightclub and lounge is the perfect place to dance the night away. And if you get hungry, they serve up delicious Cuban-inspired dishes like Cuban nachos and pan con lechon.

Mother Lode: The Enduring Dive

Sometimes, you just want a no-frills, down-to-earth spot to grab a drink. Mother Lode is a West Hollywood staple that has stood the test of time. Balancing out its more stylized neighbors with its low-key dive bar atmosphere, Mother Lode offers sturdy drinks and a crowd that tends to be a little older.

Downtown LA Diversions: A Growing Scene

While West Hollywood and Silver Lake tend to dominate the conversation about gay nightlife in LA, Downtown LA (DTLA) is steadily building its own scene.

Precinct: A Bourbon Street Vibe

Precinct is an expansive, 8,000-square-foot space that feels more like Bourbon Street than Downtown LA. The venue features a bar, dance floor, performance space, and a wrap-around terrace with stunning views. They also host a popular ticketed drag brunch on Sunday afternoons.

New Jalisco Bar: Latin Flavor and Cheap Drinks

For a taste of Latin flavor and incredibly cheap drinks, head to the New Jalisco Bar. This Downtown institution boasts a raucous dance floor, regular drag and strip shows, and a largely local clientele. You're guaranteed a night of uninhibited fun, no matter who you are or where you're from.

Kiso: The New Kid on the Block

Opened in December, Kiso is a self-proclaimed gay bar that welcomes queer folks of all kinds. With two bars, a lounge area, and a dance floor, there's plenty of space to relax and have fun. Kiso also has a stacked weekly lineup of events, including drag shows on Wednesday nights, a Sunday Funday afternoon, and themed dance parties on weekends. And it's within stumbling distance of both the New Jalisco and Precinct, making it perfect for a bar crawl.

Don't Forget These Honorable Mentions!

While the above are excellent choices for a Monday night, keep these spots in mind for other nights of the week or for different vibes:

The Bottom Line: LA's Gay Nightlife is Always Thriving

Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse gay nightlife scene that caters to every taste and preference. Whether you're looking for a high-energy nightclub, a laid-back dive bar, or a sophisticated cocktail lounge, you'll find it in LA. So, get out there and explore! Remember to check the individual bar's website or social media for specific Monday night events and specials. Cheers!