g Lounge, a longtime staple of New York City’s LGBTQ+ nightlife since 1996, has officially reopened at 225 West 19th Street under ““new”” ownership. The venue, which officially closed in 2016, then, then reopened in 2017 as Rebar, has been restored by a new partnership formed by Michael McGrail, the only remaining partner in the original venture after the others were “bought out” by his husband (and partner of 36 years), Michael John Kay, and nightlife professional Juan Boria – known, respectively, as Michael, Michael John and Juan.
The ownership transfer was completed in October 2024, with a reimagining of the floorplan, some esthetic changes and a rebrand to g Lounge taking place over several months. The new owners have invested in essential updates including a new sound system and lighting, reconfigured the use of the space with comfort in mind, adding stylish furniture in place of hard wood benches Use of the space has also been reimagined by adding a designated dancefloor and relocating the DJ booth – which had been tucked away in a corner – putting it front and center in the space, a real game-changer.
“g Lounge was always about making people feel at home,” said Michael (McGrail). “After nearly a decade, we’re thrilled to bring that original feeling — and that legacy — back to Chelsea.”
The new management team is focused on building community through a dynamic lineup of events, including weekly drag shows like the competition Polish the Queen and Unleashed, rotating DJs, and themed parties such as Brazil’s #1 LGBTQ+ event Treta Festa. Upcoming programming also includes daytime events like Draw and Drink, sober gatherings like Jazz Night, political panels, creative workshops, and dedicated nights for the trans and nonbinary communities.
They serve an assortment of flavors for HighNoon and White Claw, pizza, Happy hour deals Sunday-Tuesday until 2AM and Wednesday-Saturday until 9PM, an assortment of beers and wines, crafted cocktails like the gPaloma and gTini, and crafted mocktails made by Ritual: Zero Proof.
“g Lounge isn’t just a space to party,” said Juan. “It’s a space to connect, to grow, and to celebrate who we are—together.”
Originally opened in 1996, with its upscale design signature “oval” bar, g Lounge was an instant success, and became known as a comfortable, stylish gathering space for the LGBTQ+ community. Michael McGrail, who served as general manager during its original run, stayed involved in the business during its time as Rebar but took on a less active role as the venue changed direction. In recent years, the bar experienced operational difficulties and financial decline, before its previous management announced plans to close. Michael John and Juan stepped in to purchase full ownership and restore the brand.
“Because the original g Lounge was built for and by members of the gay community in New York City’s unapologetically gay Chelsea neighborhood, it was an opportunity to bring gay nightlife out of the dark recesses it formerly held and into a setting that reflected the dignity it deserved,” say Michael. Michael John quickly adds, “And today, the g Lounge we’re building is more than a bar — it’s a venue curated for the community that puts “safe space” at the center of every decision.”
Known as one of New York City’s most iconic gay bars, G Lounge—also referred to as GBar—was a cornerstone of Chelsea’s LGBTQ+ nightlife from 1996 to 2016. Sleek, sexy, and sophisticated, the venue attracted a diverse mix of locals, tourists, and celebrities, with frequent sightings of Anderson Cooper, RuPaul, Lance Bass, and Broadway stars. A cultural hub during the height of Chelsea’s reign as the city’s gay epicenter, G Lounge was featured in numerous media projects and served as inspiration for scenes in shows like Queer as Folk and Sex and the City. More than just a bar, it became a defining space for queer expression, nightlife, and connection, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence New York’s LGBTQ+ culture today.
••••• Message Center••••
Follow us on social media: Facebook • Instagram • Threads • X • Bluesky • Tiktok • Reddit
Looking for news and events beyond NYC? Finding Connecticut and Finding The Hudson Valley have the latest happenings just north of the city!
Let’s create with Victory Designs
Need help with your creative needs? Our team has 20+ years of experience with Adobe, Shopify, and WordPress, and we offer affordable graphic design and web services. Let Victory Designs assist you with bringing your ideas to life.
Share your New York City experiences on instagram #findingnewyorkcity
Save on CBD!
My name is Jillian, and I am the editor here at Finding New York City. When I came across New England Hemp Farm a few years ago, I had recently had my ankle fused. New England Hemp Farm’s Sports Relief Rub and 500 MG Full Spectrum CBD Oil have helped with everyday and weather pain.
Finding quality products that can improve your day-to-day life can be tough, but with New England Hemp Farm, getting a good night’s sleep or relieving your pain and anxiety has never been easier. Plus, using our code NYC35, you’ll save 35% on your first purchase. Let us help you find relief and savings with New England Hemp Farm.
Products we use here at Finding New York City include Sports Relief Rub • 500 MG Full Spectrum CBD Oil • Pet Drops• Pet Treats