Best Lesbian Bars Around the World

For too many years, the lesbian bar suffered from a tragic narrative: it was disappearing. The once-ubiquitous venue found in almost every city and small town was no longer as necessary as it used to be, due to various factors, both good and bad. However, the enormous cost of operating a small business in America contributed significantly to this decline. The lesbian bar was so close to extinction in the US that the Lesbian Bar Project emerged in 2020 to help protect the remaining spaces through fundraising and awareness.

A Renaissance of Lesbian Bars

The effort effectively spotlighted the importance of these community-based watering holes, allowing their renaissance to flourish. Since then, several new sapphic spaces have opened across the US and the world. For a generation that only encountered lesbian bars as sacred spaces at risk of vanishing, this resurgence is exhilarating. Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z queer women recognized the need for women-centered queer bars to entertain and sustain the lesbian community, offering chic cocktails, mocktails, social media-friendly decor, and engaging programming to compete with the allure of screen time.

Inclusivity and Community in Today’s Lesbian Bars

Today’s best lesbian bars are inclusive to trans and nonbinary folks, offering non-alcoholic drink options and being accessible to all who feel a sense of belonging. The term “lesbian” is embraced proudly, reflecting a marginalized yet celebrated identity that is open and welcoming.

Greatest Lesbian Bars Around the World

We have gathered some of the most remarkable lesbian bars globally. From a historic pub in San Francisco to a lively dive in Amsterdam and hidden gems in Tokyo, these venues are recommended by locals and travelers seeking queer community worldwide. Although not every region may be represented, this serves as a reminder of the treasure trove of lesbian hangouts and safe spaces that often remain under the radar, protecting queer folks where they need it most.

North America

The Back Door

Bloomington, Indiana

The Back Door features iconic zebra-print walls, burlesque shows, and clever drink names (e.g., “Citron on My Face”). Close to the University of Indiana, it has become a second home to a decade’s worth of queer students and community members. Recognized as a safe space for lesbians, The Back Door opened in 2013, creating an inviting atmosphere for the local LGBTQ+ community.

Address: The Back Door, 207 S College Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States

Nobody’s Darling

Chicago

Nobody’s Darling, a Black-owned bar, opened in Andersonville in September 2021, providing a long-awaited answer to the loneliness felt during the pandemic. This bar allows locals to build community over upscale cocktails, dance on weekends, and enjoy the summer on its cozy patio, marking it as a unique lesbian bar experience in Chicago.

Address: Nobody’s Darling, 1744 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

The Lady’s Room

Largo, Florida

The Lady’s Room, Florida’s only lesbian bar, creates a vibrant atmosphere for line dancing, drag shows, and sports viewing parties. Opened in 2022, it fills an essential void in a state noted for its increasing hostility towards LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering a warm and welcoming environment for all patrons.

Address: The Lady’s Room, 9057 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33771, United States

Europe

Cafe Saarein

Amsterdam

Cafe Saarein has attracted lesbians in Amsterdam since 1978, offering a tri-level space to mingle, play pool, or enjoy cocktails with the welcoming bartenders. This local sapphic pub grants patrons a chance to feel part of the majority in a safe environment while enjoying great conversations.

Address: Cafe Saarein, Elandsstraat 119-HS, 1016 RX Amsterdam, Netherlands

Beaver Cooperativa

Athens

Beaver Coop provides a fantastic all-day space with coffee and vegan treats by day, and beer and disco until late. Community owned, its cozy environment encourages gathering for good drinks and great conversations.

Address: Beaver Cooperativa, Megalou Vasileiou 46α, Athina 118 54, Greece

Asia

L’Paradis Lesbian Bar

Hong Kong

L’Paradis remains one of the few lesbian spots in Hong Kong, offering a laid-back atmosphere for patrons to relax, socialize, and enjoy drinking games. The bar provides a welcoming space with a vibrant ambiance, ensuring everyone feels included and entertained.

Address: L’Paradis Lesbian Bar, 5/F, Cameron Centre, 57-59 Chatham Rd S, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Club Ace

Seoul

Club Ace in Hongdae is dedicated to women-centric fun, known for its vibrant atmosphere and privacy-focused policy. This venue offers an enticing environment for community-building and a good time without the need for photographs or documentation.

Address: 105 Eulji-ro, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

South America

Sabor a Mi

Santiago

Sabor a Mi has thrived in Santiago’s Bellavista neighborhood since 2004, combining a restaurant and bar atmosphere with live music and vibrant nightlife. It’s a place to eat, sing karaoke and dance, reflecting a lively LGBTQ+ scene in Chile.

Address: Sabor a mi, Antonia López de Bello 107, Recoleta, Región Metropolitana, Chile