Back in the day–when Chelsea was NYC’s undisputed reigning gayborhood–watering holes like Splash (1991-2013) and Rawhide (1979-2013) dotted the bar crawl landscsape. They were joined in 1996 by the equally legendary g Lounge, whose own exit took place in 2016. Its welcoming 225 West 19th Street space soon played host to Rebar until recently, when “OMG” news broke that g Lounge was back for a second act.
Curious to know what’s new–and how much of what once worked so well has been brought back–LGBTQCommunityNews.nyc posed some questions to the managemen team, their answers yielding this revealing Q&A:
LGBTQCommuniyNews.nyc (LGBTQCommNews): What was the period of time between Rebar and the returned?
The g Lounge Management Team (g Team): “g Lounge” closed its doors in 2016 and reopened as Rebar shortly after. After several years and significant shifts in both the neighborhood and the nightlife landscape, the original spirit of g Lounge officially returned in 2025—nearly a decade later. So, it’s been about nine years between its original closing and this revival.
LGBTQCommNews: Describe the team behind the return of g Lounge—names, titles, and what they each bring to the table.
g Team: The new g Lounge is powered by a dynamic trio who blend legacy, creativity, and community vision:
Michael McGrail, Founder & Managing Partner | One of the original founders of g Lounge, Michael brings institutional memory, authenticity, and deep ties to the Chelsea community. He ensures the space honors its legacy and remains true to its roots of dignity, design, and connection.
Michael John Kay, Creative Director | With an eye for design and cultural nuance, Cavanaugh leads the creative direction—everything from interior aesthetics to brand storytelling. He bridges the nostalgia of the ’90s with the energy and inclusivity of today’s queer generation.
Juan Boria, Programming & Events Director | Juan curates the entertainment and weekly programming that define g Lounge’s rhythm. His background in nightlife, performance, and community organizing ensures every event—from drag competitions to sober socials—serves both fun and purpose.
Together, they balance reverence for history with a progressive vision for what queer nightlife can be in 2025.
LGBTQCommNews: Is it right to refer to this as a “return” for g Lounge? Is it a reimagining? G 2.0? How do we describe it?
g Team: It’s all of the above—a return, a reimagining, and an evolution. Think of it as “g Lounge 2.0.” The DNA is the same—a warm, stylish, inclusive space with soul—but the context has changed. The team isn’t recreating the past; they’re reviving the spirit of g Lounge for a new era. It’s both a tribute and a transformation: honoring legacy while reimagining what queer gathering looks like now.
LGBTQCommNews: What changes in management style, attitude, and presentation distinguish this new project from the Rebar days?
g Team: The biggest shift is in transparency and openness—both literally and culturally. The new g Lounge has opened up its layout and its attitude. The design invites visibility from the street; passersby see light, movement, and welcome, not walls.
Culturally, management has prioritized inclusivity, accessibility, and staff training that centers respect across race, gender, and identity. Where Rebar felt exclusive, g Lounge is intentional about being open, community-centered, and diverse. Programming now includes sober nights, daytime gatherings, and collaborations with LGBTQ+ organizations—signaling a more holistic, inclusive approach to queer hospitality.
LGBTQCommNews: Give us a rundown of the live entertainment and events happening on a regular basis. Who books that, and is there an overall philosophy at work?
g Team: Programming is overseen by Xavier Pineda, who curates with a philosophy of “something for everyone, every night.”
Mondays & Tuesdays: Community connection nights like Draw & Drink or Jazz Night, often alcohol-optional and centered around art and conversation.
Wednesdays & Thursdays: Drag and performance nights— Polish the Queen and Unleashed give rising drag talent a stage while resident DJs keep things lively.
Fridays & Saturdays: Dance and theme nights, often featuring guest DJs and partnerships with global queer brands like Brazil’s Treta Festa.
Sundays: Rotating community socials, industry nights, and chill gatherings.
The philosophy is simple: a full spectrum of queer experience—from quiet connection to full-on celebration.
