New York City, known as the Big Apple, is the city that never sleeps, and if you find yourself wandering its streets — full of Broadway show buzz and warmth from an Aperol spritz — you might be looking for your next spot. The latest late night in New York is sure to be found in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, and after all the partying is done, it’s a relief that the delis are open 24/7.

The Flaming Saddles Saloon offers perhaps the most dynamic and intriguing combination of American flags and assless chaps. It’s the epitome of the positive, inclusive changes coming to the Queer bar industry in New York, as it relates to LGBTQIA+ representation, emitting a fusion of Queer joy and Western charm, and featuring live performers each night. Its world-famous Frito pie is also a must-try. 

Also in Hell’s Kitchen is Industry, which has been pegged as the best Gay bar in the city, an all-inclusive late-night club with a pulsing disco ball and nightly shows. Nearby is the 9th Avenue Saloon, which locals have frequented for years. For those interested in learning the history of Pride (or just the where to get a good cup of coffee), chat up one of the regulars at the bar who have been coming for years. You’ll be sure to leave with a wonderful bit of Queer history.

 Crossing the water to Brooklyn — the hippest neighborhood that has become a haven for Queer creatives, cultural diversity, and LGBTQIA+ independence — is worth the trip.

The Desert 5 Spot is more of an off-brand, teenage version of Flaming Saddles, and is one of the only such places open late on Sunday. It’s best to grab tickets early if you want to engage in line dancing, which seems to have taken the country by storm in recent years, as they sell out days in advance.

            What’s NYC’s nightlife like as a Queer native? Mitchell, a regular at Flaming Saddles, told the SGN that NYC’s Gay scene has no limits. While the city gets a bad rap for being “dirty,” Mitchell said the LGBTQIA+ community is flourishing.

“You can find a place to twirl wherever you're at. I mean, it's all about the vibe right?” he said. “What's your mission for the evening? You want to twirl with your girls? Do you want to go get a boy?”