The Little Gay Pub

I was looking long and hard for a decent bar in Philly with good music and quality drinks. Granted it was a Wednesday and Thursday, but every recommended spot ended up being a glorified gastropub, basically a restaurant with a tiny bar attached. A few places were packed and did not feel welcoming. So I figured why not try The Little Gay Pub. The moment I walked in, the decor stood out with a lot of intricate touches, and the music was much more my style. I was greeted right away by the bar staff and ordered two drinks. They were a bit small, but the taste and strength more than made up for it. A little pricey, but not unreasonable at all because the cocktails were genuinely worth it. I ended up enjoying a second round and then a third while the music kept the vibe going strong. Before heading out, I asked the bartenders if they had recommendations for a bar with live music. They gave me two suggestions nearby that I had never been to, and both turned out to be excellent. I will definitely be coming back here the next time I am in town. This place was easily the best bar experience I had all week.

Having been to the one in DC, I decided to check this one out. This one is much bigger than the DC one. I liked the vibes and atmosphere, from the decor to the inviting energy. It took a while for a bartender to even take our group’s order (we were standing at the bar for around 15-20 minutes). All the bartenders were busy talking to other patrons who already got their drinks already. Drink prices are expensive for Philly! The upstairs tend to be less bus than the downstairs area. It’s okay, not the best gay bar I’ve been to in Philly. It doesn’t feel inviting of the entire LGBTQIA+ community.

This is my new spot! I absolutely love the decor! The bartenders are super-friendly! The second floor patio is so cute to hang out on.

Such a lovely place! The bartenders were so friendly and patient with my English. The bar is beautifully decorated and the vibe is amazing. It's a gem for tourists looking for a welcoming spot. Highly recommended!

TLDR: ESTABLISHMENT IS RACIST. Visiting from Michigan for a concert. Stopped by this establishment with a friend because they told me it was a cute place that had just opened up. The second we stepped inside the bouncer gave us a dirty look. I provided my ID which is a valid REAL ID from Michigan and the bouncer looked at it for 5 seconds and denied it claiming it was fake. Didn’t even use a scanner like the multiple other gay bars in the area use. Didn’t ask me any questions or anything else. I tried showing him GOVERNMENT documents on my phone to prove that it wasn’t because I only ever carry my ID and a card with me and he would not accept it even though the documents proved it wasn’t fake. Claimed that it was fake "because it’s from Michigan". Took one look around the establishment and realized it was because my friend and I weren’t their target demographic for their bar IYKWIM. POC do not support this business. Seems like a lot of people have had the same issue.

Little Gay Pub is an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in, the energy is warm, welcoming, and unapologetically fun. Huge shoutout to Mel —she always genuinely checks in and asks how life is going, which is a true reflection of the character and friendliness of the staff at LGP. The drinks are great, the vibe is incredible, and the rooftop deck (the only one in the Philly Gayborhood may I add) is an absolute standout. It’s a space where everyone belongs, and I am sure it is soon (if not already) going to be a staple of Philly nightlife!

Everything was great, until it wasn't. Drinks were great, bathrooms clean, but it was odd that there was no bar seating. When a club requires bouncers, door people don't have to be polite. This club does not need bouncers, they were there to check ID. Upon leaving, two door people doing nothing but talking to each other did have time to sour the entire visit with their rudeness. I don't think I will be back.