Four LGBT hangouts for a kiki in Paris
Paris is well known for housing one of the largest LGBT communities in Europe. Every summer, the French capital throws a major pride celebration, and its city hall staunchly supports the LGBT community, by providing a host of services and battling discrimination.
If you’re new to town, chances are you may be wondering where to find the best French hotspots for your community. No worries, we’re here to help!
In the heart of Paris lies the iconic Le Marais neighborhood in the 4th arrondissement, where many of the city’s LGBT bars and clubs are located.
Here’s a short selection of some of our personal favorites.
La Mutinerie: a bar for femmes and feminists
→ 176-178 Rue Saint-Martin, Paris 75003 – Open from 5 pm to 1:30 am
This iconic LGBT hangout was created by and for lesbian and transgender women. In addition to being a bar, La Mutinerie also organizes a variety of social events, including LGBT speed dating, DJ sets, dance lessons, and group therapy.
La Mutinerie is a place for partying and politics, and only collaborates with LGBT artists and creators. Prices here are quite cheap for Paris, and there’s no entry fee to most events.
Tata Burger: the must-try burgers in Le Marais
→ 54 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, Paris 75004 – Open from 12am to 1am
You can find this LGBT restaurant in Le Marais, steps away from City Hall. As the name may tell you, they’re especially known for their burgers, but do check out their cocktail menu, too!
The food here is simple, tasty, and not too pricey. Have fun reading each burger’s name–the French have a particular kind of humor — such as l’hétéro classic (”the classic hetero”).
Tata Burger has the most welcoming staff, and the decoration screams a certain je ne sais quoi. They even organize cabaret and drag shows from time to time, so be on the lookout!
Les Mots à la Bouche: the oldest gay library in Paris
→ 37 Rue Saint-Ambroise, Paris 75011 – Open from 10:30am to 7:30pm
If you’d like to practice reading in French, finding LGBT reads may not be as easy as you’d think, despite it being 2023. But that’s where Les Mots à la Bouche comes to the rescue!
Since 1980, this bookstore has offered a large selection of gay novels and essays. In addition, authors are regularly invited to come speak about their craft.
The perfect place to visit if you’d like to go beyond what’s offered at the local FNAC, all while supporting independent bookstores.
Soirée Purple: it’s gonna be a banger!
→ For upcoming events visit La Purple Paris.
Whether it's spending your Saturday evening partying on a boat or within a mythical Parisian dance club, one night à La Purple with your friends is a must-do!
Getting in won't be cheap (20 €), but trust us on this: the setting is swagged out, the music is bangin’, and you’re guaranteed an evening of sweet, sweet memories. If you book early, you may benefit from the early bird discount (15 €). There’s usually a mini-drag show as well. Be sure to explore the upcoming events listed on La Purple’s website and Instagram, and quickly–events tend to get booked fast.
Whether you decide on visiting one or all of these fun finds, you’re in for a guaranteed treat! Let us know of any other LGBT haunts you think readers should know about in the comments.
Allez, amuse-toi bien !
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