Bengaluru's Queer-Friendly Restaurants Trail
By Slurrp Desk
Bengaluru, known as the Silicon Valley of India, is also fast becoming one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country. With a thriving queer community and growing social acceptance, there are specific restaurants, cafes and bars that cater specifically to the needs of LGBTQ patrons. However, there are a growing number of restaurants, bars and clubs in Bengaluru where people can freely express themselves without fear of judgement.
Urban Solace
Urban Solace is more than just your average cafe; it has established itself as an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community in Bengaluru. Situated in Ulsoor, this cosy establishment has been at the forefront of organising drag queen events as well as hosting the first Queer & Allies Art Festival in the city. Urban Solace strives to be a voice for inclusivity through their support of queer artists while offering delectable food options that cater to all tastes.Kitty Ko
Kitty Ko supports the LGBTQIA+ community in Bengaluru by hosting vibrant events with drag queens and other queer artists. Every Thursday night at 9 pm, Kitty Ko holds a lively drag queen night featuring a performance by a drag queen artist accompanied by another LGBTQIA+ entertainer. The cafe aims to provide a safe and inclusive space for the queer community through these events while also educating and entertaining patrons. The decor, ambience and delicious food and drinks make Kitty Ko a popular spot for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, especially on drag queen nights which attract large, enthusiastic crowds.Arbor Brewing Company
This microbrewery in Koramangala is a favourite LGBTQ hangout. They brew their own craft beers on-site and have a large menu of comfort food and appetizers. The space aims to provide a safe, judgement-free environment for all. The staff is attentive and welcoming to patrons of all backgrounds. Arbor Brewing Company has become a popular spot for the LGBTQ community to relax, socialise and simply be themselves over a pint of craft beer.Chaifee Café
Chaifee Cafe is an LGBTQ-friendly space located in Banashankari, Bengaluru. In addition to a variety of food options like momos, samosas, pasta and sandwiches, Chaifee offers two private movie screens, board games and a mini library, providing a relaxed ambience for customers. The cafe aims to satisfy all kinds of hunger pangs with small bites, full meals and unique dishes like chocolate pani puri and lotus ice cream sandwiches. The reasonably priced menu and inclusive atmosphere make Chaifee a popular hangout for people of all backgrounds.Cafe Treat
Pride Café is a food truck launched by the Solidarity Foundation to empower the LGBTQIA+ community. The café aims to provide jobs and a safe space for queer individuals while also educating the public through interaction. With the goal of expanding to more locations, Pride Café currently operates on the premises of WeWork Galaxy in central Bengaluru. The café was inaugurated by theatre actress Arundathi Nag and drag queen Alex Matthew, and is the brainchild of Solidarity Foundation's executive director Shubha Chacko. It hopes to serve as a sustainable business close to the heart of Bengaluru's queer community.Toit Brewpub
“When you talk about beers and breweries, the first place that comes to my mind is Toit,” says Himaja, “Toit is my all-time favourite place, and it's the oldest brewery in Bangalore, having been established in 2010. It holds a special place in my heart because it was where I had my very first beer. I absolutely love everything about Toit, from its incredible beers and the inviting ambience to the lively vibe and delicious food. Even after all these years, Toit remains the best brewery in my opinion. It is undoubtedly one of the must-visit places in Bangalore. Among their extensive beer selection, my personal favourites are the Basmati Blonde and Tin Tin Toit.”
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