There is a strong LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) community in Richmond, Virginia. There is the Gay Community Center of Richmond whose mission is to promote diversity and inclusion in the state. The city's VA Pride organization puts on a yearly pride festival. Richmond also has numerous gay and LGBT-friendly bars and nightclubs, including Barcode, Godfreys and the Artist Underground Cafe.
Barcode calls itself "Richmond's hottest gay club and restaurant." By day, it's a popular spot serving appetizers, burgers and sandwiches to professionals on their lunch break. By night, it attracts gay and straight crowds looking to socialize in a neighborhood-style pub and enjoy the weekday happy hours from 4 to 8 p.m. It does not have a dance floor, but has other sources of entertainment, like Karaoke Sundays, Martini Thursdays and Jukebox Wednesdays. Barcode also has an outdoor patio open all year long. Barcode is open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays and from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends.
Barcode
6 E. Grace St.
Richmond, VA 23219
804-648-2040
barcodeva.org
Godfreys Restaurant and Nightclub attracts a diverse crowd of gay and straight regulars and is also a popular hangout for college students. It is known for its Sunday brunches where diners are treated to a drag show and its DJ and dancing scene Wednesday through Sunday nights. The bar opens its doors to those 18 years and older, but you must be 21 to drink. Dinner options include penne gorgonzola and parmesan crusted pork chop, and appetizers like bruschetta and quesadillas.
Godfreys Restaurant and Nightclub
308 East Grace St.
Richmond, VA 23219
804-648-3957
godfreysva.com
This alternative hang-out is a combination bar, cafe, art gallery and "home-away-from-home." It is located in the basement of the Stuart Apartment Building. Although there are no bright lights or dance floor, it has weekly drag shows. Other entertainment includes karaoke, poker and live music. It has a full bar and serves gourmet coffee, homemade pizza, deserts and a buffet-style Sunday brunch. The Cafe also offers poetry readings and showcases local student art. There is also a student discount on menu items.
Artist Underground Cafe
1600 Monument Ave.
Basement Stuart Court Apartments
Richmond, VA 23220
804-213-0185
sites.google.com/site/artistundergroundcafe
