Lambda Lounge Introduce
In the heart of Harlem, **Lambda Lounge** stands out as a vibrant and essential part of New York City's nightlife scene. This Black-owned gay bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a community hub, a safe space, and a destination for fun and entertainment. The lounge was founded by a married couple, Charles Hughes and Richard Solomon, who were inspired to create a space that felt welcoming and inclusive after experiencing homophobia and racism in the city's club scene. Their vision was to create a place where "uptown elegance meets downtown swag," and they have successfully done just that.
Lambda Lounge offers a cozy and trendy atmosphere that feels both intimate and exciting. It's the kind of place where you can relax on a comfortable sofa or get up and dance to live music. The bar is a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, attracting a diverse crowd of groups, tourists, and locals who appreciate a friendly and accepting environment. The venue is known for its signature cocktails and fast service, making it easy to enjoy a great night out without the hassle. It’s a place to let loose, socialize, and enjoy a lively and celebratory vibe.
The lounge's commitment to its community is a significant part of its identity. Beyond just being a bar, it serves as a transgender safe space and an important cultural institution in Harlem. Its existence fills a vital need for a Black-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly venue in a neighborhood with a rich history of Black culture. This dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment has earned it a loyal following and a reputation as a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a night of great music, excellent drinks, and a sense of belonging.
While some reviews mention drink prices, the quality of the cocktails and the overall experience are highlights. Lambda Lounge is a place where the atmosphere and the community are as important as the drinks themselves. It's a place to celebrate and connect, making it a valuable addition to New York’s diverse and dynamic nightlife.
---### Location and Accessibility
Lambda Lounge is conveniently located at **2256 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA**, placing it squarely in the vibrant and historic neighborhood of Harlem. Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard, formerly known as Seventh Avenue, is a major thoroughfare that is easily accessible from various parts of the city. The bar's location makes it a central spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the unique culture and nightlife of Harlem.
The lounge is well-served by public transportation, making it a practical destination for a night out. The 2 and 3 subway lines have stops at 135th Street, which is a short walk from the bar. Additionally, numerous bus routes run along Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard, providing even more options for getting to and from the venue safely and efficiently. This robust public transit network means you don’t have to worry about driving and can fully enjoy the bar's offerings.
A key feature of Lambda Lounge is its commitment to accessibility. The venue has a **wheelchair accessible entrance** and **wheelchair accessible restrooms**, ensuring that all guests can navigate the space with ease. This inclusivity is a vital part of the bar's mission to be a welcoming and safe space for everyone. The layout is designed to be comfortable for all patrons, and the staff is always ready to assist if needed. The bar also offers outdoor seating, which is a popular option during warmer months, providing a great way to enjoy the lively street atmosphere of Harlem.
The combination of a central, well-connected location and a focus on accessibility makes Lambda Lounge a convenient and welcoming spot for all. Its easy-to-reach address ensures that anyone looking for a fun and inclusive night can find their way there without any trouble.
---### Services Offered
Dine-in and Outdoor Seating: Lambda Lounge offers a full-service experience with both indoor and outdoor seating. Guests can choose to relax inside in the cozy, intimate setting or enjoy the outdoor patio during nice weather.
Reservations: For those planning a special night out or coming with a group, Lambda Lounge accepts reservations. It's recommended to call ahead or use their online system to ensure you have a spot, especially on busy nights.
Live Performances and Live Music: The lounge is known for its vibrant entertainment. They regularly host live music and live performances, including DJs who are popular in the LGBTQ+ community, creating an energetic and fun atmosphere for dancing and socializing.
Happy Hour: Enjoy discounted drinks and food during happy hour, making it an affordable option for a pre-dinner cocktail or an early night out. The happy hour specials are a great way to experience the bar's offerings without a full-night commitment.
The range of services offered at Lambda Lounge is designed to cater to a variety of customer needs, whether they are looking for a lively night of dancing or a relaxed evening with friends.
---### Features / Highlights
Great Cocktails and Bar Games: Lambda Lounge is known for its excellent selection of cocktails, crafted to perfection. In addition to drinks, the bar also features games, adding a fun and interactive element to the night. This combination of great drinks and playful activities ensures a memorable experience.
LGBTQ+ Friendly and Transgender Safe Space: At its core, Lambda Lounge is a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. It is a certified transgender safe space, and the inclusive atmosphere is a major highlight for all who visit. This commitment to safety and acceptance is a cornerstone of its identity.
Black-Owned Business: As a Black-owned business, Lambda Lounge is a vital part of the local community. It provides a space where Black queer culture is celebrated and uplifted, which is a rarity in the New York City bar scene.
Live Music and Performances: The bar's dedication to entertainment is a key feature. Live music and performances create a dynamic and engaging environment, perfect for a night of dancing and fun. The quality of the music and shows is often a topic of positive conversation among patrons.
Gender-Neutral Restrooms: The availability of gender-neutral restrooms is another feature that highlights the bar's commitment to inclusivity and comfort for all of its guests. This simple amenity makes a significant difference in creating a truly welcoming environment.
Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The bar's ambiance is both casual and trendy. The dim lighting, comfortable seating, and modern decor create a cozy, intimate feel. It's a place where you can feel sophisticated and relaxed at the same time.
Fast Service: Customers often praise the staff for their quick and efficient service. Even on a busy night, getting a drink is a seamless process, which is highly valued in a fast-paced city like New York.
### Contact Information
Address: 2256 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA
Phone: (646) 669-8008
---### What is worth choosing
What truly sets Lambda Lounge apart is the unique combination of its welcoming atmosphere, great drinks, and vibrant entertainment. For anyone looking for a place that feels like a home away from home, this is it. The bar's status as a **Black-owned gay bar** and **transgender safe space** is not just a label; it's a fundamental part of its mission, and it's something that is felt the moment you walk through the door. This commitment to inclusivity creates a diverse and friendly crowd, making it an ideal place to meet new people or enjoy a night out with friends.
The drinks are a major draw. The **great cocktails** are a highlight, and the selection of beer, wine, and hard liquor ensures that there's something for every taste. The **happy hour** specials are particularly worth choosing, as they provide a great opportunity to sample the menu at a more affordable price point. While some patrons have noted that the regular prices can be a bit high, the quality and the experience often justify the cost. The fast service ensures you spend more time enjoying the night and less time waiting in line.
Finally, the live entertainment is a key reason to choose Lambda Lounge. The **live music** and **live performances**, including a roster of popular LGBTQ+ DJs, create an electric and celebratory atmosphere. It's a place where you can dance the night away, catch up with friends, and feel a part of a larger community. The combination of a top-tier bar experience and a genuine commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and fun environment makes Lambda Lounge an essential part of New York City's nightlife. It is a place that truly stands out in a crowded market and is worth visiting for a night that feels both special and authentic.
Lambda Lounge Details
From the business
- Identifies as Black-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
- Takeout
Highlights
- Bar games
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Live music
- Live performances
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Dancing
- Food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Wine
Dining options
- Seating
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Lambda Lounge Photos










Lambda Lounge Location
Lambda Lounge
2256 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027, USA
Lambda Lounge Reviews
pricetipstarshookahcashpay
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Terrible place to go too. Over price drinks 🍹, not social, terrible music 🎼 & young skool atmosphere. This place is for the young children 🧒 not for the older generation. The reason I rate this place a one, is because it was free to get in. And that will be my last time going. $12.00 for a rum 🍹 and coke is crazy. If you want to get ripped off, the only thing you need to do is step outside the bar in that neighborhood. Why go into the bar to get ripped off.
May 11 · Jonathan PrinceI recently visited this establishment for the first time and was underwhelmed by the experience, which will prevent me from returning. Customer service is paramount in business, and this establishment falls short in that area. The hookah was subpar, and spending over $50 on a burnt-out product was disappointing. When I requested assistance from the waiter, I was informed that I would need to purchase another hookah, and the waiter's combative demeanor was unacceptable.
June 28 · Brandon JacksonI’ve been here twice and was very disappointed. I love the music and atmosphere but what’s most disappointing is the drink cost and the fact that they cut their liquor. I ordered two Vodka Cranberries and it tasted like pure juice. I didn’t get tipsy at all. If they had better drinks I wouldGive a different rate.
March 07 · AMGT’was a bit dead on a Sunday night, but I enjoyed my time here. I come for the great music and hookah, they never disappoint. The drinks are always great with friendly bartenders, this night was no exception. A bit pricey but excellent quality and strength. Two doubles and I was good for the night. Usually it’s a guy making the hookah on the weekend and he does an excellent job. This visit it was a younger female and the hookah was weak with not a lot of drag (though the flavor was pleasant). I asked for blueberry mint and she brought me the hookah saying that she added a bit of peach as well (but peach was all I tasted). Probably wouldn’t order hookah again if she’s the one making them, but everything else was great.
March 23 · Hak BénThey should hire me as a promoter 😆 but great spot for friends to grab a drink and hang.
September 18 · Damone Thomas
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