Drag Brunch at The Walnut Room
The incomparable Lucy Stoole hosts the legendary Chicago ladies-who-lunch spot’s drag brunch, which regularly features performances from local and national drag stars (including veterans of the sequined gauntlet that is RuPaul’s Drag Race).
And each comes with their own unique history and vibe.
Check out some of the best gay bars and clubs to experience Chicago’s queer nightlife scene.
Jeffery Pub
One of the city’s oldest gay bars, Jeffery Pub is a neighborhood institution. Other popular events include dueling pianos, themed dance nights, and karaoke hosted by Chicago cabaret legend Honey West.
La Cueva Night Club
This popular Little Village spot has their own slice of LGBTQ history — they’re known as one of the oldest Latinx drag bars in the country.
The bar is one of the last remnants of “Tower Town”, a former bohemian enclave that was known as an epicenter of LGBTQ life in Chicago.
Roscoe’s Tavern
A Northalsted essential, the welcoming Roscoe’s Tavern has been a go-to for the local LGBTQ community for more than 30 years. La Cueva is a go-to for dancing, with regular karaoke and drag events.
The venue stands out for its ever-changing decor and friendly staff, especially the attentive female bartenders. Known for its diverse crowd and late-night hours, this gay bar serves mixed cocktails that vary in price, drawing mixed reviews on value. Admission is $15.
Reserve tickets here.
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Dim Sum & Drag at Furama
Come to Furama in Uptown be treated to some delicious dumplings with your drag divas.
It features a spacious outdoor beer garden, classic jams on the jukebox, and a selection of works by local artists. This LGBTQ nightlife mecca has a bar or club on every corner, and The Closet is one of the originals. For Sunday brunch, diners can indulge in an all-you-can-eat buffet and bottomless mimosas while cheering on some of the city's best drag performers.
Reserve tickets here.
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Drag Me to Brunch at La Luna
Starting April 6, Pilsen's La Luna will be hosting a bi-monthly drag brunch with unforgettable performances from some of the city's most talented drag queens, including Stassi Dee Diamond, Ari Blakk and Vanya Adalet Diamond.
LGBTQ+ nightlife in Chicago: gay and lesbian bars, clubs, and more
Chicago’s nightlife is a lot like the city itself — inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all. The laidback spot is primarily known as a lesbian bar, but all are welcome. The $59.95 package includes food and unlimited Bloody Marys, mimosas, domestic drafts and mixed drinks—and with seatings at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, you can still enjoy brunch if you want to sleep in.
Reserve tickets here.
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Drag Brunch at Lark Restaurant & Bar
This boystown hotspot specializes in more than just woodfire pizzas—weekly drag brunches have helped the eatery gain a lively reputation in the scene.
Add in a vivacious performance or two from some of Chicago's most talented drag artists and you've got the makings of a memorable morning (or afternoon). Come for the drink specials, pool table, and outdoor patio — and stay for their famous Roscoe’s Drag Race, billed as the city’s longest-running amateur weekly drag competition. Brunch of Drag takes place on the first Sunday of every month, and each show at this Pilsen restaurant and bar features three performers and one group number.
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