Static Lounge

When Static Lounge (28-43 Steinway St, StaticLoungeNYC.com) in Astoria announced that it was re-opening as a gay bar, some wondered how exclusively gay the new place would actually be. The previously straight venue, which was recently bought by new partners, announced on its Facebook page that it would be a “new gay bar that’s not totally gay” and didn’t seem to be closing for that long in order to change sexual orientation. Well, it turns out that “not totally gay” actually means “still pretty darn gay.”

“The new Static Lounge is exclusively gay seven nights a week,” explains Andrew Tsaousis, a partner in the new bar. “The tag line refers to our unique team of owners, both straight and gay, who believe that diversity is only an excuse for celebration!”

The large, open space of Static Lounge features exposed brick, candles and atmospheric lighting, which lends itself to a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere. A bar runs across the main floor and there is also a small stage for performances and cabaret acts. In fact, with some Broadway producers now on the bar’s ownership team, another change that should be noticeable when the Steinway Street venue re-opens this Friday is an increased focus on entertainment and live performances.

“We wanted to offer a stage to showcase the talents of the very large community of performing artists residing in our neighborhood,” says Tsaousis. “Expect first class performances, talent contests—with professional industry judges— guest performers from Broadway shows, celebrity appearances, prizes and giveaways, local filmmaker’s screenings, great DJs and lots of dancing!”

At this weekend’s grand opening celebration, Tsaousis says you can expect drink specials, guest artists, a surprise celebrity appearance and DJ Adam Sikora laying down the beats. They’ll also be kicking off their Men of Astoria calendar contest, a search to find some of the hottest guys in the ‘hood. “We are, after all, the most ethnically-rich community with the hottest guys from every corner of the globe waiting to be exposed and photographed,” says Tsaousis.

Well, when you put it that way…