Posh Bar & Lounge was known among New Yorkers as “The first and original gay bar in Hell’s Kitchen.” Named Get Out! Magazine’s “Best late-night bar in NYC,” Posh was one of the most celebrated gay bars in the neighborhood for over two decades. Sadly, Posh closed down last year in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, devastating the self-titled “gayborhood”. If you’ve been particularly saddened by this closure, then you’re invited to discuss your feelings further Over A Drink…
While Hell’s Kitchen residents have been distraught over the loss of Posh, a new hospitality group is thankfully laying down plans to open a new bar concept in the former Posh space. The as-yet-untitled bar will be operated by Over A Drink LLC, which is owned by James Healy, Jason Wade Mann, and Laurie Wenk-Pascal. Offering up a hearty selection of beer and cocktails, the new bar will also serve traditional pub fare like wings, chicken fingers, nachos, spring rolls, and corn dogs.
Moving into the former Posh space at 405 West 51st Street, the new bar will feature both a dining area and customer bar, capable of seating about 74 guests on the ground floor. Currently in the design phase, the Over A Drink team is still trying to finalize further details about the layout and schedule for opening.
It’s also unclear at the moment whether or not the new bar will cater to the local gay community, but given the space’s important history it will certainly be a welcome and inviting place for all. Open daily from 4PM- 2AM, the bar will stay open until as late as 4AM on Fridays and Saturdays, ensuring the longstanding legacy of Posh will be appropriately honored.
Actually, the first gay bar in the hood was Town and Country, which became Cleo’s and then Ninth Avenue Saloon. Been there since the 70’s.