Top 5 Queer Cafes and Clubs in Delhi that Celebrate LOVE!

-Mansi Senghar

The whole world becomes a lot more accepting during pride month but the queer community needs more than that! They need to feel seen and heard every day, they need a place where they can be themselves without the fear of being judged or called out for their preferences. They don’t need a dingy corner standing aloof from the rest of the bright and dreamy parts of a club.

The queer community needs space just like heterosexuals do and fortunately enough, with the changing times, cafes are now standing tall with these communities. These cafes in Delhi don’t just welcome the queer folks with open arms but celebrate them for being themselves, unapologetically. Let’s take a closer look at these cafes, shall we!

Jug Mug Thella, Champa Gali

If this name rings a bell in your head, it's because you have probably watched Love Aaj Kal 2. Yeah! So that’s where you know this place from. And those of you who haven’t watched the movie, let us take you through a literary journey inside the doors of Jug Mug Thela.

Jug Mug Thela is a quintessential Delhi cafe, buzzing with crowds at all times of the day, seven days a week. They have both indoor and outdoor seating space. Like the name suggests, Jug Mug is a perfect spot for date nights that will add sparkle with its ambiance. This one’s quite a hit among the couples and embraces the queer community with its arms wide open.

Address: Shed#4, Khasra#258 Westend Marg, Lane#3, behind Kuldeep House, Saiyad ul Ajaib, New Delhi, Delhi 110030

Hopefully, one day we will live in a world that celebrates love for all that is with no ifs and buts. Till then, let's find joy and hope in all that we have!

Kitty Su, Delhi

Started by Keshav Suri, the man fighting for the abrogation of section 377 and equal rights at the forefront, Kitty Su is the sexiest nightclub in Delhi that screams inclusivity and believes in the concept of #purelove. The place is a black and red den of pleasure that is all things freak and bold. Identified as she/her, Kitty Su is a gender-bending drag queen who lived as she partied. The place has hosted some world-class artists such as Steve Aoki, Hardwell, and DJ Snake. What once started as any other nightclub, Kitty Su has changed the nightlife scene in the capital city for the LGBTQIA+ community in its decade-long journey.

The black and red den that looks like a freak party house actually has transcended into a place where the topic that gets hushed otherwise stirs into conversations. In simple words, Kitty Su is the home for all the misfits, rebels, and freaks that otherwise lurk in the aloof corners of the world.

Address- The Lalit Hotel, Barakhamba Rd, opp. Modern School, Connaught Place, New Delhi

Summer House Cafe, Hauz Khas

In their own words, ‘It all started with one vacation, back at their summer house where they missed the buzz of their city but also wanted to spend the rest of their lives in the summer house.’ It was then that they decided to bring a summer house in the town for all. The warm ambience, wooden interiors, easy chairs, and throwback couches make you reminisce the hot and sultry summers.

Summer House Cafe has a very laid-back vibe, where anyone and everyone is made to feel at home. This stunning cafe in South Delhi is not just known for its laid-back vibe but also for the amazing gigs and events hosted every day of the week that will want you to go back to this queer-friendly cafe again and again. Be it salsa, stand-up comedy or Karaoke Nights, the Summer House Cafe does it all.

Address: 1st Aurobindo Place Market, Sri Aurobindo Marg, Hauz Khas, New Delhi

Depot 48, Greater Kailash

Just one word - Class! Depot 48 is a beautiful amalgamation of live performance art and comfort food prepared by the famous chef - Ritu Dalmia. The newly launched cafe is located on the quaint streets of N-Block Market that immediately impresses every guest without trying too hard. The amazing concept of ‘Original Music, Inspired Food’ is an attempt to redefine the nightclubs in Delhi with fresh artists, off-record albums, and an exemplary menu.

Depot 48 is simply an acoustic treat with a side of great food and delicious cocktails for people who love music, bar and food. This cafe extraordinaire is not just famous for its concept but also for hosting the most amazing LGBTQIA events in Delhi. One of its extremely famous themes among the queer community is Pink Thursdays where you just have to pay half the price for the cocktail of your choice on select options.

Address: N3, 2nd Floor, N Block Market, Greater Kailash 1, New Delhi

Red Bricks Cafe, Saket

Just like its quirky name, the cafe has a very charming decor and great food. The cafe’s rustic look is clearly a great sell-out and attracts a lot of Instagrammers to snap cute pictures with their friends along the red brick wall adorned with multiple light fixtures.

This charmingly rustic cafe accepts us all for who we are, irrespective of our sexual orientations and preferences and that is our favourite part about this romantic cafe in Delhi!

Address - Khasra No 284/2, Champa Gali, Gali, No 3, Westend Marg, Saidulajab, New Delhi

Hopefully, one day we will live in a world that celebrates love for all that is with no ifs and buts. Till then, let's find joy and hope in all that we have!