New York’s Iconic Queer Club The Ritz Reopens with Bold Facelift, Reaffirming Its Place in LGBTQ+ Nightlife

Hell’s Kitchen’s famed queer nightclub, The Ritz Bar and Lounge, has received a transformative facelift, marking a new era for one of Manhattan’s most storied LGBTQ+ venues. After changing ownership in early 2025, the club unveiled its refreshed space with a grand reopening on May 17th, attended by local politicians, drag royalty, and members of the community eager to celebrate the rebirth of a nightlife institution .

The four-story building, situated at 369 W 46th Street, has long been central to New York’s queer culture, hosting unforgettable drag performances, DJ sets, and dance parties that drew people from across the city and beyond. Now, under the stewardship of new owner Eric Hanninen—himself a longtime patron of the venue—the club has emerged with a modern look and a renewed mission to serve as a safe, inclusive, and dynamic gathering place .

The Ritz’s facelift extends well beyond surface-level glamour. Patrons stepping inside will find a new dance floor shimmering beneath a disco ball, a state-of-the-art DJ booth, plush benches, and remodeled bathrooms designed for comfort and accessibility. Ambient lighting now sets the mood for late-night revelry, while the previously shuttered second-floor bar has reopened, offering an intimate lounge experience perched above the main action .

The club’s backyard patio has also been revamped, featuring new seating and table service—a welcome addition for those seeking conversation and connection in a more relaxed setting. Importantly, the renovations included critical upgrades to the HVAC system, lighting, and overall safety infrastructure, with Hanninen personally moving into an apartment above the club to ensure ongoing oversight and community engagement .

Beyond aesthetics, the relaunch signals a significant evolution in the club’s approach to safety and inclusivity. Hanninen has implemented a comprehensive security plan, including ID and bag checks, staff retraining in de-escalation techniques, and extended operating hours from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. New liquor licensing and legal improvements to the outdoor spaces ensure that every guest can enjoy themselves in a secure, welcoming environment .

Community leaders and advocates have praised these changes, emphasizing the importance of safe queer spaces at a time when LGBTQ+ rights and safety remain under threat in many parts of the country. At the reopening, New York drag icon and activist Brita Filter spoke passionately about the club’s role in her own journey, recalling, “This was where I saw my first drag show… where I learned what my queer culture was… and where I learned how to fight back.” Her remarks underscored the enduring significance of queer nightlife venues in fostering belonging and resilience .

The Ritz’s reputation for vibrant programming remains unchallenged. Regular events include rotating DJ sets, drag shows, and dedicated evenings for RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing parties. The club’s relaunch coincides with Pride Month, amplifying its role as a center for celebration and activism. “We know The Ritz means a lot to this neighborhood, and we’re listening,” Hanninen stated. “There’s a lot of work to do, but we’re committed to creating a space that welcomes everyone, celebrates queer culture, and brings back the energy that made The Ritz special in the first place” .

Patrons have responded enthusiastically, with online reviews highlighting the upgraded atmosphere, improved amenities, and the club’s commitment to maintaining its playful spirit. “The Ritz got a facelift and now she’s BACK… tight, slick, and ready to party. The old messy charm? Still there. But now it’s wrapped in mood lighting, actual airflow, and furniture that doesn’t feel like a dare. And bathrooms no longer feel like a biohazard,” wrote one reviewer, reflecting the blend of nostalgia and excitement that defines the new Ritz .

For many LGBTQ+ people, venues like The Ritz are more than entertainment destinations—they are sanctuaries where chosen family is forged, identities are affirmed, and joy is shared. As one longtime patron put it, “I’m a gay man, and this is my home—this is my chosen family… it’s really great that we get to come together, we get to party, we get to celebrate, you know, and we get to escape. And I think the disco ball is at the center of all that” .

The Ritz’s resurgence is emblematic of a broader revival in New York’s queer nightlife, with other historic venues undergoing similar rebirths. But for many, The Ritz stands apart for its history, its sense of community, and its enduring commitment to inclusivity. With its doors open wide once more, the club is poised to continue shaping the narrative of queer life in New York City for years to come.

he Ritz offers both a reminder of the power of safe, affirming spaces and a testament to the resilience of queer culture. The club’s reopening, under queer ownership and with a dedication to community, marks not just a return, but a renewal—a promise that the heart of New York’s LGBTQ+ nightlife beats stronger than ever.

The Ritz Bar and Lounge is open daily from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m., welcoming guests of all gender identities and orientations to experience the new chapter of a legendary venue .