Barracuda Lounge: Drinks | New York

Opened in 1995 by Bob Pontarelli and the late Heighton, the venue built its reputation through celebrity appearances, iconic drag performers, and its long-running Star Search competition. Layout-wise, the room set its back stage alongside sofa-style seating and creative hours of looped film. Visitors encountered attentive bartenders, a cash-only bar, and no cover charge at the door. Its three-decade run in Chelsea came to an end in March 2025 due to neighboring construction.