Established in 1979, this is a no frills, LBGTQ+ friendly neighborhood dive bar. There is a pool table in the back and a karaoke stage in the front. The drinks are stiff and the customers are lively & fun. The locals come here for nightly Karaoke, and they also have drag shows every Friday at 11 p.m. I came here many years ago, but it still looked like I remembered. Bartender Chad was friendly and attentive. I liked his vibe. I sipped my vodka soda while soaking in the ambience. I would have stayed for another, but this place is cash only and I don't carry much on me these days. There is an ATM machine in the back, but I'm old school and don't have an ATM card. LOL! read more

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I've always wanted to check this place out, the only gay bar in Pasadena. So when PSL had an event here, I was stoked!! Great service from the one bartender!! Loved the decor, too! read more

The Boulevard - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Ahhh this place is really fun!! I went to celebrate one of my friends birthday We went for a late night drag show-which was amazing 10/10, everyone was nice and respectful, I recommend sitting close to the open stage as you'll get the most attention (make sure to have lots of dollar bills). The only issue I encountered was the ATM machine in the back *laughs* I think that thing had personal beef with me-it would not recognize my credit card nor my debit card (and I knew I was not broke lol) in the end I gave up and had to borrow some money from my friends cause otherwise I couldn't tip the performers or afford to buy myself a drink XD read more

The Boulevard is a MUST whether you're a local or visitor! A nice little hole in the wall LGBTQ+ bar with pool, karaoke, and great deals. Steve's service was amazing and hospitable! I'm not from here but he made me feel so safe, at home, and welcomed at the Boulevard! Drinks were made in less than a minute and the deals were amazing. I went with a friend who she and I played pool, danced in the back room, and sat at the bar sipping onto our drinks made with love... Will definitely be returning soon!! Made my California experience unforgettable!!!!! read more

The Boulevard - The pool table area - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Went in with friends for karaoke. We asked when it was starting--the bartender said "Soon, I think." We knew there was a two drink minimum to sing, so we started with two drinks and a couple waters. The plan was to get drinks for the whole table once the karaoke started, since we weren't sure how long we'd need to wait. Waited around for over an hour before we asked again when it would start. Was then told in the most condescending way possible that they were waiting for us to buy more drinks to start the karaoke... all we were told was "in a while," nothing about "just get your two drinks and we'll start!" I tried to clarify the miscommunication and the owner started screaming at me and calling me ungrateful and entitled. I kept trying to tell him I understand the two drink minimum and appreciate the work he does for the community... but he just kept screaming at me. My partner has non-epileptic seizures from stress, and even after she respectfully asked him not to yell at her (emphasizing risk of seizure), he yelled in her face and stormed off angrily when she collapsed to the ground convulsing. I walk outside to see her laying on the ground while the bartender and his friend are literally pointing and giggling. Naturally I lost my s***, at which point the bartender threatened to punch my other friend (a short, brown girl) in the face and accused my partner of faking her seizures "for a living." She ended up being taken away in an ambulance... all the while they lied and denied everything to the paramedics and the police. Absolutely horrendous experience. And this was a place I had previously held as a favorite in Pasadena. But the sheer lack of empathy was shocking especially from a member of my own queer community... I genuinely wish I could recommend this place. And I'm sure the owner will have a very long reply for me, smearing my character and accusing me of whatever he needs to accuse me of to make himself look better. But the fact is, they screamed in a disabled girl's face, and laughed at her when she had a seizure. Do not support this establishment. EDIT: I see your reply. You did exactly what I expected you to do with it, as stated above. I told the medics and police the seizure was being worsened by the lights and shouting... I also told them it was started by her being screamed at. My friend called 911 at the same time your people did. I asked your people not to because I was afraid you were going to lie to them like you lied to my face. When I came to talk to you we had ordered two drinks, a long island and a Modelo. You can remember what you want to remember and claim whatever it is you need to claim to help you sleep at night instead of reflecting on your foul treatment of your own community. This is not a fake account, I just rarely use Yelp. I believe the same can be said for my friends who have also left bad reviews. No new accounts were created for the purposes of "libeling" you. Honestly, I can tell you are really suffering and I wish you the best as well. But it would go against my conscience to let treatment like this go without calling it out publicly as I am here. read more

We love this place. We have done two seasons now of watching RuPauls Drag Race episodes during their viewing party. Staff is awesome, kind, and makes you feel welcome. We have been to one drag show on Friday night as well and had a great time. read more

I love our one and only pasadena gay bar. Fun ambiance. The staff is always fun, kind and attentive, and their events only continue to get better. I just wish that they would accept credit cards (but I assume there's a monetary decision behind this) and that they opened before 8pm more often. I'd support a Blvd happy hour !!! read more

Came here a few weeks ago after one of the most stressful weeks I've had a in a while.. one of those where you get off a shift and and just want a nice buzz and a meal before bed lol. I stopped by at around 11:30pm on a Sunday. I was able to find street parking very close since I stopped by when I assumed it would be slow. The inside was small but very nice with the lots of pride decor everywhere. Thankfully there were only about 8 other people in there at the time so it was very chill and I was able to enjoy my drinks in peace. The bartender was nice, he offered a Tajín rim instead of salt on the margarita which I always appreciate! Only cash with an ATM in the back, I cant remember how much each marg was but it was either $8 or $10. Overall a pleasant experience. I'm sure it gets poppin on the weekends here and would be better with a group, maybe I'll be back with friends! read more

The Boulevard - Margarita with Tajín Rim - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Love this place, very welcoming whether you come to do Karaoke or Trivia you'll definitely have fun. I recommend going on Tuesday for Trans Night where they do Trivia! Also bring cash but if you don't carry cash they have an ATM in the back! read more

It looked liked the workers were making fun of a girl who was having a seizure... there was an ambulance. Like... WTF... How could I go back after that?????? read more

Yes!!! Such a great time at The Boulevard. Love the gay hangs, with good vibes and great entertainment Park in the residential area around the corner (No parking lot) CASH ONLY AT THE BAR $3 atm in the corner No cover Proof of vaccination & ID at the door Fridays are Karoke & @ 11pm an amazing Drag Show, hosted by the fabulous Portia ensues! Drinks are decently priced, served by shirtless dudes with smiles and friendly service ($28 for 3 gin and gingers, about $9.50 each) 1 free pool table Not a typical gay bar with porn on the TV screens, but a clean and friendly place to call home. To enjoy a drink, sing some songs (or watch those that have the balls to sing, noone is judged here!) And watch some great drag performances. A great place to celebrate a birthday or have a fun night out. Gay or straight, a judgment free zone where the love and booze be flowing. A great time for all. Portia mcing was amazing! She really brings the house down and has a great energy! Catch her hosting every Friday and bring those $1 bills for the queens!! read more

The Boulevard - Karaoke Friday Nights - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Always a happy place to be , where you can be yourself without judgement. I celebrated my birthday here last night and the show was awesome ! Drag queens were full of energy . A place to unwind after long day at work, sing your heart out at their karaoke nights . I support this epic place and I support LGBTQ ‍ and we support Steve . read more

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First time here last Friday night. Had to park around the corner and up the street, but that's no biggie. Quite frankly this is the best little hole in the wall gay bar on the planet. The bartenders are exceedingly good looking, very cool, and do perfect pours. Drinks are reasonably priced, but do note that they are cash only, so plan accordingly. The karaoke was great! I didn't participate, but it seemed to be well organized and the guy running it was a hoot! One part sarcasm and one part hilarity. Honestly folks, this place is legit. Just don't come in drunk, and don't be a self absorbed twat, and you'll have a great time with everyone. read more

Love this dive bar!!! Couldn't ask for more. Strong drinks. Pool table. Karaoke. Locals. Friendly bartender. This was my first time at a lgbtq bar and my first drag show. I'm heterosexual and married but was in town one night only and wanted to sing karaoke and this was the only option. I had a blast! Yes there are particular rules but I did my research and walked in asking questions (yes a bit of BDE ) the bartender was amazing the queens were amazing I appreciated that the KJ sanitized the mic after each performance. And I got some good notes from the queens . So...bring cash. Don't be pretentious. Enjoy read more

The Boulevard - New friends - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Popped by here on a whim the Sunday before Christmas while friends from the OC were in Pasadena on a staycation and had one of the most memorable experiences. As soon as we walked in, we knew this was our spot for the night and many others in the future if we are in the area. And this was all driven by...STEVE. Steve is warm, wonderful, funny, sarcastic, proud of his establishment. Judging by all the regulars that swung by throughout the night and seeing his warm interaction with them, you know he and this bar are loved. The space is cozy and clean, complete with a pool table and a mini stage for karaoke (or drag shows!) Karoake brings the people together and that happened here for sure. Steve subs in as the DJ as well, and his energy and outlook just cracked me up. I'll be honest, my friends chose this place because they were seeking a gay bar for the night, were curious about the spot based on what they read online AND amused by Steve's responses to the 1-star reviews on here. We heard the backstory for each and let's just say, those are the "yelpers" that give us a bad rap, the ones who threaten owners negative yelp reviews for bad experiences that are due to THEIR fault. Check it out for yourself - you won't be disappointed. And Steve, I hope to be back soon. read more

The Boulevard - "Hooker," Steve's amazing dog, feeling at home :) - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Boulevard is like going back in time and space.... Perhaps Des Moines in 1980. A classic dive hole in a wall in a good way. The bartender is old school...a bit cranky, amiable, droll, with lots of May West-W.C Fieldesque one liners. Full bar for basic cocktails and then some. Don't expect elaborate mixology and craft beers. However, try Steve's Rootbeer Float which is a sweet dessert drink with flavours of coffee, orange rind, cinnamon, cloves, allspice in a complex heavy cream medley. I fell in on a Wednesday, and it was Karaoke (kah rah oh keh) night by 9:30pm. Downhome with the bartender also acting as the MC. Very retro, small town feel. If you want more flash, razzle dazzle, go 30 miles west to Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood. 4- Yelp stars. read more

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Alright first off I've only been once and I'm not the target demo. However, my wife and I had a fucking blast. She paradoxically had both crippling social phobia and immense desire to sing in public. Here she was cheered on and made to feel amazing. We made the mistake of believing this is like other bars karaoke nights and waited to put our names in. This isn't like other places where roughly 25% are gonna sing. In this place everyone had a tune in their back pocket to belt out. The dj/manager makes sure everyone gets a chance before the boldest get the second go. We were served by a super friendly young man named Johnny who is young enough he could have been my prom night mistake but sang like an old soul. It was fun and positive and I'm very thankful. To the ladies who got up to cheer my wife on, you are fucking real ones. And Amber we found your thing after you left and gave it to the bar. Five Fucking Stars. read more

This was a lot of fun to get strong drinks and spectate kareoke! Definitely recommend, will come back if we are in the area again read more

The Boulevard - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Visited this karaoke bar with a friend from out of town for pride weekend and we were NOT disappointed. The ambiance was AMAZING. Our drinks were yummy and the singers were great! Overall great vibes and definitely a safe place for queer folks and allies to let loose. If you're in Pasadena, I recommend checking this place out read more

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First off, the bartender was great. Super friendly and poured heavy too! I came with a group of 4 for karaoke but was really disappointed. My first friend texted their song request but the queued song was incorrect. We spoke to the manager who said he would fix it but my friend still ended up on stage trying to sing a song he didn't know. My song went fine but my two other friends popped up in the queue and then their names both disappeared seconds later. I asked if they had accidentally been skipped but the manager claimed they had been called 3 times each..which definitely did not happen since we were all in the front row eagerly waiting. I did not want to argue after reading other poor reviews about interactions with the manager so we left after that. Other notes: cash only, limited seating, friendly crowd read more

This place has changed. The hours are much later. I wanted to stop by at 5:00 pm and they weren't open Yet. Shame, this place use to have better hours. read more

Best Karaoke/ drag show in the area Drinks mehh, choose veer here!! Parking is tight. read more

The owner kicked my girlfriend out for resting her head for a few minutes and told her she was wasted even though she was stone cold sober, drove me there, and was supposed to be my ride home. She ended up having to take her car home and I had to pay for a ride. The owner also harassed another memeber of my party and told her she was too drunk as well and she also was sober on arrival. It seemed like the owner was on a mission tonight... Post note: the owner responded super inappropriately and threatened to call the cops on sober patrons who weren't causing any issues. People did leave with her, I wasn't there for the interaction and I didn't realize how bad it was until people fully told me what actually happened in the morning. To say "many a review like this" says everything you need to know. If you come here you may be unjustly harrassed for something extremely minor. Nobody in the situation was belligerent (other than the owner) and nobody was causing issues with other patrons. If theres other reviews like this then the owner really has a pattern of disrespecting his clientelle. There's a reason this bar has a 3.9 rating.... read more

First of all, Steve, I have never been to your bar before last night. You have me confused with a different black girl. Second, my water bottle had water in it, not liquor, and I would've been much more inclined to actually leave it in my car if you weren't a complete asshole from the time we arrived. Not only to me, but I saw you be rude to other customers as well. You need an attitude check. And this is coming from someone in the service industry. Original review: The bar itself is great, but the bartender on staff when I went on a Sunday night for karaoke was the rudest person I've encountered in a while. He was not only rude to me but several other people while I was there. He made me feel extremely unwelcome and I definitely won't be coming here again. read more

Okay, thanks Sathy, Panda, Jennifer, Niki, and Vince for dragging me here on a Wednesday night to have drinks and to watch the Drag Queens (transgender) perform! It was a fun experience for a straight guy. LOL. I must admit, the Drag Queens are beautiful! Very nice people, very feminine, and extraordinary performers. They lipsync songs, danced, and seem to be very affectionate people. Of course it's a business, and they earn money mainly through tips and the bar probably also pays them too. They serve simple mixed drinks and beer both on tap and bottle. Not too much of a selection on the tap, but mixed drinks might have more varieties depending on the bartender. Boulevard is a small neighborhood dive bar. The transgender performs twice a week from what I was told. They are very nice people, and I learn to accept them for who they are. I came more for the experience, and to hang out with some fun Yelp buddies. Just have fun and don't think too much. :) read more

The Boulevard - Drinks, Gumbaeee! - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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So, I decided to wait a while prior to leaving this review after visiting one time the first weekend in April. The pros to this establishment are many. First, the bar is kind of low insofar as there are not a lot of karaoke options in the area. So if you'd like to karaoke, this spot is one of your only choices. Second, the clientele are extremely talented with a diverse range of musical styles. The cons? The two drink minimum policy. For those with health or addiction issues, this venue is rather exclusive. I ordered three waters for the table and - having worked in the service industry as a younger person - voluntarily tipped three dollars. Additionally, my companions ordered three rounds over the course of the evening. Theoretically, this was enough to push us over the two-drink minimum as a party. When my karaoke request was repeatedly denied, I questioned the proprietor and explained my situation. He said that his staff doesn't charge for water. That said, I explained that I did voluntarily tip $3. He then challenged me to visit the friendly bartending waitstaff. As it was quite busy and at least an hour had elapsed, they could not remember whether or not I had left a tip. At that point, the proprietor said, "You're a liar!" In front of the entire bar. Unfortunately that was not a good look for him or his establishment. At that point I challenged him to pull any video footage he may have, welcoming him to check the veracity of my account. At that point he declined and retreated back to the karaoke booth. This could be a terrific establishment if not for discrimination against those with specific health conditions or addiction issues. Perhaps a good solution might be an alternate karaoke fee for non-drinkers? I would have happily paid and such unprofessional and exclusionary behavior on the part of the proprietor could have been avoided. That said, if you enjoy getting your drink on and don't mind a bit of verbal abuse, this is the spot for you! read more

I love this place, the owner Steve is a great guy and his bartenders Johnny and Jamal are super nice, If you want a place to have a birthday, sing karaoke see a really good drag show or just hangout this is the place to do it. The Boulevard Bar has been in the community for years when other bars have come and gone. There is always something going on so go on in and say Hi. read more

I've been coming to the Boulevard for a few years now, religiously on my birthday. Each and every time I can venture out, this is my go to! I love this place, the ambience, people (STEVE), bartenders, and just the entirety is great! This place has NOT DISAPPOINTED me or my group of friends and family, not once!!! If you're in the area you have to come check it out, whether it's for a good Drag show or Karaoke... or maybe to get plastered on tequila shots for your birthday! ‍‍‍‍‍ it's definitely worth a drop in. Hey, BTW... if this isn't your scene, then don't bother because this bar is only for the deserving! Thanks guys for a great Saturday night!!! read more

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The environment of this place was very cute and welcoming. Karaoke was cool. The only thing was that I could not get drunk! They have a cash only policy (what year is it again?) and I would have gladly taken out cash except I didn't have a debit card! Expired and have been waiting for my card to come in the mail. Shame. I had to go to another bar a few blocks down where they took card! Would highly recommend changing the cash only policy. Charge more for your drinks if you need to. Oh well, maybe next time. read more

GAY BAR SMALL TOWN DIVE BAR REALNESS!!! This hidden gem makes me gag for joy! Can here for Karaoke memorial day weekend and must of sang like +10 songs.... I spent less than $20 on several drinks that were well made... a tad watered down... then again my tolerance level is "supreme lush" vs. entry level. I plan to go back VERY VERY SOON. Everyone here is so open, genuine, encouraging and engaging. Pool table in back. Small cozy bathrooms. Juke box. Flirts. Plenty of seating. If you're doing karaoke the mic cuts out right after you past the first bathroom... (I like to work the room). read more

I love this place I can't wait to go again, it was sooo much fun the night I went was karaoke night! They also have a pool table and I love playing pool too also the service when I tell you it's amazing it's too bitch in my book. Everyone is so sweet and nice when I walked in I felt positive fun vibes here! I hope next time I go they have some food, I love to eat and I hope they have some good food. If they have I would be so happy the drinks are fire! And delicious read more

Pretty good time lol good folks great service. Great drinks nice staff. Good pool table in the back

My friends and I have been here a few times and every time we've had a great experience. The drinks are good. The bartenders and staff are super friendly, cool and attentive. The vibe is welcoming, fun and chill. Definitely recommend this place. read more

Great neighborhood bar, and a fantastic local alternative to the bars in Weho or DTLA. Drinks, Drag, Pool, and Karaoke- who can ask for more. Thank you Steve for continuing to serve our community. Cheers sir! read more

Best karaoke and drag shows anywhere in the Pasadena area... always a great time with friends! Amazing sound and lightshow, true karaoke bar with every song you can ask for. read more

This was my first time here and my last. From Phoenix Arizona. Never have I EVER been treated with disrespect. The bartender, young fellow, thought he was the king of the place. Only asked for a spit cup, nope. Don't think he knows what that is. Said no and said I have to wait. I will NEVER visit this place again. And to add. Two Domestic beers and two shots, $31?? Damn!!!!! Not worth it.. over priced. Treat family like family kid!! read more

Love this place - inviting, friendly, and fun. So glad to be raising my kids in a city where Boulevard exists!

Steve the bartender is unmatched. If you don't like him you're honestly an individual who is out of touch with reality. GET A GRIP lmaoooo but for real. Fun little bar that cares about its guest's! SHOUTOUT TO STEVE read more

The Boulevard - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

This place is perfect. It's a cute and small neighborhood bar in East Pasadena, CA. All ages here. Saturday is Karaoke night. Two Captain Morgan and cokes cost me $20+$2tip. Plus the best part is that they accept Venmo to pay for drinks. Smoking area is out front and you have to park in the neighborhood down the street or two blocks away, but it was no big deal. The neighborhood is supper safe. read more

The Boulevard - Karaoke singing - Gay Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

I've been coming to the Blvd for the past 5 years. It's not the fluff of weho but it's always a good time. During the pandemic shut down the owner made some cosmetic repairs. What I absolutely love about the owner Steve is he was amazingly socially responsible during COVID. He was one of the first and only places in summer 2021 to require masks and vaccination cards. He was really looking out for the community and doing his part to keep us safe. Anyone who works as hard as Steve to keep the community safe will always get my business. read more