“Big Bar” Louisville, Kentucky

Ratchet Level: Low

Cover: None

Music: Pop, Dance, Hip-Hop

The irony of this name because the establishment is actually very small. But this does not matter because this is the hot spot of the neighborhood. I’ve visited multiple times during different days. The frozen drinks that change almost everyday were amazing. A friend of mine would crave them and we would have to visit just for that alone. There is also outside seating with tables that loop around the building. Anytime I visited business was always booming. I love that there is a phone charging station on the interior as well. Overall all my experiences visiting have been great. The crowd was been diverse as far as gender, but the demographic was typically white. As a black gay man I was not at all uncomfortable or fetishized. Everyone was welcoming and there to have a great time which I enjoyed. The bathroom had a great full body mirror for selfies. The place was clean on the outside and bar area. There is just one bar which makes sense due to the size. If you’re in the neighborhood I recommend stopping here to enjoy a frozen drink. Not much space to dance but people made it work. The music here has the videos to match so it appeared to be a pre-made playlist. Not sure how often they have a live DJ or if you can request music. Doesn’t matter the playlist was great.

Big Bar, Chill Bar Highlands, and Nowhere Bar are all on the same block within walking distance to form their own gayborhood. There is street parking which was free after about 8pm. Everything else in the neighborhood are restaurants and private businesses; many of which have pride flags and BLM posted. This neighborhood appeared very inclusive and progressive. I had no issues walking between the different clubs and getting food. Between Chill and Nowhere is a street hotdog stand with a man who was very nice. I was in the area for about a month and would visit all three bars on the regular with three separate reviews. Your favorite international LGBTQ+ club critic; ShamelJones!