Hillcrest Neighborhood Food & Drink
Hillcrest’s restaurant and bar scene are lively. More than 200 food and drink establishments are found on every corner of this neighborhood. Many cater to a vibrant LGBTQ+ clientele, but everyone is welcome in the spirit of tolerance and diversity.
Depending on your mood and your budget, you can choose from casual coffee houses and cafes, bistros, intimate gathering spots, and five-star dining spots. If you’re looking for a great Happy Hour, places that are pet friendly, feature live music, or late-night hangouts, Hillcrest’s restaurants and bars will have no problem connecting you with the experience you crave.
Hillcrest's nightlife is in high gear along University Avenue, between Second Avenue and Park Boulevard, where dance clubs and video bars go late into the night at a frenetic pace. Also, take time to explore dining options on cross streets, which have more than their share of flavorful offerings.
At the western end of University Avenue, Urban MO’s Bar & Grill is an iconic hetero-friendly gay bar and local favorite. It's a hot meeting place with a festive outdoor patio, butt-kicking cocktails, and famous juicy burgers. Nearby, Flicks is always packed thanks to go-go dancers, stiff and cheap drinks, and music videos above a small, spirited dance floor.
Rich’s is the go-to high-octane dance club in Hillcrest. There are two full bars, dance floors, and a popular outdoor lounge. Expect lines after 10 pm for crowds who come for theme nights, killer music, and to be a part of the “see and be seen” crowd.
The lesbian-operated Gossip Grill has a huge patio and a rousing dance floor for the ladies. Men and women also come for fabulous drinks and the American comfort food menu. Alibi is the local rock and roll club, with a cash-only, casual dive bar, a small outdoor patio, pool tables, and a kickin’ jukebox that blares music all night long.
Uptown Tavern is another University Avenue favorite, offering crafty cocktails, microbrews, and farm-to-table fare in stylish and down-to-earth decor.
The Hillcrest Brewing Company is the world's first and only gay-owned brewery. It's a great spot to grab a pizza or enjoy a wide selection of beers on tap.
There are several other buzz-worthy favorites that attract patrons day and night.
If you’re after something with an international flair, try Amarin Thai, Ono Sushi, or Khyber Pass. You can never go wrong with late-night classics at Saigon on Fifth, Bronx Pizza, or the Crest Cafe. When you’re looking for designer drinks, try sipping on craft cocktails from Concept Two-Seven-Eight, Nunu's Cocktails, and the Uptown Tavern.
Last but not least, the best noteworthy romantic restaurants for a night out with your special loved one are Ristorante Arrivederci, Ebisu Sushi Bar, and Kous Kous Moroccan Restaurant.
