Thurst Lounge

Thurst Lounge

Thurst Lounge logo

✨ Vibe

Thurst Lounge is a high-energy U Street destination where a diverse and lively crowd gathers for a fusion of hip-hop beats, social hookah, and an undeniably joyful, bustling atmosphere.

🍸 Best For

High-energy dancing, late-night socializing, strong cocktails, and premium hookah sessions with friends.

🔥 Highlights

  • Pulsating Soundtrack: The DJs curate a vibrant mix of hip-hop, rap, and pop favorites that transform the intimate, narrow space into an electric dance floor.
  • Exceptional Food & Drink: Guests rave about the impressively strong, value-driven cocktails and a menu of tasty, fairly priced bites perfect for sharing.
  • Premier Social Setting: This recently opened lounge provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where the energy remains high from early evening through the late hours.

ℹ️ Need to Know

  • This hotspot is a local favorite that fills up quickly even on weeknights, so arriving early is highly recommended to soak in the full experience.
  • Located in the heart of the historic U Street corridor, it offers a clean, modern, and high-energy setting for a quintessential DC night out.

📰 In the News

Washingtonian Jun 5, 2025

A Guide to DC’s Best Gay and Lesbian Bars

Thurst Lounge is a Black-owned LGBTQ+ venue in D.C. that serves as a tribute to the city's Black queer community through its decor and historical tributes. Located on 14th Street NW, the lounge features a purple-lit atmosphere and offers a variety of entertainment including live music, karaoke, and game nights.

Eater DC Jun 3, 2025

The Best Gay Bars in D.C.

Thurst Lounge is Washington D.C.’s only Black-owned LGBTQ lounge, located on 14th Street NW near the historic U Street corridor. The venue offers Sunday two-for-one drink specials from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and hosts Taco Tuesdays featuring five-dollar margaritas.

www.them.us Mar 26, 2025

Rooted in Advocacy and Activism: A Locals’ Guide to D.C.’s Diverse LGBTQ+ Culture

Thurst Lounge is a prominent Black-owned LGBTQ+ nightlife space located on Washington D.C.’s U Street Corridor, founded by Brandon Burke and Shaun Mykals to cater specifically to the Black and brown queer experience. The venue features popular events like Thursday Bliss and serves as a vital community hub for dance, advocacy, and activism within the District’s diverse LGBTQ+ scene.

The Hilltop Online Apr 1, 2024

Longtime Friends Open D.C.’s First Black-Owned LGBTQ+ Lounge

Thurst Lounge is Washington D.C.'s first Black-owned LGBTQ+ lounge, located on U Street and designed as a welcoming space for the city's queer community. Founded by Brandon Burke and Shaun Mykals, the venue features daily happy hours, vibrant murals of cultural icons, and a focus on inclusivity and authentic self-expression.

AfroTech Jan 23, 2024

Washington D.C.'s Only Black-Owned LGBTQ+ Lounge Is Committed To More Inclusive Spaces For Local Residents And Beyond

Thurst Lounge is Washington D.C.’s only Black-owned LGBTQ+ lounge, located in the 14th Street corridor. Founded by Brandon Burke and Shaun Mykals, the two-story venue features a bar with a retractable roof and hosts community-centric events like 'Thursday Bliss' to foster inclusion for the Black and Brown queer community.

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