NYC Is A Dating Mecca... But What About For Trans Women?

Outer Heaven: On Chrystie Street you will find Outer Heaven between Ray’s Bar and Public Hotel. As the new kid on the block, Outer Heaven is for those in the know, but you'll still have to get past the long line that eventually turns into a crowd outside. It's small but mighty, and the décor is sci-fi themed with a Y2K leaning. It's dark and intimate with banquette seating, but I recommend standing at the bar, where everyone's proximity is so close you’d have to go out of your way not to make conversation with the person next to you. If you’re a music lover and the dance floor is where you put your best foot forward, this is also a perfect spot for you. Every weekend there are different DJ sets (usually techno) and it's dark enough that you can dance like nobody’s watching. Dolls usually have no problem gliding in and out of this hot spot throughout the night.

Freehold Brooklyn: Freehold in Williamsburg is the perfect summer day hang for anyone who isn't out of the city or traveling. The bartenders are very queer-friendly and amiable and on any given night any kind of person you can think of will be there. The backyard/garden boasts picnic tables that are perfect for meeting a seat mate and the fun food and drinks are an easy enough conversation starter. This place gets packed at night, especially the dance floor. I’ve yet to go there once and not have men approach me and my girlfriends.

Silver Apricot: An intimate restaurant nestled on Cornelia Street, Silver Apricot has only 6 tables for indoor seating and is rectangular in shape. Close quarters mean that casual conversations are easily had and it’s a great date spot as they serve flavorful small bites perfect for sharing. The crowd is a blend of locals and downtowners looking for the perfect comfort meal, and comfort is key to making new friends.

[Photo via @outerheaven.nyc, @thefreehold]