We are well underway into Pride Month in India. If you’re travelling with a partner around the country then book your accommodation at one of these LGBTQIA+ friendly stays. Those looking to travel overseas can consider queer-friendly cities and visit important LGBTQIA+ landmarks.
For Delhi residents and visitors who will be travelling to the Indian capital soon, here are five cafés where you can enjoy the food and ambience without worrying about your safety.
This live music bar led the revival of the indie music scene in Delhi when it opened in 2014. Its premises are tuned for acoustic sets and the bar has hosted over 4,000 musical performances across genres and styles. There are regular LGBTQIA+ events like “Pink Thursdays” and patrons from the queer community are a regular fixture at the premises. Try Depot48's Tex-Mex-inspired menu and drink cocktails at the bar.
Address: M9, Level 1 and 2, M Block, Market, Block M, Part 2, Greater Kailash 110048
This LGBTQIA+ friendly café is adorned with pastel colours which give off a retro vibe. The night-time ambience with lights and lamps twinkling over patrons having dinner or ordering a cup of coffee is a particular highlight. Bring a date along and enjoy your time here.
Address: 264, Westend Marg, Butterfly Park, Saiyad Ul Ajaib Extension, Saket 110030
Another LGBTQIA+ friendly venue is Greenr Café. The restaurant aspires to become a household name in plant-based dining in India. They choose responsible, ethical, quality, and value-oriented food and products on their menu and in the items they curate on their property. They welcome LGBTQIA+ patrons and are a safe space for people of all identities to be able to eat and make merry with friends and family.
Address: 4, Market, Basant Lok, Vasant Vihar 110057
Jugmug Thela is a cosy space in Saket where you can sip on masala chai, filter coffee and cheesecake in a space built mostly from recycled wood, brick, glass and metal. They welcome people from all backgrounds and “do not bias over gender, religion, cast[e], colour or sexual orientation” as per their website. According to founder Jiten Suchede, “Jugmug Thela came into being because I wanted to create a place that didn’t just offer quality food and beverage, but a place filled with disarming ease and comfort that let me drop the weight of my daily life and experience the joy and lightness of now. At our core is respect and equality for all.”
Address: Shed#4, Khasra #258 Westend Marg, Lane#3, behind Kuldeep House, Saiyad ul Ajaib 110030
Summer House stretches over two floors with wooden interiors, easy chairs and throwback couches that create a laidback atmosphere. Their rustic and colourful interiors make one feel right at home. The café hosts LGBTQIA+ galas and queer community events on a regular basis. The food is mostly made up of American comfort food coupled with a large menu of popular cocktails. There’s also live music on during the weekend so make the most of your visit here.
Address: 1st Aurobindo Place Market, Sri Aurobindo Marg, Hauz Khas 110016