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So what if you're gay? Such is the attitude at this friendly, unobtrusive, post-gay gay bar that helped put the queer East Village bar scene on the map. Head for Chelsea if you're looking for self-loathing Prada-clad dishrags swilling Cosmos. The Boiler Room's all about straight-acting boys drinking beer. Discreet sitting areas provide a respite from the heavy cruising in the main room, with cozy nooks and crannies where randy patrons can fumble toward ecstasy before splitting for clammier climes. On busy evenings, fresh-faced NYU students flock here in droves. — Andy Bailey

The Boiler Room boasts one of the best jukeboxes in the city: Where else could you possibly primp, preen and prowl to both Streisand and the Stone Roses?