In a nondescript area of Northeast DC, there is a raucous gathering of women. On a Saturday night, tucked away amidst rows of storefronts, there is one establishment still open and lively as other businesses have closed and most pedestrians have cleared the streets. It’s a nightclub that easy to miss if you’ve never been there before. It’s called Lace, and it’s a lounging place just for women.

Lace prides itself on being a place where “every night is ladies night.” The clientele are mostly women, the bar staff and wait staff are women, and the owner is a woman, too. In fact, Lace has been called the only woman-owned lesbian establishment on the east coast. Regardless of its ownership, Lace’s atmosphere is one of comfort, allowing oneself to relax and also have fun.

The first floor level of Lace includes a small bar, an eating area, and several small sofas with comfy pillows. Unlike other lounges and bars in the DC area, Lace is one of those places where you can go to have a drink and actually engage in conversation with person standing next to you. But it is by no means quiet. Music from the dance floor and lounge on the lower level permeates to the areas upstairs. On the night I went, a collection of popular dance music and a bit of club music were on the play list. There’s also a Latin music night where you can try out your moves in salsa or meringue with friends.

Overall, Lace has a very intimate feel, which is most likely due to its small size, but also to the pleasant wait staff and bartenders. It’s also immaculately clean for a nightclub. The décor is mostly black and pink. And, of course, lace.

Given its location, traveling to Lace will require some planning. It is not near a metro station, so you will need to find a ride or reserve a car or cab. If you choose to drive, be aware that parking will be limited and that you will need to be conscious of your safety while walking at night.

Admittedly, my experience with nightclubs is limited, but at Lace, I had a very nice time. It’s also something special to be able to support women-owned businesses and then also find that you like what they offer.

Lace
2214 Rhode Island Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 200018