New Ownership and New Attitude for NYC’s Mainstay Gay Bar
After more than 18 years as a staple of Hell’s Kitchen nightlife, Ritz Bar and Lounge is turning the page.
Under new ownership, the iconic venue is getting a much-needed reset, and celebrated with a grand re-opening on May 17th. The celebration included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with New York City drag icon and LGBTQ+ rights activist Brita, Council Member Erik Bottcher, and the owner Eric Hanninen, followed by an evening of performances by local queens Stasi, Lanye, QueenLee, Boy Gorge, and DJs Alpha Moses, Xavier Mazara, Eric Abobo, and Jovanotti.
Once a go-to spot for the queer community, The Ritz has faced scrutiny in recent years, particularly following a high-profile case that concluded in February. But before it fell from grace, The Ritz was a nightlife powerhouse—home to two dance floors and three bars when fully activated—and regularly drew A-list clientele, including Lady Gaga, Madonna, Christina Aguilera, and Andy Cohen.
Eric Hanninen, who has frequented the bar since 2014, has purchased the entire four-story building for $5.8 million. The property had previously been listed by SERHANT, the real estate firm founded by Bravo’s Ryan Serhant, for $6.5 million. With deep ties to the space and an insider’s understanding of its strengths and shortcomings, Hanninen is rolling out changes to make The Ritz safer, more inclusive, and more in tune with the needs of Hell’s Kitchen nightlife.
“We know The Ritz means a lot to this neighborhood, and we’re listening,” said Hanninen. “There’s a lot of work to do, but we’re committed to creating a space that welcomes everyone, celebrates queer culture, and brings back the energy that made The Ritz special in the first place.”
The transformation includes a full interior refresh—new ambient lighting in the bar and dance floor, upgraded HVAC systems, proper bathroom ventilation, new draft beer lines, and an entirely redesigned dancefloor with updated flooring, benches, and integrated visual lighting. The bathrooms are being remodeled, and the outdoor patio is being legalized and outfitted with seating and table service. Behind the bar, a new layout will allow for faster, more efficient service, and a new DJ booth and larger stage will anchor the performance space.
The venue also plans to operate extended hours from 4 PM to 4 AM and introduce appetizers to its offerings, creating a more versatile experience that bridges the gap between daytime lounge and nighttime club.
To improve safety and guest experience, the entire staff is undergoing retraining in TIPS alcohol certification, sexual harassment prevention, and food and beverage protection. A new detailed security plan—already approved by the State Liquor Authority—is being implemented in partnership with a professional security company. Hanninen is the majority owner, and a partner will be onsite during business hours to oversee operations and ensure accountability.
Programming is also getting a full revamp. Expect rotating DJs, drag shows, and RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing parties, with new resident entertainers currently being recruited. Themed nights will begin rolling out in July, and Hanninen is actively partnering with local nonprofit organizations to create community-focused programming outside of traditional nightlife hours.
“The change in ownership means taking a hard look at everything—staff, operations, culture—so we can rebuild the trust of our patrons and set a new standard for queer nightlife in Hell’s Kitchen,” Hanninen said. “This is a new era, and we’re moving forward.”
Hanninen’s message is simple: come back and see the difference. “Check out the environmentally conscious upgrades, enjoy the new seasonal cocktail menu served in elevated glassware, relax on our refreshed outdoor patio with full service, and feel the transformation the moment you step inside—from the front door to the dancefloor.”
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