You see, the building that Tabu bought last year originally belonged to iCandy. Now, the spot has kept some of that dive bar feel while also being in a building with several floors and an outside patio area.īut even better than its dive-with-a-budget feel is its karmic fate. Because of that, the atmosphere around the establishment has changed and evolved. Within the last year, Tabu, which was originally popular gay dive/sports bar, expanded and bought a new building. Next is Tabu, a spot that’s somewhere in the middle between being a local dive and a more established mega-bar. So while Woody’s and Voyeur are more of your dancy/clubby spots, Tavern on Camac delivers on a variety of interests. Not only does this spot change depending on which pianist is playing that night or time, but the space also holds a small dance room on the second floor. But hey, that’ll loosen you up to go sing a song or two (certainly has for me). They’re expensive but they’re also doused in alcohol. Tavern is a classic culprit of gayborhood drinks.
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If you ever want to make friends while singing show tunes or listen to a few free performances (good or bad), this is the place to go. This small space speaks of cabaret lights, cocktails, and laughing friends in an intimate and hushed tone. Tavern on Camac is a small and pleasant piano bar found just a few blocks away from Woody’s and Voyeur. If you love musical theatre and pop music, you’ll love this spot. These following spaces vary in crowds and aesthetic, but they all cater to gay or gay-friendly clientele.įirst, we have Tavern on Camac. Once you’ve got the “go at least once” spots out of the way, you can start to explore the spots locals more regularly frequent. Just watch out for the cover charge ($20 post-midnight!). If you’re looking to stay up late in the city, Voyeur is the place to go. While Woody’s is respectable in size and more low-key in its presentation, the large scale Voyeur building is a more mainstream space focused on nightclub adventures. The two establishments have a joint venture where they often host bargain deals for entry and connecting events. Then right across from Woody’s is the popular Voyeur nightclub. Honestly, the fact that Woody’s is so well-known has made it what I call “The straight woman’s gay bar.” That said, it’s still the mecca of the gayborhood and should always be respected as such. It’s known by everyone and is a tourist hotspot, but it’s not necessarily the most representative of local life. Friends described him as a diminutive, gentle soul.But caution, Woody’s mainstream appeal has made it the gay bar equivalent to the Philly cheesesteak staple Genos.
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According to published reports, he served on the school board for New Bedford, Mass., and also worked at the Federal Reserve. and was visiting friends at the time of his injuries. He also was Certified as having completed all requirements of Regulation 9-3700 of the Philadelphia Bouncer Ordinance.” Krasner promised to act methodically prior to determining what charges should be lodged against Frye.Ī representative of Mainline Security issued this statement about Frye: “The independent contractor security officer involved in the alleged altercation on April 16, 2022, in the area of Tabu Lounge & Sports Bar has no criminal record. Numerous LGBTQ+ advocates called for Frye to be arrested and charged with murder. He died a week later.Īt the time he allegedly murdered Pope, Frye worked for Mainline Private Security LLC based in Center City. Pope fell unconscious onto the street and was transported to Jefferson University Hospital in critical condition.
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Video surveillance shows Pope dancing along South 12th Street in front of Tabu shortly before Frye punches him in the head. April 16 Frye escorted Pope out of Tabu due to intoxication.
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April 28.Īccording to police, around 12:50 a.m. Frye, 23, surrendered to police at 2:20 p.m. On April 27, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office announced that it’s charging Frye with third-degree murder.
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Kenneth Frye, a bouncer who worked at Tabu Nightclub earlier this month and allegedly killed Eric Pope after escorting the gay man out of Tabu due to intoxication, is being charged with murder. Kenneth Frye (Photo courtesy Philadelphia Police Department) / Tabu Philadelphia