It’s a Helluva Townhouse

When Paul Galluccio opened The Townhouse with his partner Michael Grummons in 1988, their intention was to create a very different bar from the dark and dingy establishments catering to gay men at the time. They wanted to lure in the businessmen from Park and Madison Avenues and they accomplished it by offering a more sophisticated experience.

Though a lot has changed in its thirty years ⎯ what once was a one-room cocktail lounge is now three distinct bars all under one roof ⎯ their upscale speakeasy-looking lounge on 58th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues is still the place to be for the posh gay set. The bar presents a friendly atmosphere, neither pretentious or stuff, yet attracts a well-educated, distinguished and cultured crowd.

The piano bar, especially, is a city favorite. Weekdays at 6pm (weekends at 8 or 9pm) some of the top piano players in New York including veterans Rick Unterberg and Michael Ferarri begin tickling the ivories. It’s a lively scene with gay men and several ladies gathering round the piano to belt out their grand Broadway tunes.

“We’re a true Cheers bar to the LGBTQ community,” says Grummons. We spoke with him to learn more.

First, give us your secret for lasting three glorious decades.

MG: I think it’s because we cater to a niche cliental: the mature gay crowd.

How mature?

MG: Thirty and over.

Are women welcome?

MG: Everyone is welcome at Townhouse.

Describe the typical Townhouse patron.

MG: Well-traveled, with many experiences to share.

Most talked about topic among patrons at Townhouse?

MG: Politics, unfortunately.

Dress code?

MG: Business casual.

Are cowboy hats allowed?

MG: No.

Busiest night of the week?

MG: Saturday.

When is Happy Hour?

MG: Everyday from 4-8pm. $2 off all drinks.

Most popular cocktail?

MG: Vodka Martini.

Best way to get the bartender’s attention?

MG: Make eye contact.

Top requested piano bar song?

MG: Hello, Dolly!

Are pdas in the lounge permitted?

MG: Depends on how long they are and how they are conducted.

What are the strangest items left behind in your lost-and-found?

MG: A bag of dildos.

Celebrity sightings?

MG: Sonja Morgan (from Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City) is a regular.

Funniest regular performer?

MG: Harriet at the piano. She performs weekends.

World Pride is in NYC this June. Any plans?

MG: We’re excited to host another amazing performance by cabaret favorite Christine Pedi.

How would you describe Townhouse in one short sentence?

MG: A cocktail party every night.

Townhouse Bar is located at 236 E. 58th Street. Visit www.townhouseny.com.