This year marks a quarter century of celebrating our community in the Blade’s annual Best Of LGBTQ D.C. Awards. The awards began 25 years ago as a way to highlight businesses, performers, activists, non-profits, allies, clergy, athletes, and others contributing to D.C.’s vibrant and diverse queer community. The awards are voted on by Blade readers, with some categories receiving Editor’s Choice nods.
Tens of thousands of you submitted nominations in nearly 70 categories. The top five vote getters in each category became finalists and then you voted again for the winners. This year’s writers include Lou Chibbaro Jr., Joe Reberkenny, Michael K. Lavers, Kevin Naff, Tinashe Chingarande, Evan Caplan, Patrick Folliard, and Alexis McLean. Special thanks to Michael Key for shooting the photos and coordinating the online voting.
Congratulations to all the nominees and winners.
If you’re a Best Of winner and want to order a plaque, visit our online store.
Local Hero: Lynne Brown
Lynne Brown, who has been with the Washington Blade since 1987 and became the Blade’s publisher in 2007, assumed the role of publisher emerita in June of this year after retiring from her day-to-day duties while remaining a part owner.
Brown played a lead role in the Blade’s growth and evolution as the nation’s most prominent LGBTQ newspaper, including its launch of sister publication, the Los Angeles Blade. Prior to becoming publisher, she served as the Blade’s senior sales executive.
She also played an important role along with Blade co-owners Kevin Naff, who serves as Blade editor, and longtime Blade advertising executive Brian Pitts, who has succeeded Brown as publisher, in resurrecting the Blade after its previous owner declared bankruptcy in 2009.
“Lynne has been a rock, helping us navigate financial crises and a pandemic,” said Blade editor Naff. “The Blade wouldn’t have survived without her dedication,” he said, “She is the publisher every editor would want.”
In pointing out that LGBTQ media is still relevant, Brown cited the recent erosion of LGBTQ rights as evidence that the Blade’s work remains important.
“The Blade helps fight invisibility and isolation,” she said. “We may have rights today, but we have seen rights eroded or erased. The Blade reports on those rights authentically and accurately and serves as a communication tool and a historian for the community.”
Shortly after the Blade’s previous owner, Window Media, filed for bankruptcy Brown, Naff, and Pitts acquired the Blade’s assets from the bankruptcy court and relaunched the Blade with Brown as publisher under the new company they formed, Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia.
Brown has said the period following the bankruptcy became her biggest challenge as publisher.
“The crisis that birthed Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia kept me overly focused on millions of details,” she said. “My greatest personal challenge was delegating and letting go of details,” she added, noting that the “strengths and skills” of the staff and building the right team helped her and the Blade get through the crisis.
In April of this year, Curve magazine and the Curve Foundation named Brown to its 2026 Curve Power List honoring LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary individuals in North America who are blazing trails in their chosen fields.
“From sports and entertainment icons to corporate leaders and lawmakers, these individuals are breaking barriers, challenging norms, and shaping the future,” Curve said in announcing its 2026 list including Brown. “An annual, publicly nominated list of impactful LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary changemakers is crucial in current times to counter discrimination, legislative rollbacks, hostility, and the invisibility of queer women within mainstream and marginal spaces and endeavors,” the announcement says.
“I am honored to be recognized by Curve magazine during Lesbian Visibility Week,” Brown said at the time of the announcement in April. “As an owner-publisher, receiving recognition from a similar source acknowledges my work and efforts, with a sincerity I truly appreciate.”
NIGHTLIFE
Best Drag Queen: Tara Hoot
Whether you’ve seen her protesting for free speech at the Kennedy Center or learned how to make one of her Midwest delicacies (tater tot casserole, anyone?) like the more than 50,000 Instagram followers have, Tara Hoot has become a recognizable — and outspoken — drag queen in the DMV. Her bright dresses in every pattern and hue show you, well before her voice does, that she’s here for a fun — and friendly — time. If you’ve watched her at one of her “camp”-y drag bingo games or seen her reading to children during her Story Time Family Show, it’s no surprise she’s been chosen as this year’s Best Drag Queen.
Editor’s Choice: Citrine
Best Drag King: King Flirty
With their signature goatee and a lot of swagger, King Flirty has become one of the more recognized names in an already robust drag community. Often using their drag to highlight the Black experience, this drag king has performed all over the DMV. Commanding the stage with their larger-than-life persona, King Flirty knows how to leave a lasting impression and how to get a crowd going. If you’re looking for a performer who brings both style and substance to the stage, King Flirty is one to watch.
Editor’s Choice: King Molasses
Best Transgender Performer: Citrine
Instantly recognizable for her refined looks, snatched waist, and unmistakable feminine beauty, Citrine is one vitamin C you won’t need to be reminded to take in the morning. The award-winning performer, co-founder, and executive producer of Highball Productions D.C., it seems like there’s nothing she can’t do! Whether you’re watching her perform a number during her residency at JR.’s or watching her kill it as Elle Woods in this year’s drag production of “Legally Blonde,” if concept, looks, and talent are what you’re looking for, then you’ve found your queen.
Editor’s Choice: Indiana Bones
Best Drag Show: Throwdown Thursday at Crush
2007 14th St., N.W.
One of the liveliest drag shows in the DMV will have you watching queens do spins, twirls, and splits before you make it to the weekend. Hosted by none other than Venetian at Crush, the high-energy show features a rotating cast of D.C.’s best and boldest drag performers, and Throwdown Thursdays lives up to the hype. With drink deals and killer music, throw down with Venetian on Thursdays.
Editor’s Choice: Freddie’s Follies
Best LGBTQ Bar: Crush
2007 14th St., N.W.
The two-story, multi-dance-floor bar that sits on the corner of 14th and U has it all — fantastic drinks, spectacular events, and festive decorations to fit the season. Crush has proven its place in the long line of legendary D.C. LGBTQ bars. The larger dance floor downstairs is the perfect place to get down, with a great selection of DJs, while the upstairs patio and Starlight Lounge offer a slight respite from the chaos of one of the busiest bars in the city. The cocktail list is fairly fancy, but their namesake — the Crush — really takes the cake.
Editor’s Choice: Little Gay Pub
Best New LGBTQ Bar: Violet
2014 9th St., N.W.
In what used to be Shakers off U Street, Violet has risen like a phoenix from the ashes of what came before it to become something truly remarkable. The martinis are strong, the ambiance is spot-on, and the weekly live-singing drag performers draped across the full piano are just a few things that make Violet unique. The llamas — or are they alpacas? — that litter the space add cute kitsch while still providing the feeling of a swanky lounge. This is a new category this year, voted on by Blade staff.
Best LGBTQ Party: Grizzly Bear Happy Hour at Crush
2007 14th St., N.W.
Do you like bears, boys, and beers? Well, then Grizzly Bear Happy Hour at Crush might have been made for you. With a slamming DJ lineup, vendors, and friendly faces, Grizzly has become a staple in the D.C. LGBTQ nightlife scene. Harkening back to Town’s famous Bear Happy Hour, Grizzly has lived up to its predecessor with beer pitchers and themed nights (leather, anyone?). It’s a great place to start your weekend.
Editor’s Choice: Flower Factory
Best Happy Hour: Number Nine
1435 P St., N.W.
This longstanding two-story, indoor-outdoor lounge and video bar in the heart of Logan Circle has been catering to and serving the LGBTQ community since 2010, including on its recently enlarged patio space. Though it serves classic drinks, the handcrafted cocktail menu reaches more than 20 signature cocktails and martinis. The famed happy hour is always 2-4-1, seven days a week. If you buy your first drink before 7 p.m., your second drink is FREE until 8 p.m. (be sure to keep your receipt to show proof).
Editor’s Choice: Crush
Best Outdoor Drinking: Trade
1410 14th St., N.W.
Trade snagged the top spot this year for the second year in row, likely due to its large patio, newly expanded during Pride season last year. With echoes of erstwhile Town patio, Trade’s outdoor space brings the gay community together to enjoy its XL happy hour around the brightly lit tree that stands in the center of the space, surrounded by covered benches heated in the winter.
Editor’s Choice: Little Gay Pub
Best Bartender: Ben Oursler, Annie’s
1609 17th Street, NW
Annie’s is a D.C. institution, and from its incredible LGBTQ history to its larger-than-life reputation, it’s clear that some of the best of the best work at Annie’s. Oursler is a standout example of this. Having been nominated for the past two years and winning in 2024, he has helped keep Annie’s one of the places you can always go for a smile and a stiff drink. His great smile and personable attitude make everyone — whether sitting at the bar or at a table — feel like they’re among friends.
Editor’s Choice: Eddie Peshka, Number Nine
Best LGBTQ-Friendly Bar: Jane Jane
1705 14th St., N.W.
A classic cocktail bar that opened in 2021, Jane Jane sits in the heart of 14th Street. Although its three owners are gay, Jane Jane isn’t a gay bar, however, it maintains an open, inclusive atmosphere, with many of its staff and patrons identifying as LGBTQ. The intimate space has huge windows and a small patio that invites patrons to mingle and people-watch.
Editor’s Choice: Dew Drop Inn
Best LGBTQ Bar Outside the District: Freddie’s Beach Bar Arlington
555 23rd St. S
Arlington, Va.
The DMV LGBTQ bar scene discussion must mention longstanding Freddie’s Beach Bar in National Landing, Arlington. Freddie’s has been a staple LGBTQ bar in the area since it opened more than 20 years ago. Serving classic cocktails and a full menu, the bar is also known for its infamous Sunday Buffet Brunch, and daily events including drag shows, bingo, and karaoke, it makes sense that Washington Blade readers have voted Freddie’s the best LGBTQ bar outside of the District for several years running.
Editor’s Choice: Baltimore Eagle
Best Local DJ: Alex Love
With her varied mix of music genres, often blending early 2000s rap with today’s mega-hits, Love knows what to throw on the turntable. Whether DJing at Crush on a Saturday night or keeping the party going on the dark dance floor of Bunker, she truly has a knack for playing songs you forgot you loved. Love’s smile is nearly always visible from the DJ booth, whether she’s spinning Panic! at the Disco or Sabrina Carpenter — you’ll definitely want to dance with her on the decks.
Editor’s Choice: Michael Navarro
Best Neighborhood Bar: Little Gay Pub
1100 P St., N.W.
Just off historic Logan Circle, Little Gay Pub (or LGP for short) has become a hotspot for gays across the city. Its cute and slightly kitschy — but extremely polished — design has helped make this bar one of the best spots to grab a dirty martini, people-watch, and catch up with a friend. Everyone from Andy Cohen to Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi has been spotted at this glittering gay pub. Its food selection is also quite good — especially after a day of drinking. Don’t forget to take a picture in the famous emerald-green bathrooms, complete with a signature gold mirror that has its own Instagram account. LGP is the perfect place to see and be seen, whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or settling in for a full night out.
Editor’s Choice: JR.’s
Best Live Music: 9:30 Club
815 V St., N.W.
Washington’s legendary 9:30 Club wins again.
There’s a lot to love about the 9:30 Club: you can see your favorite band there, no matter who your favorite band is; the workers, sound, and lineup are great; and the intimacy makes it the best place to see a concert.
The club’s reputation reaches far beyond D.C. city limits. It’s been named one of the best live music venues in America by Rolling Stone, and dubbed “Venue of the Decade” by the widely read Venues Now.
What’s more, the 9:30 Club has a long-standing history as a welcoming space for D.C.’s queer community. They regularly host LGBTQ+ performers (Paris Paloma, Medium Build, BERTHA) as well as queer dance parties past and present (Mixtape, Bent, Blowoff).
Editor’s Choice: Violet
Best Live Music Outside of D.C.: Wolf Trap
1551 Trap Rd.
Vienna, Va.
Wolf Trap wins. And deservedly so.
Helmed by innovative gay president and CEO Arvind Manocha, Wolf Trap and its varied venues (set on 117 leafy acres in Vienna), smartly schedule entertainment that holds a mirror to the surrounding society.
For instance, in late June, Wolf Trap typically hosts its annual Out & About Festival—a multi-stage Pride month celebration spotlighting LGBTQ+ artists and allies. Past queer headliners have included Brandi Carlile, Brittany Howard, Rufus Wainwright, Jake Wesley Rogers, and Yola.
With its comfortable outdoor amphitheater with covered seating, or lawn tickets, Wolf Trap offers an experience for everyone.
Editor’s Choice: Merriweather Post Pavilion
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Best Local Media Personality: Ashley Darby, Real Housewives of Potomac
Ashley Darby has been a main cast member of the “The Real Housewives of Potomac” since its debut in 2016.
The Silver Spring native who graduated from the University of Maryland made her mark in the DMV before she became a Bravolebrity. She was Miss District of Columbia in 2011 and later ran Oz, an Australian-themed restaurant, with her now ex-husband.
Darby is scheduled to emcee the Washington Blade’s 25th annual Best of LGBTQ D.C. Awards Party at Longview Gallery.
Editor’s Choice: Tommy McFly
Best Local Artist: Aaron Myers
dcarts.dc.gov/page/aaron-myers
D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities Executive Director Aaron Myers has been making his mark on the city’s arts scene for more than a decade.
He is the Artist-in-Residence at the Black Fox Lounge, Mr. Henry’s, the Eaton, and other venues. Myers is the founding board chair of the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation and is a member of the D.C. Recording Academy Board of Governors.
Myers was also instrumental in creating the DMV Music Stakeholders, a group that provided assistance and resources to local musicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Editor’s Choice: Lisa Marie Thalhammer
Best Theater: Atlas Performing Arts Center
1333 H St., N.E
Located along D.C.’s H Street Corridor, the Atlas Performing Arts Center is a multiple space performing arts facility with four performance spaces, dance studios, offices, back-of-house facilities and an expansive lobby with a bar.
Originally an Art Deco movie house (built in 1938 as a segregated venue, and later integrated in 1953 by court order) today’s Atlas is a community hub energized by artistic and human diversity.
Among the many dance companies and theaters rehearsing and performing under Atlas’s vast roof is Mosaic Theater Company, a bold, culturally diverse endeavor helmed by out artistic director Reginald L. Douglas along with managing director Seiden, also out.
Editor’s Choice: Signature Theatre
Best Theater Production: “Merrily We Roll Along” at Signature Theatre
4200 Campbell Ave.
Arlington, Va.
Stephen Sondheim’s musical “Merrily We Roll Along” flopped on its first try in 1981. Well, you’d never guess it from the terrific production currently enjoying an enormously successful run at Signature Theatre (through Nov. 1).
Staged and choreographed by out artistic director Matthew Gardiner, “Merrily” stars out actors Jason Gotay and Jake Loewenthal as, respectively, a sellout composer and his loyal lyricist friend. Melanie Field plays the cynical third prong of the complex little friend group.
The show unfolds in reverse order, beginning in 1976 moving toward 1957, away from the trio’s cynical middle-aged present back to their happy and hopeful youth.
Catch it if you can.
Editor’s Choice: Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Holiday Show at Lincoln Theatre
Best Local Pro Sports Team: Washington Spirit
The Washington Spirit is the city’s female professional soccer team, and it has quickly solidified its place as a local fan favorite. The Spirit also champions the LGBTQ community.
The Spirit has made donations to SMYAL. The team also hosts a Pride Night each year.
“We’re not just a soccer club, we’re building a culture of belonging, where every fan, every player, every staff member knows they’re valued,” Spirit CEO Kim Stone told the Washington Blade last year. “Inclusion doesn’t just happen by accident — it’s something we lead with every day. You either have culture by design, or you have culture by default, and we’re intentional about creating a Spirit family where everyone belongs.”
Editor’s Choice: Washington Nationals
Best Museum: National Museum of African American History and Culture
1400 Constitution Ave., N.W.
Established by an act of Congress back in 2003, the museum features African-American history and culture since the founding of the United States. Its mission is to ” …connect stories, scholarship, art, and artifacts from the past and present to illuminate the contributions, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped our nation.” The museum also features LGBTQ history and culture about queer POC individuals.
Editor’s Choice: National Gallery of Art
FOOD & DRINK
Best Restaurant: Annie’s
1609 17th St., N.W.
Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse has been a Dupont Circle fixture for more than 75 years. George Katinas opened the restaurant in 1948 on the corner of 17th and Church streets, N.W., where JR.’s is now located. He later renamed it in honor of his sister Annie. Now located on 17th Street between Corcoran and R streets, it continues to welcome locals and visitors alike with its strong signature cocktails, food, and camaraderie, as well as with its outdoor seats and huge picture windows.
Editor’s Choice: Protest Pizza
Best Late Night Food: Annie’s
Editor’s Choice: Protest Pizza
Best Coffee Shop: Spark Social
2009 14th St., N.W.
Spark Social House opened in March 2025 as Washington’s first LGBTQ alcohol-free bar, but is also so much more than that. A community gathering place at the heart of D.C.’s LGTBQ nightlife center at 14th and U streets, N.W., the two-story spot serves coffee and tea during the day, bringing in friends, colleagues, and dates in an inclusive, welcoming space. And in the evening, it becomes a party with DJs, performances, events and either boozy or boozeless drinks.
Editor’s Choice: As You Are
Best Outdoor Dining: Dacha Beer Garden
Multiple locations
Dacha is a longstanding popular outdoor watering hole. Yet, you will consistently see groups of D.C.’s LGBTQ community hanging out at Dacha Beer Garden drinking boots of beer and enjoying a selection off the German-style beer garden’s extensive menu. With its giant murals of gay icons Elizabeth Taylor at the Shaw location and Jackie Onassis in the Navy Yard spot, it’s easy to see why gay, straight, and truly everyone can find something to enjoy.
Editor’s Choice: Hank’s Oyster Bar
Best Brunch: Perry’s
1811 Columbia Rd., N.W.
Perry’s is a D.C. staple and straight and LGBTQ customers alike flock here for the legendary Sunday drag brunch spectacle complete with an inventive cocktail list. Reservations are a must and also available at the bar, which is an even better vantage point when watching the show.
Editor’s Choice: Shaw’s Tavern
Best Local Brewery: Red Bear Brewing Company
209 M St., N.E.
Having taken home Best Brunch, Best Neighborhood Bar, and Best Local Brewery awards in the past, this year, it’s back to win the Local Brewery award yet again. This gay-owned venue in the District hosts drag shows (including brunch), trivia, and stand-up performances, among other events, along with lots of space for group-friendly board games and casual conversation. It has poured brews with suggestive titles like “Hefe Don’t Preach,” “OktoBEARfest,” and “Tall, Dark and Nutty,” to name a few.
Editor’s Choice: DC Brau
Best Local Distillery: Founding Farmers & Distillers
600 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.
Stealing the crown from women-owned Republic Restoratives this year, Founding Farmers & Distillers, located on Massachusetts Avenue in Chinatown, is a full-service restaurant and bar with an on-site distillery, Founding Spirits. It began crafting its own spirits in 2009 and in 2016, built its own distillery.
Editor’s Choice: Republic Restoratives
Best Burger: Lucky Buns
Multiple locations
Lucky Buns is the best place in the DMV to grab a burger — or non-beef sandwich — and all the fixings.
Lucky Bun (double aged angus beef patties with lucky sauce, gouda cheese, Gordy’s pickles, arugula, and charred red onion) and the Crunchy Bun (lentil mushroom veggie patty with gouda cheese, lucky sauce, arugula, grilled red onion, and pickles) are among the menu items.
Lucky Buns has three locations: Adams Morgan (2000 18th St., N.W.), Union Market (1309 5th St., N.E.), and National Airport’s Terminal 2.
Editor’s Choice: Duke’s Grocery
Best Ice Cream/Gelato: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Multiple locations
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Brûlée and Appalachian Acorn Pie are among the myriad flavors on the menu at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams.
The chain has several locations throughout the DMV: 1925 14th St., N.W., near the U Street Corridor, 526 8th St., S.E., in Barracks Row, 4918 Elm St. in Bethesda Row, 102 S. Patrick St. in Old Town Alexandria, 4150 Campbell Ave. in Shirlington, and 1669C Silver Hill Drive in McLean.
Editor’s Choice: Dolcezza
Best Pizza: Protest Pizza + Bar
1633 1/2 17th St., N.W.
Randy Downs and Ricky Bennett opened Protest Pizza + Bar on Nov. 4, 2025. It quickly became a de facto community center in Dupont Circle.
“Pride grew out of protest, and that history matters to us. But Protest is also about what we choose to build — welcoming spaces, meaningful connections and a queer-owned business that’s part of everyday neighborhood life,” said Downs. “We want to honor the LGBTQ history of 17th Street while helping create its next chapter.”
Downs added he and Bennett “want Protest to be a place people make part of their lives — whether it’s grabbing a slice after work, ordering pizzas for the office, celebrating with a team, or bringing friends together for a birthday or private gathering.”
“We’d love for people to build their own traditions and memories here,” said Downs. “Hopefully, we’ll still be serving this community decades from now.”
Editor’s Choice: Slice & Pie
Best Local Winery: Chester Gap Cellars
4615 Remount Rd.
Front Royal, Va.
(Open Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.)
It’s no wonder readers vote for Chester Gap Cellars.
First off, there’s the winery’s greeting, which reads, “No matter your gender, race, ethnicity, religion, ability or sexual orientation, we welcome you to our tasting room and vineyard. Celebrate what makes you unique now and always.”
Secondly, Chester Gap, home to Chester Gap Cellars, is best known for its estate‑grown, handcrafted wines made from premium Virginia grape varieties, particularly Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Viognier, Roussanne, and Petit Manseng.
And in less than a two-hour drive from D.C., you might be tasting good wine surrounded by splendid mountain and valley views. How better to escape the everyday?
Editor’s Choice: Big Cork Vineyards
Best Non-Profit: SMYAL
410 7th St., S.E.
SMYAL is about supporting, mentoring, and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth.
For many queer and trans youth, it’s a lifeline. Perhaps now more importantly than ever, the nonprofit’s work addresses gaps in services (including housing), combats isolation, and promotes self-acceptance.
All of this requires money. For queer and trans adults, contributing to SMYAL can be a way to help young people avoid the pitfalls or worse that they experienced in their own queer youths. And for those who knew happy childhoods, it’s way to help share that too.
For everyone, funding SMYAL means investing in the well-being, safety, and empowerment of a vulnerable and often marginalized group.
Editor’s Choice: Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington
Best Local Businessperson: Russwin Francisco
Russwin Francisco on his website describes himself as a “Filipino American actor, producer, director, educator, and entrepreneur whose work spans stage, film, music, radio, and voiceover.”
“The Girl Who Left Home” and “Here Lives Love” are among the productions in which he has appeared and/or invested. Francisco has also been a featured soloist for the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington and co-founded the Black Fox Lounge.
Francisco also founded Bite the Fruit on Connecticut Avenue in Dupont Circle.
Runner-Up: Mark Rutstein, Compass and Crush Dance Bar
Best Clergy: Rev. Cathy Alexander
mccdc.com/staff-page/rev_cathy/
The Rev. J.E. Paul Breton founded the Metropolitan Community Church of Washington in 1970. Rev. Cathy Alexander has been an associate pastor at the LGBTQ-affirming congregation since 2012.
“We are a vibrant and wonderful community that seeks to encourage people to pursue their passions, to find out what they are through spiritual giftedness, through a spiritual gift inventory and for you to really pursue your talent,” says Alexander in her 2012 welcome video.
“We periodically meet in women’s groups and men’s groups, people who identify as men, people who identify as women, you are absolutely welcome here to come and to pursue your passion and to enjoy fellowship and sistership and community with this community of faith,” adds Alexander.
Runner-Up: Bishop Mariann Budde
Most Committed Activist: Tara Hoot
Tara Hoot has certainly made her mark in the DMV, and her commitment to the LGBTQ community has only increased since the Trump-Vance administration came into office.
The celebrated drag queen is one of the area’s most recognizable figures in the Trump-Vance resistance. She most recently emceed last month’s Hands Off the Arts protest at the Kennedy Center that drew more than 2,000 people.
“Sometimes protesting is just us taking up space as drag artists,” Hoot told the Blade in June 2025 after she and other drag queens protested President Donald Trump at the Kennedy Center. “I felt like being true to who you are — it was an opportunity to live the message.”
SMYAL is among the organizations that Hoot, who is known for her drag story times, also supports.
Runner-Up: Darryl Hamilton
Best Real Estate Agent: Desmond McKenna
1313 14th St., N.W.
For experienced DMV agent Desmond McKenna, the client always comes first. Driven by the belief that every buyer or seller deserves world-class service regardless of price point, Desmond consistently creates personalized, five-star experiences designed to exceed expectations and change lives.
Editor’s Choice: Tyler Hart
Best Real Estate Group: Two Rivers Team
1313 14th St., N.W.
The 2 Rivers Team was inspired by the mighty Potomac and Anacostia rivers that flow through D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The company connects buyers and sellers in all three jurisdictions and knows that real estate is both emotional and analytical. And that’s why its team has got both heart and smarts.
Editor’s Choice: Rutstein Group
Best Lawyer: Sarah Pitney
4530 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.
Sarah Pitney is a partner at Benach Pitney Reilly. Sarah joined BPR after serving as an immigration attorney for two years in Miami. They have represented clients in various proceedings on both the detained and non-detained dockets before the immigration courts. In addition to their experience in deportation defense, Sarah has represented clients in family-based petitions, adjustment of status, waivers, asylum, and naturalization cases before United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Editor’s Choice: Andrew Lubash
Best Dentist: Dr. Gregory Martin, DDS
5454 Wisconsin Ave.
Dr. Gregory Martin, DDS, MS, is a general dentist who also offers medical aesthetics services in Chevy Chase, Md. Before dentistry, he taught high school mathematics — and he still teaches, just for a different audience: he lectures nationally, teaching other doctors about injectables and laser treatments, and was a guest lecturer for the Rappahannock Valley Dental Society’s presentation “Injectables and Lasers in Dentistry,” which included a didactic session and live neurotoxin demonstration.
Editor’s Choice: Big Gay Smiles
Best Amateur Sports League: Stonewall Sports
Founded in 2010, Stonewall Sports provides nonprofit, inclusive, low-cost, fun, local sports leagues that are rooted in philanthropy and give back to their communities. The organization believes everyone in organized sports should have the ability to be themselves. Stonewall Sports values each player for who they are and what they bring to the community.
Editor’s Choice: District Wrestling
Best LGBTQ-Owned Business: Crush
2007 14th St., N.W.
Crush Dance Bar is Washington, D.C.’s all-inclusive LGBTQ+ nightlife destination in the heart of the U Street corridor. The multi-level bar and dance club welcomes the queer community and allies for high-energy dance nights, DJs, and vibrant LGBTQ nightlife.
Editor’s Choice: District Coop
Most LGBTQ-Friendly Workplace: Protest Pizza
1633 1/2 P St., N.W.
Protest Pizza + Bar is an independent, queer-owned pizza shop and neighborhood bar that was built to be lively, unfussy, genuinely welcoming, and always worth another visit.
Editor’s Choice: VACAYA
Best Adult Store: Bite the Fruit
1723 Connecticut Ave., N.W. (second floor)
Gay-owned, straight-friendly and kink forward, Bite the Fruit is a sex shop with staying power.
Over the years, the Dupont Circle adult retailer has proved a favorite with “best of” voters. Maybe it’s because they’ve got everything a shopper might want from a large assortment of lubes to candy posing pouches. If it’s a whip you’re after, they’ve got that too.
Owner Russwin Francisco, an advocate of “healthy sexual and sensual exploration,” shares seasonal essays on the store’s website. Right now, it’s the cozy rituals of fall; a while back it was an honest exploration of chemsex; and before that, the sexiness of July. There’s plenty to cover.
Editor’s Choice: Blame Daddy
Best Fitness or Workout Spot: VIDA Fitness
Multiple locations
For the third year in a row, VIDA Fitness is the most popular gym among LGBTQ Washingtonians.
VIDA has locations in Logan Circle, the Yards, City Vista, U Street, Ballston, and Reston Station. The exclusive Penthouse Pool at the U Street location remains the go-to summer destination for locals who don’t want to schlep to the beach.
Editor’s Choice: Barry’s Bootcamp
Best Home Furnishings: Room & Board
1840 14th St., N.W.
Founded in 1980, Room & Board offers artisan-crafted and modern furniture in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Their fabrics and mattresses are 90% made in the United States. Since then, Room & Board has been an ally to the LGBTQ community, promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in its workspaces for customers and employees and hosting fundraisers for LGBTQ nonprofit organizations.
Editor’s Choice: West Elm
Best Pet Business or Veterinarian: City Dogs
1832 18th St. N.W., and 301 H St., N.E.
City Dogs has been a locally owned and operated pet store since 1999, providing quality care to its customers and their dogs. City dogs has been a strong supporter of the LGBTQ community, attending Pride events and more.
Editor’s Choice: Doggy Style
Best Salon/Spa: Buddie’s Spa
317 H St., N.W.
Buddie’s Spa is a LGBTQ and Asian owned beauty salon, offering massages, nail care,
haircuts, and more. Buddie’s Spa is currently a member of the Equality Chamber Organization and is now offering special deals for LGBTQ history month along with a national coming out day special.
Editor’s Choice: Mexia Massage & Bodywork
Best Hotel: Lyle
1731 New Hampshire Ave., N.W.
Located in Dupont Circle on New Hampshire Avenue, Lyle is a luxury 4-Star hotel, offering quality hotel rooms and amenities such as a bar and a restaurant. Lyle has been inclusive of the LGBTQ community, offering marriage celebrations to same-sex couples.
Editor’s Choice: Eaton
Best House of Worship: St. Thomas Episcopal Church
1517 18th St., N.W.
Founded in 1899, St. Thomas Episcopal Church has welcomed LGBTQ Christians and other religious members into the church. The church has supported LGBTQ rights, while allowing same-sex marriages to happen within the church.
Editor’s Choice: Metropolitan Community Church of Washington, D.C.
Best Tattoo Parlor: CryBaby
1710 Connecticut Ave., N.W., F12
An Asian and African-American women-owned tattoo and piercing studio located in the heart of Dupont Circle, CryBaby has been supportive of the LGBTQ community, providing excellent care and services to all.
Editor’s Choice: District Tattoo
Best LGBTQ Event: Capital Pride
1827 Wiltberger St. N.W., Ste. 100
Capital Pride continues to deliver one of the most exciting Pride celebrations in the nation and wins this category yet again. Along with the annual Pride parade and festival, Capital Pride organizes year-round events and even has a live radio program known as Pride365.
Editor’s Choice: 17th Street High Heel Race
Best Diversity of Pride Event: DC Black Pride
capitalpride.org/event/dc-black-pride
DC Black Pride remains one of the premier events in the country for LGBTQ African Americans, drawing tens of thousands to D.C. to celebrate each May.
Editor’s Choice: Trans Pride
Best Pride Outside of DC: NYC Pride
Hosting one of the largest Pride parades in the United States, NYC Pride is the cornerstone of all Pride, as the Stonewall Uprising took place here, and continues to thrive year after year.
Editor’s Choice: Baltimore Pride
Best LGBTQ D.C. Public Official: Japer Bowles
Japer Bowles has served as director of the D.C. Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs since October 2021. In a Cabinet-level position, he serves as a strategic adviser to Mayor Muriel Bowser and her senior staff on LGBTQ-related policy, programs, and community engagement, according to a statement on the office’s website.
It says that since Bowles’s appointment as head of the office, it has become the nation’s largest LGBTQ municipal community affairs agency that, among other things, provides funding for LGBTQ-related programs and community organizations. Prior to his current job, Bowles co-founded and led the D.C. LGBTQ+ Budget Coalition, which advocates for city funding for LGBTQ-supportive programs and local LGBTQ organizations, including the D.C. LGBTQ Community Center.
A former elected member of the city’s Advisory Neighborhood Commission in Ward 1, Bowles was a founder of the ANC Rainbow Caucus.
Runner-Up: D.C. Council member Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5)
Best Community Ally: Robert White
An At-Large member of the D.C. City Council since 2016, Robert White has become one of the Council’s strongest supporters and allies of the LGBTQ community. He currently serves as chair of the Council’s Committee on Housing. In June of this year, White won the D.C. primary election to become the Democratic nominee for D.C. Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives in the Nov. 3 general election.
White, an attorney, is the favorite to win in the November election with strong support from LGBTQ activists. He has pledged to continue his strong support for LGBTQ rights in the U.S. Congress as the successor to the current D.C. Congressional Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, who is retiring.
Runner-Up: Mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis-George
Best LGBTQ Social Group: Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington
Founded in 1981, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington “sings to inspire equality and inclusion with musical performances and education promoting justice and dignity for all,” according to a statement on its website. The chorus, which currently has more than 250 singing members, has performed at the White House, the Kennedy Center, and many other famed institutions in the D.C. area, throughout the U.S. and abroad.
“Today, we honor our history and celebrate our future by creating art that serves as a vehicle for social change, dedicated to celebrating, elevating, and protecting the vital diversity of the community we serve,” its website statement says.
Editor’s Choice: Gay Professional Men of Color
Best Medical Provider: Whitman-Walker Health
1201 Sycamore St., S.E.
Founded in 1973 as a volunteer operation called the Gay Men’s VD Clinic, Whitman-Walker Health has evolved and expanded over 50 years into a comprehensive community health center with services that include primary medical care, dental, mental health, and legal aid. With a continued focus on serving the LGBTQ community in the D.C. metro area, Whitman-Walker also extends its services to people living with HIV, Black and Latino communities, and “other people facing barriers to accessing health care,” it says on its website. It says it currently provides services to more than 20,000 individuals and families annually.
“Through care, advocacy, research, and education, the organization strives to ensure all persons can live healthily and love openly and to feel true equality and inclusion in all aspects of their live,” the website statement says.
Editor’s Choice: Gregory Jones, Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness
REHOBOTH BEACH
Best Rehoboth Drag Queen: Roxy Overbrooke
It’s been a banner year for Rehoboth’s ever-popular Roxy Overbrooke (Charles Bounds). In addition to her many roles across town, most notably hosting Blue Moon’s Spotlight show, she’s generous with her time, volunteering to perform at various fundraisers, including the recent Rehoboth event raising funds for the Blade Foundation. Roxy recently won the title of Miss Gay Delaware and Rehoboth is stepping up to support one of their own as she pursues the Miss Gay America title in January. Roxy is selfless, tireless, and sings live, bringing down the house at each performance. Rehoboth is lucky to have Roxy’s talent, generosity, and boundless energy in town.
Runner-up: Magnolia Applebottom
Best Rehoboth Drag Show: Splash Party at Diego’s
37298 Rehoboth Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
A rare three-peat in this category as the Splash Party has taken this award yet again. The Splash Party at Diego’s with perennial favorite Magnolia remains one of the most popular events in town, Saturdays at 5 p.m. on the outdoor patio.
Runner-up: Somewhere
Best Rehoboth-Area Live Show: Pamala Stanley at Diego’s
37298 Rehoboth Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Pamala Stanley has been entertaining gay audiences for 21 years in Rehoboth Beach. From the old days at the Blue Moon all those years ago (available to relive thanks to YouTube) to the somewhat quieter COVID-era days at The Pines, to a brief stint at Freddie’s to the joyful newer residency at Diego’s, Stanley has made the rounds of Rehoboth’s gay nightlife. Earlier this year, she went public with a cancer diagnosis but after posting photos of chemo treatments in the hospital, she was back on stage singing and dancing for the grateful crowds. She continues her 5 p.m. Sunday show at Diego’s through New Year’s Eve. Pamala has given so much of herself over the years and we’re thrilled to see her fighting and overcoming cancer in a brave, public way. As Pamala has implored this summer, “Everybody get up and dance!”
Runner-up: John Flynn at the Blue Moon
Best Rehoboth Bartender: Katie Lyell, Aqua
57 Baltimore Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Katie Lyell is a repeat winner, taking this competitive category last year for the first time. In fact, there’s a plaque with her name on it just below the bar where she serves drinks commemorating last year’s win. Lyell, 40, is in her ninth year bartending at Aqua. She told us last year she likes to “hibernate” during the off season and travel with her husband. You can catch her through the Aqua closing party on Jan. 1.
Runner-up: Holly Lane, Cafe Azafran
Best Rehoboth Outdoor Dining: Back Porch Cafe
59 Rehoboth Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
A worthy repeat winner from last year, Back Porch is wrapping its 52nd year serving up some of the best food in town — elevated French fare in a decidedly unpretentious, welcoming setting. On the menu this year are some inventive cocktails from bartender Reno; don’t miss the chocolate Old Fashioned.
Editor’s Choice: Theo’s
Best Rehoboth Coffeeshop: Rise Up
502 Rehoboth Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Another repeat winner, Rise Up is known for its large summer crowds, delicious breakfast sandwiches, and, of course, some of the best coffee drinks in town. It’s a great place to lounge outside with an iced coffee in the summer or to bring your laptop and linger over a latte in winter.
Editor’s Choice: Gather
Best Rehoboth Restaurant: Blue Moon
35 Baltimore Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
What can we say that hasn’t already been said about the iconic Blue Moon? After the building sold earlier this year, there were concerns that the business might suffer. But the Moon keeps on delivering what it has for decades: some of the best food in town paired with consistently top-notch entertainment. From one of the best happy hour deals in town to Tasting Tuesday specials, to special occasion fabulousness, the Moon never disappoints.
Editor’s Choice: Back Porch
Best Rehoboth Real Estate Agent: Lee Ann Wilkinson
Her seven-year winning streak in this category was broken last year but Lee Ann Wilkinson comes roaring back in 2026. The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group is part of Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices. Wilkinson has been at the real estate game for more than 40 years and her team includes 24 real estate professionals. When not working,“she passionately commits her time to causes such as combating the opioid crisis and promoting environmental preservation,” according to her website.
Runner-up: TIE Joe Petrone & Chris Beagle
Best Rehoboth Business: Diego’s
37298 Rehoboth Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Diego’s owners Darryl and Joe Ciarlante-Zuber opened in 2018 and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. From winning this year’s Best Live Show (Pamala Stanley) to Best Drag Show (Splash), Diego’s offers up a steady stream of entertainment, from renowned DJs to drag queens. The renovated patio is one of Rehoboth’s few LGBTQ outdoor drinking spots. The owners are often on site so say hello and thank them for investing so much in creating a queer-friendly space filled with joy and fun.
Editor’s Choice: Second Block Hospitality
Source: Washington Blade: LGBTQ News, Politics, LGBTQ Rights, Gay News – www.washingtonblade.com
