One of Queens’ earliest gay discos and queer social bars, Mr. Dreams opened its doors in September 1977, carving out a nightlife oasis outside Manhattan for LGBTQ patrons across the boroughs. Initially promoted with nightly disco dancing, drink specials and Sunday events, it quickly became a go-to destination for Queens nightlife.
Through the late 1970s into the 1990s, Mr. Dreams stood as a rare queer space in Queens — late-night, high-energy, and welcoming to a mix of young people, college students, regulars and anyone looking to dance, socialize, or find community on a Saturday night. Staff and regulars from the era recall bartending, meeting partners, and building friendships there, under the disco lights and pulsing music.
