🏳️‍🌈 First Time Experience in a Gay/Hosto Bar in Malate, Manila

I’ve always had this idea that a Hosto Bar is a place where half-naked men dance for patrons, mostly catering to older gay men and women. It never appealed to me—I couldn’t see myself inside such an establishment because it didn’t feel empowering to “worship” a straight man for entertainment. 

 I’ve been more exposed to gay disco bars like O Bar and Palawan Bar, where the crowd is mostly younger members of the LGBTQ+ community, freely dancing and celebrating their identities. That’s always been my scene. I told myself that maybe I’d visit a Hosto Bar when I get older—but not now.

Curiosity Got the Best of Me

The more I avoided the idea of going to a Hosto Bar, the more curious I became. What was it really like? Was it truly just about men dancing for money?

Then came the ultimate challenge—my friend from the U.S. visited me and insisted we go bar hopping, Hosto Bar style. At first, I refused. It went against my philosophy, but he was extremely persistent. Plus, he was paying for the night—who was I to refuse a free experience? 😆

The Unexpected Night Out

We first stopped by Machete in Baclaran, but honestly, the energy wasn’t there. The transitions between performances were too slow for our taste, so we finished our drinks and decided to look for another spot.

Since I’m more familiar with Malate’s party scene—particularly Chelu, a popular gay disco bar—I figured we could try our luck there. But I had no clue where the Hosto Bars were. So, we did the most Manila thing ever—we asked a pedicab driver for directions! 😆

He took us to Humane Element Entertainment Bar at #60 Julio Nakpil St., Malate, Manila. The moment we stepped inside, I felt super nervous. What was I getting myself into? But having my friend by my side, who was already familiar with Hosto Bars in the U.S., gave me the confidence to just go with the flow and enjoy the night.

Breaking the Stereotypes

What happened next completely changed my perspective.

I thought Hosto Bars were just for older gays.

I thought it was all about men stripping for money.

I thought I would feel out of place.

I was wrong.

Yes, Hosto Bars are entertainment bars, but they cater to anyone—regardless of gender, race, or age—as long as you’re willing to pay for the experience. It’s a different vibe from the gay clubs I’m used to, but it’s an experience worth trying at least once.

Stepping outside my comfort zone made me realize that Hosto Bars aren’t about “worshipping” straight men—they’re about entertainment and connection. Everyone in that bar was there for a good time, to socialize, and to enjoy the performances.

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Would I go back? Maybe. But one thing’s for sure—I’ll never judge a place until I’ve experienced it myself.