Known as Phoenix’s “Gayborhood,” Melrose is only a mile long, but its liveliness and cultural significance cannot be underestimated. Located on 7th Avenue between Indian School Road and Camelback Road, this neighborhood brings color, vitality, and a sense of inclusivity to downtown Phoenix with its iconic Melrose Arch, Rainbow Crossing, and LGBTQ + friendly business unique neighborhood, we talked about Piper M’Shay, the very first Miss Gay Melrose America and a Melrose resident of three. You can find her in one of the most popular bars in the neighborhood, Charlie’s, with stunning drag shows five nights a week. Photo courtesy of Piper M’Shay “Serving as Miss Gay Melrose America was nice because it made me feel that I represented a title that was true to where I live and to the community I belong to, ”she said. “I live and work right in this neighborhood that felt real and real to me.” M’Shay, who has been dragging shows for a decade, has become a local favorite – even making the top 5 in Miss Gay Arizona America was on the ASU theater program because I thought I wanted to act, but I didn’t identify with any of the characters, ”she said. “Drag was my way of cheating on the system because I could create my own character and it was best for me. I’ve met so many people in the community too, which is great. ”Courtesy of Stacy’s at MelroseBars & NightlifeWhen M’Shay isn’t performing or hanging out with friends at Charlie’s, you can find her at other popular Melrose bars – like this one Retro arcade bar Thunderbird Lounge in the style of the 70s, the drag show paradise Stacy’s @ Melrose or Pat O’s Bunk House Saloon. For an evening we also recommend the newly opened Don Woods’ Say When Rooftop Bar in the Rise Uptown Hotel near 7th Avenue with breathtaking views of the city of Camelback Mountain and downtown Phoenix, the comfortable, modern atmosphere from the center of the century and the creative retro style splashes. During the day, you can also enjoy an Instagram-ready drink by the pool downstairs at the LYLO Swim Club, like the Dole Whipped. And while Melrose is best known for its nightlife, the neighborhood has more to offer than many think. “There’s a lot to be seen here if you just take the time to look,” said M’Shay. “There are lots of cool stores, great stores, and great people here. And it’s not just bars – there are restaurants and vintage shops to check out too. ”Courtesy Joe’s DinerRestaurantsFor a diner-style breakfast, you can’t go wrong with a Melrose Kitchen breakfast burrito or cookies and Sauce at Joe’s Kitchen. For a tasty no-frills lunch, we recommend the PHX Burrito House pork carnitas burrito or a gourmet hotdog from Short Leash Hotdogs. We love the all-beef Chicago Dog with bacon fries and classic, old-fashioned vanilla donut. Plus, we recommend everyone stop by Fry Bread House, a community staple since the 1990s, for a simple fried bread or stuffing it with beans, cheese, or chorizo, nowhere better than at the award-winning Progress restaurant, renowned for its upscale American Cuisine and memorable craft cocktails are known. Just don’t forget to make reservations – the restaurant fills up quickly. “There are lots of local businesses to support and I hope folks I do because there are lots of opportunities for growth,” said M’Shay. “Being part of the community makes me happy to go and support other businesses, and they really take care of the other residents too – it’s like a big family.” Courtesy of Melrose on 7th Avenue Shops Melrose is by far one of the best Neighborhoods of the city for unique vintage home decorations – especially in places like Modern on Melrose and Retro Ranch. Sweet Salvage is another great market that opens its doors every third Thursday of the month to shop for upscale vintage homeware for four days. Another fun fact about Melrose? It’s one of the few places in Phoenix that you will see a winding road. “It’s funny because we’re built on a grid and the only street that’s not straight is in the gay district,” said M’Shay. Jamie Killin is a native of Phoenix and an Arizona state graduate who specializes and writes in lifestyle. You can usually find them in the Spin studio, at a concert, or trying out new restaurants across the valley. Follow her at @jamiefayekillin.
[ad_2]
