O Bar: The Home of Manila's Finest Drag Queens
Being part of the LGBT community, sometimes looking for a place to hang out where you can just be yourself and loosen up is quite a challenge. Worry no more because O Bar, a venue of choice by the LGBT community and an entertainment haven located at Ortigas, promises to deliver pure fun, no drama, and definitely no pretensions needed. Named for the street where it was originally located—Orosa Street, which honors the inventor of banana ketchup, Maria Orosa—it’s now a cornerstone of the queer community in Manila. O Bar, which has been in the business for almost a decade now, started as a small bar in Malate. Now, it boasts a spacious place in Ortigas (no more dirty shoes after partying).
The O Divas: Manila’s Best Drag Performers
O Bar’s biggest pride are their drag queens also known as the O Divas. Believe me when I say that O Bar is the home of Manila’s best drag performers. At first they hired drag performers just as a way to attract customers, but it soon became a way for them to nurture local talent. They hire professional dance teachers, as well as language and drama experts, to perfect the artists’ lip syncing and performance skills. You’ll be amazed on how they transform and channel our favorite foreign singers like Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, and Madonna.
Below are some of the Philippines’ finest drag performers from O Bar:
- Katkat Dasalla: Known for her provocative and captivating performances, Katkat is definitely one of the most famous divas at O Bar. She was hailed by a magazine in Thailand as one of Asia’s Best Drag Queens. Watch her as she impersonate Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, and Ariana Grande flawlessly.
- Precious Paula Nicole: Be mesmerized by Precious’ sweet smile, but don’t be deceived as she can deliver an electrifying ensemble right on the spot. One of their divas, Precious Paula Nicole, won Season 1 of the Philippines' RuPaul's Drag Race!
- Bernie Barrantes: A crowd favorite, Bernie’s dominating presence and energy on stage is contagious. She gets the loudest cheers because of her fearless stunts, explosive performances, and her seamless impersonation of Nicki Minaj.
- Gigi Ehra: Gigi is a breath of fresh air; not into the typical impersonation. Her artsy performances has the right mix of androgyny, glamor, fierceness, and class.
- Eva Papaya: Eva Papaya has been in the drag industry for a long time and considered a pioneer at O Bar. Fabulous outfits, classic songs with a funny twist, Eva Papaya is definitely a joy to watch onstage.
Social Impact and Celebrity Presence
O Bar also offers free HIV testing, PrEP medication, and other health counseling in coordination with the local department of health—the only bar in the Philippines that does so. They take care of their older drag queens, assisting in special fundraising events to help them cover expenses. Even celebrities like Vice Ganda, Divine Lee, and top fashion designer Rajo Laurel are frequent visitors, so you guys have a huge chance of partying with them. O Bar is open to all gender, race, and status.
Partying in the Philippines: Beyond O Bar
The bars and restaurants in the metro area of the Philippines’ capital Manila range from chic rooftops with stunning city views, to themed venues representing the multicultural influence in this diverse country. Let us introduce you to some of the very best nightlife in Manila:
- The Filling Station: This bar and café’s decor is inspired by the interiors and atmosphere of the 1950’s and 1960’s American diners. It has everything from gas station memorabilia to jukeboxes playing old tunes.
- Z Hostel: Located in the city of Makati, Z hostel is known as one of the best hostels in Metro Manila. It has its own rooftop bar with a perfect view of the Manila skyline.
So if you want to spend your night with just good vibes, party with us and show off your true colors. Let the queens of O Bar serve you their sickening fish realness. Party out. Party loud!
