Club Escape: Chicago’s Last True LGBTQ+ Home

For thirty years, Club Escape on Chicago’s South Side has been more than a bar—it’s a sacred community hub where Black LGBTQ+ folks feel seen, safe, and like family. Owner Warren Burger, once the “Live Catfish King,” opened it in 1996 to fill a vital need, and today it’s known as the neighborhood’s “Cheers,” thanks to affordable drinks, weekly drag shows with Mz. Ruff N’ Stuff, and staff who know regulars by name. Rooted in Burger’s civil rights legacy, the club thrives on loyalty, dancing bartenders, and newcomers finding home right around the corner. And with Warren firmly saying “not for sale,” Club Escape’s heartbeat? Still going strong. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9fbbcd61b5cad1ca