Atlantic City is now a little more colorful with the highly anticipated arrival of The ByrdCage, a new LGBTQ+ friendly restaurant, bar, and entertainment space, located at 3426 Atlantic Ave. This vibrant hotspot is the city’s first full-time LGBTQ+ establishment since the closure of Studio Six in 2004.
The ByrdCage is the brainchild of Jason Tell, an award-winning caterer and party planner, known for his flair for creating unforgettable events. Recognized by Philadelphia Magazine as the region’s “Best Party Planner,” Tell brings over 30 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, with stints at popular restaurants and bars in Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and Cape May County. His latest venture promises to be more than just a place to eat and drink—it aims to be a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone, regardless of identity, feels at home.
A Vision for Inclusion and Entertainment
“We are so excited to bring The ByrdCage to life,” says Tell. “This is not just a restaurant or a bar—this is a space where the entire community can come together, celebrate, and be themselves. We’re proud to be the first full-time LGBTQ+ venue in Atlantic City in nearly two decades, and we can’t wait to welcome guests to a place where they feel at home and safe.”
The two-story venue offers a dynamic blend of food, music, and entertainment, catering to both locals and visitors. The first floor houses a piano bar, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by live music. Upstairs, the second floor is the epicenter of entertainment, featuring drag shows, theme nights, and a rotating schedule of special events designed to keep the energy high and the vibe inclusive.
From Sex Swings to Kinky Boots
The building’s colorful past adds a playful twist to the venue’s narrative. Previously home to the Role Play Lounge, a swingers club, the space was most recently occupied by Good Dog Bar. Now, The ByrdCage is ready to make its mark with a bold and cheeky attitude.
“The sex swings may be gone, but I’m ready to bring back a little kink…or at least ‘kinky boots’ to the location!” Tell jokes, hinting at the lively and uninhibited spirit the new venue aims to channel.
A Culinary and Cultural Destination
The ByrdCage offers a full slate of dining and nightlife experiences, including:
Lively brunches with creative cocktails and decadent dishes
Happy hour specials designed to draw in the after-work crowd
Nightly dining with a menu highlighting fresh, locally inspired cuisine
Drag performances and themed parties that celebrate creativity and diversity
The venue’s arrival is poised to be a major win for Atlantic City’s LGBTQ+ community, filling a long-standing gap in the city’s entertainment scene. More than just a bar or restaurant, The ByrdCage aims to be a hub for connection and celebration, fostering a sense of belonging for all who walk through its doors.
With a reputation for exceptional hospitality and creative event planning, Jason Tell has spent decades perfecting his craft. His career highlights include orchestrating extravagant parties and curating unforgettable dining experiences. Now, with The ByrdCage, he’s ready to leave his mark on Atlantic City’s evolving nightlife scene.
For the latest updates on the grand opening and event lineup, follow The ByrdCage on social media at @ByrdCageAC or visit their website at www.byrdcageac.com.
Get ready, Atlantic City—the cage is open, and the party is about to take flight!
Photo Credit: Ruben Garcia
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