The Abbey
Address
692 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Active Dates
1991 - Present
Courtesy of The Abbey
About this location
The Abbey opened in 1991 as a coffee shop, and has since become a significant LGBTQ+ cultural landmark. This venue was founded by David Cooley with the intention of providing a safe space for the gay community. The Abbey is known for hosting one of the longest-running lesbian nights in Los Angeles on Wednesdays. The bar was also the location that inspired lesbian pop star Chappell Roan’s hit “Pink Pony Club.” The Abbey also historically hosted meetings and events for organizations including ACT UP, GLAAD, APLA, HRC, and Gay and Lesbian Elder Housing. After Proposition 8 banned gay marriage in 2008, the Abbey’s owner David Cooley paid for buses to take protestors downtown.
Categories
Sources
- Denny. “This World-Famous LA Queer Bar Goes on Sale after 30 Years, but Not before Its Dark Past Comes Back to Haunt It.” Reckon, July 19, 2023. https://www.reckon.news/lgbtq/2023/07/this-world-famous-la-queer-bar-goes-on-sale-after-30-years-but-not-before-its-dark-past-comes-back-to-haunt-it.html.
- Headliner. “Chappell Roan: How an Unforgettable Night at a Gay Club Led to Pink Pony Club.” Accessed April 28, 2026. https://headlinerhub.com/chappell-roan-california-here-we-come.html.