Krave nightclub draws gay, straight, local, tourist crowds

Here's one possible criterion for a great gay/lesbian nightclub: Not only do straight people want to go there, they feel comfortable there when they do.

It's a standard that has been working for Krave for about 41/2 years now. Today, the 17,000-square-foot club in the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood has become a popular destination for a diverse universe of patrons, gay, straight, local and tourist.

Krave is "the only gay and lesbian club on the Strip," says Michael Palmer, the club's general manager, but it's "very straight-friendly. About 25 percent of our customer base is the straight crowd."

What's the attraction? Krave's entertainment offerings go beyond the standard DJ/go-go dancer combo to also include stage acts and aerialists.

Sometimes, Palmer says, performers from shows on the Strip will stop by to "do a small scene from one of their shows."

Krave, which can accommodate about 1,500 revelers, also is home to "probably the biggest dance floor on the Strip," Palmer says, as well as popular VIP sections and five cabanas that can be rented out for large parties.

"It's just a fun environment, and everyone is welcome," he says.

Krave has become so successful that Palmer says it's even "branching out a bit" by taking over the upper level of the former Jillian's downtown. That space will take the form of a "gay sports bar" featuring bowling and billiards.

And, in the meantime, Krave continues to attract its diverse, inclusive crowd.

"The only thing I could say is, it's a place where no one judges your intentions," Palmer says. "It's just a relaxed atmosphere."

Krave, at 3663 Las Vegas Blvd. South, is open six days a week (closed Mondays) from 11 p.m. until 4 or 5 a.m. On Saturday nights, after-hours festivities begin at about 4 a.m. and run to 8 or 9 a.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday cover is free for locals and $10 for out of state. Thursday cover (which includes open bar) is $10 for locals and $15 for tourists. Friday and Saturday main room cover is free for locals and $20 for all others.

For more information, call 836-0830.

Contact reporter John Przybys at jprzybys@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0280.