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BS West
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 1 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Wed, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
49 reviews for BS West
Review Highlights
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"BS West is hands down the best gay bar in Phoenix." In 10 reviews -
"...great music, and show the music videos on the wall as your..." In 4 reviews -
"Friendly bartenders, cheap drinks, good-looking crowd..." In 5 reviews
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49 reviews in English
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Review from April Q.
2/7/2012
I gotta tell you - for a bachelorette party, this is THE place to go. My bf's bachelorette party was held here after dinner and, at first, I was a little bit worried I'd experience the same crap as Axis/Radius for my last friend's bachelorette party (I was hard of hearing for the next full day and the crowd was so lame, I just wanted to sit on the side and count how many girls looked like 'ladies of the night') but to my pleasant surprise, this place totally impressed me! Here is why:
Disclaimer: I am a happily married straight gal, LOVE to dance techno
1- the crowd was 80% gay men, which was perfect since it meant I wasn't going to get dumb guys trying to hit on me (hello! don't you see my shiny ring AND the fact that I'm NOT dressed like a 'lady of the night' trying to get your attention) or trying to literally pull me away from my friends to dance (freak) with them.
2- the gals that were there were gay/tran/etc and not the prostitute-looking, dumb 'barely dressed' broads (as typical of lots of Scottsdale clubs) you have to deal with that take up room on the dance floor and aren't even dancing (they're just standing there trying to look hot).
3- the bartender dudes were awesome - friendly, generous with the many shots we bought and I NEVER had to 'wait' for the bartender or try to get his attention - they were very attentive and actually friendly! ALSO, their drinks were strong! not watered down.
4- the atmosphere is fun - the place is a bit dark and dive-y looking inside (and out), but once you get the music going and the crowd thickens up, it is fun! Also, a major thing to me - the music was perfectly amplified such that my ears were not ringing even though I was on the dance floor all night. Also the club patrons were not like the A/R patrons.. friendlier, fun to dance with, cuter boys! Also, since it was a bachelorette party, a lot of the gay men there were kind enough to buy the bride plenty of drinks and even take her out for plenty of dancing.
5- the owner came by and offered our bride-to-be an oh-so-sexy dance with 2 of the better looking go-go dancer dudes (I thought that was cool of the owner to set up).
I don't even club but I'd say that if I am ever invited to go clubbing again in Scottsdale, I am all for visiting this gay club!
The only down sides:
The bathroom line was rediculously long.. outdoor 'patio' is kinda slummy. -
Review from Mandy R.
Portland, OR
1/10/2012
1st time there: 5 stars, everyone was super nice, the drinks were strooong (and fairly priced), and the music was bumpin. We actually stumbled across this place by accident on our way to White House (which was a total bust). We would catch glimpses of lights and people dancing in between several buildings and I was like wtf is this, we must find this magical place, and we eventually did.
2nd-4th time there: 5 stars. We got there early-ish on a Friday/Sat. night for the 2 for 1 drinks and got some seriously strong creations. Pregame buzz accomplished. This would be our first stop for a night out.
5th time there: 2 stars. The service wasn't very good and my bf and his two guy friends (mind you they are all verrry open) were treated rudely by several people in there. The drinks I ordered (3 makers marks) apparently were NOT on the 2fer list and cost me $57....are you shitting me, it's makers mark, and we're not in LA. So a combo of the bartender taking his sweet time, being charged that much, and then not at least getting three "chips" for free drinks, plus people being rude to half of our group created a vibe that was totally off that night and I was annoyed.
6th time there: 4 stars. Came on a tuesday night with a coworker for the drag talent show and it was pretty fun. Not too many people, but enough to have the energy at a good level. The queens and kings were awesome and I got some sweet tips from one of the performers about how to mix red glitter with blistex to get the look she had (cherry red glittery lips...aka vegas here I come) -
Review from Jared R.
San Francisco, CA
3/31/2012
This place is a ton of fun, seriously. And it's a place where gays, straights, and lesbians exist harmoniously. Which is rare. There's a patio, a lounge upstairs and at least a few good looking folks. It warms up after 10, so if you go earlier, it'll be pretty empty, so wait it out. The drinks are pricey but not insane ($9 for a decent pour Absolut Vodka). I've been here twice (one Wednesday and one Thursday) and had a great time both times.
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Review from Danielle T.
Scottsdale, AZ
4/16/2012 3 Check-ins Here
I really like this place. It's always a fun time when we go out here. Since I first went there way back when, it was tiny and cramped, but since then, they're redone their layout, such as their bathroom and dance floor area. Also, they're extended their patio areas which is fantastic. Love the fact that they have yummy 2-4-1 drinks with the use of their poker chips. I have a few saved so when I need a night out and can't afford it, I use my chips! :) I love the music; they have a DJ and they play music videos that are always fun to dance to and watch as well as the cute go-go dancers lol.
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Review from Gophunk Y.
Phoenix, AZ
9/25/2011
I'm surprised none of the malnourished or obese 'girls' never died from heat exhaustion here yet?
The sound system gives me a headache. My iPhone sounds better.
But it's an ok place for a night out to catch up with peeps. -
Review from Alie C.
9/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Finally got a chance to check this place out last night. We went early because we didn't want to deal with the massive amount of people that usually show up on a Saturday night. It's pretty small so I can see why it fills up so quickly. They have an upstairs area and a patio as well though. Our drinks were decently priced, but the bartender wasn't that friendly at all. It was kind of a bummer.
I will be back, because I have heard that other bartenders are more friendly and on busy nights it's a lot of fun. -
Review from Jeanette A.
Mesa, AZ
1/30/2012
First time there was great. I danced til my feet went numb and drank til I forgot where I was. It was great. Bachelorette parties should always hit this place up for good, strong, cheap drinks, and nonstop dancing (with gorgeous men nonetheless). I've been there quite a few times since my first time, went there last Friday night, and I'm going back this Saturday. Thursdays and Saturdays are club nights. Friday night was a drag show and it was a blast. My husband tagged along and really enjoyed the strong drinks and impersonators. The only downfall to this place is the size. I wish it was bigger. There's a lot of shuffling to get around.
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Review from Allison E.
Tempe, AZ
8/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Well, what's not to love about a Wednesday night at a packed gay club? Great music, and drinks, but a word to the wise...when they say the drink special is buy one get one free, they mean buy this round and we'll give you chips for the second round, not order 4 and we'll charge you for 2.
I would like to see a better dance floor there too, I kinda felt like I was dancing in the walkway, too close to the bar, or generally in peoples' way.
If you want a sweaty, loud, eye-raped by the same sex kind of a party, then BS west is your place! -
Review from Will K.
10/13/2010
Where to begin... hmmm how about a gay bar in a shopping center? What the hell is wrong with Scottsdale???
The entire experience with BS West was.. well BS. I think the easiest way to explain my frustration is just bullet points, otherwise I'll get carried away...
*Parking - A freaking mess.
*Staff - Rude as crap.
*Capacity - I understand wanting to make money off the cover.. but having wayyyy too many people inside there is not fun, and also just not safe, they HAD to be over capacity the night I went.
*Customers - ugh. Suburban Hell. It was cute annoying little twinks, their very annoying str8 girlfriends, and some awkward housewives who stumbled in on the way home from Applebees.
All in all, I guess this would be an ideal club for someone who's... 18-22. A twink would love this place, but I've apparently passed over that point in life.. I like my gay bars alittle grittier, the biggest issue was the shopping mall feel for me.Listed in: Gay Bowl X - Phoenix Trip
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Review from Michele M.
Phoenix, AZ
5/12/2011
Friday, a guy at Amsterdam suggested to my co worker who was visiting to go to BS West on Saturday night and that it was the place to be. We got lost in Old Town and had to ask where the heck this place was! It's in the same area of Dos Gringos and Acme, actually it's kinda right behind Acme.
Acme had about a handful of people (it was already 11!), however, you could hear people talking and laughing and there we found the crowds of people in this hidden building, drinking and dancing.
$3 cover. We had to wait about 20 minutes to get a drink. Floor was sticky. They did have go go boy dancers,and for me, I am totally happy with!
I think everyone was there because it was 2-4-1...when we were getting ready to leave..I ran into my best friend's brother who is straight as can be there with his friends (male and female), just drinking away..so definitely if you want cheap drinks in Scottsdale, I would advise to go early. -
Review from Sandy C.
Updated - 7/18/2011
The atmosphere is dead until about 10pm, don't show up too early or else you wouldn't know what to do with yourself. Except maybe going out to the patio for a smoke. It was 2 for 1 drinks on this particular Saturday evening, but how the F*** (excuse my french), did they charge me $29 FOR A SHOT OF PATRONE?? I seriously almost asked the bartender to undo the transaction, but I didn't want to start any trouble. $5 cover to get in. This place is fun, but damn, it hurts my wallet to just stay and have a few drinks.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/2/2010
Free admission, cheap drinks, very colorful drags and go-go dancers running around in white tighty… Read more »
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Review from George A.
11/9/2010 2 Check-ins Here
When I was living in AZ I went to BS West maybe a handful of times. Now when I come back to visit I pretty much go there anytime I'm in Scottsdale!
I've only been here on Fridays & Saturdays (I hear Wednesday karaoke is supposed to be fun though) and I've never been disappointed. Most of the time when I come here its at the end of the night when I'm already a little bit tipsy anyway, which might be part of the reason I love it so much, but BS West has the funnest crowd in Scottsdale! I don't know if it's coincidence, but I noticed the past few time I've been here the place seems to be more crowded (the last Saturday I was here they were actually charging a $3 cover, which I normally HATE, but I didn't mind it here), which makes it all the more fun!
The place itself is kind of divey, but I like the layout. There's a small patio when you first walk in and one that's slightly larger in the back. There's a dance area as well as the required dance area stripper poles (which are always occupied...often times by beautiful people who I'm assuming are paid to "hang out" on them...but sometimes by ummm...amateurs). The DJ usually plays good music and they're always showing the usual gay bar music videos (some are fun/campy...some I can do without).
The bartenders are awesome as well! They're friendly, move fast, and use a pretty heavy pour.
When I'm in Scottsdale I always come to BS West!Listed in: I'm in Scottsdale!
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Review from Bonnie G.
Tempe, AZ
5/15/2007 ROTD 5/13/2008
3 and a half, really
My first experience at BS West was at a GLAAD event with my lady friend from outta state to experience gay Snobbsdale...for charity!! And booze!
It was really hard to find this place and we just opted for 5 buck valet service rather than dealing with the headache of parking on a Friday night in Scottsdale. We had to wander around some guys in tuxes playing classical music outside some chi chi restaurant (?) before finally finding BS West. Since I had paid for our membership to GLAAD, we got to go upstairs and start boozin. Absolut drinks FREE-all right! I even got some nifty Absolut rainbow sweat bands (sweeeet for tennis!) and I liked the bartenders a lot. Unfortunately there were like NO ladies...or they were straight. Snark. We still had a great time, and I had to go to Mickeys Hangover near by to eat something, that is how much free booze I consumed.
Other times I have been here has been on Wednesdays-omg, the pheremones here are lavish. Oozing with testorone and doin' it juice. And of course...no ladies who like ladies. Well, maybe one lady couple. Out of a thousand gay guys. Sigh. But it was 2-4-1 night and I got rightly hammered. The bartenders here are super nice and never felt ignored-although you might get quicker service upstairs if you can manage the stairs. I dance, even though the dance floor isn't always jumping-I mean Fergie remix? I am there, ready to hump an unsuspecting male with a faux hawk! There is a smoking courtyard where it seems some hookups occur with ravishing frequency-jinkies! Who knew Marlboro reds incurred such ravenous carnal desires?
Overall, a good time with friends with hardly any for the gay lady in your life...unless you spend that 35 bucks on GLAAD and get free booze at any GLAAD event (YAY! BOOZE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE)...Listed in: Sorry, Scottsdale!, This is Why, This is Why, This…
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Review from Aaron G.
3/9/2009
This place was the beginning of the end for me. For those of you who know me, know what this means. Otherwise, ignore that last comment.
I came here on a Wednesday night and the 2 for 1 deals totally killed me. Not only were the drinks reasonably priced but they were reasonably poured. Everything i had was in a pint glass. How often do you get greyhounds in a a pint glass? Needless to say after 3 drinks i was partying it up on the dance floor. I love me some dance music!! They played Untouched by The Veronicas. That song is all i need to make any night complete at a club. There was also quite a bit of eye candy, even if my friend said all the uglies were out that night. I really can't complain about this place, but this night turned out to be super awesome and memorable! -
Review from Morgan D.
4/4/2010
I had a total freak-out moment at BS. My best friend is gay and so I find myself here on a somewhat regular basis. The last time I went I think I was having an existential crisis. I had just died my hair red and my reflection in all the damn mirrors inside BS was freaking my drunk self out. I bailed on my friends and ended up in a cab that cost double the normal price from Old Town to my house. Not a good night.
If you're a straight girl, BS will either bring a little bit of the bi-curious out in you or you will find yourself saddened by the fact that the incredible hot go-go dancer would rather be touched by your gay friend than you.
This place gets packed and sometimes, when it gets all hot, sweaty and crowded I get panicky like I need a good slap in the face to calm down. Seriously, don't wear your good shoes. Someone will spill a drink on them right before they step on you.
In all seriousness, they have two for one drink chips, fun music, and hot male go-go dancers in their underwear - what's not to love about that? It's also the only place in Scottsdale where I've played spin the bottle since high school. They have this weird little make-out/VIP room upstairs. Just make sure to pee before you go. The bathroom situation is a nightmare.Listed in: I'm in Scottsdale, trick.
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Review from Kyle K.
Tempe, AZ
1/22/2009
I love BS West. But more as a novelty than anything else. I'm not sure if I would necessarily classify this place as "unpretentious." There is certainly some diva spiciness in the air here. But at the same time, it's friendly and fun. The crowd is consists solely of sexed up, well-groomed 20 somethings. And that one older skinny guy with platinum hair and the Bono earring.
BS is really only busy on Wednesdays when they have their 2-for-1 drink special all night. Then, it's packed. Wall to wall. Unfortunately, the drinks aren't so great. You really have to know the bartenders for them to make you a good one, with so many free drinks flying around (and people not tipping when they get them,) they slack. You might be better off opting for beer.
For us smokers, the proximity of the patio to the bar and dancefloor is nice. In other words, you don't have to isolate yourself to have a smoke. It's all one big churning pot of hair product and muscle, baby. This the place to people watch; ridiculousness abounds without fail. But the best thing about this place is undeniably its dancefloor. There are giant video screens in sync with what's playing (and no ADD DJ mixes). One of the best gay bars in Phoenix to dance at for sure. Nothing tired and stereotypical, just good booty music. Sometimes you need to get toasted and have a little Beyonce in your life. This is the place to do that. -
Review from Larry G.
6/18/2008
A small bar, if you're used to them...like me from DC and San Antonio. Believe me, the gay bars in San Antonio are small! So, I wasn't like WTF...kinda like a "second home" if you will.
For those of you who have read my reviews...know that I drink Long Island Tea and use that as a test if they do it well. Well, I was disappointed. I'm supposed to have a buzz before I even finish my first LIT. After 2 LIT, no buzz. Just give me water, honey.
However, I didn't go there to get drunk. Hung out with a couple of friends. Checked out the guys that were eyeing us and of course, we were gossiping like the hens we are. Checked out the dancers. Am I getting old or are the dancers getting younger? B-itch! Maybe I should've had a third LIT.
BTW, if you're a smoker and you've run out of cigarettes, just go to the bar and buy a pack. I'm not sure if it applies to the entire state, but Phoenix and Scottsdale are smoke-free so you'll have to smoke outside. BS has an enclosed patio for you to hang out.
Decent little place.Listed in: Arizona
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Review from Tommy G.
Scottsdale, AZ
10/15/2008
It does not get much better than this, fellas.
BS West is hands down the best gay bar in Phoenix.
Friendly bartenders, cheap drinks, good-looking crowd, great music..it's definitely got it all.
Best night to check out is the obvious 2-4-1 Wednesday.
Thursdays and Sundays can also be fun if you're into karaoke. Saturdays are a nice alternative if you don't really dig Forbidden or Amsterdam, it's a different crowd.
It definitely has a "Cheers" feeling to it... not pretentious whatsoever. Great patios too, especially the back one with the new video screen they installed.
Oh, and their Halloween bash is THE party to be at. 3,000 people attended in 2007. -
Review from Andrew C.
Manhattan, NY
9/9/2010 7 Check-ins Here
Yes, I am the duke of BS west (at the time of writing).
No, I do not currently live in Scottsdale (or Arizona for that matter).
Yes, I think this place is a solid 4-stars!
Let me explain what's amazing about this place in reference to the bars in San Francisco:
1. 2 for 1 drinks Wednesday and Saturdays ALL NIGHT. Yea, shut the loose hole! This is an amazing deal! Our happy hour specials are 2-4-1 until 8 or 9, if we're lucky!
2. You know all the boys will either be here or only 2 other places on any given night. I actually think it sucks wet pussy to have to navigate 10-20 bars just to find fresh meat. (not that I ever do... but it's the principle of the thing).
3. Service is actually amazing! Drinks come to you! The bar tenders make 'em strong (especially the gal towards the smoking patio).
4. 2 smoking patios?! NOICE. Many bars in SF require you to go outside!.. it just becomes a pain.
5. They accept card. In the event you didn't know this, many places in SF don't....
You may be a local and hate this place for what it is, but for someone who spends extended amount of time in the area every so often, I find it a great place to be near fagily (fag family). -
Review from Caleb W.
Scottsdale, AZ
3/6/2011
With 2-4-1's on Wed and Sat., music is a blend of old school dance hits with current pop remixes. The videos are quickly becoming my favorite. The go go dancers take up more space than necessary but they're nice to look at.
The staff is super cute but don't expect them to remember who you are or what you ordered.
Be careful with the eye contact, boys, because this place turns into a real meat market. Guys don't know their boundaries so it's a great place to hook up or show off your hot boyfriend.
After last night's experience I have a few suggestions for BS- forget the expanded front patio or if they're going to keep it big then invest in port-a-potties, and hire another patio server. At 11:30 I felt claustrophobic and it only got worse from there. Straight, drunk chicks, who think we're remotely interested in what they have to offer, should check out Dos Gringo's next door. It's a gay bar honey, I don't care how nice your chi chi's are.
It's not that I miss the exclusivity of Old Town's BS West but I miss chatting with friends without people bumping into you, being able to go pee, and wanting to dance. Maybe it was just the wacky 'Heaven & Hell Mardis Gras' themed night (I was confused too) but this has slowly become a common occurrence with this bar and it's rather depressing. The crowd is constantly evolving due to nearby ASU but it's not always a good thing.
Change is inevitable but BS should check themselves before they wreck themselves (I couldn't think of any other way to state that). -
Review from Pity D.
Compton, CA
7/16/2008
They put on a pretty good Halloween party. That's the only time I've been there. So that's what the 4 stars are for.
But I just read they have karaoke.
So I think I'll have to go kill it with my best "Pour Some Sugar On Me" and come back to this review. -
Review from Stephanie G.
Scottsdale, AZ
3/8/2010
This place is AWESOME. I am personally not gay but have good friends who are and we always have a good time here. The drinks are cheap and strong and the bartenders/staff are always so welcoming and nice. If you wanna go dancing-this place has a great little area with awesome DJ's playing the best of the top 20's and more.
I've been going here with my friends for the past 2 years or so and always have a great time. -
Review from Annalisa N.
San Diego, CA
3/2/2009
Morgan, Kim, Correy and I went here to celebrate my bday. Ummm, I told them it was a BOY BAR! DUH! Anyway, the 4 of us lezzies went there on Kim's prior experience on New Years Eve, when "there were women there"... LOL... It was pretty empty. We went upstairs, did the cake thing... had a couple margaritas, which weren't very good (big surprise there). Watched some videos on the flat screens... drooled over Pre-Mark Anthony J-Lo! AHAHAHA... Then decided to treck over to 7th Ave.
I'm sure its more fun on Wednesdays, said the bartender.
He was really nice btw... let us light candles and do our thing :o) Thanks guy (don't remember his name).
You should go here if you're a muscle bound 20 something guy... this place is for you :o)
Told you Kim! -
Review from Juan H.
San Diego, CA
7/17/2011
BS West has not changed. It is still an overpriced, unfriendly, cliquish place where anyone who does not frequent the place will be stared at and commented about by loud drunks in the dark corners. This is the kind of place which reinforces negative gay stereotypes and gives straight people the feeling they are at a zoo, observing gay people in their natural habitat. The best part about going here is leaving and not looking back.
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Review from Stevey P.
Phoenix, AZ
5/14/2007
Abercrombie, Hollister, AE, oh my!
That about sums up the crowd at BS West - at least on 2-4-1 (yep, two for one drinks all night!) Wednesdays - their busiest night. I'm not a big fan of this place as the crowd is pretty young and obnoxious -- drawing in my least favorite crowds: gay ASU guys and the Scottsdale/East Valley gays.
Weekends are a bit more subdued, and might be a better time to check BS out, and on Thursdays and Sunday they do some karaoke. Gays and karaoke? Who would have thought.
It can be a very fun time if you go with your friends. There's a nice loungey room upstairs with couches and a pool table (which I'm sure is fun on other days when it's not so crowded). The music is dance/top 40 with accompanying MTV videos on the big screens. It gets very busy, and with the north patio doors flung open, it can get downright STEAMY (and not in a good way) in there.
Since the renovation about a year ago they enlarged the dance floor, the unisex bathrooms are larger and much nicer and they added a south patio. But it's still packed as ever as this is the only gay bar in Scottsdale, the closest gay bar to ASU and the closest one to Mesa.
Second to Amsterdam I would consider this the most straight-friendly gay bar (aren't they all?) with several straight girls in the house each week. -
Review from Christine O.
Phoenix, AZ
9/5/2008
We went here after amateur night at the Comedy Spot (it's literally a block away). It was around midnight on a Saturday. Our cocktail server was extremely efficient and attentive; it was top-notch service, especially for a busy weekend night. The drinks were a little weak, but they were on the larger side and not too expensive. One of the people in our group complained that his double Patron shots were really small and he was right. For $18 or so a pop, those shots should have been more than generous singles.
I loved the layout of the place, the variety of seating (high tables to stand around, high bars with stools, lower tables with chairs), and the clean bathrooms. The biggest disappointment of our short time there was not getting to sing karaoke, which was going at full blast when we arrived. My husband and I each put a song in as soon as we arrived, but after 45 minutes (when everyone in our group was tired and waiting to go home), we still hadn't gotten called. I don't like when KJs don't go out of their way to welcome new singers and to insert them into the existing rotation, especially since we heard the same people sing two times in the time we were waiting to sing once. On the upside, the song list was good, the singers were above-average, and I liked the little space they had for singers to stand (eat your heart out, Apollo's!).
Since we live pretty far from here, I probably won't be back. I'd rather spend my karaoke budget at Kobalt or Apollos. That being said, if you live close by or happen to be in the area for something else, it's a pretty lively spot with great service and talented karaoke singers.Listed in: Karaoke for Karaoke Lovers
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Review from Daniel E.
5/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Good Ol' BS West!!! Mike Fornelli and staff know how to throw a great party everytime I am there!
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Review from Max A.
12/13/2007
I wrote this in my blog on May 4 2007 - this is part 1, part 2 is in my review of Burn nightclub. Just to clarify, I'm not a gay hater or phobic or whatever in any way. This was written tongue-in-cheek. I've actually been to BS West quite a few times - my feelings about it are that it's kinda lame for a gay scene. I've seen better. It's a decent little bar though in its own right. Anyway - here's my blog as it appeared:
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So last weekend was apparently 'Gay Weekend' - it was purely unintentional though. Accidental gayness to be sure.
I was hanging out on Friday with my straight lesbian friend (she insists she's straight and that her girlfriend is as well - either way it gives me 'the hot,' so I don't question it) trying to show her around the cool parts of town so she doesn't decide to move pack it up and move away. She lives in the worst and most isolated ghetto in the valley. After moving here from a much cooler city and state, she's ready to get the fuck out of here after less than a year. I can't really blame her.
Anyway - we were in downtown Scottsdale walking around and we had parked in a parking garage that was next to this tucked away gay bar called BS West. I asked her if she wanted to go there since it was 'her people' and she did, so we did. The first person we saw was a crossdresser (I'll get to that in a bit), and when we walked in - she made a beeline for the bathroom. I followed and hung out near the door with my back facing the wall - trying to act casual while avoiding surprise anal rape attack.
She 'came out' and we got ourselves a drink and found a quiet observer spot outside so we could spy on the gays in their natural habitat. It was mostly dudes in this place - almost no lesbians. The guys at this place ranged from nearly middle-aged guys in hawaiian shirts, shorts and sandals to skinny young emo pretty boys.
The drinks were pretty stiff, but the atmosphere was dead, so we headed out after one drink. We accidently opened the door to a freezer or storage room instead of finding the exit... I think we were both concentrating on not getting surprise attack analy raped. The rest of the night went on without incident. At one point we were invited to this club called Burn in Phoenix by this girl who showed me where BS West was in the first place when I tagged along with her and the fags to her hag. We respectfully declined, but made a mental note of the fact that we were 'missing out' on all the hot sexy single ladies.
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New content:
With regard to the mention of that first visit to BS West - it was pretty amusing actually... this was ages ago... but the first time I had met with my friend's gay pals was this night - my first visit to BS West - and we got out of the car and started towards BS West. I thought we were headed to Loco Patron where I had previously had a horrible experience and I said "oh, fuck this - I'm not going here!" and got all viciously adamant about it.
My friend's gay friends went through a spectrum of emotion ranging from confusion, curiosity, intolerance, and disgust. They thought I didn't want to go to BS West because it was a gay bar and that I was a horrible asshole. Once near the door and inside, I realized my mistake and spent the next half hour feeling like a shit heel and saying my sorries. I don't think I ever fully recovered from that first impression, but I'm friends with one of those guys now at least. -
Review from Tanner B.
Phoenix, AZ
4/21/2010
Love this place!! It's by far my favorite bar in the Phoenix area.
The drinks are always cheap- especially if you come on a Wednesday or Saturday when everything is 2-4-1.
They always play great music, and show the music videos on the wall as your favorite songs are playing.
Even my straight girl friends agree that this is the most fun bar in town! -
Review from Angie L.
Scottsdale, AZ
11/28/2011
I went this past Saturday with two of my girl friends. I just relocated to the Greater Phoenix area the end of March. I had been dying to go to a gay club because I left my gay male friends back in the Midwest. And I miss being in touch with the gay community. Heh, yes..I'm a fag hag and proud of it! Anyway, we got there around 10 and the place wasn't warmed up yet. But after an hr or so the place got packed! $5 cover and 2-4-1 drinks. They pour stiff drinks in the taller glasses. I had my fill and I was in da club gettin' tipsy! I danced with all kinds of nice gays, shared a drink or two, and even made some new friends! They had go-go dancers which were easy on the eyes. My friends and I sat outside for a bit and were waited on by a very friendly server. There was even a cute twink that would come around with jello shots..the music videos were a nice touch. They had a great line-up of music..I was very excited about it! Of course, this was my first gay bar in Arizona, but I had a wonderful time!
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Review from Candace R.
Tempe, AZ
5/27/2010
I just walked in the door from BS West, and I thought I had reviewed it, but I hadn't, so here it is.
I love BS West. Granted, it's my second gay club experience (second to Forbidden, which is kind of like a joke now), but I have always have a great time. I've only frequented on Wed., Thurs., and Sat., which are pretty popular nights, especially with the 2for1 drinks. Like others have mentioned, the drinks are strong and the bartenders are really nice. I usually copy what my friends get to drink since I'm not yet an avid alcoholic, so when I asked one of the bartenders upstairs what he recommended, he steered me in the right direction to Tokyo Teas which I absolutely adore.
The DJ on Thurs. is typically this "older" gent who plays weird remixes, but tonight the DJ was younger and pretty crackin'.
I honestly really just enjoy seeing people of all types, straight/bi/gay, black/white, "insert more MJ lyrics here", out having a good time. It gets hot as hell inside and a little crowded on the dance floor, but BSW rox my soxListed in: Faves4ever
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Review from Emiko N.
Phoenix, AZ
9/12/2009
I love BS West. I know, I'm a sinner. A straight girl in a gay bar but the men are so lovely. It's a fun little place and it seems the DJ has caught up with my dance music tastes (One night he told me when I went to him that he knew what I wanted). So don't be too afraid to ask the DJ for what you want.
It's a fun night when the cross-dressers come out. I love it. -
Review from Thomas S.
Phoenix, AZ
4/30/2008
Wednesday nights fellas. And gals. And pals of fellas and gals. That's really the only night to go. If you want a sea of Ambercrombie & Fitched, ASU, faux-hawked boy toys. Wednesday night is jamming. More underage boys than a pool party at David Geffen's house. Other nights. Not so much. And those were the nights I found myself having a drink with friends after work. And it was cool. The owners are really stand up guys. Karaokee nights were prime, full of prima donnas with plenty of jokers like me to lighten the mood. BS always has great 2-4-1 nights, so look for them. But, hey, a gay bar in oldtown Scottsdale, still standing after all these years is pretty damn cool. A great way to diffuse the testosterone and silicone driven crowd that inhabits the other pubs and eateries. BS? What's it stand for? Hmm...must be Boys Shopping. Cheers!
Listed in: Places To Get Your Gay On!, Rainbows, Chaps & Unicorns
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Review from Calder G.
Phoenix, AZ
8/29/2010
Shithole full of drama queens
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Review from Nini N.
Scottsdale, AZ
6/26/2011
WARNING! RIPPED OFF! (Read the review below then my edit at the end.)
The first time I went to BS West I had a blast! I'm a straight person but I loved a club that expressed an open mind and individuality so I invited friends to join me the next time I went.
I've only been there Saturday nights, when the club has a $3 cover and 2 for 1 drinks, those are smoking deals and I've never had a problem til tonight.
The bartenders tend to be the same in each area. I find the ones upstairs to be a lot more friendly. I had gotten my drinks and tokens up stairs but getting a drink downstairs was another issue.
THIS REVIEW IS FOR THOSE WHO PLAN ON GETTING DRINKS AT THE CLUB: I asked for a long island (comes in a regular plastic cup) the bartender downstairs asked if I wanted to leave a tab open or just pay for the drink, I decided on the latter. He passed me the bill...it was $19....FOR 1 DRINK (ON A 2/4/1 NIGHT!) WTF. I had a feeling they tend to take advantage of the patrons later on seeing as most are probably to drunk to realize what they just paid for. I'm one of those people who just don't argue it (karma is a...well you know) and in turn I will just never return (or at least drink at another bar before coming here)
This is really disappointing. :(
I won't advise anyone from not going here, everyone but the bartenders downstairs have been so friendly and not trying to rip you off, but if I had to give any advice...pregame before...it's not worth it.
--So later I realized that not only was it Saturday's 2/4/1 night (that apparently you pay $19 for 1 drink for) but it's also a $3 cover to get in. I paid for two of my friends to get in also ($9 total) I handed the big lady at entrance a $20 bill (she's been there taking the cash both times I've went so it's not like she's new to this) She in turn hands me $5 in change. (It should have been $11, even if she thought I handed her a $10 bill it was obvious she knew she was ripping me off, unfortunately I didn't realize it until later).
THIS IS A WARNING FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T BEEN THERE BEFORE. THEY WILL TAKE YOUR MONEY IF YOU'RE NOT CAREFUL. I guess just thinking this place was full of awesome people and trusting them to be welcoming is not enough.
I will be writing a letter to them, even though nothing can be done, it's just EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTING. :( -
Review from Sean B.
10/24/2007
It's the quintessential charming dive bar... sexy guys, cheap drinks, especially on 2-for-1 Wednesdays, and easy parking make for a fun combination when you're just not feeling like putting on the Armani. You will not stick out in flip flops and cargo shorts here. It's just fun and frat-party-esque for nights you're just not feelin' the bouzhy scene.
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Review from Erica C.
Mesa, AZ
5/29/2010
Now, you must understand that I just moved from Chicago where we have our very own gay sections of the city called Boystown and Andersonville. I miss the land of widely accepted homosexuality that I traded for the desert. Keep in mind, I am no gay man, but a gay woman that actually gets along with the boys.
I first ventured to BS West for a massive birthday party and just in time to catch their drag show on a Friday or Saturday night. From the outside it looks huge, but once you get inside don't be afraid of a little body rubbing. The queens put on a great show and afterwards they had some heavenly looking man meat for go-go dancers take the floor in tight banana huggers. (Was that graphic enough?)
There are random TV screens strewn about upstairs and downstairs with a video going along with the music, typical. I could say that the music selection was a little drab. I like just a little more house and a little less Top 40 hip/hop remix. The bartenders are quick to get your order. The drinks aren't the strongest, but the price won't break your wallet. That's always nice.
I have returned on 2 other occassions after discovering there are no lesbian bars in this great city. Well, let me say lesbian bars with lesbians that don't look like your brother. So, I will continue to have a fabulous time with my gay men at BS West and stare at the pretty straight girls who aren't afraid to dance with a straight looking gay lady. -
Review from Nick S.
San Diego, CA
5/21/2008
Well from what I understand its one of the most popular Gay bars in the Scottsdale area. First of all i am not gay but dont mind traveling around with my friends who are and having a couple of drinks. I ventured into BS West only once but when i was there i was rather dissappointed in the scene. It was a karoeke night so overcourse there were attempts a singing but mostly just screaching into the microphone. Not a bad patio area, I hope it has better nights.
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Review from don s.
Paradise Valley, AZ
11/24/2010
Way too many breeder bitches clogging the place up on Saturday nights all dressed up like bimbos. More vaginas than hot men dancing shirtless. It's turning into a straight bar. I stand a better chance of finding a C**k to suck at Dos Gringos.
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Review from w w.
Scottsdale, AZ
2/23/2007 1 photo
I used to go to BS West all the time. I haven't been lately, but I'm supposed to be going again next week with one of my friends. BS is an alternative bar with a largely male crowd. But you'll find that quite a few girls go too, as well as the occasional transvestite.
It's just such a fun place and I've never had a bad time when I've gone- it's kind of impossible I think. You have the option of hanging out on their patio, in the main bar or going upstairs and they're always playing the best music. They also have TV's all around the bar that play music videos.
The bathrooms are pretty much unisex, so you'll be in there with anyone and everyone, but no one seems to mind. There's a little dance floor too that gets really packed and everyone is just out to have a great time.
One thing I've noticed about BS is that it gets very hot in there. A little air conditioning can go a long way and in the summer, it can get pretty uncomfortable. But other than that, I recommend BS to everyone- any night of the week.
