The eminently swell White Heart Bar & Cocktail Lounge (551 Congress St., 207-828-1900) lies in the ever-trendifying heart of Portland's Downtown Arts District, just across the street from the celebrated Five Fifty-Five bistro and close to several hotels and arts venues. It's not a gay bar per se, but in the style of this progressive, welcoming Maine metropolis, the White Heart has a totally mixed following of gays and straights, men and women, students and professionals, artists and bankers - you name it.
This inviting little study in hipster-swish and art deco style has trance-y dancing to DJs or live music most nights, a well-designed drinks menu of natty cocktails and globally representative wines and beers, and a notable menu of mod victuals. It's a terrific spot to lounge with friends or kick off a night of partying, perhaps before venturing a few blocks to the city's more traditional gay dance clubs and bars.
