Gym Bar, New York, New York

"Join the Gym," proclaims the website for Chelsea's friendly and immensely popular gay sports bar, aptly called, Gym (167 8th Ave., 212-337-2439). The spacious, well-lighted, and relatively low-keyed bar with a terrace (used primarily by smokers) overlooking busy 8th Avenue is sandwiched between the Joyce Theater and Pride NYC gay DVD and sex shop. It's refreshing that New York City has a gay sports bar after many years without one. That being said, the sports theme is always especially apparent - it feels just like a pleasant and nicely laid-out gym and has a very nice pool table, exposed-brick walls, wood floors, and large TV screens that do sometimes air sporting events. But you're not going to find the space festooned with trophies, banners, and sports memorabilia, which is just fine with its regulars, who appreciate the relaxed yet still somewhat sophisticated look of the place. In addition to hosting members of various gay New York sports teams, the bar draws a diverse bunch, especially in terms of age - you'll see all generations here, including plenty of butch men in jeans and T-shirts (it's not dressy at all, even after work). And the scene is quite friendly by Chelsea standards. One nice thing about Gym is that it draws decent-size early in the evening, and even during afternoons on weekends. The staff is very friendly, too.