New LGBTQ+ Space, Heatwave makes its debut in Orlando's Parramore District
- Alastair Mac
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Heatwave, a new multi-function LGBTQ+ space offers dining, coffee and nightlife.
A new "multi-function LGBTQ+ space" has opened in the former home of Stonewall Bar Orlando at 741 W Church St in the Parramore Neighborhood.
Heatwave soft-opens Friday, August 15, from 5 pm - 2 am, Saturday, August 16, from 10 am - 2 am, Sunday, August 17, from 10 am - 1 am, and Monday, August 18, from 7 am - 1 am.
The building which had been sitting vacant for almost three years since Stonewall closed on New Year’s Eve, 2021, has finally found a new lease of life with new owners, Kevin Varanai and Andrea Dunn transforming the former nightclub into three distinct sections within the property, housing a café, tapas-style restaurant, and entertainment lounge.
Heatwave' features The Green Room, a cafe located on the first floor, opening each day early, then as day turns into night, the venue will transform into a cocktail lounge with small bites by night.
The second floor is home to a duel purpose space, featuring a lounge and dinner theater offering craft cocktails, beer and wine. Live entertainment will include shows, and RuPaul’s Drag Race watch parties! Also on the second floor is The Terrace, an outdoor space offering dining with shareable plates.
To help the new venue open, co-owners, Kevin Varanai and Andrea Dunn received financial support via the Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency, which awarded a grant worth over $130,000 to help with building improvements, and rent assistance.
Prior to the opening, Andrea commented, "Kevin and I dreamed up this space as a place where people can come together, feel safe, and thrive. It’s not just about amazing food and drinks (though trust me, we’ve got those!), but we wanted to create a space where creativity, conversation, and community collide in the best way possible." She continued, "Being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community isn’t just something I say, it’s who I am. I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside this community, inspired by its strength, joy, and resilience. Heatwave is my way of giving back to a group of people who’ve had such a huge impact on my life. My hope is that Heatwave feels like a place where you’re always seen and celebrated. I can’t wait to welcome you and create some incredible memories together!! Get ready to feel the warmth, energy, and love at Heatwave!"
Kevin added, "Heatwave ORL was born from a desire to create a space where all queer individuals and our fiercest allies can meet up, connect, and feel at home. My co-founder Andrea and I want to go beyond cute bites and drinks by building a “third space” that’s a hub for conversation, creativity, and community. Every detail, from the shareable plates, crafted cocktails, and the space itself has been designed with the intention of bringing people together and celebrating the diversity of our community."
Kevin added, "For me, being queer is at the heart of everything I do and I can’t wait to begin this journey with all of you. I’m not a big developer with deep pockets or someone looking to make a quick buck. I want to give back to the Orlando community that continues to make me feel comfortable in my own skin. I hope Heatwave does the same for you and I can’t wait for you to experience what we’ve created!"
For more details on Heatwave, check out their website, https://www.heatwaveorl.com/ or Facebook Page.
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