Jacques Cabaret

79 Broadway St, Boston, MA 02116, United States
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Jacques Cabaret
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Le
Review №1

I had a great time in this bar until I was harassed by one of the men working the bar.During one of the drag shows, I saw a man in the audience take pictures of a woman he did not know without her consent and he was taking close picture of her face. There were no performers in the area or in the picture, just an unsuspecting woman who did not consent to this stranger taking her picture without her knowledge.I went to the far side of the bar and told the younger bartender the situation as it made me uncomfortable and seemed creepy so I figured they needed to know for safety purposes. The man I spoke to first was very nice and agreed it was creepy. He said he would keep an eye out which is all I was hoping for.I returned to stand with my friends at the other end of the bar, and the older man behind the bar came up and started yelling at me about making a scene over nothing. He said “why does it matter? She’s not complaining!” And when I said that was because she didn’t know it happened, he responded with “women have been getting their photos taken here for 51 years, get over it!” Then he tried to make me leave. A few minutes later he came back and asked me to “move so I can take a picture” and he tried to take a picture of my face without my consent with his personal phone. I hid behind one of my friends so he couldn’t. He continued making comments to me throughout the night and made the entire space feel unsafe for me.I was just trying to bring sketchy behavior to the managements attention so their patrons could be safe. This bartenders behavior was not only unprofessional it also proves that the safety and security of the bar patrons was not a priority or concern for them.What should have been a quick comment to the bar for safety and awareness’s sake, the bartender escalated things when he wasn’t even the person I brought this to in the first place.

Al
Review №2

This was my first experience at a drag show, and I was excited to see their May 4th special. The performers were a lot of fun and the overall vibe of the club was very relaxed and welcoming. Do be aware that tipping the performers is encouraged, so definitely recommend bringing cash with you to the show! The show was very interactive, with the performers moving around the audience throughout their acts. We had a lot of fun, and would definitely come again.

Od
Review №3

Being a visitor from South Africa we were advised to go to Jacques Cabaret...acting on this advise we made our way there on Saturday and on arrival we were advised the one show is almost ending and the next will start at 9.30 or 10.30 pm but we can pay the 20 dollars entrance and go in and wait for the show. We duly followed this advise and as the audience from the previous show were milling out we continued to sit until we were rudely confronted by an individual who demanded if we had a reservation...screeching into our faces repeatedly...and in the midst of trying to explain we were told to get out, get out! Beyong shocked we made our way back to the cashier who tried to apologize and encouraged us to stay. However, we have never in our lives been subjected to such rude and what seemed to be discriminatory treatment. Unacceptable at any level. We would definitely not return, and I would caution others to think twice before going.It is unfortunate that the response from the restaurant instead of apologizing for what happened compounds it with a lie and suggests that we rolled our eyes and used explicit language. We were too shocked and intimidated to dare to do this. The response attempts to suggest that we were discriminatory which was far from the case.The best way to silence a review is to lie in the response. Otherwise, why would the cashier have apologized to us and encouraged us to stay?

Ta
Review №4

We had an unacceptable experience on saturday and condirm that we were.shouted at and told to get out as we waited for the show that we had paid for. I note the apology from Jacques to the other reviewer, but am disappointed that he has followed this with a counter accusation which ia not true. We were too shocked and intimidated by the behaviour of the individual to even reapond whether by gesture or word, and instead went respectfully to the cashier to complain, and he encouraged us to stay. It is therefor unfair to cast aspersions rather than deal with the unacceptable behaviour of a staff member. Jacques should take this opportunity to address service standards.

Sa
Review №5

This was our finale for a bachelorette party, and it was a great choice. Its a small bar, with some large, and in charge, entertainment. (Its a drag club, so extra flare.) The ladies performing all had their own style, and it was a lot of fun! One of the women did songs that you knew, but with a dirty dirty twist, and she was hilarious to watch perform! My favorite had some serious tude in a great way! She gave grief (in a fun way) to those being cheap and only offering a dollar tip, have some sassy side eye, and other things like it. She also had my favorite performances, too. Most of her outfits had movement to them, or she changed part of the way through, or both. She had some serious moves, too. They pulled all those celebrating birthdays up, and then, they got up all those celebrating engagements. I like that they gave all of the people a second to really shine and celebrate their big event.Also I was in charge of organizing for the bachelorette party, and the guests sucked. I think I called 4 times in one (that day) day to change the number, because of last minute additions and drop outs. They were so great to accommodate me, and Im really grateful that my cousins bachelorette party wasnt ruined by the guests.Great place for a fun night!

Di
Review №6

Its been a while since Ive been but I will never forget that night. Celebrated my 50th birthday with my sisters, daughter and their husbands. The Ladies spotted the men and let them know they didnt go unnoticed.My son just turned 21. So I will be sharing this wonderful show with him and his boyfriend. I know they will have a great time.

Av
Review №7

Amazing place to see drag performers and get drinks. This place is nice because the performers interact with the audience and give a feeling of family. After the show, one of the queens gave me a hug and we took a selfie together.The bar is only serving drinks during the show, and, aside from another patron getting in my space (probably drunk), was very good.The place is great for members of the LGBTQ+ community, but anyone can find lots of fun. There is even a modern jukebox that plays music for a dollar. There is a $15 admission 🎫 and is for individuals 21+. Tipping is recommended for performers but not required. Masks must be worn when not seated at the bar or a table. ID is required and a hand stamp is given for reentry after smoking or vaping. Starting April 2022, there may be open stage nights. Ask a performer after the show about how you can start performing drag.

Mi
Review №8

Wonderful gay bar. Drag stroll was a blast, and karaoke Tuesday was also a good time. Will definitely visit again, made my first time in Boston a memorable one. Thank you for the hospitality.

Tr
Review №9

Great atmosphere, great service, and great drag show performers! There is no food there so eat ahead of time (plenty of other local places to eat). Was a really fun night to celebrate a 50th birthday, was fun to watch others who were out celebrating birthday and bachelor/bachelorette parties. The MC brought them up on stage and the queens interacted with the crowd. Laughed all night!

Em
Review №10

The best drag bar, the best staff, the most magical place! Hard to believe its real when you walk inside, could be anywhere in the world but its in a little alley in Boston

tr
Review №11

We had a blast!! Took my cousin for her 21st birthday and it was the best time! The Queens were amazing and interacted with the crowd. Drinks were stroooong and good- worth the price. I just cant reiterate how much fun we had.

Au
Review №12

Anyone who didn’t leave this LEGENDARY establishment five stars should check themselves. The best dive bar still standing downtown. Shows and performers and staff are tremendous. Real heart and soul and culture here.

Pa
Review №13

We had the best time!!! The performers we amazing and made it a great time for all 😍

Co
Review №14

Thursday night drag show at Jacques was amazing! Would most definitely return! There were two queens and with the smaller size venue the queens were able to get the audience involved in the performances. The drinks were very strong and highly worth the price! Great atmosphere and everyone was so welcoming. You can tell the queens are so passionate about what they do so tip heavy and enjoy it! Truly was an awesome time and I highly recommend!

MJ
Review №15

This place is iconic. Shows start at 8 and bar close at 12 due to neighbors proximity. Drinks are great and decor is eclectic and not new but it whats makes this place so unique. Owner is so friendly and lovely. This is a Boston gay scene gem.

Ro
Review №16

Super fun time. Intimate, high energy show.

An
Review №17

We went for a bachelorette party and had a blast! All of the performers were fantastic. It was a great night and a great show. Perfect mix of music, both current with some throwbacks. The MC was not only hysterical but had amazing dance moves! 💃🏼

Ma
Review №18

I had a great time. A friend and I went there for her birthday, and yes, theres a lot of birthday and wedding parties here, but you know, its fun. The bartender was really nice and the performance was great. I didnt reserve a table, but I had just as much fun at the bar. Its cash only, so just be warned!

Al
Review №19

Planned a stop here for my best friends bachelorette. I made the reservation about 3 months in advance after hearing how quickly the reservations go. We had a group of 10 girls and got to sit in the very front directly by the stage. Ive seen some other reviews on here where people were upset about not getting to see the stage easily. Its a very small venue, so reservations are almost an absolute necessity if youre celebrating something special and want to be immersed in the show. Having such a small venue is actually a plus because the entertainers get to interact with the audience so much that you feel youre a part of the show rather than simply watching it.I was concerned when the show first started because they were lip syncing and the first performer seemed unenthusiastic. However, it soon became apparent that if they didnt lip sync, then that would have made the entertainment pretty difficult--if not impossible--to be so awesome while maintaining singing properly. I also think the unenthusiastic first performer was actually just the personality and style she chose, and I loved how each of the performers had their own style.They called all the bachelors and bachelorettes on stage and asked questions about their proposals. They also interacted with the crowd a lot during the show and made it such a fun and different experience than just bar hopping for the night. We had a great time and I recommend it, as long as you make reservations well in advance to take advantage of prime seating.

La
Review №20

Entertainment for an hour was great, fun and they interact wiith the customer. However, its all reservation tables for bridal party, very few men, and coverage just to get in was $15 a person. Coverage was overpriced for what basically is black painted walls, cheap seating and basic back alleyway bar feel. This one is a toss up, entertainment made it fun , prices however are not reasonable

Ti
Review №21

If you are English and you like a good drag show then do not come here.... The boys prance around miming to the songs, and that is it. There is no audience interaction except when they come round through the crowd (which on the night I was there consisted of three hen parties), expecting you to tip them.... 15 dollar door charge does not help either. The beer is reasonable price though and the bar staff not too unfriendly when they finally see you.

Ma
Review №22

I was here for 2 weeks with a huge group of gays and we really were interested in coming to this bar.We tried Monday...CLOSEDTuesday?.....nope....CLOSEDWe just tried to come tonight and they were closing early.UPDATE YOUR HOURS SO YOU DONT WASTE PATRONS TIME WHO TRY TO DRINK AND GIVE YOU MONEYGo to Club Cafe. Fun vibe and the hours posted are ACTUALLY correct 👌

Ni
Review №23

Was here as part of a bachelorette party, and found it to be... okay. The performers on our stage were a mix of excellent to... well... eh. It was challenging being at the back of the room upstairs, because we could hear both shows loud and clear, which resulted in much of the act being missed. The cocktail waiter in our section was not attentive - I attempted to get his attention at least 3 times to get a beer, to no avail. At least the bride was taken care of and had fun. Im undecided if I would return at this point...

Mo
Review №24

Awesome and entertaining performance! Gorgeous gorgeous. They keep it fun, exciting, and engaged with the audience. Will definitely return! Cash only, come prepared but there is an ATM on site if needed.

Te
Review №25

A great time in a subversive/transgressive atmosphere. Reasonably-priced drinks ($5/beer), friendly staff. If youre coming with a party, or want a seat right up by the stage, call at least a day in advance for reservations, but if youre going as a couple or threesome, you can probably waltz in any time and get a seat at the bar. No food available, but they do have a pool table. Ill definitely be going back!

Ma
Review №26

15$ cover per person for a drag shows that involve a 1 minute performance for a 5 minutes walk around the audience to ask for tips. It was quite deceiving and boring.Also, it’s a bachelorette crowd.

Le
Review №27

Went on Saturday night. The place was mostly bachelorette parties but we got to watch the drag show from the back. Friendly staff and good beer selection.

Ja
Review №28

I did not enjoy my time here at all.First you cannot start a bar tab and its cash only. It became real annoying every time you ordered a drink you have to dig into your pockets for cash. My group was unable to reserve a table and ended up sitting at the bar to the far left because it was so packed. We were unable to see the stage at all unless we stood up and bunched together with everyone else standing up. There were lots of women here, mostly bachelorettes and or lesbians. Some were cross dressers which stood out, seriously, the 65 blonde with heels who dont even know how to walk in them was ridiculous.The performances were poor and the dancers stood around the tables which we could not get anywhere near to see. The drinks were overpriced as paying $5.50 for a mixed drink in a 5 ounce plastic cup is laughable. I wont be back, I came, I saw, and I experienced. Wasnt a good one and thats the story I will walk away with.

Vi
Review №29

This place is amazing. this is a decently high quality drag show in boston with some of the kindest most talented queens you will possibly find. the entire evening lasts more than two hours and is set up in pageant style. you and your friends will smile, laugh, and enjoy your time while the ladies dance up and down the aisles and belt out amazing tunes that will take your breath away.

La
Review №30

Came here for my bachelorette party. It was ok. The show was a lot of fun, but it was louder that I had expected and the place was really crowded. The drinks were only so-so and there was no free perk for bachelorettes. But, I think all of my guests had a good time.

Fr
Review №31

This is a place for straight women in bridal parties to see a drag show. The queen who emcee’d actually invited the “brides” up on stage to start the show. Very few men in attendance. This place is basically a part of the wedding industry in Boston. Sadly not authentic.

Ga
Review №32

I went with my friends and we did not enjoy our time, the staff is not friendly, everything is cash and cant open a tab, very annoying, drinks are terrible and expensive for what it is, performers look cheap, music for throw back Thursday is terrible, perforners do not know the songs and they look really old. Interaction with the public wasnt even funny. I wouldnt recommended.

D
Review №33

This place is epic! Anyone who hates this place is going in with the wrong frame of mind and for the wrong reason. Your going to a drag show- men dress up as women and rock their body. Its great.There is some serious talent here too. We had the pleasure of Kris Knievil (Christopher Fijal) as our host and he was epic! We also watched Destiny- and holy moly - pretty amazing!We came for a bachlorette party- and this is def a spot for that! There were loads of bachelorettes and it was fun when the host dragged them on stage. I would strongly recommend coming when you are warmed up- and be open and have a good night. This was fun and we would def go back!

Jo
Review №34

Great shows and great bartenders.

Li
Review №35

Definitely your token bachelorette pit stop.The only less than stellar part of the experience was a bit of a hassle getting in the door. Unfortunately we were not able to reserve a table (even two weeks in advance--so keep that in mind), so when we showed up roughly 30 min before the show, the queens at the front door tried to give us a hard time about getting in. Saying that they had to check capacity etc. Betch, please. Who are you kidding? However, after some light groveling and puppy dog eyes we were allowed to pass.We grabbed some seats at the bar (that was empty) and enjoyed a few cocktails. Our friend got to go up on stage and chat about the wedding/engagement (along with the other brides in the audience), and then we were all serenaded by some hits from the 80s 90s and today. The show is definitely worth the 10 bucks and in general is an overall fun experience.

Je
Review №36

Wow, I was soooo looking forward to Jacques, but ended up coming out slightly insulted and disappointed. Perhaps, I should have never came on a Thursday night.Monday-Burlesque ShowTuesday-KaraokeWednesday-Drag ShowThursday-Drag ShowFriday-Drag ShowSaturday-Drag ShowSunday-unknownThe show started at 10:30pm with Melinda Wilson as the MC for the night. Charisma and Ashley Michelle were also part of the trio for the Thursday night showcase.I think what brought my whole experience down was the rudeness of the MC and the lack of enthusiasm from Charismas set. The MC insulted my friend and was super pushy about tipping her during her showcase. I love to tip, but like anybody else if youre good, you dont have to ask for tip, it will just come to you...right?!I want to be fair and state why the MC was rude. My friend loves to have a good time and always laugh when she is enjoying herself. To state to the obvious, we were at a drag show where it naturally brings laughter to the night. I can understand sassiness from them, but when she comes up to you and ask, Whats WRONG with you, you high or something? I want your money, not hers.........not cool, tsk tsk.Besides those incidents plus a few others, we tried to enjoy the rest of the night. Ashley Michelle was amazing keeping the energy high for the night. It really felt like we got all them in their rehearsal nights. I would not recommend EVER coming here on Thursday, but perhaps Friday and Saturday.Our waitress Deana, for the night was wonderful. Just be prepared to be asked some very personal and awkward questions.PS. Jacques open nightly till midnight

An
Review №37

Good friendly dive drag bar. Karaoke Tuesdays are empty, welcoming, and fun. Staff are personable. This was my watering hole when I lived in Boston for 2 years.

Tr
Review №38

So much fun, talent, creativity, and positive vibes!!! Absolutely fabulous show, venue, staff, performers, talent, creativity, and FUN.

Ju
Review №39

I was trying to plan a bachelorette party and called to explain how one member of the bridal party was 18. The guy who answered was very rude in just saying no way then hang up on me. I had heard great things about this place but the way I was just greeted I dont think I will ever be giving them my money!

So
Review №40

Love it here so much!!!!!! amazing drink selection, shows every night, and tobi is adorable.

Ja
Review №41

Ive been to many bars in many countries but never have I been met with such a rude welcome. $7 cover for a place that is empty then being told to leave because we didnt have ID. Im 37. Not even close to looking underage. Will most definitely not be spending any time or money in Jaques.

Co
Review №42

Thank you, Jacques for a great time. The drag is spectacular, the drinks strong, and the hospitality is top notch. Extra thanks to Chris behind the bar- you’re awesome!

ta
Review №43

This place was an absolute blast. The host Destiny was absolutely hilarious and all of the queens were phenomenal. Definitely coming back regularly I loved it

Ma
Review №44

One of the best and most exotic features of this particular cabaret is that no glasses honey. No broken dreams and shots, you get dixie cups.

Ka
Review №45

We had a bachelorette party here! They were fantastic. Our bride to be had an amazing time!!

ke
Review №46

This is not a gay bar! It was loaded with bus loads of batchlorettes! We got suckerd into a the $10 cover. We threw back our drink and went in search of anyplace but this stale hell.

Sc
Review №47

The worst bar service I have had in my life....pay a $15 cash only cover and wait 15 minutes for a drink siting at the bar...then the bar tender left the room again

So
Review №48

The performers are so talented! We had a blast for my birthday celebration

Ha
Review №49

Had such a blast here for my friend’s bachelorette party. Smaller venue, lots of audience interaction, fun routines, great location.

Te
Review №50

I got molested by a drag queen and the urinals were filled with ice. Highly recommended. Drinks were cheap and strong.

Al
Review №51

Queens were amazing! Everyone was so nice and welcoming

Le
Review №52

Don’t even bother... this place works as a private club without any charming for it.We went there and even though the place looked empty, the guy in the entranced said that you had to be on a list.

An
Review №53

The staff did an excellent job at providing a safe place, great entertainment and drinks!

Je
Review №54

Probably one of the greatest nights of my life, amazing performers, amazing atmosphere!

ro
Review №55

I think!U r what you mean to be and this place is perfect for the ones who like to make a new friends and keep the hope alive.

Tr
Review №56

Ive seen Kristy Kielbasinski there and what a riot she was! Definitely would go back to see her again!

TA
Review №57

If you want to laugh and have a great time go there...Simple and FUUUUUUUUUUUUN!!!!!Perfect for girls night out!

Jo
Review №58

The bartender Chrissy is in incredible woman that you need to meet... Fun every day!

Eb
Review №59

Super fun! Nice ambient, everyones so cool 🤗

ab
Review №60

Great place! Effective, effecient, and relatively painless! would recommend 1000/10

Da
Review №61

I had the best time listening to a friend tell me about the best time she ever had here.

ge
Review №62

This is a jewl you dont want to miss. and the food from Rome pizza was delicious.

Ma
Review №63

Fun and socially stimulating environment!

E
Review №64

So much fun! Highly recommend for great entertainment!

Se
Review №65

Tons of females, and men that look like females, best bar in boston

Ke
Review №66

Great place to go and have a good time. Something Different!

St
Review №67

5 stars for fascination. MF is a genius and a babe.

so
Review №68

Best trans nightclub staff are great

Th
Review №69

Always a blast! Cheap, stiff drinks!

Ma
Review №70

Cheap drinks and cool people.

Al
Review №71

Friendly lovely people

Xi
Review №72

Very talented queens!

Yo
Review №73

Had fun

Li
Review №74

Fun and hilarious acts.

Ke
Review №75

Great entertainment and drinks

ar
Review №76

Katya lived here.

Do
Review №77

Great place to party

B
Review №78

Old school FUN

Ne
Review №79

Was closed.

Ma
Review №80

Just eww...

Sh
Review №81

Poor place

An
Review №82

DisappointedWhile traveling to Boston with my husband, we wanted to see a Dragqueen show...The place is not what we expected, nor the show... What a shame for the artists... We did not appreciate the vulgarity of certain customers, in particular 4 people next to us... standing in constantly, they allowed themselves to make inappropriate gestures towards the artists without being corrected... we find this shameful!!!A woman showed her breasts once again, we hadnt come to see her...Our evening was ruined, too bad some artists would have deserved a more respectful audience...we need to change and be more selective and remove people who disrupt the showDisappointedOn a trip to Boston with Mari, we wanted to see a dragqueen show...The place is not the place we expected, the show, either... What a shame about the artists... We have not appreciated the vulgarity of some clients, especially four people beside us... standing in permanece, they have allowed us to have moves moved to artists without being refrained... we find it shameful!!!A woman showed her breasts again, we didnt come to see her...Our evening has been ruined, some artists have deserved a more respectful audience...We need to change and be more selective and get people who disrupt the show

Information
16 Photos
82 Comments
4 Rating
  • Address:79 Broadway St, Boston, MA 02116, United States
  • Site:http://www.jacquescabaret.com/
  • Phone:+1 617-426-8902
Categories
Working hours
  • Monday:4 PM–12 AM
  • Tuesday:4 PM–12 AM
  • Wednesday:4 PM–12 AM
  • Thursday:4 PM–12 AM
  • Friday:1 PM–12 AM
  • Saturday:12 PM–12 AM
  • Sunday:12 PM–12 AM
Service options
  • Delivery:No
  • Takeaway:No
Highlights
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Great cocktails:Yes
  • Karaoke:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Dancing:Yes
  • Spirits:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Amenities
  • Bar on site:Yes
  • Toilets:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
  • Trendy:Yes
Crowd
  • Groups:Yes
Planning
  • Accepts reservations:Yes
Payments
  • Cash only:Yes
  • Debit cards:Yes
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