The Peel Otel

We were told after waiting 40 minutes in the line that they only prioritise “normal gay men”. When we got into the venue, we were then told, that they are aloud to discriminate against women and all other queer folks, because it’s not a queer bar, it is a “gay male bar”. The lady at the door was absolutely disgusting with her attitude. If you are wanting this to be an all gay male bar, make it that. Don’t just have the rest of us waiting in your line to be backup.

I’ve been to this club plenty of times before with my gay male friends and always felt like it was meant to be an inclusive space — but my last two experiences have completely changed my view. The previous time I went, I was stopped at the door and told I needed to “cover up” before going in. I was already wearing long trousers and a long-sleeve top — I genuinely couldn’t have been more covered if I tried. Meanwhile, there were people inside wearing far less, which made the whole situation feel inconsistent and unfair. Then last night was even worse. There were eight of us — five gay men and three women — and despite there being no queue, the girls were singled out and refused entry. We were told “no girls allowed,” which is shocking for a venue that presents itself as part of the LGBTQ+ community. One of the bouncers at a different night told my friend they don’t let women in because “lesbians love to fight,” which is honestly one of the most ridiculous and offensive things I’ve ever heard. It felt discriminatory, outdated, and completely against the idea of inclusivity. Women have supported gay spaces and communities for years, so to be treated like this at the door is incredibly disappointing. Sadly, I won’t be returning.

So I personally love this venue and this comment is about the 2 short arab looking guys hang out at the corner of the Peel and one lady , everytime me n my partner walk by on the weekends we get harassed by this bunch, they seem very weird and very inappropriate Also I have heard they have been barred from the Peel for some reasons . I believe the management needs to do something about it xx

Spencer is phenomenal, amazing customer service! He has a beautiful face!!

Refused enter because I wasn’t “gay” Discrimination how can you say I’m not gay by looking at me. Joke of an establishment

This place deserves 0 stars. They claim to be an LGBT friendly place but are so far from that it isn't funny. Do not spend your money in such a disgusting misogynistic place. I'm a gay man who was refused entry because I was with my queer friend who due to the fact she was a woman, was barred from entry. Honestly I am appalled you can label yourselt as a queer venue. The Peel is a disgrace to the Melbourne queer scene ! Do not bother going! The Sircuit is at least accepted of all queer people.

Great venue! However, it’s always extremely hot inside. I don’t think they have AC, or if they do, it’s never turned on. I’d honestly prefer paying an entry fee if it meant they would invest in improving the ventilation or cooling. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like investing in the venue is a priority for them. Usually the crowd is good, but some weekends the number of women and straight couples becomes a bit ridiculous.

*PLEASE READ IF YOU’RE PLANNING ON VISITING* Last night, on the final night of the Midsumma Festival ‘26, after the Pride Street Party, my friends and I waited in line for over an hour and a half, only to be told at the door that no women were allowed - “only gay regular men,” according to the security guards. I’ve never experienced this at a gay venue before, especially on such a significant night dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ pride. It’s incredibly disgraceful to treat people this way after they’ve waited patiently in line and intended to support the venue financially- all because the owner wants to exclude queer people that aren’t cis gay men. If you’re wanting to have a fun night out with friends, I suggest a place that isn’t gonna promote exclusion and gender discrimination.

Amazing vibes coming here straight from Flash on Saturday which was just around the corner. Friendly cute crowd, fun pop music and cheap drinks. What more can you ask for?

It’s dead here. No one comes anymore. Not what it used to be. Music is terrible most nights.

0 STARS. This is not an LGBTQ+ inclusive space AT ALL. Avoid at all costs do not give your money to this club or its owner. On Saturday night I was there with my partner and friends. This venue has countless naked and topless men (which I have no issue with & I am for the freedom of the LGBTQ community). However they should make this clear as this is not a sex party it is a gay club. I was approached by the owner who said “you can’t wear that’. I was wearing a long waist to ankle skirt and a bralette, so I obviously turned and said to him “are you joking” because I genuinely thought he was. He proceeded then to grab me and call security and told me to get out. My partner and I were then wrestled out aggressively by security who had no idea why they were kicking us out. The owner is clearly misogynistic and this was a CLEAR and totally reprehensible act of discrimination. This is not safe place for women.