HAGS

The story

HAGS NYC: Queer-Owned Contemporary Restaurant in East Village | Michelin Recommended

A Tiny East Village Restaurant by Queer People, for All People

HAGS is a small restaurant on First Avenue in New York City’s East Village, founded by Telly Justice and Camille Lindsley. The space is intimate and welcoming, designed to be a place “by Queer people for all people.” The atmosphere is casual but thoughtful, with counter dining and table service that invite conversation.

The menu changes often, reflecting a contemporary approach that lets the kitchen’s creativity guide the experience. When asked “So what’s the food like?” the team answers with a wink: “Your guess is as good as ours.” This playful openness extends to their Sunday brunch, which operates on a pay-what-you-can sliding scale—guests pay what they wish, including nothing, for the food; beverages are fixed price. It’s a gesture of radical hospitality that matches the restaurant’s ethos.

HAGS earned a Michelin Recommended award, a recognition that speaks to the quality and integrity of the cooking. The kitchen readily accommodates allergies and dietary restrictions—communicating them 48 hours ahead ensures the team can tailor the menu. Service is included in the price of every meal, though additional tips are welcome.

The restaurant is fully ADA compliant, and reservations for dinner open 30 days in advance at noon EST. Brunch offers a mix of reserved tables and walk-in availability. While HAGS is currently closed for repairs due to inherited structural issues, the team is planning pop-ups and collaborations, promising to return soon.