Heatwave Orlando: A New LGBTQ+ Space Opens

Orlando’s Parramore District heated up with the debut of Heatwave Orlando, a brand-new LGBTQ+ venue designed to bring people together through food, entertainment, and community. Officially soft-opening on Friday, August 15th, Heatwave welcomed guests with a full schedule of events throughout its opening weekend, creating a vibrant new destination in the heart of Downtown.

Originally published on August 13th, 2025. Updated for accuracy.

The property, once home to the iconic Stonewall bar that closed on New Year’s Eve 2021, had been vacant for nearly three years. Now, thanks to the vision of co-owners Kevin Varanai and Andrea Dunn, the space has been transformed into three distinct experiences under one roof: a café, a tapas-inspired restaurant, and a lively entertainment lounge.

A Three-Level Venue with Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

Heatwave’s ground floor introduced The Green Room, a café that opens early each day for coffee, light bites, and community gatherings. By evening, the café transforms into a chic cocktail lounge serving small plates and crafted drinks.

On the second floor, guests can enjoy a dual-purpose lounge and dinner theater, offering a curated menu of shareable dishes, wine, and craft cocktails. Entertainment quickly became a major draw, with live performances and RuPaul’s Drag Race watch parties bringing energy and excitement to the space.

Also on the second level is The Terrace, an outdoor dining area where guests can enjoy food and drinks in an open-air setting, perfect for Orlando’s lively nightlife scene.

Backed by the Orlando Community

The project received strong local support, with the Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) awarding more than $130,000 in grants to assist with renovations and rent relief, ensuring the historic property could be brought back to life for a new generation.

A Vision of Inclusivity and Belonging

For Dunn, the mission behind Heatwave is deeply personal:

“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—we wanted to create a space where creativity, conversation, and community collide. My hope is that Heatwave feels like a place where you’re always seen and celebrated.”

Varanai echoed that passion, emphasizing the importance of building a “third space” for Orlando’s queer community and allies:

“Every detail, from the shareable plates to the cocktails and entertainment, was designed to bring people together. For me, being queer is at the heart of everything I do, and Heatwave is a way to give back to the Orlando community that has always embraced me.”

Experience Heatwave Orlando

With its mix of daytime café culture, evening dining, and late-night performances, Heatwave ORL has quickly become more than just another nightclub, it’s a hub for conversation, creativity, and connection.

For details on upcoming events, visit Heatwave’s website or check out their Facebook page for updates.