Owned by Puerto Rican-born Eddie Valentin and Colombian-born Casimiro Villa, who are also personal partners, Friend’s, like other nearby bars on and around Roosevelt Avenue, caters primarily to the LGBT Latino community. The modest storefront itself pre-dates Friend’s, with the exception of the business sign and the awning, which, at one time, included the slogan, “There is always time for friends.”
Friend’s Tavern (popularly referred to as Friend’s) has been in business at this location since 1989 and is considered the oldest operating gay bar in Queens.
