The Heretic Atlanta

Always enjoy going to events at Heretic and even on busy nights, bar lines aren’t too bad. Most nights they do have clothes check, too (and it’s free).

I went here for the first time with my homegirl on Thursday last week and it wasn’t great but it wasn’t bad . Just wasn’t very exciting or nothing super special. I wanna come back to see if it’s more lit on Friday or Saturday though. Not giving up on this place just yet lol.

I'm just now writing this review about my experience back in January. I've only been here a few times, but Calvin, the manager, provided exceptional service after struggling to enter the club for Bearracuda night. He let me in after struggling to withdraw cash from the ATM—he was a total MVP that night. Thank you for making my night and being an awesome person!

It was my first time.... It was a Thursday night.... In the line dancing they were doing was insane! The atmosphere was awesome from the music to the people! Ronnie ROCKS! There were several in our party... many drinks and many different types, and not once did he disappoint! I know we will be back!

The Caucasian American who was at the front door last Thursday was very racist given me a hard time allowing other non African Americans to bypass me. The dj Tracy was very rude and friendly to only the non African Americans on the dance floor. This was the first time in several years I've experienced this since attending this club. If this is how Heretic feels about people like me, then I'll take my business elsewhere. That situation took place on a Wednesday April 2, 2025. More recent, Heretic, Wednesday 05/07/2025 at 11:04 p.m I've experienced racist behavior the minute I approached the bar to purchase my drink. I was next in line. tall Caucasian American wearing the baseball cap (bartender) decided to acknowledge the non African American customers who was sitting on the sides of the bar counter not wanting any service before he acknowledged standing before Him. He only acknowledged me because one of the non African American customers who was sitting on the side counters acknowledged me. That was very racist behavior and I will not tolerating such discrimination. I've attended the Heretic for several years mainly because I do house music and the drinks are added bonus. If this is how you treat African Americans at this bar?

the doorman and bartenders are always amazing for the most part, the last time I was there, the short, big and sassy bartender literally wrote in a tip after I left. which is actual theft, i would've left a tip if his attitude was better. Theres no way it was a mistake because i filled it out and signed it. usually love this place but this guy's attitude and work ethic is insane. very disappointed.

Man I love my plush sister bartender . Homie makes me feel safe and makes sure when I’ve had my limit to stop me . Definitely a great time Westley is amazing 🥰💯

A fun time any day of the week with different events nightly. The drag show on Monday nights with a stellar cast is a must see and Lora ann kitchen cooking on Mondays with those green beans, so good!! The management staff is awesome and the staff all together.

Definitely an interesting place to go. Was here a few weeks ago with a coworker for country night & didn't know what to expect. It was my first time ever going to a place like this. The staff & patrons were all friendly. A bit loud for my taste but over all a good place to go.

This review is mostly based on the Stars of the Century drag show held at the club on Monday nights. I've attended the show years ago when they were at another club and always had a great time. The performances are absolutely amazing and the " girls" really go all out to put on a great show. The hosts are hilarious! My favorite performer is Stasha Sanchez. She shuts the stage down each and every time and looks amazing doing so. This particular show was during black gay pride, so it was packed and they brought out special guest performers. I was thrilled to see that one of my favorites, Raquel Reign would be making a special appearance. The club itself was cool, nothing fancy. The seating for the show was really tight. I know it was a busy night, but they should've spaced out the seats more. The staff was really nice and the drinks were strong. If you get a chance, please check out the Stars of the Century show. It's some of the BEST entertainment in Atlanta! Also, don't forget to bring your dollars to tip the performers.

I love heretic. The crowd and dj music can be hit or miss but you are sure to meet friendly folks and have a good time. Especially during big popular DJ nights or during holidays, the club is sure to be packed. It has a nice outside area (mainly for smokers) that allows anyone a good space to get some fresh air and a break from the dancing and all. The bathrooms are usually pretty busy so just be patient and make a new friend waiting in line. Prices are reasonable and the bar staff is friendly and works quickly and efficiently! I definitely recommend checking it out on a Saturday night or Friday sometimes!!

New bartender Steve is a fantastic and friendly guy. This place rocks with a kick ass DJ and dance floor! Good price drinks and fair cover.

If Marta interferes with business at The Heretic in Atl. come to Peachtree City!!!! There are zero gay bars un PTC, Newnan, Sharpsburg, Fairburn, Tyrone. Sheesh!! Sure would be nice to have a place my partner of 38 years and I have to go without driving an hour!!

After paying $75 admission, I had the worse experience with a racist bartender on Saturday at this establishment. After waiting 30 minutes in line and watching this horrible person serve others in front of me and who would just walk to the bar, he yells at myself and those behind me that if we were to move to another side of the bar that we would be served. Yet when we moved, he went to where we once were and began to make drinks. When I asked why he was treating us this way he rolled his eyes and ignored me. At this point, other customers are offering their apologies, inquiring about his attitude and saying that they "will never come back to the venue." Eventually, this monster would begrudgingly acknowledge me, and when I ask off this mistreatment he was glib and dismissive. I immediately asked that my tab be closed and went to find the person hosting the party. Unbeknownst to the bartender, I'm familiar with the promoters and have attended previous events AND have experienced his horrible customer service. I immediately found the host and brought it to his attention, but that isn't enough. If you are a Black Queer kinky person and are looking to have fun AVOID THIS ESTABLISHMENT AT ALL COST. Here he is serving folx, who had just walked up, in the spot he instructed us to move from! The worst experience EVER!!

Went with friends to drink and dance. The dj was great and all of the patrons were really nice.

Owners are the best and really care and put their all into the club !! Location is great !!! Parking is no problem !! The staff is excellent helpful and knowledgeable!! They are always upgrading and adding and improving the experience and the club all the time !! COVID protocols where strictly enforced I even saw staff members walking around with signs saying you must have your mask on !! Lol two thumbs up !!

I've been in the leather scene since 1986 and the Heretic is a great leather bar ! The staff is amazing the drinks are priced more than fair and mixed with good quantity and quality liqueur . I go with a handicap friend and they couldn't be more helpful . The people are very friendly and the dark room in the back is just another reason to go . Don't miss BullDog leather the stock is hand made locally and the best I've seen anywheres . Plenary of parking , don't miss this great leather club !

The Heretic has become my favorite bar to go to here in Atlanta, the special guest DJ's they bring in for events are always amazing! The monthly DILF parties are always fun to attend. The staff is friendly and make you feel like a part of the family. Overall I highly recommend, this has turned into our go to bar for me and all of my friends

Legit this place had to close two months ago due to patrons testing for Covid, and then just last night a packed dance floor again. The management of this place is ridiculous.

Great place to see men in leather! Unpretentious and Strong drinks. Was in town and was staying nearby so decided to check it out and very glad I did

Atlanta has more gay bars then you can count; from underground, rave style to neighborhood bar but the Heretic is the least pretentious and comfortable whether you want to talk, drink or dance or, all three. I know, it's 'the Heretic' but as Atlanta bars go it's great for pre-late night bear and cub watching. The place doesn't get busy until after 11pm but from then on it's packed from wall to wall. Not really a leather bar but what some would call a Levi bar. Go before 10pm to avoid a cover or, a line to get in. The drinks are still served in stupid lightweight plastic tumblers, but the bartenders are good looking and make a decent drink. The crowd has aged a bit with the club, now attracting a more 30's-50's crowd then it did in the 90's (not a twink in sight) but if you're looking for the younger crowd the Atl Jungle just down/across the street on Cheshire Bridge Rd might be more your place. All I can say about venturing into the back room area is know what you're getting into beforehand and play safe. Though not a sex club (which Atlanta has plenty of), the back room has been known to be a bit raunchy which is why some call the heretic a bit seedier than others.

This place is fun, I'd highly recommend it for the great dance floor, fun social events, and the active clientele who participates in the theme nights. There's some fun on the side you can have to: especially if you're single or have a consenting partner.

Love this place. Hottest men in the South, by far. Atmosphere is sexy and the drinks are honest and strong. Whenever I'm in town this is my go-to place and I'm only sorry that there aren't more like this everywhere.

I went to The Heretic on a Thursday for their Country Western night. They have free instructional line dancing from 8-9. Then, they have two step dances where people dance with a partner in a circle. People are very friendly and will dance with anyone who wants to. The crowd is very down to earth and you feel comfortable as soon as you walk in. You can definitely feel the love with the people who attend this bar. You can tell there are a lot of regulars who come on this night. I had a completely unique experience at this gay bar and decided to come back and the same weekend. This says a lot for someone who hasn't been out in almost 8 months! I think I will make Thursday night outings this summer. I'm excited to meet new people at this bar.

Just face it. Atlanta is not a hot ,healthy, sexy MASCULINE crowd. It's just not. If you've just gotta get out of the house, and go dancing, the Heretic will have to do. The music is lame. If you are from the big city, you will be disappointed. The Atlanta boys like their music light, fluffy, bouncy and saccharine. That's what you get, regardless of who the DJ is. If you just want to go dancing, and have a good time, you can do that. If you are looking to hook up, You'll need to lower your standards, and have you shots up to date. AND, cover is $25. It ain't worth it!

Atlanta has not been the same since the city targeted Backstreet's club huge lot to build a high-rise or condo. It was one of the largest gay bars in the South with its two-story and it was among the few Atlanta nightspots with a 24/7 liquor license. Home to Charlie Brown's Cabaret and a disco floor. Everybody went there after all the clubs would closed around 4 a.m. I still surprised Heretic is still open. What a memories! :)

I came on December 7, 2019 and one of the bartender said that I didn't gave tip on my first order I left more than 15% of tip to him, Maybe he confused myself with another else and he refused to serve me. That's not a good customer service. I'm going to make an observation, please serve without looking for something back....

For this "established" place to be around in gay Atlanta, it was nothing but trash! The next Burkharts....Horrible management. Nothing of sort. Security sucks. Needs upgrade.

The Heretic was the only gay bar that I was able to go while I was in town for the weekend. So, I came here to meet some friends of mine for drinks and some catch-up. This place is generally a leather bar but this particular night was country/western night. So, almost everyone was dressed up in cowboy gears and dancing to country music. I thought it was an awesome place with a dance floor, a mini store (leather gears, t-shirts, jockstraps, lubes, etc.), outdoor patio, and a poker table. It's really nice to see a decent number of lesbians at a gay bar and dancing. Heck, they'll even dance with the guys. You don't really see that in DC. What I wasn't fond of was the indoor smoking. In DC, it's illegal.

The Heretic is arguably one of the most well-known gay night clubs in Midtown. It's been around for quite some time and has changed considerably throughout the years. Long ago, Heretic was more of a leather scene than it is now. Of course, the small shop inside the club still sells various leather goods but not nearly as good of a selection as the Eagle (one of Heretic's "rival" clubs, in my opinion). One thing I really like about the Heretic is that the music is always top notch and spun by talented DJs. The dance floor is a blast. At least once a month, Heretic has some sort of special event. Some examples are: famous DJs (such as Ralphi Rosario or Joe Gauthreaux to name a few) visiting from out of town and foam parties. Heretic also has a "Latino Night" on Thursday, which can be fun to go to if you are a fan of reggaeton music and Spanish men. A few downfalls of the Heretic, in my personal opinion are: - there is a $10 cover after 11 (compared to Eagle which is $0!) - it is CASH ONLY, with ATMs charging $3 for cash withdrawl Overall, Heretic is a fun night out on the town, especially if you go to one of the many events held there throughout the year. Just remember to bring cash!

How has it taken me almost 6 years of living in Atlanta to find out about free line dancing ITP? I visited The Heretic for the first time tonight with a bunch of friends from school - what a great time! We went for the free line dancing lesson at 8 pm on Thursday. The instructor was really good at teaching the dance and making it accessible for everyone. After the lesson there was time for free dancing - lots of people doing the 2 step and fancier line dances. We all had a blast! I definitely will be back for line dancing Thursdays and want to check out the two step lessons on Tuesdays. Don't let the fact that The Heretic is located on Cheshire Bridge scare you away. If you're looking for a fun night of free line dancing this is your place!

Expereniced such terrible service there. When I got home I called to express this to the manager and was cursed at and hung up on.

Visited the bar on Aug 3rd and at some point someone pick pocketed me for my wallet. Before I even noticed my wallet missing the person went to the local Walgreens and tried to use my bank card for $159.18. After 3 failed attempts my bank locked the card down. only take in your ID and some cash if you are paying by cash but don't bring it all in. Leave some in the car as backup. better to lose some than to lose it all and some of the stuff in my wallet can never be replaced. I don't blame the bar but I would like to see some lights in the dark room even if they are dim lights so you can keep an eye on what is going on around you.

I don't want to make this Terry's review of the gay Atlanta bar scene or anything, but . . . The Heretic is the "old school" gay bar and dance place in this town. Backstreet is gone, so you have to go to The Heretic. A decent dance floor, great bartenders and an interesting mix of men to enjoy. Saturday nights used to be Asian night here, but that seems to have changed over the last few years (sigh!).

I went to the Heretic last night to celebrate Halloween. They obviously blew their budget on a Drag Race drag queen because the DJ was tragic! Several friends commented the same. Usually you can count on decent dance music here, but last night was an epic fail! Me and my friends should've gone across the road! A big thumbs down!

Ok, we get it that you have to buy a drink. There's a sign when you enter. The twink at the door told me I have to buy a drink. A bartender came and found me on the patio and tried to force me to buy a drink before I was ready. I told him I wasn't ready yet and he said " pay for it now". So much for pacing your drinks to avoid a dui should you bar hop. I have bought drinks from that same bartender many times and I am always a good tipper at least leaving a dollar. Do they remind everyone at the door about drinks or was I profiled as some cheap patron. If I wasn't going to buy a drink I wouldn't have gone there, but I certainly left without one never to return to that bar again. I could just go to ferguson Missouri to be treated like that. No business model should involve treating loyal patrons like that.

I can't believe the last review was in 2007. I guess it will be my duty to give a current review. I been to Heretic a few times. This is not your typical gay bar. It's a bit more what I would call South of Market if I was in San Francisco. Slightly on the seedier side, dark, and very casual. Great outdoor patio and a lower patio. Came on a Thursday and it was dead. But Fridays and Saturdays you will not find parking in the lot. It's PACKED. So be prepared to park down the block. The crowd is bit on the older side, 30's-50's. You wont find any twinks here. The men are more masculine. Where you want men to be men. So you get daddies, tiny bit of leatherish crowd (note I didnt see anyone wear leather that night, just a description here). There's a pool room in the back that when the lights go out the men play. But that doesn't happen too often and it's only for a short time. Can be fun if you find Mr. Right. I must say the drinks sucks! They come in tiny lilttle plastic tumbler cups 8 oz I think at $4.75 for well drinks. They were just too small, forget about the prices. You would need to do several runs before you even get buzzed. Get larger cups people! The bathroom has lots of troughs. Maybe that why people might think it's a bit seedy. But people were well behaved when my tiny gall bladder was using it all night. The bar is not up to date or modern but it's not run down. It sort of have this mid-west charm about it. Personally I think it fits the theme perfectly. Looking to get lucky? I would recommend this place then. Oh I almost forgot about the music. There's huge dance floor in the center. People just dancing the night away to dance music. It's a great place if you were high and wanted to dance. Cuz it's the kind of place that will take you away. Not to say that people were on drugs there. But if they were, I would recommend dancing there.

If you want to go dancing, you gotta check out the Heretic. Nicknamed the "scary dick" by many a gay boy in Atlanta, it definitely lives up to its name... While it does have a "sketchy" vibe, its bark is worse than its bite; for the most part, the place is totally harmless. If you are just wanting to go and check out a bunch of hot sweaty men dancing up a storm to the best diva music, look no further. It is decorated kind of like a meat locker, and it is definitely always full of meat. Most of the men are of the bear/leather/muscle crowd, but honestly, you will find just about anyone there. Drinks are moderately priced, and there is a back deck to hang out on. Wednesday nights you have to be shirtless to dance (at least it was like that a year or so ago), so do those sit ups before you go!

Pretty awesome club , if you like me who just love a good dj, and to dance to EDm hahhaha. The guys there was not really my type not really into bears but i love the music and the club :))

Dark, great drinks, and one of the best dance floors in Atlanta.... on the seemingly rare occasions they actually play something other than country music. It used to always be so busy. It's not anymore unless they are having a special event. I have a feeling that unless they change their current format, they may eventually close their doors.

I've lived in the ATL for almost 10 years now and it's only in the last year that I've started going to The Heretic. The name is ominous. It looks ominous (a shack on Cheshire Bridge, it'll make you want to get caught up on all your shots). And the rumors of the nasty things going on are pretty graphic (ask me about "the hall of shame" one day). However, with Backstreet a casualty of the city's attempt to clean up the nightlife, The Heretic is now one of the only sure bets for a night of dancing in the gay bar scene. I'm not sure which is the best night to go-- Friday or Saturday. I've heard both get equally crowded, but I usually favor Friday nights. The music is typical gay dance mixes-- not much to fuck up there. The crowd is mixed, more so than Backstreet ever was, with a healthy balance of ethnic folk, average joes, and circuit boys. I always see half of the gay Atlanta rugby team dancing in the corner. Wednesdays are supposed to be "Boys Night Out" where everyone is required to wear leather fetish, cowboy fetish, shirtless or military fetish. I've only been there on a Wednesday once and it was only half crowded, and most guys opted to go shirtless instead of embracing their fetish fantasies. In other words, go on Wednesday if yer bored, but I wouldn't plan your night around it. On any given night, it's generally pretty safe to go despite being a bit on the shabby side. I think they've made an effort to clean up their image a bit (i.e. they turn the lights on in "the hall of shame") so the nasty rumors you hear are probably less the norm than they used to be. However I only give this place 3 stars because despite being a decent dance club, it usually leaves me uninspired at the end of the evening.

AWESOME dance floor! FREE 2 step classes at 8PM EVERY Tuesday. FREE line dances EVERY Thursday at 8PM! FREE line dances on select Saturdays at 8PM. AMAZING bartenders! GREAT drink prices. No better place in Atlanta!

just a lot of old white guys here when i went id say late twenties and above with lots of techno if thats what you like then this is the place for you