Pride Guru

Randall Porter says the best thing about Birmingham Pride is “Farm fed, cornbread eating boys”

Photo courtesy of Randall Porter

Nearly 29-year-old Randall Porter is concerned about what happens to a Twink once they are no longer in their 20s. With that, Randall intends to make the last year of his 20s unforgettable during Central Alabama Pride celebrations in Birmingham.

The brand communications director at Aviate and nightlife enthusiast has the rundown on Birmingham‘s best. Meet the Pride Guru for Central Alabama Pride.

Why are you a Central Alabama Pride expert?

I have never missed pride.

What makes this Pride special?

The southern men. Farm feed, cornbread-eating boys! Lol

Best Pride cocktail?

Casamigos Tequila on the rocks with a little lime. When I am feeling girly, add a splash of grapefruit and club soda.

Favorite gay bars?

  • Innisfree, the Irish pub
  • Al’s On Seventh has the best drag show in Birmingham
  • The Quest stays open 24/7 and everyone the drinks are cheap

Best cruising spot?

The Quest for sure

Favorite LGBTQ-friendly hangouts?

Sunday brunch?

Rojo

Favorite spot to watch the Parade?

Any bar in the Lakeview district.

Where to see-and-be-seen?

Anywhere in Lakeview area! Everywhere I go, I am seen. Lol

Best places to eat?

My favorite is Bamboo (order the Momos, Tuna Tataki and fried green beans!). Also try  Shu Shop, HOT & HOT and Bottega.

Hotels you recommend for Pride visitors?

Redmont, Elyton and the Grand Bohemian

Recommendations for finding the different “types”? (bears, daddies, leather, hipsters, etc.)

We are limited on the bars, so we all intermix. We have Spikes Leather Club. We have Al’s on seventh. Then you have the Quest, 24-hour dance club.

How is Birmingham’s LGBTQ community dealing with the current political climate?

Since the election of Doug Jones there seems to be more hope for an inclusiveness and an understanding that will benefit all communities in Birmingham. Prior to that, it was almost a fear of going backwards. However, the people of Alabama (we) have had a ENOUGH being painted so “RED” and unprogressive.  Electing Doug Jones was telling to that!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiQQdO-HBWp/?taken-by=randallporter

Follow Randall on Instagram for all his Pride excitement.

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