Studio West 117’s Reinvention: Food, Fun, and Wellness on the Lakewood Border

Cleveland’s famed LGBTQ+ social hub gets a second act, blending eats and entertainment with health and well-being in a 25,000-square-foot playground.

They say you can’t have your cake and eat it too—unless you’re at the old Studio West 117. After its high-profile closure, this West Side icon is getting a deliciously new beginning. And yes, food, community, and an entirely fresh vibe are front and center as Cleveland’s former LGBTQ+ destination gears up for a comeback.

A Storied Space Gets a New Life

The original Studio West 117 was more than just a venue—it was a sanctuary for the city’s LGBTQ+ crowd. Now, new owner Deairius Houston and the team at Central Outreach Wellness Center are set to inject fresh energy and innovative purpose. Picking up the keys after a fierce $4.1 million auction battle, Houston is bringing wellness and connection to more than 25,000 square feet near the Cleveland/Lakewood border. But don’t worry: the revamped spot is keeping the party—and the pizza oven—alive.

What’s Staying: Eats, Entertainment, and More

Good news for foodies, party animals, and anyone who loves a stellar rooftop sunset:

• Full-size gymnasium perfect for dance nights, sports, or community events
• Outdoor courtyard for summer hangs
• Rooftop bar and patio—because every Cleveland night deserves a skyline view
• Ground-floor restaurant and pizza kitchen to keep the carbs and cocktails flowing

Planned programming will blend the best old favorites with fresh community-focused events, rotating pop-ups, and, yes, those famous drag shows.

The Food Scene: More Than Just Fuel

The new venue won’t just be about sustenance for the soul. While exact menus are still under wraps, word is the restaurant and pizza kitchen will stay humming—nightlife, comfort food, and specialty drinks included. Expect partnerships with local chefs, themed food nights honoring the venue’s diverse community, and healthy twists that don’t skimp on flavor.

A sample of what we can look forward to:

• Classic and creative pizzas out of a dedicated kitchen
• Casual fare and cocktails in the courtyard
• Options for dietary needs, reflecting Central Outreach’s community-minded spirit
• Special pop-ups and guest chef nights

More Than a Night Out: Why This Matters

What’s the big idea? Houston’s vision is all about breaking down barriers for Cleveland’s LGBTQ+ community—not just by throwing a great party but by making health, connection, and support as accessible as a cold beer or a hot slice. The building’s transformation is a model for how dining and drinking spaces can double as gateways to wellness, counseling, and community care.

Here’s what the new Studio West 117 aims to deliver:

• Community-led events, from dance nights to wellness fairs
• Onsite screenings and referrals, making health care easy to access
• A safe, affirming space for all, with a side of snacks

How and When to Join the Party

The team officially took over in September and are plotting renovations to upgrade both the fun and the functionality. Launch timelines are on the horizon, so keep your eyes out for soft openings, event announcements, and maybe a few sneak peeks at what’s coming next. Whether you’re heading in for a show, a meal, or a moment of connection, the doors will soon swing open once again on one of the West Side’s most dynamic gathering spots.

The Bottom Line

Legacy, food, and wellness are uniting for Studio West 117’s second act. Cleveland’s LGBTQ+ party palace is on the verge of a big-hearted—and big-flavored—rebirth. Stay tuned, stay hungry, and get ready to toast the future of west side community, one slice at a time.