The Parisian - 485 Powder Mill St
Originally a derogatory term used to refer to a small second story café in French Hill, the current owner Pierre Devereaux has embraced the name. Set up in a house, the place feels more like a boudoir than a place one comes to drink espresso or have a sandwich. Filled with couches, floor cushions, and intimate nooks, the place is usually filled with whispers and blue cigarette smoke.
The Parisian is one of New Jerusalem's most well known secrets. On the surface it presents itself as a casual and relaxed café for the Bohemian set, but in actuality it is a gathering place for gentlemen of a different persuasion. Devereaux pays out good money under the table to the local police and crime elements to see that the Parisian is left alone and ignored. While many gay clubs in Boston can still expect weekly or even nightly raids by the police, the Parisian is a safe harbor for New Jerusalem's small gay community. The casual atmosphere draws all kinds of people. From campus scholars, to poets and painters, to drug dealers, it’s an ideal place to make inquiries, as well as to find information and contacts.
The Parisian is open only after dark Mon-Sat, and unlike every other business in New Jerusalem is open until 1 a.m. most nights. It is strictly closed on Sundays. Devereaux can often be found in a back booth with his lover Mathew Phillips
Living here full time is Dr. Regina Orange, a youthful calico Cornish Rex who is the grande dame of the Parisian and Devereaux's constant companion. To say that Regina is spoiled would be an understatement; she lives the life of a pampered queen, and although she is the quintessential house cat with very little experience of the outer world, she does know a good deal about the hidden community of those who 'love differently' in New Jerusalem.
Type
Dance club
Parent Location
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