Despite or perhaps because of its queer-friendly climate, there have long been only a handful of primarily gay bars in central Madison. This is going to change rapidly over the next few months, though, with plans for the new Plan B bar and restaurant just off Willy Street and with the opening of a new establishment downtown named , a small live music venue whose closing was announced on Monday. "The club closes down as the King Club with our last show on the 19th," explains current co-owner Lisa Gallagher. "We will be closed for one month for extensive remodeling and reopen under a new name."
The new nightspot will primarily cater to Madison's gay community and is inspired by bars in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Amsterdam. Opening this new venture are Dino Maniaci and Jason Hoke, who are also the co-owners of dog groomer and kennel located in the former home of the Dane County Humane Society on the north side. Maniaci also owns the national graphic design and advertising agency Madison Minotaurs rugby team) as a potential base of patrons.
"Springboarding off of Madison's ever growing gay sport's league scene; hockey, volleyball, softball as well as bowling, pool and darts, customers will all find a comfortable place for everyone," states a press release announcing Woof's, "including gay athletes to gather, for leagues to hold recruiting events or for casual gay sports fans to unwind and watch their favorite college or professional team compete along with selected typical bar offerings."