The Port of Call in Mystic Launches Seaqueens Drag & Disco Evenings

For centuries, the seafaring industry was dominated by men, and the presence of women on board was considered bad luck. In Mystic, CT, a town with a storied maritime history, The Port of Call, a new nautical-themed cocktail lounge, is giving a nod to the area’s seafaring traditions while also looking to the future. That future includes three Queer women who are “steering the ship” at The Port of Call: executive chef Renée Touponce, beverage director Jade Ayala, and general manager Nancy Hankins. 

To celebrate a new era of inclusivity and gender diversity in a fun and welcoming environment, the trio has announced Sea Queens, a summer-long bi-weekly dinner and drag show that will run from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Starting Sunday, May 29th, and kicking off Pride Month, guests can book a seating at 6:30 p.m. or 8:30 p.m., where they’ll enjoy a choice of two dishes from the inventive menu along with a cocktail, as well as an incredible drag show by some of the best Queens in the region. Then, at 10:30 p.m., the fun will continue with a disco after-party at Dive, the lower-level casual bar. 

“We’re excited to bring this new and unique event to Mystic,“ said Renée Touponce. It’s an opportunity for us to share our own pride and gratitude for being part of such a diverse and inclusive community, as well as to celebrate Pride Month in a fun way while recognizing and honoring the significance that it represents.”

The Port of Call is a collaboration between 85th Day Food Community and The Real McCoy Rum. The bi-level space hearkens back to the days of maritime excursions, exploring international cocktail culture and cuisine together, port by port. In the upper saloon, guests can enjoy a cocktail-driven experience drawing from port cities near and far, with a small plate menu to match. Below Deck is Dive, a laid-back pub serving beer and bar bites, complete with a shuffleboard table and arcade games.

Tickets for Sea Queens at The Port of Call are $85. For information and reservations, visit www.theportofcallct.com.