Gay Bars & LGBTQ+ Venues in New Orleans, LA — Page 2

Hotel St. Pierre isn't just for Southern Decadence, though it does have a frisky rep during that week. The rest of the year, its courtyards and two pools draw a mixed gay/straight crowd. The property is a collection of 200+ year old buildings, giving it a historic New Orleans feel. You'll find the location ideal—close to French Quarter action but quiet enough to sleep. Staff are friendly, and free wifi is included. For a classic Bourbon Street stay, Royal Sonesta New Orleans is nearby, but Hotel St. Pierre offers more character and pool time.

A reviewer notes Mr. B's Bistro is "a little more casual" than other Brennan restaurants, though you'll still want to leave the tank tops at home. This French Quarter fixture, opened in 1979, serves Creole cuisine from the Brennan family. Cindy Brennan runs the place and even published a cookbook of its recipes. The atmosphere is relaxed, but the food and service get high marks. You can grab a seat at the bar during happy hour or reserve a table for dinner. The full bar offers cheap cocktails, and the barbecue shrimp is a standout. It's across from Hotel Monteleone, an easy walk from other Quarter spots. Reservations are a good idea, especially for the live jazz Sunday brunch.

A reviewer licked their plate after trying the 'Taste of Louisiana' sampler. That's the kind of reaction Remoulade inspires. This casual sibling of upscale Arnaud's serves authentic Cajun-Creole dishes in a relaxed French Quarter setting. The 'Taster' options let you sample smaller portions of turtle soup, crawfish etouffee, and more. It's a budget-friendly way to experience Arnaud's kitchen without the formal price tag. Smoking area available. It's temporarily closed, so check before heading over. The outdoor seating makes it a good stop when the weather cooperates. It's sandwiched between Bienville and Conti, an easy walk from nearby Cafe du Monde. The crowd tends toward tourists and locals alike looking for a no-fuss Cajun fix. If it reopens, go for the samplers and skip the fuss.

Tucked near Burgundy Street on the border of the French Quarter, Buffa's is the kind of no-frills neighborhood bar where the music and the welcome are equally genuine. Live acts perform Thursday through Monday, covering everything from jazz brunch on Sundays to whatever local talent rolls in on other nights. The crowd is mixed gay and straight, and everyone seems to actually mean it when they say everybody's welcome. Regulars know Buffa's for its reliably solid bar food and the annual Christmas Eve Movie Festival, an eight-hour marathon of strange and funny holiday films. Hours run daily from 11:00 am to 1:00 am, though you might want to confirm before heading out. If you're making a night of it, a short walk gets you to Voodoo Lounge.

House of Blues New Orleans suits anyone who wants live music, dancing, and a casual bar vibe in the French Quarter. This venue is dedicated to educating and celebrating the history of Southern Culture and African American artistic contributions to music and art. It's a popular spot on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with a full bar, outdoor seating, and happy hour. The crowd tends to be mixed, and you can make reservations ahead of time. Free wifi is available, so it's easy to stay connected. If you're exploring the city's arts scene, you might also check out the New Orleans Museum of Art nearby.

A polished pool table sits between the lounge and the beer garden, where tacos and cocktails draw a mixed Uptown crowd. Phillips Bar & Restaurant has been a neighborhood anchor since 1942, with the current LGBTQ+ owner taking over after Hurricane Katrina and renovating the space into something that feels both local and international. Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 8 p.m., with $1 off everything. The crowd skews 20s and 30s, blending Tulane and Loyola students with longtime regulars. There's free WiFi, a smoking area, and the full bar keeps things simple. Because Yelp lists this venue as potentially permanently closed, call ahead before heading over.

If you get tired of seafood and want to sink your teeth into a burger and keep drinking, this is the place. Yo Mama's Bar and Grill is a dive-y bar and grill close to Bourbon St., known for its famous peanut butter and bacon cheeseburger and one of the largest tequila selections in the city. The vibe is mixed gay and straight, welcoming, and happy hour friendly. Sides like a huge baked potato or salad round out the meal, and they also serve great gumbo. The bartender Erica is awesome and gay-friendly. She's known to send you off the beaten path for real NOLA culture. Hours are daily 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, though unconfirmed. It's a nice break from Bourbon St. for a relaxed meal and drinks. If you're looking for a spot nearby, Mother's is also a solid choice.

Don't expect a slick cocktail lounge. This is a true Marigny dive bar with strong, cheap drinks and a loyal local crowd. The vibe is casual and friendly, with a pool table, smoking area, and occasional after-hours energy. Meat night is a hit with regulars. It's woman-owned and LGBTQ-owned, open daily from late morning until 2am.

This spot is best for anyone craving top-notch pizza and Italian comfort food in a casual, laid-back setting. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen is an LGBTQ-owned staple in the French Quarter, sitting across from the French Market. Don't let the name fool you: the menu goes well beyond pizza, with standouts like the hot and spicy Italian Barbeque Shrimp and a red beans and rice appetizer that regulars rave about. The vibe is mixed gay/straight, friendly, and unpretentious. You can grab a seat on the outdoor patio, bring your dog, and order from the full bar. Service is warm, and the wait staff are known for their charm. The hours are consistent every day from 11:30 am to 9:30 pm, making it an easy stop before or after exploring the French Quarter. Reservations are accepted, which can help during peak times. The pizza crust gets particular praise for its texture and flavor. If you're still hungry after, a short walk brings you to Cafe du Monde for beignets and coffee.

You might expect a French Quarter Creole restaurant to coast on tradition, but Muriel's adds contemporary twists that keep things interesting. Their three-course fixe-prixe menu at $29.95 offers genuine value, and the dining room itself is a landmark overlooking Jackson Square. Some say it's haunted; the food and service are what people rave about. Brunch here is a standout, considered one of the best in the city. Hours run 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm most days, with later weekend seatings. It's a solid pick for a memorable evening without the stuffiness of some nearby spots like Commander's Palace.

In a city famous for its restaurants, August stands out as a contemporary Creole flagship from Chef John Besh, named to Gourmet Magazine's list of America's best restaurants since opening in 2001. The upscale dining room in the Financial District draws an after-work crowd and special-occasion diners with a menu that focuses on local ingredients and evolves regularly. Service is polished, and the full bar and happy hour make it approachable even for a first visit. Reservations are recommended, and the atmosphere strikes a balance between elegance and comfort. It's priced at the top end, but regulars return for the sophisticated presentations and the confidence that comes with a kitchen that's earned praise from Gayot to Zagat. Sunday through Thursday dinner runs from 5pm to 9pm, with an extra hour on weekends.

This luxury hotel is best suited for travelers who want a quiet, refined stay without sacrificing proximity to New Orleans' main attractions. The Windsor Court Hotel is the only hotel in Louisiana to hold both Forbes Four Stars and AAA Four Diamonds Awards, and nearly all its accommodations are suites. An outdoor pool and full spa make it a self-contained retreat, and the hotel is dog friendly with free Wi-Fi. Public areas are gorgeous, and guests praise the impeccable service. Afternoon tea is a local tradition here. You might also consider the Hotel Monteleone for a classic French Quarter experience, but the Windsor Court offers more space and a quieter base for exploring the city. Check hours and reviews.

This isn't just another po'boy shop. Parkway Bakery and Tavern has been a Midcity staple since 1911, serving classic po'boys that locals swear by. The family-run spot offers a full bar, happy hour, and a patio where you can relax. Manager Justin Kennedy even competed on Food Network's 'Chopped.' It's open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm. The casual vibe and budget-friendly prices make it an easy stop — you'll blend in with regulars grabbing lunch on the patio. If you're exploring other local favorites, consider Commander's Palace for a more upscale meal.

Inn on St Peter sets itself apart from other French Quarter hotels by offering a quieter, more historic retreat while still being within stumbling distance of Bourbon Street. Part of the French Quarter Guest Houses group, this inn features 29 unique rooms and suites, each with its own character. The building dates to 1805 and was renovated in 2012, blending traditional finishes with modern comfort. Outdoor courtyard seating and free wifi are confirmed amenities. Reviews are mixed. Some guests rave about the location and friendly staff, while others report surly service and maintenance issues (peeling paint, mildew, cracked sink). Rooms vary in size; room 49 is notably small. For a more polished stay, you might consider the nearby Hotel Monteleone, which offers full service.

W New Orleans - French Quarter is open 24 hours a day, making it flexible for any schedule. The hotel sits on a quieter street in the French Quarter, so you get the prime location without the constant noise of Bourbon Street. It's still a short walk to Jackson Square, the French Market, and dozens of bars and restaurants. The property includes a pool and courtyard, and it's pet-friendly, so you can bring your dog. The on-site restaurant and bar has a rotating drink menu and solid food. Some rooms have courtyard views, though a few past guests noted the noise from neighboring rooms and the pool area can carry. Still, if you value location and convenience, this is a solid base for exploring the French Quarter.

If you want a casual Cajun meal and a front-row seat for French Quarter street life, this place works. Pere Antoine Restaurant sits on Royal at St. Ann, one block off Bourbon Street. The oversized windows open the dining room to the sidewalk, making people watching part of the experience. The menu covers Cajun-Creole classics like gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and bread pudding. It's also a full bar with outdoor seating and happy hour. The crowd is mixed gay and straight, fitting a neighborhood that's both tourist-heavy and gay-friendly. Hours run 8am to 9pm most days, with a 10pm close on Friday and Saturday. Reservations are accepted. The rating sits at a middling 3 stars from over 1100 Yelp reviews, so expectations should be moderate. A block north, Cafe du Monde is open late for beignets if you want something sweet after dinner.

This restaurant is best suited for travelers who want a refined, quiet dinner in a historic setting without phone distractions. James Beard Award-winning chef Susan Spicer opened Bayona in 1990 in a 200-year-old Creole cottage in the French Quarter. The menu draws from Mediterranean, European, Cajun-Creole, and African influences. The dining room enforces a strict mobile-phone-free policy. The lush courtyard with fountains is ideal for outdoor seating in spring and fall. The wine list offers over 400 selections. Reservations are accepted, and the full bar includes outdoor seating. For another classic New Orleans meal, Commander's Palace is nearby.

The crowd at Mr. Binky's French Quarter is a mixed-gay-straight mix, drawn to its unapologetically adult offerings. This LGBTQ+ owned shop specializes in slings, swings, and other wild side gear. It's a smaller outpost of the Harahan store, but still packs more than basics. Open 24 hours daily (unconfirmed), you'll find clothing, accessories, gifts, and adult toys. It's right off Canal Street in the Quarter.

The crowd at Sukho Thai is a blend of locals and visitors, artists and neighbors, with a laid-back vibe that's welcoming to everyone. This family-run spot in the Marigny has been serving authentic Thai cuisine since 2003. It's the only Thai restaurant in Louisiana certified as Thai Select Premium by the Royal Thai Government. The menu is broad, with curries, noodles, seafood, and a full bar including Thai cocktails. The heat is real here. One review notes that "Mild" here is equivalent to New Orleans hot and spicy. Regulars recommend the Dancing Shrimp Salad or Green Curry. The staff is friendly and charming. Sukho Thai also has outdoor seating and is dog friendly. Reservations are accepted.

Marigny Brasserie stands out as a gay-owned fine dining spot on Frenchmen Street, serving innovative Creole and Classic American cuisine since 2015. The vibe is low-key and mixed gay-straight, with outdoor seating and a full bar. It's known for its Sunday brunch featuring live music. The bar stays open as late as the crowd dictates, making it a flexible choice for late nights. Best nights are Friday through Sunday. The menu focuses on fresh local dishes, and the owner, Roland, welcomes a sophisticated crowd. If you're exploring the Marigny, nearby Cafe du Monde is a classic stop for beignets and coffee.

Walk into Coquette Bistro & Wine Bar and you'll notice tile floors and soaring ceilings before you even take in the menu. This French bistro is run by chefs formerly of Commander's Palace and Restaurant August, and the space feels intimate yet polished. It's vegan-friendly and gluten-free-friendly, and the entire staff including owners is under 30 years old. The upstairs dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows and crystal chandeliers, a more formal option if the main floor is full (and it often is). You'll want a reservation here. For another New Orleans classic, Commander's Palace is just a short trip down the street.

The courtyard pool offers a quiet escape from Bourbon Street, just one block away. Holiday Inn French Quarter-Chateau Lemoyne sits near Jackson Square and has been hosting guests since 1971. It's a family-friendly hotel with an outdoor pool and free WiFi. The staff are known for being helpful, even during emergencies like Hurricane Gustav. Guests consistently mention the comfortable beds and quiet rooms. You'll find plenty of nearby restaurants for meals. The hotel's location makes it easy to walk to popular spots like Hotel Monteleone or Bourbon Orleans Hotel. For Southern Decadence or Mardi Gras, this is a reliable choice.

The French Quarter is where you want to be, and Hotel Mazarin puts you a half block off Bourbon Street. That means you're steps from the action but the noise stays behind. This TAG-approved hotel has 97 rooms, some of the largest you'll find in the Quarter. The courtyard is the centerpiece, with a European-style fountain and lush greenery that feels like a private escape. Regulars appreciate the understated vibe — it's more inn than hotel. Rooms are spacious and modern while keeping New Orleans charm. Your partner will like the value here, especially compared to properties on Bourbon. Breakfast isn't included, but you're walking distance to everything, including Café du Monde. For another classic stay, the nearby Hotel Monteleone offers its famous Carousel Bar.

Cafe Amelie is open Thursday through Sunday, serving lunch from 11 am to 3 pm and dinner from 5 pm to 9 pm. This French Quarter restaurant features an outdoor patio that regulars call the perfect spot for sipping wine under the stars. The menu focuses on contemporary Louisiana eats with seafood and Cajun-Creole influences. The vibe is upscale but relaxed, attracting a mixed gay and straight crowd. Reservations are recommended, especially for patio seating. Drinks are cold and the atmosphere leans romantic. If you're exploring the neighborhood, you might also stop by Cafe du Monde for beignets afterward.

Candlelight flickers across exposed brick in three intimate dining rooms inside a handsome 19th-century French Quarter townhouse. The Pelican Club is a modern Creole spot with a trendy twist, open for dinner since 1990. It blends French, Creole, Asian and traditional American flavors under owner and executive chef Richard Hughes. The large bar serves full drinks, and there's outdoor seating for warm evenings. Reservations are recommended for this upscale restaurant where dressy attire is expected. Sunday is a particularly good night to visit, according to regulars. You'll find it steps from Bienville Street, near the action but feeling like a secret.

French Quarter Gem and Lapidary isn't your typical high-end jewelry store. This LGBTQ-owned shop in the French Quarter offers an eclectic mix of affordable bling, gifts, sundries, arts and crafts, and second-hand treasures. With a Yelp rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 83 reviews, it's a local favorite for unique finds without the hefty price tag. You'll find everything from sparkly accessories to quirky collectibles. The store is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10am to 6pm. If you're exploring the French Quarter, it's a great spot to pop in for a souvenir or a gift. Just note that some reviews mention a mixed experience with the owner, so keep that in mind.

The smell of warm sugar and pecans fills the air at this family-owned French Quarter staple. Southern Candymakers has been crafting fresh pralines, toffees, and chocolate assortments in-house since 1992. Their creamy praline samples are a daily ritual for passersby on Decatur Street, and the shop supplies its old-fashioned handmade treats nationwide through shipping. You'll find classic candy shop favorites like Tortues and caramels alongside ice cream for a quick treat. The shop stays busy with locals and tourists alike, so expect a line. Prices are moderate, and the shop is open daily from 10am to 6pm. If you're walking the Quarter, it's an easy stop near Bienville Street.

Hotel Le Marais operates with a no-nickel-and-dime approach, offering complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, welcome drinks, and even free bottled water. This boutique hotel, formerly St. Ann Marie Antoinette, fuses old France sophistication with modern luxury in the French Quarter. The heated outdoor saltwater pool is a standout, and the on-site wine & tequila bar adds an upscale touch. Guests consistently praise the value, with one noting they "felt like a king" thanks to all the free amenities. The hotel sits steps from Bourbon Street, making it a convenient base for exploring. For a quieter classic option, consider the Hotel Monteleone just around the corner.

The scent of crawfish étouffée mingles with fresh coffee at this Marigny brunch spot. Horns serves Sunday brunch with a Cajun-Creole soul food twist, and their custom drink menu is the real draw. It's pet-friendly, so you'll often see dogs lounging on the patio while their humans sip signature cocktails. One regular swears by the Crabby Wife: two eggs on crab cakes smothered in crawfish étouffée, calling it the best brunch they've ever had. Hours are limited to mornings, Thursday through Monday. If you're craving more Creole classics, you can walk to Mother's for a po' boy later.

La Petite Grocery isn't your typical French-Cajun bistro. It started life as a corner grocery, then a flower shop, before becoming the cozy, low-key spot it is today. The vibe is mixed-gay-straight and relaxed, with a well-dressed Uptown crowd. Chef Justin Devillier's award-winning menu changes daily, and happy hour (Tuesday through Saturday, 5:30-6:30pm) features $1 cocktails and small plates for just $3-6. Lunch is a steal at around $12, while dinner prices climb higher. The full bar and outdoor seating make it easy to linger. Sunday brunch runs 10:30am-2:30pm, and reservations are recommended. It's the kind of place where regulars know to stop by for a quick bite and end up staying for hours.