2 days ago
15 New Orleans bars and restaurants that have closed this summer
The doldrums of summer came early to New Orleans, bringing with them a rush of bar and restaurant closures.
Why it matters: More hospitality owners are pulling the plug early rather than crossing their fingers and hoping to keep paying their bills through the slowest part of the year.
The big picture: With few festivals, high temperatures and little tourism, summer has long been New Orleans' slowest season.
So, if a restaurant or bar is going to close, it's more likely to come during the warmest months of the year.
On the lighter end, summer might mean limited hours or short-term closures.
But the coronavirus pandemic cranked that intensity to the max level, with full-blown summer shutdowns picking up pace in recent years.
Yes, but: We're not powerless against it.
As Ian McNulty outlined for The Times-Picayune, now's the time to show your favorite bars and restaurants that you're there to help them make it through to fall.
You can buy gift cards, arrive earlier, and shop smarter when you're opting for take-out by ordering directly from the restaurant rather than paying fees to third-party apps.
Closures since March 2025 so far include:
Maypop and Mopho, both from chef Michael Gulotta. Maypop in particular had a tough run after a closure prompted by a building collapse across the street last year.
Tracey's Irish Channel Bar. Owners said the cancellation of the Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day parade this year was the final straw, WDSU reports.
BABs from chef Nina Compton and partner Larry Miller.
Justine from Justin and Mia Devillier.
Frey Smoked Meat Co., which had been in Mid-City for about a decade.
The Franklin, which has already made way for new restaurant Evviva.
Zony Mash, the brewery on the edge of Broadmoor.
Ugly Dog Saloon, which closed in the CBD.
Milan Lounge, a beloved Uptown dive bar.
Medium Rare, which was only open for about a year, Eater reports.
Tonti's Bistro in Algiers Point.
Brocato's Kitchen in Mid-City, though The Times-Picayune reports it may reopen elsewhere.
Trilly's Cheesesteak, which cited rising costs as a major factor.
