Best Nightlife in Uptown, New Orleans

When it comes to location, there is no denying that Uptown, New Orleans has it all. Located upstream (or, north of the Mississippi River) from the French Quarter and central business district, Uptown boasts a bit of a quieter vibe, but that isn’t to say it is shy of a party.

Comprising 19th-century Victorian neighborhoods, you can’t pass through Uptown without being in awe of the incredible architecture and even more amazing ancient oak trees lining the streets. 

In addition to its grand architecture and majestic mansions, Uptown has long been known for its busy shopping on Magazine Street, the Audubon Park and affiliated zoo, Tulane and Loyola Universities, and of course, the St. Charles Streetcar, which you can hop on or off at any time and get where you are headed with some historical class. 

And this recipe of local culture, students, visitors looking for a good time (outside of the busy French Quarter), and not to mention restaurant and shopping enthusiasts, creates a blend of interests and demands. Uptown rises to the highest challenge when it comes to entertaining its guests, whether visitors or local residents. And in many instances, this challenge is met all night long, making Uptown nightlife such a treat. 

Evening Plans

Why rush to dinner when there is so much to do in the buildup (and when many restaurants stay open late)? Let your appetite grow as you take a stroll through the Paradigm Gardens or maybe catch a ghost sighting at the Lafayette Cemetery. Or, if ghosts aren’t your thing, perhaps you are thinking of catching a performance at the Roussel Performance Hall or the Nunemaker Auditorium. After all, what goes better with dinner than a glass of something delicious and conversation about the amazing show you just experienced?

And when it comes to dinner, the options are not limited. Whether you are looking for a fancy coursed-out dinner or you simply want a burger and a cold beer, Uptown offers plenty of dishes. 

If you are looking to keep the local flare in your palette for the evening, consider such staples as Commander’s Palace and Restaurant or Clancy’s. A bit of traditional class comes with your feast at these spots. On the other hand, keep it local but take it down a notch by trying out Jacques-Imo’s Cafe or hop over to Atchafalaya Restaurant. These are reliable spots where you can get those great Creole flavors without the fuss.

If French-style cuisine is on your mind, you will not be disappointed, as there is no shortage of French flare going around. La Crepe Nanou is a popular spot, known for its host of desserts and pastries, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find a delicious grilled lamb or sauteed vegetable dish on the menu. And the rumor is that their steamed mussels are the best you will find.

Another French option is Coquette, which resides in a classic two-story building and boasts a long 14-stool bar. The classy decor will help you ease into your night if you haven’t already done so. But don’t think this means you have to dress formally for the meal. Coquette maintains an air of classy vibe but requests business casual attire only for enjoyment. 

Drinks on the Menu

Some nights call for menus where the cocktails take center stage. And in typical Uptown fashion, just as plenty of places serve a delicious dish, you will not be disappointed by the number of bartenders who are sure to quench your craving for that perfect cocktail.

Whatever type of night you are having, Uptown has a watering hole to match it. This is another thing that is so great about Uptown, you don’t have to dress for the occasion, since the occasion is already ready for you. If a t-shirt is your brand of choice for the night, consider swinging through Domilise’s Restaurant and Bar or Henry’s. Both easy going with simple food options (late night po boy, anyone?) and guaranteed good times. 

Don’t forget that Uptown is home to two universities as well, and the Uptown bar scene hasn’t forgotten them either. If you have some of-age students in your evening crew, then Snake & Jake’s might be your evening route or check out the Boot. 

If outdoor patios are your thing, and you are sticking with that casual vibe, you can’t go wrong with Le Bon Temps Roule. A good selection of beers and liquors, and one place you are less likely to run into tourists looking for a street-served hurricane in a tall plastic party cup, as this place prides itself on staying away from those flashy cocktails that attract so many French Quarter weekenders. Also, Le Bon Temps Roule serves up free oysters on Friday nights and boasts live bands that are sure to make it big, but you can catch them here in an intimate setting before they do.

If you want to take your cocktail game up a notch, head over to the Bouligny Tavern or Cure. Both are favorites among the locals and pride themselves on serving up a craft cocktail or better-than-your-average-bottle glass of wine.

Live Music for All

What sort of night in New Orleans would be complete without some live music? In fact, there is so much live music in New Orleans it’s as if you breathe it in while you are walking down the street. And while you could follow your ears to a location, there are a few musts in Uptown where you can’t miss.

Tipitina’s is a rustic warehouse space that is primed for dancing. While the space holds 1,000 people, it maintains its intimate vibe. Established in 1977, this venue is a staple for mainstream and local artists alike, and the sounds from the stage never fail to get that dance floor moving and grooving. 

Another must-visit venue in Uptown is the Maple Leaf. However, unlike Tipitina’s, which pulls acts in from all over, Maple Leaf focuses on local musicians only. Because of that, Maple Leaf is a one-of-a-kind night out, bringing you some of the finest local funk or jazz you are likely to ever hear. If you are looking to have a great night and impress a partner or group of friends with some jazzy tunes they won’t hear anywhere else, Maple Leaf is your spot.

A Final Consideration

Whether you are checking out Uptown real estate for your next location, or just thinking of visiting, there is no question that music, drinks, and food are a popular recipe for Uptown nightlife. 

However, there are some out there who want a more relaxed evening with a robust cigar. If you are one of these people, Uptown has the spot for you—Dos Jefes Uptown Cigar Bar. Comfy leather couches, live music (but not too loud), and a fine top-shelf liquor selection to keep your evening burning at your own pace. And yes, if you want a cigar but don’t want to sit in a cloud of smoke, they have an outdoor patio for your enjoyment as well.