There's just something so refreshing and exciting about a new year starting.
Who knows what the next 12 months will bring, but you have a feeling that it will be just a little bit better than the past year. You kept the holiday pounds at bay, and your New Year's outfit is fierce. The big question is where should you go so that everyone will be looking at you instead of watching the ball drop.
New Orleans has many hip bars and lounges that are the perfect backdrop for your glamorous New Year's celebration pictures. All you have to worry about is showing up and standing out.
Jolie sits in an inconspicuous space at 324 Julia St. in the Warehouse District, just close enough to the pumping action of the French Quarter but far enough away to be in your own little world. Jolie features mostly lounge seating in plush furnishings with low tables so they won't block the view of your outfit. The beautifully-lit bar protrudes away from the wall so that you can steal glances at your fellow patrons across it. There's also plenty of room around the bar seats to approach that mystery person and make an introduction before the ball drops. Reservations are highly recommended for a table.
Those wanting to stay far away from the downtown crowds may prefer the location of MAZE Cocktail Lounge at 5123 Canal Blvd. in Mid-City. This is a cozy and intimate spot that is great for small groups of friends and singles. MAZE regularly hosts singles mixers, so this is a great spot to meet someone new—who actually lives here. The Bulldog is just steps away if you want to bounce between two different vibes.
Every French Quarter bar will be hosting a New Year's soiree, but one somewhat hidden lounge will be open for those with otherworldly taste. Potions Lounge is located at 733 Bourbon St. but knowing the address may not help you get in. There's a secret phrase to be uttered for entrance that cannot be revealed in this article. The good people at Boutique du Vampyre may be able to help you, though. The patrons at this lounge overlooking the throngs of Bourbon Street have probably seen many New Year's celebrations throughout the last few centuries.
If you want high-energy all night long, Ohm Lounge is the place to be and has been since it opened in 2013. It may be small, but that just means there's plenty of fun to be had with everyone. Club music will be pumping while you enjoy dancing under the sexy red lights. This place can really fill up, so be prepared to get up close and personal with everyone there.
A beautifully-restored building at 2401 St. Claude Ave. houses Minted Lounge, which holds booze, food, and burlesque shows. It's an upscale spot that is easy to walk to for those living in the Marigny/Bywater and easy enough to drive to. This spot is perfect for couples who want to take up a spot at a two-seat table to have deep conversations while people watching over dinner. A slice of red velvet cake is a great way to start 2025.
Just across the street from Minted Lounge is a late-night cocktail spot lit with deep red/orange lights that make everyone look sexy. NightBloom has a tropical, almost vaporwave aesthetic. The large rectangle bar top allows you to check out people from across the room with ease. Order that potentially-special new someone a signature cocktail while making eye-contact. The bar closes at 2 a.m., so you have plenty of time to chat them up.
Monkey Hill Bar is an Uptown hangout sitting on the corner of 6100 Magazine St. that has won Where Y'at Magazine's Best Upscale Bar award several times. Blame it on the many types of martinis they serve. The luxurious leather couches are so comfortable that you won't realize how quickly time is passing. Don't worry, someone will be watching the clock wind down, so you won't miss the big moment. Monkey Hill Bar is a local haven that is best for those wanting to stay out of the madness of downtown.
You've got the new 'fit, and you want to show it off. The deep red walls, animal-print carpet and bar stools, and false bookcase wall of Bar Métier at 544 Carondelet St. will be a wonderful backdrop for you. Take some time to peruse the extensive and well-appointed cocktail menu to get the perfect drink to go along with your dress. This bar is perfectly positioned to allow you to cruise through the French Quarter before retiring here for a more intimate midnight celebration.
If 2025 is going to be your sexiest year yet, Fétiche right off of Bourbon Street at 817 St. Louis St. is a hot ticket. This fetish-themed bar is a good photo spot with pink lighting, fun furniture, and chains just begging to wrap around you. Live shibari performances will tantalize, and the human-sized cage hanging from the ceiling entices. You and your lover may get some ideas to try out in the new year.
If your New Year's resolution is to get out and meet some people, or to get to know each other better than ever, these luxe lounges are happy to start your 2025 off right.
