Lulu's Speakeasy

Taking its cue from a historic New Orleans madam, the venue fills its subterranean space with variety shows, DJ sets, and live bands alongside its own dedicated bar. The menu leans decidedly Southern, dishing up savory beignets with crawfish cheese sauce, catfish nuggets, and shrimp and grits alongside sweet pours like hurricanes and king cake coladas. Reactions are mixed: while the decor draws praise, some visitors find the specialty cocktails unremarkable for the price and the seating better suited for a quick pre- or post-dinner drink than an all-night lounge sprawl.