THIS PLACE! Oh my gosh -- SO FUN. Such a gem, seriously. We walked by and decided that we just had to go inside. And I'm so glad we did, because we made friends and had to come back 2 more times before we left NOLA. It's a dive but a quirky and unique one. We had all kinds of different drinks, including the homemade Jell-O shots, and loved every one. Get to know the staff and you'll be so glad that you did. They are truly all amazing and so much fun. Good vibes only! read more

The Golden Lantern - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Chances are pretty likely that this is the friendliest gay bar in New Orleans. Jamie W and I were doing a rather cursory search when we came upon the enthusiastic reviews for this corner spot on the northeastern edge of the French Quarter. It definitely felt off the beaten track because it required a ride on the red Riverfront Streetcar Line. When we entered the premises, we immediately thought it was a sports bar given all the TV screens that were on, each featuring a different game. Sitting at the bar, there was more of a frisky friendliness from the bearish bartender. His gregarious personality made us feel right at home and not like some dyed-in-the-wool tourists. The subtle decorative elements exposed the true orientation of the bar. There was also a baby boomer vibe because where else would you see a vintage movie poster of "Man's Favorite Sport?" starring Rock Hudson and Paula Prentiss (Photo 3). The price was right: $5 Tequila Sunrises (Photo 10). They were potent, too. Keep 'em comin'. DRINKS - 5 stars...the price and potency were just right AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...divey and a tad crowded SERVICE - 4 stars...nice bartender TOTAL - 4 stars...another round might've pushed this rating to 5 stars RELATED - Exploring New Orleans? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/kh-rxp4CKU read more

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The Golden Lantern was right by where we were staying in New Orleans, and the vibes were IMMACULATE. The music was great for this 90s/00s loving girl, the bartender was so nice and helpful, and the drinks were cheap and plentiful. Like many other bars and shops in New Orleans, they are cash only, but they have an ATM right in the bar, so don't worry too much about that. It's definitely a little bit divey, in the size and age of the place, but that doesn't hurt the atmosphere at all. Everyone is there to have a great time, and we definitely did when we visited! read more

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Best place in Quarter for drinks, food, Local color Vanessa Carr, etc.. Always a party. read more

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Omg. DIVE Bar at its finest!!! Yes. Yes. Yes!! Vibe is wonderful and chill. We took our lunch in and ate while sipping a cocktail. People are here to chill, make a friend and have fun. Definitely a place to come because you will leave with an uplifted heart and a smile on your face. read more

The Golden Lantern - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

I accidently discovered this wonderful dive bar as I was wandering down Royal. It started to rain so I made the tactical decision to pop in for a drink or two. The sign at the entrance pretty much tells you it's going be a real interesting experience but to leave your drama at the doorway. Well, I walked into Cheers the New Orleans version. The regulars were all bellied up to the bar and not being very bashful regarding their afternoon drinking. After a few minutes I was involved in conversations with the barkeep and customers. I even got to meet and exchange pleasentries with a patron who said everyone knows him as the gay Norm.... For those who don't know Norm was the regualar in the Cheers Sitcom and was always greeted with a hearty NORM!!! Drinks are strong and inexpensive. This is a must stop if you are in the area or on your way to Frenchmen St. read more

The Golden Lantern - Who Dat Golden Ale and a ....... - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Solid Chinese place! Me and my friend were set on not eating dinner one night and then five minutes before 10 PM, we had a change of heart. Luckily, this place is right across the street of hotel we were staying at. We called our order in, ran across the street, and then had to wait maybe an extra five minutes for our entire order to be ready. Food was good and service was fast. I got the mapo tofu which was huge and it also came with a side of rice read more

Stopped in because we saw they had Bloody Marys, and I just have to say YUM! Definitely the best I had during this visit. And one wasn't enough--the rich flavor along with pickled green beans and okra and those salty olives had us craving another the next morning. read more

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This place has great drinks, great prices and is super friendly! Incredible vibes. Whether you are visiting or not, The Golden Lantern is a beautiful spot and the regulars and all are amazing people. Thank you for a great time guys! Great movies as well! read more

One of the Best Bloody Mary's in the Quarter!!! Great flavor and nice heat on the backend. I enjoy the picking flavor that goes along with it. The addition of pickled green beans, okra and olives can't be beat! And one of the best things you can take it with you and explore this beautiful section of a wonderful city! read more

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this place was a hoot! If you want a fun neighborhood gay dive bar, look no further. The Golden Lantern is a treat!

Liza is absolutely amazing! Not only did she craft the best drinks, but she truly took incredible care of us. She's friendly, genuine, caring, and hands down the best bartender in all of New Orleans. Can't recommend her enough!!! We come back every year just for her! read more

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We stopped in here to grab drinks to go after reading about their bloody marys online. People said they were very good and they are. It's a little bit on the outskirts of the quarter but I felt it was worth the walk. The bartender who helped us was very friendly and while we didn't hang out, I did like the music they played while we were there. It seemed like it would be a fun spot to hang out for a while. read more

The Golden Lantern - The best Bloody Mary - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Omg. The best place ever!. One of the first gay bars. Lots of fun open 24/7. Can't say enough. Go there such a gem that is local and fun! read more

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Golden Lantern, where have you been all my life? Tucked in the lower quarter on Royal Street, I've walked on by for years, loving the crowd that gathers outside. Anytime I've popped in, it was so crowded, I couldn't even make it to the bar. I had the perfect Halloween night here with a small group of friends in town who smartly suggested it. I was like, "no way, we'll never get in," but I was wrong. It was the perfect amount of people and a friendly festive crowd at that. We braved the chill outside for a bit, then found a table to stand at inside. The DJ was playing the best music (think: singalong or dance vibes), the bartenders are really nice and the drinks were cheap. They have bubbly by the split! Hello, new favorite quarter bar! read more

So...my husband and I just happened to park near this place to go somewhere else. Upon returning to the car I decided to go see if I could get a virgin bloody mary. At first the bartender was very nice and accommodating but then became very vulgar. I took my drink and got out quickly. My drink was very tasty though. I realize it's a bar and all but still have some respect for your customers. I couldn't tell you about the atmosphere or decor or anything because I was in and out. read more

The Golden Lantern - Bloody Mary - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

This is a total neighborhood vibe dive kind of bar. Cannot beat the prices on drinks and entertainment is fun. Bartenders are a little cranky but not in a rude way kind of a dry way lol. read more

We had hoped to stop in for some of the live performances, but never got our timing right. However, we enjoyed grabbing some drinks and hanging out outside on their sidewalk table/chairs. Inside was a little too dark for our taste, but there was plenty of space and seating. Ok variety of beers and drinks and you don't have to wait long for service. Staff was friendly and fast. Made two bonus stars that made me bump the rating up a full star -- they have an old-fashioned cigarette vending machine AND the cleanest and roomiest bathroom I've found in any bar in New Orleans! read more

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Tracy ,the attendant has a very pleasant personality and attitude! She looks like is moving , talking and serving on music rhythm!!!!! Restrooms look clean and smells good! Pets welcomed and loved! I felt really pleased! I'm still here!! Sunday , May 4 2025, 10:18 am. Morning relaaaaxxxx!!!!! read more

Whenever I'm in town I have every intention of checking out the Sunday Drag Show at Golden Lantern and for one reason or another it doesn't happen. (Last time I fell and broke my arm the day of the show and took a last-minute flight out so I could go to the E.R. in Los Angeles.) This time it finally worked out. Golden Lantern is a LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood hangout. Everyone is welcome here - even your pup. It is the birthplace of Southern Decadence, and the starting location for the official Southern Decadence Grand Marshall Parade. The drinks are strong and cheap (cash only) and Happy Hour is from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The Sunday Drag show starts at 5 p.m. and by the time we arrived the place was packed. We found seats at the bar, but I apologize that it wasn't the best spot to take photos. However, I was still able to see the show. The performers were great as were the tunes they were lip-singing to. Everyone in the crowd was having a good time. I will definitely be sure to come earlier next time so I can grab a better seat. If you are looking for a fun place to hang out, Golden Lantern is the spot. There is something going on every night and never a cover charge for entertainment. Check their website for a schedule of events. read more

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Was hoping to find local watering holes of my preference out of the FQ but there's only 1 other in Metairie where we're staying. Luckily found some free street parking a couple blocks over but it is during the week with nothing going on. As for the bar itself, it's really small and congested. There is a parklet outside on the curb but tables and chairs are very uncomfortable plus dealing with the smokers. Bartender was very nice though. read more

Now open again 24/7! Great bar in the quarter! Drag shows Friday and Sunday! Fun staff! Inexpensive draaaanks.

Great service! Such a fun place to feel a part of the New Orleans scene without being in the middle of craziness. read more

The Golden Lantern - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

The bar itself is lovely. The bartender on 2/9, during Mardi Gras, was a crusty, miserable self-loathing old man. He rushed us to order, and insulted us the entire time. He was rude to everyone at the bar; we overheard other customers discussing his unique brand of "service." If I saw him working again, I wouldn't even go in. He was a complete asshole for absolutely no reason. I served it back to him, but who wants to deal with that when they're out just trying to have a good time? Not me, that's for sure. A better career path for this washed up old coot would be working in a warehouse or back office where he doesn't have to interact with people, for our benefit. read more

The drinks are A-Mazing. Good pour that won't break the bank. Ambiance is fun and music choices are great... did I say the drinks are the best in town!?! read more

The Golden Lantern - Bartender-ess extraordinaire with the best bloody Mary in town. - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Great bartender. She was so friendly and very chill. We were able to bring in food and eat it. Great prices for beer, etc.

TLDR; Great gay dive bar. Longer version, I always enjoy a bar in the FQ with lots of locals and this one fits the bill. Bonus points for having jello shots... look sometimes you just want to eat your alcohol, OK? People love their bloody mary's and they have a variety of local beers if that's your thing. You can't go wrong with a basic pour. Would I order a craft cocktail here? Probably not. Warning: if you are full of attitude to the the bartenders or the regulars, expect to be treated with the same disregard that you put out there. I was really impressed last time that I visited that the bathrooms had been given a major upgrade. read more

Was so excited to take my friend to a drag bar, and built up the Golden Lantern based on a previous employee of the bar. Unfortunately the bartender was extremely rude to us!! He was in a sour mood from the moment we ordered our 1st drink. We stayed for another round, and my friend asked when the drag show started. The bartender looked at her with a scowl, and said "Not tonight!" and walked away. I was so embarrassed, because I had bragged for years about how friendly and inclusive drag bars are. This was such a disappointment, DO NOT waste your time or money!! Shame on you Golden Lantern, for misrepresenting such a wonderful community!! read more

Being in my 50's I am pretty much over the gay bar scene, but that being said in my 50's I'm not over the drinking part. I have been to the Golden Lantern many times, most of my visits revolve around Southern Decadence. It's always so crowded and often difficult to order drinks but after achieving said task several times, it's all better and a lot of fun. When I like the Golden Lantern best is when the crowds subside and I can belly up with one of the hardest barstools to get in town. almost always the barstool I want the most has a dog perched on top. On my very last visit there was plenty of space, a talkative bartender and patrons from near and far having a great time. Heavy pours and great service were no issue on this day, and that kept the conversations flowing as well as the tequila. The juke box roared and it seemed the music had a theme of classics from the 70's 80's and 90's I stayed for hours talking story and sipping drinks. It really wasnt a gay bar just a cool bar. I realize this place isn't for everyone, but it is for anyone. read more

Cool little spot! I have heard that they have great drag shows but I have never attended one myself. Ordered a jack and Coke... needed a little more Jack! Friendly people! read more

The Golden Lantern - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Do I recommend AT ALL the owner/ bar tender? idk who the guy was, but I know he was acting VERY WELL LIKE THE OWNER. The guy told me, "If you're going to eat the go, sit at a table at table. " I said I'm not eating? He said if you got a problem with it, then leave. OkAY, we gonna go because you are acting a fool!! SO rude! He thinks he's the only bar in New Orleans. NOPE never aging! The owner treats people like this?? /bartender wanna be owner. Never again. That was so unnecessary. You do not treat customers like that. We were about to spend some money in this place but because he was so rude we left immediately! #ByFelicia read more

Service here is always fantastic. The bartenders are fun and very attentive. The bathrooms are always clean. They are following all COVID protocols. Drink prices are really good. Great neighborhood bar feel. read more

The Golden Lantern - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

This is a cool, laid back place where all the everybody gathers. Very welcoming to all, as long as you also are welcoming. Jerks don't last long here. Bartenders are very cool, but also no-nonsense. I have friends I've met here, and friends I only run into here. The live entertainment is fun, too! read more

Arrived at 8PM for a drink with a group of 10 friends, headed to Frenchmen St and encountered the worst bartender ever... reminded me of the Soup nazi from Seinfeld... He didn't want to serve us... took our drink one at a time... told us "one drink order at at time!" and you can leave!"... Didn't get his name... 60ish bitter white male. read more

If I could give more than 5 stars I would, this was our absolute favorite bar in NOLA and had everything we were looking for, strong cheap drinks, cash only, strong air conditioning, private bathrooms, very LGBT friendly but anyone is welcome here, it's a must see in the French quarter area. read more

The Golden Lantern - Bar area - Gay Bars Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Don't go to this bar. I was in town with my coworkers and we went to this bar on Saturday night (feb 22) based on a recommendation. It was pretty slow when we walked in and we ordered drinks at the bar. Within 10 minutes of arriving, one of my guests started walking out and told me she was kicked out by the bartender. Turns out she didn't realize there was a no vaping rule and the bartender warned her and then winked as if to suggest he didn't really mean it. When she used her vape again, she was rudely asked to leave. I was very disappointed by this unnecessarily dramatic treatment. I asked to speak with the manager to understand the situation and the bartender said he's the manager with a sour attitude. I asked how come you asked my friend to leave and he snarkily said he did that because of her disorderly and disruptive behavior. I said I understand the rules but she thought you were joking. If you asked her nicely, she would have stopped. He said I don't care. I told him he just lost all of our business and he mockingly waved at me while making a face. This type of rude behavior is not appropriate for a gay bar where everyone should be welcome. Shame on you. Grow up. read more

Here is the odd case where a trashy bar can be a classic. This bar has a very inclusive vibe and the bartender is a sweetie. The drinks are in plastic cups and are cheap way cheap. The decor is fun to peruse. This is a great place to hang out and mingle. If you are going to the Quarter is is one of the bars worth a visit. Check your liver at home ... read more

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A cool local bar off the beaten path. Fantastic bloody Mary's and you can't beat the prices. They don't have food here but they offer nearby restaurants and delis for menus. They have some swag too. I love the sign behind the bar! read more

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WOW can you say cheap drinks! $4 margaritas known to knock over grown men. That's my drink. Line em up! This place has the funnest crew - and all the patrons are super nice as well. It's kind of in a neighborhood and so relatively quiet and not super easy to find only cos it's off the beaten path. But I do love this place and if I'm in the neighborhood again I'll be sure to come here. Its super divey and most people just sit at the bar itself. There are some smaller tables around and they do give you drinks to go too. Three cheers for the bartenders there! read more

Always a fun time at the GL. Bartenders have strong pours and always kind to the patrons. They do not sell food but they offer chips & snacks for a small charge. Drinks are cheap here too! I enjoy sitting at the bar and watching the passerbyers as the doors stay open for easy entry. Cash only here though but luckily they provide an ATM on site. read more