5 hours ago
Café Lafitte in Exile: A Beacon of Queer Welcoming in New Orleans’ French Quarter
READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Nestled at the corner of Bourbon and Dumaine Streets in the heart of the French Quarter, Café Lafitte in Exile has served as an LGBTQ+ cornerstone since its founding in 1933, originally opening at a different location before moving to its current site in 1953 . Its longevity is no accident: from the post-Prohibition era through the challenges of the 20th and 21st centuries, the bar has provided an unwaveringly inclusive atmosphere—one of the few spaces in the South where LGBTQ+ individuals could gather safely long before protections were codified into law .
The venue’s name references its forced move from the original Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar due to anti-gay sentiment, with “in Exile” symbolizing both displacement and resilience. It quickly became a focal point for local activists, artists, and notables, including literary icons like Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote, who both frequented the establishment .
Today, Café Lafitte in Exile continues to attract tourists from around the globe, drawn not only by its storied past but also by its vibrant present-day atmosphere. The bar operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a welcoming space regardless of the hour—a rarity even in New Orleans’ famously lively nightlife scene .
The venue is renowned for its colorful balcony overlooking Bourbon Street, making it a prime spot for people-watching during major city events, including Mardi Gras and Southern Decadence, one of the largest LGBTQ+ festivals in the South. During these events, Café Lafitte in Exile hosts themed parties, drag performances, and community fundraisers, solidifying its role as a hub for both entertainment and advocacy .
Beyond its reputation as a nightlife destination, Café Lafitte in Exile is deeply involved in local LGBTQ+ initiatives. The bar supports a range of organizations, including local AIDS assistance groups and youth outreach services, and regularly hosts events that raise awareness and funds for marginalized members of the community .
Staff at the bar, many of whom identify as LGBTQ+, describe their mission as fostering a space where all are welcomed—including transgender people, nonbinary patrons, and those new to the community. The establishment’s zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and its open embrace of diversity have earned it accolades from both local and national LGBTQ+ publications .
For tourists visiting New Orleans—a city consistently ranked among the world’s most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations—Café Lafitte in Exile offers an authentic and affirming experience that blends history, culture, and celebration . The bar is frequently listed in travel guides and reputable LGBTQ+ media as a must-visit spot, both for those seeking nightlife and for travelers interested in understanding the struggles and triumphs of the local LGBTQ+ community .
The venue’s enduring presence and commitment to inclusion serve as a model for LGBTQ+ businesses worldwide, demonstrating how a single establishment can spark change, foster resilience, and offer sanctuary in the heart of a bustling tourist destination.
