New Orleans
Creole dining and cocktails in New Orleans at 9301 Lake Forest Blvd—your late night restaurant, hookah lounge, and private-room spot for brunch, date night, birthday dinners, and girls night out.
Our Story
Located at 9301 Lake Forest Blvd, Unit 100, in New Orleans East, The Verdict Lounge & Restaurant is a Black-owned and women-owned dining and nightlife destination. We bring together the rich culinary heritage of the South and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans in a contemporary, upscale atmosphere designed for memorable evenings, date nights, celebrations, and nights out with friends.
Our menu features New Orleans-style dishes and Southern favorites with creative touches, from fried chicken sliders, Verdict Wings, seafood platters, and gourmet burgers to Pan-Seared Redfish, Grilled Salmon, Chicken Alfredo Pasta, Cornbread Muffins, Hush Puppies, and Mac & Cheese. Crafted cocktails made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients complement every meal, while live music on select nights adds energy to the lounge experience.
Whether you are planning a birthday dinner, corporate gathering, wedding reception, or private event, our team offers customizable space and menu options to suit the occasion. With a refined dress code, adult-focused atmosphere, and a commitment to flavorful food, welcoming service, and local culture, The Verdict is proud to offer a distinctive restaurant and lounge experience in New Orleans.
Gallery
Where We Serve
Live & On Stage
A look inside the room in New Orleans — the plates, the pours, and the sound.
Guest Reviews
★★★★★
Emani was absolutely amazing per usual!! She’s my favorite hostess!! Great personality and very attentive. Always checking in to see if you need anything! That’s exceptional service to me! Taco Tuesday is such a vibe! Great job to the owners and staff as well!
★★★★★
Emoni, was PHENOMENAL! She was attentive and very knowledgeable of the menu.
★★★★★
Danielle was so extrovented and so helpful I really did appreciate her!
★★★★★
Emani was great. This was out 1st time but won’t be the last. Great atmosphere and even better customer service!!
★★★★★
The Verdict is absolutely amazing! From the food to the atmosphere and the incredible staff, everything was top-notch. I would highly recommend this restaurant to everyone! The shrimp and grits were to die for! They were loaded with shrimp and crawfish tails, topped with green onions, and finished with an absolutely delicious sauce that brought everything together perfectly. Every bite was full of flavor! If you’re looking for great food, a beautiful atmosphere, and excellent service, The Verdict is definitely worth a visit. I can’t wait to go back
★★★★☆
Pros...Very nice, clean, intimate venue, good food/small bites and drinks. Great neighborhood place to meet up w/friends for drinks. Con...The music is way too loud while eating bc its a small venue...hard to hear, have to speak very loud at your table to hear bc the music is very loud
★★★★★
I loved the vibes, food, and drinks! The Dj was bomb, go girl!
★★★★★
The best vibe and great time Emani gave great service
★★★★☆
I went here for my birthday celebration with 15 other guest of mine and dnt get me wrong the atmosphere is on point music is on point vibes were amazing so that get a 10 out of 10 but the food I ordered the lamp chops potatoes and asparagus the lamp chops were ok the asparagus was the best part I also had salmon bite that had way tooo much breading that you barely had salmon the best part of that was the sauce my boyfriend order a medium well steak it came back rare the crawfish egg rolls tasted like frozen pizza my best friend had barbecue shrimp that had no flavor my aunts friend oyster looked and tasted like they came out the freezer my nanny shrimp poboy had bread and butter pickles on it the food just wasn’t on point at all I dnt know if it was because my party was large or what but no I didn’t enjoy the food but the atmosphere was amazing I just didn’t want to ruin my night with complaining I did tell the waitress that something were wrong when she brought the food out but she didn’t return to fix it it took about 30-45 to get our drinks
★★★★★
Love the atmosphere and food‼️
Good To Know
The menu can accommodate group dinners with seafood platters and traditional Creole-inspired favorites. Guests can choose options such as shrimp po’ boys, pan-seared redfish, grilled salmon, hush puppies, cornbread muffins, and mac and cheese. For larger parties, it’s best to contact the restaurant ahead of time to discuss menu choices, seating, reservations, and any event details.
Live music is featured on select nights to give guests a lively, unique nightlife experience. There is an entertainment fee per person, which helps support local artists performing in the lounge. This fee is included on live entertainment nights and adds to the energetic vibe while you enjoy your meal and drinks.
All parties have a maximum two-hour stay as part of our house rules. This helps us give each group a fair chance to enjoy their visit, especially during busy nights. If you're planning a special occasion or private event and need more time, reach out to our team in advance about event bookings. For regular dining reservations, though, the two-hour limit applies.
Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead is definitely recommended on weekends or during peak hours. The lounge can get busy, especially when live music is scheduled, so reserving a table online or calling ahead helps make sure you get a spot without a long wait. If you’re coming with a group or for a special event, it’s best to reserve in advance for the best experience.
You’re welcome to come in late just for desserts and non-alcoholic drinks. The lounge keeps the kitchen open for sweet treats and a variety of regular beverages like fruit punch, sweet tea, Coke, and Sprite, perfect for enjoying the late night atmosphere—even if you’ve already had dinner elsewhere. Just keep in mind there may still be an entertainment fee if there’s live music or events happening that night.
To reserve a private room for a wedding reception, corporate event, or special occasion, fill out the events form available on the website or email event@theverdictlounge.com with your details. You’ll need to provide information like the event type, guest count, preferred seating area, and any special requests. Menu and seating options can be customized to fit your needs, so mention any preferences when you book. The team will follow up to help you choose the right package and finalize the details for your event.
The cocktail menu features several signature drinks made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients. Popular options include The Gangsta, The Vault, Queen Pin, The Verdict, Plead The Fifth, and Kingpin, each priced at $15. All cocktails are crafted to pair well with Southern-inspired dishes and fit the venue’s trendy atmosphere. These signature drinks get great feedback, and guests usually enjoy starting with favorites like The Verdict or The Gangsta when visiting the lounge. The full cocktail menu is available at your table, and staff can offer recommendations based on your taste preferences.
We always do our best to help guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions. Please let your server know about any allergies or special dietary needs as soon as you arrive, or share your requirements in advance when making your reservation. Many menu items can be adjusted or we can suggest options that fit your needs. While we take extra care to prevent cross-contact in our kitchen, please keep in mind that all our dishes are prepared in the same area, so trace amounts may be present. If you have specific concerns or need guidance on menu choices for allergies or dietary preferences, just ask and we’ll walk you through the safest options for you.
On Saturdays, a strict dress code is enforced. Outfits with offensive, vulgar, or inappropriate language or images aren’t allowed. Athletic wear, tank tops, and flip flops are also not permitted. You’ll want to wear neat, stylish clothing that fits the upscale vibe—think dress shirts, blouses, slacks, or nice dresses. The idea is to keep things polished for a classy night out.
Currently, hookah service is not available at this lounge. Guests can enjoy a full menu of Southern-inspired dishes, creative cocktails, and live music in a vibrant, adult-focused atmosphere. There are important house rules to follow, like a dress code that bans offensive or athletic attire, and an age policy limiting guests under 21 after 10PM. All purchases must be made with card or digital payment—cash is not accepted. For dining, there’s a two-hour stay limit per party, and gratuity is added automatically. Check for updates on new offerings, as the experience and available services may change over time.
From New Orleans
Creamy chicken alfredo, a bold red cocktail, and a burger stacked just right. Some dinners really do cover all the cravings at once. 🍝 Our kitchen plates up rich, creamy pasta with grilled chicken and warm garlic bread, alongside juicy burgers and fries that hit the table hot and fresh. Pair it with one of our handcrafted cocktails mixed with premium spirits, and your weeknight just turned into something special. As a late night restaurant, the evening doesn't have to end when dinner does. We're proud to be a Black owned restaurant New Orleans locals keep choosing for good food and good energy. Whether you're planning a girls night out New Orleans style, searching for the best date night restaurant New Orleans couples actually enjoy, or need a birthday dinner restaurant New Orleans groups can celebrate at with a private room, we've got a table with your name on it. Tonight's lineup: 🍝 Creamy chicken alfredo pasta 🍔 Gourmet burger and fries 🍹 Signature handcrafted cocktails ✨ Grown, stylish lounge vibes Reserve your table online and come eat well tonight. 🌹
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You can yell at the TV at home. But who’s bringing you wings and pouring touchdown shots? ⚜️ Catch Saints vs. Giants this Sunday, October 18, at noon at The Verdict Restaurant & Lounge in New Orleans East. Big screens, wings, cocktails, and free shots for every Saints touchdown! Send this to your game-day people. Who’s coming in black and gold? 🖤💛 #SaintsWatchParty #SaintsVsGiants #WhoDat #NewOrleansEast #TheVerdictLounge
The only love triangle worth your time comes with tacos. 🌮😂 Make Taco Tuesday plans at The Verdict Restaurant & Lounge in New Orleans East. Tacos, cocktails, and $25 hookah on Tuesdays—give that group chat somewhere to be. Tag the friend who’s always “not hungry” but eats off your plate. #TheVerdictLounge #TacoTuesday #NewOrleansEast #NOLAEats #NewOrleansRestaurants
Your group chat has made enough imaginary plans. Pick a day and actually show up. This week at The Verdict Restaurant & Lounge in New Orleans East: 🌮 Tuesday: Taco Tuesday + $25 hookah 🥩 Thursday: $19.99 Steak Night—8-oz ribeye + baked potato—and $25 hookah 🍎 Friday: Teachers’ Lounge, 4–6 PM, teachers only 💋 Friday night: Flirty Friday 🎤 Saturday: Karaoke at 7:30 PM 🥂 Sunday: Brunch at 11 AM + Saints vs. Giants at noon. Free shots for every Saints touchdown! ⚜️ Closed Monday and Wednesday. Send this to the friend who keeps saying, “We need to go out.” Which day are y’all coming? #TheVerdictLounge #NewOrleansEast #NewOrleansRestaurants #NewOrleansNightlife #NOLABrunch
Brunch season is in full swing, and the fall air makes shrimp and grits taste even better. 🍤 Our brunch menu brings New Orleans comfort to the table with catfish and grits, banana pancakes with bacon, chicken and waffles, and a classic traditional breakfast for those who like to keep it simple. Add a round of mimosas or a drink from the bar, and you've got a morning worth slowing down for. If you're hunting for the best brunch in New Orleans with a grown, stylish atmosphere, this is your spot. It's a favorite for girls night out New Orleans energy in brunch form, and a fun pick for the best date night restaurant New Orleans couples who want to start their day instead of ending it here. We're proud to be a Black owned restaurant New Orleans locals brunch with on the regular. On the menu: 🧇 Chicken and waffles 🍤 Shrimp and grits 🐟 Catfish and grits 🥞 Banana pancakes with bacon 🍹 Brunch cocktails and bar drinks Reserve a table online and come brunch with us in New Orleans East. ✨
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Happy hour hits different when the fries are loaded and the cocktails are cold. 🍹 Kick off your weekend the right way with our happy hour specials, featuring hamburger and fries, wings and fries, fish and fries, and loaded fries that are worth every bite. Pair it with a tropical cocktail and you've got the perfect start to any evening in New Orleans East. As a late night restaurant with a grown, stylish vibe, we're the spot where good food turns into a full night out. Whether you're winding down after work or kicking off girls night out New Orleans style, our lounge delivers bold Creole flavor, crafted drinks, and an atmosphere that keeps regulars coming back. We're proud to be a Black owned restaurant New Orleans locals count on for the best lounge energy around. What's on special: 🍔 Hamburger and fries 🍗 Wings and fries 🐟 Fish and fries 🧀 Loaded fries 🍹 Tropical cocktails to match Grab your crew and claim a table for happy hour. The verdict is already in. ✨
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Nothing makes our night like hearing you felt taken care of. One guest said, “Emani was so sweet and helpful!!!” and that’s exactly the kind of energy we love to bring to every table in New Orleans. If you’re searching for a late night restaurant where the vibe stays grown and the Creole flavors hit the spot, come hang with us. Planning a celebration? We’re also a restaurant with private room options that’s great for a birthday dinner restaurant New Orleans families and friends can enjoy without feeling cramped. And if you’re trying to keep it fun and a little fancy, we’re a top pick for girls night out New Orleans plans and a best date night restaurant New Orleans couples love when they want dinner and a lounge-style evening in one place. Make your reservation and come spend your next night out with us.
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TOMORROW. SAINTS. FALCONS. THE VERDICT. ⚜️🏈🔥 New Orleans East, the rivalry is ON! Saints vs. Falcons Monday Night Football is going down tomorrow, and we’re watching it BIG at The Verdict Restaurant & Lounge. 🍗 $1 Wings 🥃 FREE shots for every Saints touchdown 🍺 Beer buckets 📺 Big screens ⏰ Game starts at 7:15 PM Don’t wait until kickoff to figure out where everybody’s watching. Get your crew together and meet us at The Verdict. 📍 9301 Lake Forest Blvd. | New Orleans East WHO DAT! ⚜️ Tag your game-day crew below. #SaintsVsFalcons #SaintsWatchParty #NewOrleansSaints #WhoDatNation #MondayNightFootball
Red pendant lights, good conversation, and the kind of energy you can't find just anywhere. 🎶 That's a Friday night done right in New Orleans East. Fall weekends are officially here, and our lounge is the spot to settle in after a long week. Whether you're after the best lounge in New Orleans for live music on select nights or a late night restaurant where dinner turns into the whole evening, we've got the atmosphere covered. Crafted cocktails, bold Creole plates, and a grown, stylish crowd make every visit feel like an occasion. Planning something special? As a restaurant with private room options, we make celebrations easy, and our space is a favorite for girls night out New Orleans plans. We're proud to be a Black owned restaurant New Orleans locals keep on their weekend rotation. Things to know before you arrive: 🍹 Signature cocktails mixed with premium spirits 🎵 Live music on select nights 🌙 A grown atmosphere with a dress code to match 📍 Card and digital payments only Grab your crew and book a table online. We'll save you a seat under the lights. ✨
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TEACHERS, THE BELL RANG… NOW CLOCK OUT.🍸📚 It’s Teachers Lounge Friday at The Verdict Restaurant & Lounge! Grab your teacher besties and come decompress after a long week. No lesson plans, no grading papers — just food, cocktails and grown-folks time. 🥂 ⏰ Today | 4–6 PM 📍 The Verdict Restaurant & Lounge | New Orleans East Tag a teacher who needs to be OUTSIDE after work today. 👇🏾 #TeachersLounge #TeacherHappyHour #NewOrleansTeachers #NOLATeachers #NewOrleansHappyHour