Dive bars are, by definition, a bit rough around the edges. But to take one on, make needed changes and bring it back in a way that still feels right requires a delicate touch.
The right balance is on display now at Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks St.). It closed in 2024 and got new owners, including partners at a growing circuit of related New Orleans bars.
Banks Street Bar reopened in late December, and this Saturday (Jan. 11) hosts its official grand opening (or reopening). Lonesome Wilde, a project from local front man Micah McKee will inaugurate the stage for this new chapter, starting at 9 p.m.
This returns a long-time neighborhood fixture and restores a needed venue to the dwindling ranks of bars hosting live music. There’s also a tie-in with a pair of neighboring restaurants for a different take on bar food.
Meet the new crew
Banks Street Bar has been around since 1959, through many different incarnations.
As a fan of dive bars in general, and Mid-City bars in particular, I was curious to see the new rendition and also optimistic given the track record of the new owners…