This Speakeasy Hidden Under a Theater in Louisiana Is Perfect for a Date Night

New Orleans doesn't have many basements, but the Orpheum Theater hides one incredible exception. Tucked underneath this historic venue is the Double Dealer—a hidden Louisiana speakeasy that opened in 2021 and quickly became a NOLA favorite. While the theater above is a legendary landmark, the real secret is what’s waiting below the floorboards.

When it first opened in 1921, the Orpheum was the place to be for vaudeville. Over the decades, it hosted everything from silent movies to major musical acts, narrowly escaping demolition in the '80s to earn a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, that history sets the perfect stage for the Double Dealer, which captures that same vintage soul in one of the most unique bar settings in the city.

True to its speakeasy roots, the entrance is understated and easy to miss. Keep an eye out for a pair of double doors marked with the Double Dealer logo; once you find them, you can head downstairs—or take the elevator—to leave the modern world behind. As you step inside, the bar unfolds into a series of themed rooms, and it’s well worth your while to wander through and explore each one.

Expect the unexpected as you navigate the space! In one area, mirrors act as disguised doors that lead you into the Green Room. Here, stage costumes adorn the walls to make you feel like you've been whisked backstage at a vaudeville-era show. Velvet curtains and plush chairs dramatically set the scene for the venue’s frequent live performances.

Because the lineup is delightfully unpredictable, it’s a good idea to check the Double Dealer website ahead of time to see who is taking the stage. Of course, the real "headliners" here are found on the cocktail menu, where every single drink is named after a specific short story or poem found in the original Double Dealer magazine.

This 1920s literary journal, which gave the bar its name, was a powerhouse for Southern letters. It featured early works by icons like Ernest Hemingway, Thornton Wilder, and William Faulkner—in fact, the magazine published one of Faulkner's very first pieces!

In a city that often feels like a stage, the Double Dealer is the ultimate backstage pass. It’s a place where the history isn't just on the walls—it’s in the glass, the music, and the very air of the room. Once you’ve found those double doors, you’re no longer just a visitor; you’re part of a century-old New Orleans story.

If you know of another hidden Louisiana speakeasy that deserves the spotlight, tell us about it by filling out our nomination form. Be sure to visit the official website of the Double Dealer for more information, and don't forget to follow them on Facebook for upcoming announcements.

As always, remember to drink responsibly. To play it safe, consider booking a stay at a nearby hotel like The Roosevelt, and discover nine more reasons why New Orleans is truly the most unique city in America.

Feeling inspired to start your own Big Easy adventure? Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a deep dive into Louisiana's culture, let us help you turn these local treasures into a reality. You can easily organize your must-see stops and discover even more off-the-beaten-path destinations by using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to build your own legendary travel experience.