The Scene
Since it opened in 1999, Circle Bar (one of the businesses encircling a statue of Robert E. Lee) has built on the popularity of the site's former establishment, the fringe favorite Fleur de Lee.

Space is at a premium, whether you're edging your way past the bar to the restrooms or angling for a seat in the tiny performance area. The intimate environs only heighten the surreal aspects of the place.

The crowd consists of cooler-than-thou college students, local musicians (some of whom you may find working the bar), refugee hipsters from the Ninth Ward and particularly adventurous tourists.


The Draw
It's become a necessary stop on most hip night crawlers' itineraries, thanks to a loose, friendly vibe and a roster of eclectic acts leaning to the indie-rock side. Irreverent acts including Alex McMurray, the Geraniums and Rotary Downs play the homey performance room regularly.

This tiny bar is among the most bohemian-hip in town, courtesy of the slightly twisted folks behind Snake & Jake's. Ambience is the key; it's got the ever-popular "elegant decay" look, from peeling wallpaper to a neon glow from an old K&B drugstore sign on the ceiling. The jukebox keeps the quirky romantic mood going, thanks to bewitching, mood-enhancing selections from the Velvet Underground, Dusty Springfield, and Curtis Mayfield. The clientele is real and real laid-back. Live music includes mostly local acts such as the sarcastically depressed Glyn Styler. Bet you'll see us there...