For many years, New Orleanians have associated the word “Jolie” with a certain, somewhat eccentric local power couple. That looks to change in late 2023, when a new cocktail lounge and brasserie called Jolie comes to 324 Julia St. in the Warehouse District.
Putting cultural references to one side, Jolie looks to offer fresh takes on classic cocktails alongside a menu of French-influenced small plates that are perfect for a lounge setting, such as savory beignets and tempura frogs’ legs, according to operating partner Andrew Duncan. Although there’s an element of elegance to Jolie, Duncan told What Now New Orleans that people should feel at ease when they walk in, and order whatever makes them feel good.
“We’re not taking ourselves too seriously,” he stressed. “We want people to come here and have a great experience. You know, if someone comes here and doesn’t want a craft cocktail, they want a gin-and-tonic, that’s absolutely fine with us.”
Jolie is being backed by a collective of ‘blue chip’ hospitality investors. According to an artist’s renderings, ownership’s plan is to create a clean modern space with classic 20th-century design touches. If everything goes according to that plan, it looks like the Warehouse District is set to add another gem to its growing treasure trove of hospitality options.
“I just want people to come and enjoy the space,” Duncan mused. “It’s going to be unique and quite a beautiful space. That’s just my opinion. People should come and see it for themselves.”
