About 1104 Decatur St
1104 Decatur Street is a mid-sized live music venue and bar in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It reopened in early 2022 as the new home of the One Eyed Jacks club, under owners Ryan Hesseling and Rio Hackford, with a focus on independent and alternative acts. The building itself is historic – a 19th-century corner property that hosted the famous Toulouse Theatre nightclub decades ago (legendary pianist James Booker used to play piano in its bar) (www.mapquest.com ). From the 1990s until 2015 it was Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Café for 21+ years (neworleanscitybusiness.com ) (www.offbeat.com ); a major $0.9M renovation in 2014–2015 stripped away that “amusement park” décor to prepare the space for B.B. King’s Blues Club, which ran there from late 2015 until the pandemic. Today it’s an intimate concert hall with exposed brick walls (the renovation revealed the original brick behind the old paint (neworleanscitybusiness.com )) and a new half-level mezzanine seating area that overlooks the stage (neworleanscitybusiness.com ). With standing-room floor and limited balcony seating, it holds a few hundred guests in a club-like setting. Its central French Quarter location – just off Bourbon Street and across from Decatur Street’s restaurants – makes it a city landmark for live entertainment.
Events and Programming
1104 Decatur (One Eyed Jacks) hosts a wide variety of live shows. Programming ranges from local and touring rock, indie, blues and jazz bands to dance parties, DJ nights, comedy and themed specialty nights. The room has quickly become known for adventurous bookings: for example, its opening-weekend 2022 lineup featured psychedelic/garage rock with Boyfriend ($25 cover), the experimental LSD Clownsystem, a Mardi-Gras-themed “Big Freedia Gras” night with bounce star Big Freedia ($35) and funk skits, and a set by avant-garde duo Quintron & Miss Pussycat ($20) (www.offbeat.com ). Since then the club has seen everything from alt-rock, punk and metal to New Orleans brass bands and even reggae or electronica. Notable acts have included national touring groups (for instance, shoegaze band Mercury Rev played here in May 2022) as well as popular local and regional artists. The venue also occasionally hosts burlesque shows, local brass band nights, charity benefit shows, and late-night dance parties – all part of its growing eclectic schedule. Weekends often bring back-to-back concerts, while some weeknights see smaller showcases or DJ sets. Ticket prices vary by event but generally range from about $15–$40; opening weekend 2022 shows were roughly $20–$35 each (www.offbeat.com ). Because the club is relatively small, many shows sell out quickly, making it a good idea to book early when high-profile acts are coming through.
Tickets and Booking
For most concerts and events at 1104 Decatur, tickets are sold in advance through the venue’s website and authorized ticketing outlets. One Eyed Jacks has its own online box office (see their official site or OneEyedJacks.net) and may also list shows on major ticket platforms. There is often a day-of-show “box office” window or front-door sale for any remaining tickets, but popular shows frequently sell out long before doors. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets as soon as they go on sale, especially for Dancing and headlining acts. Price tiers depend on the performer: local bands and club nights might be around $15–$20, while out-of-town headliners can be $30 or more. Keep an eye on official One Eyed Jacks social media or newsletters for presale announcements or online promos. On busy nights (especially weekends or holidays) the venue may post a sold-out notice. Tickets are generally e-tickets or print-at-home; a small number of tickets are usually available at the door subject to venue capacity.
Seating and Layout
The floor plan is a typical club layout: a rectangular main floor with the stage at one end and a wraparound bar area along the edges. The stage is full-sized and designed for live bands, with professional PA and lighting. The majority of the audience stands on the ground level in front of the stage – there are no fixed rows in the pit area, so it’s general admission. For those who prefer seating, the renovated mezzanine now overlooks the stage and has bench and bar-seat areas along a railing (neworleanscitybusiness.com ). From there you get a great view of the entire floor and stage. The build-out preserved the building’s high ceilings and brick walls, giving the room good natural acoustics. In fact, during construction the acoustic engineers fine-tuned the sound (adjusting curves and adding dampers) so that live music sounds clear without booming or echoing (neworleanscitybusiness.com ). Sight lines are generally very good: most spots on the floor have a clear stage view, and the balcony seats along the railing are among the best for taking in a show. There are no obstructed-view sections. Since it’s a standing-room club, the best place to watch is usually up front near the stage for maximum energy, or on the upper seating for a wider perspective. (Note that the bar itself runs along a side wall on both levels, so any seats right at the bar can have some foot traffic.) The capacity is on the order of a few hundred people, similar to other mid-size New Orleans clubs – notably, the old One Eyed Jacks on Toulouse Street was about 400-capacity (joynight.com ). The venue also maintains working sound and lighting rigs with on-site engineers for most events, ensuring good coverage anywhere in the room.
Getting There and Parking
1104 Decatur Street is located in the Lower French Quarter (sometimes called Faubourg Tremé) on Decatur between Conti and Orleans streets, right behind the old Café du Monde and just steps north of Bourbon Street. Its exact address is 1104 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116. Because the venue is deep in the Quarter – a famously pedestrian-friendly neighborhood – many guests walk or share rides. By streetcar, the nearest stop is the Rampart–St. Claude Trolley (line 47), which stops on Decatur at Toulouse one block from the club. Several RTA bus lines also serve the area: look for stops on Conti or Decatur for routes such as the Canal-Esplanade line (bus 55), Tulane/河meter lines (32, 51), and local Quarter circulators. For driving, coming downtown via I-10, take Claiborne Avenue or Rampart Street into the Quarter, or from the west use Canal Street and turn onto Decatur. There is no dedicated event parking lot for the club, but a few public parking garages and lots are within a few blocks. For example, Premium Parking’s Lot #P401 at 500 Decatur (corner of Decatur and North Carrollton) is a popular 220-space garage roughly a 3-minute walk away; it charges around $10 for 1 hour, about $16 for 2, up to $18 for 3 hours (en.parkopedia.com ). Another garage is at 211 Conti Street (Lot #P405). Street parking is limited but metered parking is available on Decatur, Conti, and side streets – the meters are typically enforced until midnight. Note that Quarter street parking tends to fill up, and many lots require pre-booking, so allow extra time. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) frequently drop off on Decatur or Conti in front of the venue; a common drop point is near the intersection of Decatur & Conti, one block southeast. After a show, the area remains well lit; guests often split rides or take the trolley/bus back toward Canal Street or their hotels. For out-of-town visitors, major hotels like the Omni Royal Orleans (4 blocks north) and Hyatt French Quarter (3 blocks east) are within walking distance. If driving, note that Bourbon Street has many tour buses, so Decatur is a quieter drop-off point.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive at 1104 Decatur, prepare for a club atmosphere with live entertainment. The front door opens directly into the main floor space; usually security staff will check IDs (patrons must meet the event age limit, often 18+ or 21+) and inspect small bags. Beyond that is the spacious concert area: an open floor in front of the raised stage, a full bar counter along the side wall (serving beer, liquor cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks), and the back wall filled by the kitchen counter. That kitchen counter is run by Bub’s NOLA (a local BBQ-inspired pop-up) (www.offbeat.com ) offering burgers, hot sandwiches, sides and sweets. You can grab Bub’s NOLA favorites (like smoked brisket burgers or boudin balls) to go with custom cocktails or a local craft beer from the bar. The bar itself pours everything from daiquiris and hurricanes to wine and IPA, and staff are typically friendly and quick during shows. The overall vibe is casual and energetic. Staff often wear club-branded T-shirts, the house lighting is colorful but not blinding, and the stage action is the focus. Restrooms are located on the ground floor (gendered men’s and women’s), usually with attendants during big shows to keep lines moving. There may also be a coat check near the entrance (subject to availability at some events) or at least coat hooks on the mezzanine level. Merchandise tables often appear in the lobby for touring bands (t-shirts, CDs, posters), and the main bar area sometimes sells venue or artist vinyls and tees. Some special events have dress-up or Mardi Gras themes, in keeping with neighborhood tradition, but there is generally no strict dress code – patrons come in anything from band T-shirts and jeans to New Orleans festive attire. The sound system and lighting rigs are modern; lights scan the club and smoke is used occasionally. One Eyed Jacks aims for clear, powerful audio (the architects even tuned the acoustics so music won’t overwhelm the space (neworleanscitybusiness.com )), so almost every spot in the room gets full sound. Small signs and staff directions keep minor rules clear (no smoking inside, no outside drinks or large cameras), and doors usually swing open 60–90 minutes before a show. Arriving about 30–45 minutes early is recommended for check-in and finding a good spot.
Nearby Amenities
1104 Decatur lies in the heart of the French Quarter, surrounded by famous New Orleans attractions and amenities. Directly across Decatur Street is the French Market/Shops (an open-air market and mall) and Café du Monde’s original coffee stand; a few blocks north is Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. If you’re hungry before the show, local favorites include Molly’s at the Market (1107 Decatur, casual bar with pizzas and po-boys), Bunk Bar (groovy lounge a few blocks up Decatur), or the historic Café Fleur-de-Lys (French-Creole classic about 3 blocks away). The famous Meril restaurant by chefs Donald Link and Emeril Lagasse is just a couple of blocks south on N. Peters for upscale comfort food. Bourbon Street’s bars and clubs are only a short stroll away (try the 18th century Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop or the modern Daiquiri Liq bar for local cocktails). Throughout the Quarter there are many Cajun/Creole eateries – from casual gumbo houses to five-star dining – plus a variety of nightlife spots. For pre-show drinks, the landmark Morisque pub (115 Chartres St.) and Carousel Bar in Hotel Monteleone (1 block east) are popular. Nearby hotels include the Omni Royal Orleans (4 blocks north), Hotel Monteleone, Royal Sonesta on Bourbon, and Hyatt French Quarter, all within a 5–10 minute walk. It’s wise to plan evening transport in advance: after a late show the streetcar stops are night-limited, but rideshares and cabs queue at Canal Street (2 blocks north) and Decatur. Many performers and locals recommend exploring the Quarter’s late-night food spots after a show – mulligatawny soup, beignets at Café du Monde, or oysters at Felix’s – since nightlife in New Orleans often lasts until dawn.
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets 1104 Decatur (One Eyed Jacks) apart is its mix of history, local culture and live-music indie spirit. It is one of the few French Quarter venues dedicated to non-tourist live bands and underground acts, giving it a neighborhood-club feel. The building itself carries Quarter lore – once a vaudeville and movie house called the Toulouse Theatre where jazz and blues greats performed (www.mapquest.com ). Today that history is blended into a modern club setting. Rather than being a national chain or tourist-oriented spot, One Eyed Jacks at 1104 Decatur is run by local promoters who know the city’s music scene, so both up-and-coming New Orleans artists and special guest acts are welcome. The atmosphere feels “authentically NOLA” – walls still echo of gaudy past (a few faded Mardi Gras floats and painted ceilings can still be spotted) but the vibe is friendly and inclusive. Fans appreciate hearing original local traditions alongside rock, funk, hip-hop and experimental genres rarely heard in the Quarter. Legendary performers have occasionally dropped in for surprise gigs or jam sessions here after a night on Bourbon; in 2022, headliner Big Freedia herself brought her own flavor to the stage. The venue is also known for vibrant drag and burlesque shows (the old location on Toulouse Street was famed for Fleur-de-Tease), helping 1104 Decatur attract diverse crowds. Ultimately, it matters because it preserves the French Quarter’s musical edge: instead of becoming a restaurant or store, the space continues a legacy of entertainment. By transforming the old Margaritaville/B.B. King’s building into a homegrown rock-jazz club (www.offbeat.com ), the owners kept live music thriving downtown – making 1104 Decatur a beloved gathering spot for New Orleans’ music lovers and bands alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-accessible via a ramped entrance on Decatur and has at least one accessible restroom. There is an elevator that connects the ground floor to the balcony level, so patrons with mobility needs can reach the mezzanine seating. What to Bring: Carry a government-issued photo ID (21+ for most events since there’s a full bar, though some all-ages matinees may occur). Bring cash for tips and small purchases; the bar and merch accept cards, but having cash makes bar tabs faster. Wear comfortable, casual clothing and shoes – it can get crowded, and the floor may be sticky or damp if crowds are dancing. Security and Cameras: Standard security check at the door means small clear bags or wallets are okay, but large backpacks may be barred. Small digital cameras and smartphones are generally allowed (non-flash photography is usually fine), but professional cameras or video equipment typically require pre-approval. Smoking is prohibited inside by law (there may be a designated outdoor cigarette area). Food & Drink: Outside food/drink is not allowed. Enjoy the on-site bar and Bub’s NOLA kitchen – the Cajun-style smoked meats and Signature cocktails help stretch your night. Meals or snacks from Bub’s are a good idea before the show to save time. Timing: Doors usually open about 1 hour before the showtime listed on tickets, typically around 9–10pm on concert nights. Early arrival helps beat the line and guarantees a spot near the stage or on the balcony. Late arrivals are often accommodated, but busy events can fill up quickly. Dress Code: There is no formal dress code. You’ll fit right in with anything from band tees and jeans to Mardi Gras beads or vintage attire. However, avoid oversized bags or loose hats as security may ask you to stow them. Neighborhood Norms: Remember you’re in the French Quarter – keep the noise down and watch out for horse carriages on the streets. Public intoxication laws still apply, so be respectful of the block’s residents and businesses. Taxis and streetcars stop running around midnight, so plan a ride back to your hotel after an evening of music. Insider Tip: If a popular act is playing, try standing near the soundboard on the mezzanine – the engineers’ booth often has great mix of sound and a clear view. Also, sign up for the One Eyed Jacks mailing list or follow their social media for last-minute free guest lists or contests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is 1104 Decatur Street located?
1104 Decatur Street is in the Lower French Quarter of New Orleans, just off Bourbon Street between Conti and Orleans Streets. It’s easy to spot on Decatur Street; the address is New Orleans, LA 70116. The venue is one block north of Bourbon and a block east of Chartres Street, across from the French Market area.
What is the capacity of the venue at 1104 Decatur?
1104 Decatur St (One Eyed Jacks) holds on the order of a few hundred people. It’s a mid-size club; the old One Eyed Jacks on Toulouse was about 400-capacity (joynight.com ). The floor layout is mostly standing-room, so capacity is typically around 300–400 guests depending on event setup.
How do I buy tickets for a show at One Eyed Jacks (1104 Decatur)?
Tickets are usually sold online through the club’s official website (OneEyedJacks.net) or through authorized ticketing services. Some shows may offer tickets at the door if they aren’t sold out in advance. It’s best to buy tickets early once a show is announced, since popular nights can sell out quickly. Advance prices are often listed on the event flyer or website (e.g., many 2022 shows were in the $20–$35 range (www.offbeat.com )).
Is there an on-site box office for One Eyed Jacks?
On event nights the venue usually has a ticket window at the entrance where leftover tickets can be sold at the door. However, there isn’t a full-time box office during the day. If you have questions about your tickets, it’s best to contact the club or ticket outlet where you purchased them. Some local music venues in New Orleans operate ticket lines after 5pm on the doorsteps, but for One Eyed Jacks online sales and advance pickup are more common.
How much do tickets to shows at 1104 Decatur typically cost?
Ticket prices vary by performer, but most concerts at One Eyed Jacks fall in the $15–$40 range. Local or unsigned bands usually charge on the lower end ($10–$20), while touring headliners or special events might be $25–$40. For the reopening weekend in 2022, cover charges ranged from about $20 up to $35 (www.offbeat.com ). Check the event listing or flyer for the exact price of your show.
Is there parking available near 1104 Decatur?
Street parking in the French Quarter is very limited. There are metered spaces on Decatur, Conti, and nearby side streets (with $2–$3/hour rates, usually enforced until about midnight). A few parking garages are within walking distance. For example, the Premium Parking garage at 500 Decatur (Lot P401) just a few blocks away charges roughly $10 for the first hour and about $16 for two hours (en.parkopedia.com ). Another is at 211 Conti (Lot P405). If possible, we recommend carpooling or using rideshare. Rideshare drop-off is easy on Decatur or Conti St. Paid parking at French Quarter lots or valet is generally expensive (often $25+). Always allow extra time to find a spot if you drive.
What public transit options serve 1104 Decatur St?
Public transit can be convenient: the RTA Rampart–St. Claude streetcar (Line 47) stops at Decatur & Toulouse, about a block from the club. Several bus routes also run on nearby streets (for example, the Canal-Esplanade bus #55 stops along Decatur/Conti, and buses 8, 32, 51, or 91 serve the Quarter via Rampart or Tulane corridors). The Canal Street streetcar stops are two blocks north at Canal & Decatur, which is also a hub for many bus lines like the 90/91 to Mid-City or JFK Airport. If you’re coming from the Garden District or Uptown, take the St. Charles streetcar to Canal St. and transfer to a downtown bus. (Tip: Plan ahead with the RTA app or Google Transit – after about midnight service can be sparse.)
What is the seating/standing layout inside the venue?
1104 Decatur (One Eyed Jacks) is primarily a standing-room concert hall. The main floor in front of the stage is open for dancing and crowding the stage. However, there is a partial balcony/mezzanine on one side with bench-style seating and bar stools – those seats are first-come, first-served. The balcony provides a great panoramic view. There are no fully assigned seats except at the bar; most people either stand or lean against the railing. The stage is raised so even at the back of the floor you can see performers. Early-arrival and floor-space placement determine your view, but nearly everyone has a good sightline due to the intimate size.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, after its recent renovation 1104 Decatur is ADA-compliant. There is a flat entrance (no stairs) on street level, and an elevator connects the main floor to the mezzanine. Accessible seating can be arranged (patrons can stay at the back of the floor or use the balcony seating area). The restrooms include an accessible stall. We recommend calling ahead if you need special accommodations, but in general the venue can accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices.
What are the age restrictions at One Eyed Jacks (1104 Decatur)?
Because 1104 Decatur has a full liquor license, most concerts and nights are restricted to ages 18+ or 21+ (check the event details). Some shows (especially earlier in the evening) may be all-ages if advertised. You should expect to show a government-issued ID at the door if the event is 21+. Unaccompanied minors are generally not allowed at late-night shows. Always verify the age policy when buying tickets (it will be noted on posters or online listings).
Can I bring a camera or record the show?
Personal smartphones and small point-and-shoot cameras are usually permitted for photos or brief videos for personal use, as long as flash is off. However, professional cameras, video recorders, or any equipment with detachable lenses typically require event approval, which is rarely granted. Many bands and the venue have a no-authorized-recording policy, so check in advance. In general, casual photography is fine, but be respectful: focus on the performance and other audience members will appreciate it.
Is there a coat check or locker service?
The venue sometimes offers a coat check (especially during winter months) or provides hooks on the upper rails for jackets. However, space is limited so coat check is not guaranteed. We recommend bringing only small personal items (backpacks may be discouraged during sold-out shows) and wearing layers you can keep with you if needed. Valuables should be kept close or left at the hotel for caution.
Are outside food and drinks allowed inside?
No. Outside food and beverages (other than sealed water bottles) are not permitted. The venue has an on-site kitchen run by Bub’s NOLA offering a limited menu, plus a full bar and bottle service. You can bring small snacks like mints or medication, but generally you’ll purchase any drinks or food you want inside.
Are credit cards accepted at the venue?
Yes, the bar and ticket outlets accept major credit/debit cards. Cash is also widely accepted and often faster at the bar. There may be an ATM on site or nearby, but we advise bringing some cash anyway (for tips or cover fees) as backup.
Is smoking allowed inside 1104 Decatur?
No. Louisiana law bans smoking indoors in public venues and bars. If you do smoke, you’ll have to step outside. The venue does allow outdoor smoking by the entrance on Decatur, but please be mindful of the sidewalk and nearby pedestrians.
What happened at 1104 Decatur before it became One Eyed Jacks?
This building has a long nightlife history. From the 1930s it started as a movie theater, later became a strip or adult cinema, and then in the 1970s it finally became the Toulouse Theatre nightclub (where jazz pianist James Booker performed nightly) (www.mapquest.com ). From 1994 to 2015 it housed Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Café (neworleanscitybusiness.com ). In 2016 it was remodeled and reopened as B.B. King’s Blues Club. Then in 2022 One Eyed Jacks moved from its old Toulouse Street location into this space, bringing live-music back to 1104 Decatur (www.offbeat.com ).
Can I re-enter the venue if I leave?
Re-entry policies can vary by event. Generally, re-entry is allowed if you show your hand stamp or handprint at the door upon returning. It’s best to get clarification from the staff when you enter. If it’s a strictly standing show, multiple entries may be limited. We recommend going out only when necessary (for example, to smoke or make a quick drink purchase outside) and keeping your ticket or hand stamp.
What time do the shows at 1104 Decatur typically start, and when should I arrive?
Most concerts start around 9:00pm or later. Doors often open an hour before showtime. If your ticket says “doors 8 pm, show 9 pm”, plan to arrive around door time to avoid lines. Arriving 30–60 minutes early means you can get in first and pick a good spot. Remember that French Quarter events can start a little late, but if you have general admission, the earlier you’re inside, the closer to the stage you can stand.
What are some good places to eat or drink near One Eyed Jacks?
The French Quarter is packed with options. On Decatur Street itself you'll find Molly's at the Market (sandwiches, po’boys, and a casual bar vibe) just a few doors down. Tujague’s (Creole cuisine, open until late) and Coop’s Place (Cajun kitchen and bar) are very close. A block away on Bourbon Street are famous bars like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar (for absinthe) and Pat O’Brien’s (home of the Hurricane cocktail). Downtown classics like Café du Monde (beignets and coffee) are steps away. For fine dining, there are restaurants like Diboubouche (Creole/Asian fusion) and Galatoire’s within walking distance. Many hotels (Omni Royal Orleans, Hotel Monteleone) also have lounges worth a stop. If you’re looking for late-night food, the nearby French Market alley has tacos and other quick bites until early morning.
