Frommer's Review
Ernie K-Doe may be gone, but this shrine to his glorious self and funky lounges everywhere lives on, thanks to wife, Antoinette, the keeper of the K-Doe legend and the bar's owner. Named after his biggest hit, a rousing 1961 number-one pop/R&B novelty, this is a true neighborhood dive bar, weird and wonderful, distinguished by the K-Doe memorabilia that lines the walls. The bar got swamped after Katrina, but the photos were saved, and Antoinette (a total kick) has, with the help of intrepid volunteers, made a renovated return. A true New Orleans character, she makes perhaps the best gumbo we have ever had, and if you are lucky, she will be serving it when you come by. K-Doe himself, in the form of a startlingly lifelike mannequin, which has become a celebrity of sorts around town, still holds court. You may want to be careful in the neighborhood, but once you're there, be sure to play one of K-Doe's songs on the jukebox and drink a toast to the man who billed himself as "Emperor of the Universe." And don't forget to ask Antoinette to tell you stories; boy, has she got them. Call first -- hours are erratic (and often early).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
