Davenport Lounge

Room to settle in

Davenport Lounge feels closer to a generous Southern sitting room than a conventional bar. At The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, sofas share the space with tables and the bar itself, giving groups several ways to settle in. The scale is part of its appeal.

With a moderate crowd, people gather around the sofas and talk, while others take their places at the bar. There is activity without the whole room feeling compressed. The effect is comfortable and conversational, with enough space for a group to feel a little apart from its surroundings.

That makes Davenport an appealing choice when catching up matters as much as the drink. The sense of separation depends on how full the lounge is; this is still a shared room, not a promise of privacy. At a quieter moment, though, it is easy to see the appeal of taking a sofa and letting the conversation run.

Coffee with a bitter edge

The espresso martini is good, with a strong coffee flavor that leans toward bitterness. It is less sweet than some versions, allowing the coffee to make the more decisive impression.

That balance gives the order a clear audience. If you want an espresso martini that tastes more of coffee than dessert, it is a worthwhile choice. The drink suits the lounge’s slower, conversational side: something to enjoy while settling in, without needing a spectacle of its own.

Choose the right rhythm

Live music is another reason to consider Davenport. The hotel lists performances by Jeremy Davenport and his ensemble, so the performance schedule is a useful part of planning your visit.

Choose a performance if music is the draw. If the priority is space to talk with your own group, look for a time without a scheduled set. The lounge’s quieter appeal stands on its own: Southern manor character, generous seating and a good coffee cocktail. Give it the right occasion, and there is little need to hurry.