New Lou Lou in Nulu — say that five times fast.

September 23, 2022 was the last day of business for Decca, an original NuLu district restaurant. After 10 years, the upscale, Mediterranean-inspired eatery, complete with a basement bar and picturesque patio, called it quits at 812 E. Market St. Now, almost exactly one month later, another Louisville restaurant is swooping in to take over the high foot traffic space.

From left to right — Chef Cristain Garay, owner Jared Fox Matthews, and general manager Miles North | Image provided by Simply PR

Jared Fox Matthews, owner of St. Matthews’ Lou Lou Food & Drink, announced last Friday that he will be opening a second restaurant, Lou Lou on Market, that will carry on its New Orleans flair in both the space and in a new menu created by Chef Cristian Garay — see Lou Lou Food & Drink’s current menu to get an idea.

Lou Lou on Market will also have a separate basement bar called The Stave, which will focus on, you guessed it, bourbon. The new eatery + bar is expected to be open this December or early January 2023. ⁠

A rendering of a Lou Lou on Market mural on the side of the building at 812 E. Market St. | Image provided by Simply PR

Here's what else to look forward to:⁠

The Lagniappe Room, a private venue that can be booked for dinners and special events
Live jazz music
NOLA-inspired cocktails — including classics like the Sazerac, the Hurricane + a “voodoo punch”

“I want to give Louisville the whole New Orleans experience while incorporating the unique flavor of Lou Lou which combines Mediterranean and classic Cajun. Live music, creole flavors, classic New Orleans cocktails with a unique twist, hidden rooms, and an overall fun, but elevated dining experience. NuLu is the perfect place to make this vision come alive,” said Jared.

Bonus: Explore NuLu's dining scene before Lou Lou on Market opens to get a taste of the neighborhood. Don't skip trying the Tok-Sel lima beans from Mayan Cafe.