Known for their Cajun, Creole and American style food as well as their Mardi Gras-inspired décor, Bourbon Street has all of the makings of an interesting—and perhaps intimate—night out on the town. The walls are adorned with vibrant paintings of women outfitted in their finest masquerade ensembles, while mannequins dressed in fishnets and masks perch on a balcony over the dining room.
The food is delicious, with just the right amount of spice to hint at its New Orleans inspiration. Open Monday through Friday at 11:00 a.m., and Saturday at 4:00 p.m., Bourbon Street also has some of the most flexible hours to be found in Grinnell.
This eclectic venue also becomes a nighttime hotspot after 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, when the Voodoo Lounge opens. The Lounge can be found downstairs from the restaurant, with bright green and yellow decorations leading the way. Leather seating and granite countertops stretch the length of the underground party venue. There, customers can sit and enjoy the music as they peruse an award-winning wine list as well as a cocktail and appetizer menu.
The restaurant/lounge is owned by the Barmuda Company, which specializes in restaurants, nightclubs and lounges. The original Bourbon Street /Voodoo Lounge storefront is in Cedar Falls, IA. The company has also won numerous awards for philanthropy and compassionate workplace policies in cities across Iowa.
Both the restaurant and the lounge are upscale dining, with prices to match, so they may not fit every college student’s budget. However, the venue does provide special deals to students and faculty from Grinnell College. Weekly “Grinnell College Wednesdays” offer 20% off the entire check to anyone who can present a valid college ID. Next time you’re planning a special night out, whip out your P-card and stop by 924 Main St. for a whimsical and delicious dining experience.
