(Photo: The former location of Betty’s Bar and Bistro and 700 Club | Infrogmation CC)
Betty’s Bar and Bistro, located at 700 Burgundy Street, closed due to business restrictions from New Orleans city officials because of COVID-19.
The owner(s) of the bar announced its closure in a social media post on Sunday following failed rent negotiations.
The business closure comes amid several others in the French Quarter due to the coronavirus restrictions instituted by Mayor LaToya Cantrell and Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards in the months following start of the pandemic on March 11.
The LGBTQ bar was the former location of 700 Club before opening as Betty’s in February.
“As everyone knows, COVID-19 and the global pandemic has substantially impacted businesses, none more so than bars and restaurants,” the post read. “After months of failed attempts to reach an agreement with our landlord, we have no choice other than to close permanently.
“Betty’s was 100% committed to giving back to our community,” the owner(s) wrote.
Prior to closing, volunteers used the bar as a space to provide meals to unemployed hospitality workers in the city.
The owner(s) encouraged residents to support friends and family, and local businesses during the pandemic.
Read Betty’s full post here.