Revel Cafe And - New Orleans

I am from the Dallas area. I first discovered Revel with some friends in early January 2020. We wandered from dinner and were looking for a place to have a drink. Walked up to the doors as Chris and Laura were heading out. We had five of us, and we wanted to spend money, so they were gracious enough to invite us in. Four hours later, every single one of us vowed to return at any of our next opportunity. Chris educated us and told excellent stories while Laura assisted or hosted, depending on the moment. The cocktails were exquisite. Many times they would have us tell them what we wanted (sour, sweet, spicy, chocolate, boozy, type of liquor) and they would create something specifically for that person.The next day was our last day in NOLA, so we returned to have lunch and drink some more. This was a little different since we didn’t have the place to ourselves, but everyone at the bar was adept at social interaction, so it ended up feeling like a bunch of regulars hanging out. Another A+ experience. And the food was delicious.Then the COVID-19 pandemic happened. I was certain it would kill Revel. I was so certain, that I was heartbroken about it.I am happy to say, Chris and Laura came through that (practically) unscathed and are still going strong today!Last night, June 30, 2023, I returned. Welp. Amazing again. I brought a different buddy there this time, and we had an excellent experience. He ordered the burger, which was perfectly prepared and I ordered the steak frites, which was also perfectly prepared. The house-made chimichurri was on point. And of course the cocktails were to die for.Chris is a master bartender in every sense of the role. Laura executes his vision flawlessly.I want this restaurant bar to thrive. It’s hard being a small business. It’s harder being a small 2- or 3-person operation. It’s hard to find the time to focus on marketing and promotions to get the word out when the toilets need cleaning and the dishes need washing after they close. So I am begging you, if you’re reading this, please please go experience this place. Sit at the bar. Interact and ask them to wow you with their cocktail expertise. Tell your friends. Write positive reviews. Bring your friends. I implore you. It is obvious that Chris and Laura care deeply about creating an experience for their patrons that is second-to-none. I’d hate to see that not be rewarded with the prosperity they so deserve.I’ll be back. Hope I have to make a reservation.

Chris and Laura run an incredible bar. Chris knows more about cocktails than anyone I've ever spoken to and the drinks are out of this world.Food: 5/5

I have watched all of Chris McMillan 's online videos and really enjoy his 'teach and entertain ' style of delivering cocktails. I was lucky to catch Revel on a slow night and enjoyed perfect bar food (deviled eggs, burger and fries) along with 4 perfectly balanced cocktails complete with vignettes by Chris and Laura. I was 'schooled ' in the best sense of the word and have a new appreciation for Green Chartreuse via Chris ' perfect execution of the 'The End of the Road. ' This place is highly recommended for anyone who wants to know what a good cocktail is supposed to taste like. Thank You Chris and Laura!

My girlfriend and I had heard many great things about this bar and it did not dissapoint. The owners and staff are nice and incredibly knowledgeable about their craft. We were lucky enough to be guinea pigs for a drink they were testing that instantly became one of our favorites. 11/10 would recommendFood: 5/5

Chris is a national treasure and barman historian supreme! Go at off peak times and Chris or his wife Laura will whip you up a dreamy cocktail the likes of which one rarely sees. Its the opposite of a quick serve grab and go but if you want a relaxed evening of extraordinary drinks, a delicious albeit small menu (for now) and a night filled with fascinating stories and facts this is the place for you. Go Enjoy, And Repeat !