University students and Baton Rouge residents will soon have a new bar to frequent on Thursday nights.
In Northgate, at the former site of Louie’s Cafe on 209 West State St., business partners Shane Courrege and Luis Macedo are teaming up to create a new bar and eatery, The State Bar.
Shane Courrege is part-owner of Duvic’s and Spanish Moon, and Luis Macedo is the head chef at Pinetta’s European Restaurant.
Courrege decided on the location when he was contacted by Louie’s owner Jimmy Wetherford in March 2014. Courrege’s first job was in the area, and said he was interested in returning.
To make way for the redesigned layout of the bar, the entire inside of the old Louie’s building has been gutted. Most of the work on the building is being done by Courrege and Macedo themselves, adding a personal touch.
There are no targeted customers, but the owners hope to serve the large Northgate community.
In a previous interview with The Daily Reveille, Courrege said, “There will be no live entertainment or a cover charge, but there will be booths, privacy and more intimate lighting where customers can come for a date, or a group of friends can get a drink and some tasty food.”
The State Bar plans to stand apart from other bars by serving gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, salads and a variety of entrees, as well as barrel age cocktails. Macedo will be the chef and has selected the menu that will be served, relying on his 17 years of cooking experience. He said The State Bar also will stand out because of its attention to customer service.
Courrege said he plans for The State Bar to be open within a month.

Gallery • 4 Photos

Zoe Geauthreaux

The building formerly occupied by Reginelli's Pizzeria is being turned into Mahony's Po-boy.