Sip, savor and socialize: Hot new nightlife spots

The Coast gets even hotter after sunset with a wave of trendy new destinations that are redefining the local nightlife scene. With fresh concepts, chic ambiance and creative drink menus, these venues offer something for every vibe.

Ready for a night out? Make sure to put these spots on your list:

HEN HOUSE OF BAY ST LOUIS

After visiting several wine and cocktail bars across the country, Tasha Holliday often found herself asking, “Why don’t we have anything like this in Bay St Louis?” Alongside her husband, Bradley, Holliday decided to turn their dreams into a reality and open the spot she envisioned in the heart of the historic Depot District.

Since opening last April, Hen House of Bay St Louis has become a thriving local hangout. The Hollidays aspired to create a wine and cocktail bar with a speakeasy-like atmosphere reminiscent of the late 1920s that also had a warm, casual vibe.

“Our goal was to create a place that is both elevated, yet relaxed — perfect for a casual date, enjoying a day out with friends or relishing a girl’s day with a chilled bottle of rosé,” Holliday says. “Hen House offers an ambiance of warmth and sophistication, creating the ideal setting to unwind and connect.”

Live music is offered most nights, featuring local musicians in the venue’s new, lush patio area. The Hen House’s extensive wine list is comprised of both familiar wines and those they want you to try. Besides wine, guests can choose from a list of curated cocktails — all with bird-themed names and unique garnishes and glassware. Beer lovers can pick from among eight rotating beers on tap, highlighting local favorites.

While the drinks take center stage, the food menu consists of light bites appealing to a variety of tastes, with the charcuterie board being the most popular

“Bringing the Hen House to life has been a labor of love from start to finish,” Holliday says. “Our hope is that Hen House serves as a charming spot specializing in crafting unforgettable moments that capture the essence of casual elegance and the joy of sharing wine, cocktails and good food with friends and loved ones.”

If you go:
Hen House of Bay St Louis
122 Blaize Ave, Bay St Louis
Open Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3-9 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 2-10 p.m.; private party bookings available Sundays-Tuesdays

MAGNOLIA ROOM

An experience at Magnolia Room begins with an air of mystery and intrigue, as guests must knock twice and provide a password for entry that changes weekly.

Once inside, visitors are greeted with sumptuous décor and a sophisticated atmosphere — which make this modern-day speakeasy feel like it was plucked from the Prohibition era. Skilled bartenders stand ready to serve beautiful (sometimes smoking) craft cocktails, one of which is themed around the weekly password.

“We opened in November 2024, and we’ve been a perfect fit for not only our local neighbors, but for guests from coast to coast,” says Ben Kaufman, Magnolia Room owner and managing partner.

Kaufman adds that the hotspot, nestled in the heart of Gulfport, also boasts extensive spirit and wine lists. While the drinks are a strong draw, an equally enticing food menu is comprised of shareable small plates, including-over-the-top grilled cheeses and delectable desserts.

“The idea was to create a venue like nothing else on the Coast, and I think we did it,” Kaufman says. “It’s perfect for that special occasion or party and available for rental.”

With boat access, outdoor space and plans for spring and summer outdoor entertainment, he adds that Magnolia Room will offer a little something for everyone.

If you go:
Magnolia Room
1302 Magnolia Street, Gulfport (Handsboro Pointe)
(228) 701-9420
Open Wednesdays and Thursdays, 4 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 4 p.m.-midnight