About Dew Drop Inn

The Dew Drop Inn on LaSalle Street opened in 1939 and grew into one of the most important rhythm and blues clubs in the country, hosting Ray Charles, James Brown, Little Richard, and Ike and Tina Turner through the 1950s and 60s. Owner Frank Painia was arrested in 1952 for serving an integrated audience, and the club helped launch Allen Toussaint and Earl King. After decades of decline and Katrina damage, the building was restored and reopened in March 2024 as a nightclub, restaurant and hotel.