Parish Public House Now Open

On July 24, 2014 at 8:00 PM, downtown Albany welcomed Parish Public House – A Louisiana Eatery & Drinkery – to the restaurant and entertainment scene. The venture is a re-branding and expansion of the live music club formerly known as Red Square, located at 388 Broadway.

Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Parish Public House Founder Francis Verret was driven north out of New Orleans by the winds of Hurricane Katrina, eventually settling in New York’s Capital Region. In 2006, he became the proprietor of Red Square. As the years progressed, so did a transformation of the business turning Verret’s vision of a Cajun restaurant and bar serving up tried and true Cajun specialties, Louisiana’s favorite cocktails, and continuing the fine music tradition of both Red Square Albany and his Cajun heritage, into reality.

Parish Public House will be open for lunch and dinner service from

• 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM weekdays
• 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Saturdays
• Late bar hours and live music most Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights
• Event menu available during shows.

The menu, based primarily on recipes from Verret’s time growing up in the Cajun heartland, will feature a wide range of dishes, from simple Louisiana favorites such as Po Boys to the rich flavors of Etouffees, Jambalaya, and, of course, Gumbo.

We’re going to build our own little Louisiana parish right here in downtown Albany,” says Verret, adding that the new place will feature “the food, community, spirit, and, well – spirits – that embody the Cajun culture that is celebrated around the world.”

Albany Mayor Kathy M. Sheehan said, “Having a ‘bit of Louisiana’ right here in Albany is exciting! As we look to expand options for our visitors and residents, a multitude of culinary options adds flavor and diversity to our culturally rich city, and enhances our growing and expanding downtown. We look forward to the opening, and to enjoying some great gumbo or jambalaya along with wonderful music at the Parish House in the near future.