The Compagnos were Italian immigrants who moved to New Orleans in 1887. They lived on the second floor of a building located on Felicity and Magazine Streets. The building was triangular-shaped due to its location on the corner of two streets.
The son, Peter, bought the building when he was 20 years old. He opened New Orleans’ first oyster bar, Compagno’s. After Peter died, his son, Nick, took over the operation of the oyster bar, naming it Nick’s Bar. The family owned the restaurant until 1979.
Over the years and several owners, the building started to deteriorate. It was purchased in February 1984 by Joseph Compagno, Peter’s grandson. He restored the building to its original condition.
Historical Marker Inscription
Historic Compagno Magazine Triangle
May 31, 1859
Location
29° 55’ 56.562” N, 90° 4’ 23.040” W
1601 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
