BEST BARS IN NEW ORLEANS:
YOUR GUIDE TO THE TOP DRINKING SPOTS
New Orleans boasts a legendary bar scene, deeply intertwined with its rich history and unique culture. From the classic cocktail lounges of the French Quarter to the sophisticated hotel bars in the Central Business District and the eclectic local spots in Mid-City, the city offers an unparalleled array of drinking experiences. Each neighborhood contributes its own flavor, making New Orleans a true paradise for bar enthusiasts.
Top Picks in New Orleans
Brennan’s The Roost Cocktail Bar
Brennan’s combines local tradition with festivity, particularly during their daily champagne sabering in the courtyard at 4:30. The bar is a blend of classic elegance and fun, offering a selection of both time-honored and innovative cocktails, plus you can order all of Brennan’s favorite food menu items at the bar including Bananas Foster and Steak Diane.
Bananas Foster
Observatory Eleven at The Westin
Located high above the city in the Wyndham Hotel, Observatory Eleven offers breathtaking views and cocktails that are as spectacular as the panorama. Enjoy a refined atmosphere with a menu of elegantly presented light bites that perfectly complement the drinks. They also have live music regularly which adds to the bougie cocktail experience.
Signature cocktails
Jewel of the South
Jewel of the South is a cozy James Beard award-winning restaurant and cocktail bar that brings a historical touch to your drink. It’s famous for its Brandy Crusta, a cocktail that tells the tale of New Orleans’ rich cocktail history, paired with locally inspired gourmet dishes. The bar at Jewel of the South was also named one of North America’s 50 Best Bars!
Brandy Crusta
All New Orleans Bars
Historic Hermes Bar at Antoine’s
Step into New Orleans local history at the Hermes Bar, located within the legendary Antoine’s. This bar offers a charming mix of old-world ambiance and classic crafted cocktails, making it a delightful bougie spot for those who appreciate a side of history with their drinks.
The Peacock Room at Hotel Fontenot
The Peacock Room inside Hotel Fontenot immerses you in a realm of bougie glamour. This bar offers a mix of classic and inventive cocktails accompanied by small bites like truffle fries and oysters. It’s the plush interiors and sophisticated crowd that make it a top pick for a luxury outing.
French 75 Bar at Arnaud’s
French 75 Bar at Arnaud’s is timeless, elegant, and oh-so-bougie. Inside the iconic Arnaud’s Restaurant, the French 75 Bar is a luxurious throwback to New Orleans’ golden age of cocktails. With dark wood paneling, white-jacketed bartenders, and vintage glassware, the atmosphere is as refined as the drinks. The bar was a James Beard Award winner for “Outstanding Bar Program.”
The Press Room at Eliza Jane Hotel
The Press Room is known for its chic design and creative cocktail menu. It’s a sophisticated spot to unwind, offering both innovative drinks and classic favorites in a stylish setting. You can also have your cocktail in the Library or one of the comfortable seating areas near the bar.
Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt
Renowned for its signature cocktail, the Sazerac, this bar exudes a classic, refined and bougie atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to sip on a piece of New Orleans’ history in an iconic setting.
Chandelier Bar at Four Seasons
The Chandelier Bar at Four Seasons Hotel is an awe-inspiring setting with its stunning central chandelier. Ideal for a luxe night out, it serves up sophisticated craft cocktails alongside gourmet small plates in an environment that exudes grandeur.
Compère Lapin
At Compère Lapin, creativity is the key ingredient in both the bougie cocktails and the eclectic cuisine. This spot blends Caribbean, French, and Italian influences with New Orleans vibes, offering a unique and upscale bar experience.
The Cocktail Bar at Vessel
Housed in an old and reportedly haunted church, Vessel offers an extraordinary setting with stunning architecture. The cocktails and food are as divine as the surroundings, making it a prime destination for a night of sophisticated indulgence.
Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone
A historic and iconic spot, the Carousel Bar is a literal revolving bar that has been a favorite for both locals and visitors for years. The playful yet elegant atmosphere makes it an unforgettable stop on your bougie cocktail journey. This one is a classic and must be on the list! We had our first Ramos Gin Fizz here and it is still a favorite! They still hand shake it to the perfect consistency.
Muriel’s
Located in the heart of the French Quarter, The Bar at Muriel’s provides a cozy yet elegant setting where you can enjoy well-crafted cocktails and the ghostly lore that haunts its historic walls. Muriel’s honors the “haunted” residents by leaving a table set to honor the previous owner upstairs.
Vampire’s Apothecary
Step into a world of Gothic charm at The Bar at Vampire’s Apothecary. With its dark, mysterious decor and themed cocktails, this bar offers an immersive experience that blends the mystique of New Orleans with the allure of the nocturnal.
Bar Districts & Neighborhoods
French Quarter
The historic heart of New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife, jazz clubs, and iconic bars.
Best for: Historic bars, live music, classic cocktails
Central Business District
A more modern area with upscale hotels and sophisticated cocktail bars.
Best for: Upscale cocktails, hotel bars
Mid-City
A diverse neighborhood with a mix of local hangouts and unique establishments.
Best for: Unique bar experiences
Suggested Bar Crawl Route
A curated walking order through New Orleans's top bars — start early, end late.
Brennan’s The Roost Cocktail Bar
French Quarter
Mon-Sun 2pm-5pm (Happy Hour)
Observatory Eleven at The Westin
French Quarter
Mon-Sun 5pm-7pm (Happy Hour)
Jewel of the South
French Quarter
Varies
Historic Hermes Bar at Antoine’s
French Quarter
Mon-Sun 4pm-7pm (Happy Hour)
The Peacock Room at Hotel Fontenot
Central Business District
Mon-Sun 4pm-6pm (Happy Hour)
French 75 Bar at Arnaud’s
French Quarter
Mon-Sun 5pm-7pm (Happy Hour)
Pro tip: Start around 7–8 PM at stop #1 and allow 45–60 minutes per venue. Use rideshare between stops that are more than 10 minutes apart.
Local Tips for Bar Hopping in New Orleans
- 1New Orleans is a walking city, especially in the French Quarter. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on bar hopping.
- 2Many bars offer happy hour specials, which can be a great way to experience upscale establishments at a more affordable price.
- 3Consider taking a cocktail history tour to learn about the origins of famous New Orleans drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
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