The chaotic scenes of bachelor and bachelorette parties on Bourbon Street are the most common characterization attributed to the New Orleans drinking lifestyle. However, this depiction falls far short of what the city that essentially created the art of cocktails has to offer. Instead, viewing drinking in New Orleans as an art requiring effort and patience to appreciate fully is best.
So, if you’re visiting New Orleans and wish to appreciate the area’s drinking lifestyle fully, you should adhere to some unwritten guidelines. First, start your drinking journey early but make sure to pace yourself. This is because NOLA is famous for its brunch cocktails. Second, don’t hesitate to stop frequently for food, particularly local specialties like fried shrimp po’boys, ideal for soaking up alcohol. Although beer is enjoyable, cocktails reign supreme in the city. Thus, it is essential to try at least one Sazerac while there.
Third, if a menu features a Ramos Gin Fizz or classic/frozen daiquiri, order it. Although local craft brews from Urban South and Parish Brewing Co. are worth a try, remember that they are not the main draw. Finally, make it a point to visit a range of bars, from late-night jazz clubs to charming dives to trendy hotspots and everything in between. By following this list, you’ll never go wrong.
Above all, don’t forget to indulge in carrying a drink from bar to bar. After all, you are in a place where drinking on the streets is permitted. Also, don’t dare to miss visiting any of the following spots.
1. Bacchanal
Bacchanal is undoubtedly one of the top bars in New Orleans that visitors should not miss. It is a backyard wine store, bar & restaurant, and music club all in one. The place is nestled in the bohemian Bywater neighborhood and a perfect place to experience New Orleans fun.
Bacchanal offers a unique experience of good music, delicious food, and fine wine. The cozy ambiance, live jazz performances, and the romantic outdoor patio make Bacchanal an excellent spot for a night out with loved ones or a particular date. The bar boasts an extensive selection of over 600 bottles of wine from various parts of the world, handpicked by their in-house sommelier.
Guests can pair their wine with an array of small plates, charcuterie, and cheese boards, curated by the talented chefs in the kitchen. It is a hidden gem that attracts locals and tourists alike, providing an unparalleled experience of wine, food, and music in the heart of New Orleans.
2. The Spotted Cat Music Club
The Spotted Cat Music Club is currently one of the popular bars in New Orleans that wandering guests like you should not dare to miss. Located in the vibrant Frenchmen Street, this intimate jazz club has a storied history of showcasing some of the best local musicians in the city. The venue exudes an old-world charm with its exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and vintage decor.
The Spotted Cat hosts live jazz music every night, with performances ranging from traditional jazz to blues, swing, and more. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of cocktails, beer, and wine while grooving to the rhythms of the music. The bar has a lively atmosphere perfect for those looking to experience the true spirit of New Orleans nightlife. The Spotted Cat Music Club is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic jazz experience in the city.
3. Vaughan’s Lounge
This bar is among the top bars in New Orleans frequented by many guests. It is situated in the city’s historic Bywater neighborhood. The Vaughan’s Lounge is regarded as a legendary dive bar and has been a fixture in the city’s music scene for over 50 years. Vaughan’s is known for its famous Thursday night performances by Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers, which draw crowds of locals and tourists alike.
Also, the bar features live music on weekends and has a jukebox filled with classic New Orleans blues and jazz. The friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make it an excellent spot to relax and enjoy a few drinks with friends. Vaughan’s Lounge is an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the authentic, unpretentious side of New Orleans.
4. 12 Mile Limit
12 Mile Limit is one of the top bars in New Orleans that many visitors always find time to visit. This cozy neighborhood bar in Mid-City is known for its innovative cocktails and relaxed vibe. It offers a unique selection of house-made syrups, bitters, and infusions used to craft delicious and creative drinks.
Also, the bar has a rotating selection of local craft beers and a small menu of elevated bar food, including vegetarian and vegan options. 12 Mile Limit has a lively atmosphere, with a pool table, arcade games, and occasional live music performances.
The bar’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement makes it a local favorite. 12 Mile Limit is the perfect spot for a laid-back, friendly bar experience in New Orleans.
5. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
The list of top bars in New Orleans will never be complete without Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. Located in the historic French Quarter, this bar is steeped in history and legend. The building, dating back to the early 18th century, is rumored to have been a meeting place for the infamous pirate Jean Lafitte.
The bar has a dark, candlelit interior, and the piano playing in the corner enhances the ambiance. Lafitte’s serves up classic New Orleans cocktails, including their famous frozen daiquiris, and has a good selection of beer and wine.
Also, the bar has a small courtyard, a great spot to enjoy a drink and relax. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the unique history and atmosphere of New Orleans.
6. Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge
Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge is one of the top bars in New Orleans that many tourists want to visit. This iconic dive bar is in the uptown neighborhood and is known for its quirky Christmas decorations that adorn the bar year-round.
The bar has a dimly lit, cozy interior, with a jukebox filled with classic rock and blues. Snake and Jake’s serves up cheap drinks, including their infamous “Reindeer Juice” shot, and has a small selection of beer and wine.
The bar’s laid-back vibe and friendly regulars make it a local favorite. Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge is a must-visit for those looking to experience New Orleans nightlife’s offbeat and unconventional side.
7. Maple Leaf Bar
The Maple Leaf Bar is among the most popular and top bars in New Orleans. It is in the uptown neighborhood and is an iconic music venue that has been a staple of the New Orleans music scene since 1974.
The bar hosts live music seven nights a week, focusing on funk, jazz, and blues. It has an intimate atmosphere, with a long bar and a small stage that puts the performers right in front of the audience.
The bar also serves up classic New Orleans cocktails and has a good selection of beer and wine. Maple Leaf Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best live music in New Orleans.
8. The Columns
This stately mansion-turned-hotel is one of the top bars in New Orleans that you should pay a visit to. This historic bar in the beautiful Garden District exudes old-world charm with its grand Victorian architecture and antique furnishings.
The bar has an extensive cocktail menu featuring classic and creative drinks and a good selection of beer and wine. The Columns also has a beautiful outdoor patio, perfect for sipping drinks and enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
The bar hosts live music on certain nights, ranging from jazz to blues to rock. The Columns is a must-visit for anyone looking for a sophisticated and elegant bar experience in New Orleans.
9. Le Bons Temps Roule
The Le Bons Temps Roule is also a member of the list of top bars in New Orleans that many visitors want to visit. Located in the uptown area, this classic neighborhood bar has been a favorite among locals since 1953. The bar is known for its live music performances, featuring a mix of funk, blues, and jazz.
Le Bons Temps Roule also serves up classic New Orleans cocktails, including their signature frozen Irish Coffee, and has a good selection of beer and wine. The bar’s laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and lively crowd make it a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic New Orleans bar experience.
10. Avenue Pub
Avenue Pub is a must-visit and among the top bars in New Orleans for anyone looking for a top-notch drinking experience in the city. Located in the middle of the Garden District, this bar is known for its impressive selection of craft beers, with over 40 rotating taps and more than 300 bottled beers worldwide.
The atmosphere at Avenue Pub is cozy and relaxing, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying their drinks and conversation. The bar’s knowledgeable staff are always happy to offer recommendations and provide insight into the latest beer trends. Avenue Pub is worth checking out whether you’re a beer connoisseur or looking for a great spot to unwind with friends.
11. Crown & Anchor English Pub
Crown & Anchor English Pub is a beloved and one of the top bars in New Orleans that transports patrons across the pond to the UK with its authentic British atmosphere. Located in the historic French Quarter, this cozy bar is a favorite among residents and visitors, offering a wide selection of draft and bottled beers, cocktails, and hearty pub fare.
The friendly staff and warm ambiance make Crown & Anchor a perfect spot to catch up with friends or watch a game. With regular events such as trivia nights and live music, there’s always something happening at Crown & Anchor English Pub. If you’re looking for a taste of England in the heart of New Orleans, this bar is not to be missed.
12. Pal’s Lounge
Pal’s Lounge is one of the beloved neighborhood top bars in New Orleans’ Bywater area. It is known for its laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere. The bar boasts an impressive selection of cocktails and beers, focusing on local and regional brews. Its colorful decor and friendly bartenders make it a popular spot for residents and tourists to relax and enjoy a drink.
Pal’s Lounge is also a popular venue for live music, with local musicians and DJs taking the stage regularly. With its unpretentious charm and lively atmosphere, Pal’s Lounge is a must-visit bar for anyone looking for an authentic New Orleans experience.
13. Anna’s
Anna’s is among the many chic and top bars in New Orleans’ bustling Warehouse District. With its sleek design, creative cocktails, and lively atmosphere, Anna’s has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists. The bar’s impressive drink menu features a mix of classic and modern cocktails and a carefully curated wine and beer list.
The experienced bartenders are always happy to offer recommendations and create custom drinks based on individual tastes. The vibe at Anna’s is upscale and sophisticated, making it an excellent spot for a night out with friends or a date. Anna’s is worth checking out if you’re looking for stylish and sophisticated bars in New Orleans.
14. Jewel of the South
Jewel of the South is one of the charming, elegant top bars in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. The bar is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, which adds to its sophisticated and timeless atmosphere. The drink menu at Jewel of the South features a mix of classic and modern cocktails, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
This popular member of the top bars in New Orleans also offers a curated selection of wines, beers, and spirits. The attentive and experienced personnel create a warm and welcoming ambiance, making the place an excellent spot for a romantic night or special occasion. If you’re looking for a refined and upscale bar experience in New Orleans, Jewel of the South is a must-visit.
15. The Will & The Way
The Will & The Way is a hidden gem and one of the top bars in New Orleans’ Uptown neighborhood. Tucked away behind an unassuming exterior, this intimate space offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere focusing on craft cocktails. The bar’s knowledgeable and friendly staff are passionate about their craft and always happy to create custom drinks based on individual tastes.
The Will & The Way also features a selection of local beers and a small but impressive wine list. With its unpretentious charm and excellent drinks, The Will & The Way is a top choice for an individual looking for a unique and unforgettable experience while hanging out in some of the top bars in New Orleans.
16. Erin Rose
Erin Rose is a beloved dive bar that lies in the heart of the French Quarter in the city of New Orleans. It is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff that made it became one of the top bars in New Orleans. Also, it has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Like most of the top bars in New Orleans, Erin Rose offers a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and frozen drinks, with its signature Frozen Irish Coffee being a must-try. The bar also serves up delicious sandwiches and other pub grub, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with a drink. With its casual vibe and lively crowd, Erin Rose is definitely among the top bars in New Orleans that should not be missed.
17. Carousel Bar
Carousel Bar is iconic and among the top bars in New Orleans, located in the historic Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter. The bar’s centerpiece is a beautiful carousel that slowly revolves as patrons enjoy their drinks. The bar’s drink menu features classic cocktails and a selection of wines and beers.
The ambiance at Carousel Bar is elegant and refined, similar to that of the other top bars in New Orleans. Thus, it is an excellent spot for a special occasion or a romantic night out. With its unique carousel feature and rich history, Carousel Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a classic New Orleans bar experience.
18. Bar Tonique
Bar Tonique is a famous craft cocktail and is among the top bars in New Orleans’ French Quarter. With a focus on using fresh, local ingredients and innovative techniques, the bar’s mixologists create some of the city’s most creative and delicious cocktails. Bar Tonique also offers a carefully curated selection of beers and wines.
The vibe at the bar is laid-back and unpretentious, making it an excellent place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends. If you’re a fan of creative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere, Bar Tonique is worth checking out for those planning to visit the top bars in New Orleans.
19. Elysian Bar
The Elysian Bar is one of the chic, sophisticated, and top bars in New Orleans’ historic Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans. Housed in a beautifully renovated former church, the bar’s ambiance is stunning and inviting. The drink menu features a mix of classic and modern cocktails and an impressive wine list.
Like the other top bars in New Orleans, the Elysian Bar serves delicious small plates and entrees, making it an excellent spot for a full meal or a nightcap. The knowledgeable and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere, making the Elysian Bar a must-visit for anyone looking for an elegant and refined bar experience in New Orleans.
The Bottom Line
New Orleans has a rich history and culture, and its bar scene is no exception. From classic dive bars to upscale cocktail lounges, there are a lot of excellent places to enjoy a drink in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, exploring the 19 top bars in New Orleans is a must-do experience. Each bar on this list offers a unique and memorable atmosphere with its specialties and charms. So, sit tight, grab a drink, and enjoy the lively and welcoming spirit of New Orleans at some of the city’s best bars.
