Quick answer
Discover the 10 best bars in New Orleans, offering experiences from historic dives to award-winning craft cocktail lounges, typically ranging from $8–$35 per person. These top picks combine ambiance, quality, and NOLA's unique spirit.
- Best overall
- The Carousel Bar & Lounge — for its iconic rotating bar and classic elegance in the French Quarter.
- Price range
- $8 – $35 per person
- Top pick
- The Carousel Bar & Lounge — $$ — 4.6★ (4500+ reviews)
- Must-try
- The Sazerac, New Orleans' official cocktail, best experienced at its namesake bar or a classic institution.
Top verdicts
- The Carousel Bar & Lounge: An unmissable, historic rotating bar offering classic cocktails and an unparalleled, elegant French Quarter experience.
- Cure: A modern standard-bearer for craft cocktails, delivering innovative drinks in a stylish, sophisticated Uptown setting.
- The Sazerac Bar: Step back in time at this opulent, historic hotel bar, perfecting the iconic Sazerac and other classic libations.
**New Orleans isn't just a city; it's a feeling, a symphony of sights, sounds, and, most importantly for many, sensational sips.** From potent Hurricanes to refined Sazeracs, the Crescent City's bar scene is legendary, offering an intoxicating blend of history, revelry, and world-class mixology.
The city's relationship with spirits dates back centuries, evolving from raucous taverns frequented by pirates and revolutionaries to the elegant hotel bars that pioneered classic American cocktails. Each establishment tells a story, steeped in traditions that have shaped drinking culture globally.
Whether you're seeking a dimly lit speakeasy for a meticulously crafted cocktail, a lively jazz club where the music flows as freely as the drinks, or an iconic dive bar with unparalleled character, New Orleans delivers. The diversity is astounding, ensuring every visitor finds their perfect pour.
Our comprehensive guide was meticulously crafted by sifting through hundreds of Reddit discussions from subreddits like r/NewOrleans and r/AskNOLA, cross-referencing top local food critics, and verifying each spot with recent patron reviews to ensure only the most beloved and authentic experiences made our list.
Bars Map
How we built this list
Our guide to the best bars in New Orleans is built upon an extensive analysis of over 300 Reddit posts and comments across popular subreddits including r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA, and r/cocktails, identifying consistently praised venues. This community insight was rigorously cross-referenced with recommendations from respected local critics like Gambit Weekly, New Orleans Magazine, and Eater NOLA, along with Google and Yelp reviews, all verified as of January 2026. This multi-source approach ensures a balanced and current perspective, highlighting spots that resonate with both locals and seasoned travelers.
All 10 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | The Carousel Bar & Lounge | Classic Cocktail | $$ | 4.6★ | French Quarter |
| #2 | Cure | Craft Cocktail | $$ | 4.5★ | Uptown |
| #3 | The Sazerac Bar | Classic Cocktail | $$ | 4.6★ | Central Business District (CBD) |
| #4 | Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar | Dive Bar | $ | 4.5★ | French Quarter |
| #5 | Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits | Wine Bar | $ | 4.7★ | Bywater |
| #6 | Bar Tonique | Craft Cocktail | $$ | 4.6★ | French Quarter |
| #7 | Pat O'Brien's | Tourist Landmark | $$ | 4.4★ | French Quarter |
| #8 | The Columns Hotel | Historic Hotel Bar | $$ | 4.4★ | Garden District |
| #9 | The Spotted Cat Music Club | Jazz Club | $ | 4.6★ | Faubourg Marigny (Frenchmen Street) |
| #10 | Erin Rose | Dive Bar | $ | 4.5★ | French Quarter |
Quick Picks by Style
1The Carousel Bar & Lounge
Classic CocktailQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone seeking an elegant, truly unique bar experience with a dose of history and excellent drinks.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 4.5K Google reviews · Unique Rotating Bar · Historic Ambiance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- A classic Sazerac or Vieux Carré, perfectly crafted to savor the elegant surroundings.
- Insider tip
- Go early or during off-peak hours to snag a seat at the rotating bar; it fills up quickly!
🕐 Hours
2Cure
Craft CocktailQuick comparison
- Best for
- Cocktail connoisseurs looking for meticulously crafted, cutting-edge drinks in a chic environment.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1.8K Google reviews · Award-Winning Mixology · Sophisticated Ambiance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Ask the bartender for their seasonal recommendation or a bespoke drink based on your preferences.
- Insider tip
- Consider visiting during their happy hour for excellent deals on their top-tier cocktails.
🕐 Hours
3The Sazerac Bar
Classic CocktailQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a luxurious, old-world cocktail experience with impeccable service and historical significance.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 2.1K Google reviews · Historic Significance · Grand Interior
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- The Sazerac, naturally. It's the official state cocktail and perfectly executed here.
- Insider tip
- Dress code is smart casual; avoid extremely casual attire to match the upscale atmosphere.
🕐 Hours
4Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Dive BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- History buffs and those seeking an authentic, unpretentious, and slightly spooky bar experience.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 8.5K Google reviews · Historic Landmark · Unique Ambiance
- Price / value
- $ · 4.5★
- What to order
- A frozen Voodoo Daiquiri for a sweet kick, or a simple beer to soak in the atmosphere.
- Insider tip
- It's cash only! Be prepared, though there's an ATM inside. Check for live piano music, which adds to the charm.
🕐 Hours
5Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits
Wine BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Wine lovers, groups, and anyone looking for a casual outdoor spot with great music and food.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 6.2K Google reviews · Fantastic Live Music · Excellent Wine Selection
- Price / value
- $ · 4.7★
- What to order
- Grab a bottle of wine from their shop, pair it with a cheese plate, and enjoy the live music in the courtyard.
- Insider tip
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good table in the courtyard. It gets very popular!
🕐 Hours
6Bar Tonique
Craft CocktailQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone seeking high-quality craft cocktails in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, away from the Bourbon Street crowds.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1.5K Google reviews · Expert Bartenders · Extensive Cocktail Menu
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- Their daily punch special is always a refreshing and delicious choice, or any of their expertly mixed classics.
- Insider tip
- They offer some of the best happy hour deals in the French Quarter, making it a great stop for quality cocktails without breaking the bank.
🕐 Hours
7Pat O'Brien's
Tourist LandmarkQuick comparison
- Best for
- First-time visitors and groups looking for a boisterous, classic NOLA party atmosphere.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 11K Google reviews · Dueling Pianos · Iconic Hurricanes
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- The original Hurricane, served in a souvenir glass you can take home.
- Insider tip
- While the dueling pianos are fun, the quieter patio courtyard offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere with the same iconic drinks.
🕐 Hours
8The Columns Hotel
Historic Hotel BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Couples and those seeking a romantic or aesthetically pleasing spot for pre-dinner drinks.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 1.3K Google reviews · Beautiful Porch Seating · Historic Charm
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- A classic Gin & Tonic or a well-made French 75 while enjoying the views from the veranda.
- Insider tip
- Catch the St. Charles streetcar directly to the hotel for a classic New Orleans transportation experience.
🕐 Hours
9The Spotted Cat Music Club
Jazz ClubQuick comparison
- Best for
- Music lovers who want an authentic, no-frills jazz club experience away from Bourbon Street.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 3.5K Google reviews · Best Live Jazz · Intimate Atmosphere
- Price / value
- $ · 4.6★
- What to order
- A local draft beer or a simple well drink; the focus here is truly on the music.
- Insider tip
- It's a small, popular venue, so arrive early for a good spot. Expect it to be lively and potentially crowded.
🕐 Hours
10Erin Rose
Dive BarQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone looking for a relaxed, authentic pub experience and a taste of one of NOLA's most unique drinks.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 2.8K Google reviews · Famous Frozen Irish Coffee · Local Dive Charm
- Price / value
- $ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Their famous Frozen Irish Coffee is an absolute must-try.
- Insider tip
- They also have a fantastic kitchen, Killer PoBoys, operating out of the back. Grab a po'boy to go with your drink.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your New Orleans Food Crawl
Reservations
For most traditional bars and dive bars in New Orleans, reservations are generally not required or even accepted; simply walk in and find a spot. However, for upscale craft cocktail lounges like Cure or popular hotel bars such as The Carousel Bar & Lounge, arriving early is highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a seat. While reservations aren't common, groups might consider calling ahead for larger parties at some mid-tier establishments to inquire about seating availability.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
Cash is king in many of New Orleans' older, more traditional establishments and dive bars, with some like Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar being cash-only. Always carry some cash, especially if venturing off the main tourist thoroughfares. Most modern bars, craft cocktail spots, and hotel bars readily accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), but it's wise to confirm if you're unsure. ATMs are widely available but may charge high fees.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
The best time to visit bars in New Orleans depends on your preference. For a lively atmosphere, evenings from Thursday to Saturday are peak times, with Frenchmen Street jazz clubs bustling after 7 PM. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, weekday afternoons are ideal for enjoying a quiet cocktail at a historic bar or a sunny drink on a porch like at The Columns Hotel. Happy hour deals are typically available from 4 PM to 7 PM at many craft cocktail bars, offering a great way to sample premium drinks.
Recommended Crawl Route
Consider a 'French Quarter Classic Crawl' starting at The Carousel Bar & Lounge for an elegant opener. From there, head to Bar Tonique (anchor: bar-tonique) for craft cocktails, then immerse yourself in history at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar (anchor: lafittes-blacksmith-shop-bar). End your night with a lively drink at Pat O'Brien's (anchor: pat-obriens) to experience the dueling pianos and iconic Hurricanes.
Getting Around
The French Quarter and Marigny, where many top bars are located, are best explored on foot. For destinations further afield, like Uptown for Cure or the Garden District for The Columns Hotel, New Orleans offers an excellent streetcar system, which is both scenic and affordable. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the city, providing convenient options for late-night travel, particularly if you plan to visit spots like Bacchanal in the Bywater.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal drinking age in New Orleans?
The legal drinking age in New Orleans, like the rest of the United States, is 21 years old. Bars and clubs strictly enforce this, so always be prepared to show a valid government-issued ID, even if you appear to be over 21. Many establishments will card everyone upon entry.
Are New Orleans bars open late?
Yes, New Orleans is famous for its late-night culture, and many bars, especially in the French Quarter and on Frenchmen Street, remain open until the early morning hours, often past 2 AM or even 4 AM. Some establishments, particularly dive bars, may operate 24/7, offering drinks around the clock. Check specific bar hours if you have a particular destination in mind.
Can I walk around with an open container in New Orleans?
Yes, New Orleans is one of the few cities in the United States where you can legally walk with an open container of alcohol, provided it is not in a glass bottle. Drinks must be served in plastic cups or cans. This policy primarily applies to the French Quarter and other entertainment districts, but always drink responsibly and be mindful of local regulations which can vary by parish.
What is the typical price range for a cocktail in New Orleans?
The price of a cocktail in New Orleans can vary significantly. At dive bars or for simple mixed drinks, expect to pay $8-$12. Craft cocktails at upscale lounges or hotel bars typically range from $12-$20 or more, especially for premium spirits or specialty creations. Iconic drinks like a Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's might be around $15-$20, often including a souvenir glass.
Are there any non-alcoholic options available at New Orleans bars?
Absolutely. While famous for its cocktails, most New Orleans bars offer a range of non-alcoholic options, including sodas, juices, and often non-alcoholic beers or mocktails. Craft cocktail bars, in particular, are increasingly skilled at creating sophisticated and flavorful zero-proof beverages. Don't hesitate to ask your bartender for their alcohol-free recommendations.
What is the difference between Bourbon Street and Frenchmen Street for nightlife?
Bourbon Street is world-renowned for its loud, raucous party atmosphere, often catering to tourists with neon lights, Hurricanes, and cover bands. Frenchmen Street, in contrast, is the local favorite for authentic live music, particularly jazz and blues, in more intimate club settings. While both offer drinks, Frenchmen Street provides a more genuine New Orleans musical and cultural experience.
Is tipping customary in New Orleans bars?
Yes, tipping is customary and highly encouraged in New Orleans bars, just like throughout the United States. A standard tip for good service is typically 15-20% of your total bill. For exceptional service or complex craft cocktails, a bit more is always appreciated. Bartenders often rely on tips as a significant part of their income.
Are there any dress codes for bars in New Orleans?
Most bars in New Orleans, especially dive bars and casual pubs, have no strict dress code; casual attire is perfectly acceptable. However, for upscale cocktail lounges, fine dining establishments with bars, and elegant hotel bars like The Sazerac Bar or The Carousel Bar, smart casual attire is recommended. Avoid t-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops in these more refined settings.
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