Top Rated Nightlife in New Orleans

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar is (as its name implies) located in a former blacksmith's shop and safe house for smugglers during the 1800s. It boasts of having survived the fire that burned down the French Quarter in the late 1800s and being the oldest building to house a bar in the United States. In the back of the bar, a musician plays a grand piano and croons through drunken sing-a-longs like Piano Man and You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling. The bar has reasonably priced drinks compared to many of its Bourbon Street counterparts and is the best bet on Bourbon Street if your feet are tired from walking and you have had your fill of raucous mayhem.

John Austin tickles the ivories at this piano bar from Wednesday through Saturday, but the real attraction is the Carousel Bar & Lounge itself at Hotel Monteleone. It's a carousel and really does revolve - all the time. The music goes until late and the cocktails served are out of this world like the "Truffletini" which is a mix of Bailey's Irish Cream with liqueurs. The ambiance has a slight feel of a Moulin Rouge setting, with bold lighting and motifs.

Loud and boisterous are two good words to describe this less than discreet club. If you have never experienced a leather and Levi's bar, you may want to see this one. Chosen as one of the top 10 leather bars in the country, Rawhide has developed quite the reputation. Should you be in town during Mardi Gras, this is the place to go for a unique drag show.

The Spotted Cat is an intimate and slightly formal bar, catering to the discerning crowd who appreciate live jazz with a local flair. This venue is a haven for purists, devoid of flashy performances and gimmicks. The focus here is on authentic musical experiences. With its intimate and welcoming ambiance, The Spotted Cat offers a diverse lineup of live performances, ranging from jazz and blues to swing and traditional New Orleans tunes. The club's cozy interior, adorned with vibrant artwork and dim lighting, creates an authentic and lively setting. The Spotted Cat's commitment to showcasing local talent and fostering a vibrant musical community makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable musical experience.

No compilation of New Orleans restaurants would be complete without mentioning Commander's Palace. In 1996, it was crowned the "Best Restaurant in the United States," and this renowned establishment continues to live up to its well-deserved reputation with exceptional cuisine and an unforgettable dining experience. One notable aspect is the attentive and efficient wait staff, who strike a perfect balance between attentiveness and formality. Housed in a modified 1880s Victorian house, Commander's Palace offers a range of dining rooms, from large to intimate. The restaurant is particularly acclaimed for its signature turtle soup, while other standout dishes include the Mississippi Roasted Quail Stuffed with Creole Crawfish Sausage, and for dessert, the delightful Creole Bread Pudding Souffle. Complementing the exquisite menu, an excellent wine list is available, complete with recommendations for each entrée.

Cure has an interesting menu that features carefully crafted cocktails made only from premium ingredients, as well as a selection of the best in bottled brews. This elegant bar, housed in a carefully restored fire station with towering ceilings and picturesque arches, features a cozy courtyard for mild evenings. Hungry patrons can satisfy their cravings with any one or more of their lip-smacking small plate offerings.