This Central Business District haunt, Le Chat Noir, has declared the entire world a stage as long as you have got good music and even better booze. This oh-so-swank Uptown hotspot features both a live piano bar and the Cabaret room, which features a changing lineup of guest stars and revues. The bar is laid back and unassuming, perfect for those looking for a more ‘mature' night out.
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.
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.
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.
Erin Rose is a popular Irish pub located on Conti Street. It may seem a little small for a bar, but once you enter you will realize that there exists a front bar and a back bar, not to mention the kitchen which offers some casual bar food. The dimly lit wooden interiors exude a cozy and comfy charm, where one can sit back and enjoy a drink. It also features a jukebox that adds to the vintage nostalgia. Do try the Frozen Irish Coffee. Erin Rose Merchandise like hoodies and tees are also available at decent prices.
Tropical Isle is the home of the world famous Hand Grenade. The neon green specialty drink is considered the strongest beverage in New Orleans, and it tastes like it. The bar itself is nothing more than an homage to its drink. There are large stuffed Hand Grenades covering the walls and ceilings, glowing neon in the black-light. Although famous, Tropical Isle is representative of many of the “bars” you find on Bourbon Street—a place where you stop, grab a “Go-Cup” and keep walking.
This Central Business District haunt, Le Chat Noir, has declared the entire world a stage as long as you have got good music and even better booze. This oh-so-swank Uptown hotspot features both a live piano bar and the Cabaret room, which features a changing lineup of guest stars and revues. The bar is laid back and unassuming, perfect for those looking for a more ‘mature' night out.
If you're seeking quality music and a refreshing beer to cap off your day, d.b.a. is your destination of choice. This venue boasts live performances and a selection of draft beers, including Belgian options and handcrafted ales. The offerings extend beyond beer, featuring a comprehensive wine, whiskey, and brandy list that's nothing short of impressive. For those who come for the live music, the experience is equally exceptional. d.b.a. promises an evening of musical delight that pairs perfectly with their extensive drink offerings, creating an atmosphere that's bound to leave you thoroughly satisfied.
Since its 1979 opening, Le Bon Temps has been welcoming laid-back New Orleanians to enjoy quiet afternoons at the bar and late nights drinking and dancing. A fully stocked bar and cozy, ultra-casual atmosphere encourage patrons to stop by during daylight hours for better than average bar eats including sandwiches, quesadillas, and burgers. And come back after dark for a full night of drinking and dancing. The Soul Rebels Brass Band, Joe Krown Organ Combo, and a variety of other brass, rock, and jam bands pack the Uptown neighborhood bar nearly every night. Stop by on Friday for the free oysters.