Absinthe Houses
The New Orleans Storyville Museums offers you a comprehensive guide to the best places in New Orleans to experience absinthe. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of absinthe, this curated list helps you navigate the city's rich absinthe culture, offering a mix of bars, restaurants, and hotel lounges where you can savor this iconic green spirit in the heart of New Orleans.
The Sazerac Bar
The Sazerac Bar, located within the historic Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans, is an iconic destination that exudes timeless elegance and Southern charm. Known for its art deco décor, the bar features rich wood paneling, luxurious leather seating, and striking murals by artist Paul Ninas, which add to its sophisticated ambiance.
The Old Absinthe House
Jean Lafitte's Old Absinthe House, nestled in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, is a legendary bar steeped in over 200 years of history. Renowned for its signature absinthe-inspired cocktails, this iconic establishment blends historic charm with a lively atmosphere.
Tatlo
Tatlo, located within the historic Jean Lafitte's Old Absinthe House, offers a unique and elevated cocktail experience in an intimate, swamp witch themed, speakeasy-style bar, known for its inventive drinks and Filipino-inspired cuisine. Tatlo is part speakeasy, part Filipino restaurant, part witch bar, and part absinthe den.
Pirate's Alley Café
Tony Seville's Pirate's Alley Café and Olde Absinthe House is a charming and storied venue tucked away in the heart of the French Quarter. This historic bar is celebrated for its absinthe offerings and its cozy, vintage ambiance, complete with exposed brick and a relaxed courtyard. Located near the St. Louis Cathedral, it invites visitors to step back in time while enjoying classic New Orleans drinks, including absinthe prepared with the traditional fountain method. Perfect for history buffs and cocktail enthusiasts alike, it captures the essence of the city’s spirited past.
The Sazerac House
The Sazerac House in New Orleans is a vibrant museum and distillery celebrating the city’s rich cocktail heritage. Located on the edge of the French Quarter, it offers an immersive experience where visitors can explore the history of the iconic Sazerac cocktail and other New Orleans classics. Interactive exhibits, guided tastings, and a working distillery showcasing the art of whiskey production make The Sazerac House a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
The Apothecary
The "Vampire" Apothecary Café in New Orleans is a cozy and eclectic spot blending a vintage apothecary aesthetic with modern café charm. Known for its artisanal coffee, creative mocktails, and light bites, it offers a unique space for relaxation and conversation. Located in a vibrant neighborhood, The Apothecary Café invites guests to enjoy its warm atmosphere, curated décor, and a menu that nods to the city’s love of innovation and tradition.
Loa Bar
Loa Bar, nestled within the chic International House Hotel in New Orleans, is a sophisticated cocktail lounge known for its enchanting atmosphere and creative drinks. Inspired by the city's spiritual heritage, Loa (named after spirits in Haitian Vodou) features candlelit elegance and an intimate setting. Renowned mixologists craft innovative, seasonal cocktails that showcase local ingredients and artistry, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a refined and memorable New Orleans bar experience.
Muriel's Jackson Square
Muriel's Restaurant, located in the heart of Jackson Square in New Orleans, is a celebrated dining destination that combines Creole cuisine with historic charm. Set in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, the restaurant offers a warm, elegant atmosphere with stunning views of the square. Guests can indulge in a menu of classic and contemporary Creole dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list. Known for its ghostly lore and enchanting Séance Lounge, Muriel's provides a uniquely memorable experience that captures the spirit of New Orleans.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
The historic Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans is a timeless landmark known for its unique rotating bar and classic charm. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this iconic bar offers an unforgettable experience, where patrons can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails while seated at a carousel-themed bar that gently spins. With its elegant, old-world atmosphere and rich history, the Carousel Bar has been a favorite gathering spot for locals, visitors, and literary legends for decades.
Mahogany Jazz Hall
The Mahogany Jazz Hall in New Orleans is a vibrant venue that celebrates the city's rich jazz heritage with a blend of live music, intimate ambiance, and classic décor. Known for its cozy, upscale atmosphere, the club offers an exceptional experience for jazz enthusiasts, featuring talented local musicians playing traditional and contemporary jazz. With its stylish mahogany interior and dedication to showcasing the best of New Orleans' music scene, The Mahogany Jazz Hall provides a perfect setting for a night of soulful tunes and unforgettable memories.
Bourbon "O" Bar
The Bourbon "O" Bar at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel in New Orleans offers a chic and lively setting where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. Located on Bourbon Street, the bar features stylish décor with a blend of classic and contemporary elements, including a stage where nightly live jazz is performed. Known for its signature drinks and welcoming ambiance, the Bourbon "O" Bar provides a perfect spot to unwind, socialize, and experience the essence of New Orleans' spirited nightlife.
Hermes Bar at Antoine's
Hermes Bar at Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans is a historic and elegant bar that offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Located within the iconic Antoine's, one of the oldest family-run restaurants in the city, Hermes Bar serves classic cocktails and signature drinks that reflect New Orleans' rich culinary and cocktail heritage. With its charming décor and intimate setting, it provides the perfect space for enjoying a drink before or after a delicious meal, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the city’s vibrant culture.
Chandelier Bar
at the Four Seasons Hotel
The Chandelier Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel in New Orleans is a luxurious and stylish destination known for its striking, glittering chandelier centerpiece. Offering a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, the bar serves a curated selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits. With its elegant design, plush seating, and exceptional service, The Chandelier Bar provides an ideal setting for both intimate gatherings and special occasions, offering a taste of New Orleans’ upscale hospitality in the heart of the city.
Hot Tin Roof Bar
at the Hotel Pontchartrain
The Hot Tin Roof Bar at the Hotel Pontchartrain in New Orleans is a trendy rooftop bar offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. With its sleek, modern design and laid-back atmosphere, the bar is the perfect spot to enjoy craft cocktails and small bites while watching the sunset or taking in the vibrant nightlife. Known for its stylish vibe and inviting setting, Hot Tin Roof Bar combines the best of New Orleans’ outdoor spaces with a touch of sophistication, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Southern Food & Beverage Museum
The Southern Food and Beverage Museum in New Orleans celebrates the rich culinary traditions and beverage culture of the American South. Through engaging exhibits, the museum highlights the region's diverse food history, from Creole and Cajun cuisine to classic Southern cocktails. With a collection of artifacts, interactive displays, and rotating exhibits, the museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of the South’s food culture, including its influence on the broader American culinary scene. It's a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking to explore the flavors and stories that shape the South.
Potions Lounge
Potions Lounge on Bourbon Street in New Orleans is a trendy and intimate cocktail bar known for its creative vampire-themed drinks and Victorian-inspired décor. Located above Fritzel's European Jazz Club, Potions offers a unique twist on traditional New Orleans nightlife by creating a Gothic atmosphere that is only accessible by whispering a secret password to the doorman. Guests who gain entry can enjoy the chic interior or step out onto the large gallery overlooking the vibrant Bourbon Street scene below.
May Baily's Place
May Baily's Place at the Dauphine Orleans Hotel is a historic, cozy bar that transports guests back to 19th-century New Orleans. Known for its charming, intimate atmosphere, the bar features classic cocktails and a carefully curated selection of drinks in a setting steeped in the city’s rich history. Once a renowned bordello, May Baily's Place now offers an inviting, relaxed space where visitors can enjoy craft cocktails, live music, and the unique spirit of the French Quarter, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic New Orleans experience.
Napoleon House
The Napoleon House in New Orleans is a historic and charming bar and restaurant located in the heart of the French Quarter. Known for its classic New Orleans cocktails, including the famous Pimm’s Cup, the establishment has been serving locals and visitors since the early 1800s. Housed in a beautiful, centuries-old building that once offered refuge to Napoleon Bonaparte, the bar boasts a relaxed, old-world atmosphere with a spacious courtyard. With its rich history, delicious drinks, and authentic ambiance, The Napoleon House remains a beloved spot for those seeking a true taste of New Orleans.
Arnaud's
French 75 Bar
The French 75 Bar at Arnaud's Restaurant in New Orleans is an elegant and iconic destination, offering a refined atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. Named after the classic French 75 cocktail, the bar is renowned for its vintage charm, featuring a timeless Art Deco interior and attentive service. With an extensive selection of premium spirits and an array of signature drinks, it’s a perfect spot for enjoying sophisticated libations in the heart of the French Quarter. Whether you're looking to unwind or start a night out, The French 75 Bar provides a quintessential New Orleans experience.
The New Orleans
Vampire Café
The New Orleans Vampire Café offers a unique and thrilling experience in the heart of the French Quarter. With its dark, atmospheric décor inspired by vampire lore and gothic themes, this café blends New Orleans' rich history with a touch of the supernatural. Guests can enjoy a menu featuring delicious food and cocktails with a mysterious twist, alongside specialty drinks like the "Vampire's Kiss." Perfect for those seeking a one-of-a-kind dining experience, The New Orleans Vampire Café combines a playful, eerie ambiance with the city's legendary hospitality.
The 21st Amendment Bar
at La Louisiane
The 21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane in the Hotel Mazarin is a stylish and intimate cocktail bar located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. Known for its creative cocktails and classic charm, the bar offers a sophisticated setting with a nod to the Prohibition era. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted drinks, including unique spins on classic favorites, in a cozy yet elegant space. With its inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, the 21st Amendment Bar provides a perfect spot to relax and indulge in New Orleans' vibrant cocktail culture.