New Orleans is widely recognized as the birthplace of jazz, with its rich cultural blend of African, French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. Jazz emerged in the early 20th century, around the 1900s, as a fusion of blues, ragtime, brass band music, and African rhythms. The city's unique social and musical environment, particularly in neighborhoods like the Treme, fostered the development of jazz. Iconic musicians such as Louis Armstrong, King Oliver, and Jelly Roll Morton helped shape the genre. The improvisational nature of jazz and its emphasis on individual expression became central to the music, with New Orleans serving as the heartbeat of this revolutionary sound. Over time, jazz spread across the world, but its roots in New Orleans remain a vital part of the city's cultural identity.

​New Orleans is renowned for its live jazz scene, with numerous iconic venues offering unforgettable musical experiences. From the legendary Preservation Hall, which showcases traditional jazz in an intimate setting, to the vibrant Frenchmen Street clubs like The Spotted Cat and d.b.a., where local and touring acts bring the city's rhythms to life, there is no shortage of places to enjoy jazz. Venues like The Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta and Snug Harbor provide sophisticated settings for premium performances, while Tipitina's and the Maple Leaf Bar offer energetic environments to experience jazz, blues, and funk. Whether you're looking for an intimate evening or a lively dance floor, New Orleans' live jazz venues cater to all tastes and promise a deep dive into the heart and soul of the city’s musical heritage.

The Sazerac, hailed as the official cocktail of New Orleans, is a timeless blend of rich flavors and history. This iconic drink rye whiskey, sugar, Peychaud's bitters, and a splash of absinthe, creating a unique taste that reflects the vibrant spirit of the Crescent City. Served in a chilled glass with a twist of lemon, the Sazerac not only tantalizes the palate but also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans. The potent spirit absinthe, served as a key component in the Sazerac, became a symbol of the bohemian and rebellious atmosphere of Storyville. Although absinthe was banned in the U.S. in the early 20th century, it remains an integral part of the Sazerac’s legacy, linking the drink to the vibrant, free-spirited culture of New Orleans' past. The cocktail’s enduring popularity today reflects the lasting influence of Storyville and its role in shaping the city’s unique drinking culture.