November 18, 2024
New Orleans boasts a rich cocktail culture with numerous iconic establishments that guarantee exceptional drinking experiences as you celebrate the season. Many New Orleans hotels are truly one-of-a-kind spaces with bars that cater to adults seeking conversation and a well-crafted beverage to celebrate the season. We recommend visiting some of our top choices.
The Polo Club at Windsor Court
thewindsorcourt.com
300 Gravier St.
For classic cocktails, elevated pub fare, and live local jazz nightly, The Polo Club is a haven for both locals and visitors. Reminiscent of a private English club, it is the ideal atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap. Their offerings include one of the largest Cognac collections in the city. The club is adjacent to The Grill Room on the second floor of the Windsor Court. Perfect for cozy gatherings and festive celebrations, ZuZu's Petals has a touch of nostalgia in every sip, inspired by the timeless classic It’s a Wonderful Life. This cocktail features a rich pomegranate syrup, adding a sweet-tart essence that blends seamlessly with three dashes of aromatic Angostura bitters. Finished with a bubbly pour of prosecco, it offers a refreshing effervescence. Delicately garnished with rose petals, this cocktail is a fragrant tribute to cherished moments.
Camden Town is a bold blend that transports you to the lively spirit of the season. This cocktail begins with two shots of Maker’s Mark Bourbon, delivering warm caramel and vanilla notes. It’s complemented by Allspice Dram for a touch of winter spice. A hint of demerara syrup brings a rich, molasses-like sweetness, balanced by freshly squeezed lemon juice for a subtle brightness. Two dashes of orange bitters add a citrusy depth, while a lemon twist provides a fragrant, zesty finish.
Cozy up with Snowed In; this wintry delight is perfect for those cold nights. It starts with Noel Rum, offering a warm, festive flavor, then spiced syrup adds a rich blend of holiday spices, while creamy oat milk creates a smooth and velvety texture. Garnished with a dried orange slice, adding a subtle citrus aroma, and a cinnamon stick for a fragrant finish, this cocktail wraps you in the comforting warmth of the season.
The Davenport Lounge in the Ritz Carlton
Ritzcarlton.com
921 Canal St.
Enjoy cocktails and light fare in this elegant third-floor lounge and dance to the sounds of Jeremy Davenport and his band on Wednesday and Thursday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. to midnight. Jeremy Davenport is a vital part of the New Orleans music scene. With his original lyrics and music, he infuses his unique style with a modern edge while reminiscent of a time when jazz was at its peak of popularity. He’s a born entertainer with excellent vocal and trumpet-playing skills.
’Tis the season to celebrate! Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV Champagne is available by the glass or bottle. This champagne has a light touch of toast on the aroma that follows through to a ripe flavor. It’s a soft while dry wine, full of zesty white fruits and just a hint of maturity. Sample the Amalfi Coast Spritz! This cocktail combines Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV Champagne, Italicus Bergamot and Fever Tree Club Soda. Another delectable option is Follow the Sun, a mixture of Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV Champagne, Bacardi Ocho Rum, Campari and pineapple. You may also consider celebrating with their Afternoon Tea offered on Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Patrick’s Bar Vin in the Mazarin Hotel
Patricksbarvin.com
730 Bienville St.
Named a Top Ten wine bar in the United States, Patrick’s Bar Vin is the quintessential romantic wine bar managed by New Orleans own bon vivant, Patrick Van Hoorebeek. Step into the private courtyard and you’ll discover an elegant gathering place for locals and wine enthusiasts. Rich hues and personal touches by Patrick reflect the warm and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy Happy Hour, Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m., offering beer and cocktail specials and Patrick’s “Best Kept Secret” is always a wise choice. Patrick is the King of the annual Mardi Gras parade “Krewe of Cork.” On Friday, Feb. 21 at 3 p.m., watch the wine-themed krewe begin on Royal Street between St. Peter and Toulouse Street as they celebrate food, wine and fun with a spirited walking parade.
Needless to say, Patrick’s Bar Vin is well stocked with a wide selection of vino. Exceptional cocktails are also available. Enjoy a sip of pleasure with The Empress Mardi Gras 75, a blend of Empress Gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup topped off with sparkling wine and a dash of food-grade purple glitter, garnished with a lemon twist. The Bitter Spiced Winter Hatten has a shot of Wild Turkey Spiced, Amaro Nonino, Fernet Branca, simple syrup, cocoa bitters and Peychaud’s Bitters, garnished with a Luxardo cherry. Another favorite is Roxy’s Rusty Nail with two shots of Lagavulin Scotch, a half-shot each of Drambuie and Benedictine, garnished with an orange twist.
Bar R’evolution in The Royal Sonesta
Revolutionnola.com
777 Bienville St.
The Royal Sonesta boasts several dining and entertainment venues. At Bar R’evolution, locals love the Ginter-Wonderland which combines Fords London Dry Gin, house-made tonic syrup and soda water, with cranberries, juniper berries and a sprig of rosemary. The Blonde Redhead, inspired by a Negroni, has Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Botanist Gin and Cap Corse Mattei Blanc, with house-made ruby red grapefruit juice. Traffic Was Crazy! will help you unwind with house-made Verdita with pineapple, cilantro, mint, jalapeño, lemon and tequila with a Tajin rim. The season would not be complete without Better Over Time Eggnog! It has aged eggnog with egg yolk, cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, bourbon and dark rum.
Happy hour is available daily from 4 to 6 p.m. with amazing snack-sized bites. After happy hour, visit The Jazz Playhouse offering live jazz five nights a week in the lobby of The Royal Sonesta.
The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel
Therooseveltneworleans.com
130 Roosevelt Way
More than just a bar, this restored landmark has kept the cocktails and conversations flowing for decades. The Roosevelt is among the best decorated hotels in town for the holidays! Take in the famous Paul Ninas murals at the African walnut bar as you sip a Sazerac, the official cocktail of New Orleans. The elegant old-world vibe will take you back to the grandeur of old New Orleans, a time when Huey P. Long would stroll in, order a Ramos Gin Fizz, and spend a few hours talking to his constituents. Restored to reflect the spirit of the original establishment, locals and visitors alike enjoy hand-crafted cocktails and free-flowing conversations here.
You will feel like you are in your mother’s kitchen again when you taste the Christmas Cookie. It’s on your holiday diet with heavy cream, vanilla vodka, and brown sugar syrup with sprinkles on top; you can almost smell the cookies baking. You’re sure to get in a holiday mood with the Candy Cane with White Creme de Cacao, Rumplemintz, Heavy Cream and a Raspberry Swirl. This cocktail is as pretty as it is delicious! If you’re in for the Superbowl, try the Royal Blues with Crown Royal Deluxe, Allspice Dram St. Elizabeth’s, Blueberries muddled or puréed, agave syrup, Calamansi and Tobacco Leather Bitters. For Mardi Gras, sip a Classic Champagne Cocktail with champagne, bitters and a sugar cube.
The Elysian Bar at Hotel Peter and Paul
Theelysianbar.com
2317 Burgundy St.
In the Marigny neighborhood, The Elysian Bar has an award-winning bar program with small plates of Mediterranean and European dishes with a nod to New Orleans. Situated in a former Catholic church, The Elysian Bar is a café, bar, and restaurant in a jewel box setting. It features a great wine list, storied cocktails and delicious nibbles. The bar is open from 3 p.m. daily with a late-night happy hour from 10 p.m. to midnight.
Try The Adding Machine with Jamaican rum, Aperol and yellow chartreuse, garnished with a fresh lime. Or maybe Blessed & Happy Afterlife suits your fancy with Pisco, gin, sweetened with Velvet Falernum, passion fruit, fresh lemon and tart Burlesque Bitters. Fortunate Isles combines white rum, overproof rum, coffee, banana, orgeat, lime and pineapple. All of these cocktails are heavenly!
The Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone
Hotelmonteleone.com
214 Royal St.
The celebrated Carousel Bar opened inside the historic Hotel Monteleone in 1949, becoming New Orleans’ first and only rotating bar. Its carousel theme and unique design is a treat you won’t find anywhere else, offering guests a pleasant, subtle rotation around a world-class cocktail bar every 15 minutes. Over the years, it has hosted a dazzling array of celebrities and entertainers, from the flamboyant Liberace to the soulful Dr. John, and from piano man Billy Joel to the legendary clarinetist, Pete Fountain.
Originally designed to evoke the spirit of a bustling carnival, The Carousel Bar has evolved over time. Today, it features a captivating ambiance with 186 twinkling lights adorning the canopy. The 25 hand-painted carousel seats, each depicting a whimsical circus animal, are a charming testament to the craftsmanship of Disney artists.
The Golden Cadillac is a sumptuous blend of Galliano, White Creme de Cacao, and Half and Half, garnished with cacao nibs. The Peppermint White Russian combines Wheatly Vodka, Kahlua, Peppermint Schnapps, Half and Half and is garnished with a candy cane… it’s sure to get you in the spirit! The Cranberry Aperol Spritz has Aperol, cranberry juice, fresh orange juice and Prosecco to make you feel merry and bright!
Peychaud’s at The Celestine
Thecelestinenola.com
727 Toulouse St.
This gorgeous new boutique hotel feels like your very own upscale French Quarter apartment. The building was once the residence of Antoine Amédée Peychaud, a Creole apothecary from the colony of Saint-Domingue, now Haiti. He prescribed and dispensed his patented herbal bitters, Peychaud’s Bitters, which is a foundational element in many classic New Orleans cocktails including the Sazerac. Guests can indulge in a cocktail at the bar in the beautiful courtyard.
Of course, the Sazerac is a New Orleans classic with deep historical roots. Made with Sazerac Rye, a dash of Demerara syrup, and 21 drops of the iconic Peychaud's Bitters, this cocktail is a celebration of heritage. Finished with an Herbsaint rinse for that unmistakable anise aroma, it offers a perfectly balanced taste of sweet, bitter and spice. Boukman Punch is inspired by the early leader in the Haitian revolution; it brings together Ak Zanj Dark Rum and Armagnac, adding layers of rich flavor. Fresh lime juice and cinnamon syrup give it a bold, tangy warmth. It’s a punch that tells a story with every sip, drawing on the vibrant history of the early leader of the Haitian Revolution, Dutty Boukman. Peychaud's Fizz is a refreshing, modern take on a spritz; it combines infused Peychaud’s Aperitivo with zesty lemon and lime juice. A touch of simple syrup and fresh cucumber rounds out the flavors, making it a light and invigorating cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.
The new year stands before us like a chapter in a book waiting to be written. Let’s celebrate the season … Cheers!
The Polo Club at Windsor Court
thewindsorcourt.com
300 Gravier St.
For classic cocktails, elevated pub fare, and live local jazz nightly, The Polo Club is a haven for both locals and visitors. Reminiscent of a private English club, it is the ideal atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap. Their offerings include one of the largest Cognac collections in the city. The club is adjacent to The Grill Room on the second floor of the Windsor Court. Perfect for cozy gatherings and festive celebrations, ZuZu's Petals has a touch of nostalgia in every sip, inspired by the timeless classic It’s a Wonderful Life. This cocktail features a rich pomegranate syrup, adding a sweet-tart essence that blends seamlessly with three dashes of aromatic Angostura bitters. Finished with a bubbly pour of prosecco, it offers a refreshing effervescence. Delicately garnished with rose petals, this cocktail is a fragrant tribute to cherished moments.
Camden Town is a bold blend that transports you to the lively spirit of the season. This cocktail begins with two shots of Maker’s Mark Bourbon, delivering warm caramel and vanilla notes. It’s complemented by Allspice Dram for a touch of winter spice. A hint of demerara syrup brings a rich, molasses-like sweetness, balanced by freshly squeezed lemon juice for a subtle brightness. Two dashes of orange bitters add a citrusy depth, while a lemon twist provides a fragrant, zesty finish.
Cozy up with Snowed In; this wintry delight is perfect for those cold nights. It starts with Noel Rum, offering a warm, festive flavor, then spiced syrup adds a rich blend of holiday spices, while creamy oat milk creates a smooth and velvety texture. Garnished with a dried orange slice, adding a subtle citrus aroma, and a cinnamon stick for a fragrant finish, this cocktail wraps you in the comforting warmth of the season.
The Davenport Lounge in the Ritz Carlton
Ritzcarlton.com
921 Canal St.
Enjoy cocktails and light fare in this elegant third-floor lounge and dance to the sounds of Jeremy Davenport and his band on Wednesday and Thursday from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. to midnight. Jeremy Davenport is a vital part of the New Orleans music scene. With his original lyrics and music, he infuses his unique style with a modern edge while reminiscent of a time when jazz was at its peak of popularity. He’s a born entertainer with excellent vocal and trumpet-playing skills.
’Tis the season to celebrate! Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV Champagne is available by the glass or bottle. This champagne has a light touch of toast on the aroma that follows through to a ripe flavor. It’s a soft while dry wine, full of zesty white fruits and just a hint of maturity. Sample the Amalfi Coast Spritz! This cocktail combines Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV Champagne, Italicus Bergamot and Fever Tree Club Soda. Another delectable option is Follow the Sun, a mixture of Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut NV Champagne, Bacardi Ocho Rum, Campari and pineapple. You may also consider celebrating with their Afternoon Tea offered on Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Patrick’s Bar Vin in the Mazarin Hotel
Patricksbarvin.com
730 Bienville St.
Named a Top Ten wine bar in the United States, Patrick’s Bar Vin is the quintessential romantic wine bar managed by New Orleans own bon vivant, Patrick Van Hoorebeek. Step into the private courtyard and you’ll discover an elegant gathering place for locals and wine enthusiasts. Rich hues and personal touches by Patrick reflect the warm and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy Happy Hour, Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m., offering beer and cocktail specials and Patrick’s “Best Kept Secret” is always a wise choice. Patrick is the King of the annual Mardi Gras parade “Krewe of Cork.” On Friday, Feb. 21 at 3 p.m., watch the wine-themed krewe begin on Royal Street between St. Peter and Toulouse Street as they celebrate food, wine and fun with a spirited walking parade.
Needless to say, Patrick’s Bar Vin is well stocked with a wide selection of vino. Exceptional cocktails are also available. Enjoy a sip of pleasure with The Empress Mardi Gras 75, a blend of Empress Gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup topped off with sparkling wine and a dash of food-grade purple glitter, garnished with a lemon twist. The Bitter Spiced Winter Hatten has a shot of Wild Turkey Spiced, Amaro Nonino, Fernet Branca, simple syrup, cocoa bitters and Peychaud’s Bitters, garnished with a Luxardo cherry. Another favorite is Roxy’s Rusty Nail with two shots of Lagavulin Scotch, a half-shot each of Drambuie and Benedictine, garnished with an orange twist.
Bar R’evolution in The Royal Sonesta
Revolutionnola.com
777 Bienville St.
The Royal Sonesta boasts several dining and entertainment venues. At Bar R’evolution, locals love the Ginter-Wonderland which combines Fords London Dry Gin, house-made tonic syrup and soda water, with cranberries, juniper berries and a sprig of rosemary. The Blonde Redhead, inspired by a Negroni, has Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Botanist Gin and Cap Corse Mattei Blanc, with house-made ruby red grapefruit juice. Traffic Was Crazy! will help you unwind with house-made Verdita with pineapple, cilantro, mint, jalapeño, lemon and tequila with a Tajin rim. The season would not be complete without Better Over Time Eggnog! It has aged eggnog with egg yolk, cream, milk, sugar, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, bourbon and dark rum.
Happy hour is available daily from 4 to 6 p.m. with amazing snack-sized bites. After happy hour, visit The Jazz Playhouse offering live jazz five nights a week in the lobby of The Royal Sonesta.
The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel
Therooseveltneworleans.com
130 Roosevelt Way
More than just a bar, this restored landmark has kept the cocktails and conversations flowing for decades. The Roosevelt is among the best decorated hotels in town for the holidays! Take in the famous Paul Ninas murals at the African walnut bar as you sip a Sazerac, the official cocktail of New Orleans. The elegant old-world vibe will take you back to the grandeur of old New Orleans, a time when Huey P. Long would stroll in, order a Ramos Gin Fizz, and spend a few hours talking to his constituents. Restored to reflect the spirit of the original establishment, locals and visitors alike enjoy hand-crafted cocktails and free-flowing conversations here.
You will feel like you are in your mother’s kitchen again when you taste the Christmas Cookie. It’s on your holiday diet with heavy cream, vanilla vodka, and brown sugar syrup with sprinkles on top; you can almost smell the cookies baking. You’re sure to get in a holiday mood with the Candy Cane with White Creme de Cacao, Rumplemintz, Heavy Cream and a Raspberry Swirl. This cocktail is as pretty as it is delicious! If you’re in for the Superbowl, try the Royal Blues with Crown Royal Deluxe, Allspice Dram St. Elizabeth’s, Blueberries muddled or puréed, agave syrup, Calamansi and Tobacco Leather Bitters. For Mardi Gras, sip a Classic Champagne Cocktail with champagne, bitters and a sugar cube.
The Elysian Bar at Hotel Peter and Paul
Theelysianbar.com
2317 Burgundy St.
In the Marigny neighborhood, The Elysian Bar has an award-winning bar program with small plates of Mediterranean and European dishes with a nod to New Orleans. Situated in a former Catholic church, The Elysian Bar is a café, bar, and restaurant in a jewel box setting. It features a great wine list, storied cocktails and delicious nibbles. The bar is open from 3 p.m. daily with a late-night happy hour from 10 p.m. to midnight.
Try The Adding Machine with Jamaican rum, Aperol and yellow chartreuse, garnished with a fresh lime. Or maybe Blessed & Happy Afterlife suits your fancy with Pisco, gin, sweetened with Velvet Falernum, passion fruit, fresh lemon and tart Burlesque Bitters. Fortunate Isles combines white rum, overproof rum, coffee, banana, orgeat, lime and pineapple. All of these cocktails are heavenly!
The Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone
Hotelmonteleone.com
214 Royal St.
The celebrated Carousel Bar opened inside the historic Hotel Monteleone in 1949, becoming New Orleans’ first and only rotating bar. Its carousel theme and unique design is a treat you won’t find anywhere else, offering guests a pleasant, subtle rotation around a world-class cocktail bar every 15 minutes. Over the years, it has hosted a dazzling array of celebrities and entertainers, from the flamboyant Liberace to the soulful Dr. John, and from piano man Billy Joel to the legendary clarinetist, Pete Fountain.
Originally designed to evoke the spirit of a bustling carnival, The Carousel Bar has evolved over time. Today, it features a captivating ambiance with 186 twinkling lights adorning the canopy. The 25 hand-painted carousel seats, each depicting a whimsical circus animal, are a charming testament to the craftsmanship of Disney artists.
The Golden Cadillac is a sumptuous blend of Galliano, White Creme de Cacao, and Half and Half, garnished with cacao nibs. The Peppermint White Russian combines Wheatly Vodka, Kahlua, Peppermint Schnapps, Half and Half and is garnished with a candy cane… it’s sure to get you in the spirit! The Cranberry Aperol Spritz has Aperol, cranberry juice, fresh orange juice and Prosecco to make you feel merry and bright!
Peychaud’s at The Celestine
Thecelestinenola.com
727 Toulouse St.
This gorgeous new boutique hotel feels like your very own upscale French Quarter apartment. The building was once the residence of Antoine Amédée Peychaud, a Creole apothecary from the colony of Saint-Domingue, now Haiti. He prescribed and dispensed his patented herbal bitters, Peychaud’s Bitters, which is a foundational element in many classic New Orleans cocktails including the Sazerac. Guests can indulge in a cocktail at the bar in the beautiful courtyard.
Of course, the Sazerac is a New Orleans classic with deep historical roots. Made with Sazerac Rye, a dash of Demerara syrup, and 21 drops of the iconic Peychaud's Bitters, this cocktail is a celebration of heritage. Finished with an Herbsaint rinse for that unmistakable anise aroma, it offers a perfectly balanced taste of sweet, bitter and spice. Boukman Punch is inspired by the early leader in the Haitian revolution; it brings together Ak Zanj Dark Rum and Armagnac, adding layers of rich flavor. Fresh lime juice and cinnamon syrup give it a bold, tangy warmth. It’s a punch that tells a story with every sip, drawing on the vibrant history of the early leader of the Haitian Revolution, Dutty Boukman. Peychaud's Fizz is a refreshing, modern take on a spritz; it combines infused Peychaud’s Aperitivo with zesty lemon and lime juice. A touch of simple syrup and fresh cucumber rounds out the flavors, making it a light and invigorating cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.
The new year stands before us like a chapter in a book waiting to be written. Let’s celebrate the season … Cheers!
