CBD/WAREHOUSE DISTRICT
Above the Grid (NOPSI Hotel): Located on the rooftop of the newly opened NOPSI Hotel, Above the Grid is an up-and-coming hot spot with a business casual atmosphere. Offering a 180-degree view of the New Orleans skyline from the heart of the CBD, ample seating, and a pool open until 8 p.m., this bar has everything from signature cocktails to elevated bar food—and you can capture it all in a made-for-Instagram sunset setting. 317 Baronne St.; rooftop, 962-6500, nopsihotel.com
Alto (Ace Hotel New Orleans): Enjoy your own personal oasis at Alto on the rooftop of Ace Hotel New Orleans. While sitting poolside beneath the open sky and surrounded by lush greenery, it’s easy to forget about the bustling metropolis below. Treat yourself to a mini-vacation, complete with a frozen drink or classic cocktail; you deserve it! 600 Carondelet St.; rooftop, 900-1180, acehotel.com
WXYZ Bar in Aloft New Orleans: This trendy hotel bar is easy to enjoy as either a local or a tourist. The cocktails are well-executed and moderately priced. Kick back and play some games with friends or simply socialize—or take advantage of the bar’s central location and clientele, which can offer up some prime networking opportunities. 225 Baronne St., 581-9225, aloftneworleansdowntown.com
FRENCH QUARTER
Backspace: Stimulate your mind (and taste buds) at this literary-themed haunt that, while specializing in classic cocktails and comfort food, is known for the city’s best milk and cookies. The menu pays homage to famous New Orleans writers, and their burger is practically legendary in and of itself. Try it with a Prohibition-era cocktail, like the Mary Pickford or Sidecar, for some great American novel inspiration. 139 Chartres St., 322-2245, backspacenola.com
Bar Mon Cher: You’ll feel right at home in this renovated Creole-style townhouse. The ambient blue lighting, indicative of a jazz club, provides an atmosphere that is warm and inviting with a touch of sophistication. They offer a range of cocktails from seasonal to classics, and for something a little less traditional, check out their weekly events like Burlesque Bingo or Goth Night. 817 St. Louis St., 644-4278, barmoncher.com
Bar Tonique: This joint is the embodiment of the craft cocktail movement. Their impressive cocktail list is only rivaled by the extensive knowledge of the bartenders who create them. If you appreciate the art of mixology, this is the place to go. Don’t miss their amazing selection of whiskeys and rums, many of which you will have never seen before. Be sure to check out their chalkboard for daily drink specials. 820 N. Rampart St., 324-6045, bartonique.com
Batch Bar in Hyatt French Quarter: With its location just off Bourbon Street, Batch is in a league of its own. This contemporary bar, with its sleek wooden décor, offers a trendy, sophisticated atmosphere and specializes in artisan whiskies and infused liquors. The friendly bartenders will give you five-star treatment even if you aren’t a hotel guest. Check out their selection of cocktails infused by the barrel, available by the glass or for the table. 800 Iberville St., 586-0800, frenchquarter.centric.hyatt.com
Coyote Ugly: If you’re in the mood for drinks and a show, look no further than Coyote Ugly. The New Orleans outpost isn’t quite as rambunctious as its counterpart in the 2000 romantic dramedy film—don’t go in expecting the bar to be lit on fire—but dancing on it is still encouraged. With tons of daily and weekly specials, it’s a must to visit. 225 N. Peters St., 561-003, coyoteuglysaloon.com
Crescent City Brewhouse: Opened in 1991, this microbrewery in the heart of the French Quarter became the first brewpub in New Orleans and Louisiana. Their 17-barrel small-batch brewery combines Old-World techniques and modern technology to bring you a unique selection of house-made lagers. There’s something for everyone, from a light pilsner to the rich and dark Black Forest, so grab a pint or try a flight—prost! 527 Decatur St., 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Effervescence: The perfect date spot, this champagne bar oozes elegance all around. The extensive sparkling wine list is perfectly complemented by the small plates menu, which includes offerings such as caviar and grilled octopus. If you can’t make up your mind or want some variety, try one of the bubbly flights—a pairing of three champagnes available by the full or half-glass. 1036 N. Rampart St., 509-7644, nolabubbles.com
Funky Pirate: Part of the Tropical Isle family, the Funky Pirate is the even funkier cousin. Enjoy the pirate-themed décor in this Bourbon Street blues club that features live jazz or blues music nightly. Or, sip a famous Hand Grenade while tuning in to the 80” hi-def TV that alternates between showing the big game and a selection of pirate movies. Arrrr! 727 Bourbon St., 523-1927, thefunkypirate.com
Golden Lantern: Famous not only for its involvement in the founding of Southern Decadence, the Golden Lantern is also reputed to have one of the best Bloody Marys in the city. Though traditionally a gay bar, anyone is welcome in this 24-hour neighborhood establishment. Check out their drag shows on Friday or Saturday nights for some truly fabulous entertainment. 1239 Royal St., 529-2860, facebook.com/GoldenLanternBar
Hermes Bar at Antoine’s: In 2009, the world-renowned French-Creole eatery Antoine’s converted one of its dining rooms into the Hermes Bar. Featuring encased Mardi Gras memorabilia and classic New Orleans cocktails, the Hermes Bar is about as Old New Orleans as it gets. If you’re feeling extravagant, pair your Sazerac or Ramos Gin Fizz with Antoine’s famous Oysters Rockefeller or Soufflé Potatoes. 725 St. Louis St., 581-4422, antoines.com
House of Blues: This well-established concert venue also houses its own bar and restaurant. The menu features a range of regional dishes, from Nashville hot wings to voodoo shrimp, which are sautéed in an Abita Amber reduction sauce. If you’re looking to pregame before a show, check out their Happy Hour for $3 domestic and local craft beers. 225 Decatur St., 310-4999, houseofblues.com
Jimani: If you’re looking for somewhere to end your late-night (or early-morning) adventures, Jimani is the spot. This French Quarter dive offers quality bar food at a reasonable price. They’re known for their Bacon Bloody Mary, but if that doesn’t tempt you, something from their selection of over 100 beers will. 141 Chartres St., 524-0493, thejimani.com
Kerry Irish Pub: This Irish spot is distinguished by its distinctive decor: hundreds of dollar bills stapled to the walls and ceilings. With no cover charge, you can enjoy live music nearly seven nights a week! Kerry’s is reputed to pour the best Guinness in town, so swing by for a pint or, if you’re feeling adventurous, their drink the Car Bomb. 331 Decatur St., 527-5954
Ole Saint: What could be better than watching a Saints game in a bar dedicated to one of the team’s legendary running backs? The bar’s décor is at once a tribute to both New Orleans and Deuce McAllister, featuring memorabilia from his career with the Saints and Ole Miss Rebels. In addition to a taproom with over 50 local and national draught options, the kitchen serves some of the best Southern coastal cuisine. 132 Royal St., 309-4797, olesaint.com
Orleans Grapevine: This wonderful fine-dining bistro is a must-visit for any wine aficionado. With 65 wines and champagnes by the glass and over 375 by the bottle, it is impossible for you not to find the perfect pairing for your meal. Don’t miss the amazing Bacon Happy Hour twice daily: 4 – 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. – midnight. Both include bottomless apple-cured bacon! 720 Orleans St., 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Pat O’Briens Bar: For the locals, Pat O’Brien’s requires little introduction. As the inventor of the Hurricane, the bar has been a long-standing destination for visitors clamoring to try the fruity rum concoction. Due to their fame, the bar tends to crowd, but if you can check it out during an off-time, the gorgeous patio and gardens can be a relaxing setting to enjoy any cocktail. 718 St. Peter St., 525-4823, patobriens.com
The Penthouse Club: For some adult entertainment, check out this spot a half block off Bourbon Street. Despite being referred to as a “gentlemen’s club,” Penthouse is open to all patrons. With two bars and three stages, this upscale spot meets all your needs, whether it’s for a group celebration or a memorable night out. 727 Iberville St., 524-4354, penthouseclubneworleans.com
Rick’s Cabaret: Amidst the densely packed bars on Bourbon Street, the beauty of Rick’s Cabaret sets it apart from the rest. With 18,000 square feet and two floors, this gentleman’s club creates its own microcosm of entertainment. Stop in for a drink, and stay for the show. 315 Bourbon St., 524-4222, rickscabaretnola.com
Rick’s Sporting Saloon: At Rick’s Sporting Saloon, you’ll find the “ultimate man cave.” With all the amenities of a sports bar (i.e. multiple TVs and cold beer) and gentlemen’s club-style entertainment, the title is well-deserved. Drinks are half-price every day until 7 p.m., making it worth the stop even if there isn’t a game on. 522 Bourbon St., 552-2510, ricks-saloon.com
The Tahyo Tavern: Named after the Cajun term for “big hungry dog,” Tahyo is owned and operated by the extended family of the Villalobos Dog Rescue folks. After expenses, all proceeds from the restaurant are used to support operating costs for their facilities. You don’t need a reason to eat good food—but it tastes better knowing it supports a good cause. 1140 Decatur St., 301-1991, thetahyotavern.com
Tropical Isle: There is arguably nothing more definitively Bourbon Street than the Hand Grenade. “New Orleans’s most powerful drink” in its instantly recognizable neon green souvenir cup is the brainchild of Tropical Isle, which has several storefronts throughout the Quarter. If you aren’t ready to take the plunge, several other signature drinks like the Tropical Itch will still pack a punch. Multiple Locations, 529-1702, tropicalisle.com
GRETNA
Gattuso’s: Head to Gretna’s Historic District for this locally owned and operated Westbank gem. With 14 beers on tap and full menu stocked with New Orleans favorites from crawfish dip to muffalettas and po-boys, this low-key spot is perfect for an afternoon lunch or evening hang-out. This place offers the best burger for your buck in town, and it’s only $5 on Thursdays. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna; 368-1114, gattusos.net
JEFFERSON
Rivershack Tavern: Only in New Orleans is there a bar with a barter system involving free drinks for tacky ashtrays; the tackier the ashtray, the better the drink. The unique decoration also extends to the barstools—designed as legs, which are made on-premise to reflect different walks of life. Throw in standout bar food, live music, and a welcoming attitude, and this offbeat bar off the beaten path is well-worth the visit. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson; 834-4938, therivershacktavern.us
LAKEVIEW
Parlay’s: Parlay's is the kind of place that is hopping every night of the week. Boasting the area’s longest bar, an infamously rowdy Ladies’ night, and a free food spread on certain nights, Parlay’s is a neighborhood favorite. On football Sundays, the bar is flooded with black and gold as Lakeview residents turn out to support the Saints. 870 Harrison Ave., 304-6338, parlaysbar.net
MARIGNY/BYWATER
Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant: This neighborhood gem has been “on the border of the Quarter since 1939.” With 24/7 full service and a backroom featuring live music, Buffa’s is a one-stop shop at an affordable price. As much a restaurant as it is a bar, try an order of their renowned reuben sandwich, or complement your Sunday mimosas with music at their jazz brunch, featuring the New Orleans Dixieland band Some Like It Hot! 1001 Esplanade Ave. 949-0038. buffasbar.com
Cosimo’s: It’s the neighborhood bar you wish you had in your neighborhood. Stop in to shoot a game of pool, throw darts, or play a diddy on the old piano in the corner. Cosimo’s is the kind of place you immediately feel like you’ve been going to for ages. With seven flat-screens and Happy Hour specials, it’s one of the more relaxed (and cheapest!) spots to catch a Saints game. 1201 Burgundy St., 522-9715
J&J’s Sports Bar: This Bywater sports bar is one of the cheapest watering holes in town ($2.50 PBR, High Life, and Schlitz)—making every hour happy. Sports fans will delight in the numerous TVs and the big-screen projector, which play everything from football to baseball to European soccer. Even if you aren’t local, this bar will make you feel like part of the neighborhood. 800 France St., 942-8877, jjssportslounge.com
Mimi’s In The Marigny: This split-level bar and restaurant can be either a casual hangout or more intimate setting. The downstairs vintage oak bar is effortlessly cool, offering reasonably priced cocktails, a pool table, and dartboard. For an upscale romantic meal at an affordable price, head upstairs for some critically acclaimed tapas, served late into the night. 2601 Royal St., 872-9868, mimismarigny.com
METAIRIE
Martine’s Lounge: Step outside of the city at Martine’s. This Metairie hideout does Happy Hour right—every day from 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.! Grab a domestic beer for $2, and for $2 more, you can add a well shot. Don’t be fooled by the modest exterior, they offer an impressive cocktail menu including house specialties that rival any bar in the city. You can still smoke inside this bar. 2347 Metairie Rd., 831-8637
MID-CITY
Finn McCool’s: This Mid-City Irish pub is more than a St. Patrick’s Day destination spot. With ample outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a late (or early) afternoon beer. Soccer fans will rejoice among the dozens of TVs displaying different national and international games. Try your luck at Monday Night Trivia to win some awesome prizes, ranging from a bottle of wine or champagne to a free bar tab. 3701 Banks St., 486-9080, finnmccools.com
Pal’s Lounge: Located in a nondescript house in Mid-City, Pal’s will make you feel right at home after being buzzed in. With a pinball machine, air hockey, and tons of board games, this low-key neighborhood hangout has no shortage of things to do. Add affordable drinks and food pop-ups, and this place gives you all the ingredients to concoct a good time. 949 N. Rendon St., 488-7257
Shamrock Bar & Grill: With 16,000-square feet of fun, this neighborhood bar is great for a group of friends. The beer is cold and the food is hot and both are served at reasonable prices. With 23 pool tables and dozens of games, including ping pong, mini bowling, boxing, and shuffleboard, Shamrock is the adult arcade you’ve been looking for. 4133 S. Carrollton Ave., 307-4350, shamrockparty.com
UPTOWN/GARDEN DISTRICT
Hot Tin: Head to Hot Tin for one of the best views of the city. The penthouse-turned-bar on the rooftop of the Pontchartrain Hotel offers a 270-degree view of Downtown, the Mississippi River, and historic St. Charles Avenue. The intimate space is perfect for cozy cocktails with friends or a nightcap. Beat the crowds and score a one-of-a-kind balcony picture by stopping in on a weekday night. 2031 St. Charles Ave., 323-1500, hottinbar.com
Le Bon Temps Roulé: This Uptown bar has been a cornerstone in the New Orleans music scene since 1979 and helped nurture the careers of local talent including Kermit Ruffins and the Soul Rebels Brass Band. The bar continues to hold performances in their intimate back room, where bands play among the audience instead of on a stage. Go in Fridays after 7 p.m. for free (!) oysters and live music. 4801 Magazine St., 895-8117, lbtrnola.com
Parasol’s: Situated in the heart of the Irish Channel, Parasol’s has been ground zero for St. Patrick’s Day since 1952. While they can make a mean Irish coffee, they are also known for serving some of the best po-boys in the city. Order the roast beef or fire cracker shrimp, and while you wait, sip on a stout at the bar. 2533 Constance St., 302-1549
Port Orleans Brewing Co.: This up-and-coming brewery has already established itself through the off-beat beer it crafts. Enjoy one of their brews on the outdoor patio—which is also dog friendly! The space houses the restaurant Stokehold, which offers a rotating locally inspired menu. Check out one of the brewery tours every Saturday and Sunday at noon and 2 p.m.—after trying a 10-ounce sample, you’ll be ready for another round. 4124 Tchoupitoulas St., 266-2332, portorleansbrewingco.com
St. Joe’s Bar: This uptown staple is known for the city’s best mojitos, including the St. Joe’s Blueberry Mojito. Located just across from Whole Foods, St. Joe’s is also known for amazing cocktails, a great beer selection, and an outdoor patio that’s perfect on a cool autumn evening. Enjoy the funky decor while chatting up with friends old and new. 5535 Magazine St., 899-3744, stjoesbar.com
Tracey’s: Established in 1949, Tracey’s is the original Irish Channel bar and a Magazine Street staple. This popular spot consistently serves cold beer and amazing roast beef po-boys and often features oysters shucked to order right out front. Come by on a Wednesday for 50 cent wings and then return on Thursday for $2 tacos! 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, traceysnola.com
