Sangria is
the most popular alcoholic drink within the Spanish culture. It originated in
Spain and Portugal, and its main ingredients are red wine and chopped fruit.
The iced drink is usually served with other ingredients as well for different sangria
varieties. A more recent creation is the sangria
blanca, which is made with white wine instead of red. National Sangria Day
is Sunday, December 20, and, to celebrate, Where
Y'at has provided a list of five places to grab the best sangria in New
Orleans.
Lola's
In Mid-City,
Lola's
serves authentic Spanish food with a New Orleans twist. For over 20 years,
Lola's has been serving the people of the city and influencing local Creole
cuisine. The restaurant serves house-made sangrias, including both red and
white versions. Stop by for a glass or a pitcher. 3312 Esplanade Ave., (504)
488-6946, lolasneworleans.com
Bayou Wine
Garden
With 36
rotating wines offered regularly, Bayou Wine Garden is a popular
neighborhood wine bar and kitchen in Mid-City. The Wine Garden invites all to
come taste and learn about their selection of wine, cheese, and charcuterie.
For National Sangria Day, they're offering their BWG sangria, made with berry brandy,
citrus liqueur, tropical fruit juices, and your choice of red, white, or
sparkling wine. 315 N. Rendon St., (504) 826 - 2925, bayouwinegarden.com
This cozy spot in the
Quarter might be small, but it's big on flavor. Cuñada
is a Mexican restaurant with all the classics, such as nachos, tacos,
guacamole, chips and salsa… And they have an extensive cocktail list, including
a whole slew of Mexican beer, as well as frozen margaritas in flavors ranging
from blackberry to guava. But if you're looking to celebrate National Sangria Day,
they can help you there, too. Cuñada's sangria is made with red wine and soda, and
they add a little Tito's Vodka for an extra kick. 833 Conti St, (504) 525-9200, cunadanola.com
Alberto's
Cheese & Wine Bistro
Chef Juan
Hernandez is a native of Spain who serves the freshest Mediterranean
ingredients and dishes at his restaurant. Alberto's Cheese & Wine
Bistro in the French Market serves delicious Mediterranean-European
dishes at a reasonable price in a true New Orleans-style relaxing atmosphere.
The bistro serves fresh house-made sangria daily, which pairs well with their
cheese plates, salads, and sandwiches. Try their manchego cheese plate, for
another taste of Spain. 1100 N Peters St. #11, (504) 522-0507, albertoscheeseandwine.com
El Gato
Negro
El Gato Negro prides itself on being one of the
most authentic Mexican kitchens around. The dishes are inspired by family
recipes from Michoacán, a western Mexican state. The restaurant has exotic
drink enthusiasts on staff who can craft the perfect refreshing cocktails for
their guests. In addition to their famous mojitos and highly popular
margaritas, El Gato Negro also offers homemade sangria in both red and white.
Consider sharing a pitcher with friends, while snacking on any of their many
traditional dishes. Multiple Locations, elgatonegronola.com