Sippin' in NOLA
Embark on a spirited journey through the rich tapestry of New Orleans, where history, culture, and innovation come together in the city's bars and lounges.
Whether you're a cocktail aficionado, a music lover, or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind, New Orleans has something for everyone. Here, we showcase distinctive bars and lounges in the city of New Orleans, renowned for their unique charm, exceptional cocktails between $10-$20, and vibrant atmospheres. Keep in mind that there are numerous other fantastic bars and lounges in New Orleans, each with its own special offerings. We encourage you to venture beyond our list to discover more hidden gems and unique experiences.
Bar Métier | 544 Carondelet St.
Sun-Thurs: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Fri & Sat: 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Formerly known as Bar Marilou, this French-style luxurious and eclectic bar is located in a former library and maintains a bookish charm with its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. The rich red hues and velvet seating add to its opulent allure. Cocktails are priced between $16 and $18, and there's no cover charge. The bar's signature feature is a private "speakeasy within a speakeasy," available by reservation only, where patrons can enjoy an even more exclusive experience.
Hot Tin | 2031 St. Charles Ave.
Sun-Thurs: 2 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Fri & Sat: 2 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Located on top of the Pontchartrain Hotel, Hot Tin has beautiful views of New Orleans' skyline. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxed with a chic, 1940s-inspired interior. The bar serves cocktails priced between $14 and $16. The venue is only open to guests 21 and older, and there's no cover charge unless there's a special event. The main attraction of Hot Tin is the stunning view, especially at sunset. It's a great place for a romantic evening or a sophisticated night out.
Jolie | 324 Julia St.
Mon & Wed: 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Thurs: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.; Fri & Sat: 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Jolie exudes a sultry, exclusive vibe with low lighting, plush seating, and art deco accents. Expect to pay $15 to $19 for a well-crafted cocktail, as well as $11 to $13 for mocktails. Entry is free with online reservations through Resy. The kitchen is open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday (closed on Tuesdays) and 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Enjoy their creative cocktail menu featuring seasonal ingredients and local flavors. They also switch out cocktails for each season and also host brunch and special entertainment on certain Wednesdays nights.
JusTini's | 3162 Dauphine St.
Tues-Thurs: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri: 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Sat: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Nestled in the eclectic vibe of New Orleans' Bywater neighborhood, this bar offers stylish yet relaxed ambiance and serves fancy cocktails priced from $12 to $16. The simple menu resonates with the local neighborhood, complementing the beautiful interior and exterior, which is complete with an inviting outdoor courtyard. Its unique fusion food items provide casual and flavorful dining options, perfect for date nights or casual meetups.
Maze Lounge | 5123 Canal Blvd.
Fri & Sat: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Sun, Tue, Wed, & Thu: 5 p.m. to 12 p.m.
This revamped, trendy lounge is known for its unique style layout and vibrant atmosphere with outside seating, all of which are Instagrammable. Drinks range from $16 to $20, and RSVP is required for entry. Their signature features are special cocktail nights almost every night, as well as frequent live DJ performances, making it a hotspot for nightlife enthusiasts looking to dance the night away.
NightBloom | 3100 St. Claude Ave.
Daily: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Discover a new local hotspot, renowned for its vibrant cocktail bar atmosphere and exuding tranquility and cool style. This unpretentious, charming minimalist bar features dusty pink and muted teal decor, along with simple furnishings and grandma-chic curtains. The turquoise-painted walls are adorned with bulkhead-style light sconces, mirrors, art, and plants, creating an inviting ambiance. On any given evening, the dim interior dances with the light of votive candles and resonates with a soundtrack of neo-soul and eclectic mashups by DJs, offering instant relaxation, especially during vinyl nights. Indulge in a range of cocktails priced between $10 to $15, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or twilight night caps.
Paradise Lounge | 1507 Magazine St.
Sun-Thurs: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Fri & Sat: 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.
The Hotel Saint Vincent's Paradise Lounge is a tropical oasis in the heart of Uptown. The lounge features lush greenery, bamboo accents, and tiki torches, creating an island escape within the city. There's no cover charge, and cocktails range from $14 to $20. The lounge is known for its wide selection of rum and signature cocktails, all enjoyed in a vibrant atmosphere.
Vessel NOLA | 3835 Iberville St.
Mon-Thurs: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri: 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Sat: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Looking for a one-of-a-kind dining and drinking experience in Mid-City? Look no further than Vessel, nestled in a historic (and perhaps haunted) 1914 church. Just a block away from the Canal Streetcar, Vessel offers a menu that highlights locally-sourced, fresh seasonal ingredients in true New Orleans fashion. Head to brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., or go in whenever they're open to experience $12-$15 cocktails. Whether you're seeking an intimate dinner both inside or on their outdoor patio, or just a drink at their bar, Vessel has something for everyone.
