New Orleans, Louisiana

The Bombay Club continues to be a quintessential destination for those seeking an elegant and sophisticated experience. Modeled after a British gentleman's club, it offers a classy setting where guests can enjoy authentic Creole cuisine alongside an impressive selection of craft cocktails, single malt scotches, ports, reserved bourbons, and premium cigars. Plus, a menu that includes steaks, seafood options, and nightly live music.

The Spotted Cat Music Club is a beloved local institution known for its authentic and intimate jazz experience. This cozy venue, often referred to simply as "The Cat," is a magnet for both locals and visitors who are eager to escape the chaos of Bourbon Street and immerse themselves in the true essence of New Orleans music. With live performances that range from traditional and modern jazz to blues and funk, The Spotted Cat offers music lovers a chance to enjoy some of the best local talent the city has to offer.

This iconic New Orleans jazz hall, operational since 1961, continues to be a cornerstone of the city's rich musical heritage, hosting over 350 live jazz performances annually. Payment is cash-only, and it's best to arrive early to claim some of the limited seating on benches if you'd rather not stand.

Housed in a circa-1902 saloon, Ernst Cafe offers a taste of authentic New Orleans in a setting that radiates historic charm. With its rustic, inviting interior featuring exposed brick walls and wood accents, the restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying some delicious Cajun pub grub and NOLA staples like Gumbo and Jambalaya. Their menu also boasts unique creations like Creole nachos and the signature “Ernster Po’boy,” a mouthwatering twist on a classic, combining slow-cooked roast beef, Swiss cheese, and deep-fried Gulf shrimp. To complete the experience, wash it all down with one of their specialty drinks or a local brew.

The storied Sazerac Bar has been a symbol of class and quality in New Orleans since the days of Huey P. Long. Located in the Grand Roosevelt Hotel, this legendary bar is renowned for its signature cocktails, including the iconic Sazerac, considered by many to be the world’s first mixed drink. The African walnut bar is as stunning as ever, and the plush banquettes and elegant old-world vibe create an intimate atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a busy day.

Tropical Isle is a festive, island-themed bar famous for its lively atmosphere and signature Hand Grenade cocktail, which you can enjoy in a plastic souvenir mug. The bar offers live music, a wraparound balcony with views, big-screen televisions, billiards, and a jukebox, creating a fun and entertaining environment. Whether you're there for the vibrant neon lights, Mardi Gras beads, or just to relax with great drinks and food, Tropical Isle guarantees an enjoyable evening in the heart of New Orleans.

The name says it all: Rock 'N' Bowl combines great live music with the fun of bowling, creating a uniquely entertaining experience. Plus, a bar and Creole-inspired eats to keep you fueled during hours of fun. Whether you're hitting the lanes or the dance floor, Rock 'N' Bowl guarantees a good time for everyone.'

The Jimani is a lively neighborhood bar offering a true sports bar experience with TVs broadcasting the latest games, a selection of over 100 beers, and classic pub fare served late into the night. Enjoy trivia nights, a jukebox, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Bacchanal call themselves a "wine laboratory," and what they concoct is a mix of good food, great music, and of course, fine wine. This unique wine shop has over 100 varieties, which you can enjoy alongside delicious cheese platters and live local music on their lush back patio.

Originally a "gentlemen-only" area, French 75 at Arnaud's emphasizes class, sophistication, and old-school elegance, offering fine spirits, classic cocktails, and premium cigars in a refined atmosphere. The bar is part of Arnaud’s Restaurant, a "grande dame" of Creole dining since 1918, known for its seafood classics and jazz brunch. Upstairs, the free Germaine Wells Mardi Gras Museum adds a unique cultural touch to your visit and is well worth exploring.

Sunday afternoons are a special time to visit the Maple Leaf Bar, home to the longest-running poetry reading in the Southern United States. But don’t limit yourself to just one day—this iconic venue is a treat any day of the week, offering a diverse lineup of live music, from funk and zydeco to jazz, R&B, and blues.

Cure, a stylish cocktail bar in the Uptown neighborhood, offers a sophisticated experience that harkens back to the elegance of classic cocktail lounges. Housed in a beautifully repurposed firehouse, Cure combines a dimly lit, intimate atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails that showcase the skills of its talented mixologists. The bar is renowned for its creative drinks, which pay homage to the origins of cocktails as medicinal concoctions, and it also features an eclectic menu of dishes that perfectly complement the beverages. Cure has earned a James Beard Award in 2018 and ranks No. 47 on North America's 50 Best Bars list (2024), making it a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.