New Orleans is a city that knows how to celebrate life, and its vibrant cocktail culture is a testament to that. From historic bars serving classic concoctions to innovative new spots mixing up fresh creations, the Crescent City offers something for every taste. Whether you’re strolling down Bourbon Street or lounging in a jazz bar, here are the top 13 drinks you can’t miss when in New Orleans.
1. Sazerac
As one of the oldest known cocktails, the Sazerac is New Orleans in a glass. Made with rye whiskey, a splash of absinthe, and Peychaud’s bitters, this drink is a strong yet smooth blend of flavors. Head to the Sazerac Bar in The Roosevelt Hotel to enjoy it in its birthplace.
2. Hurricane
The Hurricane is a sweet and fruity rum cocktail that became iconic at Pat O’Brien’s Bar in the French Quarter. Made with a mix of rum, passion fruit, and citrus juices, it’s served in a large, curved glass—perfect for cooling down during a hot Louisiana afternoon. Be warned: this drink is much stronger than it tastes!
3. Ramos Gin Fizz
This creamy, frothy gin-based cocktail is as delicate as it is complex. Created in the late 1800s by Henry Ramos, the drink blends gin, lemon and lime juice, egg white, cream, and orange flower water for a one-of-a-kind texture. Enjoy one at The Carousel Bar, where you can sip while slowly rotating around the bar.
4. Pimm’s Cup
A light and refreshing cocktail, the Pimm’s Cup became popular in New Orleans at the Napoleon House. Made with Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade, and a splash of soda, it’s garnished with cucumber for an extra fresh taste. It’s the perfect sipper for a hot day, offering a gentler option in a city known for its potent drinks.
5. Brandy Milk Punch
This brunch staple is as comforting as it sounds. Made with brandy (or bourbon), milk, vanilla, and nutmeg, it’s a rich and creamy treat that’s traditionally served during the holidays but loved year-round. Try it at Brennan’s, where it pairs perfectly with their famous breakfast dishes.
6. Absinthe Frappe
Absinthe has a long history in New Orleans, and the Absinthe Frappe is a refreshing, minty twist on the infamous green spirit. Invented at the Old Absinthe House in the late 19th century, this cocktail combines absinthe, simple syrup, and soda water. Its licorice flavor and cool finish make it a great option for adventurous drinkers.
7. Vieux Carré
Named after the French Quarter (Vieux Carré means “old square”), this cocktail is a sophisticated blend of rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It was created at the Carousel Bar and perfectly captures the spirit of New Orleans with its blend of rich, bold flavors. Sip this one slowly—it’s a drink to savor.
8. Frozen Irish Coffee
Found at Erin Rose in the French Quarter, this boozy frozen drink is a local favorite. Made with cold brew coffee, Irish whiskey, and a blend of milk and sugar, it’s like a creamy, caffeinated dessert. Perfect for a pick-me-up while wandering the streets, this icy treat will cool you down and wake you up.
9. French 75
The French 75 is an elegant, effervescent cocktail that blends gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne. Its origins are tied to New Orleans’ French influence, and it’s best enjoyed at Arnaud’s French 75 Bar. Light, crisp, and bubbly, this drink is ideal for kicking off an evening of celebration.
11. Café Brûlot
Absinthe has a long history in New Orleans, and the Absinthe Frappe is a refreshing, minty twist on the infamous green spirit. Invented at the Old Absinthe House in the late 19th century, this cocktail combines absinthe, simple syrup, and soda water. Its licorice flavor and cool finish make it a great option for adventurous drinkers.
12. Grasshopper
Created at Tujague’s in the French Quarter, the Grasshopper is a sweet, minty cocktail that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious. Made with green crème de menthe, white crème de cacao, and cream, it has a dessert-like quality. Its vibrant green color and silky texture make it a fun and indulgent choice.
13. Frozen Daiquiri
A quintessential New Orleans experience, the Frozen Daiquiri is the ultimate grab-and-go drink, found at drive-thru daiquiri shops around the city. These icy, slushy cocktails come in a variety of flavors, from classic strawberry to more adventurous combinations like piña colada and mango. Perfect for beating the heat, it’s a chilled treat that locals and tourists alike enjoy.
New Orleans’ drinking scene is as diverse and colorful as the city itself, offering a mix of timeless classics and bold innovations. Whether you’re sipping on a historic Sazerac or trying the infamous Hurricane, every drink tells a story. So, next time you’re in the Big Easy, be sure to raise a glass to its legendary cocktail culture!