Best Cocktail Lounges in New Orleans

When you’re visiting New Orleans, there’s no better way to relax and enjoy the vibrant Cajun culture than winding down with a drink at the local cocktail lounge. New Orleans is well known for its annual Mardi Gras festival, but it’s a twenty-four hour city every other day of the year! Enjoy your drinks and appetizers at any of the area’s top cocktail lounges on your trip or visit this year:

The French 75 Bar in the middle of the French Quarter is found at 813 Bienville Street. You’ll find a wide range of tobacco and cigar selections from the Caribbean to Switzerland, so if you are a smoker, take some time to browse and sample the top choice varieties. The dark wood atmosphere will lure you in to enjoy a classic scotch on the rocks in true southern fashion. Call (504) 523-5432 to learn more about Arnaud’s Restaurant and the cigar menu.

The Loa Bar at 221 Camp Street is inside the International House Hotel. This popular tourist spot is decked out in historical French-inspired décor, including classic smoky mirrors and plush sofas. The hip and popular venue features a diverse cocktail menu and plenty of interesting crowds to capture your attention. Call (504) 553-9550 for more information.

Be sure to make your presence known at the Spotted Cat, the place to enjoy some live jazz inside a classic lounge atmosphere. The comfortable couches and dark wood and mahogany décor will have you lounging into the late night hours with your favorite martini by your side. Call (504) 943-3887 for more information and music schedules.

If you’re staying at the W Hotel on 333 Poydras Street, consider yourself lucky with the Whisky Blue bar and lounge located within the hotel. It’s New Orleans chic at its best, complete with blue backlighting, with a perfect atmosphere to socialize and mingle with other visitors and locals alike. Enjoy the classical but contemporary setting complete with black and white photos on the walls and plenty of leather couches to sink into. Call (504) 207-5016 for more information.