New Orleans is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the U.S. for cocktails. The motto here is “Laissez les bon temps rouler,” or “Let the good times roll,” and those good times often include some fantastic drinks. Unlike in many places, New Orleans has very relaxed drinking laws: you can drink in public, bars can stay open 24/7, and there are even drive-through spots for frozen daiquiris.
I recently visited during a citywide celebration and did some extensive “research” on the best cocktails you can find here. From classy to wild, you’ll find it all within just a few city blocks. And if you enjoy an adult beverage while traveling, the Big Easy will not disappoint.
Let’s dive into some of the must-try cocktails of New Orleans.
The Sazerac
We’ll start with the Sazerac, often considered the oldest cocktail in the U.S., dating back to the 1830s. A Creole man named Antoine Peychaud, who owned an apothecary, originally mixed French brandy with his own bitters and served it in egg cups known as “coquetiers.” Over time, the drink transitioned from cognac to rye whiskey due to an epidemic that wiped out French vineyards. A ban on absinthe in 1912 led bartenders to substitute it with anise-flavored liqueurs like Herbsaint, which is still used today. The Roosevelt Hotel’s Sazerac Bar is the top place to try this historic drink.
The Hurricane
Invented in the 1940s by Pat O’Brien, the Hurricane cocktail was created to use up an excess of rum. Combining rum with passion fruit and lemon juice, the drink is served in hurricane lamp-shaped glasses. Pat O’Brien’s bar remains the best place to enjoy one, especially in their courtyard with dueling pianos and a flaming fountain.
Brandy Milk Punch
Brandy Milk Punch, perfected in New Orleans, became a brunch staple thanks to the efforts of Owen Brennan. This cocktail is a mix of brandy, milk, powdered sugar (or simple syrup), and a dash of nutmeg. Brennan’s is the go-to place to try it, ideally paired with a classic New Orleans brunch.
Ramos Gin Fizz
Henry C. Ramos created the Ramos Gin Fizz in 1888 at his bar, the Imperial Cabinet Saloon. The cocktail includes gin, heavy cream, powdered sugar, lemon & lime juices, an egg white, and orange flower water, topped with soda water. Initially requiring 12 minutes of shaking, this drink was so labor-intensive that Ramos hired multiple bartenders just to shake it. The Roosevelt Hotel is the best spot to enjoy this fizzy delight.
Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré, named after the French Quarter, is a blend of French cognac, Italian vermouth, American whiskey, and Caribbean bitters. Created in the 1930s at the Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone, this drink is best enjoyed in this historic and rotating bar.
Pimm’s Cup
Originally from London, the Pimm’s Cup arrived in New Orleans with a twist at the Napoleon House. This refreshing cocktail includes Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade, 7-Up, and a cucumber garnish. Napoleon House is the premier place to try it, with Bar Tonique being another excellent spot.
Hand Grenade
For those looking to get a bit wild, the Hand Grenade is a must. This potent drink, known for its melon flavor and secret ingredients, comes in a distinctive green plastic yard glass. You can only find them at Tropical Isle locations on Bourbon Street and the Funky Pirate bar.
Exploring New Orleans means discovering its drinks alongside its distinct history. Start your day with a Brandy Milk Punch at Brennan’s, cool off with a Ramos Gin Fizz, and finish off with a Hurricane or Hand Grenade on Bourbon Street. If you’ve enjoyed a particular cocktail or bar in New Orleans, feel free to share your recommendations!
