Exploring the Taste of New Orleans in the French Quarter with a Cocktail Experience

New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, and a cocktail experience in its French Quarter is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s foodie scene. From neon-colored drinks to inventive takes on NOLA’s traditional flavors, there’s no shortage of exciting and tasty cocktails to sample. Here are the basics of what to expect with a French Quarter Cocktail Experience in New Orleans, plus some tips on the area’s best bars and restaurants.

What is a French Quarter Cocktail Experience?

A French Quarter Cocktail Experience is a guided tour of the area’s bars and restaurants that you can take with a guide who knows just where to find the most innovative and delicious cocktails around. You’ll be taken on a walking tour, stopping at some of the best bars and restaurants in the city for samples of their signature cocktails, as well as bites of local delicacies like chocolates, pralines, and oysters. Each restaurant or bar that you visit can also give you an insight into different eras of New Orleans’ food life, from the classic speakeasy at Pat O’Brien’s to the sophisticated flavors at Vacherie.

Given New Orleans internationally renowned social culture, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a night filled with interesting conversations and stories for years to come.

Locations to Visit During a French Quarter Cocktail Experience

The French Quarter makes up only one part of the City of New Orleans, but it’s packed with some of the best bars and restaurants around. Start your journey at one of the cities most iconic destinations, namely Pat O’Brien’s Bar. Here, you can sample one of their signature Hurricanes cocktails and listen to some live jazz while admixing with both tourists and locals alike. The bar is known as one of the founding places of New Orleans’ cocktail scene and is home to classic elements from all eras.

An absolute must-go for anyone who loves all things classic is Galatoire’s. At this glamorous eatery, you can sample their signature Sazeracs and Mint Juleps, all made with classic ingredients like rye whiskey and cognac. You can also try some of their tasty brie-oyster dishes for starters or tuna tartar for mains.

You could also go for Bar Marilou, a chic bar and restaurant that serves up greats drinks as well as innovative dishes made from New Orleans’s native and seasonal ingredients. Try their specialty “Happy Cat’ cocktail, made with elderflower liqueur, lime juice, absinthe and vodka. Enjoy it alongside some classic Creole flavors like beignets, gumbo and po’boys.

For a lively atmosphere that you won’t get anywhere else in New Orleans, head over to Kingfish. Here, you can try their unique “Absinthe Brain Drain’ – a combination of rum, tart cherry juice, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and absinthe. Sip it alongside some delicious southern classics such as crispy buttermilk fried chicken and gumbo. Some of the city’s best blues bands also perform here regularly so be sure not to miss out.

What Else Should You Know Before Going on a French Quarter Cocktail Experience?

Before embarking on your French Quarter cocktail experience, there are a few things you should bear in mind. Firstly, these tours usually don’t run all year round so make sure to check their website for any scheduling changes before you book your tickets. Secondly, while many establishments accept cash payments, others may require that you pay by credit card, so be sure to have one handy with you during your tour. Finally, wearing comfortable shoes is advised since this is a walking tour and portions of the trip may involve standing for long periods of time.

Book Your French Quarter Cocktail Experience Now!

Ready for a taste of New Orleans that no one should miss out on? Then why not book a guided French Quarter Cocktail Experience today! Experience the vibrant culture and vibrant flavors of the city from its incredibly talented bartenders and chefs. GetYourGuide offers several packages that include stops in some of the city’s most wonderful bars and restaurants for an unforgettable night out — complete with cocktails, delicious dishes and more! Book your French Quarter Cocktail Experience now. Bon Appetit!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to New Orleans: Discovering Hidden Gems and the Best Food and Drinks in the French Quarter

New Orleans, known as the Big Easy, is a vibrant and colorful city that offers visitors a unique cultural experience. From its music to its incredible cuisine, the city has a lot to offer. While its colonial-era architecture and lively nightlife may be the city’s calling cards, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in New Orleans. Here’s our insider’s guide to uncovering everything that this magical city has to offer.

Local Attractions That Are Hidden Gems

New Orleans is full of hidden gems that most tourists don’t know about. While the Bourbon Street and the French Quarter are must-see spots, it’s worthwhile to go off the beaten path and discover hidden treasures. Visit the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum and dive into the rich history and beautiful costumes of the iconic festival. The Sculpture Garden at City Park is another hidden gem, where you can enjoy the contemporary art collection and landscaped gardens. Take a stroll around Faubourg Marigny, a historic district that is often forgotten in favour of the French Quarter.

Where to Savour the Local Cuisine

New Orleans offers a unique culinary experience that shouldn’t be missed. Start by visiting the popular Café du Monde, known for its signature beignets and café au lait. Visit Commander’s Palace, a Creole eatery that has been serving traditional cuisine since the late 19th century. Dine on muffuletta sandwiches, po-boys, and jambalaya at the famous Central Grocery, which has been in business since 1906. Try crawfish etouffee at The Gumbo Shop and enjoy a unique dining experience on a steamboat with the Natchez Riverboat Dinner Cruise.

Discovering the Cultural Experiences

Experience New Orleans’ famous Jazz and Blues culture by attending a show at the Preservation Hall or at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. Attend the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, one of the best music festivals in the world, which takes place every spring. Take a tour of the colorful houses and street art in the vibrant Bywater District. Visit the famous Marie Laveau House of Voodoo to discover the city’s unique spiritual history.

Immerse Yourself in the City’s Rich History

New Orleans is a city rich in history, from the colonial era to modern times. Soak up the history by taking a stroll around the French Quarter’s Jackson Square, where the Louisiana Purchase was signed. Visit the Cabildo, where the Louisiana Purchase was finalized and learn about the role New Orleans played in America’s history. Pay your respects to the unknown soldiers at the United States National Cemetery.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly memorable experience, visit Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, a bar that dates back to the late 1700s and used to be a smuggler’s den. Go on a cemetery tour to learn about the unique crypts and tombs, and spooky legends that surround the St Louis Cemetery. Get spooked with a supernatural walk, discovering the haunted past of the city. Visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum, where you will learn all about the city’s unique Second Line tradition.

New Orleans is a city like no other, and our insider’s guide will ensure that you have the best time while exploring it. From restaurants and attractions to cultural experiences and offbeat adventures, this city has something for everyone. Uncover the hidden gems of New Orleans and share your unforgettable experiences with your friends.