As America’s favorite place to party, New Orleans is a go-to destination for anyone that wants to enjoy high-quality cocktails while enjoying a night out on the town, but if you think the classic Hurricane is the only drink of choice in “The Big Easy,” you’re in for a delicious surprise.
The spirit of New Orleans has led to the creation of some of the best food and music you’ll find in America, but the city is also the birthplace of several cocktails that are simply better when sipped in New Orleans. The next time you’re in NOLA, skip the Hurricane and opt for one of these drinks instead.
Sazerac
Hurricane’s are the #1 drink in New Orleans, but the Sazerac is a close second. A New Orleans take on a cognac or whiskey cocktail, the Sazerac originated in the city and is made with Absinthe, sugar, water, Peychaud’s bitters, and Rye whiskey or Cognac. The Sazerac is so popular that the city itself uses the drink to share the heritage of the city in their #OneTimeinNOLA campaign, and you’ll find variations of the cocktail all over town.
Where to drink it: The Sazerac Bar
Brandy Milk Punch
If you’re in town around the holidays, be sure to order the Brandy Milk Punch, which is made up of brandy, whole milk, simple syrup, and vanilla extract. The drink is perfect for you if you like eggnog, and you’ll find it at nearly every restaurant that serves brunch.
Where to drink it: Brennan’s Restaurant, Bourbon House
RELATED: How To Spend A Day In Black-Owned New Orleans
Ramos Gin Fizz
Another cocktail with New Orleans roots, the Ramos Gin Fizz was created by Henry C. Ramos in 1888 and consists of gin, lemon juice, lime juice, egg white, sugar, cream, orange flower water, and soda water. Go easy on these because they’re so tasty you’ll want more before you know it!
Where to drink it: The Carousel Bar & Lounge
Absinthe Frappe
Absinthe isn’t for the timid drinker, but this refreshing blend of the licorice-flavored liqueur, soda water, and mint is a great alternative to the Hurricane if you’re on the hunt for a cocktail that will help you beat the New Orleans heat. The cocktail dates back more than a century and it’s simple ingredients have helped it to have staying power.
Where to drink it: Old Absinthe House, where the drink was invented.
Daiquiris
Hurricanes may be the most well-known drink in New Orleans, but it’s the fruity and sweet frozen daiquiris that you’ll find everywhere you turn. The daiquiri didn’t originate in New Orleans and rum can easily be replaced with another spirit when making the drink, but when you want to start your night off right without breaking the bank, this is what you’ll probably be drinking.
Where to drink it: Kingfish, Queenie’s on St. Claude, Big Easy Daiquiris, and New Orleans Original Daiquiris