In a city where drinking and cocktailing is the norm, New Orleans seems to provide a delightfully free and unique experience to the visitor. What the locals drink and how they go about it is delicious, interesting, and even aspirational. New Orleans is home to so many classics that never died; all of which can be (and should be) enjoyed with Chris Hannah and crew at Arnaud’s French 75. You must have a classic cocktail, whether Milk Punch, Sazerac, Ramos Gin Fizz, Vieux Carre, or the namesake a French 75, done with truly French touch. (Recommended by Chris Hannah)

Notable bartender: Chris Hannah

Bouligny Tavern is bright yet classic, from its mid-century modern design and style to its cocktails. Plush seating and warm tones are lit up by dashes of color in cocktails, food, and art that accent each other almost unmistakably so. Locals and visitors alike gather to share a little bit of everything. Tasty small plates are enjoyed alongside artfully crafted cocktails. Carey Palmer and his crew supply a playful mix of cocktails, from the classic Blood & Sand to original seasonal concoctions, such as the Teaticket Fizz (Oolong tea-infused vodka, cranberry liqueur, lemon juice, soda).

Notable bartender: Carey Palmer

Step away from the lights of Bourbon Street and into an experience that they call Cure. The raw industrial feel of the exposed brick plays backdrop to the many natural elements of trees and wood. It seems the cocktail program here follows the same ideal: raw product mixed reverently with some innovation. Kirk Estopinal, Turk Dietrich, and Nick Dietrich, head barmen, warm you up and make you feel right at home with their bold, spirit-forward cocktails. When a spirit is made well, there’s no need to hide its beautiful nuances. So they don’t. They enhance it with complements. What a treat.

Notable bartenders: Kirk Estopinal, Turk Dietrich, Nick Dietrich