Off-the-Beaten-Path Guide to the French Quarter

Cane & Table

For a taste of Caribbean flavors in NOLA, Cane & Table is a mini oasis. Its creative cocktails made this local gem a James Beard Foundation Outstanding Bar Program semifinalist — in other words, it’s an experience you can’t pass up!

Jewel of the South

This gorgeous Creole cottage on the edge of the Quarter is definitely worth a stop for any craft cocktail enthusiasts. This is another spot with the side-alleyway-to-back-courtyard entrance, lending to the IYKYK vibe, and the indoor dining room is intimate enough to feel like not everyone is in on the secret. They also have a full menu if you’re feeling hungry–or you can treat yourself to their caviar service.

Manolito

This tucked-away Cuban delight is known for its light fare and specialty cocktails. The intimate space is perfect for spending a Havana night in the Crescent City.

Mona Lisa

Keep it casual (but still tasty) at Mona Lisa on Royal Street. This Italian eatery is filled with riffs on da Vinci’s famous portrait as well as Italian favorites and affordable wines.

Patula

Patula is a quaint café located on Royal Street in the French Quarter. Enjoy coffee and pastries from Ayu Bakehouse in the morning hours and nosh on Caesar salads, ham sandwiches, and other small plates as the day wears on. Retreat to their secluded courtyard on a busy day in the Quarter for a well-earned break.

Sylvain

Located just steps away from Jackson Square, Sylvain feels like a private club, only without the attitude of exclusivity. While you can peer in from the street, you enter through a long alleyway along the side that empties into a charming courtyard. The dining room just feels cool­, with great, moody lighting and a menu that somehow perfectly straddles classic Southern cuisine with a fun, modern twist.  Just looking for a fancy snack? Opt for the champagne and French fries. It doesn’t get much cooler than that.

Wakin’ Bakin’

This quaint café’ offers a host of healthy and hearty options to start your day. Fuel up properly with house specials like the Bayou Biscuit smothered in crawfish étouffée or the Love Bug - a yogurt bowl topped with fresh berries and fixings. No matter your craving, Wakin' Bakin' has you covered.

Zhang Bistro

This hotspot for East Asian cuisine opened in 2021 and has quickly become a local favorite. Like Manolito, it’s nearer to the French Market and Esplanade Avenue, keeping it a bit away from the major tourist haunts of the Vieux Carré.

Bar Tonique

Hidden off the beaten path in the French Quarter, Bar Tonique has long been a favorite of locals looking for quality cocktails without the pretense. This casual hang has a fun and varied menu of booze and offers special discounts for service industry workers.

The Black Penny

For all its flashy tourist spots, the French Quarter’s dive bars are often laid-back, local hotspots and the Black Penny is one of them. With a beer menu that’s over three pages long, a fun crowd of eclectic locals, and even a bingo night, it’s definitely worth a stop inside.

Cosimo’s

Cosimo’s is known across the city for its legendary bar food, including specialty personal pizzas, mozzarella sticks, cheese fries, wings, calzones, and sandwiches all made to order. On Tuesday nights in the spring, be sure to check out their crawfish boils.

Erin Rose

This quintessential Irish pub is best known for its frozen Irish coffee – a perfect treat for any time of year! Watch a football match and catch up with some friends in this homey French Quarter dive.

Fives

Fives in the heart of the French Quarter along Jackson Square has the added benefit of some of the best people-watching you can do while throwing back oysters served with marinated crab claws. Bonus points for their inclusion of the Columns Martini on their drink list–a vodka and gin martini that comes on a golden tray with a sidecar of pickled veggies, olives, and a lemon twist to dress it up to your heart’s content. 

Patrick’s Bar Vin

For a more upscale evening in the Quarter, this wine bar caters to the casual and knowledgeable wine enthusiast who desires a tasteful atmosphere where they can have a unique experience unlike any other in the French Quarter. Patrick's Bar Vin is the perfect gathering place; before going out or winding down after a night in the Vieux Carré.

The Gold Mine

This iconic local dive’s claim to fame is the Flaming Dr. Pepper shot, and its funky atmosphere and arcade cabinet-lined walls bring you straight back to the 1980s. Dance the night away, play some pool, and hang out.

The Will & The Way

The Will & The Way is a casual bar open late night. You won't want to miss their daily happy hour from 3-7 p.m.

Gimme

Gimme is home to all things pink, sparkly, and unique. This shop is full of accessories, cosmetics, jewelry, local artwork, and much more. For a one-of-a-kind souvenir, costume piece, or a quirky way to spice up your wardrobe, look no further than this French Quarter boutique.

UAL (United Apparel Liquidators)

This treasure trove of apparel offers high-fashion brands at affordable prices – around 70-90% off retail. With an abundance of shoes, clothes, and more, you may want to bring a second suitcase.

Swamp Rags

If nostalgia’s what you crave, Swamp Rags is your perfect match. This vintage shop curates t-shirts, décor, and other bits of ephemera from decades past. They often have great vintage local finds from the Saints, LSU, and even the 1984 World’s Fair.

Mortal Machine

This art gallery brings the best of Modern Folk/Outsider, Low-Brow, Pop Surrealism, New Contemporary, and Street Art to the Vieux Carré. They focus on mid-career and emerging artists who are both innovators and masters of their craft.

NOLA Rock Co.

With two locations in the French Quarter, NOLA Rock Co. sources hand-picked collections of jewelry, mineral specimens, art, and stone furniture. The extensive collection and price ranges have mean there’s something for everyone.

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Located inside the apothecary of America’s first licensed pharmacist, this unique museum contains documents and artifacts depicting the history of 19th-century medicine and healthcare. This space also hosts other events, including concerts and lectures.

Fritzel’s Jazz Pub

Since 1969, Fritzel’s has become a favorite spot for both musicians and jazz-lovers alike. Pop in any afternoon or evening to catch some world-class live music from local artists in this beautiful and historic French Quarter building.

Toulouse Theater

The Toulouse Theater is the French Quarter’s largest, artist-owned independent venue and features live shows and events of all kinds. Check out a show or stop by the full bar to grab a drink at the bar.

BMC Balcony Music Club

Located between Bourbon and Frenchman Streets, this venue showcases NOLA’s up-and-coming musical talent, mainly in the blues, jazz, and funk scenes.

The Art of Dr. Seuss

If you’re a fan of all things Seuss, this gallery features and sells pieces created and adapted from the art of Dr. Seuss himself. From “unorthodox” taxidermy to illustrations to bronze statues, there’s lots to find at this whimsical spot!

The Celestine

Located in the heart of the Quarter, The Celestine is just off Bourbon Street. But don't let that scare you, the vibe is all about relaxation—just step out into their private courtyard and enjoy the sounds of jazz wafting through the air from a distance.

One11 Hotel

One11 is a boutique hotel located on Canal near Audubon Aquarium. Guests praise its central location and balcony views of the Mississippi River.

Hotel St. Pierre 

Hotel St. Pierre is a historic boutique hotel situated in a restored French Colonial cottages dating back to the 1700s. Enjoy its quiet location and proximity to many bars and restaurants.

Homewood Suites New Orleans French Quarter

This hotel is great for those who want to stay near the action but away from the partying. Situated on the edge of the French Quarter, enjoy low rates with everything in walking distance from your room.