Someone once said, “Ask not what wine has done for you, but rather what you’re willing to do for wine.” And we couldn’t agree more.
One thing about New Orleans: you'll never be disappointed by the cocktail scene and the extensive bar programs offered throughout the city. From the classics to mocktails for every type of sipper, plus restaurants with strong wine programs to pair with all sorts of cuisine, you’re guaranteed to have your thirst quenched.
But let us tell you, this list is a game-changer, y’all! It's for those seeking a standout wine experience where you can savor a glass or two, immerse yourself in a tasting, enjoy a flight, or discover the perfect bottle to stash in your carry-on for a celebratory toast with your besties once you're back home.
Picture this: perhaps you fancy enjoying your tasting outdoors or ordering some delectable small plates to accompany your wine journey. The options are truly boundless here! Dive into the list below to discover some stellar picks, or venture into our full list for an even broader array of choices!
Patron Saint
Patron Saint, situated in the Lower Garden District, stands as a beloved neighborhood wine shop and bar. Committed to offering only what they themselves enjoy drinking, it embodies the golden rule of treating others as you wish to be treated. Guests are invited to drop in for a glass of wine or to snag a bottle to enjoy at home, with hours extending throughout the day and night. For those seeking a deeper connection to their wine experience, joining the Patron Saint Wine Club is an enticing option. And if that weren't enough, their sibling establishment, St. Pizza, located right next door, will captivate you with their tantalizing charred pepperoni pizzas and finger-licking-good sea salt chocolate chip cookies. It's a culinary match made in heaven!
Bar Pomona
Imagine the perfect fusion of a wine bar and a jam shop – that's Bar Pomona for you! Just hearing about it should be enough to entice you to this delightful space. Picture this: shelves lined with an array of natural and small-production wines hailing from Italy, South America, California, and beyond! And the magic doesn't stop there. Pair your selections with their tantalizing array of delicious foods and sweets. From a delightful Crudité Plate to mouthwatering Dill Meatballs and the indulgent Salame Al Cioccolato, your taste buds are in for a treat at Bar Pomona!
Bacchanal Wine
Nestled in the serene outskirts of the Bywater neighborhood, this quaint little wine shop exudes the warmth and charm that define the heart of New Orleans. Whether you're stopping by for a quick purchase or venturing out to the back, where live music awaits, you'll instantly feel at home, as if you're savoring wine in the cozy abode of your newfound best friend in New Orleans. That's just the kind of welcoming vibe it exudes!
Copper Vine
In the heart of New Orleans' bustling Downtown Business District lies a charming gastropub known for its delightful Southern charm. Here, guests can unwind with a glass of wine and indulge in a delectable dining experience.
Orleans Grapevine Bar & Bistro
Exuding an air of casual refinement, Orleans Grapevine stands as a beacon of fine dining without pretension. Nestled within a prestigious two-story building constructed in 1808, it holds a storied past, having once been home to the city's very first Creole restaurant. Today, it continues to honor that legacy with its impeccable cuisine and inviting atmosphere, inviting guests to savor a dining experience steeped in history and flavor, minus all the fuss.
The Delachaise
The Delachaise, with its evocative name, exudes an aura of romance and sophistication. Renowned for its extensive wine selection, especially wines by the glass, this beloved local date-night destination also boasts a thoughtfully curated array of cocktails, beers, and delectable fare such as moules frites and other house-made delights.
Bouligny Tavern
Bouligny Tavern, conceived by Chef John Harris of Lilette Restaurant, seamlessly combines the allure of a wine bar, cocktail lounge, and small-plate dining destination. Embracing the sleek aesthetics of Mid-Century modern design, the ambiance at Bouligny Tavern is both sophisticated and inviting. Here, guests can expect a refined yet approachable menu of small plates, thoughtfully paired with an extensive selection of wines, with a particular focus on French and Italian varietals.
Effervescence
Located at the edge of the French Quarter on North Rampart, Effervescence beckons as a sparkling wine lounge and restaurant, brimming with the vivacious spirit of New Orleans and the French Quarter. Step inside and immerse yourself in a world of bubbles, flights, cocktails, and delectable bites! And guess what? They even offer a fabulous Sunday brunch experience, y'all! Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in the effervescent charm of this delightful establishment.
Oak Wine Bar
Oak, just steps away from the streetcar, emerges as a sophisticated and alluring bar and eatery, boasting a chic and welcoming ambiance. It seamlessly blends upscale, cosmopolitan flair with New Orleans' signature laissez-faire attitude. Step into Oak and be greeted by its spacious, beautifully lit interior, adorned with artful touches that set the stage for an unforgettable experience! And bonus points if you’re drinking companion is more into beer–their sibling bar Ale sits just next door with an adjoining patio.
Pluck Wine Bar
Pluck beckons both casual wine enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs alike to its wine bar and restaurant. With an obsessively curated wine list and a complementary food menu, Pluck sets the stage for engaging conversations and delightful discoveries. Here, there's truly no wrong way to enjoy wine, making every sip a journey of exploration and enjoyment.
Patrick’s Bar Vin
Situated within the Hotel Mazarin in the heart of the French Quarter, Patrick's Bar Vin beckons with its inviting ambiance and attentive service. The team here possesses a keen ability to read the room, ensuring that the mood is effortlessly acknowledged even before patrons utter a word. Whether you're seeking a touch of romance, a gathering of ladies who lunch, or simply a welcoming space to unwind, Patrick's Bar Vin caters to all occasions. Here, the focus is on selecting the perfect bottle to complement the desired atmosphere, with a wine list that spans the globe and offers a myriad of options beyond just wine. And for those looking to venture beyond the classics, don't miss out on their signature drinks, crafted to perfection for an unforgettable experience.
Swirl Wines
Welcome to Swirl Wine Bar, your go-to neighborhood spot offering a diverse selection of specialty wines. Whether you're popping in for a glass or eager to explore new flavors through their wine tastings and events, Swirl promises a welcoming atmosphere and an unforgettable experience. Their carefully curated wine selection is both affordable and diverse, ensuring that there's something for every palate to enjoy.
Bayou Wine Garden
Welcome to the ultimate Mid-City destination where the charm of a beer garden meets the elegance of a wine garden! Picture this: wine on tap, inviting outdoor seating, and a delightful array of mouthwatering snacks to share amongst friends. But wait, there's more! During crawfish season, things can get a little "cray" if you catch our drift. So come on over and join in the fun at this lively spot where good times and great wines flow freely!
Saint-Germain
Welcome to Saint-Germain, a charming bistro and wine bar nestled in the heart of Bywater, where Parisian flair meets New Orleans charm. While the restaurant inside features a multicourse prix-fixe menu, for those looking for natural wines and snacks, you can post up at the wine bar inside or in their delightful courtyard out back. Indulge in their ever-changing menu featuring daily creations and specialties straight from the culinary heart of Paris. As you explore their tantalizing offerings, don't forget to peruse the extensive list of wines and spirits, carefully selected to complement the many savory small plates perfectly.
The Independent Caveau NOLA
At The Independent Caveau NOLA, patrons can indulge in fine wines and specialty foods, creating a unique tasting experience. The space seamlessly blends a retail shop ambiance with a funky bar atmosphere, promising a one-of-a-kind journey for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Wine Institute of New Orleans
The Wine Institute of New Orleans (W.I.N.O.) stands as an innovative wine bar, offering patrons a distinctive experience centered around wine tasting, education, and exploration. Visitors to W.I.N.O. can immerse themselves in the eclectic and diverse selection of wines available for browsing and tasting.
The Tell Me Bar
The Tell Me Bar, nestled in the Lower Garden District, is a natural wine bar beloved for its intimate and casual ambiance. With a spacious patio and a charming tropical mid-century vibe, it serves as a welcoming gathering spot for all. Here, patrons come together to engage in conversations not only about wine but also about life beyond, fostering a vibrant community centered around shared experiences and discoveries.
Really Really Nice Wines
When the owners of Really Really Nice Wines embarked on their journey, their goal was clear: to establish a neighborhood shop and bar focused on natural wines that was welcoming to all and radiated positive vibes. Their carefully curated selection of wines is a testament to their deep appreciation and gratitude for both the winemakers and the wine community. At Really Really Nice Wines, patrons can browse for home, enjoy a drink at the bar, and immerse themselves in the rhythm of live tunes, creating a truly memorable experience.
Faubourg Wines
Nestled in the vibrant Bywater neighborhood, this wine shop isn't just a showcase for an exceptional selection of wines. It's a treasure trove boasting specialty spirits, canned beers sourced from local breweries, gourmet tinned seafood, cheeses, and even an inviting in-house wine bar. Here, you can shop for later indulgence or unwind with a drink right away. Embracing community spirit, the shop encourages patrons to mingle with locals and discover new favorites together. And for those eager to deepen their wine knowledge, Wednesday nights are a must, as the shop hosts engaging wine tastings, providing the perfect opportunity to expand your palate and forge new connections.