New Orleans is a city that’s known for raising spirits. The festive and creative cocktail culture is a defining part of what makes the Crescent City so special – and a unique New Orleans drink will make your  wedding an iconic event!

So many well-known cocktails were invented in New Orleans that it can be tough to choose which drink deserves a spot on your guest list. To help you find the perfect cocktail for your wedding in New Orleans, here’s some preferred picks for your big day.

The Hurricane

Refreshingly bold and glowing with character, the Hurricane is a cheery addition to any wedding celebration. Original New Orleans Cocktails to Serve at Your Wedding

Paul Broussard
Pat O' Brien's Hurricane Recipe

This delightfully sweet and vibrant cocktail was born from New Orleans innovation in the 1940’s – Benson “Pat” O’Brien, the legend behind the French Quarter’s beloved Pat O’Brien’s bar, invented the drink when a wartime surplus of rum made other liquor sales hard to come by.

The bar served a hearty mix of fresh fruit juice, passion fruit syrup, and rum in a hurricane lamp-shaped glass. It was an instant hit and is still a popular order in the Quarter today.

The Hurricane’s bright, vibrant color is the perfect match for your festive wedding reception. And with the perfect mix of sweet and tart, it’s sure to be a hit!

How It’s Made: Dark rum, passion fruit syrup, fresh lemon juice or lime juice, garnished with orange slice and a cherry.
 

The Sazerac

Pleasantly smooth with old-fashioned charm, the Sazerac is a classic cocktail that your guests will love.

Rebecca Todd
The Sazerac

The original story of the Sazerac has taken some twists and turns over the years – some call it America’s first cocktail, many legends say it was made in Antoine Peychaud’s famous pharmacy in the French Quarter, but everyone agrees that the drink is a true New Orleans classic.

Since the 1800’s, the Sazerac has been the go-to cocktail for special New Orleans occasions. It’s an ideal choice for your wedding, adding plenty of grandeur  to your big day.

It’s eye-catching, tasteful, and instantly iconic – everything a New Orleans celebration should be!

How It’s Made: Absinthe, simple syrup, Peychaud's Bitters, rye whiskey.
 

Ramos Gin Fizz

Rich, beautiful, and marvelously refreshing, the Ramos Gin Fizz is one of New Orleans’ hidden cocktail gems.

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Ramos Gin Fizz

The recipe was created in New Orleans and has been a staple of the Crescent City. This delicious concoction is a must-try for any cocktail connoisseur and makes a wonderful option for your wedding day celebration.

While the initial mixture of gin with cream and egg whites might seem bizarre, Henry C. Ramos knew he was onto something when he concocted this signature drink in 1888. New Orleans fell in love with his creation and still serves it present day.

The cocktail’s great taste has earned it a devout following - former Louisiana Governor Huey Long is one of the cocktail’s most famous fans. He used to bring a New Orleans bartender along on trips to New York because he couldn’t do without this delicious beverage!

The Ramos Gin Fizz takes a bit of finesse to make, but it is well worth the effort. And it adds an elegant New Orleans charm that your wedding reception deserves!

How It’s Made: Gin, heavy cream, lemon juice, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, orange flower water.
 

French 75

It’s no secret that New Orleans is a city filled with French influence. In addition to beloved beignets, the world-renowned French Quarter, and much more, the Crescent City has also clung closely to an iconic cocktail with European roots: the French 75. Made with champagne, gin (or cognac) and a hint of lemon this cocktail is simple, yet satisfying. 

For an only-in-New-Orleans wedding reception, these iconic cocktails offer your guests a taste of the local flavor that New Orleans is so well known for  - and be sure to check out all the incredible New Orleans wedding professionals s that will make your big day special!  

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