The craziness of the French Quarter is an integral part of New Orleans’ charm, but sometimes an evening outside the historic district can be a welcome respite, especially when it comes without losing any of that unique Big Easy ambiance.

One such opportunity presents itself at the Bayou Bar, a cozy 40-seat establishment (with patio) nestled on the ground floor of the delightful Pontchartrain Hotel, located in the Lower Garden District.

Ranked second in Royal Caribbean’s “10 best and famous bars in New Orleans,” the casual tavern-style bar resonates with history and memories, including having served as a drinking haunt of both Frank Sinatra and Truman Capote. And NFL fans may get a kick out of learning that the local Saints football franchise is said to have been “christened” there in 1966.

Exposed wood, rod iron chandeliers, velvet couches and eclectic art give the space a warm, intimate vibe, ideal for sampling the extensive whiskey and beer list or selection of creative craft cocktails and inventive bites.

Of course, a local Sazerac cocktail is a favourite and sometimes offered with a twist, such as the quirky “Quackerac,” infused with Chinese spices and washed with duck fat.

Patrons will also discover a bourbon bonanza served by suitably savvy bartenders, plus local craft beers.

And what would a New Orleans’ bar be without live music? A rotating selection of talented local artists perform Wednesdays through Sundays, plus guests can saddle up to the house Steinway (piano) and do their own thing when the band isn’t playing.

The Bayou Bar is located at 2031 St. Charles Avenue in the Lower Garden District, and directly on the streetcar line for easy access from downtown or the Quarter. It can be entered from the street or through the lobby of the Pontchartrain Hotel and is open Sunday to Thursday from 5 to 11 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays 5 to midnight.

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

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