Seemor
New Orleans › Frenchmen Street › Old Absinthe House
Old Absinthe HouseC+Worth Trying
240 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70112
· Bar
· 4.4/5 Google (2337 reviews)
Iconic Bourbon Street bar for absinthe drips and classic cocktails with knowledgeable bartenders, but service inconsistency, bouncer issues, and cleanliness complaints mean experiences vary widely.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Old Absinthe House earns its reputation as a must-visit spirits destination through exceptional absinthe expertise and iconic French Quarter atmosphere that draw devoted return visitors across decades. However, inconsistent execution during peak hours, cleanliness concerns in facilities, and variable service attention prevent higher marks—the experience hinges heavily on timing and bartender assignment. Best visited during quieter hours by absinthe enthusiasts who prioritize spirits knowledge and historic ambiance over polished service consistency.
Restaurant Summary
Step off Bourbon Street and into a dim, timeworn room where bartenders talk you through green spirits and pour drips with a flourish. It feels historic and lively, equal parts museum and party. Some guests rave about patient guidance and tailored pours, while others describe being ignored during busy stretches or tangling with a stern door presence. One visitor summed it up: "a memorable stop for absinthe, but service depends on the hour." The drinks lean classic New Orleans with an absinthe backbone: think Sazerac with an Herbsaint rinse, violet-hued spritzes, and a deep bench of brands by the pour. It is a spirits-first spot rather than a cocktail theater; when it is on, bartenders steer you to flavor profiles and proper dilution. When it is slammed, technique can slip into quick pours that feel more tourist-bar reality than ritual. Prices match the Quarter—premium for specialty labels and the legend on the door. Families should look elsewhere: it is a true bar with no kids admitted and no food. If your crew includes adventurous adults, pick earlier hours for calmer service and cleaner restrooms; otherwise, choose a more laid-back option nearby.
At a Glance
- Deep absinthe selection with knowledgeable bartenders who guide choices
- Historic French Quarter atmosphere and classic New Orleans cocktails
- Service inconsistency and slow attention during busy periods
- Cleanliness complaints, especially bathrooms and dusty decor
- Bouncer and solicitation encounters reported; can affect overall experience
What Sets It Apart
- historic_absinthe_focus
- deep_absinthe_selection
- french_quarter_icon
What People Love
- Being walked through absinthe styles and strengths
- Feeling part of a New Orleans tradition
- Classic cocktails like Sazerac done right
- Eclectic, quirky decor and back-room escape from the crowd
Points of Concern
- Service can be inattentive when crowded; some guests report long waits or feeling ignored
- Bathroom cleanliness and dusty fixtures noted by multiple reviewers
- Security and street solicitors can create uncomfortable interactions at times
- Pricing is premium for the area, especially absinthe pours
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$30-$42 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with a lighter blanche like Kubler if you dislike strong anise
- Order a Sazerac ($15) if absinthe is not your thing but you want a local classic
Perfect For
- Absinthe-curious drinkers seeking guidance
- History-minded bar crawls in the Quarter
- Pre-show or pre-dinner cocktails
- Solo sippers at the bar earlier in the day
Location Insights
Area: Touristy, lively Bourbon Street frontage with constant foot traffic and nightlife energy.
Safety: Busy, well-patrolled tourist corridor; crowd-related hassles and occasional aggressive solicitors reported.
Nearby: Surrounded by bars, music venues, and historic attractions of the French Quarter.
French QuarterThe French Quarter offers a bustling dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, historic bars, and upscale restaurants. The social atmosphere is energetic and festive, often featuring live music and street performances, attracting visitors looking for authentic New Orleans culture and nightlife.
Bourbon StreetBourbon Street is famous for its lively bars, clubs, and late-night venues, drawing large crowds seeking entertainment and socializing in a party-centric environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–02:00
Tuesday09:00–02:00
Wednesday09:00–02:00
Thursday09:00–03:00
Friday09:00–04:00
Saturday09:00–04:00
Sunday09:00–03:00
View full analysis on Seemor →