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New Orleans › Frenchmen Street › Bourbon Street Drinkery
Bourbon Street DrinkeryBWorth Trying
217 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130
· Live music bar, Catering food and drink supplier, Cocktail bar
· 4.6/5 Google (3221 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
High-energy Bourbon Street bar with talented live bands and strong beer/cocktail program, but expect tourist-area pricing and occasional service inconsistencies.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Bourbon Street Drinkery excels as a live music destination with strong Bourbon Street location appeal and solid beverage execution across cocktails and beer selection. However, inconsistent drink quality and variable service ranging from warm to brusque prevent higher performance, while isolated safety concerns and tourist-corridor pricing create friction. The grade reflects a fun, energetic bar experience that delivers on music and atmosphere but falls short of premium execution standards.
Restaurant Summary
Right on Bourbon, the room feels warm and bustling with a live band that often turns into a request-fueled singalong. Guests rave about friendly bartenders and a doorman who keeps the vibe upbeat and safe. One visitor summed it up: "Felt like a live jukebox and we did not want to leave." Expect party energy and crowds rather than quiet conversation, with brief lulls during band breaks. Drinks lean classic—hurricanes, pineapple-forward house specials, and a wide beer selection that includes local favorites when available. Execution is generally solid, though some nights drinks skew sweet or feel light for the price. Pricing matches the strip: think tourist-corridor premiums that some find worth it for the music, others do not. Service ranges from engaging and quick to curt when slammed, typical of Bourbon Street pace. Families may find the setting loud; this is not a kids venue. Daytime can be more relaxed, but there is no clear kids menu or family focus. If bringing teens, aim earlier hours and plan for music-first, bar-second expectations rather than a seated meal.
At a Glance
- High-energy live bands that take requests
- Deep beer list plus crowd-pleasing cocktails
- Tourist-strip pricing and no-price menu reports
- Service consistency varies from warm to brusque
- Isolated safety and payment-policy complaints from a few reviewers
What Sets It Apart
- request_driven_live_bands
- deep_beer_selection
- energetic_door_host
What People Love
- Electric band sets that read the room
- Friendly doorman presence that sets a welcoming tone
- Custom-mixed cocktails on request
- Plenty of seating with space to listen and hang
Points of Concern
- Pricing is high for the area with multiple $17-$20 cocktail mentions
- Reports of no tap water and bottle-only water policy
- Occasional rude or pushy bartender experiences
- Review patterns are consistent with polarized tourist-strip feedback; experiences may vary night to night
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$30-45 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Based on reviews, confirm drink prices before ordering; ask about beer samples; tip the band during request sets
Perfect For
- Bar-hopping on Bourbon with live music
- Group night out with singalong vibes
- Casual date that loves classic cocktails
- Beer lovers seeking local drafts
Location Insights
Area: Iconic nightlife corridor with heavy foot traffic, party vibe, and tourist-focused venues.
Safety: Busy, well-trafficked strip; late-night crowding with occasional rowdy behavior typical of Bourbon Street.
Nearby: Surrounded by bars, clubs, and restaurants; near hotels and key French Quarter attractions.
French QuarterThe French Quarter offers a bustling dining and social scene with a mix of casual bars, upscale restaurants, and live music venues. It is famous for its Creole and Cajun cuisine, jazz clubs, and festive street life, attracting a diverse crowd seeking entertainment and cultural experiences.
Bourbon StreetBourbon Street is the epicenter of New Orleans nightlife, known for its numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. It has a lively, sometimes rowdy atmosphere, popular for late-night entertainment and socializing.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–03:00
Tuesday12:00–03:00
Wednesday12:00–03:00
Thursday11:00–03:00
Friday11:00–03:00
Saturday11:00–03:00
Sunday11:00–03:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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