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R Bar

New Orleans, United States

This bar has a great local vibe – people often spill onto the street outside drinking and chatting in the sunshine. Back inside, it’s all classical American in style – there’s a pool table and jukebox – so you can live out your dive bar dream.

Address

1431 Royal Street 70116

+1 504 948 7499 Go to website

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Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar

New Orleans, United States

Lafitte’s claims to be the oldest bar in America, so we’re justifying this drink under “historical significance”. Although located on Bourbon Street (which is, as a rule, to be avoided at all costs), this bar is worth a visit. The duelling pianos make for a musical spectacle.

Address

941 Bourbon Street 70116

+1 504 593 9761 Go to website

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Frenchmen Street

New Orleans, United States

Now that tourists have taken over Bourbon Street, NOLA natives have relocated across town to drink. Get your fix of authentic Louisiana on Frenchmen Street instead, which is full of music venues and bars. Follow your ears and have a drink wherever the music takes you. If you’re spoiled for choice, we like D.B.A., The Spotted Cat and Blue Nile the best.

Address

Frenchmen Street

N/A

Go to website

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Cane and Table

New Orleans, United States

Cane & Table is all exposed brick and chandeliers, making it a great place to go for a pre-dinner drink or two. Their cocktails are some of the best in the city – historically-themed with influences ranging from the Caribbean to London. We love the Barbadian Gin Punch, made from fresh coconut water and the Banana Manhattan.

Address

1113 Decatur Street 70116

+5 045 811 112 Go to website

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Blue Nile

New Orleans, United States

Frenchmen Street is one of the best places to go for a night out in New Orleans. It’s less touristy than Bourbon Street, which has a bit of a Magaluf vibe about it. Live music, playing in every bar, spills out onto the streets. Head to hotspot Blue Nile for local funk, blues and soul performances and, on the weekends, bounce nights.

Address

532 Frenchmen Street 70116

+1 504 948 2583 Go to website

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Vaughan’s Lounge

New Orleans, United States

To get inside this elusive Bywater jazz and blues joint, brimming with New Orleans character, you must head to the side door and ring the buzzer. Inside you’ll find live music and cheap drinks, with regular weekly performances from famous jazz trumpeter Kermit Ruffins, all set inside a distinctly New Orleans shotgun house.

Address

4229 Dauphine Street 70117

+1 504 947 5562

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Mimi’s in the Marigny

New Orleans, United States

With live music, pool tables and a small-plate menu served into the wee hours, Mimi’s is the go-to place for late night fun. With a bit of an intimate house party feel, this hip neighbourhood bar is the perfect place to meet eccentric locals.

Address

2601 Royal Street 70117

+1 504 872 9868 Go to website

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Maple Leaf Bar

New Orleans, United States

Every night of the week this live-music venue invites local musicians and touring performers to its stage. With jazz, rock, blues, R&B and funk, Maple Leaf Bar is the perfect place to groove with local cool cats and meet new people. Frequent performers include the Rebirth Brass Band, Papa Grows Funk, as well as the legendary Henry Butler.

Address

8316 Oak Street 70118

+1 504 866 9359 Go to website

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New Orleans, United States

A solid spot to catch the Saints game and shoot some pool, Bud Rips is a stalwart of low-key NOLA nightlife. Order an inexpensive bottle of red and dance the night away under the original pressed-tin ceiling.

Address

900 Piety Street LA 70117

+1 504 945 5762