There’s something special about New Orleans cocktails that you just can’t find anywhere else. This is where the Sazerac was born, where they’ve been making Hurricanes since the 1940s, and where bartenders still take their time with a proper Ramos Gin Fizz because that’s just how it’s done.
The best part about classic New Orleans drinks is that you don’t need to book a flight to enjoy them. Most of these cocktails were created by bartenders who understood that great drinks should be approachable, not intimidating. Get yourself a few key ingredients, learn the stories behind the drinks, and you can bring that French Quarter spirit right to your own kitchen.
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Whiskey and Bourbon Cocktails
From classic Sazerac and Mint Julep recipes to a bourbon-based twist on the traditional Brandy Milk Punch, these New Orleans cocktails highlight the bold flavors of whiskey and bourbon. Whether you’re mixing up drinks for a Mardi Gras on the parade route or having a party at home, these bourbon cocktails bring just the right mix of tradition and fun. Don’t miss the Carnival Queen, a fresh and playful addition that fits right in with the city’s festive spirit.
Bourbon Milk Punch: Decadent and Delicious
Bourbon Milk Punch is a rich, creamy cocktail with deep roots in New Orleans' rich drinking culture. This classic cocktail combines bourbon, milk, vanilla, and a touch of nutmeg for a smooth, comforting drink that’s especially popular during the holidays and brunch. It’s a must-try for anyone exploring traditional New Orleans cocktails with a bourbon twist.
Sweet and Bubbly Carnival Queen Mardi Gras Cocktail
The Carnival Queen is a fun and colorful Mardi Gras cocktail that captures the festive spirit of New Orleans. Made with whiskey, fruit juice, and a splash of fizz, it’s a playful twist on traditional New Orleans drinks. This vibrant cocktail is perfect for parade days, parties, or any celebration that calls for bold flavor and a bit of sparkle.
Sazerac Cocktail
The Sazerac is one of the most iconic New Orleans cocktails, renowned for its strong, smooth flavor and rich history. Made with rye whiskey, a touch of absinthe, bitters, and a sugar cube, it’s a classic cocktail that’s both simple and sophisticated. This timeless drink is a staple for anyone looking to explore the rich tradition of New Orleans drinks.
Sweet Tea Mint Juleps
Sweet Tea Mint Juleps offer a Southern twist on the classic cocktail by blending two regional favorites into one refreshing drink. This recipe combines sweet tea, fresh mint, and bourbon for a smooth, easy-sipping cocktail that’s perfect for warm days and outdoor gatherings. It’s a fun variation that brings a bit of Southern charm to your collection of New Orleans-inspired drinks.
Vieux Carre Cocktail
The Vieux Carré is a classic New Orleans cocktail that reflects the city’s rich history and the elegance of the French Quarter. Made with rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it’s a complex and well-balanced drink that’s both strong and smooth. This cocktail is a must-try for fans of traditional New Orleans drinks that are rich in depth and character.
Sazerac
The Sazerac is a classic New Orleans cocktail known for its bold flavor and timeless appeal. This version stays true to tradition with rye whiskey, Peychaud’s bitters, a sugar cube, and a rinse of absinthe. It’s a smooth, spirit-forward drink that showcases the essence of New Orleans cocktail culture.
Best Mint Julep - How To Make A Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a timeless bourbon cocktail renowned for its association with Southern traditions and the Kentucky Derby. Made with fresh mint, sugar, crushed ice, and bourbon, it’s a refreshing drink that’s also a favorite in New Orleans during warm weather. This classic cocktail is simple to make and perfect for sipping at parades
Best Cherry Sazerac Recipe - How To Make Cherry Sazerac
The Cherry Sazerac is a modern take on one of the most iconic New Orleans cocktails. This twist on the classic Sazerac incorporates cherry liqueur, adding a slightly sweeter flavor while retaining the signature rye whiskey and absinthe elements. It’s a bold, flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys classic cocktails with a creative spin.
Rum Cocktails
When it comes to rum cocktails in New Orleans, the Hurricane is the star of the show. From a version that claims to follow Pat O’Brien’s original recipe to a lighter, skinny Hurricane that’s perfect for pacing yourself, these New Orleans cocktails deliver big flavor. Whether you’re throwing a party or just want a taste of the French Quarter, these classic rum drinks are always a crowd favorite.
Mardi Gras Blue Hurricane
The Mardi Gras Blue Hurricane is a vibrant twist on the classic New Orleans rum cocktail. Made with blue curaçao, light and dark rum, and tropical juices, it brings bold color and fruity flavor to any celebration. This fun and festive drink is perfect for Mardi Gras parties or anyone looking to add a playful spin to traditional New Orleans cocktails.
The Original Pat O'Brien's Hurricane Cocktail
Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane is one of the most iconic rum cocktails to come out of New Orleans. This recipe stays close to the original, combining dark rum, passion fruit, and citrus juices for a bold, sweet-tart flavor that defines the classic Hurricane. It’s a must-try for anyone exploring authentic New Orleans cocktails and Mardi Gras-inspired drinks.
Skinny Hurricane Cocktail
The Skinny Hurricane is a lighter take on the classic New Orleans rum cocktail, offering all the tropical flavor with fewer calories. Made with light rum, fresh citrus juice, and a hint of natural sweetener, it’s a refreshing option for those seeking to enjoy New Orleans drinks without the added sugar. This cocktail is perfect for parties, warm days, or anyone craving a healthier spin on a Mardi Gras favorite.
Hurricane Cocktail
This Hurricane cocktail recipe brings a taste of New Orleans right to your glass, featuring a blend of light and dark rum, passion fruit juice, and citrus. It’s a bold and fruity drink that captures the spirit of classic New Orleans cocktails, making it perfect for Mardi Gras or any other festive occasion. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a go-to rum cocktail for fans of tropical drinks.
Best Strawberry Daiquiri Recipe - How to Make Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
The Strawberry Daiquiri is a frozen rum cocktail that’s both refreshing and full of fruity flavor. Made with fresh strawberries, rum, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a perfect addition to any summer party or New Orleans-inspired gathering. This easy-to-make drink is a crowd-pleaser and a fun twist on classic rum cocktails.
BIG BATCH HURRICANE COCKTAIL RECIPE FOR MARDI GRAS
This Big Batch Hurricane recipe is perfect for serving classic New Orleans cocktails to a crowd. Featuring a mix of rum, fruit juices, and grenadine, it’s a festive and flavorful drink that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Ideal for Mardi Gras parties, this rum cocktail delivers the bold taste of New Orleans in every glass.
Classic Rum Daiquiri Cocktail | New Orleans
New Orleans daiquiris are a staple of the city’s vibrant cocktail scene, renowned for their icy texture, bold flavors, and convenient grab-and-go nature. Whether served frozen from a drive-thru or crafted in a bar, these rum cocktails come in a wide variety of flavors, from classic strawberry to innovative, locally inspired creations. They’re a fun, laid-back way to experience the spirit of New Orleans cocktails.
New Orleans Signature Drink Recipe: Hurricane - New Orleans & Company
The Hurricane is one of the most iconic New Orleans cocktails, created at Pat O’Brien’s bar in the French Quarter. Made with rum, passion fruit, and citrus juices, this bold and fruity drink captures the festive spirit of the city. It’s a must-try rum cocktail for anyone looking to experience authentic New Orleans flavors.
Champagne and Wine Cocktails
When it comes to New Orleans cocktails, champagne, and wine-based drinks bring a touch of elegance to the city’s bold flavor traditions. Classics like the French 75 offer a sparkling blend of gin, lemon, and champagne that’s perfect for brunch or a festive evening out. Mimosas are a staple at New Orleans brunch spots, often served with a local twist using fresh juices or seasonal fruit. Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or enjoying a relaxed weekend, these bubbly cocktails add a refreshing and refined option to the lineup of New Orleans drinks.
Stormy Morning
The Stormy Morning is a unique champagne cocktail that combines sparkling wine with crème de cassis and a touch of absinthe for a bold, slightly mysterious flavor. This drink offers a creative twist on classic New Orleans cocktails, balancing sweetness with a hint of herbal depth. It’s an elegant choice for brunch, evening gatherings, or anyone looking to explore wine-based New Orleans drinks.
Summer Strawberry Cooler
The Summer Strawberry Cooler is a light and refreshing wine cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather and casual gatherings. Made with fresh strawberries, white wine, and a hint of citrus, it’s a simple yet flavorful drink that pairs perfectly with New Orleans-style summer cocktails. This cooler is an easy way to enjoy fruit-forward flavors with a crisp, bubbly finish.
French 75 Cocktail Recipe
The French 75 is a classic champagne cocktail that combines gin, lemon juice, and sparkling wine for a crisp and refreshing drink. Popular in New Orleans, especially during brunch or special occasions, it adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering. This timeless cocktail is a must-try for fans of bubbly New Orleans drinks with a citrusy kick.
Hurricane Mimosas
Hurricane Mimosas blend two New Orleans cocktail favorites into one fun and flavorful drink. This recipe combines the fruity punch of a Hurricane with the bubbly brightness of a classic mimosa, making it perfect for brunch or Mardi Gras celebrations. It’s a festive twist on traditional New Orleans drinks that’s both easy to make and full of bold flavor.
Vodka Cocktails
Vodka cocktails are a staple in New Orleans, especially when it comes to bold, flavorful drinks like the Bloody Mary. Whether you’re a fan of the classic version or looking for creative twists, this list of New Orleans vodka cocktails has something for every taste. Perfect for brunch, parties, or anytime you want a refreshing drink with a kick.
Homemade Bloody Mary Mix Recipe
This homemade Bloody Mary mix is a flavorful base for one of the most popular vodka cocktails in New Orleans. Made with tomato juice, fresh citrus, and a blend of spices, it’s perfect for customizing your own bold and savory Bloody Mary. Ideal for brunch or weekend gatherings, it brings a classic New Orleans cocktail to life with fresh, homemade flavor.
Bloody Mary Mix
This easy Bloody Mary mix recipe is perfect for crafting one of the most beloved vodka cocktails in New Orleans. With a balanced blend of tomato juice, lemon, Worcestershire, and spices, it delivers a bold, savory flavor that’s ideal for brunch or entertaining. It’s a simple way to enjoy a classic New Orleans Bloody Mary at home.
Spicy Bloody Mary Mix
This Spicy Bloody Mary Mix is a bold twist on the classic New Orleans vodka cocktail, perfect for those who like a little heat. Featuring tomato juice, horseradish, hot sauce, and savory seasonings, it delivers a rich, zesty flavor that’s great for brunch or weekend gatherings. It’s a must-try for fans of spicy New Orleans cocktails.
25 Moscow Mule Recipes
These Moscow Mule variations add a creative twist to one of the most popular vodka cocktails, making them perfect for any New Orleans-inspired gathering. With options featuring fresh fruit, herbs, and flavored vodkas, each recipe adds a unique twist to the classic combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime. These fun and refreshing cocktails are a great way to explore new takes on classic New Orleans drinks.
Summer Drink Series: Southern Porch Sipper
The Southern Porch Sipper is a refreshing vodka cocktail made with Absolut Apeach, perfect for warm New Orleans afternoons. Blended with iced tea and citrus flavors, it’s a light, fruity drink that’s perfect for enjoying on the porch or at a casual gathering. This cocktail offers a sweet Southern twist on traditional New Orleans vodka drinks.
Cajun Bloody Mary
The Cajun Bloody Mary is a flavorful New Orleans cocktail that adds a kick with Cajun spices and hot sauce. Blended with vodka, tomato juice, and bold seasonings, it delivers a spicy, savory kick that’s perfect for brunch or anytime you want a drink with Southern flair. This cocktail is an excellent choice for fans of New Orleans-style vodka drinks with a bold twist.
Creole Bloody Mary
The Creole Bloody Mary is a spicy New Orleans cocktail that adds a regional twist to the classic vodka-based drink. Made with local seasonings and garnished with bold extras like pickled okra and shrimp, it captures the rich, savory flavor New Orleans is known for. This cocktail is a favorite at brunch and a great way to experience authentic Creole flair in a glass.
Gin Cocktails
Even if you’re not usually a gin fan, New Orleans gin cocktails like the classic Gin Fizz might just change your mind. Known for their light, frothy texture and citrusy flavor, these drinks are refreshing and full of character. Whether you’re trying a traditional Ramos Gin Fizz or a modern twist, these cocktails are a staple of the New Orleans drink scene and worth a second look.
New Orleans Inspired Cocktail Recipe; Blackberry Gin Soda - Farmhouse 1820
This New Orleans-inspired Gin Fizz recipe captures the refreshing, citrus-forward taste of one of the city’s most iconic cocktails, made with gin. Made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda, it’s a light and bubbly drink perfect for warm afternoons or festive gatherings. It’s a great introduction to classic New Orleans gin cocktails, even for those who don’t typically drink gin.
Learn How to Make a Classic New Orleans Fizz Cocktail
The New Orleans Fizz, also known as the Ramos Gin Fizz, is a classic gin cocktail that’s famous for its creamy texture and bright citrus flavor. Made with gin, lemon and lime juice, egg white, cream, and a splash of soda water, it’s a signature drink of New Orleans cocktail culture. This elegant and frothy cocktail is a must-try for anyone exploring traditional gin drinks with a Southern twist.
Sloe Gin Fizz Cocktail
The Sloe Gin Fizz is a fruity and refreshing variation of the classic gin cocktail, made with sloe gin, lemon juice, and club soda. With its vibrant color and slightly sweet flavor, it’s a fun twist on traditional New Orleans gin cocktails. This easy-to-make drink is perfect for brunch, parties, or anyone seeking a lighter, bubbly cocktail.
Ramos Gin Fizz
The Ramos Gin Fizz is one of the most iconic gin cocktails to emerge from New Orleans, renowned for its silky texture and citrusy flavor. Created in the late 1800s, this classic drink blends gin, lemon, lime, egg white, cream, and orange flower water for a smooth, frothy finish. It remains a staple of New Orleans cocktail history and a must-try for gin lovers.
Brandy Cocktails
Brandy Milk Punch is a classic New Orleans cocktail that has long been a favorite at brunch and holiday gatherings. Rich, creamy, and lightly spiced, it’s a comforting drink with deep roots in the city’s cocktail tradition. From traditional recipes to creative variations, these brandy cocktails showcase just how versatile and delicious this New Orleans favorite can be.
Cafe Brulot Diabolique - New Orleans Cocktails
Café Brûlot Diabolique is a dramatic New Orleans cocktail that combines brandy, coffee, citrus, and spices, often served flaming tableside. This bold and aromatic drink dates back to the 1890s and is a unique blend of after-dinner coffee and classic brandy cocktail. It’s a must-try for those interested in the theatrical and flavorful side of New Orleans cocktail traditions.
Brandy Milk Punch - Classic New Orleans Cocktail
This classic New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch recipe features a smooth blend of brandy, milk, powdered sugar, and nutmeg, resulting in a rich, velvety drink. Traditionally served during brunch or the holidays, it’s a beloved cocktail that captures the cozy, indulgent side of New Orleans drinking culture. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a must-try for fans of classic brandy cocktails.
New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch
This New Orleans Brandy Milk Punch recipe is a classic blend of brandy, milk, vanilla, and nutmeg, perfect for brunch or holiday celebrations. Creamy and lightly spiced, it’s a traditional New Orleans cocktail that’s both simple to make and full of comfort. This version remains faithful to the original, making it a great introduction to brandy-based New Orleans cocktails.
Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a smooth and creamy brandy cocktail that combines brandy, crème de cacao, and cream to create a rich, dessert-like drink. While not originally from New Orleans, its indulgent flavor fits right in with the city’s love for classic, comforting cocktails. It’s an excellent choice for fans of Brandy Milk Punch looking to try another creamy, brandy-based favorite.
Mardi Gras Cocktails
Mardi Gras cocktails are all about fun, flavor, and festive flair, inspired by the colors and sweetness of king cake, as well as the spirit of celebration. From colorful layered drinks to cocktails featuring cinnamon, vanilla, and fruity notes, these recipes bring the energy of Mardi Gras straight to your glass. Whether you’re hosting a party or just getting into the carnival mood, these New Orleans-inspired drinks are perfect for the occasion.
Mardi Gras Martini Recipe
The Mardi Gras Martini is a vibrant and festive cocktail inspired by the traditional colors of New Orleans' Carnival season: purple, green, and gold. Made with vodka, fruity liqueurs, and a touch of sweetness, it’s a vibrant drink that looks as fun as it tastes. This martini is perfect for Mardi Gras parties or any celebration that calls for a bold and playful cocktail.
Mardi Gras Punch Recipe
This Mardi Gras Punch is a fun and easy party drink that captures the vibrant spirit of New Orleans celebrations. Made with a mix of fruit juices and soda, and optionally enhanced with a splash of alcohol, it’s a colorful and crowd-pleasing cocktail for any Mardi Gras gathering. Perfect for serving in big batches, this punch brings a festive touch to your carnival drink lineup.
King Cake Jello Shots
King Cake Jello Shots are a playful and colorful take on Mardi Gras cocktails, inspired by the traditional New Orleans dessert. Layered in purple, green, and gold with sweet and fruity flavors, these shots are perfect for parties and carnival celebrations. They’re a fun way to serve festive cocktails that double as a sweet treat.
National Margarita Day and Mardi Gras-Ritas
Mardi Gras Ritas are festive margaritas inspired by the vibrant colors and flavors of New Orleans carnival season. Made with tequila, citrus juice, and colorful sugar rims, these cocktails bring a fun twist to the classic margarita. They’re perfect for Mardi Gras parties or adding a bold, celebratory touch to your cocktail menu.
King Cake Shots
King Cake Shots are sweet, cinnamon-flavored Mardi Gras cocktails that capture the essence of the traditional New Orleans dessert in a fun, festive form. Made with cinnamon whiskey, vanilla vodka, and Irish cream, these layered shots are perfect for celebrating carnival season. They’re an easy and playful way to serve up the flavors of king cake in a party-ready drink.
King Cake Cocktail
The King Cake Cocktail is a festive Mardi Gras drink that blends sweet and spiced flavors inspired by the classic New Orleans dessert. Made with ingredients like cinnamon schnapps, vanilla vodka, and colorful sugar rims, it brings the spirit of king cake into every sip. This cocktail is a fun and flavorful addition to any Mardi Gras celebration.
King Cake Rum Shake
The King Cake Rum Shake is a rich and creamy Mardi Gras cocktail that turns the flavors of the traditional New Orleans king cake into a decadent drink. Blended with spiced rum, ice cream, and cinnamon, it’s perfect as a festive dessert cocktail. This shake is a fun and indulgent way to enjoy the sweet side of Mardi Gras.
Celebrating Mardi Gras {King Cake Cocktails}
These King Cake Cocktails are festive Mardi Gras drinks that capture the sweet and spicy flavors of the iconic New Orleans dessert. Made with cinnamon liqueur, vanilla vodka, and colorful sugar rims, they’re as fun to look at as they are to sip. Perfect for parties and parades, these cocktails bring an authentic taste of carnival season to your glass.
King Cake Jello Shots
These King Cake Jello Shots are a fun and colorful way to celebrate Mardi Gras, inspired by the traditional New Orleans dessert. Layered in purple, green, and gold, and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, they’re a festive twist on classic party cocktails. Perfect for Mardi Gras gatherings, these shots are both playful and packed with flavor.
Best King Cake Shots Recipe - How to Make King Cake Shots
King Cake Shots from Delish are a festive and flavorful Mardi Gras cocktail inspired by the iconic New Orleans dessert. Made with cinnamon whiskey, Irish cream, and vanilla vodka, these sweet and creamy shots are topped with colorful sugar for an authentic carnival feel. They’re perfect for adding fun and flair to any Mardi Gras celebration.
Mardi Gras Jello Shots
These Mardi Gras Jell-O Shots are a bright and playful cocktail, perfect for celebrating New Orleans' Carnival season. Layered in the traditional purple, green, and gold colors, they’re made with fruity gelatin and vodka for a fun party treat. Easy to make and great for entertaining, they add a festive touch to any Mardi Gras gathering.
King Cake Martini
The King Cake Martini is a sweet and spiced Mardi Gras cocktail that brings the flavors of the classic New Orleans dessert into a festive drink. Made with cinnamon and vanilla liqueurs, this martini is topped with a colorful sugar rim that reflects the traditional colors of purple, green, and gold. It’s a fun and flavorful choice for any Mardi Gras celebration or themed party.
January Cocktail: King Cake Milk Punch! - Milk Punch Media
The King Cake Milk Punch is a festive Mardi Gras cocktail that combines the creamy richness of traditional milk punch with the sweet, spiced flavors of king cake. Made with cinnamon, vanilla, and a splash of brandy or bourbon, it captures the essence of New Orleans carnival season in every sip. This cocktail is perfect for Mardi Gras brunches or as a fun dessert-style drink.
More New Orleans Cocktails
There are plenty of cocktails that were either born in New Orleans or inspired by its rich cocktail culture. Drinks like the Grasshopper, which originated in the French Quarter, showcase the city’s love for creamy, flavorful creations. From historic recipes to modern twists, these New Orleans cocktails reflect the spirit, creativity, and charm that make the city’s drink scene one of a kind.
Other New Orleans Cocktails
The Absinthe Frappe: New Orleans Cocktail
The Absinthe Frappé is a classic New Orleans cocktail renowned for its cool, herbal flavor and refreshing presentation with crushed ice. Blending absinthe with simple syrup and a splash of soda water, this cocktail offers a bold yet balanced taste that’s both historic and unique. It’s a must-try for fans of traditional New Orleans drinks with a touch of vintage charm.
Pimms Cup
The Pimm’s Cup is a refreshing New Orleans cocktail that became popular at the historic Napoleon House. Made with Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade, and a splash of lemon-lime soda, it’s a light and citrusy drink perfect for warm afternoons. This classic cocktail is a local favorite and a must-try for anyone exploring the lighter side of New Orleans drinks.
Absinthe Frappe Cocktail
The Absinthe Frappé is a historic New Orleans cocktail that dates back to the 1800s and was a favorite at the Old Absinthe House. Made with absinthe, simple syrup, and mint, it's served over crushed ice and is a refreshing and aromatic drink with a distinct herbal flavor. This classic cocktail reflects the rich traditions and bold character of New Orleans mixology.
Roffignac
The Roffignac is a lesser-known but historic New Orleans cocktail traditionally made with rye whiskey and raspberry shrub, topped with soda water for a crisp, fruity finish. This version swaps the whiskey for cognac, adding a smoother, more rounded flavor to the drink. It’s a refreshing and slightly tangy option for anyone looking to explore unique takes on classic New Orleans cocktails.
Grasshopper
The Grasshopper is a sweet and creamy New Orleans cocktail made with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream. Created in the French Quarter, this minty dessert drink is smooth, indulgent, and perfect for after dinner. It’s a fun and flavorful choice for anyone looking to explore classic cocktails with a New Orleans twist.
New Orleans Cocktail Books
If you’re feeling inspired to dive deeper into the world of New Orleans cocktails, there are plenty of great cocktail books that explore the city’s rich drinking history and iconic recipes. From classic guides to modern mixology collections, these books offer step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and the stories behind some of the most famous drinks. Whether you’re a home bartender or a cocktail enthusiast, adding one or two to your shelf is a great way to bring more New Orleans flavor to your creations.
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As someone who calls New Orleans home, I enjoy helping others discover what makes this city so unique and special. Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, or just a change of pace, I can help you plan a trip that feels effortless and unforgettable. Email me at cara@magicaldestinationstravel.com or visit this page to start planning your New Orleans getaway.

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