Best Bars in America Season 1 Episode 9 New Orleans
- TV-14
- August 20, 2014
- 42 min
In the ninth episode of the first season of Best Bars in America, the hosts, Jay and Sean, head to New Orleans to explore the city's diverse drinking culture. Known for its vibrant nightlife and iconic cocktails, New Orleans offers an array of bars and experiences that are unique to the city.
The episode begins with Jay and Sean exploring the French Quarter, where they make their way to the famous Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone. The bar features a rotating carousel that seats patrons as they enjoy their drinks, and has been a staple in the New Orleans bar scene for decades. The hosts try a variety of cocktails, including the Vieux Carre, which was invented in New Orleans in the early 1900s.
Next, Jay and Sean visit the Sazerac Bar at the Roosevelt Hotel, where they learn about the history of the Sazerac cocktail, which is considered by many to be the oldest American cocktail. The hosts sample the cocktail and enjoy the luxurious environment of the bar.
Moving on from the French Quarter, Jay and Sean visit the Mid-City neighborhood of New Orleans, where they explore Finn McCool's Irish Pub. The bar is owned by two brothers from Ireland, and is a popular spot for locals to watch soccer games and enjoy a pint of beer. The hosts learn about the importance of community in the bar's culture, and try some traditional Irish whiskey.
Continuing on their tour of the city, Jay and Sean make their way to the Uptown neighborhood and visit the dive bar Snake and Jake's Christmas Club Lounge. The bar is known for its unique Christmas decorations that remain up year-round, and for its eclectic mix of patrons. The hosts try the bar's signature cocktail, called the Christmas Miracle, and talk to some of the regulars about the bar's history and significance in the community.
The hosts then head to the legendary music venue Tipitina's, where they catch a show and try some of the bar's signature drinks. Tipitina's has been a staple in the New Orleans music scene for over 40 years, hosting some of the biggest names in jazz, blues, and funk. The hosts speak with the owner and learn about the importance of live music in New Orleans' culture.
Finally, Jay and Sean visit the Tiki Tolteca, a hidden tiki bar in the city's Central Business District. The bar features a unique blend of Polynesian and Mayan decor, and specializes in creative tiki cocktails. The hosts try some of the bar's most popular drinks, and speak with the bartenders about the art of tiki mixology.
Throughout the episode, Jay and Sean explore the rich history and culture of New Orleans' drinking scene, and showcase some of the city's most iconic bars and cocktails. Viewers are given a glimpse into the various neighborhoods and communities that make up this vibrant city, and are left with a newfound appreciation for the depth and diversity of New Orleans' bar culture.