The Tastiest Jazz & Blues in New Orleans

Jazz in the Park

★★★★★ 4.9 (7) • $

"Louis Armstrong Park hosts Jazz in the Park each spring. Check out all my photos of the free bands from 4 to 8 every Thursday night. Various local vendors sell food, drinks and art pieces at reasonable prices.The Treme art and music festival is also held annually in Armstrong Park.Nola (New Orleans French Quarter) is renowned for it's live music offerings.THE DEAL: It's free, fun entertainment for the whole family!"

Wednesdays on the Point

★★★★★ 4.5 (6) • $$

"They get some good music here but it isn't as much fun and its far smaller as compared to the YLC Wednesday on the Square. They have a small selection of vendors to get food and drinks from. Parking is easy and you can also take the ferry for a nice visit. My only complaints are that there is no shade so you are in the sun the whole time and the beers are bit too expensive."

Musical Legends Park

★★★★☆ 4.2 (173) • $$

"Bourbon Street on a Tuesday night isn't nearly as hectic as Bourbon Street on a weekend night, but it was still fairly packed and rowdy when we headed out. We'd passed this little getaway a few times over the course of our stay and finally decided to duck in for a few.We made a beeline for the bar, where we waited for the bartender to finish explaining to the guy ahead of us that he needed some form of ID to sell him alcohol. It was a long conversation.We ordered a couple of drinks then made our way over to a table close-ish to the stage, so we could recline, imbibe and enjoy the live music. I don't know the name of the duo that was onstage that night - it was a trombone playing female singer and a male keyboard player - but they were talented. I loved the huskiness of her singing voice and the selection of songs they played for everyone.I wish we could have stayed a bit longer. We did hang out for a bit, but in the end we dropped a tip in the duo's bucket and headed back out into the night. We really could have stayed longer - we had nothing planned for the night - but the siren song of all the New Orleans things was calling to us, and we had to answer.If you're looking for a relatively calm place to catch your breath, head into the park. There are food options available at one of the kiosk/stores at the back (to the right of the bar), but we were still so full from lunch we couldn't even consider food at that time."

Dos Jefes

★★★★☆ 4 (84) • $$

"Jan 01, 2018, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! We stopped in to engage in the cigar bar. Great thing about this place & how we came to choose it, was because of its late closing time... 3am!!!!! So off we go!!!!Arriving was cool; not too many stares as we entered, stranger danger... Lol. I made my way to the cigar case for selection. When I decided, I elicited the assistance of John, the vest & pageboy clad bartender, for purchase. He clipped them and allowed us to use his lighter to get the party started. The price range on cigars was cool & affordable. Because this was New Years Eve/New Years Day, there were sandwich trays to celebrate... How cool!!!!Met a nice lady Tanya (ton-ya) & we shared NEW YEAR's Resolutions, of which I made NONE; we talked pooches & traded ER work stories. This was a great night cap; great cigar & convo. Lots of room to move about in the cigar bar & even an open back room with lounges & mini-sofas. Good that you can get a drink as well while puffing on the 'gar. Street parking is available & there are a few spaces on the side for angled parking. I plan to return; I understand there's live music here on some days... hopefully they'll be sandwiches then as well."

Treme Hideaway

★★★★★ 4.8 (10) • $$

"Surprise stop on the party bus! Although this was a quick stop, I definitely loved the atmosphere and vibe of this play. Good music, good food, and good drinks. Next time I'm in Nola, I will make sure to find my way back to Treme Hideaway!"

Candlelight Lounge

★★★★☆ 4.2 (34) • $

"Very cool hole in the wall joint that features the Treme Brass Band on Wednesday nights in the famous Treme neighborhood...just a stones throw away from the French Quarter.To see this awesome band it was a $10 cover which is not bad to see/hear some bad ass jazz. There isn't an ATM here so you will need to bring cash for the cover but the bar accepts debit/credit cards. There is a woman tucked in the corner behind the door that you would miss if you don't look to your right when you walk in. Don't worry, you will not get away with not paying the cover as there is an awesome woman by the name of Gladys that will make sure you turn around and pay...lol. Gladys is very nice and makes sure the crowd is engaged while the band is playing. When I say engaged I mean not just sitting there...she wants everyone getting up shaking their ass while the band is grooving. She has no problem pulling you outta that seat and saying get yo ass up and dance (in a nice way of course). She pretty much takes everyone's drink orders in addition to making sure the place is rocking. At one point she had everyone out of their seat dancing to the band's grooves.One of the best things about this place is they serve complimentary homemade red beans. I have to say these were the best I've ever had! They give you a small bowl which includes ham hocks. I've never had a ham hock in my life until I came here and I actually liked it. My greedy ass had two bowls as it definitely helps soak the alcohol. This is definitely a place to check out if you are into jazz and having a good time while listening to it."

The Spotted Cat Music Club

★★★★☆ 4.4 • $$

"I was spending the day with a dear friend of mine that lives in the area and she suggested we go to Frenchman Street to hear some good music. Locals will tell you that Frenchman is the place to go for live music. As you walk along, you'll hear the sounds of jazz, reggae, and blues coming out of the clubs.Our first stop was The Spotted Cat - a no frills club with cheap drinks and great music. There are a few places to sit inside and some tables outside. They don't serve food, but you'll hear some good live jazz. The bartender and the lady at the door were both very sweet. The band was great. They had a good groove, and the singer had an incredible voice. He also entertained us between songs with his witty humor. We came on a Sunday afternoon as there was no cover. I'm not sure if there is a charge at night.*Live music daily*Dog friendly"

Fritzel's European Jazz Pub

★★★★☆ 4.3 (560) • $$

"This establishment is a must visit , for their great customer service even though they get super packed. We were fortunate to get seating right on the side of the band with no one sitting in front of us. The waitress was very attentive and we kept her busy bringing us beers. The music is great and everyone is having a hella good time enjoying life, I know I did. When we go back to New Orleans again I know we will revisit this place again."

D.B.A. New Orleans

★★★★☆ 4.1 (491) • $$

"I was told if you wanted to hear good jazz music, you needed to stop by Frenchman Street. We were not disappointed when we came here. There was no cover charge, a live jazz band playing, people dancing, two full bars, and a good atmosphere. There were many bars on the street to choose from. Many required a drink purchase every hour, had a cover charge, were small, crammed. and had standing room only. We decided on coming here because there was no cover, and a live jazz band could be heard tearing it up inside. We walked in, and found the bar divided into two rooms. One side had full bar, tables, and chairs, and was a little quieter. You could still hear the jazz band but were able to carry on a conversation. The other room had a full bar, tables, and chairs, an open floor area for dancing, and a stage with the band. There was plenty of room to enjoy the music on both sides and bar tenders to assist you. The service was exceptional, the prices were reasonable, and the pours were generous. Overall, great experience and a fun time."

Preservation Hall

★★★★☆ 4.4 (892) • $$

"This was highly recommended to my wife by friends and family.We purchased our tickets online several days before but could only get standing room tickets. The website was easy to use. The venue is intimate so there is a limited number of people that can attend any given showingThe seats are wooden benches, and the standing tickets are basically standing shoulder to shoulder with others in the back.You need to arrive 30 minutes in advance and have your tickets with you. You will wait in a line outside. When it comes to the standing room tickets, the folks who get there earlier will get better standing room.No food or drink allowed, BUT, you can bring in water. Be prepared as there is also no food or drinks for sale. You can buy souvenirs after the show, you will walk through the merchandise area ass you head into the seats. The music and show was awesome! My family and I had a really great time! Depending on when you go, the artists tend to rotate. Definitely worth doing!"

Three Muses

★★★★☆ 4.1 • $$

"We loved this place. We needed a late lunch after a long day of walking around, and wow! We were so satisfied. The drinks were outstanding - fancy cocktail bar worthy but in an approachable setting. The musicians were talented and the service was friendly. If I was a local, this would be in the regular rotation."

The Jazz Playhouse

★★★★☆ 4.3 (308) • $$

"On the latest trip to Nola i finally made it to a Jazz club. I made the reservations online with the ticket prices really reasonable. Located deep on Bourbon St the club us nesseled inside of a hotel. We took our seats in front of the stage and was warmly greeted by our server. We ordered crabcakes with a side of rice and a few drinks. The featured performer and her band was outstanding!! Since it was the last show of the evening we were treated to a wonderful encore. The scene was cozy, the staff great and the food/drinks delightful."

Lumiere Blues & Jazz Bistro

★★★★☆ 4.4 (8)

"I absolutely love this place. The food and atmosphere is so great. Lumiere is a hidden gem everyone should try them out."

30/90 NOLA

★★★★☆ 3.9 (375) • $$

"Music was great. We came here on a Saturday night. The Lyndsay Smith Band was grooving. This band turned it out. All of the musicians were so talented. We were lucky to find a spot near the bar. For drinks I got a hurricane drink. I really wanted a mai tai but they were out of an ingredient. My husband grabbed a beer. This establishment is huge with an upstairs, outside patio and dance floor. The bathrooms here were nice and clean. If back to NOLA, I would venture on over to Frenchmen streets and hang with the locals."

Bistreaux

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (120) • $$

"The hotel restaurant that we actually ended up enjoying very much.Our stay included breakfast each morning which was very good. Only complaint is that we were limited on what we were allowed to order.I would steer clear of the breakfast sandwich because the croissant came out soggy and wet.The cheesy grits were phenomenal and the bloody Mary's were spicy and delicious.We came back here for our last lunch before heading to the airport. I recommend the flats breads and the French onion soup"

Palm Court Jazz Cafe

★★★★☆ 3.9 (121) • $$

"I'm always looking for great Jazz places to direct my friends who visit New Orleans. After Preservation Hall, this would be my next choice. Located in the French Quarter, this is a very nice Jazz cafe. A $10 cover charge and reservations are required. They have a full dinner menu and a full bar. The Jazz Band is a house band of excellent local musicians ... even some recent graduates of the NO School for the Arts Tables for two and accommodations for larger groups. Wait staff is attentive and friendly. Palm Court is a pleasant break from the seedier Bourbon Street establishments. If you're looking for a more upscale and family friendly experience, this is your place!"

The Polo Club

★★★★☆ 4.2 (79) • $$

"Our bartender, Woody, took perfect care to make sure that we had the best libations and that we were utterly entertained beyond expectation. It is so fun to have a lively bartender who not only likes to tell his own tales, but has an ear to be engaged by what his guests say as well. I enjoyed every drink, the nice bites with the perfect Castelvetrano Olives, fried pork skins and mixed nuts. I enjoyed the atmosphere as it reminded me of someone's old library that is perfectly curated with loungy and comfortable furniture. There is frequent live jazz music to entertain but not overpower your conversation. I cannot wait to stay at the Windsor Court and visit The Polo Club again."

New Orleans Jazz Market

★★★★☆ 4.3 (30) • $$

"I attended the Millennial Awards here. This is a nice venue with a good layout for an event or party. The Millennial Awards was a packed crowd and I wished the food stations had been set up a little better, but there is only so much you can do with limited space. Because this was such a busy event, it did take a while to get drinks- I don't understand why more bartenders aren't hired for bigger events like this.The main room where the awards were held was very nice. I sat upstairs and there was another bar there that was less crowded, so that was nice. The sound system was perfect for the presentation and the seats are arranged nicely so you can easily see the stage wherever you may be sitting.One complaint: the sinks in the bathroom didn't work AT ALL. They are the automated type and I couldn't get anything more than a trickle out of them. My date said the same about the men's room."

Bustout Burlesque

★★★★☆ 3.6 (20)

"There is just something about Bustout Burlesque.This isn't your typical burlesque. This is the show to check out if you are more interested in "classic" burlesque than "neo" burlesque. All of the dancers have gorgeous custom made glittering costumes and they perform to a live band. Watching them, you get the feeling that you are back on Bourbon St. in the 50's watching a world famous performer.I would say that Bustout is a "must" for tourists and locals alike."

Maison Bourbon

★★★★☆ 4.2 (217) • $$

"Excellent music every time I go here. Drink prices are a little steep but there is only a one drink minimum and no cover."

Wharton's

★★☆☆☆ 2.2 (9)

"If you like your dive bars divey, this is the place for you. We recently visited to attend the adult prom, "A Night You'll Never Remember," and had a great time. We decided to meet an old friend here for drinks and catch up. Rhonda was serving up the drinks cold and fast and always with a lovely, lovely smile. And, if you weren't careful, with a quick wit, to boot! Oh man, I love a sassy bartender! We'll definitely be back."

The Maison

★★★★☆ 3.9 (657) • $$

"I was NOT expecting the bbq shrimp and grits to be this good! The bbq sauce is a bit salty and Smokey, no sweetness really. The grits are a nice buttery texture and carry the flavor of the bbq sauce very well. Couple this with the amazing band that's playing tonight, the vibes are super nice!"

Apple Barrel Bar

★★★★☆ 3.8 (150) • $

"If this were Reddit, I'd be downvoted for this review. Apple Barrel Bar is my kind of bar. It's small... very small. The bar seats maybe 6, plus 2 (or was it 3?) other tables with 2-3 chairs. And there is little room left to stand. But the music was exceptional. And the bartender made a mean Sazerac. If I lived in NOLA, I'd make this my local joint. So don't try to come during peak hours. Or stand outside and listen to the music. But if you can get in and find a seat, plan to settle in and enjoy a local vibe. I'm in love."

Kermit's Treme Mother In Law Lounge

★★★★★ 4.5 (68) • $$

"Definitely a vibe for the grown and sexy. LOL. Now that I'm in my 30s, I have a deep appreciation for more intimate bars. I really like the "jazz ambiance" and the fact that it is situated right in the heart of the 7th ward. Grab a drink, chill in one of the big chairs, and hope that the legend is there to play a tune or two!"

The Davenport Lounge

★★★★☆ 4.2 (135) • $$$

"It is funny, I have spent over 7 nights in this hotel over 2 visits the past decade ish- and I never experienced the lounge until recently. I am kicking myself for not checking it out sooner. If you are familiar with the hotel setup at the Ritz, you need to take one of 2 elevators from the bottom floor to get you to third floor. On this floor, is the lobby, a gift shop, a courtyard, the restaurant, and the mentioned lounge. In some previous reviews of guests expressing their disdain, I did notice that the lounge does offer reservations during the weekend via opentable. However, I was there on a Wed, so it was a first come first serve. After a nice filling lunch @ Acme and an afternoon on an airboat, we decided our last night to keep the commute short to the room on our last night and check out the lounge. I usually don't snoop around the hotel (I should have though, it would make things make more sense), but from what I see, depending if you enter from the front or back of the hotel, depends on what set of elevators you take, which then depends if you enter the front or back side of the lounge. If you come through the back, you will most likely walk through the lounge to get to the lobby. Don't fret though, if you find a seat, take it! There are a lot of seats, and a nice bar with some TVs as well. However, the main event is Jeremy Davenport (of Emeril Live fame) and his band, when they are playing on the stage. When we got a table, we were lucky to get a great view, as it was starting to fill up quick (which was great, I didn't see the place too crowded when Jeremy was not playing).We were greeted by Mert, our fantastic server who guided us through everything. He gave us a bar menu, and we said we were hungry, and he also provided us a dinner menu from the neighboring M Bistro. People can say what they want (omg, you went to New Orleans just to eat at the hotel!)- the food here was solid, and had plenty of french and cajun influence.We were able to order from both menus, so we definitely did. We got some foie gras and fries to start, along with shrimp and grits and lobster carbonara for mains. The fries were solid (which sometimes can be easy to mess up) as was the foie gras. I do only wish the foie gras had more toast, however, it was fine on its own. The lobster dish was hearty, and not what I had expected, which was a good thing. It didn't look like a lot until you started eating it. A great filler. The shrimp and grits were solid as well.Mert keep trying to sell us on dessert, and we decided to share a lemon cheesecake. It was fantastic. He knew I was fat and I could have eaten more (I mean, the walk home was only 5 more floors), but I had to start a 6000 mile journey early the next morning- I had to show SOME restraint. All in all, the atmosphere, the service, and the food were all a great way to end a fun trip in New Orleans, and it was nice to be relaxed and unwind in the cool of things. I did have shorts on, and I wasn't judged, which is always nice- it didn't seem stuffy at all. Will have to go back and enjoy more of the menu!"

Sweet Lorraine's

★★★★☆ 4.1 (35) • $$

"One of the highlights of our trip. The music and food were phenomenal.On arrival, the vegetarian/vegan menu choices were very limited vs. what was on the on-line menu. We mentioned this to the wait staff...the next thing we saw was the chef who said she would "take care of us". We did not know what we would get, but we trusted her.Everything was vegan and delicious. Beyond delicious. Vegan crab cakes. Vegan fried mushrooms. Both served with what tasted like horseradish sauce which was absolutely perfect. Vegan red beans and rice. Vegan beyond burger sliders, which did not taste anything like you the beyond burger you buy in a grocery. The seasoning was...I'll just say I would give almost anything to know what she did to the generic beyond burger. I'm running out of superlatives.Musically, this was hands down the best show we saw on our trip. High energy flowing from the performers and the crowd, blues to die for.We easily walked from the French Quarter. Try hard to catch a show here while in New Orleans."

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

★★★★☆ 3.5 (498) • $$

"This was a return visit to Snug Harbor on Frenchman Street! Always a cool place and known for their musical performances and good food. Sadly, for me, the food quality has suffered. The food was lukewarm and the dried out!The staff were personable and friendly and that helped with the overall disappointment of the meal!I say...go for the music...stick with drinks."

Bayou Bar

★★★★☆ 4.2 (111) • $$

"This place is a gem in the general lower Garden District/Garden District area of New Orleans because it has the best live jazz in the city six days a week. Some of the top performers in town play here regularly and it's just awesome. The cocktails and wine list are great and I have been here several times this summer. I finally had some appetizers, the wings and the fries were delicious. I know the restaurant where the food comes from is actually quite outstanding as well And the service staff are very pleasant. My favorite cocktail is the Hibis-Kiss and it's delicious! But really I come for the music and the laid-back vibe!"

Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits

★★★★☆ 4.4 • $$

"We have only been on warm sunny days and sat outside quaffing wine and listening to music and enjoying conversation. Pick out your food and wine and sit back. Like being in your backyard but without the hard work of entertaining. the only place we have ever been that servers Sardines on Toast, one of Pablo's favorites.Of the beaten track. Take an Uber or enjoy a long stroll."

New Orleans Jazz Museum

★★★★☆ 4 (94) • $

"Which museum is located almost next door to the huge French Marketplace?Extensive collection of memorabilia of jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Fats Domino, including posters, pictures, record albums, trumpets, coronets, and other musical instruments . Colorful paintings of the history of jazz. Black and white pictures trace back the roots of jazz in New Orleans. Separate exhibits on women in jazz in New Orleans.One floor has separate collection of US mint and coin collections. Clean bathrooms come with the $6 admission purchase. We missed out on the free jazz concert upstairs."

Madame Vic’s

★★★★★ 5 (10) • $$

"Fantastic rehab of a rare New Orleans Victorian on Elysian Fields. The two bars and outside patio is spacious yet intimate. The music room is beautiful where we enjoyed a couple of great sets from Davis Rogen. Great music venue with many of fun days ahead."

Mahogany Jazz Hall

★★★★★ 4.6 (227) • $$

"Amazing venue. World class jazz and there is great energy in the club with a very convivial atmosphere. Also, I was accidentally overcharged for my drinks and reached out to the club a week later via email (I live in Chicago). They sent the difference via PayPal. It's an incredibly honest and ethical business."

Bourbon 'O' Bar

★★★★☆ 4.4 (283) • $$

"One of the classiest bars on Bourbon St. the night we were there, Serabee performed and was terrific. Very relaxed atmosphere providing great atmosphere to relax and really enjoy the music. One touch I appreciate was a free water dispenser to help yourself. Cool idea more places should embrace."