Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
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Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar, nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, is a legendary establishment that holds the title of the oldest bar in New Orleans. With a rich history dating back to the early 18th century, this charming tavern exudes an authentic New Orleans vibe that is both inviting and intriguing. As you step inside Lafitte’s, you are immediately transported to a bygone era. The dim lighting, exposed beams, and rustic decor create a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with friends or soaking in the local culture. The bar’s namesake, Jean Lafitte, a notorious pirate and privateer, adds to its allure, as tales of his exploits echo through its walls. The drink menu at Lafitte’s is impressive, featuring a wide selection of cocktails, beers, and the iconic Sazerac. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing stories about the bar's storied past. Enjoying a drink in the courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of live music, is a quintessential New Orleans experience. One standout feature is the bar’s commitment to preserving its historical significance while offering modern comforts. Whether you're a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique spot to relax, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar should be on your must-visit list. It’s more than just a bar; it’s a piece of New Orleans history that continues to captivate locals and tourists alike.
J Frank (JF1973)J Frank (JF1973)
00
For me and my girlfriend's first time in New Orleans, we didn't spend TOO much time on Bourbon Street, as we were trying to avoid the more populated areas. However, this was a GREAT first spot in that area, and if you're gonna check out anyplace on Bourbon Street, this should definitely be one of them. Just the very idea of being able to go to the oldest bar in the country was enough to make me want to check it out, and we enjoyed it. I ordered Yuengling beer, which you can't get where I'm from, and the lady behind the bar told me I could take it with me if I wanted to. THAT'S how I found out you can drink in public in that area, which was news to me (yeah I know, I sound like a tourist). I didn't end up taking it with me, but we did enjoy a few on one of the outdoor tables. But the atmosphere was really cool - the walls are decorated with photos of all the celebrities that have visited the spot, and pretty much everyone and their mom has been here - Jon Stewart, Paul Walker, Nicolas Cage, Jason Alexander, the list goes on. So in my opinion, if it's good enough for Nicolas Cage, it's good enough for me! Can't wait to return! If you're gonna be in this area, I would suggest coming here first and then start walking up and down Bourbon Street.
Will KrissWill Kriss
00
This was my favorite place. Came multiple nights and watched and waited for the seats by the fireplace to be open. Came one night and waited for three hours as the place was so packed you could barely move. When the seat by the fireplace finally became available, the bar was empty except for a few people. I grabbed the spot I had been eyeing other people sitting at all night- the table by the fire. Scooted my seat back a few inches to take a photo and got yelled at by the bartender for blocking a non-existent walkway to take a photo by the fire. Then watched dozens more patrons come in and block all the walkways fully and completely without getting bothered at all. So I’m wondering why everyone else can stand wherever they want and get treated well yet I sit by the fire, something I watched dozens of people do for nights, solely to take a photo, and get yelled at for blocking a walkway when I do it despite being one of three people in an open bar with any pathway open the bartender wanted. He just wanted to be rude to me because I was an easy target. So I guess I won’t be coming back here. I hate watching all the clientele be treated well and able to stand and sit anywhere the want, yet I choose one spot many had before me and get called out for being “In the way” in an empty- yes- EMPTY- bar at that point. Photos below of the bar after I got yelled at- where people are blocking all the walkways yet it’s fine. This is the same walkway I got chastised for blocking when the bar was empty.
Malorie MackeyMalorie Mackey
00
I have to admit, it is cool to be in the oldest bar in the United States - it definitely feels historical and has a cool, rustic charm about it. However, for me it seems like that accolade it possesses is the main thing carrying it, because what was offered and what I tasted was overall nothing to write home about. I tried their Hurricane which, the drink itself I normally love, but this one was awful. I can't really even describe what made it so bad but it just tasted...off, like either the fruit juices they were using were bad or grossly artificial or something, and there was just too much in it. My dad tried some "Voodoo Nightmare" or something drink and he also twisted his face in disgust after trying it. My friend, who is normally very partial and resilient to strong drinks, barely drank his. The only good thing I had was a Crisp Apple Angry Orchard and that was in a bottle. The place also seemed a little unkempt given the whirling fans above that were absolutely caked in dust. Thank goodness it had been stuck on them so long I don't think it could've blown off even if it wanted to, but I was constantly watching waiting for flecks of dusty, linty, hairy confetti to blow off and fall into one of our drinks or cause an allergic reaction. I would say if you're in the neighborhood definitely poke your head inside, get a picture out front, but enter at your own risk. Sad.
Paul NagyPaul Nagy
00
Located on Bourbon Street, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar is a historic gem approaching its remarkable 300th birthday. Constructed between 1722 and 1732, this iconic brick and beam Creole cottage holds the distinction of being the oldest building used as a bar in the U.S. Woven with tales of resilience, Lafitte's survived two great fires in the 18th century, thanks to its slate roofing. Steeped in history, it's believed to have been the storehouse of New Orleans full time pirate and part time hero Jean Lafitte. Located in the lower Bourbon area providing a unique haven for those seeking a genuine New Orleans experience. Simplicity reigns here, encouraging patrons to revel in straightforward, classic drinks. Lafitte's stands out with reasonably priced drinks compared to its Bourbon Street counterparts, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a break from the lively chaos. It's your best bet on Bourbon Street, especially if your feet are tired from exploring and you've had your fill of raucous mayhem. More than just a place, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar is a living chapter of New Orleans history, inviting you to immerse yourself in its timeless charm and become a part of the narrative that has withstood the test of time.
Eddy Roger ParkerEddy Roger Parker
00
This is an interesting place, mostly by virtue of its history and antiquity. In the United States, to be able to say one is standing an a buliding that was built in the late 1700s is a unique expereince in itself, and it is interesting in that regard. Looking at the trusses in the ceiling which support the roof, one can tell the place is very old. I'm not familiar enough with the technology of the era to say how old, but I have no reason to doubt it is as old as it is claimed to be. Overall the place is worth stopping to have a drink and get off one's feet for a few, but I wasn't compelled to stay any longer than that. This place, as is true of most places in the French Quarter is not fully wheelchair accessible. The double shuttered door openings are wide enough for a wheelchair (>/=36") and possibly at the one which opens onto St. Philip, the single step may be low enough to get over, certainly if one has assistance, but the the other entrances are less likely as the steps at each of them is higher.
Michael UMichael U
00
Nearby Attractions Of Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Jackson Square
Shops of the Colonnade
Museum of Death New Orleans
Louis Armstrong Park
Cajun Encounters Tours (Booking Office)
Hotel Monteleone
The Escape Game New Orleans
Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr - Astor
St. Louis Cathedral
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
Jackson Square
4.7
(10.6K)Click for details
Shops of the Colonnade
4.5
(5.6K)Click for details
Museum of Death New Orleans
4.1
(3.1K)Click for details
Louis Armstrong Park
4.5
(3K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Cafe Du Monde
Oceana Grill
Pat O'Brien's
Deanie's Seafood Restaurant in the French Quarter
Cafe Beignet, Royal Street
Gumbo Shop
Acme Oyster House
Daisy Dukes French Quarter
The Court of Two Sisters
Napoleon House
Cafe Du Monde
4.5
(15.9K)Click for details
Oceana Grill
4.4
(7.5K)Click for details
Pat O'Brien's
4.5
(4.2K)Click for details
Deanie's Seafood Restaurant in the French Quarter
4.4
(4.3K)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Map
Phone
(504) 593-9761
Call
Website
lafittesblacksmithshop.com
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Reviews
Overview
4.6
(4.6K reviews)
Ratings & Description
Description
Dimly lit hang & one of the oldest bars around, serving beer & frozen drinks since the 1700s.
attractions: Jackson Square, Shops of the Colonnade, Museum of Death New Orleans, Louis Armstrong Park, Cajun Encounters Tours (Booking Office), Hotel Monteleone, The Escape Game New Orleans, Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr - Astor, St. Louis Cathedral, The Royal Sonesta New Orleans, restaurants: Cafe Du Monde, Oceana Grill, Pat O'Brien's, Deanie's Seafood Restaurant in the French Quarter, Cafe Beignet, Royal Street, Gumbo Shop, Acme Oyster House, Daisy Dukes French Quarter, The Court of Two Sisters, Napoleon House
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