The Sazerac Bar — Restaurant in New Orleans

I want to share an unfortunate experience I had at the Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel this past Saturday night, December 7, 2024. As a native New Orleanian, someone who takes immense pride in our city’s legendary hospitality, I left the bar feeling insulted and disheartened by the treatment I received.

I was there with a guest and ordered two glasses of champagne. The charge was $38. Later, I ordered another round, only to find the second charge had jumped to $56. Naturally, I brought this discrepancy to our server’s attention. Instead of receiving a clear explanation or resolution, the server appeared confused and called someone else to handle the issue.

When this second individual arrived, I tried to explain the situation again. Unfortunately, the loud atmosphere made his response unintelligible. He walked away without resolving anything, leaving me and my guest waiting awkwardly. After what felt like an unreasonable amount of time, he finally returned to the vicinity. I repeated my concerns and expressed my dissatisfaction. Another nearby patron (a stranger to me) even chimed in, confirming the validity of my account and supporting my perspective. Despite this, the server said nothing in response and walked away once more. At that point, I felt utterly dismissed and disrespected.

To add insult to injury, when I checked my card transactions online two days later, the charges that appeared were $38.00 and $67.20. There is no indication of how the second charge jumped from $56.00 to $67.20. Furthermore, there was no notice of an automatic service charge on the sales ticket, which would have at least explained part of the discrepancy. This lack of transparency is deeply concerning and reflects poorly on the establishment.

This kind of treatment is not what I, or any customer, should expect—especially in a city like New Orleans, where our economy relies heavily on the tourism and hospitality industry. The way my concern was brushed off was not only unprofessional but also disrespectful.

There are so many venues in New Orleans that respect their customers and work hard to leave a lasting, positive impression. Unfortunately, the Sazerac Bar failed in this regard. Until this matter is addressed to my satisfaction, I have no intention of returning. I feel compelled to share this experience with others who may be considering visiting the Sazerac Bar, in hopes that it encourages better customer service moving forward. Hospitality is at the heart of New Orleans, and establishments like the Sazerac Bar need to do better to uphold that reputation.

UPDATE: 12/31/2024: I subsequently contacted the bar manager about the matter and he was quite apologetic. Upon investigation he explained that despite my having requested champagne, my first order was recorded in the system as "sparkling wine." The second order was for premium champagne. A service charge was later added to the second order as is reportedly done when a signed receipt is not located. To resolve the matter he agreed to credit the second charge of $67.20 to my card (which he did) and stated that he was arranging to train staff on professional and courteous ways of serving patrons. I think that's worth...

Based on recent reviews from visitors, The Sazerac Bar in New Orleans is praised for its historic atmosphere, classic cocktails, and skilled staff, but can become very crowded and is considered expensive. The bar is located in the elegant Roosevelt Hotel and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Positive feedback Historical and elegant atmosphere: Reviewers describe the bar as having a timeless, classic, and sophisticated vibe. The Art Deco decor and WPA-era murals are frequently highlighted. Expertly crafted cocktails: The bar's namesake Sazerac is a highlight for many, with some reviewers calling it the best in the city. Other classic drinks like the Ramos Gin Fizz and Old Fashioned are also recommended. Knowledgeable bartenders: The bar staff, particularly the bartenders, are often described as skilled, knowledgeable, and friendly, despite frequently being busy. Lively, upscale ambiance: Visitors find the bar to be energetic but still upscale, making it a "must-visit" for many. Critical feedback Crowds and seating: The bar can get extremely crowded, especially during peak hours or holidays. Several recent reviews note a new lack of bar stools and limited table seating, which can make it hard to find a spot to sit. High prices: Drinks are consistently described as expensive, with reviewers noting that the experience is more of a "splurge". Inconsistent service: While many praise the bartenders, some reviews point to moments of poor or less-than-attentive service, possibly due to the staff being overworked during busy periods. Pre-batched cocktails: One reviewer noted that they received a premixed Sazerac from a jug, which detracted from their experience. Tips for visitors If you want to enjoy the historic ambiance in a quieter setting, consider visiting during the earlier afternoon. For a more festive experience, go in the evening, but be prepared for a larger crowd and potentially standing-room only. If the bar is too crowded, you can get a drink and find a seat in the hotel's lobby, which is also beautifully decorated. Be prepared for a higher price point for cocktails, as this is a luxury hotel...

Interesting story. This place doesn't serve food and it was late so we grabbed something from the truck parked outside and came in for a drink. Since we were staying at the hotel it all made sense before going to bed. Unfortunately the bar doesn't allow food inside though the staff in the lobby didn't know that there was an issue with it, we went in sat down for a cocktail and we're invited to leave. When we offered to bury our food behind us and have a cocktail and take our food to the room the rude 50 year old blonde waitress said no you can't because you will be eating when we're not looking. You are welcome to leave. Considering the cost of this hotel and the cost of the drinks in the bar I can only assume that she figured we were transients. God forbid and we wear jeans and t-shirts in your bar. So is offensive as that all was, I went outside to the lobby and waited for my wife to grab me some Blanton's to take back to the room. Imagine how nice they rude waitresses when she finds out you're drinking $42 a pop. We didn't let it spoil our trip and the rest of the staff in the hotel was very nice, polite and professional. The bartenders were very professional and knew how to mix a drink and their list of bottles behind the counter was impressive. I can't say I won't be back but I will hope not to run...