If there’s one thing New Orleans is almost universally known for, it is our passion for alcoholic beverages. And while some might be satisfied with the obscenely sugary drinks Bourbon Street has to offer, others are insistent on creating and testing only the finest cocktails.
The Hotel Monteleone’s world-famous Carousel Bar & Lounge has been a beacon for cocktail connoisseurs since its opening in 1949. With famous drinks like the Vieux Carre and the Fleur De Lis, the Carousel Bar remains a coveted destination for alcohol experts and enthusiasts alike.
Below are some of our most tried and true summer cocktail recipes that we proudly share with the public:
Death Valley Cocktail Recipe
With Purple and Pink coloring, this drink is inspired by our local college favorite, the LSU Tigers, and their home stadium, which is popularly known as Death Valley. Made with a healthy dose of citrus vodka, raspberry liquor, and Crème de Violet, this fruity spritzer packs a sweet punch. This beverage is perfect for an early morning college football game viewing—GEAUX TIGERS!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz. Ketel One Citroen
- ½ oz. Bols Black Raspberry Liquor
- ½ oz. Crème de Violet
- 1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
- ½ oz. Simple Syrup
- 2–3 oz. Club Soda
Recipe
Build in a 12 oz. cocktail glass. Roll in a Boston Shaker to mix and garnish with a fresh lemon wedge.
Diablo Cocktail Recipe
A dance with this sweet devil is sure to please all tequila enthusiasts. Perfectly mixed with black raspberry liquor, the distinctive reposada tequila adds a flavor that can’t be ignored. Rest assured that while this drink might seem intimidating, it will leave you with a sweet aftertaste.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ oz. Reposodo Tequila
- ½ oz. Black Raspberry Liquor
- 3 oz. Grapefruit Soda (or equal parts Grapefruit Juice and Club Soda)
Recipe
Stir all ingredients in a 12 oz. cocktail glass. Serve over ice.
Colleen’s Green Apple Martini Recipe
Simple and to the point, this Green Apple martini can be enjoyed anywhere from the heart of the city all the way to your home kitchen. Apple Schnapps, vodka and a little shaking is all it takes to make this classic drink come to life.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz. Apple Schnapps
- 1 ½ oz. Kettle One Vodka
Recipe
Shake over ice and strain into a martini glass.
Zulu Scoconut Cocktail Recipe
Named after the famed Zulu Mardi Gras parade in which Krewe members toss coconuts to the crowd, this dreamy coconut-flavored concoction is sure to bring good vibes to all who imbibe. While the Hotel Monteleone uses its own secret punch mix, feel free to improvise with your own mix of favorite fruits.
Ingredients
- 1 oz. Southern Comfort
- 1 oz. Bacardi Coconut
- 3 oz. Punch Mix (combination of Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice, Cranberry Juice, and Orgeat Syrup)
- 1 oz. Cranberry Juice
Recipe
Serve over ice in a Hurricane-style glass.
Sip and Spin at the Carousel Bar!
The Carousel Bar & Lounge is open 7 days a week from 11 AM until the last patron finishes his or her drink. Thursday through Sunday, you can find some of New Orleans’ most talented artists on our stage. Check out this full schedule of performers to plan your next visit!