Celebrating 75 Years of Spinning and Sipping
Stepping into The Carousel Bar is more than just enjoying a drink – it’s a journey through time and a celebration of New Orleans’ vibrant culture. We invite you to join us as we celebrate 75 years of spinning and sipping! We will celebrate all summer long with specials, cocktail classes and more!
A Storied Ride Since 1949
The Carousel Bar opened its doors on September 3rd, 1949, and has been a cherished New Orleans landmark ever since. Over the years, it has hosted a dazzling array of celebrities and entertainers, from the flamboyant Liberace to the soulful Dr. John, and from piano man Billy Joel to the legendary clarinetist Pete Fountain.
This marvel of mechanical whimsy operates on a surprisingly simple yet ingenious system: 2,000 ball bearings, a bicycle chain, and a single 1/4 horsepower electric motor. Every 15 minutes, the carousel gracefully completes a full rotation, offering patrons a unique perspective of the bar and its lively atmosphere.
Originally designed to evoke the spirit of a bustling carnival, The Carousel Bar has evolved over time. Today, it features a captivating ambiance with 186 twinkling lights adorning the canopy. The 25 hand-painted carousel seats, each depicting a whimsical circus animal, are a charming testament to the artistry of Disney artists
Vieux Carré Cocktail
This historic New Orleans cocktail, created by a Hotel Monteleone bartender, Walter Bergeron, found its home at the Carousel Bar. We invite you to celebrate with us and enjoy this original recipe:
¾ oz Sazerac Rye Whiskey
¾ oz Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac (or your favorite)
½ oz Sweet Vermouth
¼ oz Benedictine Liquor
2-3 Dashes Peychaud Bitters
2-3 Dashes Angostura Bitters
Build in an ice filled old fashioned glass, give a quick stir to mix, garnish with a fresh lemon twist.
Carousel Bar Experience
Our Carousel Bar Experience gives guests of Hotel Monteleone exclusive first access to secure a sought-after seat at the bar before the doors open to the public. The one-hour private session is guided by our renowned Mixologist, Marvin Allen, or our knowledgeable Tour Director, Mike Dupree. You’ll delve into the Carousel Bar’s illustrious history of legendary patrons and celebrated cocktails, like the quintessential Sazerac and Hotel Monteleone’s very own Vieux Carré cocktail. Indulge in a complimentary cocktail as you‘re regaled with tales of the past. The Carousel Bar Experience is open for reservations for guests staying at Hotel Monteleone during our anniversary celebration week September 15-21. Reservations are $75. Book your hotel stay online.
Cocktail Classes
This immersive experience takes place once a month this summer. Beverage Manager, Marvin Allen, will walk you through mixing the bar’s signature Vieux Carré cocktail. The 50 minute-long classes will be offered on the following dates at 10am and will have first access to a seat at the Carousel Bar when it opens at 11am. Reservations are $75 per person.
- September 11
Limited seating is available for guests of Hotel Monteleone. Book your hotel stay online.
Carousel Memories
For the entire month of September, we invite you to share your favorite memories from Carousel Bar. Post your best photo using #Carousel75 during the month of September and we will pick a lucky winner to win Carousel Bar swag, a $50 bar tab and a two night stay at Hotel Monteleone!
Cocktail Countdown
We’re celebrating 75 years with our cocktail countdown – a different decade’s signature cocktail each month leading up to our anniversary celebration in September.
September: Paloma and Dark & Stormy
Anniversary Week Happenings September 16-21
Cocktails for a Cause
This anniversary isn’t just about us, it’s about giving back to the community that made us who we are. On September 18th, a portion of all sales will benefit The 18th Ward, a fantastic organization providing high-quality, low-cost youth sports programs in New Orleans. Join us during our anniversary celebration while supporting a cause that ensures all kids have a chance to play!
Carousel Bar Classic Cocktails
Each day during our anniversary week, we’ll be showcasing a different signature cocktail, from the iconic Vieux Carré to the intriguing French 007, the delightful Goodie, and the elegant Fleur de Lis. Raise a glass to 75 years of legendary libations and rediscover these Carousel favorites.
Guest Bartenders
From 4-6 PM on September 16-19, we’re thrilled to host a star-studded lineup of guest bartenders, including industry luminaries Chris Hannah, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, Kimberly Patton-Bragg, and Abigail Gull. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to mingle with these cocktail icons and raise a glass to our seven and a half decades of excellence.
Live Entertainment
September 16
Leslie Martin Trio 6:00PM – 9:00PM
September 17
Annabelle & The Bombay’s
6:00PM- 9:00PM
September 18
Ed Wills -Blues for Sale 8:00PM – 11:00PM
September 19
Lena Prima & Band
9:00PM-12:00AM
September 20
Richard Scott Trio
5:30PM-8:30PM
Nayo Jones Experience
9:00PM-12:00AM
September 21
Ed Wills – Blues for Sale
9:00AM-12:00AM
Featured Cocktails
September 16
French 007
Created by Marvin Allen in 2007, a refreshing twist on the classic French 75, consisting of Pama Pomegranate Liquor, Mathilde Peach Liquor, topped with Prosecco with a twist of fresh lemon. $18.00
September 17
The Fleur de Lis
A cocktail created by Parker Davis in 2007 consisting of fresh cucumber, fresh lemon juice, Hendricks Gin, St. Germaine elderflower liquor, and a splash of ginger ale. $18.00
September 18
The Vieux Carré
The cocktail of The Carousel, created by Walter Bergeron in the mid 1930’s is a mixing of Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Ferrand 1840 Cognac, Benedictine, Valdopablo Sweet Vermouth, and both Angostura Peychauds bitters, garnished with a twist of fresh lemon. $21.00
September 19
The Goody
Created by Carousel Bar bartenders in honor of a past General Manager, James Goodman, consisting of Don Q Crystal Rum, Planteray Dark Rum, fresh orange juice, pineapple juice, a touch of Orgeat Syrup, and topped with sprite. $18.00
September 20
The Sazerac
The official cocktail of New Orleans as designated by Louisiana State Legislature in 2008, considered to be one of the first cocktails and a forerunner of the Manhattan. The glass is first rinsed with Herbsaint, then a chilled mélange of Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Peychaud’s Bitters, and a touch of simple syrup is added to the Herbsaint rinsed glass. $21.00
Guest Bartenders - 4-6pm
September 16
Chris Hannah
Jewel of the South
September 17
Abigail Gullo
Consultant – Spirited Destinations
September 18
Jeff “Beachbum” Berry
Latitude 29
September 19
Kimberly Patton-Bragg -“KPB”