Apple Barrel Bar

FIRST BAR WE HIT IN NOLA! And honestly couldn’t be happier. If this is what’s to come, I’m super stoked about our trip. We got decent priced drinks in a bar atmosphere that is our absolute FAVORITE and we got to check out Smoky Greenwell band. Awesome jazz band that hit on the harmonica! Love this spot and will DEFINITELY be back.

Great staff here, I love the stained glass looking sign out front. It really drew us in! Everyone was so friendly here too! They had an incredible musician playing here and the drink choices were great! If I was a local this would be a frequent for me! I loved it here, neat bar and scene

Tiny little bar with seating for maybe 10 and fantastic music. Sharing such a small space with the band and the other patrons adds to its charm.

We love this tiny little bar in the Marigny. Many locals know it as the bar under Adolfo’s Restaurant but the Apple Barrel Bar is plenty strong enough to stand on its on. Very good local live entertainment, good drinks and super friendly bar personnel make this tiny bar a destination for us. We think if you stop in for a drink, listen to some music you may feel the same. Nothing fancy just a cool little New Orleans bar.

Offbeat live jazz bar on Frenchmen with a classic interior. Good place to start or end a jazz crawl as there are so many great venues down this stretch.

I did not attend anything there & ate. Basic beer selection to choose from. Share people would be fine with the selection they had. Especially with the amazing musicians that frequent these places. Amazing blues trio that was seen on 5 - 25-24

Was there with my brother last weekend. Really cool spot with amazing music and atmosphere. We loved the music so much we stayed a good part of the night. The first bartender of the night was amazing! Unfortunately he left and a quite unfriendly bartender started. He got weirdly mad when I asked for a cup of water and he said it was a $4 charge, which was frustrating considering we had bought a ton of drinks throughout the night. I mean not a huge deal but there was no reason to be rude about it. Kinda killed my vibe and we left and continued the night elsewhere where they happily served me water

Second time being here and it was amazing. We saw a four piece folk band. When the music starts, the place gets packed. The bartender was very nice and friendly.

Tiny bar. Junkyard band Crawdaddy Issues was awesome. Juan the Bartender is cool. You won't get a foo-foo drink here. But Juan will shake you up a good concoction. My complaint was drinking an old fashion in a plastic cup. Juan can't fix that. Choose a beer at this awesome divey bar. He remembered me and where I was from even two days later...who does that? Juan does that. Cause he does.

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.

Really cool dive bar. Highly recommended, great drinks and a decent beer list. Tiny place with typically a live musician. Worth the stop. When you're there, say high to the bartender from Chicago!

$55 for two doubles in a DIVE BAR is actually ridiculous. Idk if the bartender made a mistake or up-charged on purpose, (I've been here several times before and NEVER even paid close to that for my whole tab) but either way not acceptable. Upon reading reviews on other sites that say similar things about being charged more, I can safely say that I won't be back here. Truly a shame, as it's a great place to hear live music, but I'd rather not be charged double the price I should have paid.

Small bar with super friendly staff. Reasonsble prices, and the music was fantastic!! I would definitely go again.

This place was so fun! Great music, great bar, very very small. We appreciated having live music on Frenchman with no cover charge but the place is small and crowded. We first went on a Sunday night and we were actually able to score a couple of seats at a table. On Wednesday, we walked in, and we walked out. Great place, but super crowded and small.

This is a tiny NOLA bar on Frenchman Street. We enjoyed the Hobo Junkyard Band two nights in a row. Did I mention this place is tiny? Such a fun intimate spot with the crowd pushed up against the band ... it's like having a band play a party in your living room!

If I could give this bar a zero star review I would . Walked in bar tender ignored us. 5 different people walked in before us served them and kept ignoring us even though we clearly arrived before them. Racist ? Maybe we are Hispanic and everyone severed before us was not .kept waiting and still ignored us. Sad to say it was the only bad experience we had in New Orleans.

We finally found authentic NO music on a Saturday night. The Smoky Greenwell Band was playing. Starts at 9 most Saturday's. Wicked harmonica and sax. (I think the guy is famous) Bluesy. Will move you. No cover, just tips and reasonable cocktails. Discovered this really cool tiny bar last week. The bar service was great. Mostly standing room. Do yourselves a favor. Escape the Bourbon Street noise and check this place out when Smoky is there.

Absolutely love the vibe in this place - cozy, great music and a bartender with a smile, Andi! One of the best bars we visited in New Orleans!

Have your cash ready - it's cash only bar so don't even try to fuck around with bringing your credit card expecting them to take it and then bitch on Yelp because they don't when a million signs say "Cash Only" Anyway small venue so grab a spot and figure it out. Great music and drinks. (Grab some local Abita) Apple Barrel is the spot so if you don't know...now you know.

Love this place every other Monday the amazing band "Bread For Sale" plays from 6:00-9:30. Very good band playing authentic music you can't really find anywhere else. Make sure to check them out at the apple barrel.

Not gonna lie, every time I look at the name of this place I think of Nelly. The music here is so far from Nelly, but I'll tell you what, it was awesome. When we first walked in, there were two locals listening to the band and they yelled at us for bringing a beer in so we were scurrying out when the band said NO NO, you guys come in and hang out! It's totally fine! Allright now, we're off to a good start! Of course, I went up to the bar and ordered drinks directly from Apple Barrel proper when we got in. Pro-Tip #1: Ca$h only here! Apple Barrel Bar is one of the smallest spots on Frenchmen Street but I dare say it may just be the place with the most heart. This cozy bar had the greatest band with the singer jumping on the barrels inside playing the guitar above his head, behind his back, he was putting on a show! It was more of an acoustic type of show that some of the other straight jazz shows on the street and I truly enjoyed it. Beer selection wasn't vast but they were able to mix my friend up a Pimm's Cup. The man likes his cocktails! My favorite spot in all of Frenchmen Street! I could have stayed for a long while but it's so tiny, it get filled fast and there's hardly breathing room. Pro-Tip #2: Be sure to bring some extra cash to tip the down-ass band!

Strong, cheap/small drinks, pleasant music, comfortable lighting. Like this place already.

Tons of fun on Frenchman's street. Caught a great band there and then on to the next bar. Small fun local crowd

This was the last stop my friends and I made late on a Wednesday night. The bar is very old and very small, but has a lot of character. The Andre Lovett Band was playing the night we went and they were wonderful! It was a nice way to close out the evening. The bartender was very friendly, too. As most bars on Frenchmen street, it has a 1 drink minimum and they only take cash.

It's slow and we're waiting for our restaurant above to open, so we sat at the bar. If your trying to decide if it smells worse than outside from the piss smell its a toss up. The bartender (Norway Flag on neck, REPRESENT!) has a personality of a rock which really isn't saying much. Longest 30 minutes I spent in a smelly place unless you count the time I had the runs and was stuck in a Porta-potty.....

The sound of Bon Bon Vivant drew us in as we were mindlessly walking about. We stayed and had a drink for an hour, bought their CD and really enjoyed the music and the atmosphere. Will be back.

This is one of the best little music spots in NOLA. If you're looking for something that is a little more bluegrassy but still very New Orleans, this is a great place.

Cute place, nice music. The bartender would pick and choose who to give free shots to (usually to pretty girls to whom she would also give a full round of drinks for free and say "shhhh") in front of other patrons, even to a drunken guy who just asked just for water, she gave him a shot AND water and he said "I just wanted water". She was alone and seemed the queen of the club so it was her decision. Oh well.

Apple Barrel is too small, too crowded, and apparently loved by many. I am not one of those people. On a recent night I was perusing the Frenchmen Art Market when I decided that I could use some a/c, a beer, and some live music. Since Apple Barrel was the closest place, off I went. I was almost shocked when I entered at how small the place was. It was so small, and the layout so poor, that I had to squeeze by the band to get to the bar. Maybe that is part of the charm, but I felt like I was interrupting the singer's amazing rendition of "Crack Cocaine". There were a few tables (maybe five or so) across from the band, but they were completely full, as was the bar. I do give the bartenders credit as they were friendly and somewhat fast despite the large crowd. The beer that I received was served in a plastic cup, and cost $6.50. Making matters worse was the fact that the beer tasted awful. I am not sure what the cause of the skunk beer could have been, but I have had that particular beer many times before without issue. I understand lots of people love this bar. It just isn't for me.

Apple Barrel is the new Spotted Cat. In the last two years or so, the Spotted Cat has become crowded to the point that I don't even bother going anymore, even though that used to be the first place I'd head when I got to Frenchmen Street. These days, the Apple Barrel is where I usually end up--there's always great music, there's never a cover, and even when it's busy it's not so packed that you can't move and it's not even fun. People flow in and out, it's a great place to hang out between sets at d.b.a or elsewhere. The bar is cash only, which sucks but what can you do? Also, last night I learned that there's actually a one drink minimum at Apple Barrel, which is another reason I say it's the new Spotted Cat. The Cat has always had a one drink minimum, and it's more clearly posted than at the Apple Barrel. The only reason I know is because the band mentioned it, which was the first time I'd heard them say anything, so it was news to me. Fortunately, Apple Barrel is often the best place to go if you're trying to grab a drink and can't get near the bar (or even in the door) at another venue, so a one drink minimum is a pretty reasonable request. While you're there, don't forget to tip the band. If you like the music, it's worth a dollar or two, right? (It's almost September, so the college kids are back, and I realized that they have no idea what a tip jar is for. Trying to help spread the word. This needs to be covered in freshman orientation, I think. We need to give Tulane a call.) The music is great, it's usually the same blues band, and drinks are reasonable ($5.50 for call). Next time you walk by, pop in for a few songs and check it out. You'll be glad you did.

When I heard on Yelp that Apple Barrel was closing and the local Yelpers were sad, I bookmarked it to ensure we visited on our upcoming trip. Turns out Apple Barrel isn't closing, but ownership is changing. But I digress. The partner in crime is a big fan of live music, especially jazz, so it took no convincing to go to Apple Barrel. We excitedly headed over to Frenchmen our first night in town, a weeknight, prepared to be wowed. Maybe we picked a bad night, but we I don't get the hype - it's ok, but that's about as excited as I can get about the place. Apple Barrel is small, postage stamp small, with walls peppered with dollar bills. If you aren't into divey bars (like we are), you will probably hate it. The main door is right next to the band, which feels a little awkward entering mid-set. There's another door that goes upstairs to Adolfo's, a separate Italian restaurant. We saw several tourists enter through the bar, look confused like deer in headlights and be directed upstairs. Maybe Adolfo's needs better signage... We caught the tail end of a set, a classic rock cover band, and got a round of drinks. The follower was a solo artist with folky-country covers, not really our speed, but she had a nice voice. We probably would've stuck it out for a few more rounds had we felt a welcoming vibe as implied in some reviews. The crowd, who seemed to be regulars, was indifferent toward us at best; happy to talk to each other and pour us a drink, but that was about it. I'm glad to hear Frenchmen isn't losing a live music venue, but I just wasn't feeling Apple Barrel. PS Cash Only

Love this bar to sit and listen to live music while you wait for a table at Adolpho's! Very small and intimate place. Full bar and they will make any drink you request! Nice hideaway from busy Frenchmen street and some of the larger more crowded clubs.

AARP WILL SOON BE DUMPING SNOWBIRDS HERE This is one of the better Frenchman tourist traps. The earthy bartender and excellent guitar player were humorously self-deprecating. Obviously they'd taken the time to learn SELA 101. IT'S A TRAP NOT A DIVE like most of Frenchman Street, this bar was packed with tourists: uptight middle age Jerseyans and obnoxious middle aged Floridians. All were here because the kiosk tour vendor said it was "happening". It ain't... AND I REPEAT: FRENCHMAN IS A TOURIST TRAP do your homework, grab a Where Y'at magazine - our best music has left the hackneyed Marigny and Bywater and is now at bars on Freret, Tchoup, Oak, etc.

We loved this little hole-in-the-wall bar on Frenchmen Street. We were seduced by the sound of the music within and wandered in on a Tuesday night. We settled in and enjoyed some beers and some fantastic music from a really delightful band. This place feels like a hidden gem.

This place is tiny!!! kinda smelly, and can get super packed. I'll admit, i do hold a little grudge for cutting me off and kicking me out on my last night in New Orleans.... STILL, it's New Orleans and they have great free live local music every night of the week. Plus cheap beer. It's location on Frenchman Street is a bonus, if it's too hot and crowded to move, just make your way a few doors down to the Spotted Cat, or across the street to d.b.a. Washboard Chaz rocks the house Thursday nights. more good times.

Came across this tiny bar walking down Frenchman Street. There was a wonderful jazz band playing and no cover charge. Good beers too. Oh and the first place in the city with sane AC. I don't need icicles growing from my nose!

What kind of place doesn't accept credit cards, especially in a tourist area? It's rare that anyone carries cash. I would have spent more

Music was great, uplifting and energetic putting off good vibes. The bartender however was lacking any kind of personal connection and was clearly just there to get a paycheck at the end of the week. Gave him money for a drink and did not receive my change back and when I confronted him about it he played it off like someone else took my money. Won't see me back there.

This bar is right underneath the best restaurant (imo) in New Orleans (I'll have that review up a little later). Morgan (our bartender the evening we visited) was friendly, talkative, and funny. They had a blues singer to entertain those of us waiting for a table upstairs. They have a decent beer list and a cute little bar to sit at. A few "bros" wandered in and ordered a round of Millers, as well as Kamikaze shots. Morgan saw us side-eyeing these guys and encouraged them to pour their beers into a to-go cup and leave, which they did. We thanked him for that. Overall, this is a very chill place to unwind a bit.

This place on Tues night is place to be.... The band plays all the popular rock songs from Jimmy Hendricks to Metallica... I have never been disappointed coming here on Tue night. Now the place is not bigger than your living room so it can get crowded fast. So if your trying to rock out it would be where you are standing. I prefer to hang outside when it's packed the music is loud so sensitive people need not apply. But if your a rock junkie you will be right at home here. I don't drink so I have no idea what the prices or selection is... The bassist like to walk around while playing so don't be surprised if he decides to strum some cords next to you!

The Apple Barrel Bar offers a compact area with pricey drinks. It's a hole in the wall place with Barrels as tables for the novelty. All 9 of us squeezed in here and had a couple too many. I'm not sure what the fire code occupancy on this place is but its gotta be in the teens. If you are going to keep a tab going like we did, (bachelor party antics) make sure you have cash on hand, because it was a bit of a doozy throwing money at the bill like we were purchasing Park Place when it was actually a Baltic Avenue type of time.

The cutest (and smallest) bar on Frenchman Street....we walked in last one night and walked right past the band. I had to duck to avoid messing up the guitar player's groove. Cash only! The bar was super small but everyone had a smile on their face and was truly enjoying the environment, the music, etc. Great place! Cant wait to return.

The live music is really great, and the bartender was really helpful, had a wonderful personality, and make our drinks strong and quick. The specialty drinks pack a good punch for sure! Adolfo's is upstairs and we wouldn't have thought to come to the Apple Barrel if we weren't waiting on a table. The space is cozy, but I feel like we'll for sure be here again during our visit!

My personal favorite it's a little place so smaller groups would be better, but go stop in great prices and friendly staff and great live music. I will absolutely be back!

Had one of the best musical experiences of my life in the Apple barrel during jazzfest. We were across the street waiting for dumpstaphunk and came in for a drink. The band (I think Eric Klein and BLVD) we rocking and it was sooo small and sooo packed it was one big house party. There was no separation between the band and the listeners.... and they were really good musicians. That was a bigger highlight than the big name bands across the street.

love the music and the grimey atmosphere, but the bathrooms are absolutely disgusting.

crowded last stop of the night for a final drink and a bit of music. Blimey the music was really good, and I do love me a trio with a double bass player. No frills just good music

The venue is really small. When you walk in, it's the stage and you either go to the bar or one of the three barrels to sit. Drinks were alright here, not too bad price wise and taste wise.

The music was great but the bartender didn't seem to be all there.. I waited for a good while as he served everyone else it seemed.. by the time I got my drink it was more like he was ready to step out and I was just blocking his exit. I figured out soon enough it was all for a puff on what I'm pretty sure wasn't the nicotine stuff. If you're going out to enjoy the music, this place is loud and fun but cash only! so come with friends that have it if you don't just don't let Bryan sell you his shitty herb and serve you half ass pours in a city known for its poor boys.

Love this place. Great music, friendly staff and always a great vibe. Can't wait to get there again.

This place was awesome we late night partied in this place listening to the blues!!! We were a bit tired of Nola style band music so we wanted some home cooking. The blues was great and they had Modelo. It was hard to find modelo in Nola. The bar is small so you must muscle your way into the front to get a good view of the band.

There's really nothing bad to say about this little bar on Frenchman. I think it's often overlooked, since it is so small and unassuming. It's a great place to chill in the afternoon, grab a drink, listen to a little live music. I have been coming in with my ice waters and they have no problem supplying me with tons of ice, so that is awesome. Well drinks are $5 which is basically the standard price in this area. There really is nothing incredibly awesome or awful about this bar.

Did enjoy the Apple Barrel where we waited for a table in the restaurant upstairs. The music and the fun we had with other customers made the wait so much more than pleasant. Nicki behind the bar was lovely and chatted between serving. She introduced me to a famous New Orleans cocktail - the Hurricane - which was truly wonderful. I watched her making it and she put a lot of effort into it. The second one was even better. Well worth a visit.

Went Sat. night, while awaiting our table at Three Muses. Saw fantaz band: Bon Bon Vivant. Three Muses was a waste! too long to get our reservation: 1 hr. 40 mins. was more like 2 hrs. 30 mins. Band from Chicago??????????? What???????????????????????????? Take Apple Barrel anytime. Booze, no food. Dine on the music, OK?

We got there right when they opened. They were out of Jack, so my friend got Beam instead. The bartender was ok, not super friendly and not a jerk. The thing that stood out to me was the large amount of fruit flies that were covering the outside of the plastic cups and flying around... I have worked in bars and I know that they happen, but in this tiny of a bar they are very noticeable and should be taken care of..

SIMPLE: 1) Bad wine selection 2) dirty water glasses (make sure u ask for a Straw) 3) when we order the food it toked an hour to be ready even know they where 9 tables the ones they where helping/ serving. With 3 servers. So we wait it for an hour. 4) when the food came to the table, I only tasted my "Alfredo" pasta 3 times. And I stop cause it was BAD!!! No really Alfredo Sauce on it. The girl was a little RUDE TOO! When I told her that the pasta was bad! They even charge me for that pasta. I paid for it. And I leave a $8 dollars tip. No a good place to go!

The bartender was extremely rude. I walked in with all intention to spend money with a group of 10 but I wanted to use the facility beforehand. The bartender didn't even let me take my ID out before bearding me with questions and demands. She kept harassing us when we told her we were trying to figure out what we wanted and it was all together the rudest person I've ever encountered in NOLA.