Barrel Proof

"This low-lit, low-key bar serves as a kind of introduction to the Lower Garden District, given its location at the start of the neighborhood on Magazine Street right past Calliope. It matches the LGD’s hip but classic vibe — not overly pretentious or try-hard, just funky and cool. The succinct cocktail list is simple and straightforward but expertly crafted, while the whiskey, bourbon, and beer lists steal the show. And, like any great bar dedicated to drinks, the food is done entirely by pop-ups, consistently hosting some of the best in town." - Eater Staff, Beth D'Addono

"For the sixth year running, hugely popular Christmas pop-up bar Miracle has taken up residency at LGD bourbon dive Barrel Proof, transforming it into a holiday oasis. Among the twelve specialty drinks on the cocktail menu is the Jingle Balls Nog, a hot and creamy drink with cognac, cream sherry, almond milk, cream, egg, vanilla, and nutmeg; and the hot buttered rum with aged Jamaican rum, velvet falernum, mixed spiced butter, oat milk, and nutmeg. Part of the fun is the festive glassware; so try ‘em all." - Clair Lorell

"This low-lit, low-key bar serves as a kind of introduction to the Lower Garden District, given its location at the start of the neighborhood on Magazine Street right past Calliope. It matches the LGD’s hip but classic vibe — not overly pretentious or try-hard, but funky and cool nonetheless. The succinct cocktail list is simple and straightforward but expertly crafted, while the whiskey, bourbon, and beer lists steal the show. And, like any great bar dedicated to drinks, the food is done entirely by pop-ups, consistently hosting some of the best in town." - Eater Staff

"Located just west of downtown in the Lower Garden District, Barrel Proof is a spacious whiskey bar that serves lots of cocktails and under-$10 beer and shot combos. Really though, you come here for the 390 varieties of whiskey that they pour. If you get hungry after a few drinks, they serve food until midnight from local pop-ups like Matchbook Kitchen and Flamme." - team infatuation, zella palmer

"Matchbook Kitchen is at Barrel Proof Friday through Monday." - Beth D'Addono