Brandan K.
Yelp
Bourbon Street Drinkery is everything that's wrong with the tourist-trap bar scene in New Orleans. I walked in looking to enjoy the music and grab a drink, but apparently expecting basic human decency was asking too much.
After ordering, I asked for a simple glass of tap water--you know, the free, legally required kind most bars don't blink at. Instead, the staff insisted I buy a bottle of water. When I politely declined and asked again for regular tap water, I was met with condescension and an ultimatum: pay for the bottled water or leave.
When I held my ground--because I wasn't about to be gouged for basic hydration--I was kicked out. Literally shown the door for refusing to pay for something that should be offered as a courtesy. I wasn't drunk, belligerent, or causing a scene--I just didn't want to be extorted for a bottle of water.
The staff acted like customer service was beneath them, and management clearly supports price-gouging over hospitality. In a city known for generosity and warmth, Bourbon Street Drinkery is a cold, overpriced disappointment.
Do yourself a favor--there are countless better bars on Bourbon Street. This one isn't worth your time, money, or thirst.