Frenchmen St

Notable street · Marigny

Frenchmen St

Notable street · Marigny

4

New Orleans, LA

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Frenchmen St by Photo by Spencer Grant / agefotostock
Frenchmen St by Photo by Spencer Grant / agefotostock
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Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
Frenchmen St by null
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Highlights

Street alive with live music, art markets, and great vibes  

Google Rating
4.7
(407)

New Orleans, LA Get directions

spottedcatmusicclub.com

$$

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New Orleans, LA Get directions

spottedcatmusicclub.com

$$

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Last updated

Oct 26, 2025

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@eater

Look Around Morrow Steak, New Orleans’s Vibiest Restaurant Yet - Eater New Orleans

"Spicy Mango is Morrow's first Caribbean fusion restaurant, set to open later this year on Frenchmen Street." - Clair Lorell

https://nola.eater.com/2024/6/26/24180690/morrow-steak-open-new-orleans-vibiest-restaurant-yet
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@afar

"Frenchmen Street is, more or less, the local-music version of Bourbon Street. It also has its share of tourists trundling about with go-cups in hand, but they’re drawn more by the music than the drink. Plan to spend an evening (things start to pick up around 8 p.m., earlier on weekends) along a three-block stretch of small, informal clubs where there’s often no cover (give generously and give often when the bucket comes around), or at most $5 or $10. Notable clubs include the Spotted Cat, the Maison, Blue Nile, D.B.A., the Apple Barrel, and Snug Harbor. Earlier in the evenings, there’s often an impromptu brass band at the corner of Chartres and Frenchmen. Between sets, take a moment to browse the night art markets, the largest of which is next to the Spotted Cat."

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The Best Things to Do in New Orleans
View Postcard for Frenchmen St
@afar

"Frenchmen Street is, more or less, the local-music version of Bourbon Street. It also has its share of tourists trundling about with go-cups in hand, but they’re drawn more by the music than the drink. Plan to spend an evening (things start to pick up around 8 p.m., earlier on weekends) along a three-block stretch of small, informal clubs where there’s often no cover (give generously and give often when the bucket comes around), or at most $5 or $10. Notable clubs include the Spotted Cat, the Maison, Blue Nile, D.B.A., the Apple Barrel, and Snug Harbor. Earlier in the evenings, there’s often an impromptu brass band at the corner of Chartres and Frenchmen. Between sets, take a moment to browse the night art markets, the largest of which is next to the Spotted Cat."

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The Perfect Day in New Orleans
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@travelleisure

21 Best Things to Do in the French Quarter of New Orleans

"Enjoy the nightlife on Frenchmen Street, home of restaurants, jazz clubs, and lively nightlife." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/city-vacations/things-to-do-french-quarter-new-orleans
View Postcard for Frenchmen St
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Demian S.

Yelp
Number one jazz spot on Frenchman Small cover charge to hear some of the best musicians in New Orleans Get there early or it's standing room only Wish it was a little easier to get to the bar sometimes or maybe that's a good thing
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Rick H.

Yelp
Visiting New Orleans, it was recommended that we try to listen to some music at the spotted cat. Very laid-back bar atmosphere, ended up being mostly standing room only. We were able to get a seat when some folks left between shows. Their website suggests that in lieu of cover. There is a one drink minimum, but it was clear that many were not abiding by that. The music was great. Glad we went. I'm not in a position to recommend management of someone else's place.
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Ani A.

Yelp
Came in for jazz, left with a drink in my hand to salute to open carry. This venue has artists and musicians playing day and night. Not much seating is available but can get crowded at night. Make it a stop to check out on your Frenchman street crawl.
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Nikki B.

Yelp
I was spending the day with a dear friend of mine that lives in the area and she suggested we go to Frenchman Street to hear some good music. Locals will tell you that Frenchman is the place to go for live music. As you walk along, you'll hear the sounds of jazz, reggae, and blues coming out of the clubs. Our first stop was The Spotted Cat - a no frills club with cheap drinks and great music. There are a few places to sit inside and some tables outside. They don't serve food, but you'll hear some good live jazz. The bartender and the lady at the door were both very sweet. The band was great. They had a good groove, and the singer had an incredible voice. He also entertained us between songs with his witty humor. We came on a Sunday afternoon as there was no cover. I'm not sure if there is a charge at night. *Live music daily *Dog friendly
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Charity V.

Yelp
When I think of my happy place, the Spotted Cat immediately comes to mind. My husband and I have spent many hours here listening to the incredibly talented bands and enjoyed every minute. It is a snug place that packs up, sometimes it is standing room only but it feels great to be surrounded by so many people who appreciate amazing music. The staff is really helpful and they make drinks FAST! Their Pimm's cups are the best I have tasted: refreshing and SO flavorful. I highly recommend this place to anyone visiting NOLA.
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Gale R.

Yelp
Fun bar with New Orleans amazing jazz music and creative drinks. The catnip drink had mango vodka, pineapple juice amongst other mixers, and was delicious . Solid service.
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Joyce D.

Yelp
We happened to find our way here during a weekday afternoon hearing the band play. As you enter inside, it's relatively limited in space with limited seating and a few tables. But the music is great. Good vibes with a couple dancing it helps to keep you staying longer than you can imagine. Located on Frenchman street. With so many options of venues to wander into to hear some jazz music. This is a neat no frills type of bar.
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Melissa S.

Yelp
We visited Wednesday Dec 4th around 8pm. This was our first music venue in New Orleans. I didn't know what to expect. I didn't expect the $5 cover charge. They checked our ids, we paid the cover, got our hand stamped and we were in. Everyone was standing around listening to the band play. Later I see that there is a bench along the wall where some were sitting. We quickly made our way to the back so not to block anyone's view. We actually found a couple of seats across from the bar. I planted myself and enjoyed the music. They were really good. At the end of each set they walked around and collected tips. I think that helped as I didn't want to loose my seat, but I still wanted to tip them. They weren't selling any cds, but should have. I would have bought one. This was a really good start to our music listening to week.
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Courtney O.

Yelp
When you ask people where to go on Frenchmen street, you'll probably have heard about the Spotted Cat Music Club. It's popular for its focus on music! This tiny club is no frills. It's a small room with no food, just great music. What I'm not sure about is the cover fee. Sometimes they charge, other times they don't. We went on a Monday night, but we still had to pay a $5 cover even though the place was virtually empty. We did get the chance to hear a great music group and drinks weren't too pricey. My biggest suggestion is that regardless of where you go, it's about the music you want to hear. Listen by the window and make a decision that way. Almost all of the other places don't charge a cover. We did have a very enjoyable experience here though, especially because it wasn't too busy, so we were able to well spread out.
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Brandon B.

Yelp
My girlfriend and I went to New Orleans in late October. We were wandering around one night and stumbled upon this cool music club. The atmosphere was really laid-back and sophisticated. It's more for an older crowd, but we didn't mind. We didn't try any of their food, but their drinks were pretty good. I loved the classic vibe of the place. They had a few classic bands playing too. If you're looking for a more mature and chill atmosphere, away from the crazy crowds of Bourbon Street, I'd definitely recommend this place.
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Eric B.

Yelp
The only reason I'm giving The Spotted Cat Music Club 4 Stars instead of 5 is that my wonderful visit was cut short. My Son had indicated that he wanted to hear some live music while in NOLA, and after some research, I decided on the Spotted Cat. So the 3 of us (with Gayle) took the relatively long walk to Frenchmen Street to check it out. We arrived near the end of the afternoon set. My guess is that this place gets more crowded into the evening, as during our time here, there was plenty of standing room inside and maybe even a seat or 2 if I looked hard enough. With my 1 drink minimum, I enjoyed the music inside and by myself. As it turned out, David felt overwhelmed by being in a not so crowded room and preferred to sit just outside the entrance and listen from there. I did that too at first, but felt that this was cheating by enjoyment and the Spotted Cat. Even my inside enjoyment was cut short as Gayle soon signaled that it was time to go. The Spotted Cat is too good for this type of crap. God I hope there's a next time!
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Anna B.

Yelp
Fun venue to listen to live jazz music. The drinks are a little pricey but worth it, their Moscow Mules are strong and tasty. Not much spots to sit and listen to the music, so otherwise you'll have to stand and enjoy your drink while watching the live band and singer that is currently performing. Recommended jazz club in NOLA.
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Sarah S.

Yelp
On my list of must dos while in NOLA, the birthplace of jazz, was to go to a jazz club one night. This one was recommended by our server at the Hermes Bar (Antoine's) as well as our tour guide on the Hop on Hop Off Bus and it did not disappoint. Located on Frenchmen Street, this place which has been around since the 90s, is popular with locals and tourists alike. Cover charge is $5 plus tip for the musicians. I think there are three sets. Very cozy, there are a handful of bar tables, barstools and 2 tiers of benches but mostly standing room. The band plays in the front so we couldn't see them from our table in the back. But we were happy to be able to sit down while listening to real live New Orleans jazz which is so much a part of the flavor of this cool and unique city. No servers walking around so you must order at the bar. I had a cranberry mule which was VERY GOOD!!! Next door was a small bazaar of vendors selling art, jewelry, etc... walk along Frenchman Street and you will see some other music clubs. Laissez les bon temps rouler!

David F.

Yelp
We had a good time here, came twice during our visit. Tried other places on Frenchmen St, but liked this one the best. A bit too crowded, but good music.
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Gabrielle H.

Yelp
The music was "meh." I don't think they have food. Not much seating. So, people looked at my friend and I so much bc they were annoyed they didn't get our table. No cover charge, but 1 drink minimum per person. It's not easy to get to the bar.
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Marianne F.

Yelp
Great little jazz spot. ATM inside, inexpensive drinks. No food, but there are some options up the street for a bite. Highly recommended!
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Emerald M.

Yelp
We came on a mostly quiet Saturday afternoon and it was standing room only. I cant imagine how packed it must get in the evenings. We stayed for a round of jack and cokes, didn't try anything fancy, bar was at capacity. Got to listen to a catchy little bluegrass band that was thoroughly enjoyable. Nice old spot with a unique vibe.
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Athena B.

Yelp
This jazz club is a MUST!!! It's located directly on Frenchmen Street, so it's very easily accessible. We got lucky and happened to catch a live jazz fest on Frenchman, so we were in the neighborhood already! We thoroughly enjoyed the live, jazz music that played! The band was so much fun and super engaging!! Highly recommend this jazz club! To note, it is on the smaller side with only one story, but when we went, it was not super packed.
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Flannery G.

Yelp
We decided to visit the Spotted Cat during our mid week visit to NOLA. Located on Frenchman St, which from what we were told, is a more mature and safer nighttime location then the famous Bourbon Street. It's a very small venue and seating was very limited. We were looking for a place to enjoy some local jazz music, good drinks and some local fun. The live music was awesome but we left fairly quickly due to the unfriendly bartender and her watered down cocktails. They didn't serve any type of food or we actually mat have stayed longer and given the bartender another chance to do better. Great music but aside from that, not much else going for it.
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Victoria G.

Yelp
Listening to local musicians here was a highlight of the trip. We thought we came early and there was already a crowd, a sign of the popularity. We lucked out that a couple friended us and we got their table when they left. We both enjoyed the Cat nip and pretended we were in Miami instead of freezing weather. There was no food that night and we ate plenty along the way to there. I'm happy we got to hang out and listen before the next band came out. I highly recommend.
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Mansta A.

Yelp
If you want to be crammed into a tiny room, shoulder to shoulder, can't see the band or floor in front of you , then this is the place. People go on and on about how great the musicians are. It's okay and overhyped. I heard better music at any other place I walked into on the same street. We came here with a group of 10 and all of us wanted to leave immediately. Bartender was quite nice. But I would NEVER go back. $10 cover for entry and 1 drink minimum per set.
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Chelsea C.

Yelp
This is a very cool and well-known spot in Nola. Buy your tickets in advance and if you want to have a seat, go early! Always a great time, and don't bring your car if you can avoid it parking rough. We go here whenever we visit. It's my son-in-law's favorite spot. I have a cute little market on the side of local artists for unique souvenirs It's very small venue, most people stand. The performers are interactive, usually and amazing! Point there's something about the acoustics that make it very rich. You'll have a great time. You should definitely go!
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Sheila R.

Yelp
The Spotted Cat Music Club is so much fun!! It's a small and intimate club with live music starting in the afternoon and going until late. We visited at opening time after having a boozy brunch on a Sunday. We got a few stools and a little table of our own. We enjoyed some local beer and a passion fruit flavored French 75. That French 75 was sooo good! The club filled up quickly. We loved getting to relax and listen to some Jazz. They started with some slower songs and then got the party started about 30 minutes later. People were dancing, and everyone was enjoying themselves. If you are in NOLA, I highly suggest you visit this club!!
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Sigrid W.

Yelp
Walking down Frenchmen Street we entered here on a whim and I am so happy we did. Actually I think my friends were aiming for this venue. There are only a handful of seating options and we managed to score seats at the bar for all 3 of us. The band was starting to play and it was fabulous. Quickly the place was packed and we could no longer see the band directly. However, there were mirrors mounted above the stage which allowed us to see at least some of the band playing. We opted for some canned drinks and they were good. The bar itself is really nice and I'm sure you can get any drink you want. The beer and cocktail list is shown on monitors. A great touch free option. The bar tenders are on it, quick and efficient, you will have your drink in no time. Come here for a nice party atmosphere and great bands.
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Ashley D.

Yelp
On a recent visit we finally made it down Frenchman street. I cannot tell you how much more I enjoyed the vibes here compared to the chaos of the exhibitionist Bourbon street. As a visitor, I think many of us 30+ year olds dream of coming to New Orleans to enjoy some music in a chill, relaxed environment and the Spotted Cat was the perfect place for this. The drinks were good and music was even better. I haven't had many Pimms cups to compare but I have to say this one was refreshing and came with souvenir to-go cup so it easily became my favorite. We came in during the day on a Saturday so were able to just miss the cover charge but with the experience we had the cover would be worth it anytime of day. Can't wait to go back next trip.
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Haley S.

Yelp
Incredible New Orleans jazz bar. It's easy to sit or stand and get lost in the music. It's equally easy to get up and groove to the tunes. This is a classic dive bar feel-- smells like beer, funny signs and cool art every where, and bathrooms covered in graffiti and stickers. We really enjoyed hanging out here. $5 cover on a Friday night is well worth it.
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Pamela F.

Yelp
Great for live music. Probably my favorite place we popped into the entire trip. We stayed over three hours it was so much fun.
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Nina L.

Yelp
Had a great time at the spotted cat on a Thursday night. Loved Jumbo shrimp. We stayed for most of their set and the band that came on before. My Kuya working the door is fabulous. Apparently, he was also super friendly to my Filipino friend visiting Nola at a totally different time. I had a couple cocktails that were both tasty. Both bartenders were very attentive. Bathroom was relatively clean for a bar. Can always count on the spotted cat for a good time on Frenchman street.
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Saphace A.

Yelp
A fun, upbeat jazz club that we went to two nights in a row! The live music is the best part! It gets pretty crowded here, but you can often find a spot to stand close to the stage. Flagging down the bartender isn't hard either. Drinks seemed reasonable priced. It was only a $5 cover per person. Not bad at all!
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Aimee K.

Yelp
We came here on vacation on a recommendation from our Lyft driver and were not disappointed! We enjoyed the live music and enjoyed a few tasty beers while we were there. We stopped in after a jazz brunch because we were in the mood for a little more live jazz and wanted to hang with the locals! I think they had just opened for the day so we may have been the first ones there but we think we got the best seats in the house to people watch and hear the music! We were there for about 2 hours and saw people come and go. We don't recall that there was any food here but since we had already eaten we weren't looking for it either. It was such a wonderful treat to be introduced to Spotted Cat and we're very thankful we got the recommendation! We will definitely be back again as it's high on our list of repeats in the Big ! Easy! We highly recommend it and suggest checking out their live music calendar!
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Maryn P.

Yelp
I need to try the Spotted Cat next time I am in NOLA because I've heard amazing things about it. We must've visited on an off day at an off time. It was a Tuesday at about 4 pm and there was no music or places to sit. You can tell they get super busy because there are only chairs at the bar, on the inside parameter, and outside. We ended up ordering a drink and taking it to go because of the lack of places to sit and no entertainment. I am super bummed because I wanted to love this place but it must've been just a bad time to go.
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Fred S.

Yelp
Great jazz bar. High praise forTerry Peters and the Parking Meters. Their updated version of New Orleans jazz is the real deal. I'm hard of hearing. Even so, they came through because the equipment and moving the lead around worked. It ain't fancy, just real good. Go.
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Gennaro M.

Yelp
If you are in NOLA, cannot miss this place. No food but drinks as you want. Service like any other dine bar, ambience the top! The music is just amazing. jazz, jazz and more jazz. You can listen some music, get out for a walk and came back ( no additional fee). Don't miss this spot in the center of the French Quarter.
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Nette B.

Yelp
Stopped by but there were no seats available. Standing room only. You can hang out at the patio in front of the restaurant and enjoy the music. Got a drink and enjoyed a little but of music, then we continued to bar hop.
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Brian F.

Yelp
The Spotted Cat was recommended to me as a place to check out some live music so we made sure to stop by. It's located on Frenchmen Street just a little north and a short walk over from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. There was a $5 cover on a Monday night and we got a stamp on our hand for re-entry. It was packed the entire time we were here so if you want to stand in the front or want a front-row seat, I'd recommend getting here early. My first drink was the cat old fashioned ($14.50) which was sweeter because of the aperol. My second drink was the just peachy ($14.50) which was peachy and fizzy but overall just tasted artificially sweet. The cocktails were just okay given the prices, and being handed the drinks in a small plastic cup normally meant for water didn't give me a great first impression either. At a certain point if there are tons of people standing and you're in the back you won't be able to see a thing. If the music is what you're looking for (and why wouldn't you not be), come earlier in the day for smaller crowds.
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Kareem A.

Yelp
We had so many folks recommend visiting this spot for live music. We found ourselves here like 3 times in two days. It's really accessible and nice to see such good talent coming through. My only warning, the old fashioned was the strongest I've ever had. Not sure if it's always like that, but I definitely had a blurry evening after one of those. Service was great!
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Keith R.

Yelp
This review is based sorely on the live music and ambience. It's entirely too crowded, (which I love) with patrons who love and appreciate authentic New Orleans jazz music! Swaying with the music, sweating in the dark, and surrounded by the synergy of others who love the same is intoxicating. The live performances are amazing and can literally transport you back to atime where ragtime, jazz, and blues were all being created. If being amongst the crowd is not your vibe, you can sit outside in front of the place in a little patio and listen too.
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Louie G.

Yelp
Excellent music venue!!! We went here to see the Paradise Jazz Band. They started when the club opened at 2 pm. There was NO COVER, the band was AWESOME, the bar service was excellent, the drink prices were very fair, & the band played for more than 3 hours!!! An EXCELLENT way to spend an afternoon in New Orleans!!!
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Connie H.

Yelp
We came in to listen to the live jazz music. Nice lively and fun atmosphere. Good service.
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J. R.

Yelp
We had a fantastic time at the event. Dominick Grillo & The Frenchmen Street All-Stars were amazing, and the bartenders were friendly. Be prepared for a standing room only venue.
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Tiffanie S.

Yelp
Best way to spend my last night in Nola. The bathrooms smell vile but sweet bartenders and the Friday night opening band the cotton mouth kings were phenomenal. People here were fun, swing dancing and lots of laughs!

Jay B.

Yelp
One of the best spots anywhere for great live jazz! Get there early ... it always gets crowded!
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Dawn M.

Yelp
Great place to find some local music & local well-known musicians. No cover charge so remember to tip the band. There's a one drink minimum. They have a full bar and a wide selection of local beers. Be prepared to pay a little bit more for the local brew, a Port Orleans Brewery bacchus blonde was $8 per can, as were other cans of beer up to $10, a mixed drink $11, glass of wine $10. Seating is limited, so be prepared to stand.
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Alyssa A.

Yelp
We were recommended here for a good Jazz club, and it ended up being a great recommendation! Local jazz bands play here and, while the venue is small with minimal seating, it was a great time with great jazz music. They charged a $5/person cover charge to get in, but it was more than worth it. The bar can get quite crowded as is typical, but the bartenders are efficient. They have good local beer and house cocktails. Overall, a great time here and definitely worth a stop for good jazz music.
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Natali R.

Yelp
Get there early for a good spot to see the band if not if you're not tall it will just be a good listen to the performing band. Cover charge is $5 but you could come in/out at your leisure all evening with a 1 drink purchase per set.
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Veronica Z.

Yelp
Went on a Sunday night where they had a $10 entry fee. The music was sooo good I was so impressed by the band they're very talented. Classic jazz music is a must in New Orleans I would definitely recommend.
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Alex G.

Yelp
Super fun music club. No frills here but the staff couldn't be nicer or more accommodating. The band was great. We ordered pizza to be delivered there and the bartenders brought us paper plates and utensils for it without us even asking. Will definitely go back next time I'm in Nola.
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Sean A.

Yelp
Get out of the FQ and experience other parts of NOLA. At night a far better option then Bourbon St is Frenchmen Street. And an iconic stop there is this small and popular jazz music venue. Other bars and venues and a night art market right next door. Drinks are reasonable and flowing, the crowd is jumping and the music was great. But don't expect a chair and sitting. But you can also be glad not stepping over vomit and 22 fraternity/sorority kids. A better crowd other then some banker suits that came and .... Another story. The only negative is there is a smell of humidity infused humanity and the restrooms are horrid. But the music a d environment were just what I wanted on my trip.
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Kyle M.

Yelp
This place is legit. If you want to enjoy some live Jazz music a bit further off the beaten Path than a lot of other French Quarter destinations (only a bit though) this is a great spot to do it. The stage is pretty small and up front leading to a pretty intimate feeling show. It will be busy on a weekend and the bar will be packed though so be forewarned. We saw the Shake 'em up Jazz band while we were in town and they put on a really good show so if you are thinking about going and they are playing I'd recommend trying to catch them.