If you’re someone who enjoys partaking in the consumption of libations, you probably have an establishment you consider to be your favorite bar.
In Louisiana, there’s a little something for everyone, as the state is known for its lively nightlife and numerous, unique bars.
The city of New Orleans, especially, has something for everyone, with a number of high-end cocktail bars and lesser-known dives that have a welcoming atmosphere.
Two New Orleans bars on Esquire’s “Best Bars in America 2025” list
In order to figure out which bars are the best in the U.S., Esquire asked writers and staffers where they go to drink when the world gives them the blues, and two individuals named two different New Orleans bars.
Bud Rip’s Old 9th Ward Bar
Bud Rip’s Old 9th Ward Bar, located at 900 Piety St., is an authentic neighborhood bar in the old Ninth Ward and Bywater area in New Orleans. This bar not only serves excellent drinks and brews from its long black bar, but it also has a rockin’ jukebox, a pool table and outdoor seating.
This bar is a favorite among locals, and is a hidden gem within the vibrant city of New Orleans. The bar is open daily, from 3 p.m. until 3 a.m. on Sundays through Fridays and from 1 p.m. until 3 a.m. on Saturdays.
Molly’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
Molly’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
Molly’s Irish Pub, located at 732 Toulouse St., is a dark, ‘low-key’ Irish bar with Guinness on tap, great cocktails, drink specials, as well as a pool table, darts and a jukebox. This Irish pub is famous for its frozen Irish coffee and music selection, as the jukebox’s tunes range from classic Motown, New Wave to Indie and Classic Rock.
This bar is a favorite among locals, found beyond the thrill of Bourbon Street. The bar is open Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m. until 6 a.m., and Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. until 7 a.m.
The best bars in America for 2025 according to Esquire
The Union Club: Missoula, Montana
Schmuck: New York, New York
Lorem Ipsum: Charlotte, North Carolina
La Descarga: Los Angeles, California
Marie’s Crisis: New York, New York
Farmshop: Santa Monica, California
Bud Rip’s Old 9th Ward Bar: New Orleans, Louisiana
Skyline Lounge at Legoland Hotel: Carlsbad, California
Dan Sung Sa: Los Angeles, California
Crucible: Asheville, North Carolina
Meetinghouse: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Hemlock: Catskill, New York
Too Soon: Portland, Oregon
Schubas: Chicago, Illinois
Molly’s Irish Pub: New Orleans, Louisiana
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@Gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: What are the best bars in New Orleans? Here’s what Esquire says