Planning a trip to the French Quarter? You simply cannot overlook a stay at the iconic Hotel Monteleone, a true literary and cocktail landmark in New Orleans. This historic gem, situated in the heart of the Vieux Carré, has been family-owned and operated by five generations of the Monteleone family since its debut in 1886. A Literary Legacy
More than just a beautiful piece of Beaux-Arts architecture, the Hotel Monteleone is a National Historic Landmark and an official literary landmark. Its deep connection to the literary world led the Friends of the Library Association to bestow this rare distinction.
Inspiration for Famous Authors
Imagine drawing inspiration from the same halls and barstools as some of America’s most celebrated authors, including:
- William Faulkner, who honeymooned at the hotel and reportedly wrote part of his novel The Sound and the Fury during his long stay.
- Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, who were known to frequent the bar.
- Truman Capote, a regular at the Carousel Bar, who playfully claimed to have been born inside the establishment.
The Carousel Bar: Still Spinning After All These Years
The hotel’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the Carousel Bar & Lounge. Opened in 1949, it holds the distinction of being New Orleans’ first and only rotating bar. The 25-seat circular bar completes one full revolution every 15 minutes, offering patrons a subtle, unique experience as they sip their drinks. It’s no wonder that a reservation here is essential for any trip.
Atmosphere and Entertainment
The atmosphere is further enhanced by live entertainment offered every Wednesday through Sunday. In a 1992 renovation, the bar was transformed to resemble an ostentatious merry-go-round, complete with fiber optics in the ceiling to create the appearance of a starry night sky.
Home of the Vieux Carré
For the tipsiest of terriers, the Carousel Bar is a pilgrimage site for cocktail enthusiasts. It’s the birthplace of the famed Vieux Carré cocktail, which was created here in 1938 by bartender Walter Bergeron.
The Classic Vieux Carré Recipe
The classic recipe includes:
- ¾ oz Sazerac Rye Whiskey
- ¾ oz Cognac
- ¾ oz Sweet Vermouth
- 1 tsp (¼ oz) Bénédictine D.O.M.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
- Garnish: Lemon twist or maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Combine: Add the rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and both types of bitters into a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir: Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture for 30–45 seconds until it is thoroughly chilled and slightly diluted.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass (lowball glass) over a large, fresh ice cube.
- Garnish: Express the oils from a lemon peel over the glass, then drop it in. Alternatively, garnish with a cherry.
The Early Access Experience
A fantastic way to experience this historic spot is by securing a seat for the exclusive Carousel Bar Early Access Experience, which is a private, intimate session limited to a small group. You’ll get to delve into the bar’s history, hear tales of legendary patrons, and indulge in a complimentary cocktail.
The Hotel Monteleone is an essential stop for anyone visiting New Orleans, blending rich history, a literary soul, and world-class cocktails into one unforgettable experience.
Room Types and Accommodations
The Hotel Monteleone offers a variety of room types to suit different needs and preferences, ranging from cozy traditional rooms to luxurious suites. Each room is designed to reflect the hotel’s historic charm while providing modern comforts.
We stayed in a Vieux Carré suite that was 500 sf, with a seating room, king size bed, and grand bathroom with jacuzzi tub. A perfect place for our home base for the final weekend of Mardi Gras. After staying in many, many different hotels in the French Quarter Hotel Monteleone is our absolute favorite. Since the Monteleone is on the edge of the French Quarter, it is easier to arrive by car then other hotels deeper in the area.
Cheers, Amy
Planning more Crescent City adventures? Explore all of our New Orleans travel guides on The Tipsy Terrier, including our takes on Mardi Gras balcony parties on Bourbon Street, Bloody Mary Ghost Tours , a Krewe Ball at the Super Dome, classic New Orleans restaurants, and our insider experience with the Krewe of Orpheus.