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Jewel of the South

New Orleans

• The Best Bar in South USA 2026, sponsored by Mr Black

Jewel of the South is a temple to New Orleans culture and the exquisite cocktail skills of co-founder, Southern cocktail pioneer Chris Hannah. Located in a renovated 1830s Creole cottage, Jewel's courtyard and wood-framed parlour rooms provide a true oasis within the bustling French Quarter. Throughout the cosy rooms, there are nods to NOLA's storied history, like vintage musical fliers and portraits of Louisiana luminaries. In the Southern surroundings, you'll find signature Southern service so good it earned the bar the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award in 2024. But perhaps the greatest nod to NOLA is behind Hannah's zinc-plated bar.

The award-winning modern classics pay tribute to local legends via Brandy Crusta and Hannah's take on a French 75. He built his name reviving classic drinks and his vast knowledge of historic ingredients is on display, like the Sazerac that includes Rancio Sec and Madeira along with the standard whiskey and bitters. A rotation of seasonal creations, such as the Epiphany Punch (house sherry blend, raspberry rooibos cordial, lemon) round out the drinks programme. Providing a natural complement, the kitchen offers indulgences through its Wednesday night 'Casual Caviar' happy hour and decadent dishes like the foie gras parfait served with duck fat brioche and strawberries and the fried pork chop with choux gnocchi and chasseur (classic French stew). At Jewel, the superb drinks menu and ambience offer the opportunity to soak in the Crescent City's past while simultaneously sipping on the future.

Retaining its title for a fourth year, Jewel of the South is named The Best Bar in South USA 2026, sponsored by Mr Black.

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