Sink Your Teeth into the Rich History of New Orleans' Oldest Bar

Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop is more than just a bar – it's a time capsule of New Orleans' rich history and tradition. As the oldest bar in the city, Lafitte's has been serving up drinks and good company for over 300 years, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the city's unique heritage.

New Orleans is a city like no other, with a history that is as colorful as its vibrant culture. From the jazz clubs of Preservation Hall to the Cajun cuisine of Dooky Chase's Restaurant, the city is a melting pot of traditions that have been shaped by its complex and fascinating past. At the center of it all is Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, a bar that has been around since 1722, making it one of the oldest continuously operating bars in the United States.

As you step inside Lafitte's, you'll be transported back in time to an era when New Orleans was a major hub of pirate activity and smuggling operations. The bar's rustic, industrial-style decor is a testament to its age, with its wooden beams, brick walls, and ancient-looking plumbing fixtures. It's not hard to imagine the likes of Jean Lafitte, the infamous pirate and smuggler, himself sitting at a table, sipping a grog and swapping stories with his fellow buccaneers.

A Brief History of Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop has been around since 1722, making it one of the oldest bars in the United States. The bar's origins date back to the colonial era, when it was originally a blacksmith shop used to forge tools and equipment for the city's early residents. Over the years, the bar has changed hands numerous times, with each owner adding their own unique touch to the establishment.

Some of the most notable events in Lafitte's history include its association with the infamous pirate Jean Lafitte, who used the bar as a hideout and meeting place for his fellow smugglers. The bar also played a significant role in the War of 1812, when it was used as a refuge for American soldiers and sailors.

Notable Characters in Lafitte's History

Over the years, Lafitte's has been visited by a wide range of notable characters, including pirates, politicians, and even a few celebrities. Some of the most notable visitors include:

• Jean Lafitte, the infamous pirate and smuggler who used the bar as a hideout and meeting place
• Andrew Jackson, the future president of the United States, who used to visit the bar with his fellow soldiers
• Mark Twain, the famous author and humorist, who was known to visit the bar and regale patrons with tales of his adventures
• Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, who was said to have visited the bar and enjoyed a drink or two

Bar Traditions

Lafitte's has a number of traditions that date back to its early days as a blacksmith shop. Some of the most notable include:

• The "old timer's" rule, which dictates that anyone under 21 years old cannot enter the bar
• The tradition of the "Knights of the Blacksmith", a group of loyal patrons who are sworn to defend the bar and its traditions
• The " blacksmith's" ritual, which involves the bar staff performing a traditional blacksmithing ritual to ensure the bar's continued prosperity

Drinks and Cuisine

Lafitte's has a wide range of drinks and cuisine to suit every taste and preference. Some of the most notable include:

• The "Blacksmith's Brew", a special beer that is brewed exclusively for the bar
• The "Pirate's Punch", a fruity cocktail made with rum, fruit juice, and a splash of grenadine
• The "Jazz Chicken", a spicy Cajun dish made with chicken, andouille sausage, and a variety of herbs and spices
• The "Beignets", sweet fried dough pastries that are perfect for snacking on while enjoying a drink at the bar

Tips for Visiting Lafitte's

If you're planning to visit Lafitte's, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, with live music and a crowd of patrons that can range from rowdy to refined
• Be respectful of the bar's traditions and history, and try to avoid making a scene or disturbing the other patrons
• Don't be afraid to try some of the bar's unique drinks and cuisine, and be sure to ask the staff for recommendations
• Be prepared for a steep stairway that leads down to the bar, and don't be afraid to get a little dirty or dusty

FAQ

Q: Is Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop really the oldest bar in the United States?
A: Yes, Lafitte's has been around since 1722, making it one of the oldest continuously operating bars in the country.

Q: Can I smoke inside the bar?
A: No, smoking is not allowed inside the bar, but there is a designated smoking area outside.

Q: Is Lafitte's haunted?
A: While there have been reports of paranormal activity at Lafitte's, there is no concrete evidence to prove that the bar is haunted.

Q: Can I get a tour of the bar?
A: Yes, the bar offers guided tours of its historic interior, which include information about its history and traditions.

Contact Information

If you're interested in visiting Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, here is some contact information to get you started:

Address: 941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Phone: (504) 522-5400

Email: [info@lafittesblacksmith