Of all the interesting museums around town, one of the most unique has to be a salute to the cocktail. Here in New Orleans, the cocktail is considered by many to be the quintessential drink that defines the city's personality. From the famous Hurricanes at Pat O'Brien's, to the traditional Sazerac, to the simple martini, New Orleanians embrace the cocktail as a lifeline to civilization. What better place to celebrate its history than here?
Museum of the American Cocktail
Recently, the Museum of the American Cocktail opened in its temporary quarters in the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum on Chartres Street in (where else?) the French Quarter. The brainchild of collectors, historians, and mixologists, the Museum will feature exhibits of vintage cocktail shakers, glasses, Prohibition artifacts, and many other relics connected to the cocktail and its enthusiasts.
The Professor Jerry Thomas Bar
Within the museum is the Professor Jerry Thomas Bar, a re-creation of a turn-of-the-century bar where you can sip a cocktail while learning more about its individual origin. What a great way to have a history lesson.
Seminars
There will be a series of mixology seminars given by preeminent mixologists and held at various holidays and festivals such as Mardi Gras and Jazzfest. At Dale DeGroff's Mixology Seminars, learn the art of making such splendid fusions as a Strawberry Martini or Sidecar, and enjoy your creations. Then get a go-cup and walk around the rest of the quarter. Explore the many restaurants and bars where you might fancy other "takes" on your favorite cocktail.Memorabilia and Membership
The Museum has a gift shop where you may purchase a book or other specialty items. You can also join as a member of this non-profit venture, at a level that suits your interest, and get the monthly newsletter the "Cocktailian Gazette.
The Museum of the American Cocktail and the French Quarter in New Orleans--could there be a more perfet match? Enjoy!
