There’s certainly no shortage of bars in New Orleans. When it comes to grabbing a drink with friends, you have so many options to choose from it can be a bit overwhelming. There’s one bar in particular that’s been a favorite of locals and tourists for years, and the history behind it is truly fascinating. Let’s take a closer look.

Pat O’Brien’s officially opened as a legal bar in 1933 on the 600 block of St. Peter Street in the French Quarter.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook But before that, during prohibition, the establishment was called Mr. O’Brien’s Club Tipperary. To gain access to the speakeasy, you had to know the password “storm’s brewin”.

The bar quickly gained popularity and they outgrew their original location at the corner of Royal and St. Peter Street.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook So in 1942, they moved to their present day location at 718 St. Peter Street. The historic building dates back to 1791.

In the mid 1940’s, whiskey, bourbon, and scotch were in short supply.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook Rum was available, but bars were required to purchase large quantities. After several versions, they finally came up with the perfect recipe. They put it in a glass shaped like a Hurricane lamp, and just like that—the Hurricane was born.

Today, Pat O’s is one of the most popular bars in the city.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink with friends after a long day.

The dueling pianos are always a hit.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook If you’ve never been, you’re in for a real treat. Local entertainers take song requests, and this unique concept is thought to be the first of its kind.

From the flaming fountain in the courtyard to the dueling pianos, the atmosphere at this historic watering hole.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook The courtyard restaurant, adjacent to the main patio, serves up some delicious authentic New Orleans cuisine.

Next time you’re looking for a unique place to grab a bite to eat and a drink, be sure to swing by.

David D./Trip Advisor And of course, order a Hurricane (or two).

Pat O’Brien’s is located at 718 St Peter St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116.

Ever been to Pat O’Brien’s? Share your Pat O stories in the comments below!

Pat O’Brien’s Bar/Facebook

But before that, during prohibition, the establishment was called Mr. O’Brien’s Club Tipperary. To gain access to the speakeasy, you had to know the password “storm’s brewin”.

So in 1942, they moved to their present day location at 718 St. Peter Street. The historic building dates back to 1791.

Rum was available, but bars were required to purchase large quantities. After several versions, they finally came up with the perfect recipe. They put it in a glass shaped like a Hurricane lamp, and just like that—the Hurricane was born.

It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink with friends after a long day.

If you’ve never been, you’re in for a real treat. Local entertainers take song requests, and this unique concept is thought to be the first of its kind.

The courtyard restaurant, adjacent to the main patio, serves up some delicious authentic New Orleans cuisine.

David D./Trip Advisor

And of course, order a Hurricane (or two).

Pat O’Brien’s is located at 718 St Peter St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116.

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