The Sazerac, New Orleans’ signature cocktail, is a throwback that still feels fresh

There are few places in the U.S. more synonymous with cocktails than New Orleans, and visitors in town for this week’s Zurich Classic will find no shortage of establishments eager to serve up libations of all creations.

While there are a number of drinks like the Hurricane — a rum and juice concoction — that were originally crafted in the Big Easy, there is one cocktail that reigns supreme as the city’s signature offering: the Sazerac. And there’s no better place to have one than at the Sazerac Bar inside the Roosevelt New Orleans, which was originally built in 1893.

The Roosevelt’s Sazerac Bar opened in 1938 and remains unchanged to this day. The floors are original, as are the surrounding wood panels, which were created from a single African walnut tree. There are also original and immersive murals by 1930s artist Paul Ninas.

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Such history is part of the Sazerac’s allure. It’s one of the oldest known cocktails, with a recipe that dates back to the 1830s. The original’s featured spirit was brandy, which was imported from France via the Gulf of Mexico. But during the late 1800s, an insect infestation halted brandy production, and Sazerac fans were forced to pivot. Luckily, rye whiskey was gaining in popularity, making its way down the Mississippi River for export. Lo and behold, it qualified as a worthy substitute, and the Sazerac lived on.

The Roosevelt is one of the few places in town where you can order a classic Sazerac with brandy, as well as the “newer” version, with rye whiskey. There is a coffee-infused version on the menu as well.

What makes the Roosevelt’s Sazerac the best? According to Matt Schulte, the Roosevelt’s assistant director of food and beverage, it’s the old-school, Art Deco–infused ambience, as well as the bar’s commitment to making the Sazerac the same way it’s been made for nearly two centuries.

“We embrace our history,” he says. “When you step into our bar, our bartenders are dressed impeccably, and you can expect top-tier service. The drink’s going to come out quickly, properly and always served with a smile.”