Top-Shelf New Orleans Pub Grub

New Orleans’ July heat can be ferocious, like a sauna and a steam room had a baby. But this is a city prepared for the swelter with plenty of cool ways to hydrate and cure the hangries. Whatever your pleasure—chugging a tall iced tea, slurping some noodles, tossing back a chilly shot of tequila or devouring frites—the newest places to chill are close at hand. Pop into one of these dope bars, grab a seat, eat, quaff and cool your heels.

The art-filled Franklin is the perfect backdrop for chef Dane Harris’ artful presentations.

(©Denny Culbert)

THE FRANKLIN

Pair a Caffe Flip (a boozy riff on an egg cream) with snazzy snacks like frites and aioli at happy hour, or go full-ham on a fat farmhouse cheddar and roasted tomato-topped Franklin Burger, spiced Brussels sprouts and luscious lemon pie.

Fresh mozzarella with cucumber, bitter-lemon purée, herbs and seeds from Jewel of the South.

(©Denny Culbert)

JEWEL OF THE SOUTH

Billed as a “tavern,” this charmer, run by two of the best in the local bar biz, rocks cocktail classics (and more) to go with a clever,globespanning menu of pâté, bao, gumbo, gnocco fritto and calas.

A mouthwatering margarita from Barrel Proof.

(©Gabrielle Geiselman-Milone)

BARREL PROOF

Dark and moody best describes the decor, though the crowd trends light and fun and the bar team is stellar. From the kitchen there’s a rotating crew of pop-ups covering a lot of flavor. Recently, Matchbook Kitchen (inspired Thai and Latin), Thali Llama (Indian), Little Kitchen (tacos) and Daddy Hot Bird (hot fried chicken) have been holding delicious court.