The Spotted Cat Music Club
8.1Friend Score / 10#3 of 20 Bars & Nightlife in New Orleans
Known forjazzlive musicfrenchmen streettrad jazz
The Spotted Cat is the quintessential Frenchmen Street jazz dive: tiny, sweaty, no stage to speak of, and live trad and swing jazz all day and night. A friend absolutely sends you here to hear real local music with locals. Caveat: it's cash-only, cramped, and there's no food, so eat first.
Key facts
| Hours | Mon–Wed 14:00–01:30 Thu–Fri 14:00–02:00 Sat–Sat 12:00–02:00 Sun–Sun 12:00–00:30 |
|---|---|
| Price | $ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Rampart-St. Claude streetcar (Elysian Fields stop) a few blocks away; easy walk from the French Quarter |
| Time needed | 1-2 hours |
| Best time to go | Early evening set (around 6pm) to grab a spot before it fills |
| Last verified | July 12, 2026 |
Friend Score
8.1/10- Value8.3
- iconic8.0
- Freshness9.1
- Crowd level4.0
- Authenticity9.0
- Accessibility7.5
Frequently asked questions
- Can I bring kids?
- It's a bar, so it's 21+ in practice and not a kids' spot, especially at night. If you want family-friendly live music, look elsewhere. This one's for grown-ups.
- Is it really cash only?
- Yes, cash only for cover, drinks, and tips, so hit an ATM before you go. There are a few ATMs on Frenchmen Street but they charge fees and run out on busy nights. Come prepared.
- How's the drink situation?
- Drinks are simple and reasonably priced, no fancy cocktail program. It's beer, wine, and basic mixed drinks served fast. Tip your bartender in cash.
- What kind of music do they play?
- Traditional New Orleans jazz, swing, gypsy jazz, and blues, with multiple bands rotating through each day. The talent level is genuinely high; these are working local musicians. Check their online calendar to see who's playing.
- When should I go to get in easily?
- Come for an early set, around 6pm, when you can still get in the door and maybe even sit. By 9 or 10pm on weekends it's packed and you'll be standing in a crowd. The early bands are excellent too.
- Is it touristy?
- Frenchmen Street is on every tourist's list, so yes there are visitors, but the Spotted Cat still draws real music lovers and locals. It feels authentic in a way Bourbon Street doesn't. The music keeps it honest.
- Do they serve food?
- No food here, just drinks. Eat before you come or grab something from a nearby Frenchmen Street spot. This is a pure music-and-a-drink kind of place.
- Is there a cover charge?
- There's usually a small cover, often around $10 per set, and it's cash. It goes to the band. Have small bills ready at the door.
Nearby in Ask New Orleans
- Frenchmen Street BarBar0.09 km · 1 min walk
- Frenchmen StreetAttraction0.09 km · 1 min walk
- Faubourg MarignyNeighborhood0.13 km · 2 min walk
- Woldenberg Riverfront ParkPark0.33 km · 4 min walk
- Aunt Tiki'sBar0.36 km · 4 min walk
Where to stay near The Spotted Cat Music Club
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