Practical information : Take a break Louisiana
Timetable
Gourmet shops (bakeries, patisseries, etc.), cafés and tearooms are generally open every day, from morning until mid- or late afternoon (some may be open into the evening, especially cafés). However, there may be some days off in smaller shops or in the regions, usually on Sundays or at the beginning of the week. Opening hours can also be reduced out of season. As for bars, many open as early as 11 a.m. or noon, especially in the city. Otherwise, you can expect them to open mid to late afternoon at the latest. Closing time is usually 2 or 3 a.m., but some close earlier (midnight or 1 a.m.) at the start of the week or out of season. In New Orleans, however, many bars stay open until dawn, or even without interruption, especially in the French Quarter. Bars tend to be open 7 days a week, but there may be some closing days (e.g. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday), particularly outside the major centers. Finally, it's worth noting that some bars close in the afternoon, generally from 2pm to 4 or 5pm.
Budget & Tips
Prices for gourmet breaks and alcoholic beverages are relatively similar to those in Europe, especially in cities like New Orleans. To save money, the famous Happy Hour offered in bars in the middle or at the end of the day is a good idea. There are also low-cost passports that allow you to visit participating establishments and get free drinks (plus tip). Such is the case with PubPass (getpubpass.com) for Louisiana's microbreweries and craft breweries.
As a general rule, prices quoted are always exclusive of tax. Not only must you add sales tax (4.45% + local tax of up to 7%), but also 15% service charge. All methods of payment are accepted, although small shops sometimes limit themselves to cash and/or debit card.
Age restrictions
In Louisiana (and the rest of the country), the age of majority is 18, but you must be 21 to consume alcohol. Wherever a bar license applies, only adults are allowed. At the entrance to some bars, notably in New Orleans, a bracelet or stamp is provided for people under 21, so that waiters know they are underage. However, some places hold a different permit (restaurant, artisanal production...) which allows them to welcome minors. Please note that all bars and licensed establishments ask for official photo ID on entry, and some establishments only accept passports (French ID cards mean absolutely nothing to them). Sometimes you'll even be asked for your "ID" at the supermarket if you're buying wine or any other alcoholic beverage. During festivals, on the other hand, no one will be interested in your age on festival days.
What's very local
In New Orleans in particular, but also in other cities and towns in the state, it's possible to drink on the street, but the glass or bottle doesn't have to be glass or metal. Bars and restaurants all have plastic glasses, or go-cups, into which you can pour the rest of your drink and finish it as you walk down the street.
In the same spirit, daiquirishops and evendrive-thru daiquiris can be found all over Louisiana. Of course, it's forbidden for drivers and passengers to open the containers and consume the drink while the car is in motion.
Kids
Children are accepted wherever a bar permit is not in force.
Smokers
Smoking is prohibited in gourmet shops, cafés and tea rooms, with the exception of terraces. While state law does not prohibit smoking in bars, many cities have imposed local restrictions in this regard, including Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Lafayette and New Orleans. However, smoking is permitted on terraces throughout Louisiana, unless otherwise specified.