Jeff Berry, the world's leading tiki historian, opened this gorgeous French Quarter bar serving historically accurate vintage tiki cocktails alongside excellent food. The definitive tiki experience.
Beachbum Berry's Latitude 29 opened in 2014 on Bienville Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, bringing the vision of Jeff Berry — the preeminent historian and archivist of tiki cocktail culture — to one of America's most cocktail-obsessed cities. The bar is the physical embodiment of decades of Berry's research into mid-20th century Polynesian-inspired bars: recipes he meticulously reconstructed from out-of-print manuals, private collections, and interviews with surviving bartenders from the golden era of tiki. The space is designed with authentic period elements — bamboo ceilings, rattan furniture, vintage maps, and original tiki carvings — without veering into kitsch. The drinks menu draws directly from Berry's published research, offering historically verified versions of classics including the Zombie, the Mai Tai, the Fog Cutter, and the Navy Grog, as well as original creations that extend the tradition. All cocktails are made with fresh juices, falernum, orgeat, and premium aged rums sourced to match the original recipes as closely as possible. The food menu features Pacific Rim-influenced small plates suited to pairing with tropical drinks. The crowd spans cocktail pilgrims from across the country, French Quarter tourists who discover the bar by proximity, and tiki hobbyists who regard Latitude 29 as a near-essential destination. The atmosphere is warm and educational — staff are genuinely knowledgeable about the history behind every drink — without being precious. No cover charge applies. The bar is open daily, with the kitchen serving lunch and dinner throughout the week.
Good to know
- Signature
- authentic tiki cocktails and tropical classics
Highlights
- Created by Jeff Berry, the world's leading tiki historian, built on decades of original cocktail archival research
- Historically verified vintage recipes including the Zombie, Mai Tai, Fog Cutter, and Navy Grog
- Authentic mid-century Polynesian decor — bamboo ceilings, rattan, tiki carvings — in the New Orleans French Quarter
- All drinks made with fresh juices, premium aged rums, and housemade falernum and orgeat to match original recipes
- Full Pacific Rim food menu designed to complement the tropical drinks program at lunch and dinner
Tips for visiting
- The Zombie is limited to two per person — an original Don the Beachcomber house rule that Latitude 29 upholds
- Ask staff about the history of any drink on the menu; the team's tiki knowledge goes well beyond standard bartending
- Visit at lunch for a quieter, more relaxed experience before the French Quarter evening crowds arrive
- Reservations are accepted and recommended for dinner and busy weekend evenings
- The bar is a short walk from the Canal Street streetcar line and easy to combine with a broader French Quarter itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Is Latitude 29 only for tiki enthusiasts?
Not at all. The accessible, food-friendly environment and knowledgeable staff make it an enjoyable destination for anyone curious about classic cocktail history or tropical drinks, regardless of prior familiarity with tiki culture.
Is there a cover charge?
No cover charge applies. The bar operates as a full restaurant and bar, open daily for both food and drink service at lunch and dinner.
Why is the Zombie limited to two per customer?
The two-drink limit on Zombies is a rule instituted by the drink's originator, Donn Beach of Don the Beachcomber, in the 1930s. Latitude 29 upholds this tradition, as the drink is exceptionally strong.
Does Latitude 29 take reservations?
Reservations are accepted and recommended for dinner service and weekend evenings. Walk-in seating at the bar is generally available outside peak hours.