New Orleans isn't short on sources of inspiration: bustling Bourbon Street, the historic French Quarter, Cajun and Creole cultures, Hoodoo, Voodoo, Mardi Gras. The Big Easy pays homage to all those things and a whole lot more across two cosy levels on the busy Stanley Street strip in Darlinghurst, accented by exposed timber, plenty of greenery and the soft glow of fairy lights come nightfall.
When it comes to the cocktails, expect twists on some of the canon's greatest hits, like a Sazerac with a hint of yellow Chartreuse and lemon bitters, or naughty take on a Mint Julep spiked with chocolate bitters, chocolate bark and a chocolate-stout syrup. There's Pabst Blue Ribbon on tap, too, backed up by plenty of lagers, pilsners and pales from the US of A.
Snacking takes a similarly American bent, whether it's something small to keep that cold one company – like housemade Tajima Wagyu beef jerky flavoured with chipotle Tabasco and Southern Comfort – or more sizeable plates such as jambalaya, blackened Atlantic cod or a cajun-rubbed skirt steak.
Small it may be, but there's plenty of space to sink tins, be it upstairs or down, inside or out. Pop in early (4.30-6.30pm) for happy hour steals and live music sessions on Sunday afternoons, but know that no matter the hour, the take-it-easy vibe is always in the air.
