Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar is a rambling, 18th-century shack on Bourbon Street that would make a fabulous setting for a horror movie. It does have a notorious past: the pub, built between 1722-32, was owned by pirate, spy and folk hero Jean Lafitte, who called it a blacksmith’s shop to confuse authorities. Today it draws crowds attracted by its intriguing history and signature cocktail, the grape-flavoured Voodoo Daiquiri.

Try this recipe for Cajun oyster mushroom tacos