Pat O’Brien ran a speakeasy in the 600 block of St. Peter street in New Orleans’ French Quarter, until the repeal of Prohibition. When he officially opened the bar on December 3, 1933, he developed a friendship with Charlie Cantrell and after many years of fun and lots of poker games, the two men purchased the building that is now home to Pat O’Brien’s Bar at 718 St Peter street. 

“Dueling pianos” concept evolved from the late 1890’s RAGTIME era, where two pianists would “duel” for the crowds attention and tips. Although there were two pianists at the original location, the new location provided much more space to accommodate two baby grand pianos. They tweaked the ragtime format to encourage audience participation by way of song requests. The show quickly became a favorite of locals, especially a few newspaper writers. Word spread across the country and propelled the bar’s already familiar name. Through the years a variety of performers have graced the stage…singers, horn players and, of course, tray tapping, but always with the accompaniment of talented entertainers at the copper topped pianos. 

The show is largely dictated by the audience. The lounge is filled with fun energy to the delight of anyone who walks in the room!