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ORAL HISTORY

Bobby Oakes

Arnaud's Restaurant

With little experience under his belt, Bobby Oakes knocked on doors all over the French Quarter to find a bartending job he could work at night, so that he could go to college during the day. He eventually landed a gig at the famed Pat O’Brien’s, where he quickly learned the business of the cocktail—quantity, not quality. Less than a year later, Bobby made his way to Arnaud’s Restaurant and developed a whole new appreciation for the art of tending bar. Since 1996, Bobby has immersed himself in cocktail history, tradition, and service. These days he only works one night a week, but he takes that night very seriously. Bobby enjoys honoring the traditions of cocktails like the Sazerac and Ramos Gin Fizz, but he is also a connoisseur of good scotch and vintage ports. You’ll find him there on Saturday nights, passionate about drinks and serious about service.