New Orleans can be a dizzying place. Then imagine the irony that the first place I always visit upon arriving in the French Quarter is a place that literally gives me the spins.

Revolving bars at hotels are not new, unless they came first. The Carousel Lounge in the Monteleon Hotel on Royal Street claims to be America’s first revolving bar. And unlike the tourist traps that feature “buy the drink, keep the glass” specials located on top of many hotels around the country, something else makes this cozy little bar unique. It is located on the first floor just off of the hotel lobby.

The bar stools, bolted into the motorized floor, move in tandem at the speed of ¼ mile an hour. Old time bartenders of the Carousel tell the story of the well-oiled customer standing outside of the barstools yelling at the seated patron to stop moving while he is talking to him.

The Carousel Lounge was so named because for years it truly was a carousel. The bar was circular with a clown motif. The barstools were red and white striped. The walls featured paintings with the likeness of Emmitt Kelly.

An updating a half a decade ago eliminated the circus atmosphere. The room is now much darker and understated. A piano player joins the party at night. Hors d’oeuvres are brought out for happy hour.

This is a great first stop because they make arguably the best Bloody Mary in the Big Easy. Perfectly seasoned, a spicy green bean replaces the traditional celery stalk to provided added zing. Table seating is available, but nothing is like sitting at the bar. Heck, the bartender doesn’t even have to move because you do.

When Ty was the bartender, we used to go to the Carousel to “ty” one on. Now, it’s simply “I’m going to take a couple of laps around the carousel.” Where else in New Orleans can you go around in circles and never leave the place? – D.M.

POST KATRINA: The Carousel Lounge is still spinning merrily along.