The Parisian Gas Lamp
The Parisian Gas Lamp Cocktail
The Courtyard Bar’s Signature Cocktail. The Parisian Gas Lamp cocktail pays tribute to the iconic gas lamps that greet guests at Brennan’s entrance and courtyard.
The Brennan family has always loved Paris. When it was decided that the old Junior League building would become our home in Houston, we sought ways to infuse a touch of the French Quarter and old-world charm into our New Orleans-inspired John Staub building.
My mother, Ella Brennan, quickly suggested incorporating gas lamps. It was the perfect excuse to go to Paris. We found the Antoine Durenne lamps and had them shipped to Houston, where they’ve stood proudly since 1966, just before our opening in 1967.
Inspired by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s famous cocktail, Tremblement de Terre (The Earthquake), our version reimagines the classic Parisian cocktail with a New Orleans twist. While Toulouse-Lautrec’s original recipe features cognac, absinthe, and a twist of lemon, we use Remy Martin’s VSOP and Cointreau Noir. The cocktail’s rich hue mirrors the golden glow of the antique Durenne lamps when illuminated. The flaming orange peel, reminiscent of the gas flames in our lamps, is a nod to our Café Brulot, which has been prepared tableside since our opening.
Brennan's Gas Lamps
For 58 years, people have walked past the Durenne gas lamps without much notice. It recently dawned on us that these lamps are something truly unique to Brennan’s in Houston—and likely beyond.
Antoine Durenne (1822-1895) was a renowned French cast iron and bronze manufacturer, active during the mid-to-late 19th century. A founding member of the L'École Nationale des Arts Décoratifs, Durenne is remembered for the exceptional quality and elegance of his craftsmanship.
Educated at l’École des Arts et Métiers and l’École des Beaux-Arts, Durenne purchased a small foundry in Sommevoire in 1847. The firm remained active until 1930 and became known for its ornamental iron and bronze work, particularly large cast animal sculptures. Examples of the foundry's fountains, sculptures, urns, and other pieces can be found in historic parks and gardens across France and Britain.