Inside Ye Olde College Inn there's more than just Dixie Beer on tap. They're also serving up lots of fond memories of the late Tom Benson.
Jerry Smith, a retired airline pilot, recalls the time he flew Benson and the team.
"I met Mr. Benson and his wife. They were riding in first class, naturally,” said Smith. “They were both very nice people. I really remember just how nice they were."
But beyond this, it was what the effect the Saints had on the city after Hurricane Katrina he'll remember the most.
"I think he just about put New Orleans on the map with that Super Bowl win especially after Katrina when the Saints played such a big part in bringing the city back together again," said Smith.
The restaurant, just across the street from Notre Dame Seminary, where the viewing for Benson took place, opened early to give people a place to reminisce. For owner John Blancher, Benson may be gone but the impact he had on the city and his neighborhood schools, including Brother Martin and Dominican High School, will never be forgotten.
"I think his impact on the sports side of things is immense, but for years and decades to come the contributions he's made to the schools will certainly live on," said Blancher.
Season ticket holder Schuyler Lawyer gives Benson credit for bringing new light to the Saints and Pelicans, but admits his legacy is not unique to just New Orleans.
"You go to Canton/Akron, Ohio, the hall of fame stadium was named after him because he made such a generous donation to revive it," said Lawyer.
So many were heartbroken to hear the news of Benson's passing, but tears aside, fans opted to honor his life by sharing tales of the man dubbed Mr. New Orleans by so many.