The first time I went to New Orleans was during college. Between the rounds of drinks at the time and the intervening years – I can’t say I remember much about the trip. I’ve been back several times and have ventured beyond frozen drinks in grenade shaped cups to try a few new things. Here are 5 that I recommend from the last couple of visits….
Street musicians on Royal
Best hotels worth the splurge – Ritz Carlton or the Roosevelt (Waldorf Astoria). It’s nice to find a quiet place after a evening of stepping over puddles of unknown origin and weaving through the drunken crowds. Both of these hotels are just off the beaten path on Canal. Close enough to feel the vibe of Bourbon Street but with a welcome dose of calm.
Best blocks for live music (spoiler alert, not the French Quarter) – Frenchman Street. With a couple of notable exceptions, the music choices in the French Quarter tend to be of the cover-band variety. I like a good 80’s song as much as the next guy, but there are much better bets among the bars on Frenchman Street.
Best quintessential French Quarter – Cafe Du Monde, Pat O’Brien’s, & the street musicians. I like to experience new things when I go back to a city, but there is something to be said for tried and true.
Best new (or new to me) places – Cochon & Patrick’s Bar Vin Cochon is a good excuse to talk a long walk or a short Uber ride over to the Warehouse District and a chance of scenery. Bar Vin is smack in the middle of the Quarter, but with a completely different vibe from its neighbors.
New Orleans is a bit what you make of it. For me these days, it’s looking past the college crowd and ducking into the quieter places for great food and lively jazz. And if you get the chance to stay beyond the weekend for a day or two – you might find yourself slowing down to New Orleans time and letting a few cares slip away.
Laissez les bons temps rouler.
