One of New Orleans most famous spots, for coffee and meeting interesting people since 1862 has been the original French Market coffee stand serving cafe au lait and it’s world renown beignets.(nothing like them anywhere else!!!)
Since moving over stateside I have been enjoying exploring the wonderful cities America has to offer. My latest adventure took me to New Orleans.
I found a great quote from Blake Lively that describes NOLA beautifully – ”There is something about New Orleans that embodies passion; I’ve never seen that before. There’s something tangible about the essence of the city. You can taste and smell it.”
New Orleans is one of the world’s most fascinating cities – it is home to a truly unique melting pot of culture, food and music. I hopped on the short flight with my two best friends, one of which is a big foodie so I knew we’d be in good hands (plus put on at least 15 lbs over the weekend…!)
I’ve put together an overview of our trip – I hope it will give you inspiration to book a trip to NOLA and where I recommend you MUST GO!
* Blacksmiths Piano Bar – request any song you want and sing along while sipping gorgeous cocktails – what more could you ask for?!
* Marie Laveau’s House Of Voodoo – you cannot possibly go all the way to New Orleans without visiting this place! Apparently there is a career in fashion waiting for me…
* Hop over to Erin Rose off of Bourbon Street for their famous Po-boy – delicious!
* Grab a coffee and donut at world famous cafe du monde – Since 1862 this has been the original French Market coffee stand serving cafe au lait and beignets.
* Good at karaoke or love watching people make fools of themselves? Cats Meow is the best place just off of Bourbon Street.
* Enjoy Bourbon Street nightlife and also during the day. You will see all sorts of characters strutting their stuff wearing an array of outfits! My favorite place was Bourbon O Bar where my friends and I had Midas Cup – even managed to transport mine home!
* Ride the tram and see the sights round the city.
* Visit Harrah’s Casino – mini Vegas at your fingertips.
* If you are looking for live music? The Blue Nile is New Orleans’ premiere music venue. Located in the heart of the historic Frenchmen Street, it has been the home of countless top funk, blues, soul, and brass shows, featuring local, national and international acts.
*Check out Jackson Square. There I saw the famous statue of General Andrew Jackson on his horse, tipping his hat. From the park, we had the pleasure of seeing a wedding party parade out with a band in front of the St. Louis Cathedral. In walking outside the square’s iron fence, I saw a children’s band performing, children tap-dancing, artists, concession vendors, jazz combos and mimes, among other sights!
“New Orleans food is as delicious as the less criminal forms of sin”
* Now New Orleans for me wasn’t a place I woke up early (after a night of dancing) so brunch was a very important meal for us girls (helping us to recover). Atchafalaya served this purpose and brought us back to life, feeding me eggs benedict with mimosa’s – just what every girl needs!
*Looking for a fabulous venue for lunch time treats? Cochon Butcher have the BEST sandwiches. The Chef shows off his culinary roots, serving the traditional Cajun Southern dishes. Using locally sourced pork, fresh produce and seafood, focusing on traditional methods, creating authentic flavors which taste delicious.
*And for an evening meal…Compere Lapin – Well located just off the French quarter within easy walking distance to the riverside mall and casino, Bourbon St and a little further to the increasingly popular Frenchman St. Stunning food, cocktails and service.
Note to self – my girls were right when they said not to bring heels very bad idea as you are walking so much! After living in H-town my poor feet just weren’t used to it!
Keep it casual and comfortable for during the day sticking to jeans, leggings or shorts paired with a cute top and accessories. Evening time it’s however you feel! Anyone who has been here will know it’s a mixed bag of people and outfits! I always overdress no matter where I go but just paired my dresses with sandals or ballet pumps.
Have you been to New Orleans before? Where would you recommend? If you have been to any of the places mentioned would love to hear your opinion!
Looks like you guys never got out of the Quarter. “Ride the tram”? What is the Tram? You mean the Streetcar? Did you get to Magazine Street? Much more interesting and does not smell as bad.
You must eat at Galatois on Bourbon Street. Ask for a table downstairs; the scene is fabulous at lunch on Friday.
Do not miss the World War II museum–one of the best in the U.S.
For great Egg’s Benedict, try Stanley on Jackson Square. Served with fried oysters.