Discovering the Heartbeat of New Orleans: A Local's Guide to Food, Fun, and Music
- Tina Walsh
- 7 days ago
- 11 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Welcome to my adopted hometown of New Orleans—a city that loves to spoil its visitors with unforgettable experiences, enchanting sounds, savory flavors, and warm southern hospitality. CaptK and I met while we were attending college in New Orleans and after his stint in the US Navy, we returned to raise our children there. For the past 36 years, we have had a footprint in this unique, fun and very tasty place. There's so much to see and do here, so let me take you on a journey through some of my favorite spots to eat, stay, play, drink, and soak in the sweet sounds that make New Orleans magical.
Where to Stay: Comfort in Style
New Orleans boasts a variety of spectacular hotels, each offering a unique slice of our city's rich culture and history. If you're looking for splurge worthy, luxury in the heart of everything, the Ritz Carlton, New Orleans is my quintessential go-to. Whenever we do a New Orleans staycation, this is my favorite place to stay. It's all glamour and comfort, with a lovely spa including fitness center and indoor pool and the lobby bar turns into a jazz club in the evenings where Jeremy Davenport's music filled lounge kicks off your stay on a high note.
Not far from there, you've got the Roosevelt Hotel , a glamorous spot brimming with elegance and known for its historic touch. This is the pace to stay if you are visiting during the December Holidays. Their lobby decorations will chase the Bah Humbug from any one.
Also captivating is the Royal Sonesta, French Quarter right on Bourbon Street. This spot is the best location if you are looking for a luxury hotel in the middle of the French Quarter. The Royal Sonesta promises high-energy nights, delicious meals and a relaxed respite in their beautiful courtyard during the daytime.
If you're craving old-world charm mixed with budget friendly pricing, Place d'Armes Hotel is right off Jackson Square. They offer a excellent central location and a charming patio, perfect for early morning coffee sipping.
Finally, for a lush blend of history and modern design, The Eliza Jane Hotel awaits. Located just outside the French Quarter in the Central Business District, it’s a beautiful boutique hotel that once housed a bitters factory and a printing house. You don't want to miss a meal at their signature restaurant, Couvent!
Are you ready to book your trip to New Orleans?
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We found some delightful places to stay through them.
Where to Eat: A Culinary Celebration
Now, let’s talk food, because in New Orleans eating is an experience in itself. Start your culinary adventure at Commander's Palace in the Garden District, famous for its Creole cuisine and sumptuous jazz brunches. We have been celebrating our family's milestones at this beautifully restored Garden District mansion turned restaurant since the early 1980's when Paul Prudhomme and Emeril Lagasse were the head chefs there. For soul-warming gumbo that is easier on your wallet, head to the Gumbo Shop, a local favorite in the French Quarter since 1948. They offer gumbo in a variety of flavors that wrap you in culinary comfort.
When that beignet craving hits, Café Du Monde is your perfect excuse to indulge. The French Quarter location is iconic, however it does get crowded. Check out their website for more locations in the New Orleans area if you want to avaiod the crowds. Keep your eye out for other Beignet shops, like Cafe Beignet, where you can get non traditional beignet, like blueberry stuffed beignets.
Speaking of morning meals, nobody should leave New Orleans without experiencing brunch at Brennan’s, where the Eggs Benedict and Bananas Foster send you into a state of foodie euphoria. They have been serving breakfast in their bright pink, courtyard restaurant since 1946. They are located on Royal Street in the French Quarter. Reservations are a must here.
Bayona offers some of the most creative dishes in town, think of it as modern creole food. They have a French Quarter address on Dauphine St, in a quaint cottage giving you homey New Orleans charm. aOn a beautiful evening, there is nothing better than dining on their patio. Don't miss their garlic soup, I love it.
Seafood lovers must not miss the budget friendly Deanie's Seafood. It's casual, filling, and every bite tastes like the sea! They have multiple locations throughout the city, so you can find them close to where you are staying.
If you’re on the hunt for the best grilled oysters this city has to offer, Drago’s is where it's at! It's a mouth watering, eye rolling kind of deliciousness that’s quintessential to the New Orleans culinary scene. Created by the Croatia Family that has owns Drago's, even people who do not like oysters, like grilled oysters at Drago's.
Step into Napoleon House for a relaxed atmosphere in a historic building. Don't miss the Pimm's Cup and muffulettas, they are some of the best in the city. Located on Royal St. in the French Quarter, their building was built as a residence for Napoleon in the mid 1800's. although he never made it to New Orleans to stay there. Napoleon House has been serving Cajun and Creole secialities since 1914.
Essential Online Links For Booking Your Trip to New Orleans
Logistics: Uber is available in New Orleans as are Taxis although the waits can be very long. Here are two airport transfer options that will considerably reduce your wait times, New Orleans Transportation Service or Private Transfer New Orleans to New Orleans MSY.
Top-rated New Orleans tours and experiences:
☆New Orleans French Quarter Food Adventure (perfect for foodies)
☆New Orleans City Tour: Katrina, Garden District, French Quarter & Cemetery (great people who are visiting with limited time)
☆Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour (perfect for mystery lovers)
☆The National WWII Museum Admission + Campaigns of Courage Guided Tour Ticket (essential to avoid lines)
My favorite Guidebook for New Orleans: DK Press New Orleans
My favorite New Orleans Foodie Book: Hungry Town
Don’t forget to pack: Comfortable Walking Shoes***Sun Hat***A Vibrant Tee Shirt***A Dress for Dinners
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Looking for More Information on Visiting New Orleans, check out these Blog Posts:
Where to Drink: Sipping Spirits like a Local
While tourists on Bourbon street may prefer the sugary sweet cocktails like the Hurricane from Pat O'Brien's or the Hand Grenades from the Dungeon, New Orleans has a diverse and sophisticated cocktail scene. For craft cocktails with a twist, head uptown to Ferret St. for a visit to Cure. They offer a creative menu in a swanky setting with a patio that is delightful in the spring and fall. Their cocktail list is unique and diverse. If you are a fan of Cognac, they make an excellent Sidecar.
Hot Tin is the rooftop bar you didn’t know you needed until you see the stunning panoramic views of the city below while sipping on something delightful. Jump on the St. Charles Ave Street Car and hop off at the Pontchartrain Hotel at the corner of St. Charles and Jackson Aves. It is worth the trip for their Duck Fat Sazerac and the views.
Don't skip the nostalgia-rich Carousel Bar in the Monteleone Hotel, where you can sip your Sazerac while taking a gentle spin around the merry-go-round-style bar. You always meet the most interesting people at the Carousal Bar. Head to the other side of Bourbon Street, for a classic touch of French elegance. Arnaud’s French 75 will charm you with expertly concocted cocktails. Of course, Gin Lovers will want to order their classic version of the French 75.
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The trendy, French Quarter spot Cane and Table offers unique drinks infused with the tastes of the Caribbean focusing on a distinctly Cuban flavors. Their House Daiquiri gives a nod to Ernest Hemingway with fresh lime juice and white rum. On the other side of the French Quarter, Bar Tonique greets you with an extensive cocktail menu that covers all tastes and whims. Housed in a traditional creole cottage on Rampart St., this is a cozy, quiet spot to enjoy a libation.
Lastly, Jewel of the South offers upscale drinks with an ambiance as sparkle-filled as its name suggests. They have received the World's 50 Best Bars and the James Beard Award for best Restaurant Bar multiple years in a row. one sip and you understand why! A must try is the Brandy Crusta, widely believed to be the first cocktail created in the United States, not surprisingly right here in New Orleans.
Where to Enjoy Live Music: Let the Beat Move You
There's no other city quite like New Orleans when it comes to live music.There are not two more iconic music venues in New Orleans than these first two. Just off Bourbon Street on St. Louis Ave. in the heart of the French Quarter, Preservation Hall, is a must visit for authentic jazz experiences that move your soul. Head Uptown to the Garden District for legendary local sounds where Tipitina’s offers everything from jazz to blues to modern hits with their predominantly weekend shows.
Just south of the French Quarter in the Faubourg Marigny, Snug Harbor is my favorite music venue in New Orleans. They offer live music seven days a week with an intimate vibe giving you some of the best jazz performances in town. To enjoy a lively setting also on Frenchman Street visit d.b.a., where you'll find an eclectic mix of bands each night. Most nights they have two bands. Check their website for details during your visit.
Chickie Wah Wah brings a relaxed setting with a variety of soul satisfying bands. .You can take the Canal Street Street Car out to Chickie Wah Wah from the downtown hotels. Check their website for a music schedule.
And finally, head to The Spotted Cat for a funky club on Frenchmen Street that makes every night feel like a uniquely New Orleans celebration. They offer three bands per day starting at 2:00pm, seven days a week. Whether it’s brass bands, gypsy swing, swamp pop or cool blues, music here touches every sense.
Sights: Immerse Yourself in NOLA's History and Culture
There is so much to see and do in New Orleans that you could not possibly do it all in a long weekend or even a week long stay. My best advice is pick one thing to do everyday and make plans for a return trip.To see New Orleans as the orginal European settlers did, from the River, board the historic Natchez Steamboat. You will glide down the mighty Mississippi, and marvel at the iconic skyline of New Orleans shimmering in the golden light. The sound of the paddlewheel splashing against the water is music to my ears, and I took it all in with a beaming smile on my face. The captain narrates fascinating tales of the river’s history, its significance to the city, and the bustling energy that it carries.
Explore the heart of New Orleans’ haunted history with the Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour . Wandering through the dimly lit streets, I was captivated by the spine-chilling stories of spirits that continue to roam the cobblestone pathways. The guide painted vivid pictures of the city’s past, filled with tales of voodoo, tragedies, and restless souls. It was equal parts thrilling and eerie, and every corner seemed to whisper secrets of the past.
One of my favorite things to do in New Orleans is to take a cooking class at one of the local culinary schools. It is a delightful escape into the aromatic world of Creole and Cajun cuisine! The chef teaches how to prepare traditional dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, weaving in stories about their cultural significance. The camaraderie of my fellow classmates and the delicious aroma of spices filled the air, making it a memorable experience. And let’s just say, enjoying my own homemade dish afterward was the icing on the cake!
History lovers will want to make their way to the National WWII Museum. From the moment I stepped inside, I was immersed in an incredible narrative of bravery and determination. Each exhibit was thoughtfully curated, shedding light on the profound sacrifices made during the war. I found myself drawn into the personal stories of soldiers and their families, and the entire experience was both humbling and enlightening. I lingered longer than planned, but it was well worth it. Lunch at the on site American Sector Restaurant is a must-do.
If you are interested in the traditions of Mardi Gras, tour the Mardi Gras Museum, where the history of this iconic festival comes alive in lively colors and intricate designs. The dazzling costumes, beads, and masks tell tales of celebration and joy. I could almost hear the lively music and feel the energy that envelops the city during Carnival season just by walking around this cavernous museum.
If you want to understand the intricacies of the wetlands surrounding New Orleans or just meet an alligator face to face, make time for a Swamp Tour! Exploring the bayous is truly magical. With a local guide, we cruised through lush landscapes, spotting alligators basking in the sun and a variety of wildlife that adds to NOLA's unique ecosystem. The air was thick with the smell of the swamp, but the views were utterly captivating. The wetlands around New Orleans are a fascinating juxtaposition of nature and charm.
If you are interested in the pre-Civil War South, visit a historic plantation houses that dit the sugar cane fields, between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Stepping onto the lush grounds feels like stepping back in time. The grandeur of the architecture is stunning, and you will learn about the plantation's history, the lives led there, and the resilience of the people who worked on the land.
It was a sobering experience that added depth to my understanding of the region. Some of my recommended Plantation House are Houmas House, Oak Alley, Laura Plantation and Destrehan Planation, easily visited in one day by car in one day. Save room for lunch at Houmas House, their restaurant is so delicious. You can take a Swamp Tour that Visits Oak Alley or a Multiple Plantation Tour, as well if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else.
Finally, I love spending part of a day at the South Food and Beverage Museum. The museum beautifully showcases the diverse culinary heritage of the South, with a special focus on the influences to New Orleans' culinary history. The exhibit describing the life of restauranteur Al Copeland founder of the Popeye's Fast Food Chain gives you a vision into his life and businesses. The museum offers cooking classes featuring regional delicacies on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. They are a tasty way to learn about the history and preparation of local dishes.
Explore, Enjoy, Repeat
Whether it’s food, drink, music, or history that brings you to New Orleans, this city captures your heart and urges your spirit to dance. The energy, unparalleled hospitality, and diverse rhythms of our culture makes every visit unforgettable. So go ahead, indulge in that extra beignet, sway to the live music, and let the charm of New Orleans envelop you in its magical embrace. I promise, you’ll leave with a full heart, a satisfied palate, and a story two to share. Until next time, laissez les bon temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!) 🌟🎺🥂
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