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nightmare-afton-cosplay · 7 years

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Best Kept Secret in Austin: This Amazing $3.5M Creative Retreat

realtor.com

An eclectic and creative retreat in the middle of one of Austin‘s hippest, densest neighborhoods has hit the market for $3.5 million—and it comes with endless possibilities.

Dubbed the “Sekrit Theater” by locals (misspelling deliberate), the parcel includes a main home, a tiny cabin made of repurposed materials from New Orleans’ 9th Ward, a freestanding glass-and-steel atrium, an outdoor theater pavilion, and a full-size movie screen and projection house. The lot, which is on the city’s East Side, is circled by a stone and brick fence.

“When I first walked in, my jaw just dropped,” says listing agent Don Harvey. “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing in the middle of East Austin. Virtually every piece of land there has been gobbled up and turned into lofts and condos and townhouses, and here’s this 2-acre, estate-sized piece of property.”

Sekrit house

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Outdoor theater

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Designer and artist Beau Reichert, a fixture on the local Austin arts scene, bought the property 10 years ago. He moved into the main house and gradually built the other structures, most of which were constructed from found materials.

The centerpiece of the property is the octagonal pavilion, which has a bell roof made of reclaimed barn wood and massive cedar posts. The pavilion has held scores of events over the past decade, including charity fundraisers, weddings, and parties.

Pavilion

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Sekrit Theater

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The two-story movie house and concession stand feature hexagonal tile and reclaimed barn wood. There’s also a French Quarter–style patio made with antique bricks from the Texas governor’s mansion. The movie house features a state-of-the-art projection room.

“The sound system for the movie theater is designed in such a way when you’re sitting in it, you can hear really well, but the speakers are highly directional,” Harvey says. “When you walk 100 paces away, you can’t hear a thing.”

A tiny cabin constructed of antique German logs, Texas stone, barn wood, and fossils sits nearby and features antique French and leaded-glass doors. The property also features a remastered shotgun house based on homes in New Orleans Bywater neighborhood.

Tiny cabin

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Bus “yard lounge”

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The various structures on the property are linked by pathways made of bricks that were sourced from the first dormitory at the former Southwest Texas State Normal School (now Texas State University). An outdoor bath (a claw-foot tub and brick shower) is illuminated by a chandelier in a nearby tree, and a vintage Crown Super Coach bus is affectionately dubbed the “yard lounge.”

Prospective buyers could use the space for residential purposes (e.g., short-term rental or bed-and-breakfast), or as a church, urban farm, or community gathering place. Harvey says he and his team are working closely with Reichert to find a “like-minded” buyer who will embrace the idea of the property being a creative space.

“I built this place to connect artists with a community, and to provide a unique experience where everyone felt welcome,” Reichert wrote in a Facebook post announcing the listing earlier this year. “Through the years you all have watched some of the most amazing performances, done photography projects, filmed movies and music videos, got married, had birthday parties, and wonderful charity events, and come to watch movies at the theater. … We want the new buyer to understand how special the Sekrit Theater is and how important it is to all of you.”

Not only is the Sekrit Theater vital to the community, it’s also one of a kind.

“It’s really beautiful in a rough-hewn kind of way, and everything he’s built there is extremely efficient,” Harvey says. “I’ve been doing this for 15 years and I’ve seen all kinds of properties, but I’ve never seen anything like this.”

dreams happen here from Austin Music Realty on Vimeo.

The post Best Kept Secret in Austin: This Amazing $3.5M Creative Retreat appeared first on Real Estate News & Advice | realtor.com®.

from http://www.realtor.com/news/unique-homes/austin-compound-creative-retreat/

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cooksandkid · 4 years

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*Note we went to New Orleans a couple of years ago, obviously pre Covid-19. I have finally found the time to document our trip and share it. When things settle down again, be sure to add NOLA to your list of places to visit.

There is only one word to describe New Orleans and that is magical. Sounds real dramatic, but to visit NOLA is to love NOLA. The city is rich in culture, full of the friendliest people, heartfelt jazz, and the most amazing food. I can honestly say of all the places I have traveled, there is no place like it. It has the feel of a beach town, but without the beach! Also, the architecture and landscape are just beautiful! I am not one to even notice things of that nature, but there you can’t help but to take in. The shot gun houses and star jasmine growing every where was interesting.

There are two reasons why I believe New Orleans is such an amazing city. First, it does not shy away from it’s complex history, it embraces it 100%. From slaves, to the French, to the practice of vodoo. While you are there you are reminded of that history everywhere, but you can also see where the city and the people have evolved to be so much more than that. That brings me to my second reason why NOLA is a city worth visiting, the people. There are a lot of passionate people in NOLA who are honing in on their craft and then sharing it with you. NOLA attracts people who love art and culture. This draw is maybe due to the city being so abundant in history that it gives people the inspiration and freedom to live their best lives. And when you are living your best life and doing what you are most passionate about, there is no doubt that you transfer that into the goods and services you provide. There are many artisan small businesses there that are completely unassuming. When you walk in to a shop you are constantly surprised by the level of craftsmanship that you are being offered and this applies to everything, not only with food and shops, but live music too.

If you or someone you know says they did not like NOLA, I would ask “Well did you see more than just the French Quarter”? The French Quarter is synonymous with NOLA, but that is the place we actually spent the least time. We traveled a lot on foot which helped us really get to know the other areas of NOLA, like the Garden District, Bywater, and Treme. We also took the bus and the trolley around, which a local was very surprised by. Apparently, most visitors don’t get around that way, maybe due to the rise of Uber and Lyft. Getting around the way we did really allowed us to take in NOLA and appreciate its beauties and its flaws. Not going to lie, NOLA has a bit of grit to it and can be a little rough around the edges, but what major city does not? If you like your city clean, rich and white, then go to Charleston or Nashville. If you like a city that is diverse, and full of personality then you will love NOLA.

Below is where we stayed, what we did and what we ate. Guess which is the longest list?

Where we stayed:

The Old 77 Chandlery

Located in the Central Business Distinct, this boutique hotel was pretty enchanting. It completed our NOLA experience, as it was nothing like staying in your standard run of the mill chain hotel. The rooms have brick walls, hardwood floors and beautiful art. Downstairs in the hotel is a cafe, art gallery and the famous Compere Lapin restaurant. From everything I have read, Compere is a must, and sadly we did not make it there for dinner. Nina Compton, Chef at Compere won the JBFA for Best Chef 2018, she won shortly after we visited

What we did:

The Spotted Cat

This hole in the wall is where you can listen to live Jazz artists and have a drink. There is no cover, you only have to buy a drink to listen and showtimes are twice a day. The band we saw put on a really great show, I am sure you cant go wrong with whoever you choose to see. Seeing a live jazz show was really the icing on the cake for our trip, it helped us really feel immersed in the city’s vibe. Bring cash.

Rouse’s Market

When visiting New Orleans you should definitely walk around Rouses Market. It is a local grocery store chain, that carries local brands and specialties of New Orleans. You can also buy cooked crawfish there (that were actually very good) self serve in a large cooler. When I saw that I thought “only in NOLA”!

Where we ate:

Hands down our favorite restaurant we went to in NOLA. This restaurant has a very Parisian vibe, intimate and unpretentious while serving incredible food. The food draws from French and Japanese influences, so there will be a blend of those two cultures all through the menu. The also serve a pretty decent list of tinned (canned) seafood, which is fairly common in Europe. Canned seafood may sound unappealing, but when it is done right it is delicious and N7 is persnickety about their purveyors. Overall the most memorable dining experience we have had in a long time.

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Mosquito Supper Club

This dining experience really helped us understand what NOLA is all about. When you walk in the door you feel like you are in someone’s home, all the tables are communal and the design has that southern charm. Upon entering we were offered a selection of natural wine or cocktails, both list very well thought about it. I would also like to mention that I had my very first natural wine here and fell in love. The food was delicious and all Cajun. When we booked the meal, I was really not happy with the fact we would be eating dinner with complete strangers. 30 minutes into the evening at Mosquito Supper Club, my mind changed. Even though we were all strangers, the one thing we had in common was our love for food. This made for great conversations centered around food. The food, the drinks and the company made for a really memorable evening!

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Willa Jean

An upgrade to southern food like Burrata Toast with BBQ Shrimp (so good) and the most delicious Monkey Bread I have ever eaten. Also, served there is a plethora of homemade desserts and baked goods. Highly recommend for brunch.

Willa Mae’s Scotch House

The most amazing fried chicken and southern staples are served there. Nothing fancy, just comfort food.

Bacchanal

This is a laid back wine bar, a place you can hang out for hours. They have a large outdoor patio with a stage and live music. At night it becomes so romantic because of all the hanging outdoor lights. They serve food too!

Cafe du Monde

The best beignets! They really were better than the other places we tried beignets. Be sure to order a cafe au lait too. Bring cash.

Erin Rose

A fun bar that serves un-traditonal, but delicious Poboys!

Turkey and The Wolf

Food with a lot flavor and personality can be found here. You either love it or you hate it.

Peche

Go there for the whole grilled fish (catch of the day) served with a salsa verde. Delicious but pricey!

Can’t wait to plan our next visit, this was a memorable trip!

New Orleans *Note we went to New Orleans a couple of years ago, obviously pre Covid-19. I have finally found the time to document our trip and share it.

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charllieeldridge · 5 years

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Where To Stay in New Orleans: Neighborhood & Accommodation Guide

I fell in love with New Orleans immediately on my first visit. The energy of the city is just amazing— it really sucks you in. After a 2nd trip there, I’m already planning a third. There’s just no shortage of fun things to do in New Orleans!

With so much going on here, it’s important to figure out where to stay in New Orleans. Early birds and light sleepers will want to avoid the madness of Bourbon Street, while party animals will feel right at home there.

The good news is that there are plenty of excellent choices when it comes to places to stay in New Orleans.

In this post, I’ll provide a detailed look at the best areas in the city for tourists, along with a few hotel recommendations for each.

The French Quarter: Where to Stay in New Orleans for First Time Visitors

The French Quarter is a great place to stay in New Orleans if you’re looking for:

Historic Buildings

Boutique Hotels

Mississippi River Views

Famous Restaurants

Vibrant Nightlife

If it’s your first visit and you’re wondering where to stay in New Orleans, you can’t go wrong with the French Quarter. It’s also known as Vieux Carré, which actually translates to “Old Square.”

This is the historic heart of the city and is even known as the “Crown Jewel of New Orleans.” Although it’s called the French Quarter, much of the architecture you see is actually Spanish. That’s because the area was ravaged by fire and was later rebuilt during the brief period of Spanish rule.

The French Quarter is also the center of tourism in NOLA. It’s home to a vast array of hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars, making it a convenient base to explore the city. You’ll never be hungry or bored in this part of the city!

Located right on the Mississippi River, the French Quarter is a very scenic place to stay. There are a few riverside parks that make for a nice stroll. The area is also home to the historic Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. If you enjoy discovering a city on foot, then the French Quarter is one of the best places to stay in New Orleans.

Here are a few of the best New Orleans hotels located in the French Quarter:

Omni Royal

Location: 621 St. Louis Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.9/10

Price: Rooms from $269

This place consistently comes up when you search for where to stay in New Orleans, and for good reason. It’s a historic hotel that dates all the way back to 1838.

Fun fact: gumbo, one of the most famous dishes from New Orleans, was invented here! You can try this and other classic New Orleans cuisine in their award-winning Rib Room.

This excellent hotel also boasts a heated rooftop pool and a nice fitness center for when you need to work off those extra calories! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

W New Orleans French Quarter

Location: 316 Charles Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.4/10

Price: Rooms from $242

The courtyard-style architecture of this hotel makes it one of the coolest places to stay in New Orleans. It’s located right in the heart of the French Quarter, just a short walk from both Jackson Square and Bourbon Street.

After a big day of exploring the Crescent City, it’s great to return here to lounge by the pool in the courtyard. Some rooms even come equipped with their own private hot tub and patio for extra relaxation!

If you’re in town on a weekend, this is a great place to stay. Their “Legs and Eggs” Sunday brunch at the on-site SoBu features a burlesque show and is tons of fun. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Hotel Monteleone

Location: 214 Royal Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.9/10

Price: Rooms from $199

This charming hotel is located close enough to Bourbon Street to be near the action but far away enough to not deal with the noise. It’s a great choice if you want to party there but also want to get some decent sleep afterward.

One of the best things about staying here is the Carousel Bar. It’s not just a clever name as the bar is centered around an actual carousel. It’s definitely one of the best bars in New Orleans to grab a drink at! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Bourbon Street: Where to Stay in New Orleans to Party

Bourbon Street is a great place to stay in New Orleans if you’re looking for:

Raucous Nightlife

Mardi Gras Celebrations

LGBT-Friendly Bars

Center of Tourism

While it’s technically a part of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street deserves its own section in this guide on where to stay in New Orleans. Famous for its raucous nightlife, epic Mardi Gras celebrations and other fun festivals, this is a pretty wild place to stay.

Many of the hotels on Bourbon Street are literally right on top of the party, so this isn’t the place to stay if you want some peace and quiet on your trip. It’s better to stick with one of the French Quarter hotels mentioned above.

Click here for an in-depth look at staying on Bourbon Street. This post goes into detail about the layout and history of the street. There are recommendations for 10 different hotels to choose from as well.

For now, here are 3 of the best hotels located on or near Bourbon Street:

Royal Sonesta

Location: 300 Bourbon Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.6/10

Price: Rooms from $359

This is definitely one of the top places to stay in New Orleans. It’s actually more like a resort than a hotel, with several on-site restaurants and bars.

Many rooms feature wrought-iron balconies overlooking Bourbon Street — the perfect spot for some people watching. If you can snag one of these for Mardi Gras you’ll be right in the thick of all the action.

It’s hard to imagine all the chaos of Bourbon Street is just outside when you’re sitting in the tranquil courtyard here. It’s an oasis in the middle of the huge party that’s raging just beyond the hotel walls. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Lafitte’s Guest House

Location: 1003 Bourbon Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.7/10

Price: Rooms from $189

Whereas the Royal Sonesta is a massive hotel with some 500 rooms, this place feels more like staying in someone’s home. After all, this boutique hotel is actually set in a restored house. With only 14 rooms, it certainly has a homey vibe.

If you’re not a fan of the typical Bourbon Street bars with their offensively loud music, you’ll enjoy staying here. It’s right next door to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop, which is the oldest, and one of the best bars in New Orleans. It’s still candle-lit to this day. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Hotel Mazarin

Location: 730 Bienville Street

Rating on Booking.com: 9.1/10

Price: Rooms from $179

Ok, so this hotel isn’t technically on Bourbon Street, but it’s right around the corner. You’re still within stumbling distance from the party if you stay here!

Before you hit the party on Bourbon, make sure you grab a drink in their 21st Amendment Bar. This Prohibition Era-inspired speakeasy is the perfect spot to kick off a night out in NOLA with a cocktail or two.

As far as the rooms here, they’re definitely pretty fancy. We’re talking crystal chandeliers and gold leaf accents! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Garden District: One of the Most Beautiful Places to Stay in New Orleans

Garden District is a great place to stay in New Orleans if you’re looking for:

Antebellum Mansions

Oak-Lined Streets

Fine Dining

Boutique Shops

If the over-the-top party vibe of Bourbon Street is too much for you, then the Garden District is a solid choice. This is one of the most scenic and peaceful places to stay in New Orleans.

When it was first developed, there were only a few homes per block here. The extra space allowed for large gardens, hence the name given to the area.

Thanks to development, there aren’t that many actual gardens here anymore. These days there are some pretty incredible mansions here, many of which are owned by celebrities.

Staying in the Garden District is a good choice for those who are looking for a more laidback experience in New Orleans. There are still plenty of choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping here, but it’s not overly touristy.

Here are some of the best places to stay in New Orleans in the Garden District:

Hotel Indigo

Location: 2203 St. Charles Avenue

Rating on Booking.com: 8.5/10

Price: Rooms from $110

Rooms at this Garden District hotel are well-appointed with chic decor. They have several options ranging from standard rooms to huge suites.

Those looking to squeeze a workout in will be happy to hear that there’s a nice fitness center here. There’s also a business center if you actually need to get some work done on your trip.

Getting to and from the French Quarter is easy as this hotel is located right across from a streetcar stop. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Parisian Courtyard Inn

Location: 1726 Prytania Street

Rating on Booking.com: 9.1/10

Price: Rooms from $188

This is a proper B&B and a beautiful place to stay. As the name would suggest, a delicious breakfast is included when you stay at the Parisian Courtyard Inn.

Guests who have stayed here rave about the amazing staff. If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in New Orleans where you’ll have a more personalized experience, this is a great choice.

There are only 10 rooms here, all featuring hardwood floors and antique furniture. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Henry Howard Hotel

Location: 2041 Prytania Street

Rating on Booking.com: 9.0/10

Price: Rooms from $179

There’s no doubt that this is one of the most gorgeous places to stay in New Orleans. Set in a historic 18-room townhouse, this place is a real beauty.

Even the decorations in the rooms just scream New Orleans here, with trumpets and saxophones hanging from the walls. You’ll also enjoy hanging out in their Parlor room, which feels more like a friend’s living room than a hotel lobby. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Faubourg Marigny/Bywater: Where to Stay in New Orleans for a Local Experience

Faubourg Marigny/Bywater is a great place to stay in New Orleans if you’re looking for:

Bohemian Atmosphere

Live Music

Affordable Restaurants

Artsy Vibe

Just east of the French Quarter along the river is the small neighborhood of Faubourg Marigny. Known by locals simply as “The Marigny,” this is one of the oldest ‘hoods in the Big Easy.

When the city of New Orleans began to grow, some plantation owners decided to break up their land to develop residential property. Bernard Marigny was one of the first to do this in the early 1800s and the neighborhood still has his name.

The Marigny has gone through lots of changes over the years. One significant development occurred on Frenchmen Street, which grew to become the premier location for live music in the city. There are tons of music clubs as well as roaming marching bands, making this one of the best places to stay in New Orleans for music lovers.

The adjacent Bywater has become somewhat of a hipster haven in recent years. This began in the 1980s when real estate speculation and profiteering led many residents to move downriver to the Marigny and Bywater areas.

The artistic community once found in the French Quarter is now largely based here. In the Bywater, you’ll find the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts — a school that’s training the next generation of Crescent City artists and creatives.

Staying in either the Marigny or Bywater is a great choice if you want a more local perspective on your trip to New Orleans. Here are some of the best hotels in this area:

Royal Frenchmen Hotel & Bar

Location: 700 Frenchmen St #1614

Rating on Booking.com: 8.9/10

Price: Rooms from $240

Set in a 19th-century Creole home, this boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay for bar-hopping on Frenchmen Street. Rooms here feature elegant furnishings and neighborhood views, some from private balconies overlooking the famous street.

Before hitting the town, hang out in their scenic courtyard or at the Royal Bar. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth it to drop by for the $3 martinis during their Happy Hour from 4-8 PM. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Hotel Peter and Paul

Location: 2317 Burgundy Street

Rating on Booking.com: 9.4/10

Price: Rooms from $120

There’s a lot of history in this Marigny hotel. The former church, schoolhouse, convent, and rectory dates all the way back to 1860. A 4-year restoration process turned it into the upmarket hotel you see today.

The result is an absolutely stunning hotel. A lot of attention to detail went into the design of the rooms, and no two are alike. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places to stay in New Orleans.

In addition to the gorgeous guest rooms, this hotel boasts a few parlors for relaxing and socializing, a sunroom, cafe, bar, and even an ice cream shop. Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Royal Street Courtyard

Location: 2438 Royal Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.4/10

Price: Rooms from $275

This excellent B&B is set in a 1850s Greek Revival mansion. It features eleven well-appointed suites, each with a unique design. It’s just a few blocks from Frenchmen Street as well as the riverside Crescent Park, making for a great home base to explore the area.

There’s a lot to discover beyond your room here. You can relax in a rocking chair on their front porch or take a dip in the hot tub in the backyard. How cool is that?

You can even rent out the entire B&B for a wedding or other special event. Talk about an awesome event venue! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Central Business District (CBD): Where to Stay in New Orleans for Events

Central Business District is a great place to stay in New Orleans if you’re looking for:

Proximity to Arena and Stadium

Sporting Events and Concerts

Local Restaurants and Bars

If you’re headed to the Big Easy for a conference, sporting event, or a big concert/festival, you may want to choose an area closer to the action. The city’s Central Business District is a great place to stay if you’re going to an event at the Superdome or the Smoothie King Center.

Home to the NFL’s New Orleans Saints, the Superdome also hosts events like the NCAA Final Four and the Essence Music Festival. I went to WrestleMania there a few years ago and had an absolute blast!

Over at the arena, the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans play ball. The season lasts from the fall through the end of spring, and there are home games very often during this time. They also have big concerts here quite often.

Staying in the CBD puts you super close to the stadium and arena and it’s really not that far to get to the French Quarter. The streetcar makes a quick and affordable trip between the two.

Here are a few of the best choices for accommodation in the Big Easy’s Central Business District:

Hyatt Regency

Location: 601 Loyola Avenue

Rating on Booking.com: 8.9/10

Price: Rooms from $189

It’s hard to beat this location if you’re headed to a sporting event in New Orleans. This 4-star hotel is just a stone’s throw from both the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center.

They have a wide variety of rooms here to suit all budgets, all the way up to some super fancy executive suites. There are quite a few restaurants and bars on-site, as well as a well-stocked fitness center if you need to work off all those calories! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Drury Plaza

Location: 820 Poydras Street

Rating on Booking.com: 9.3/10

Price: Rooms from $196

There’s a lot to love about this hotel, starting with the location. You’re close to landmarks like Lafayette Square and the World War II Museum and right up the street from the scenic Riverwalk. It’s also just a few steps from the streetcar that’ll bring you to the Quarter.

The Drury Plaza has a nice outdoor pool with a jacuzzi and 24-hour fitness and business centers. Oh yeah, and you also get breakfast as well as free snacks and drinks in the evening when you stay here.

This place has thousands of positive reviews! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Ace Hotel

Location: 600 Carondelet Street

Rating on Booking.com: 8.6/10

Price: Rooms from $161

This hip boutique hotel is an excellent choice if you prefer something a bit more exciting than average chain hotels. Suites here come with living rooms featuring things like turntables and guitars, a nod to the importance of music in NOLA.

Speaking of music, there’s a venue right on-site here. Three Keys is open late and has live music most nights as well as a full bar and snacks.

During the day, you can recover up at the rooftop pool. There’s also a bar up there for when you want to get the party going again! Click here to see the latest price from Booking.com.

Now You Know Where To Stay in New Orleans!

As you can see, you have plenty of awesome choices when it comes to places to stay in New Orleans. Wherever you decide to stay, I’m sure you’ll have a blast in the Big Easy.

One word of advice about booking a place during big events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest -—do it early! Rooms go fast and the prices keep on rising during these types of events in New Orleans.

Have you been to New Orleans and have a great recommendation for where to stay, eat, or drink? Drop a comment below and let us hear about it!

Looking for more New Orleans articles? Check out these posts:

21 Awesome Things To Do in New Orleans

7 Best Swamp Tours in New Orleans

Top 10 New Orleans Festivals – A Guide To The City’s Best Events

New Orleans Bars: 10 Best Places To Grab a Drink

New Orleans Food: 10 Must-Try Dishes in The Big Easy

New Orleans Cocktails: 7 Must-Try Cocktails

10 Best Hotels on Bourbon Street: A Guide To The French Quarter

Images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com. Check them out for beautiful royalty-free photos.

The post Where To Stay in New Orleans: Neighborhood & Accommodation Guide appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Where To Stay in New Orleans: Neighborhood & Accommodation Guide published first on https://travelaspire.weebly.com/

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oselatra · 6 years

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Essential New Orleans

An extensive guide to eating, drinking, dancing, karaoke-ing, strolling and Carnivaling in the Crescent City.

Carnival season in New Orleans kicked off in early January and reaches its peak on Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras day, which falls this year on March 2. Any time is the right time to visit New Orleans, but there is something special about this time of year, when it can feel like the whole creative force of the city is devoted to the art of celebration. No rough guide can do it justice — the city is inexhaustible — but here's a starter kit. If you're picturing frat boys barfing on Bourbon, don't worry: There's a better way.

Eat

First things first, pack in as many of these New Orleans classics as you can: The fried chicken at Willie Mae's Scotch House, the muffaletta at City Grocery, oysters at Casamento's, the jambalaya supreme at Coop's Place. Other good spots for Cajun/Creole/soul food: Li'l Dizzy's Cafe and Dooky Chase. And yes, I'm stating the obvious here, but it must be said — go get beignets and a cafe au lait at Cafe Du Monde. A tip that might save you an hour: If there's a line, ignore it. They don't make this clear to tourists, but locals know — there is no hostess, you just keep your eye out for someone leaving, have a seat at any un-bussed table, and a waiter will swoop in before you know it.

While this is a topic of endless local debate, for my money, the best po-boys in town are at Domilise's. For a different twist, try the immaculately stuffed barbecue shrimp po-boy at Liuzza's by the Track. If you want the full po-boy tour, longtime midtown haunt Parkway Bakery and Tavern is also worth a visit. And to cure your late-night hankering, Gene's dishes out hot sausage po-boys 24 hours a day from its can't-miss-it bright-pink building at the corner of St. Claude and Elysian Fields, always a wild (if occasionally dodgy) scene in the wee hours.

On the fancier end of the spectrum, the hottest table in town might be Saba, the new Mediterranean restaurant from James Beard Foundation Award-winning chef Alon Shaya. Among the elaborate and unforgettable hummus options: blue crab with beech mushrooms, lemon butter and mint; lamb tongue with pickled barberries, red onion and almonds.

Cochon, from another James Beard award-winner, Donald Link, is a favorite spot for casual splurging for locals and foodie visitors alike. Cochon serves up Cajun-influenced downhome gourmet; it's the sort of place where you can find both a world-class wine list and fried alligator. The Louisiana Cochon is its show-stopper: pork braised overnight into a succulent and crispy cake, topped with pork cracklins, cabbage and pickled turnips. If you can find the room, other highlights include the wood-fired oyster roast, the rabbit and dumplings, and the indulgent charcuterie plate. Ask about moonshine offerings. Other great restaurants from Donald Link: fine dining at Herbsaint, seafood at Peche and casual Cajun deli and butcher shop Butcher next door to Cochon.

Cochon is one of a number of contemporary restaurants in New Orleans that blend fine dining with country cooking. A couple of other masters of this form, both uptown: Coquette and Patois. If you can score the one outside table at Patois, it's the perfect romantic spot for a date. Have yourself a pickle-tini: Hendrick's gin plus juice from Patois' homemade bread-and-butter pickles.

Meanwhile, for fine dining on the finer end, the big spenders should make a reservation at August or Compère Lapin. Or if you have a hankering for old-fashioned New Orleans decadence rather than the contemporary foodie scene (think turtle soup, Oysters Rockefeller, bread pudding, classic French Creole rabbit dishes, served up in roaring-'20s opulence), some of the best options: Brigtsen's, Brennan's, Clancy's and the ultimate classic, Commander's Palace, where the 25-cent martini happy hour for Friday lunch remains the supreme see-and-be-seen scene for the dandy set.

If you want to go fancy but you're on a budget, check out the city's best happy hours: Domenica — 2-5 p.m., half-off wood-fired pizza and half off drinks; Luke — 3-6 p.m., 75-cent oysters on the half shell and half-off drinks.

The best bang for your buck in town: Boucherie. Everything on the rotating and vibrantly eclectic "casual fine dining" menu is good: boudin balls, scallops, grit fries, sashimi, bacon brownies, Waygu beef brisket, Krispy Kreme bread pudding. And it has the best Pimm's Cup in the city, if you ask me. Its sister restaurant around the corner, Bourreé, a Cajun smokehouse, butcher and patio beer garden, serves up seasonal fresh-fruit daiquiris, hot wings, boiled peanuts, boudin links and more — an absolute gem for laid-back al fresco dining.

Other cozy, relaxed neighborhood spots: Bennachin offers up West African comfort food in the French Quarter; Bacchanal is a wine bar in the Bywater that serves exquisite tapas in a picturesque outdoor courtyard with live jazz; the small and intimate 1000 Figs serves impeccable (and affordable) Mediterranean cuisine in mid-city; and Pizza Delicious is a casual, counter-service restaurant in the Bywater that has become a local favorite — true to its name, its thin-crust pizza is delicious. Be ready for lines, but check out Turkey and the Wolf, the Irish Channel sandwich shop that was recently named the best new restaurant in the nation by Bon Appétit magazine.

For breakfast, the best vibe is Pagoda and the best food is Toast, while the talk of the town is a new spot, Molly's Rise and Shine. Satsuma Cafe and Surrey's Cafe and Juice Bar are great neighborhood spots. If you're in need of morning munchies in the Quarter: Stanley is a touristy but fine option in Jackson Square; Clover Grill on Bourbon Street is an inviting greasy diner for the hungover set.

Drink

My vote for the best cocktail in the city is the Ramos Gin Fizz at the Sazerac Bar. Yes, it has a hefty price tag at $14. But you're on vacation: Treat yourself. The Sazerac Bar, in the Roosevelt Hotel a block off the Quarter, is an art deco masterpiece, with a mahogany bar, walnut-paneled walls and iconic murals by the artist Paul Ninas. This is the bar where legendary Louisiana Gov. Huey P. Long held court, always with a Ramos Gin Fizz in hand. The story goes that Long got a highway built between Baton Rouge and New Orleans just so that he could speed his limo from the state Capitol to the gin fizz awaiting him at the Sazerac Bar in an hour flat. Among the other too-good-to-check stories: While staying at an upscale New York hotel, Long was unsatisfied with its version of the drink and flew the top bartender at the Sazerac Bar up to "teach these New York sophisticates how and what to drink." I don't blame the Kingfish — the Sazerac Bar's Ramos Gin Fizz remains heavenly stuff.

Meanwhile, for inventive and contemporary takes on fancy cocktails, stop by Bar Tonique, or check out the Cuban-inspired frozen cocktails at Manolito.

But maybe you just want cheap beer that's cold, and you don't mind a little grit and grime. The following dive bars have low prices, an aroma that lingers from before the city's smoking ban, and plenty of character (and characters): Iggy's, The John, Big Daddy's, BJ's, Bud Rip's, Cutter's, Snake and Jake's Christmas Club Lounge, Miss Mae's.

While gallivanting around in the French Quarter, have a Bloody Mary at Molly's at the Market (ask for it spicy). Other cozy bars downtown that are worth a pit stop: In the French Quarter — Lafitte's, Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone, Cosimo's. In the Marigny — Lost Love Lounge, R Bar, Mimi's.

And when it's time to take it all in, the best rooftop bar, with stunning views of the city: Hot Tin.

Be merry

Preservation Hall remains the city's premier place to see traditional New Orleans jazz; make sure to get tickets in advance, as the intimate space inevitably fills up. For the booming funk of the city's many brass bands, the more adventurous souls among you might seek out the hallowed neighborhood dives that serve as meccas for live brass: check the listings at the Candlelight Lounge, Bullet's, Vaughn's and the Mother in Law Lounge. For the uptown set (Tulane students like to dance, too!) — the Maple Leaf is another great spot. Or just wait for the happy surprise of seeing a brass band play in the street — walk around Frenchmen Street and you'll inevitably come across one blasting on a corner. Frenchmen is home to the Spotted Cat, a terrific spot for trad-jazz, klezmer, Cajun and blues, with patrons spilling out to dance in the street; other spots to check the listings on Frenchmen include Snug Harbor, d.b.a. and Blue Nile. If you are lucky enough to be in town when a second line parade is rolling with a brass band on a Sunday afternoon, this quintessential New Orleans experience is not to be missed — check wwoz.org for upcoming second lines or just keep your ear open for tips.

Karaoke in New Orleans is like karaoke everywhere, except the guy belting out "Born to Run" might be wearing a space insect costume made of immaculately woven neon tinsel. Kajun's, a divey downtown joint, is thusly one of the most spirited karaoke bars I've ever set foot in. Located on St. Claude Avenue, a hard-partying street in the heart of a hard-partying city, Kajun's has all of the cheap-beer-fueled abandon with a dash of psychedelic mayhem. If New Orleans is famous for its high-culture musical traditions, the city also hums on pastiche and kitsch. Kajun's is the sort of establishment where the besotted fool singing a Lisa Loeb song begins to feel like a messenger from God.

St. Claude Avenue is rapidly gentrifying these days, but remains home to longtime bars that serve as nightlife headquarters for the city's outré scenesters. Just down the block from Kajun's, the AllWays Lounge, an expansive freaky-deaky performance space and watering hole — what David Lynch might imagine for a dive bar — is one of the most joyously unique venues in the city, and a great spot to see the full creative wizardry of local revelers. Other venerable bars on the strip to check out, hosting everything from dance parties to brass to death metal: Hi-Ho Lounge, Saturn Bar, Siberia. One block up, the extremely divey St. Roch Tavern hosts raucous and sweaty nights devoted to New Orleans bounce music. The St. Claude corridor would also be the area where you might befriend a crusty rogue at the bar who can fill you in on the wacko happenings in the New Orleans downtown scene that are too spontaneous and secretive to find in listings like this one.

The best place to swim in your undies and/or eat a waffle: The Country Club, a Bywater mansion that houses the late-night after-party scene for weird New Orleans — with a bar, restaurant, swimming pool, sauna and hot tub. They no longer allow skinny dipping, but the Country Club retains a swanky anarchy in the wee hours; meanwhile, once the sun comes up, they serve one of the best brunches in the city.

Out and about in town

If you need a quiet moment to get away from it all, head to City Park. The 1,300-acre sanctuary is one of the nation's oldest parks, offering a green respite from the concrete bustle and buzz of New Orleans since 1854. Rent a paddle boat, canoe or kayak to explore the park's waterways, or wander around and check out the botanical garden, the sculpture garden, the antique wooden carousel at the old-time amusement park and the New Orleans Museum of Art, the city's flagship fine arts museum. It's also worth a stroll to follow the bayou on the east end of the park down into the picturesque Bayou St. John neighborhood.

City Park features the oldest grove of mature live oaks in the world. The Singing Oak, near the park's Esplanade entrance, is one of the most enchanting spots in the city. The work of local artist Jim Hart, the tree is subtly adorned with giant chimes (up to 14 feet long), positioned to catch the breeze from the nearby lake and ring a pentatonic scale. Sit beneath the shade of the drooping live oak and enjoy the gentle symphony. It's the perfect place for a picnic: Grab provisions at mid-city's neighborhood grocery store Canseco's or, better yet, pick up a few pounds of cooked crawfish from Danny's #1 Seafood in the Seventh Ward. Short of stumbling upon a neighborhood crawfish boil, a do-it-yourself, peel-and-eat picnic is the best way to have crawfish in New Orleans; skip the buckets at overpriced French Quarter restaurants and get a big bag fresh from Danny's or from Cajun Seafood, which has various locations around town. FYI for the hardcore mudbug fanatics eager to host your own boil: You can get live crawfish shipped home or even take them as a carry-on on a plane.

One of the most delightful ways to see a long stretch of the city is to hop on a streetcar. If you're in the French Quarter and want to see uptown New Orleans, take the St. Charles streetcar, which goes all the way from the heart of the Quarter to the riverbend on the other side of the town, through the north end of the Garden District, Audubon Park and just south of the Loyola and Tulane campuses. It's a perfect trip for house-gazing and people-watching. New Orleans Original Daiquiris is just around the corner from the last stop uptown; pick up a daiquiri to give your ride a little buzz. Warning: Trying to take the streetcar on Mardi Gras weekend can be nearly impossible because of the crowds; the St. Charles streetcar is also not an option when St. Charles is on a parade route.

For shopping and strolling, try Magazine Street six blocks south of St. Charles at the other end of the Garden District, a charming stretch of boutiques, antiques and restaurants. The French Quarter is also great for ambling. Skip Bourbon Street unless you just have to have a grain alcohol concoction in a novelty neon container; instead hop one block over and try walking the length of Royal Street from Canal to Esplanade during the daytime. You can also catch a $2 ride at the foot of Canal Street on the Algiers Ferry, which offers beautiful views of the city as it crosses the Mississippi River to Algiers Point, a walkable neighborhood on the West Bank.

And make time for these absolute New Orleans treasures: Domino Sound Record Shack, a collector's paradise; the interactive sound installation Music Box Village, an open-to-the-public wonderland of musical houses and structures; and the Backstreet Cultural Museum, a warmly curated collection honoring Mardi Gras Indians, second lines, jazz funerals and other aspects of the city's black cultural history.

Carnival

If you want the absolute pinnacle of Mardi Gras madness, you'll want to make the trip for Mardi Gras day and the weekend preceding it, but keep in mind that the parades and celebrations of Carnival go on for weeks beforehand, with schedules easy to find online.

The bigger parades can be overwhelming, but they're a fun window into how much of a communal, family event Carnival is (particularly further from the Quarter on the parade routes). The best of the biggies: the irreverent Krewe du Vieux, famous for its wicked satire, kicks things off in mid-February; the all-female Krewe of Muses rolls uptown on the Thursday before Mardi Gras (its elaborately bedazzled shoes are one of the most prized "throws" of Mardi Gras season); and the historically black Krewe of Zulu tosses hand-painted coconuts in its mammoth procession on Mardi Gras day.

Everyone, at least once, should try the bone-rattling thrill of hanging out under an overpass on a Mardi Gras parade route, where the processions pause for the high-school marching bands to take advantage of the throbbing acoustics under the bridge.

Various nontraditional parades have more manageable crowds, more opportunities for impromptu participation, and often the most interesting DIY art. Dance along with the costumed revelers at the Box of Wine and Red Beans walking parades; check out the incredible shoebox-sized tiny floats of the all-miniature parade, 'tit Rex; gawk at the rolling art installation that is the science-fiction-themed Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus; and woof along with Barkus, the all-dog parade. Things get stranger still if you can hunt down one of the various secret, no-permit parades by word of mouth; the Mystic Krewe of Eris provides an experience you won't soon forget if you can find them.

If you are in town for Mardi Gras weekend, check out the Panorama Brass Band at AllWays Lounge on Saturday night. Make sure to get some sleep on Monday — the party on Mardi Gras day starts first thing in the morning and lasts all day. Start downtown with the walking parades of the Society of St. Anne or the St. Anthony Ramblers, featuring the most lovingly outlandish costumes in the city. They don't follow precise routes, but R Bar or Mimi's are good spots to join up, and they roll down Royal all the way into the Quarter. Or start your morning uptown on St. Charles to watch Zulu and follow them into the Quarter. One way or another, spend some time checking out the costumes and mini-krewes on Royal, which provides a steady stream of wonders all day. Catch an outdoor band in Jackson Square, then duck into Pirate's Alley around the corner for an absinthe, then mosey to the Moonwalk riverfront park, where the day's adventurers take a minute to relax by the Mississippi.

It may take some searching, but Mardi Gras day is also one of just two days a year that you can witness an utterly singular New Orleans cultural tradition: Mardi Gras Indians are out chanting, singing and strutting in the stunning costumes that they have worked on all year. The best spots to find them are under the I-10 overpass on Claiborne and outside the Backstreet Cultural Museum in the Seventh Ward.

Essential New Orleans

#Essential New Orleans

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