New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans - a city that is drowning in culture, and community. You will go there and have a smile on your face the entire time. New Orleanians are warm, genuine, and of course, ready to party. Get down with the music, the food, and the people — a trip you won’t want to end.
Uptown & The Garden District: The upcoming new majestic, yet manicured, young yet historic full of cute coffee shops, while sheltered by canopies of blossoming as ancient magnolia trees.
Absolutely stay at Hotel Saint Vincent, the fashionable, yet understated, cozy, yet sexy hotel is situated in an old-school 1861 orphanage building. Liz Lambert who owns Bunkhouse Hotel Group (and who my mom and I are obsessed with) transformed this building into an incredible hotel with 75 rooms and suites, two incredible restaurants, a mysterious guest-only bar, and the most relaxing pool. This hotel has impeccable service full of texture, color, and details that’s a place that you’ll never want to leave. If you want one reason to visit New Orleans, this could be it.
If you’re at Saint Vincent, walk across the street to Mojo Coffee, for an oat milk latte with the cutest baristas. Enjoy your coffee on a walk down Magazine Street or relax on the front porch.
Another new hotel, Columns in a former private mansion, is full of whimsical patterned wallpaper, and period furnishings. with only 20 rooms. It’s very Southern American, with a sophisticated touch.
Have brunch at Le Petite Grocery, with locally-sourced food with classic NOLA brunch essentials.
Or brunch at the famous, Commander’s Palace.
For your sweet tooth:
Afternoon ice cream at Parish Parlor or a beer and donuts at District Donuts & Sliders. Or grab a smoothie or breakfast sandwich at Fat Boy Pantry.
Cold Drink before Dinner:
Happy hour margaritas at Juan’s Flying Burrito, or a cold PBR at Barrel Proof.
Dinner at Blue Giant Chinese, the most exquisite and definitely the most delicious Chinese food I’ve ever had.
Warehouse District: Full of art, a mix of sophisticated, trendy, and a hint of grunge with amazing large warehouse buildings.
Ace Hotel NOLA - I’m not the biggest lover of Ace Hotels, however, this Ace is incredible. It’s in the Warehouse District (which I love), with incredible Scandinavian interiors that are both moody, and elegant. This restaurant is known to be home-style Italian, with a Southern twist. Of course, there is an incredible rooftop pool and bar. Keep in mind - the Ace is a party-hotspot so if you’re wanting a more relaxing moment, go during a time of year that’s more relaxed, or try another spot.
Spend the morning at, The National WWII Museum. This museum has been ranked the second best museum in the world…might not seem like the NOLA vibe, but it’s beyond incredible.
After walk over to, Peche. Oh, Peche. What a restaurant. It’s. the perfect spot for hopping up on the bar, taking down the oysters, tuna tartare, and all of the other delectable seafood options they have. Highly recommend sitting at the bar, we be-friended the super down-to-earth “Oyster man”, and had the pleasure of chatting with him the entire meal.
Take a walk on “Gallery Row”, Julia Street.
Afternoon pick-me-up:
Drip Affogato Bar for Vietnamese coffee, ice cream, or matcha tea.
Dinner at Cochon Restaurant, same owner as Pesche. In a historic building where you will find the famous pork and Cajun eats.
Other Essentials:
Kermit Treme Mother-in-Law Lounge: If you want the most authentic New Orleans music, vibe, and people then make your way to the famous American Jazz Trumpeter, Kermit Ruffins bar in Treme. On Sunday he performs, it’s truly incredible.
Paladar 511: A neighborhood restaurant with a sleek, but cozy vibe. A mix of pizza, veggies, pastas, and seafood - the food is delicious. A must-go.
French Truck Coffee: Multiple locations, simple & good coffee.
Central Grocery & Deli is a classic New Orleans institution. Sandwiches, salami, fresh bread…
Frenchmen Street: Can’t visit New Orleans without hitting the buzzling, vibrant, and iconic area to hit up one jazz bar after the other.
Port of Call, a classic hole-in-the-wall burger place.