ew Orleans is a city that doesn’t need much introducing. Though it certainly fell on hard times after Katrina, the Big Easy is restored to its former glory and easily one of the States’ most unique places to visit. NOLA as you’ll commonly hear locals call it (not “N’AWLINS” ya damned tourists), is our second stop along the National Dive Bar Tour, presented by SEAGRAM’S 7. We asked some local New Orleanians about their city to get a solid list of places to see and things to do.
Locals like Trixie Minx (cultural ambassador and burlesque dancer) were nice enough to act as our NOLA experts and provided us with some excellent places to see while visiting. Feel free to peruse some of the spots they mentioned below.
Where to Eat
Brennan’s Restaurant
This fine-dining stop is one of the city’s most famed landmarks for Creole cuisine, fancy breakfasts and bananas Foster for dessert. Great way to start the day.
Visit.
Cafe Du Monde
The iconic New Orleans cafe needs little intro … known for café au laits, chicory coffee and beignets since 1862. A classic for a reason.
Visit.
Commander’s Palace
A notable spot since 1880 for classy Creole fare that is well-known for its jazz brunch in a chandelier-hung space.
Visit.
Central Grocery and Deli
The founder of this place invented the muffuletta sandwich, and the small Italian market sells other specialty foods as well. Great spot for a quick bite to eat.
Visit.
Where to Drink
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
One of New Orlean’s best-known bars, this classic haunt at the Hotel Monteleone has a circular bar that revolves like a carousel … who’d’ve thought?
Visit.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
Located in one of the oldest buildings in the city (there since the 1700s), Lafitte’s is a dimly lit hang serving beer and frozen drinks to locals and tourists alike.
Visit.
Ruby’s Roadhouse
A dive bar recommended by Trixie, the neighborhood mainstay features cocktails, game leagues and assorted live bands in cabin-esque digs that make you feel right at home.
Saturn Bar
Another of NOLA’s great dives is this offbeat nightspot that offers a full bar, alternative bands, guest DJs and famous dance parties.
Visit.
Bonus Activities
Obviously, if you go to New Orleans, you gotta hit Bourbon Street for a bit. Grab a hurricane, Vieux Carre, Hand Grenade, Absinthe Frappe or a famed “Big Ass Beer” and you’ll have completed your initiation as a NOLA tourist. Rent a bike and cruise around the French Quarter taking in all the sights. The American Bicycle Rental Company rents cruisers so you can roll in style. Catch some live music at the Maple Leaf Bar perhaps. Feeling a little more adventurous? Visit one of the burlesque shows (many are free) or a “boylesque” show at One Eyed Jacks in the French Quarter (a very iconic New Orleans bar). If you do, say hi to Trixie for us.
If you’re around town on September 19, stop by Snake and Jake’s and let us buy you a drink. RSVP here and we’ll see you at the bar.
Special thanks to our friends from SEAGRAM’S 7, Deep Eddy Vodka, Montauk Brewing Co., Archer Roose Wines and Hotel Palms.
