I just returned from a cross country road trip to see New Orleans, Arkansas, Memphis, Mississippi, Alabama and more! Thanks to the popular periodical, Garden and Gun, our trip was a highly "curated" experience. They really know joie de vivre down in New Orleans.
A few new foodie treats for me were turtle soup, gulf shrimp po'boys, gulf oysters, and Mississippi delta tamales. Oh, and Frozen Bourbon Milk Punch. It is now my eggnog replacement.
Wow, New Orleans venues - this town really knows how to get down. the CMP Conclave is held here in September. They sure know how to pick a location!
New Orleans - You may hear "you want an original New Orleans" experience - or do you want an ORIGINAL New Orleans experience? A city rich in diversity, spirit (literally), and land and water. Well, for a first timer, these were my initial recommendations:
Commander's Palace - brunch/lunch in jacket in tie - 25 cent Martinis! What more can you ask for? Perfect location for a corporate dinner/social luncheon or even a special occassion.
Cafe Du Monde - I'm not sure if you can rent it out, but money talks - so, while I adore the chickory coffee and beignets, what I really love this the green chairs, outdoor seating, and the hustle and bustle of Cafe Du Monde. They do have takeout! Enjoy your coffee down on the river.
As you walk through NOLA, you will get to know the large cement walls in front of homes. If you're lucky, a door or gate may be cracked and you get to peer into some kind of magic fairy lcourtyards! Pools, fountains, gardens, - amazing. Perfect for a lawn event. Check out home rentals on VRBO, Homeaway, AirBnB.
Since there is more to NOLA than the French Quarter, enjoying the "CBD" aka Central Business District is where new development is happening. We enjoyed James Beard Ward Winning Peche raw bar and Cochon Butcher. Both available for catering, private events- very hip, very crowded!
For transportation options, know that you can be your own party by creating a parade for yourself! Get yourself a "second line" band - and hit Decatur Street. Don't be surprised if you get some parade joiners - that's all the fun. Is there anything better than hearing a brass band in the French Quarter? I think not.
NOLA has a new streetcar line which is slowly developing. A bit cumbersome to pay, it is for tourists, and not for a daily commuter but a great releif from walking when needed.
We will be back! Hopefully for an event, if not for a trip for me! Laissez les bons temps rouler !