New Orleans 2015 – Standing outside Commander’s Palace
I’m definitely bias and Chicago will FOREVER be my favorite foodie town. Runner up would definitely be a toss up between New York and New Orleans. New Orleans won my heart when I visited for the first time back in December of 2015. I can’t believe its been that long ago!! For those not familiar with New Orleans (aka NOLA) it’s located along the Mississippi River in the Southeastern region in the U.S. state of Louisiana. New Orleans is famous for Creole and Cajun Cuisine. Also, I think we all know they know how to get down for Mardi Gras.
Every year I make sure to plan a trip during January/ February to combat the seasonal depression I feel as winter time deeply sets in. This year my bestie and I decided it was time to venture back to New Orleans to do a less touristy experience and explore the different neighborhoods. So before you see my itinerary and say…”but you didn’t do this or that…” lol let’s just say New Orleans is that place you have to go back to over and over again and even then you’ll want to come back for more.
So before I tell you about this time, I’ll let you know the places I visited back in 2015:
- Cafe Du Monde – Super touristy, but they’re known for having the best beignets.
- Acme Oyster – OMG loved the chargrilled Oysters here!
- Commander’s Palace – Was recommended to us for the 25 cent (yes cent) martini’s and food was quite tasty.
- Victory – Black Owned bar with great vibes. I actually think it’s named something else now.
- Lukes – Has a great Oyster Happy Hour
Also, side note I went to one of the best Art shows of my entire life in NOLA back in 2015. We were walking down the street and one of my friends bumped into her artist friend (Hebru Brantley). Hebru invited us to an art show he was participating in called Amnesty International. It was very inspiring and we even bumped into R&B singer Usher while there. Definitely a memorable experience!
Artist Hebru Brantley and Tavi J.
Okay enough of wandering down memory lane. Fast forward to my time there this year – 2023. I actually think (depending what part of the world you’re coming from) NOLA is the perfect weekend get away. We arrived Saturday and left out Tuesday afternoon. This is what we did in our 72 hour getaway.
Swamp and Bayou Tour
- French Market – NOLA has the oldest public French Market in America. Great place to go for goods and tons of food court options.
- Dakar NOLA – This 7 course Senegalese tasting dinner menu is inspired by Chef Serigne Mbaye childhood memories in Senegal. Chef Serigne was a 2022 finalist for the James Beard Awards best emerging chef.
- Swamp & Bayou Tour – Unfortunately, we didn’t see any alligators, but it’s nice to say I did this at least once.
- Morrow – I was told to come here for some of the best oysters in NOLA. This spot did not disappoint. The oysters were elevated with the inclusion of crab meat mixed in. One thing I definitely loved was the vibe and you can clearly tell their meals are prepared fresh and from scratch. Great black-owned establishment.
- Second Vine Wine – Another Black-owned establishment offering great wine and spirits. We did a little wine tasting put together for us based on our pallet preference. Also, I have to mention you’ll be enamored by the beautiful works of art showcased on the walls.
- Barrel Proof NOLA – I think I’m getting too old for the shenanigans going on in the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. Lol. Barrel Proof is a quick car ride away (10 minutes from the French Quarters) and I loved the low key vibe. I also did an awesome whisky tasting here.
- Sofia’s – Really cute Italian restaurant we went to for brunch. Loved the crust on the pizza, but next time I definitely have to try the handmade pasta. Also side note loved the music.
Hotel St Marie
Well there you have it… 72 hours in NOLA! I need to go back for another 72 lol. In case you’re curious we stayed at Hotel St. Marie located in the heart of the French Quarter. Really cute boutique hotel, the price was just right, staff was friendly, and nice size hotel rooms.
I LoVE quick getaways! Hmmm… Where should I go next?
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