NOLA Chronicles: A Four-Day Odyssey through the Heart of New Orleans
Day 1: Checking In and Bourbon Street Delights
Our New Orleans adventure commenced with an enthusiastic afternoon arrival at The Troubadour, our home away from home. Funny enough, I was supposed to come here on a Bachelor Party for my buddy Daniel, however, a last minute flight change plus me being too cheap to buy refundable tickets left me stuck with a few pre-paid nights at this Hilton property. Alas, pro-tip - even with non-refundable fares, Hilton will allow you to change the venue/date of any prepaid travel for $50 in the USA/CA or Carribean. Given I lack creativity - I opted to just go to the exact same place I had intended.
The boutique hotel's chic ambiance welcomed us, setting the tone for an unforgettable trip. After checking in, we wasted no time in sampling the creative concoctions at the hotel's rooftop bar, enjoying a refreshing cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the city.
Eager to dive into the city's vibrant spirit, we meandered through the lively streets, finding ourselves on the infamous Bourbon Street. The eclectic mix of music, neon lights, and lively revelers made for a raucous introduction to the New Orleans nightlife scene. Our evening culminated in a Voodoo and Vampire Ghost tour recommended by our friends Becca & Sebastian, where we explored the mystical and haunted side of the city, immersing ourselves in the captivating tales spun by our knowledgeable guide. Definately a fun experiance and we highly recommend to anyone who comes to New Orleans.
Day 2: Beignets, Jazz, and a Surprise Concert
The following day began with a well-deserved sleep-in, followed by a pilgrimage to the iconic Café Du Monde. Indulging in pillowy beignets and robust coffee, we soaked in the atmosphere of Jackson Square and the French Quarter while enjoying the lively street performers outside - go check out our review of this joint!
Afterward visit to Voodoo Authentica provided insights into the city's spiritual side, complements to our guide from the night before for the recommendations. We also meandered the streets in search of a good foot massage (we walked a ton) and finally stopped at The Gumbo Shop to satisfy our cravings for authentic Creole flavors.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, an unexpected musical delight awaited us at the Superdome. My unfamiliarity with Garth Brooks added an amusing twist to the evening as Katrina and everyone I met was shocked at the fact I did not know who the heck this cultural icon was, and we found ourselves captivated by the opening act, Lainey Wilson, setting the stage for a memorable night of country tunes and lively energy in the Superdome (GO SAINTS!!!!!). As a curious aside…When I asked my close friend “Hey Matt, whats your 15$ stadium beer strategy” he poignantly responded “I grit my teeth, wipe my teams from my eyes and tap card”.
Amen Matt.
Day 3: Creatures of the Deep and Culinary Delights
Our third day in the enchanting city of New Orleans unfolded with the promise of marine wonders at the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium. From vibrant underwater ecosystems to the mesmerizing world of insects, we found ourselves captivated by the diversity of life that these exhibits showcased. The aquarium's immersive displays transported us into the depths of the ocean, while the insectarium sparked our fascination with the intricate and often overlooked creatures that inhabit our world.
Despite Central Grocery's unfortunate closure, thwarting our initial Muffuletta plans, serendipity led us to the nearby Market Cafe. Nestled across the street, it served as an unexpected culinary haven, offering a delightful alternative to the famed sandwich. The air was filled with the savory aroma of Creole spices as we indulged in a delectable Muffuletta, savoring each bite beneath the shadow of the city's historic architecture.
With our appetites satisfied, we set our sights on the lively atmosphere of Frenchmen Street in the evening. The vibrant thoroughfare is renowned for its eclectic mix of bars and live music venues. As we strolled along, the soulful melodies of jazz and blues spilled out onto the streets, beckoning us to explore the myriad of options that awaited.
Each bar on Frenchmen Street seemed to have its own distinct personality. From intimate jazz clubs to lively blues joints, we found ourselves immersed in the rich musical tapestry that defines New Orleans. The intimate settings and talented musicians created an ambiance that felt both authentic and electric. We hopped from one venue to another, letting the rhythm of the city guide us through a night filled with laughter, conversation, and the unforgettable sound of live music.
As we navigated the diverse music scene of Frenchmen Street, it became evident that this stretch of the city wasn't just a destination; it was an experience, a living testament to the soulful heartbeat of New Orleans. Each note, each laughter-filled alleyway, and each welcoming bar contributed to the mosaic of memories that would forever be etched in our minds. Day 3 wasn't just about exploration; it was a celebration of the vibrant spirit that makes New Orleans truly unique. We immediately knew we needed to return when more places were open.
Commander's Palace stands as a culinary institution in the heart of New Orleans, and our visit on Day 3 was nothing short of a gastronomic delight. Located in the historic Garden District, this iconic restaurant has been a fixture in the city since 1880, boasting a rich history and a reputation for excellence and gave us an excuse to play dress up in an otherwise low key trip.
The ambiance of Commander's Palace is a seamless blend of Southern charm and refined elegance. With its Victorian architecture, vibrant turquoise exterior, and classic white linen tablecloths, the restaurant exudes a timeless grace that transports patrons to a bygone era. The interior is equally enchanting, adorned with colorful murals, polished woodwork, and a sense of grandeur that reflects the city's unique flair.
Known for its award-winning Creole cuisine, Commander's Palace offers a menu that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of New Orleans. So good, in fact, that we totally forgot to take photos…guess memories will have to suffice. Our culinary journey began with the renowned Turtle Soup, a signature dish that exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to tradition and innovation. The complex flavors of the soup, combined with the perfect balance of ingredients, set the stage for an extraordinary dining experience. I would be lying if I wasnt feeling a little bit guilty for downing a turtle but you’re not NOT going to try a signature dish when presented..are you?
For the main course, I indulged in a Cornish Hen that was a testament to the culinary mastery of the kitchen. The tender and succulent meat, paired with flavorful accompaniments, showcased the meticulous attention to detail that defines Commander's Palace.
However, the highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the Pecan Crusted Fish. Katrina, declared it the best fish she had ever tasted. The pecan crust added a delightful crunch to the flaky fish, while the accompanying sauce elevated the dish to a symphony of flavors. It was a culinary masterpiece that left an indelible mark on our taste buds.
As we savored the last bites of our dessert and reflected on the culinary journey that Commander's Palace had taken us on, it became clear that this dining establishment is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of the culinary arts, a homage to the vibrant flavors of New Orleans, and an experience that lingers in the memory long after the meal is over. Our dinner at Commander's Palace was not just a dining experience; it was a culinary symphony that resonated with the soul of New Orleans and was reasonably priced for the Michelin cred that it has.
Day 4: Rainy Reminiscence and Jazz Journeys
Our final day in the Big Easy began with a visit to The National WWII Museum, a poignant reminder of history's weight. A good choice, considering the next 4 hours of weather in NOLA consistent of torrential downpours. Lucky for us, this museum contained more than enough exhibits to kill that time AND THEN SOME. Would recommend alloting at least 4 hours if not more if you plan to visit.
Frenchmen Street beckoned once more, and we embraced the rain-soaked streets for a leisurely barhop but before we headed over we made a pitstop at Drago’s Seafood for charboiled (and regular) Oysters, Gator Taco’s, and some Crawfish Etouffee.
Finally at Frenchmen Street, venue after venue, we savored drinks and jazz tunes, bidding farewell to New Orleans with a symphony of notes echoing in our memories. As we reflected on our four-day escapade, it became clear that New Orleans had cast its spell on us, leaving an indelible mark of ex music, history, and culinary delights that would linger long after our departure.
A Frenchmen Street Compilation