5 Days in the Big Easy

My San Francisco partner in crime was in desperate need of a quick getaway from that 9 to 5 life, so we mulled over a few destinations until we landed on New Orleans. For better or worse, we decided on staying in the drunken heart of the French Quarter.

The southern charm is real. While we managed to escape the touristy French Quarter for a few nights, we really didn’t mind being amidst all the chaos. Our first night was spent bar hopping down Bourbon Street, sipping on hurricanes and people watching. All aboard the struggle bus!

I’m a huge fan of the different Spanish, French and gothic architectural styles mishmashed from building to building. Jackson Square next to the Mississippi River is very quaint, and enjoying a cafe au lait along with a couple of beignets at nearby Café du Monde is a must.

One of the biggest reasons for our visit was definitely the food. I must have had jambalaya every single day. No regrets. Some of our favorite eats include:

• Killer PoBoys
• Acme Oyster House
• The Gumbo Shop
• Café du Monde
• Cochon Restaurant

Rolando and Tiffany joined in on the debauchery a few days later and we hit up some pretty good jazz clubs, the most notable of which is the jazz staple Preservation Hall. We also hit up Maple Leaf and The Spotted Cat on Frenchman Street (per Charlie Pie’s recommendation). Frenchman Street is a lot less touristy and crazy than the Quarter but still has that raucous vibe thanks to a nightly bazaar and a plethora of bars.

I’m happy to finally cross New Orleans off the list and experience that genuine Southern hospitality for myself. Whether it’s learning about our sobering history at the newly expanded World War II Museum or enjoying pool-side sazeracs, there’s definitely plenty to eat, drink and see. Laissez les bons temps rouler!