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***Official New Orleans Thread*** (2 Viewers)

Tiger Fan

Footballguy
So I've always wanted to start this thread, and I had the time today....so here goes. Feel free to post any questions you might have and any of the locals here can answer. I'll update this original post with any other info as well

Hotels

Where you stay is primarily dependant on what your trip will consist of, budget, etc. There is no shortage of hotels in NOLA at all different prices.

French Quarter

• Bar none the best hotel IMO is the Royal Sonesta….located right on Bourbon St. and is pretty affordable (Depending on the time of year). I highly suggest if you are going for a bachelor party to see if you can swing a balcony room (make sure it faces Bourbon) for the weekend

• Tons of other hotels in the quarter, just post any deals you’re thinking about and the local here can answer some questions

CBD

• The CBD goes from Poydras St. to Canal Blvd. and are typically cheaper than the French quarter, in exchange for a few minutes longer walk. You’ll find multiple different hotels of all of your major hotel brands (Hilton, Marriot, Sheraton, etc) here

• The hotels on Canal are about a 5 minute walk closer to Bourbon St. than the ones on Poydras St.

• You’ll find Harrah’s spanning the entire city block from Poydras to Canal near the river

Warehouse District

• A nice handful of restaurants and night life in the Warehouse District, which is typically where all of your young professionals live and many locals frequent at night

• A decent amount of hotels here

• Walking to the quarter is probably out of the question, but it’s a very cheap cab ride

Restaurants

• I’m going to post my favorites and let others chime in and I’ll add to the initial post

You'll need some transportation from downtown for these

• Only place to begin here will be to talk about Dante’s Kitchen, which FBG Tipsy McStagger runs. I’ve only been for brunch (outstanding) but tons of FBGs here have visited for dinner, and frankly I’ve never heard anything bad about it from anyone (on FBG and locally). You will need a car/cab to get here from downtown

• Jacque Imo’s – again you have to take cab….but this is my favorite restaurant in New Orleans. They’ll take reservations only with parties of 6 or more. Atmosphere is great, as well as the food. My favorite thing to do there is just have everyone order one appetizer and share them all for the table. Grab a beer at Maple STreet Bar (next door) while you wait (it'll be long - but worth it) and enjoy an excellent meal in New Orleans with great atmosphere...very cool place.

• **** and Jenny’s – another place you’ll need to cab to. Along the same lines as Dante’s Kitchen or Jacque Imo’s. You can bring your own wine for a corkage fee if you roll that way.

Walking distance from downtown (quarter/CBD)

• At one point (and likely you’ll go multiple times) you have to go for beignets (French donuts) and the only place to do this is Café Du Monde. NEVER GO TO CAFÉ BEIGNET – not good at all.

• Johnnie's Po Boys - holy crap these are good - Cash only!

• Mothers (on Poydras St. near the river) – this is the standard place that people recommend to go get an authentic po boy. Now there are better places to get po boys in new Orleans, as I feel that Mother’s is over priced, but it’s not a bad recommendation. Get the Debris sandwich.

• Luke – this is located in the Hilton Hotel on St. Charles (not the Hilton Riverside)…..I would recommend hitting this up for lunch if you get a chance. This is right next to my office building and have been there multiple times and have never been disappointed

• Drago’s – located in the Hilton Riverside. You have to get the char broiled oysters. Great other seafood as well

• Acme Oyster House – classic New Orleans seafood here. Affordable and always good

• Café Maspero – located right on Decatur in the quarter…you get a ton of classic new Orleans food at a very affordable price. Cash only, and the wait can be long for lunch of the weekends if you don’t get there early.

• Café Pontalba – located right in Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Similar to Café Maspero, but less of a crowd and they take credit cards. Cool atmosphere out in the square if it’s nice outside

• Port of Call – located on Esplanade, which is on the other (away from Canal) side of the French Quarter. Great hamburgers and a cool atmosphere. Likely to have longer waits on weekends

• All of the next restaurants I’m listing are going to be above $20/person are great places for dinner with a big group or a date. Make sure to call ahead for reservations, dress codes. Can walk to any of these from the Quarter/CBD

o Galatoire’s

o Arnaud’s

o Mr. B’s

o Palace Café

o Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse Deemed a no by the FBG contingent

o Bourbon House

o Brennan’s

o Court of Two Sisters – for Brunch

Nightlife

• Obviously, you can walk up and down Bourbon St. until you find the bar/club that suits you’re needs…but that may get old depending on how long you’re staying…..so I’ll throw out a few suggestions

• Gold Mine – this is a few blocks off of Bourbon and is where a lot of locals go late night (after weddings, etc). You want good looking young chicks that have been drinking all night; this is a good place to start. Very collegey atmosphere (cheap drinks and booty music)

• Red Eye – this is in the Warehouse District, but again a lot of locals hang out here. Typically a little younger crowd (21-26) average IMO and again collegy

• FnM’s – for the ultra late night crowd. You’ll find those who are 21-40 here for late night dancing/drinking. Typically there isn’t a sober person in the bar. Definitely take a cab here, as you wouldn’t want to be driving down there unless you know exactly where you’re going. Get the cheese fries

• Tipatina’s – good live music here…need to take a cab from downtown….right across the st. from **** and Jenny’s (above)

• House of Blues – in the quarter – can view they’re schedule online

• Tons of other holes in the wall where you can just walk in and grab a drink and listen to some jazz or whatever

• Piano Bar – Pat O’Briens. Fun time with a big group

Events

Mardi Gras - no explanation needed. Everyone should experience this once in their lives. 2008 date = February 5th, which is extremely early
French Quarter Fest - A free festival over during April. You can walk all around the quarter and visit the different vendors and hear different bands play. A very underrated festival IMO. You don't see nearly as many people as you do for jazz fest/mardi gras; but still get agood new orleans experience. 2008 dates = April 11-13
Jazz Fest - An absolute blast. 2008 dates = April 25-27, May 1-4. Tons of bands, great food, culture etc. There are a buch of concerts at night as well and the entire city has a lot going on.
Essence Music Festival - put on by Essence Magazine during the 4th of July weekend. Concerts in the dome all 3 days, lots of people around for the nightlife
link to all of the festivals in the cityNon-Partying Things to Do

WW2 Museum - I've never been, but I've read nothing but great things about it. Supposdly very thorough and accurate, budget a good half of a day at least
Audobon Zoo - One of the top zoos in the country - and they serve beer
Aquarium - right on the riverfront, very cool
Mardi Gras Museum - You can take a ferry for $1 (right in front of the aquarium) across the river and take a tour of Mardi Gras World. You get to see where/how all of the floats are made. Decent way to spend a few hours
Voodoo tours - there are a ton of them in the quarter
Just walk around - You could literally walk around the quarter for awhile just taking in the different scenesPlaces to Avoid

Tujacque's - very overpriced restaurant

Mulates - tourist trap

Deanies - you get get much better quality fried seafood many other places

 
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So I've always wanted to start this thread, and I had the time today....so here goes. Feel free to post any questions you might have and any of the locals here can answer. I'll update this original post with any other info as well

Hotels

Where you stay is primarily dependant on what your trip will consist of, budget, etc. There is no shortage of hotels in NOLA at all different prices.

French Quarter

• Bar none the best hotel IMO is the Royal Sonesta….located right on Bourbon St. and is pretty affordable (Depending on the time of year). I highly suggest if you are going for a bachelor party to see if you can swing a balcony room (make sure it faces Bourbon) for the weekend

• Tons of other hotels in the quarter, just post any deals you’re thinking about and the local here can answer some questions

CBD

• The CBD goes from Poydras St. to Canal Blvd. and are typically cheaper than the French quarter, in exchange for a few minutes longer walk. You’ll find multiple different hotels of all of your major hotel brands (Hilton, Marriot, Sheraton, etc) here

• The hotels on Canal are about a 5 minute walk closer to Bourbon St. than the ones on Poydras St.

• You’ll find Harrah’s spanning the entire city block from Poydras to Canal near the river

Warehouse District

• A nice handful of restaurants and night life in the Warehouse District, which is typically where all of your young professionals live and many locals frequent at night

• A decent amount of hotels here

• Walking to the quarter is probably out of the question, but it’s a very cheap cab ride

Restaurants

• I’m going to post my favorites and let others chime in and I’ll add to the initial post

You'll need some transportation from downtown for these

• Only place to begin here will be to talk about Dante’s Kitchen, which FBG Tipsy McStagger runs. I’ve only been for brunch (outstanding) but tons of FBGs here have visited for dinner, and frankly I’ve never heard anything bad about it from anyone (on FBG and locally). You will need a car/cab to get here from downtown

• Jacque Imo’s – again you have to take cab….but this is my favorite restaurant in New Orleans. They’ll take reservations only with parties of 6 or more. Atmosphere is great, as well as the food. My favorite thing to do there is just have everyone order one appetizer and share them all for the table. Grab a beer at Maple STreet Bar (next door) while you wait (it'll be long - but worth it) and enjoy an excellent meal in New Orleans with great atmosphere...very cool place.

• **** and Jenny’s – another place you’ll need to cab to. Along the same lines as Dante’s Kitchen or Jacque Imo’s. You can bring your own wine for a corkage fee if you roll that way.

Walking distance from downtown (quarter/CBD)

• At one point (and likely you’ll go multiple times) you have to go for beignets (French donuts) and the only place to do this is Café Du Monde. NEVER GO TO CAFÉ BEIGNET – not good at all.

• Mothers (on Poydras St. near the river) – this is the standard place that people recommend to go get an authentic po boy. Now there are better places to get po boys in new Orleans, as I feel that Mother’s is over priced, but it’s not a bad recommendation. Get the Debris sandwich.

• Luke – this is located in the Hilton Hotel on St. Charles (not the Hilton Riverside)…..I would recommend hitting this up for lunch if you get a chance. This is right next to my office building and have been there multiple times and have never been disappointed

• Drago’s – located in the Hilton Riverside. You have to get the char broiled oysters. Great other seafood as well

• Acme Oyster House – classic New Orleans seafood here. Affordable and always good

• Café Maspero – located right on Decatur in the quarter…you get a ton of classic new Orleans food at a very affordable price. Cash only, and the wait can be long for lunch of the weekends if you don’t get there early.

• Café Pontalba – located right in Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Similar to Café Maspero, but less of a crowd and they take credit cards. Cool atmosphere out in the square if it’s nice outside

• Port of Call – located on Esplanade, which is on the other (away from Canal) side of the French Quarter. Great hamburgers and a cool atmosphere. Likely to have longer waits on weekends

• All of the next restaurants I’m listing are going to be above $20/person are great places for dinner with a big group or a date. Make sure to call ahead for reservations, dress codes. Can walk to any of these from the Quarter/CBD

o Galatoire’s

o Arnaud’s

o Mr. B’s

o Palace Café

o Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse

o Bourbon House

o Brennan’s

o Court of Two Sisters – for Brunch

Nightlife

• Obviously, you can walk up and down Bourbon St. until you find the bar/club that suits you’re needs…but that may get old depending on how long you’re staying…..so I’ll throw out a few suggestions

• Gold Mine – this is a few blocks off of Bourbon and is where a lot of locals go late night (after weddings, etc). You want good looking young chicks that have been drinking all night; this is a good place to start. Very collegey atmosphere (cheap drinks and booty music)

• Red Eye – this is in the Warehouse District, but again a lot of locals hang out here. Typically a little younger crowd (21-26) average IMO and again collegy

• FnM’s – for the ultra late night crowd. You’ll find those who are 21-40 here for late night dancing/drinking. Typically there isn’t a sober person in the bar. Definitely take a cab here, as you wouldn’t want to be driving down there unless you know exactly where you’re going. Get the cheese fries

• Tipatina’s – good live music here…need to take a cab from downtown….right across the st. from **** and Jenny’s (above)

• House of Blues – in the quarter – can view they’re schedule online

• Tons of other holes in the wall where you can just walk in and grab a drink and listen to some jazz or whatever

• Piano Bar – Pat O’Briens. Fun time with a big group
Well done Tiger Fan!!!!
 
Great thread and nice summary!

How about Events?

I've been to several Mardi Gras, 3 Sugar Bowls/New Years, and 2 Jazz Fests...plus some other trips for regular weekends when I dated a girl from there. NOLA is probably my favorite city in the world (until I let go of my 20's!).

Not sure what you locals think...but if you are going to pick an event to see...I suggest Jazz Fest.

Not as crowded or young as Mardi Gras...and is a great time to see the real NOLA. Always an incredible list of acts to see...then following up with trips to Tipatina's, House of Blues, or other clubs to see the night shows from The Meters, Neville Bros, or other NOLA acts. Incredible!

 
great posts thus far. not much that i can add that hasnt been mentioned. this is by far my favorite city in the country. my hotels of choice are the two marriots on canal(but then again i really only stay in marriotts). great location. and my fav restaurants were palace cafe, lil dizzys and a place called the joint. didnt get to go to dantes because they were closed when i was last there. but when i return i will be checking it out. hopefully soon! anyone who hasnt been to nola really needs to check it out.

 
Great thread and nice summary!

How about Events?

I've been to several Mardi Gras, 3 Sugar Bowls/New Years, and 2 Jazz Fests...plus some other trips for regular weekends when I dated a girl from there. NOLA is probably my favorite city in the world (until I let go of my 20's!).

Not sure what you locals think...but if you are going to pick an event to see...I suggest Jazz Fest.

Not as crowded or young as Mardi Gras...and is a great time to see the real NOLA. Always an incredible list of acts to see...then following up with trips to Tipatina's, House of Blues, or other clubs to see the night shows from The Meters, Neville Bros, or other NOLA acts. Incredible!
i am so looking forward to checking out jazzfest. i have heard great things. i went to essence fest last year which was great. might check it out again this year. but jazzfest is what i really want to see!
 
Anyone into heavier music needs to check out the Dungeon just off Bourbon... I have seen people straight up ####### in skull room cages upstairs on more than one occasion. Great mix of zombie, type O, etc to offset the same ol same ol out on Bourbon. Opens at midnight I believe. Bathrooms are hidden in the bookcases at the base of the stairs.

Huge thumbsup to Dante's Kitchen. Tipsy is the man and the food is to date the best meal the GF and I have ever had... and I'm not just saying that because he'll read this. Fantastic place.

Agreed with getting off Bourbon for a bit... goldmine is a blast. I've stayed at the Ritz Carton on Canal during Mardis Gras before... highly entertaining the contrast you get from walking out in the river of piss outside into that place.

[icon]

 
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Awesome thread TF...

My and some college buddies will be down at some point the first half of 2008...

Trying to get them to figure out their schedules so we can pick a time...

I'd love to do Jazzfest, but none of them are really into music, food, or culture, so that's proving to be somewhat difficult...

They are mainly interested in massive amounts of boozing, gambling and wimmens...

I don't know if there is a bad time in NO for these things...

Right now it looks like it might be Feb 20-24th weekend...

 
Awesome thread TF...My and some college buddies will be down at some point the first half of 2008...Trying to get them to figure out their schedules so we can pick a time...I'd love to do Jazzfest, but none of them are really into music, food, or culture, so that's proving to be somewhat difficult...They are mainly interested in massive amounts of boozing, gambling and wimmens...I don't know if there is a bad time in NO for these things...Right now it looks like it might be Feb 20-24th weekend...
The boozing and the gambling can happen any weekend. Obviously, the bigger the crowd in the city, the more wimmens there will be...It doesn't look like too much is going on durng Feb. 20-24....but you should still have a good time either way. If you'll me hitting up the casino multiple times, I would definitely look into staying at the Riverside Hilton or the Harrah's hotel. Any othe rquestions, just fire away.
 
Jazz fest is the thing to do. the wife and I haven't missed a weekend in 9 years. we even had her grandmother die during one weekend a few years back...I asked her if she wanted to leave, she said "no way Amanda Shaw is about to come on the Fais Do-Do stage". Good times at the jazz fest and plenty of good, good food!! :thumbup:

 
Awesome thread TF...My and some college buddies will be down at some point the first half of 2008...Trying to get them to figure out their schedules so we can pick a time...I'd love to do Jazzfest, but none of them are really into music, food, or culture, so that's proving to be somewhat difficult...They are mainly interested in massive amounts of boozing, gambling and wimmens...I don't know if there is a bad time in NO for these things...Right now it looks like it might be Feb 20-24th weekend...
The boozing and the gambling can happen any weekend. Obviously, the bigger the crowd in the city, the more wimmens there will be...It doesn't look like too much is going on durng Feb. 20-24....but you should still have a good time either way. If you'll me hitting up the casino multiple times, I would definitely look into staying at the Riverside Hilton or the Harrah's hotel. Any othe rquestions, just fire away.
Will do...Now just have to get my buddies to actually clear their schedules, book flights, etc...This is the challenging part...It's like trying to herd cattle with a dental floss lasso...Last time we did this, 6 of us went to Vegas and we ended up at 3 different hotels.. :thumbup: Two of my buddies managed to book the wrong hotel online even with me on the other end of the phone telling them which hotel we had already booked...Unbelievable...
 
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Cool thread. Would love to go back again (been twice so far). Maybe the next time the Giants are in town.

As far as additional requests, how about places to avoid? Whether out and out bad or just not worth the time/money...that would be helpful

 
Cool thread. Would love to go back again (been twice so far). Maybe the next time the Giants are in town.

As far as additional requests, how about places to avoid? Whether out and out bad or just not worth the time/money...that would be helpful
Hmmmm....pretty tough
I always thought that Emeril's (the original one) wasn't that good.
Also, the first weekend of Mardi Gras is nothing compared to the 2nd weekend.
Don't go to any casino other than Harrah's (there are two others....both very trashy)
As in any big city, stay wherever the crowds are
 
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Cool thread. Would love to go back again (been twice so far). Maybe the next time the Giants are in town.

As far as additional requests, how about places to avoid? Whether out and out bad or just not worth the time/money...that would be helpful
Hmmmm....pretty tough
Also, the first weekend of Mardi Gras is nothing compared to the 2nd weekend.
So what weekend would that be this year? The one leading up to the 5th? Or the one occurring directly after the 5th?
 
Cool thread. Would love to go back again (been twice so far). Maybe the next time the Giants are in town.

As far as additional requests, how about places to avoid? Whether out and out bad or just not worth the time/money...that would be helpful
Hmmmm....pretty tough
Also, the first weekend of Mardi Gras is nothing compared to the 2nd weekend.
So what weekend would that be this year? The one leading up to the 5th? Or the one occurring directly after the 5th?
The good weekend of Mardi Gras is Feb 1-3, the lesser weeknd is Jan 25-27
 
Cool thread. Would love to go back again (been twice so far). Maybe the next time the Giants are in town.

As far as additional requests, how about places to avoid? Whether out and out bad or just not worth the time/money...that would be helpful
Hmmmm....pretty tough
Also, the first weekend of Mardi Gras is nothing compared to the 2nd weekend.
So what weekend would that be this year? The one leading up to the 5th? Or the one occurring directly after the 5th?
The good weekend of Mardi Gras is Feb 1-3, the lesser weeknd is Jan 25-27
Gotcha...Thanks
 
Just got back from a long weekend there, and I've got nothing but good things to report.

I stayed at the Prince Conti hotel, and it was a great place for a low price. We got our room at $59 a night, and it was a pretty good sized room with a couch and sitting area in addition to a large bed area. The thermostat was broken in the first room they put us in, but a quick call downstairs got us an even bigger room for the inconvinience. Had a couple of drinks at the Hotel Bar (The Bombay Club) and then headed out for dinner at some Mexican Restaurant (El Gato Negro?). Bombay Club had 100 different styles of Martinis (although looking at what was in them I think the term Martini was used loosely on some of them) and a very cool sophisticated atmosphere. Drinks weren't cheap, but they didn't cheat you on the booze. The menu at the restaurant was limited, but had good flavor. Ended the night drinking 3 for 1's at the Bourbon Street Blues Company. There are better places to hear music, but it was close to the hotel and the 3 for 1 offer was a good nightcap.

Saturday we went and checked out Oakwood Mall, (the one that got torched during Katrina) and they did a good job of rebuilding it. Got a cool Saints cap and a Saints 2008 calendar there, but didn't spend a lot of time there. From the mall we headed over to Parkway and I had a fantastic Roast Beef Po Boy with a side of sweet potato fries...just awesome. From there we hit the Black and Gold store for some Saints wear, and I spent way more than I should...but when am I going to have the opportunity to shop at a Saints store again? From there we went and drank some Abitas and shot some pool at some dive until it was time to meet some friends at Maspero's for dinner. Had a great big plate of red beans and rice (and a few more Abitas), then rolled over to Crescent City Brew Pub (? I was a little hammered, so I only caught the Crescent City B part, could have been brewery, brew pub) which was just down the street. We tried all the house brews, and we were split on which was the best (Christmas Lager or Red Stallion). We knew we were going to be tailgating on Sunday for the Saints game, so we headed back to the hotel with our 'go-cups'.

Sunday we figured we'd eat some complimentary breakfast at the hotel for a nice pre-tailgaiting base, but it was pretty bare. A small selection of sweet rolls and some Orange Juice didn't cut quite the base we wanted, but we had cornered ourselves timewise and had to make do. As we headed toward the dome, it was just a sea of black and gold but it was a little colder than usual so the tailgating crowd was a little slim. We met some friends at one spot and then helped carry coolers over to the dome. There was a band on stage there playing your basic crowd favorites, but it was a great time just talking with everyone about their post-Katrina experiences. Without the good base, the drinks were a little more powerful than usual. It was alright with me though, as it was one less $7 beer I'd buy inside. We sat up with the Rafter Bangers in the 640ish section, and it was actually a very good view of the game. I was very surprised that even with those seats, where you had to duck to avoid hitting the superdome roof, the view was still very good. Had some Nachos and a coke for $10. Did not get cheated on the Nachos, plenty of cheese and jalepenos. After the game, ate at Masperos again only because I was in the mood for a muffalatta, and damn was it good.

Monday was a day to drive around and check out some places that Katrina hit. We saw a lot of houses that had really built back up nice, and more than a few that still had the rusty colored line where the water was. We drove over to where the levee broke and saw how they've walled it up. We ate a great breakfast at some little place...I can't remember the name right now, but I'll ask my friends down there later.

I'm terrible with the details, but we stopped in several bars and had a beer while we walked around the quarter. Everybody was super nice, even when I pronounced Abita as "ah-bitta" instead of "ah-beeta". During the weekend we also ate at Carmelo's (Italian) and it was very good (but a bit pricey).

I was surprised that there weren't more pan handlers on the street. My wife and I walked a lot and we only ran into 3 over a 4 day span. In a very weird way the quarter seemed even safer than before. I can't put my finger on why, but it just seemed like there were less 'thugs' milling about. It's still no Mackinac Island, so watch your purse, but don't miss out going there just because you think it's not safe post-Katrina.

I'm sure I'm missing a lot, as we stopped and ate and drank whenever we wanted. As most of you who've been to New Orleans can attest, some of the details get a little fuzzy as the night goes on.

All in all, a fantastic time.

...and I had a real good Alligator Tail Po Boy someplace.

 
Drink three hurricanes got to the "Cats Meow"....report back to the FFA the next morning.
I think this was my first time down in the quarter where I didn't have a Hurricane. We did stop by the Cats Meow and listen to some guy warble "Hey Ya".The whole trip we were constantly on the move, looking to the next place. Really only sad that I missed two places, Dante's and Court of Two Sisters.
 
Just got back from a long weekend there, and I've got nothing but good things to report.I stayed at the Prince Conti hotel, and it was a great place for a low price. We got our room at $59 a night, and it was a pretty good sized room with a couch and sitting area in addition to a large bed area. The thermostat was broken in the first room they put us in, but a quick call downstairs got us an even bigger room for the inconvinience. Had a couple of drinks at the Hotel Bar (The Bombay Club) and then headed out for dinner at some Mexican Restaurant (El Gato Negro?). Bombay Club had 100 different styles of Martinis (although looking at what was in them I think the term Martini was used loosely on some of them) and a very cool sophisticated atmosphere. Drinks weren't cheap, but they didn't cheat you on the booze. The menu at the restaurant was limited, but had good flavor. Ended the night drinking 3 for 1's at the Bourbon Street Blues Company. There are better places to hear music, but it was close to the hotel and the 3 for 1 offer was a good nightcap.Saturday we went and checked out Oakwood Mall, (the one that got torched during Katrina) and they did a good job of rebuilding it. Got a cool Saints cap and a Saints 2008 calendar there, but didn't spend a lot of time there. From the mall we headed over to Parkway and I had a fantastic Roast Beef Po Boy with a side of sweet potato fries...just awesome. From there we hit the Black and Gold store for some Saints wear, and I spent way more than I should...but when am I going to have the opportunity to shop at a Saints store again? From there we went and drank some Abitas and shot some pool at some dive until it was time to meet some friends at Maspero's for dinner. Had a great big plate of red beans and rice (and a few more Abitas), then rolled over to Crescent City Brew Pub (? I was a little hammered, so I only caught the Crescent City B part, could have been brewery, brew pub) which was just down the street. We tried all the house brews, and we were split on which was the best (Christmas Lager or Red Stallion). We knew we were going to be tailgating on Sunday for the Saints game, so we headed back to the hotel with our 'go-cups'.Sunday we figured we'd eat some complimentary breakfast at the hotel for a nice pre-tailgaiting base, but it was pretty bare. A small selection of sweet rolls and some Orange Juice didn't cut quite the base we wanted, but we had cornered ourselves timewise and had to make do. As we headed toward the dome, it was just a sea of black and gold but it was a little colder than usual so the tailgating crowd was a little slim. We met some friends at one spot and then helped carry coolers over to the dome. There was a band on stage there playing your basic crowd favorites, but it was a great time just talking with everyone about their post-Katrina experiences. Without the good base, the drinks were a little more powerful than usual. It was alright with me though, as it was one less $7 beer I'd buy inside. We sat up with the Rafter Bangers in the 640ish section, and it was actually a very good view of the game. I was very surprised that even with those seats, where you had to duck to avoid hitting the superdome roof, the view was still very good. Had some Nachos and a coke for $10. Did not get cheated on the Nachos, plenty of cheese and jalepenos. After the game, ate at Masperos again only because I was in the mood for a muffalatta, and damn was it good.Monday was a day to drive around and check out some places that Katrina hit. We saw a lot of houses that had really built back up nice, and more than a few that still had the rusty colored line where the water was. We drove over to where the levee broke and saw how they've walled it up. We ate a great breakfast at some little place...I can't remember the name right now, but I'll ask my friends down there later.I'm terrible with the details, but we stopped in several bars and had a beer while we walked around the quarter. Everybody was super nice, even when I pronounced Abita as "ah-bitta" instead of "ah-beeta". During the weekend we also ate at Carmelo's (Italian) and it was very good (but a bit pricey).I was surprised that there weren't more pan handlers on the street. My wife and I walked a lot and we only ran into 3 over a 4 day span. In a very weird way the quarter seemed even safer than before. I can't put my finger on why, but it just seemed like there were less 'thugs' milling about. It's still no Mackinac Island, so watch your purse, but don't miss out going there just because you think it's not safe post-Katrina.I'm sure I'm missing a lot, as we stopped and ate and drank whenever we wanted. As most of you who've been to New Orleans can attest, some of the details get a little fuzzy as the night goes on.All in all, a fantastic time....and I had a real good Alligator Tail Po Boy someplace.
:confused:
 
Drink three hurricanes got to the "Cats Meow"....report back to the FFA the next morning.
I think this was my first time down in the quarter where I didn't have a Hurricane. We did stop by the Cats Meow and listen to some guy warble "Hey Ya".The whole trip we were constantly on the move, looking to the next place. Really only sad that I missed two places, Dante's and Court of Two Sisters.
:thumbup: Cats Meow is usually jumpin' and TF, help me on this, there's another good breakfast place...is it the Camelia Grill (I wanted to say Magnolia, but I am thinking it's Camelia?)
 
Drink three hurricanes got to the "Cats Meow"....report back to the FFA the next morning.
I think this was my first time down in the quarter where I didn't have a Hurricane. We did stop by the Cats Meow and listen to some guy warble "Hey Ya".The whole trip we were constantly on the move, looking to the next place. Really only sad that I missed two places, Dante's and Court of Two Sisters.
:blackdot: Cats Meow is usually jumpin' and TF, help me on this, there's another good breakfast place...is it the Camelia Grill (I wanted to say Magnolia, but I am thinking it's Camelia?)
Camelia Grill is open 24/7 and is a great place for breakfest...it's located uptown. Downtown, the Coffe Pot on St. Peter is solid as well.
 
I have 24 hours (maybe 36 if I push it) in New Orleans. I've never been there before and don't know when I'll get a chance to go back. Lot's of good things posted so far, what can't I miss?

I just realized that I'll be there probably sometime between Feb 4-6th which is the tail end of Mardi Gras. What can I expect?

 
I have 24 hours (maybe 36 if I push it) in New Orleans. I've never been there before and don't know when I'll get a chance to go back. Lot's of good things posted so far, what can't I miss? I just realized that I'll be there probably sometime between Feb 4-6th which is the tail end of Mardi Gras. What can I expect?
Mardi Gras is the 5th
 
I have 24 hours (maybe 36 if I push it) in New Orleans. I've never been there before and don't know when I'll get a chance to go back. Lot's of good things posted so far, what can't I miss? I just realized that I'll be there probably sometime between Feb 4-6th which is the tail end of Mardi Gras. What can I expect?
If you're there on Feb 4th (Monday before Mardi Gras) I would do the following:1. Eat beignets at Cafe Du Monde for Breakfast2. Walk around the french quarter during the day - will be alot of people around and lots to do3. Eat at Acme Oyster House for lunch 4. Walk around some more5. Treat yourself to a nice dinner at one of the restaurants in the original post (keep in mind you'll probably have to get reservations6. Walk around the quarter at night (totally different scene)Post where you're going to say and how many people will be in your party and I can get a little more specific
 
I :rolleyes: NOLA

spent a long weekend there and have to report:

Dante's Kitchen has the best brunch in the city
Yo Mama's burgers are as good as Port of Call (across from Pat O's entrance)
No matter how many different Po Boy places I try, I still love Johnny's the best (St. Louis near Decatur - only open til 3 pmish)
Franky and Johnny's (arabella near tchoupitoulas) has the best fried green pepper rings in the universe
Mandina's is still worth the wait
Check out the walking tour from the Jean Lafitte National Park visitors center (on decatur a few blocks uptown from jackson square) - Ranger Jim is the man - 930 and 230
Go past all the lights and nonsense on Bourbon until you get to the Jean Lafitte Blacksmith Shop Bar at least once
 
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I :wub: NOLA

spent a long weekend there and have to report:

Dante's Kitchen has the best brunch in the city
Yo Mama's burgers are as good as Port of Call (across from Pat O's entrance)
No matter how many different Po Boy places I try, I still love Johnny's the best (St. Louis near Decatur - only open til 3 pmish)
Franky and Johnny's (arabella near tchoupitoulas) has the best fried green pepper rings in the universe
Mandina's is still worth the wait
Check out the walking tour from the Jean Lafitte National Park visitors center (on decatur a few blocks uptown from jackson square) - Ranger Jim is the man - 930 and 230
Go past all the lights and nonsense on Bourbon until you get to the Jean Lafitte Blacksmith Shop Bar at least once
:mellow: Purple Voodoo is the drink there.
 
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Jazz fest schedule of performances on the first Sunday. Who would you reccommend? I'm thinking Elvis Costello would be good, but not sure about the others.
What kind of music do you like? Either way, make sure you get the crawfish bread and stop by each of the stages at some point even if you've never heard of the artist. The gospel tent is pretty cool and you can't go wrong with any of the brass bands.
 
I appreciate good music of all types, rock, classic, jazz, country, pop, and hip-hop. Any other foods that we should not miss?

 
I appreciate good music of all types, rock, classic, jazz, country, pop, and hip-hop. Any other foods that we should not miss?
if nobody sticks out to you on sunday, Billy Joel and O.A.R are headlining separate stages on Saturday, and there are a bunch of other good rock bands.Jazz fest is known for the crawfish bread...but really, you can't go wrong with any of the food there. Crabmeat poboy is also good. just check out the food list on the website. actually decent prices too for a festival
 
I appreciate good music of all types, rock, classic, jazz, country, pop, and hip-hop. Any other foods that we should not miss?
Just got back from a bachelor party there this weekend.K Paul's -- Paul Prudhomme's restaurant. It was fantastic. I had the turtle soup and the blackened Louisiana drum fish. Both were terrific - I could rave about the drum fish for hours. It was awesome.

On Saturday we went to Brennan's Steakhouse. A very good steakhouse but nothing particularly out of the ordinary. If you want a very good steak, I recommend it. I also had the turtle soup -- didn't like it as much as K Paul's.

 
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Looks like I may be heading to NO for a long weekend sometime between May-August (flexible at this time). Are there events going on that I should specifically target? Not likely that I can scramble down for the Jazz festival, so interested in other offerings I may be unaware of.

 
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Looks like I may be heading to NO for a long weekend sometime between May-August (flexible at this time). Are there events going on that I should specifically target? Not likely that I can scramble down for the Jazz festival, so interested in other offerings I may be unaware of.
Hmmm...while there are always a ton of different festivals going on in new orleans, typically the major ones avoid the summer months because of the heat. Greek Fest is during Memorial Day weekend, and is a lot of fun. If that doesn't do it, check out http://www.nola.com/festivals/ for some more details. Any specific questions, feel free to post.
 
Looks like I may be heading to NO for a long weekend sometime between May-August (flexible at this time). Are there events going on that I should specifically target? Not likely that I can scramble down for the Jazz festival, so interested in other offerings I may be unaware of.
Hmmm...while there are always a ton of different festivals going on in new orleans, typically the major ones avoid the summer months because of the heat. Greek Fest is during Memorial Day weekend, and is a lot of fun. If that doesn't do it, check out http://www.nola.com/festivals/ for some more details. Any specific questions, feel free to post.
Essence Fest is during July 4th weekend.
 

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