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Hot Picks: New Orleans, LA
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
New Orleans is a great culinary destination. It is one
of the most unique and atmospheric of any cities in the US. The warmth,
graciousness and conviviality of the city can be felt from the moment
you arrive. The fine selection of lodging, restaurants and activities
is dizzying. However long your stay, you will regret leaving so soon and
vow to return. New Orleans captures and captivates.
Here are some options for your visit! Click on the picture to find the
information you want.
Where to Stay
The Renaissance Arts Hotel, New Orleans
Photo by Michael Reiss
If you desire to escape the ordinary, consider staying in an art gallery! The Renaissance Arts Hotel is a work of art in itself, both architecturally and in terms of the objects within. The lobby- cum-art gallery is a visual enticement where your sensual experience begins. Both the public spaces and the rooms themselves display works of art.
The Renaissance Arts Hotel has
dramatic interior spaces filled with art.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The spacious rooms combine stylish elegance with 21st century amenities.
Located in the heart of the newly hip warehouse district, the adjacent
art galleries, shops and trendy restaurant makes for great strolling.
La Cote Brasserie, the restaurant located at the lobby level of
the hotel, continues the artistic theme both in decor and memorable food.
The attentive service puts the finishing touch on this work of art, well
worth experiencing!
The rooms at the Renaissance Arts Hotel combine stylish elegance
with 21st century amenities.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Renaissance Arts Hotel
700 Tchoupitoulas St.
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 613- 2330
The Renaissance Pere Marquette, New Orleans
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, just one block from the historic French Quarter and six blocks from the Louisiana Superdome, The Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel is a historic, art-deco-style professional building, which opened its doors as a Renaissance Hotel in 2001.
The lobby of the
Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel is elegant and tranquil.
Photo by Michael Reiss
From your first steps into the stylish lobby, to the well appointed contemporary decor of your room, to the sleek virtuosity of Rene' Bistrot, located at lobby level, you experience a unique sense of place that is New Orleans. A welcoming, helpful staff and amenities that include a pool and fitness center make this an ideal place to enjoy the "Big Easy".
At "Club Level" at the Renaissance
Pere Marquette Hotel one can have a wonderful morning breakfast.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Renaissance Pere Marquette
817 Common St.
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504)525 1111
Le Richelieu, New Orleans
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located in the quiet, residential section of the French Quarter, Le Richelieu Hotel is an historic property, which offers charm, efficiency and convenience to its guests. The rooms are decorated to evoke the memory of many different cultures which make up the history of New Orleans. The hotel boasts of clientele as notable as Paul McCartney and its loyal repeat guest list speaks to the hospitality offered by its congenial staff. Of particular note is the complimentary self - parking, which is a rarity in the city.
The facade of Le Richelieu Hotel blends in with the historic
character of the French Quarter.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The hotel boasts of clientele as notable as Paul McCartney
and its loyal repeat guest list speaks to the hospitality offered by its
congenial staff. Of particular note is the complimentary, security self-parking,
which is a rarity in the city.
The rooms at Le Richelieu Hotel have great charm.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Le Richelieu
1234 Charters Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
(800) 535 9653
The Hubbard Mansion Bed and Breakfast, New Orleans
This Greek revival style mansion offers just the right combination of old world charm with its generational and Victorian antiques in a newly constructed home that offers all the modern conveniences. You will be graciously welcomed by your hosts, Don and Rosetta who have made their dream your reality while in New Orleans. Breakfast is a treat and a surprise as you await Rose's culinary inspiration of the day. The location on St. Charles Avenue is convenient to the trolley and just minutes away from any activity on your agenda for the day. The best part of the day may well be your return to the mansion!
This is one of the magnificent suites found at the Hubbard Mansion,
New Orleans.
Photo by Michael
Hubbard Mansion
Bed and Breakfast
3535 St. Charles
Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70115
(504) 897-3535
The Omni Royal Orleans, New Orleans
Located on legendary Royal Street, this beautifully renovated historic
property offers the modern comforts of a world class hotel including fitness
center, business center, pool, conference rooms, restaurant and bar while
retaining some of the charm and history of the quarter. Although it is
centrally and conveniently located in the heart of Royal St., it exudes
a sense of calm. The rooms are comfortably appointed and well insulated
from any street noise. The staff are gracious and accommodating. The
Omni Royal Orleans is a great find.
This is one of the Omni Royal Orlean's elegant and comfortable
rooms.
Omni Royal Orleans
621 St. Louis Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70140
(504) 529-5333
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Where to Eat
Rene' Bistrot
Photo by Michael Reiss
Interested in a gastronomic tour de France while in New Orleans? If so, your first stop is Rene' Bistrot located in the Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel. The sleek, contemporary decor offers a counterpoint to such classics as Alsatian Tart and Grandma's Chicken. But make no mistake, Rene takes these classics to places you've never tasted before. Every item offers the comfort of the known and the excitement of a new twist created by world-class chef, Rene' Bajeux (one of 50 French Master Chefs working in the US). The tour continues as you peruse the eclectic wine selections which offer breadth, depth and value at every turn. No Creole or Cajun fare to be found here, this is French cuisine at its finest!
This is the the sleek, contemporary interior at Rene' Bistrot .
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Tarte Flambe- Alsace Onion Tart with Nueske Bacon & Fromage Blanc
Risotto Carnarolli Risotto Rice, Duck Confit & Mascarpone, English
Peas, Lemon Mosto Oil
Favorite Entrees:
Bouillabaisse Fish Stew with Saffron Rouille & Croutons
St. Jacques Sea Scallops with Orange, Fennel & Black Olive Salad,
Basil Vinaigrette
Favorite Dessert:
Caramel Apple Napoleon Mulled Wine Caramel Poached Apple, Cinnamon Ice Cream
Rene' Bistrot's "Alsace Onion Tart
with Nueske Bacon & Fromage Blanc" is regional French
cuisine at its finest.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Rene Bistrot
Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel
817 Common St.,
New Orleans, LA 70112
Central Business District at Baronne St.
(504) 412 2580
La Cote Brasserie
Photo by Michael Reiss
Housed in the Renaissance Arts Hotel, La Cote Brasserie is an artistic and culinary tour de force. Chef Chuck Subra's palette is international, his brushstroke refined, and his works of culinary art satisfies the most discriminating of connoisseurs. He may truly be one of the most authentic chefs of New Orleans because his menu incorporates Creole, French, Asian and Portuguese culinary traditions. The wine list offers the range of viticulture traditions, both old and new world and provides possibilities for complimenting or contrasting with the assertive flavors of this culinary palette.
This is the refined,"artistic-inspired" interior of La
Cote Brasserie
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Tempura Shrimp, Spicy sesame dipping sauce & vegetable vermicelli
Foie Gras Poached pears & Verjus reduction
Favorite Entrees:
Seafood Cataplana Portuguese fish stew with mussels, clams and scallops
Cedar Plank Roasted Lobster, Red rice, baby vegetables & basil butter
emulsion
Favorite Dessert:
Bittersweet Chocolate Terrine with hazelnut ice cream & praline sauce
.
At La Cote Brasserie dishes are served with great panache.
Photo by Michael Reiss
La Cote Brasserie
Renaissance Arts Hotel
700 Tchoupitoulas St.,
New Orleans,LA 70130
Arts District at Girod St.
(504) 613 2350
Dick & Jenny's
.
Photo by Michael Reiss
"Go where the locals go" has never been better advice than when describing the dining experience at this charming Uptown home turned restaurant. Dick & Jenny's down home congenial vibes, cozy spaces and no-reservation policy serve to reinforce the "you'all-come-and-enjoy" motto of owners Dick and Jenny. They want everyone to have an equal chance to taste the kind of food that makes New Orleans such a unique culinary destination, at prices that everyone can afford.. Chef Dick Benz dishes up a feast for all the senses and co-owner, wife Jenny creates an ambiance that makes you feel like you're part of the neighborhood. The sensational Creole-French cuisine changes with the seasons except for those dishes that the locals insist upon. The quality, creativity and price benefit rank this restaurant on the short list of "must tries" in the city.
Dick & Jenny's friendly and charming dinning room is decorated
with ceramic plates custom made for special customers.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Fried Green Tomatoes and Louisiana Crab Cakes with Roasted Red Pepper
Aioli
Corn Fried Gulf Oysters With Southern Slaw And New Orleans Remoulade
Favorite Entrees:
Honey Roast Duckling with Savory Rosemary Corn bread pudding and Ginger
Peach Demi Glace
Fennel Seared salmon With Seafood Bouillabaisse Provençal - Mussels,
Shrimp, Crab and Scallops In a Tomato Saffron Broth
Favorite Dessert:
Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich Sundae
.
You'll enjoy the expertly prepared Creole-French cuisine at Dick
& Jenny's.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Dick & Jenny's
4501 Tchoupitoulas St.
New Orleans,LA
(504) 894 9880
Martinique Bistro
Photo by Michael Reiss
Martinique Bistro is located in a quaint country cottage on trendy Magazine Street. The restaurant serves full-flavored French fare with Caribbean flair. Chef Hubert Sandot uses a rich multi-textured palette to add intrigue, finesse and complexity to traditional dishes as well as surprising diners with utterly original new creations. Magic on the plate is equaled by magic in the glass, as knowledgeable serving staff suggest stunning wine pairings to complement every taste sensation.
This is the friendly and cozy interior of Martinique Bistro.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Pain Perdu with Duck Confit, Exotic Mushrooms, Dried Pears & William
Poire Demi-Glace
Exotic Mushroom, Caramelized Fennel & Leek Tart with Sunflower Shoots
& Truffle Vinaigrette
Favorite Entrees:
Beet and Horseradish Cured Wild Tasmanian Salmon on Mixed Field Greens
with Pickled Beets, Caperberries, Shaved red Onion & a Creamy Dill
& Horseradish Dressing
Gulf Shrimp Sautéed with Sun Dried Mango & Curry
Favorite Dessert:
Homemade Ice Cream and Sorbets such as strawberry balsamic, and, ginger maple syrup.
.
"Gulf Shrimp Sautéed with Sun Dried Mango & Curry"
is an example of the inspired French/Caribbean cuisine found at Martinique
Bistro.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Martinique Bistro
5908 Magazine St.
New Orleans,LA
(504) 8918495
Gautreau's
Photo by Michael Reiss
c is a converted antique drugstore in an uptown residential area. It has been transformed into a Parisian bistro, which is lively and cozy at the same time. Chef Mathias Wolf's New French American cuisine offers a range of classics and thoroughly modern dishes. His juxtaposition of ingredients offers interesting interplay and counterpoint, providing a sense of subtle satisfaction and surprise. The staff are professional and the Sommelier Kevin will enhance your dining experience with his creative suggestions for wine pairing.
Gauteau's has a lively Parisian bistro atmosphere.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Seared Sea Scallops with truffled black pepper linguini
Duck Confit with sautéed cabbage and sherry vinegar
Favorite Entrees:
Sautéed grouper with truffled cauliflower risotto and an herbed
vinaigrette
Braised Beef Short Ribs with roasted beets and horseradish consommé
Favorite Dessert:
Caramelized Banana Split with toasted walnuts, butterscotch and fudge sauce
.
"Seared Sea Scallops with truffled black pepper linguini"
is one of the many inspired and creative dishes at Gauteau's.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Gautreau's
1728 Soniat St.
New Orleans,LA
(504) 899 7397
Besh Steak House
Photo by Michael Reiss
You don't need to be an elite gaming person to eat at the John Besh Steak House at Harrah's Casino. What you do need is an appreciation for fine food, great beef, and exceptional wine service. This restaurant is far more than a steak house. It is a fine dining venue in the John Besh tradition, which happens to feature beef. Although the steaks are succulent, juicy, tender and full flavored, nearly half of the entrees feature fish, seafood and fowl, so there is something for everyone. Everyone will be delighted with the presentation, quality, quantity and creative accompaniments. The eclectic wine list is managed by a skilled sommelier,Saunders Conroy,who will creatively pair wines with your selections. The elegant decor and processional wait staff will quickly make you forget that you are in a casino, for in fact, you are in a culinary destination worthy of a special trip.
This is the hip, sophisticated atmosphere at the John Besh
Steak House at Harrah's Casino.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
The Besh Barbecued Shrimp served with warm French bread
Horseradish and Parmesan Roasted Oysters
Oysters Rockefeller,Four Louisiana oysters broiled on the half shell,
topped with baby spinach, smoked bacon, fresh parmesan and Pernod
Flash fried Asian Calamari, tossed with sweet chili sauce, served with
Sambal sour cream
Favorite Entrees:
40-Day Dry -Aged New York Strip Steak with blue cheese butter, onion
rings and molten marrow
Crispy Seared Day Boat Scallops with fresh truffle risotto
Horseradish Encrusted Fillet of Fresh Atlantic Salmon served with roasted
red pepper risotto and blood orange buerre blanc
Filet Mignon on a bed of chive mashed potatoes and sauce bordelaise
Favorite Dessert:
Brown butter brioche Bread Pudding, almonds and Irish whiskey ice
cream
Bread Pudding
.
John Besh Steak House at Harrah's Casino has creative and expertly
executed cuisine, as well a steak.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Besh Steak House at Harrah's
Harrah's Casino
4 Canal St.
New Orleans,LA
(504) 533 6000
Bombay Club
Photo by Michael Reiss
With a much deserved reputation as the place to go for the best selection of martinis in town,The Bombay Club is now extending its reputation to fine food and great entertainment to make this your one stop for a memorable evening. The ambiance is "clubby", the welcoming vibes extended by Owners Richard and Willie Fiske are neighborhood friendly and the cuisine by Executive Chef Nick Gile is haute without being haughty.
The Bombay Club offers superbly prepared gourmet food, including
this dish, "Horseradish Encrusted Fillet of Fresh Atlantic
Salmon served with roasted red pepper risotto and blood orange buerre
blanc."
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Oysters Rockefeller,Four Louisiana oysters broiled on the half shell,
topped with baby spinach, smoked bacon, fresh parmesan and Pernod
Flash fried Asian Calamari, tossed with sweet chili sauce, served with
Sambal sour cream
Favorite Entrees:
Horseradish Encrusted Fillet of Fresh Atlantic Salmon served with roasted
red pepper risotto and blood orange buerre blanc
Filet Mignon on a bed of chive mashed potatoes and sauce bordelaise
Favorite Dessert:
Bread Pudding
.
Along with outstanding creative bar drinks The Bombay Club
offers excellent nightly entertainment.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Bombay Club
830 Conti St.
New Orleans,LA
(504) 586-0972
Begues
Photo by Michael Reiss
If you are looking for a fine French meal with just enough Creole flair to remind you that you are in New Orleans, Begues at the Royal Sonesta Hotel fits the bill. French Maitre d Alain sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Settle into the comfortable room with ample space between tables to allow for conversation and savor the unsweetened butter and chicken liver pate that accompanies the selection of breads served warm and crusty. Delight in the complimentary sorbet served between courses and know that you've experienced the best of France's culinary tradition.
This is the elegant interior of Begues at the Royal
Sonesta Hotel.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Fresh Lump Crabmeat and Shrimp tossed in Creole Remoulade with Avocado
Seared Duck Foie Gras with Fig and Ginger Compote and grilled Flat Breads
Favorite Entrees:
Filet of Tilapia, Pan fried and accompanied by Sautéed Julienne
Vegetables, Lump Crabmeat, Corn Blinis and Lemon Butter Sauce
Sautéed Breast of Duck with Vegetable Napoleon and Sun dried Tomato
Sauce
Favorite Dessert:
Bread Pudding
.
"Sautéed Breast of Duck with Vegetable Napoleon and Sun dried Tomato Sauce" is an example of the outstanding food served at Begues at the Royal Sonesta Hotel.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Begues
Royal Sonesta Hotel
300 Bourbon Street
New Orleans,LA
(504) 553 2278
Michaul's on St. Charles
Owner/Hostess, Michelle, welcomes you to Michaul's
at St. Charles.
Photo by Michael Reiss
If you want an authentic Cajun experience; food, ambiance, music, dancing and hospitality this is it! The Owner/Hostess, Michelle, who started the restaurant in 1986, will welcome you and orient you to an unforgettable evening. For starters, there are Cajun dance lessons in between sets of a lively Cajun band. The food is authentic and irresistible. The vibes are ever so welcoming and if you ever think about New Orleans Mardi Gras, this is party central! Don't miss this uniquely Cajun experience while in the "big easy".
Fun and Cajun dancing is all part of the evening at Michaul's at St. Charles.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
BBQ Shrimp, Fresh Gulf Shrimp simmered in our famous southern style BBQ
sauce with a hint of Rosemary served with French Bread
Seafood Gumbo
Favorite Entrees:
Bronzed Catfish Alcide, catfish dusted with Cajun spices and topped with
crawfish etouffee
Salmon Pecan, fresh salmon in seasoned egg batter and totally encrusted
with roasted pecans fried to perfection and laced with lemon and butter
sauce
Favorite Dessert:
Praline Cheesecake
.
Irresistible down-home cooking is what you can expect at Michaul's at St. Charles.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Michaul's at St. Charles
840 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans,LA
(504) 522 5517
Court of Two Sisters
Photo by Michael Reiss
This is the quintessential place to go for a New Orleans jazz brunch any day of the week. With more than 80 buffet items to choose from, there is something for everyone from traditional brunch fare to Cajun and Creole specialties. The jazz band is smooth and moves often between the inside rooms and the famed courtyard seating to make for a lively, entertaining dining experience.
The smooth jazz band makes dinning at delight at the
Court of Two Sisters.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Crawfish pasta salad
Sea slaw
Favorite Entrees:
Made to order omelets
Duck a l'orange
Favorite Dessert:
Bananas Foster
.
80 buffet items make the Court of Two
Sisters a favorite dinning spot.
Photo by Michael Reiss
.
Court of Two Sisters
613 Royal St.
New Orleans,LA
(504) 522 7261
The Grill Room at the Windsor Court
The understated elegance of the room itself is a counterpoint to the sophisticated, complex, Three- Star-Michelin quality of the cuisine. The new chef, Jonathan Wright, promises to maintain the restaurant's status while introducing some new innovative dishes to the menu. An added pleasure is the sommelier, Heather Schneider, whose knowledge of and enthusiasm for wine will no doubt enhance your wine selection. Overall, the Grill Room at the Windsor Court Hotel is an experience of the highest caliber.
Favorite Appetizers:
Tian of Crab with Lemon Vinaigrette, Scallop Seviche with Oyster Beignets
and Sevruga Caviar
Terrine of Lobster and Marinated Roma Tomatoes En Presse, Red pepper Jelly
and Lobster Cream with Caviar
Favorite Entrees:
Roasted Atlantic grouper with a Tepanade crust, Crawfish and Clam Chowder,
Confit Potatoes and Fennel, Roasted Garlic
Caramelized Artic Sea Bass with Seared Scallops, Artichokes Barigoule
and Porcini Gnocchi, Chanterelles and Rosemary Scented Poultry Jus
Favorite Dessert:
Bananas Windsor
Pecan Crusted Bananas with Cinnamon Ice Cream and Fosters Sauce
.
This is the elegant dining room at the Grill Room at the Windsor Court Hotel.
Grill Room at the Windsor Court Hotel
300 Gravier St.
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 522-1992
GW FINS
Chef Partner, Tenney Flynn and Managing Partner Gary Wallerman take the New Orleans obsession for seafood to new heights by ensuring that their seasonal offerings are flown in from around the globe daily. That commitment to freshness and unique variety does not go unnoticed at this popular establishment. The progressive wine list, offered on the reverse side of the menu, provides much appreciated assistance to both the novice and experienced wine lover who can easily discern from the list which wines match their taste preferences, with "light and fruity" at the top of the list to "robust and full bodied" near the bottom of the list.
Favorite Appetizers:
Crispy Fried Split Maine Lobster Tail with remoulade cole slaw
Sizzling Smoked Oysters
Favorite Entrees:
Bouillabaisse- Lobster, clams, oysters, mussels, fresh shrimp, white
fish in a rich saffron lobster broth
Whole Roasted Striped Bass with curried basmant, grilled banana
Favorite Dessert:
Apple Pie with cheese straw top crust and vanilla ice cream for two
GW Fins serves a superb "Bouillabaisse" with lobster, clams, oysters, mussels, fresh shrimp, white fish in a rich saffron lobster broth.
GW FINS
808 Bienville St.
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 581-3467
Commander's Palace, New Orleans
If you want a quintessential New Orleans experience, try Commander's Palace for Sunday Brunch. As soon as you walk in the door of the turquoise mansion, the celebration begins! Each of the seven dining rooms is festooned with balloons and you are escorted to your table to the strains of a smooth jazz combo. You observe people clinking champagne glasses and the party continues. You are presented an enormous menu with every Creole item possible, all prepared in an original adventuresome tradition started by the Brennan family and continued by the current chef, Tory McPhail. Before you know it, you are talking and or toasting to the people at the next table. The vibes are pure new Orleanean hospitality, and the good times are rollin'.
This dish, "Shrimp and Tasso with Five Pepper Jelly,"
is one of the creative and exciting items served at Commander's Palace.
Favorite Appetizers:
Commander's Las Vegas Salad
Tender baby spinach tossed with shaved red onion, candied pecans, crumbled
point reyes blue cheese and sugar cane vinaigrette
Shrimp Remoulade "Moderne"
Boiled Gulf shrimp and crisp greens layered with spicy mousse and Creole
remouolade sauce- finished with salted lemon zest
Favorite Entrees:
Louisiana crawfish Maque Choux
Local crawfish tails smothered down with toasted garlic, sweet corn, onions,
mixed peppered and a Creole crawfish bisque- served over basil infused
popcorn rice
Shrimp and Tasso with Five Pepper Jelly
Truffled Jumbo Lump Crab and Eggs
Fluffy scrambled eggs, triple cream brie, local crabmeat and artisan bread
- with a Champagne- Meyer lemon butter and crawfish boudin
Favorite Dessert:
Bread Pudding Soufflé
Commander's Palace
1403 Washington Ave.
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
(504) 899-8221
Upperline, New Orleans
Photo by Michael Reiss
Enter this restaurant-cum-art gallery and you will be greeted with the warmth that only Owner, Joann Clevenger, can impart. She exudes genuine hospitality and Southern charm and her food explodes with the true Creole flair that can only come from Chef Ken's constant experimentation with the dishes that have made this restaurant so popular among tourists and beloved among locals. It is difficult to try the specials because everyone has their favorites here. A sure bet is to try the "Taste of New Orleans," a sampling of seven favorites that you want to experience again and again. Upperline is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2003 and you can be sure the celebration will be worth a trip!
The warm and enthusiastic Owner of Upperline, Joann Clevenger,
will make your visit memorable.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Duck and Andouille Etouffee with Corn Cakes and Pepper Jelly
The original Fried Green Tomato with Shrimp Remoulade
Favorite Entrees:
Roasted Duck with Ginger Peach Sauce
Seared Salmon, Louisiana Oysters
Favorite Dessert:
Honey Pecan Bread Pudding, Toffee Sauce
Upperline
1413 Upperline St.
New Orleans, LA 70115
(504) 891-9822
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
What To Do
There is always plenty to do in New Orleans, even if you aren't
there for a specific festival. One of the best times to be in the city
is during the month of December. No other city celebrates Christmas like
New Orleans. Besides discounted holiday "Papa Noel " hotel rates,
there are daily food demonstrations and tastings from the top local chefs,
nightly concerts in the cathedral, impromptu encounters with historical
figures, street performers and artists, candlelight tours of historical
homes and candlelight caroling. The annual holiday homes tour in the Garden
District and the multicourse reveillon dinners offered by many of the
top restaurants are "must do's" on your holiday list. For a
complete listing of events for this and other festivals in the city, contact
the New Orleans Tourism marketing Corporation at: www.info@notmc.com
Great River Road Plantation Parade
Within a hour of New Orleans you can experience the bygone era of the Plantations. Each of the six plantation homes on this tour tells its own unique story through engrossing tours led by knowledgeable guides in period costume.
Lara: A Creole Plantation, named "Best History
Tour in the US." by Lonely Planet Travel, presents the story , in
depth, of slavery in Creole Louisiana.
Oak Alley Plantation, built in 1839 is renowned for its alley of twenty-eight
evenly spaced giant live oaks trees.
Houmas House Plantation
Photo by Michael Reiss
Houmas House Plantation, the "Crown Jewel of Louisiana's River Road" reflects its history as once the largest sugar plantation in America and its owners among the wealthiest in the south. Tour the house, stroll through 12 acres of breathtaking gardens, and plan to stay for dinner at its newly opened, gourmet restaurant called Latil's Landing. Executive Chef, Jeremy Langlois serves the freshest and finest of contemporary Louisiana cuisine in an authentic plantation environment where the service, wine selection and overall ambiance promises a memorable and magical evening.
The Houmas House Plantation is the "Crown Jewel of Louisiana's
River Road."
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Houmas House Plantation and Gardens
40136 Highway 942
Darrow,LA 70725
(504)891-9494
See this site for directions: http://www.houmashouse.com/
The New Orleans Cooking Experience
Photo by Michael Reiss
The New Orleans Cooking Experience offers cooking
vacations, half-day, private and special event classes in a charming 1790's
Creole Plantation located right in the heart of New Orleans. The highly
personalized, small classes focus on authentic Creole cooking. Renowned
Chef, Frank Brigtsen, of Brigsten's Restaurant created the
course curriculum and teaches many of the classes himself.
The interactive nature of the classes makes learning easy and fun while
the multi-course meal including wines makes for cementing newly made cooking
acquaintances into fast friends. Judy Jurish, the founder and native New
Orleanian, believes that visitors and residents alike have a growing appetite
for authentic experiences to learn about the culture and history of the
area, with the premier example being its heralded cuisine.
The New Orleans Cooking Experience offers an outstanding opportunity
to cook and eat up the culture!
Chef Frank Brigtsen, of Brigsten's Restaurant leads
a class at The New Orleans Cooking Experience.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The New Orleans Cooking Experience
The House on Bayou Road
2275 Bayou Road
New Orleans,LA
(504) 945 0992