Quintessential New Orleans Jazz Brunch

With Michael Reiss

The Veranda’s lively elegant dinning room features a genuine preservation jazz band.

Where do you go to find a fun-loving weekend event in New Orleans? One tradition that can’t be missed is "Jazz Brunch" on Sunday. Did I say tradition? It’s an institution, and once you’ve experienced it, you’ll understand why.

One of the most renowned and popular of the brunches takes place at The Veranda Restaurant at the Inter-Continental Hotel at 444 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, from 11:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. on Sundays. An elaborate and vast array of Continental and Cajun creations, quality French sparkling wine, a genuine preservation jazz band, and a gracious indoor garden setting make this an unbeatable venue at $31.95.

Of course, brunch is about choice and quantity. Where to begin ? Start with the soup du jour (French onion, when we visited) and then move on to the superb array of seafood. From crab’s legs to shrimp to smoked fish, including a stunning presentation of smoked salmon with all the accompaniments, to seared ahi tuna–the selection was impressive and of the highest quality.

The variety of salads and cold items vied for attention with the hot selections–ranging from breakfast to luncheon items–all prepared with finesse and attention to presentation.

Don’t overlook the omelet bar, and on your way to the bananas foster, sample true Belgium waffles–light, crisp and melt-in-your-mouth delicious! Save room for the spectacular display of cheeses and desserts, as you sip your last bubbly and contemplate coffee or tea.

Oh yes, Sunday is the end of the weekend, but what a way to go!

Dirk DeJong, Manager, will make your visit to The Veranda a delightful one.

By the way, if you really want to treat yourself to a special weekend, consider staying at the Inter-Continental. One of the top rated hotels in the city, this quiet unassuming gem has just completed a head to toe renovation that keeps it competitive with the city’s finest. The location–at 444 St. Charles Ave.–is just minutes from the French Quarter. Subdued and ever-so refined, the Inter-Continental lies right on the St Charles Trolley Line for easy access to public transportation. The Veranda at the Hotel Inter-Continental is just the place for retreat, after some serious touring or frolicking in the "Quarter." The Inter-Continental also can serve as a fine base as a business hotel, as it has high-speed Internet access and excellent conference facilities.

Yet, make no mistake, this hotel, which lies right on the parade route becomes "Mardi Gras Central" once a year, when the King and Queen of Rex offer their official toast on a specially constructed scaffold on the property.

Because every weekend feels like Mardi Gras to the tourists of New Orleans, treat yourself to the understated luxury of this fine establishment. Rates vary. Check with Reservations at: (504) 525-5566 for current prices.

The Veranda’s sumptuous buffet is vast and varied.

444 St. Charles Ave.,

New Orleans, LA 70130-3171

-Diane Riche, Director of Sales and Marketing

-Michael Cooper, Food and Beverage Manager

-Dirk DeJong, Manager of Restaurants

-Willy Coln, Executive Chef