If there is anything New Orleans is known for, it’s the food and music you’ll experience throughout the city. And one of the best ways to experience all that New Orleans has to offer is to stay in the French Quarter, Marigny, and Bywater neighborhoods where the best of the city is just a leisurely stroll away!
Frenchmen Street
It’s a little-known secret that one street in New Orleans can provide you with a glimpse of the best of the city, and it may surprise visitors that it’s not Bourbon Street. Frenchmen Street in Marigny has gained popularity with tourists over time; however, its charm is what keeps locals coming back night after night.
Cafe Negril* offers lively reggae music and dancing to accompany delicious tacos from their taqueria. Apple Barrel Bar* has live jazz or blues music every night, and upstairs you’ll find an intimate Italian restaurant called Adolfo’s* that is perfect for date night. Looking for something more casual? Head to Dat Dog* where you can eat specialty hot dogs and sit on the balcony while listening to the bands that gather and play outside.
Of course, New Orleans also is known for her many talented artists, and Frenchmen Street doesn’t disappoint when it comes to providing visitors with local art to purchase and explore. At the Palace Market,* guests can purchase artwork including paintings, jewelry, photographs, and more as well as observe live art shows.
Music
Nothing captures the New Orleans experience like listening to the live music that brings the city alive, and the Marigny neighborhood offers a variety of live music experiences.
Kermit Ruffins, a beloved New Orleans jazz musician, plays weekly at Vaughan’s Lounge for locals and visitors to experience music inspired by Louis Armstrong and other New Orleans’ greats.
Want to experience the historical side of music in the Big Easy? The Jazz Museum offers a unique experience to learn about the history of jazz music and its beginnings in New Orleans while watching live performances. With its location being where the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street meet, guests will be fully-immersed in New Orleans culture for their entire visit – and don’t forget that the Lanaux Mansion is just steps away from it all on Esplanade Avenue.
Visitors looking to enjoy local music while also enjoying a late-night meal can head to Buffa’s where the food may be the main event, but the live music rounds out the experience.
Bakeries and Cafes
While New Orleans may be known for its savory flavors, it is a well-kept secret that it is also home to delicious sweet treats and bakeries. Enjoy breakfast or a light lunch at Bywater Bakery where local musicians will occasionally come play.
Thanks to the French history of New Orleans, French pastries are a local favorite and can be enjoyed at Croissant D’Or Patisserie* or Petite Clouet Cafe. More sweet treats can be found at Who Dat Coffee Cafe* and Loretta’s Authentic Pralines.*
New to the Area
Since New Orleans is known for its cuisine, you’ll never want for options when it comes to your next meal. While there are many long-time favorites in the French Quarter and Marigny areas, new dining options open each year, and they are not to be missed.
Those that are quickly becoming local favorites include Bisutoro on Magazine, Le Chat Noir, Margot’s, Peach Cobbler Factory, Dian Xin 2, Ayu Bakehouse*, and Breakaway’s R&R. Each of these offers a different cuisine type as well as varied dining experiences sure to please you on your next visit.
Experience all of this and more when you stay at the Lanaux Mansion. We can’t wait to host you soon. Please feel free to reach out for further recommendations – it’s our pleasure!
*Walking distance to the Lanaux Mansion
