Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard is nestled in New Orleans’ Central City neighborhood, near the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line. In the 1980s, the corridor was named for Mrs. Oretha Castle Haley, a New Orleans civil rights pioneer who dedicated her work and personal life to social justice. Since the late 1990s and especially post-Katrina, Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard has become a thriving cultural district. Now, the neighborhood is filled with locally-owned and culturally-oriented businesses, community art murals, restored buildings, and an abundance of delicious food. Below find our picks of must see places in the neighborhood.

1
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

Located in the heart of the popular boulevard, Ashe is the place to see performance art, exhibitions, and community-driven art highlighting the contributions of the African-American community in New Orleans.

2
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

Dine on authentic soul food for a great cause. This restaurant is dedicated to helping train at-risk young adults that are interested in working in the hospitality industry. It is a popular spot for a great, casual meal.

3
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

This nonprofit museum celebrates food, drink and related culture of the South. Special exhibits and demonstrations further honor many of the south’s favorite dishes and unique cocktails.

4
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

Travel to Columbia at this bright, Latin American eatery. From eclectic drinks to photo-worthy food, you won’t be disappointed. Located just two blocks from Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard.

5
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

Located in Central City, Heard Dat Kitchen is a hidden gem. The neighborhood restaurant serves classic New Orleans comfort food in a creative presentation. For example, the “Superdome” is blackened fish and onion rings shaped as the iconic Superdome.

6
Rebecca Todd, NOTMC

During the fall & spring, be sure to catch a local food & drink event or a concert series at this urban farm located two blocks from Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard. It is also available as a private event space.

7
Justen Williams, NOTMC

Explore Dr. Dwight McKenna’s personal collection of African American Art at this appointment-only museum. The impressive collection sits just around the corner from Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard. The space can also be rented for private parties.

8
Paul Broussard, NOTMC

This restaurant sits in a swanky setting and serves some of the best smoked meats in the city. Their chicken wings with white bbq sauce was the award-winning dish at Hogs for the Cause and is just one of their popular dishes.