Dining Experiences
A well-known French Quarter favorite, Brennan’s is a must on any empty nester’s itinerary. Whether you’re interested in their two-course breakfast specials or their critically-acclaimed dinner menu, you’re sure to find something that exceeds expectations.
Arguably the best fried chicken in New Orleans, Willie Mae’s is a long-standing eatery in the historic Treme neighborhood. For over 30 years their menu has offered simple yet savory Southern favorites like fried chicken, butter beans, macaroni, okra and more. Willie Mae’s has been the restaurant of choice for a host of A-list celebrities and VIP guests from actors to singers and even former presidents. Make your way there early to beat the rush.
Since 1932, this Mid City neighborhood restaurant has served old school Creole Italian dishes. Enjoy New Orleans classics like po-boys and oysters, or Italian specialties like veal and chicken parmesan spaghetti. They are open daily for lunch and dinner.
The bold, blue building will draw your attention, but it’s the delicious New Orleanian cuisine that will keep you there. Named one of the 40 Most Important Restaurants of the Past 40 Years, Commander’s Palace has solidified its place in the culinary hall of fame. Their entire menu is filled with Creole and Cajun favorites that can’t be found anywhere else. Stop in for their signature Jazz Brunch and enjoy your favorite midday meal with a show.
The oldest restaurant in the United States sits in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Order their signature dish, oysters Rockefeller, or eggs Sardou, which they also invented. The walls of the legendary establishment are lined with photos of celebrities and political figures that have dined there over the years. For some Mardi Gras history, explore their many side rooms that are adorned with various krewe's memorabilia and royalty.
Festivals + Special Events
On just about any given weekend, you can expect a festival of some sort in New Orleans. We celebrate food, music, neighborhoods, streets, literature and just about anything else you can think of with a fest. These following festivals are perfect for setting up a chair, catching a breeze and enjoying the festivities that surround you.
While it’s arguably one of the most popular festivals in New Orleans’ jam-packed fest calendar, it’s beloved for a reason: there’s nothing else quite like it. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another festival that has hosted rock’n’roll legends such as The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and The Beach Boys alongside New Orleans’ greatest living blues, jazz, gospel and folk artists. While you can definitely expect crowds, find solace, seating and shade inside the Blues, Gospel and Jazz tents, and traditional Cajun dancing at the fais do do stage. Here you’ll also find some of the city’s best culinary offerings, making the lines 100% worth the wait.
