I could be a bit biased, but there is truly no other city more special, unique and bursting with culture, history (and good food!) than New Orleans. Over the years, I’ve seen so many changes (some good, some bad) transform this southern gem, and lately one of the most interesting changes to the landscape in NOLA is the revitalization of the downtown New Orleans area. Over the past few years, the downtown area has seen a resurgence in theaters, shopping and restaurants that’s only continuing to grow and grow. When the folks at 1201 Canal Condominiums invited me down to their condos in the heart of downtown to get a better look at the current state of the downtown scene I jumped at the chance. What I found was a pretty charming area bursting with neighborhood attractions any tourist or NOLA native would enjoy. Be sure to scroll through below to check out more of the gorgeous downtown condos, as well as my recommendations on everything that downtown New Orleans has to offer!
WHERE TO EAT
Willa Jean
This combo bakery/restaurant never disappoints. The breakfast menu, complete with several biscuit options, is perfect after a long night of living it up in the city and you can even get the most delicious cookies and milk for dessert. You also must, must, must try the frose (yep, that’s frozen rose) when you visit. If I could have one right now I would!
Domenica
Chef John Besh is sort of a legend here in New Orleans, and I don’t think I’ve ever been to a Besh restaurant and left disappointed. Chef Besh’s Domenica restaurant is nothing short of absolutely delicious and offers everything across its diverse Italian/Middle Eastern menu. My personal favorites happen to be the prosciutto pizza and roasted cauliflower with sea salt and feta, ummm delicious. The restaurant is also located in one of the most gorgeous hotels in the city – The Roosevelt.
Singha Tai Cafe
While New Orleans is primarily known for it’s creole and seafood dishes, there are still lots of other flavors in the city that are just as delicious. This little Thai cafe isn’t one that most tourists would jump at, but I think that’s one of the things that make it so great. It’s located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, and is convenient enough to drop in for a bit whether you work downtown and are looking for tasty lunch time options (like me) or whether you’re visiting the city and want to try something a little off the beaten path.
Catahoula Hotel & Bar
The rooftop bar at the Catahoula is just perfect. The colorful and tropical vibe is perfect for having a cocktail (or two!), and the drink menu is pretty impressive – offering a selection of cocktails that are just as tasty as they are unique. Don’t hesitate to check out the hotel bars Peruvian infused menu if you get hungry for a bite – yum!
THINGS TO DO
Theatres and Shows
As I mentioned above, the downtown New Orleans area has experienced a huge makeover recently and that includes the arts and entertainment scene. If you’re in the mood to check out a show or maybe a concert be sure to check out The Orpheum and The Saenger Theatre’s. Both venues are absolutely stunning and feature amazing performers on a regular basis. The Orpheum is your go to for smaller, intimate and more niche performers while The Saenger is better known for its bigger names plays and performances.
Shopping
If you’re anything like me, one of your favorite parts of visiting any new city is discovering the local shopping scene. For more mainstream shopping there’s The Shops at Canal Place if you’re looking to splurge, and The Riverwalk Outlet Collection for more affordable prices. If you’re interested in checking out a couple of the local boutiques, I recommend visiting both Hattie Sparks and Cella’s. Both have the cutest clothing and accessories, and Hattie Sparks takes it up a notch with home and gift offerings that you won’t see anywhere else.
Bars
Granted in my current state, I’m not much of a bar goer lately – but if you’re looking for a few places to check out I’d visit Victory Bar, The District, Tchoup Yard, Ace Hotel (rooftop bar with pool access in case you visit during the sweltering summer months!), and The Carousel Bar (a classic New Orleans bar that’s been in operation for over 65 years, and features the city’s only revolving bar).
WHERE TO STAY
Le Pavillon
This historic New Orleans hotel is exactly what my dreams are made of. It’s my absolute favorite hotel here in the city, and for plenty of good reasons. Everything from the gorgeous and stately columns at the entrance, to the beautiful chandeliers throughout, and charming furniture and decor
Ace Hotel
I previously mentioned this boutique hotel as a bar recommendation above, however it’s a pretty amazing hotel option as well. Boutique hotels are having a moment here in the city, and the Ace Hotel with its homey rooms that feel more like the interior of an eclectic modern home than a hotel is a great pick out of the bunch.
The Saint
If you’re looking for an over the top and glamorous hotel option, look no further than The Saint. Everything from the statement making light fixtures and columns, to marble bathrooms and larger than life decor is over the top and opulent. This is one option that’ll definitely make for a once in a lifetime hotel experience!
This post was sponsored by 1201 Canal Condominiums. All opinions are my own.
