The Elsewhere Guide
New Orleans, USA
Jazz, Creole cuisine, and a city that never really sleeps
New Orleans is a city that dances to its own rhythm, where jazz echoes through the streets and the scent of Creole cuisine fills the air. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, storied neighborhoods, and unparalleled hospitality. From the historic French Quarter to the elegant Garden District, this is a week of indulgence in the very best of the Big Easy.
Spring is the best time to visit New Orleans, when the city is alive with festivals and the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for strolling through its historic streets.
Where to Stay
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
French Quarter
Housed in a historic Beaux Arts building, this hotel exudes Southern charm with its grand architecture and lush courtyard gardens.
Why we love it: Its impeccable service and the exclusive Club Lounge offering panoramic views of the city.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Central Business District
A legendary hotel famous for its opulent interiors and the iconic Sazerac Bar, a nod to the city’s cocktail heritage.
Why we love it: The stunning rooftop pool and spa that provide a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Maison de la Luz
Warehouse District
An exclusive guest house offering a refined, residential feel with curated art collections and bespoke furnishings.
Why we love it: Its intimate, personalized service and the private guest-only lounge for a serene escape.
Seven Days in New Orleans
Jazz and Jubilation
Breakfast at Brennan's, famed for its Bananas Foster and elegant courtyard dining.
Brennan's
💡 Request a table in the courtyard for a more serene start.
Private tour of the French Quarter, exploring its rich history and hidden gems.
French Quarter
💡 Ask your guide to show you the lesser-known courtyards.
Lunch at Commander's Palace, a New Orleans institution known for its haute Creole cuisine.
Commander's Palace
💡 Reserve a table in the Garden Room for a touch of Southern elegance.
Spa afternoon at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, indulging in a signature Voodoo Ritual.
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
💡 Arrive early to enjoy the relaxation lounge and steam room.
Dinner at Arnaud's, followed by a nightcap at the French 75 Bar.
Arnaud's
💡 Try the Oysters Arnaud for an authentic taste of New Orleans.
Kick off your week with a blend of classic New Orleans flavors and soulful sounds.
Garden District Grandeur
Breakfast at Willa Jean, where Southern comfort meets contemporary flair.
Willa Jean
💡 The biscuits with sausage gravy are a must-try.
Private guided tour of the Garden District, with its grand mansions and oak-lined streets.
Garden District
💡 Look out for the famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
Lunch at Coquette, offering a modern take on Southern cuisine.
Coquette
💡 Pair your meal with a selection from their curated wine list.
Art exploration at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
💡 Check the schedule for special exhibitions and events.
Dinner at Gautreau's, a hidden gem offering French-inspired dishes.
Gautreau's
💡 Ask for a table near the window for a more intimate setting.
Today is about elegance and the timeless charm of New Orleans' most picturesque district.
Culinary Revelations
Breakfast at The Ruby Slipper Cafe, famed for their decadent Eggs Benedict.
The Ruby Slipper Cafe
💡 Try the seasonal specialties for a unique twist.
Cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking, mastering the art of Creole and Cajun dishes.
New Orleans School of Cooking
💡 Be sure to take home their famous seasoning blends.
Lunch at Herbsaint, where James Beard Award-winning dishes await.
Herbsaint
💡 The gumbo is a local favorite that shouldn't be missed.
Private cocktail history tour, discovering the stories behind iconic New Orleans drinks.
Various Locations
💡 Visit the Carousel Bar for a unique spinning bar experience.
Dinner at August, a culinary masterpiece by Chef John Besh.
Restaurant August
💡 Opt for the tasting menu to fully experience the chef's creativity.
Today is a celebration of New Orleans' rich culinary heritage and modern innovations.
Crescent City Culture
Breakfast at Café du Monde, indulging in beignets and café au lait.
Café du Monde
💡 Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Visit to the National WWII Museum, one of the most comprehensive in the country.
National WWII Museum
💡 Don't miss the immersive 4D experience, 'Beyond All Boundaries'.
Lunch at Peche Seafood Grill, known for its wood-fired seafood dishes.
Peche Seafood Grill
💡 Order the whole grilled fish for a family-style experience.
Stroll through the Warehouse District, visiting contemporary art galleries.
Warehouse District
💡 Stop by the Contemporary Arts Center for the latest exhibitions.
Dinner at Galatoire's, an institution of Creole cuisine since 1905.
Galatoire's
💡 Request a table in the main dining room for an authentic experience.
Dive deep into the cultural tapestry that makes New Orleans truly unique.
Timeless Traditions
Breakfast at Elizabeth's, where praline bacon is a must.
Elizabeth's
💡 Arrive early to secure a table on weekends.
Visit to the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 with a private guide.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
💡 Learn about the unique above-ground burial traditions.
Lunch at Bayona, Susan Spicer's renowned restaurant blending global flavors with local ingredients.
Bayona
💡 The goat cheese crouton is a beloved starter.
Shopping in the French Quarter, visiting high-end boutiques and antique shops.
French Quarter
💡 Explore Royal Street for the best antique finds.
Dinner at Emeril's, where the essence of New Orleans cuisine is celebrated.
Emeril's
💡 Order the signature BBQ shrimp for a taste of local flair.
A day steeped in tradition, offering glimpses into the past that shape the present.
The Rhythms of the River
Breakfast at Atchafalaya, known for its inventive brunch offerings.
Atchafalaya
💡 The build-your-own Bloody Mary bar is a highlight.
Private riverboat cruise on the Mississippi, enjoying the sights and sounds of the river.
Mississippi River
💡 Bring a camera for stunning views of the city skyline.
Lunch at Shaya, where modern Israeli cuisine meets Southern hospitality.
Shaya
💡 The hummus with lamb ragu is a standout dish.
Explore the Audubon Park and Zoo, a lush oasis in the city.
Audubon Park and Zoo
💡 Visit the butterfly garden for a serene experience.
Dinner at Antoine's, one of the oldest family-run restaurants in the country.
Antoine's
💡 The Oysters Rockefeller are a must-try, invented here in 1899.
Experience the pulse of the river that has shaped New Orleans for centuries.
Farewell to the Big Easy
Breakfast at Café Amelie, with its enchanting courtyard setting.
Café Amelie
💡 The shrimp and grits are a flavorful start to the day.
Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art, exploring its impressive collection.
New Orleans Museum of Art
💡 Check out the sculpture garden for an outdoor art experience.
Lunch at Toups' Meatery, where Cajun comfort food reigns supreme.
Toups' Meatery
💡 The cracklins are a perfect starter to share.
Shopping spree at Canal Place, featuring luxury brands and designer boutiques.
Canal Place
💡 Look for local designers for a unique souvenir.
Farewell dinner at The Grill Room at Windsor Court, an elegant dining experience.
The Grill Room at Windsor Court
💡 End your meal with a classic Sazerac cocktail.
A final day to soak in the elegance and charm of New Orleans before departing.
The Table
Restaurants that define the destination.
Brennan's
For its legendary Bananas Foster and quintessential New Orleans brunch experience.
Commander's Palace
A dining institution known for its innovative Creole cuisine and impeccable service.
Arnaud's
For its classic Creole fare and historic dining rooms.
Herbsaint
James Beard Award-winning dishes in a relaxed, elegant setting.
Galatoire's
A storied restaurant where tradition and taste converge.
August
Chef John Besh's culinary masterpiece that showcases local ingredients with French techniques.
Antoine's
Home of the original Oysters Rockefeller and a piece of New Orleans history.
Emeril's
The flagship restaurant of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, offering quintessential New Orleans flavors.
Make It Extraordinary
Experiences beyond the obvious.
French Quarter Private Tour
Explore the historic heart of New Orleans with a private guide, uncovering its rich history and hidden gems.
Cooking Class at New Orleans School of Cooking
Learn the secrets of Creole and Cajun cuisine from expert chefs in a hands-on class.
Mississippi Riverboat Cruise
Experience the charm of the Mississippi River on a private cruise, complete with stunning views of the city.
Cocktail History Tour
Discover the stories behind New Orleans' iconic cocktails on a guided tour through historic bars.
Garden District Guided Tour
A private exploration of the Garden District's grand mansions and lush greenery.
New Orleans is not just a city; it's an experience that lingers long after you've left. Its music, flavors, and spirit invite you back, time and again, to uncover its many layers of charm and character. Until next time, laissez les bon temps rouler!
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