NOLA for Two: A whirlwind romance with the Big Easy
New Orleans. The Big Easy. Just the name conjures images of vibrant parades, overflowing balconies strung with beads, and the infectious rhythm of jazz. Sure, Mardi Gras is legendary, but for my wife and me, New Orleans offered a love story far more intimate - a whirlwind three-day adventure that stole our hearts.
Our adventure began at the charming Hotel Mazarin, where a frosty welcome cocktail at the connected 21st Amendment bar quenched our thirst and introduced us to a local brew.
Fueled by the city's spirit, we embarked on a culinary odyssey. Emeril's NOLA lived up to the hype, with barbeque shrimp that danced on the tongue and catfish so perfectly prepared it deserved a standing ovation.
Bourbon Street, the city's pulsing artery, beckoned with its neon glow. We dodged street performers and revelers, catching a glimpse of Spirits on Bourbon, a familiar haunt from Bar Rescue. But as the energy intensified, we retreated to the hotel's tranquil courtyard, savoring the city's vibrant soundtrack from a safe distance.
Daylight brought exploration. A stroll down Royal Street, lined with art galleries and antique shops, led us to Jackson Square, where the mighty Mississippi River shimmered in the sun. Jax Brewery, another fortuitous find, offered a refreshing pitstop with its Red Beans and Rice brew – a taste of the city in a glass.
We ventured beyond the French Quarter, taking the trolley to the serene Garden District. Towering mansions, some rumored to shelter celebrities like Julia Roberts, whispered tales of a bygone era. Exhausted but exhilarated, we refueled with classic po'boys from ACME and decadent beignets from Cafe du Monde – the perfect New Orleans finale (or so we thought!).
Day three was a trip back in time. A long, scenic bus ride through the Louisiana countryside culminated at Oak Alley Plantation. The majestic oak trees, their branches reaching out like welcoming arms, formed a breathtaking avenue leading to the grand antebellum mansion. The on-site bar, catering to hotel guests (yes, you can actually stay here!), offered a chance to sample my first – and surprisingly smooth – apple-flavored moonshine.
Frenchman Street, the heart of New Orleans' vibrant jazz scene, was a little too early to awaken, but a serendipitous detour led us to Cafe Amelie. Here, a unique jambalaya with shrimp, prosciutto, and penne pasta ignited our taste buds once more.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we ended our adventure perfectly – with a captivating performance at Preservation Hall. The soulful melodies of the jazz band filled the air, a fitting farewell to a city that had woven its magic around us. New Orleans wasn't just a place we visited; it was a love story waiting to be discovered, and we fell head over heels for its infectious charm.
