Quick and dirty NOLA

Denver’s Day of Rock was nice but this post is full of NOLA updates for my friend who is about to make a trip.

One of the best things I put in my mouth the entire time we were in New Orleans is the Shrimp and Grits from the Desire Oyster Bar. PHENOMENAL.

Beignets are a must; Cafe du Monde or Cafe Beignet, makes no difference.

Cochon is the other place you need to visit – not far from the convention center and while the food is upscale, the prices aren’t. One of the best drinks I had was there (the Swinekiller) and their drink menu was nearly as incredible as the food.

Before you leave, hit up the Central Grocery for an original muffaletta. Plan on splitting it because they’re massive.

Crescent City Brewhouse has two floors and an excellent courtyard. The beer’s a little pricey but you’ll be glad you ordered a Red and Black half and half. SO GOOD. I ordered the duck and it was EXCELLENT.

Visit a Hemingway haunt at the Carousel bar inside the Hotel Monteleone. The Ramos Gin fizz is fantastic.

For music and drinks, we spent a lot of time at Maison on Frenchmen Street. Their fruit punch was on special and FANTASTIC, as were the bands. Make sure to catch dinner at the Praline Connection just up the street; it was one of our favorites.

Bourbon House has great food and impeccable service.

You’ll need strong drinks to tackle Bourbon Street and luckily they are available everywhere. I like loud music but Rue Bourbon is MOTHERFCKINGLOUD.

If you need a lunch break during your conference, hit up Mulate’s just across the street. Best sweet tea in town (among other things).

Take the St. Charles streetcar out to Tulane and see what a real university looks like.

The Haunted History tour was interesting. The Voodoo Museum is wicked cheap and takes all of about 10 minutes to get through.

It takes a bit of legwork to get to, but the Metairie Cemetery is worth a visit. Make sure you take something to drink.