Now we’re on the third week of our September Series for our favorite folks: the visitors who come to see if New Orleans is everything “they” say it is. I’ll bet that, within a couple of hours, we’ll win you over with our energy, hospitality, sass and big, wide welcoming smiles. CLICK HERE to review our first blog. THEN CLICK HERE to review our second one.

4. Whiskey Sauce Adds a Kick

Before we tackle a favorite topic – namely, our delicious food – I’d just like to explain where you’ll find us. “The Big Easy” (our nick name) is located at the mouth of the Mississippi. It’s bordered by Lake Pontchartrain to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the east. By the way, in case you didn’t know this, we’re world-famous as the birthplace of jazz.

This map let’s you check out our neighbors:

(R) What on earth is Bread Pudding Soufflé with Whisky Sauce? Believe me, once you’ve had this delicious dessert at Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 504-899-8221) you’ll never forget it. Or, as the chef says, “If it ain’t broke, fix it anyway.” So he added a touch of meringue to the restaurant’s original bread pudding. Result? It became the most sought-after item since the restaurant began in 1893 or 128 years ago. Yikes!

(S) When do I order this fantastic dessert? You order it the minute you sit down at your table – even before you look at the menu. Remember: it must be ordered ahead of time and, even if you feel a bit foolish doing this, as I did – JUST DO IT. It will be one of the smartest things you’ve ever done.

(T) What’s the deal with Commander’s turtle soup? Think of it as a bookend: start with a delicious soup and finish with a fabulous dessert. The secret is the “au Sherry” as part of the soup description. It’s a dark, rich, thick stew-type dish that has become legendary.

(U) What are the entrees like? I just checked out the restaurant’s menu and it looks great: Crispy Duck Confit, Creole Gumbo, Pecan Crusted Fish and many more delicious dishes BUT for the life of me I can’t remember what we ordered because I was so taken with the soup and the dessert – never happened to me before – or since.

(V) Should I try to eat differently in NoLA? Yes, yes, absolutely! Go out on a limb and try brand new dishes that you’ve never had in your life. You may be missing the“taste of a lifetime.” Ergo: warm bread pudding covered in a spiked and sweet Whiskey Sauce!

“So what’s in here?” Exploring begins at a young age.

5. America’s First Cocktail

TODAY What is the most ordered cocktail in the world?  Based on data from 115 countries, the Margarita claimed the crown as the most popular cocktail internationally. It was the most searched-for cocktail in 30 countries, including the US and the UK, averaging 546,280 searches worldwide per month.

IN 1850 the Sazerac Coffee House was founded in New Orleans. It soon became known as the home of “America’s First Cocktail.” A Creole apothecary (pharmacist or druggist) named Antoine Peychaud invented the Sazerac in his shop at 437 Royal Street in 1838.

IN 1938 or 100 years later, the Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel at 130 Roosevelt Way (three blocks from Bourbon Street) began serving this famous drink.

IN 2008 the state of Louisiana passed legislation that made the Sazerac Cocktail the official cocktail of New Orleans. I can’t give an opinion about this drink – alas, I have never had a Sazerac – I’ll put it on my bucket list!

A drink with friends as the sun goes down

TODAY If you’re interested in learning more about this famous drink please visit The Sazerac House – a museum located at 101 Magazine Street that is open from 11 am to 6 pm. You can book a free tour by calling (504) 910-0100.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? The French Quarter Festival takes place this fall from September 30th to October 2nd. This celebration highlights the food, music and culture of this beloved neighborhood. Since “The Quarter” is only a 15-minute stroll from Rathbone Mansions it’s the perfect place for you and yours to stay while you’re visiting New Orleans. 

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any changes to the info provided in this blog. Overall, we make a great effort to be up-to-the-minute. 

Shaun Nelson-Henrick