Let’s Chow Down

YOU HAVEN’T LIVED UNTIL YOU’VE EATEN A PO’BOY

What’s the origin of the po’boy? Here’s a short history lesson. The streetcar workers in New Orleans went on strike in 1929 when the stock market crashed and the Great Depression began. Two brothers, named Bennie and Clovis Martin – former streetcar workers who became bakers – began feeding the strikers. As Bennie explains, “We fed those men free of charge until the strike ended. Whenever we saw one coming we would say, “Here comes another poor boy.”

A delicious po’boy sandwich that will fill you up in no time

Where can you get a great po’boy sandwich in New Orleans today?

Believe it or not, the first po’boy I ever ate was in western Canada. The sandwich was filled with hot, juicy roast beef and it was absolutely delicious. Is your mouth watering? Then head out to one of our favorite spots.

PARKWAY PO’BOYS at 538 Hagen Avenue is known for its fried shrimp po’boy (an overstuffed sandwich made with French bread) as well as its fried oyster, catfish, roast beef and alligator sausage po’boys. When you’re asked if you want your sandwich “dressed” – say “yes” and get the shredded lettuce and tomato with mayo added. They must be doing something right – they’ve been around since 1911.

Where can you pop in and get delicious coffee and a beignet fast?

CAFÉ DU MONDE at 800 Decatur Street in front of Jackson Square, has delicious chicory coffee (eat your heart out, Starbucks), is open 24 hours and never closes except for Christmas Day. Their hot beignets (state doughnut of Louisiana) are covered in powdered sugar that goes all over the place: your bod, the table, the floor and even your shoes. No big deal. Everyone is in the same boat.

Café du Monde – For heaven’s sake, don’t wear black

Where can you find the oldest of the old-line New Orleans restaurants?

ANTOINE’S RESTAURANT at 713 St. Louis Street began in 1840 and is known for its creation of the Oysters Rockefeller. This restaurant was one where playwright, Tennessee Williams, was seen fairly often. That said, he was also a regular at Arnaud’s, Brennan’s and Galatoire’s Restaurant so he didn’t play “the favorite” game. Antoine’s has 14 dining rooms and offers French-Creole cuisine, impeccable service and a unique atmosphere. CLICK HERE to read more.

Antoine’s fried soft shell crab

I love the fact that so many establishments in New Orleans stay around for years and years. In New York City, 80% of the restaurants close in the first five years.

Café Brulot Diabolique at Antoine’s – let’s face it: this looks wicked. I can’t wait to try it

WE KNOW YOU’RE A QUICK STUDY SO TAKE A LOOK

Now, let’s discuss some of the ”food” words you’ll come across in New Orleans. We pinched them from a long list in Lonely Planet that we cut way down. Visitors to this fair city want to get out and bop around – not sit and read lists. Here goes:

BOUDIN – A tasty Cajun sausage made with pork, pork liver, cooked rice and spices

CAJUN (Cuisine) – The rustic cuisine of the countryside

CREOLE (Cuisine) – The rich, refined cuisine of the city

ÉTOUFFÉE – A Cajun or Creole stew of shellfish or chicken served over rice

JAMBALAYA – Hearty, rice-based dish with any combination of fowl, shellfish or meat (but usually includes ham)

MUFFULETTA – A round sesame-crusted loaf spread with a salty olive salad and layered with cheeses and deli meats

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

New Orleans: More Than the French Quarter

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. It gets a lot of publicity, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only game in town. We’re going to take a quick look here at two museums you may find interesting. We say “quick” because we’re not going to bore you. Instead, we’ll give you highlights to spark your interest PLUS a link to their sites.

The imposing St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter of New Orleans

THE BACKSTREET CULTURAL MUSEUM

The idea for this museum started with an enterprising individual named Sylvester Francis who is quoted as saying, “I liked the culture of New Orleans so much that when I took a picture of someone I’d make sure they had a copy.” He focused on the Carnival celebrations, jazz funerals and second-line parades. Hold on. What’s a second-line? 

“Second line” is a tradition in brass band parades in New Orleans. The "first line" is the main section of the parade, or the members of the actual club with a parading permit as well as a brass band. Those who follow the band just to enjoy the music are called the "second line."

The jazz funeral celebrates life at the moment of death

In 1988 Francis began displaying his photographs in his two-car garage in the “back streets” of the historic Tremé neighborhood. Public interest grew and in 1999 the Backstreet Cultural Museum was incorporated as a nonprofit organization. Today it holds a spectacular collection and has filmed over 500 events. It comes out with a book every year titled, Keeping Jazz Funerals Alive. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm and is closed on Sunday. CLICK HERE for more information about Backstreet.

This album follows the script of a traditional New Orleans style funeral – starts slow and then moves to more upbeat and joyous tunes (you’ll find this CD on Amazon) 

THE OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART

This museum is located in the Warehouse Arts District of downtown New Orleans and holds a spectacular collection of Southern art. It was established in 1999 and welcomes 85,000 visitors annually. It presents a broad range of activities that include: exhibitions, lectures, film screenings and concerts – all of which are designed to broaden the knowledge and appreciation of the visual arts and culture of the American South.

A donation of more than 600 works from New Orleans resident, Roger Ogden has grown to more than 4,000 works of paintings, watercolors, drawings, prints, photographs and sculptures from collectors in 15 Southern states. This museum is open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm and Thursday nights to 8pm for Ogden After Hours. CLICK HERE for more information about this museum.

IF YOU DO NOTHING ELSE IN NEW ORLEANS – DO THIS

I’m talking about going on a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River. We elected to go late in the day when the sun was setting, have dinner onboard and return after dark. I wanted to go at this particular time but I had certain reservations so I said to Peter, my husband, “Now, I don’t want to hear any whining if the dinner isn’t up to scratch. This is a tourist attraction with a lot of people – all eating at the same time -- so that has to be taken into consideration.”

New Orleans: a paddlewheel riverboat on the Mississippi

I should have shelved the lecture. The entrée included “catfish” and my heart sank when I heard this. I had never eaten catfish in my life. Well, it was baked catfish with an almond crust that was so good I thought I’d died and gone to heaven. This was topped off with a bread pudding dessert that was also delicious. There were big smiles all around – the dinner was terrific.

We went very slowly up the Mississippi listening to music by a talented group – I think they played ragtime. Whatever. It definitely added to the relaxed vibe on the boat. Then, just as the sun disappeared we turned around and started back down the river. This was VERY dramatic: the dark, slow-moving Mississippi with hundreds of twinkling lights all along the shoreline was a great sight. CLICK HERE for more information.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

The Big Chill

You’re away from home and you feel terrific. Then, suddenly after nonstop whipping around New Orleans and seeing all the sights you say to yourself, “Gotta take a break.” You’re at the right place.

City Park is a paradise for kids (let’s be honest, it’s for kids of all ages)

TAKE A BREAK ON OUR PORCHES

Porches are one of the most attractive features of the Rathbone Mansions  – they’re like dazzling jewelry that heightens the glam of a basic black dress. One can’t help but notice them. Even better, porches are definitely spots where one can sit down, chill out and recharge.

But, wait a second.  Let’s take a closer look. What’s the difference between a porch and a veranda (or verandah)? Here are the official definitions: a PORCH is a covered shelter in front of the entrance to a house or building while a VERANDA is a roofed platform alongside a house. It’s level with the ground floor and often extends across both the front and sides of the structure. Southern homes often have wraparound verandas where folks sit in the evening to chat and stay cool.

TAKE A BREAK AT THE NEW ORLEANS BOTANICAL GARDEN

No matter where they’re located, these gardens are great. The last trip we took to the 250-acre New York Botanical Garden was at Christmas to see the 26th year of their famous train show and it was absolutely terrific.  If you visit the New Orleans Botanical Garden, you’ll still be walking and moving around but you’ll be in delightful surroundings. CLICK HERE for a current and upcoming Calendar of Events.  

The Garden is located at Five Victory Avenue and is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. They offer free admission for Louisiana residents on Wednesdays (bring an ID). There is also a Visitor Center where you can buy drinks and snacks.

OR GO TO THE NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK AT ONE PALM DRIVE

This is a beautiful, magical park dotted with 600-year-old oak trees. There’s a museum and activities for children. The park staff loves to welcome visitors to New Orleans.  CLAIM TO FAME: On September 19, 2012, the Space Shuttle Endeavour passed over City Park. I’ll bet you can’t beat that one! 

The Carousel in City Park is a WOW! Look closely: THE FLYING HORSES have real horsehair tails

The youngsters can feed the ducks, geese and swans around City Park

Now, let’s hear what those who have visited City Park have to say about it – and yes, all these quotes are straight from the horse’s mouth (okay, a bit of an exaggeration, but you get what I mean). You don’t? (It means one step better than the inner circle of stable boy, trainers, etc. It’s from the horse itself.) Here goes:

“Clean, so much to see for free, great artwork and streetcar accessible.”

“Incredibly relaxing – gives you a refreshing boost.”

“Had coffee and beignets – I’d love to go back.”

“The most beautiful place in New Orleans.”

“Everyone I know calls the horses on the Carousel ‘The Flying Horses’”

“I loved the sculpture garden – it was really beautiful.”

TAKE A BREAK AT RATHBONE

And now, you’re back home at Rathbone. Why not take a dip in our hot tub or pool?  Water is always a terrific way to refresh one’s tired bod. Why do you think the Italians built 170 public and private baths in ancient Rome? It may have been 33 BC but those dudes really knew how to live.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

New Orleans Versus Key West

We love comparing favorite spots and hope you do too. For starters, let’s take New Orleans versus Key West: different, but definitely the same where it counts.

The French Quarter in New Orleans

TRAVELING TO NEW ORLEANS: When we went to the Big Easy it was by plane from the Big Apple. How about taking a train? Going from New York to New Orleans takes 30 hours. An Amtrak train leaves every day. It’s a leisurely way to travel. One can even reserve a spacious Viewliner bedroom for the trip.

TRAVELING TO KEY WEST: If one goes by car from New Orleans to Key West it’s 1,021 miles following the 1-10 route. This takes 16 hours if one drives nonstop. When we drove to Key West my husband, Peter, was the only one driving as we tackled the 113-mile, two-lane Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys. One can go nonstop if there is more than one driver. I got rid of that idea at once.

The two-lane Overseas Highway heading to Key West

FIRST IMPRESSION OF NEW ORLEANS: The first thing you’ll see when strolling along is the remarkable architecture of the Creole faubourgs (fo-burgs) or neighborhoods. There’s everything from the balconies of the French Quarter to the grand mansions of Esplanade Avenue.  Ornamental ironwork, hanging baskets with cascading plants, window shutters – all a stunning visual treat. I had never heard the term “shotgun house” before we visited New Orleans. This is a narrow house (12’ ft. wide) with rooms arranged one behind the other. When one shoots through the front door, the bullet goes right out the back without hitting a wall. Don’t try it.   

FIRST IMPRESSION OF KEY WEST: Everything here seems to be over-the-top, especially the Victorian gingerbread (fine wood carving) architecture. The Captain’s Walk in Key West is a feature that I’d never seen before visiting this tropical city. It’s purpose? Captains stood on the very top of a structure looking for shipwrecks on the coral reef, five miles offshore. (The Curry Mansion in Key West has a Widow’s Walk, a small rooftop platform with a rail where wives went up to look for their sea-faring husbands).  And yes, there’s a historic shotgun house on Truman Avenue in Key West and also a bright pink one.

WHAT IS NEW ORLEANS KNOWN FOR?

Scott Gold has popped up on the web again. He’s opinionated and brash but he does have pretty good ideas for those coming to visit New Orleans.

1.     Never say “N’awlins” – no one says that. People will look at you

2.     Nothing is pronounced as it’s spelled: pralines (PRAW-leens) or pecans (puh-KAHNS) or Terpsichore (TERP-suh-core)

3.     Watch the parades, floats and definitely go for the bead throws

4.     Our musical talent is fantastic – both on the street and in the bars

WHAT IS KEY WEST KNOWN FOR?

Having visited both places, here is my list. We stayed at beachfront Pier House and loved hearing the sound of wind and waves during the night.

1.     It’s known everywhere for its sunset watching on Mallory Square

2.     The Hemingway Home and Museum has over 40 six-toed cats

3.     Excellent water sports and parades – great floats and spectators 

4.     Duval Street makes for leisurely strolling, and yes, even shopping

So what do these two have in common? For both it’s LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL. I think we’ll leave it at that!

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

New Orleans: Hot, Cool and Gone

The three words in the title of this blog are spot-on ones that were used to describe trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie’s playing. Now, I’m using “hot, cool and gone” to describe New Orleans. Why? No reason except that when Life magazine came up with this description in 1948 for a piece titled Bebop: The New Jazz they knocked it out of the park. I love it. So I’m going to steal it!

A BIG “HELLO” TO YOU

Welcome to Rathbone’s new blog series that will appear every week and cover New Orleans in all its glory – and much more. Yes, I’m a New Yorker but I’ve always been intrigued by the American south and its culture so we’re going to expand our coverage and spread out across the country.

Why? Because it will be fun to talk about the people, food, style and so on in this part of the good old USA. I also plan to compare the uniqueness of New Orleans with other spots down South.

So fasten your seatbelts folks, you’re in for a new reading adventure. Or not. At least I’ll give it the old college try – but writing blogs is like snowboarding in the Olympics: nothing is certain. Or as Woody Allen has famously said, “Showing up is 80% of life. Sometimes it’s easier just to hide home in bed. I’ve done both.” He said this after winning an Oscar for his movie Annie Hall.

Then he added, “People are afraid to face how great a part of life is dependent on luck. It’s scary to think how much is out of one’s control.” Of course, ask any snowboarder. Or writer. Let’s face it: everyone can relate to this idea. But enough already, let’s get on with the show.

WELCOME TO NEW ORLEANS

The first thing to accept about this wild and wonderful city is that it’s like no other city on the planet. Have I seen scholarly studies on this subject? No academic working on a doctorate would touch such a hot topic, (they opt for exciting things like “The Eating Habits of the Fruit Fly”). But good old Google saves the day by quoting Travel & Leisure and saying New Orleans is America’s Favorite City.”  Writer Scott Gold sums it all up by saying,

“NEW ORLEANS IS NUMBER ONE AT THESE THINGS”

1.     New Orleans is home to more bars than anywhere else in the country

2.     There are more single people than anywhere else in the United States

3.     If you have a job in New Orleans chances are you’ll be treated well

4.     More movies were made in the state of Louisiana than in Hollywood

5.     New Orleans is a hugely important port city – the Mississippi is busy

6.     The Super Bowl is held regularly in this city: the hospitality + weather

7.     The city ranked #1 in Forbes for attracting those with college degrees

That’s an impressive list, right? Is it overstated? Who knows? I’m a fact checker, not a numbers cruncher. Just remember to stay tuned to us – we’ll give you even more reasons why you should visit fun-loving New Orleans.

CONSIDER THIS:

When was the last time you slept in a mansion? Never? Tsk, tsk, we’ll have to change that. Look into booking into the Rathbone Mansions for your next trip to The Big Easy. You’ll never regret it.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

What does the Rathbone staff have in common with Sofia Coppola?

Over at Condé Nast's truly excellent page about New Orleans, is a quality "Guide to New Orleans" by Sofia Coppola she contributed after filming in town recently. You may remember Sofia as Connie Corleone's baby in the Godfather back in 1972... or more recently as Cannes Film Festival Best Director of 2017.

While we at the Rathbone are not legends in American film history, we certainly have some things in common with Sofia. While we loved all of her NOLA recommendations, like Pêche and Antoine’s, she likes some places that are also particularly special for us.  

First of all, if you stay at the Rathbone, you're probably going to take the short jaunt over to Frenchman St, where you can visit three places Sofia recommends: The Spotted Cat, dba, and Three Muses.  There you'll hear terrific NOLA music any night of the week. Naturally we love having these spots as our neighbors!

Secondly, we have put a lot of hard work into the Rathbone over the last year. We can definitively say that work couldn't have been done without heavy doses of coffee from HiVolt coffee shop over in the Lower Garden District just off Magazine St. We especially recommend the French Connection breakfast sandwich (on a brioche bun instead of a croissant) and the Happy Hippy Bowl! (*drooling*)  Another great thing about HiVolt (and what Sofia probably enjoyed too) is all the super cool local art for sale on the walls.

Thanks much to Sofia and Condé Nast for shouting out some of our local faves!

-Rathbone Staff

"Why Everyone Should Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans"

Recently Ni’Kesia Pannell, writer for INSIDER digital magazine and popular crowd-sourced story-telling blog, posted a nice piece on Mardi Gras in New Olreans, making the case “why everyone should experience it.” We have to agree with her! 

Without the experience, many people may only have the impression of a raucous Bourbon Street, overcrowded with drunks and beaded mayhem. However, as Miss Pannell describes, there is so much more to New Orleans. The fun, laid-back extravagance of NOLA (that’s short for New Olreans, LA for some of you non-locals) permeates everything from the food and music to the stunningly creative and colorful costumes and parade floats. If there’s one thing NOLA can provide you, it’s showing you a good time and making you forget about all your responsibilities! 

Miss Pannell points out the benefits of staying near the Quarter (but maybe not right in the Quarter) so that you keep close to the fun & sights NOLA is most famous for.  While she stayed with our friends over at Homewood Suites, at RATHBONE MANSIONS we’re just a short walk away from Frenchman St and the Quarter, as well as an easy trek over to City Park if you’re coming for Jazz Fest.  

Take Miss Pannell’s advice, come and experience New Orleans for yourself!  Even if not for Mardi Gras, we always have good times in store. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

300th Anniversary of New Orleans

2018 is the New Orleans Tricentennial folks!

For the past 300 years New Orleans has been an important port city, contributing to the rich history and culture of the United States. This year celebrates its 300th anniversary and we're pulling out all the stops! Come celebrate with us.

Get up to date info on everything happening in the City here: http://2018nola.com/

The history of Coffee & Chicory

There's a lot of unique in New Orleans but one thing in particular is the preferred choice of coffee, coffee and chicory, for most New Orleanians. We serve the Community Coffee brand of Coffee & Chicory in both lobbies at Rathbone Mansions throughout the day. It has a delicious and distinct taste. If you're curious about the origin of it read this excellent article on the Smithsonian website and see how mixing coffee and chicory, the root of blue flowered perennial plant, became an essential part of New Orleans culture.

Experiencing NOLA like a local

Garden & Gun Magazine shares their favorite tips on how to experience New Orleans like a local. It's a great read and filled with lots of rich history on the City. Call us or email us if you have any questions or wish to make any reservations during your stay.

Click here to read the article.

Celebration in the Oaks

Come visit City Park in New Orleans for the most spectacular holiday lights in the country!

Where: New Orleans City Park

When: November 24th—January 1st

For more information visit:
www.neworleanscitypark.com/celebration-in-the-oaks

What's happening this week 11/27/17

Friday from 4-9pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12-6*, Dat Dog on Magazine Street hosts the super wonderful Magazine St. Art Market! Stop by to shop the works of local artists – from wearable art like jewelry and clothing, to fine art prints and wood works, the Art Market is the perfect place to find a unique gift or to find works to decorate your home!

3336 Magazine Street

What's happening this week?

Bayou Road Balloon Festival from Nov 10-12th

The Bayou Road Balloon Festival is the first ever hot air balloon festival in the Greater New Orleans area. Located in the oaks of Sidney D. Torres Memorial Park, the festival will feature 15 hot air balloons creating a spectacular "night glow" each evening. The stage and festival grounds will be packed with local musicians and artists showcasing the vibrant communities of St. Bernard Parish.

For more information visit: www.bayouroadballoonfestival.com

Oak Street Po-Boy Fest on Sunday Nov 12th

The Oak Street business corridor in the neighborhood of Carrollton will be transformed into one of the most unique festivals in the world, the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival! This event features some of the finest restaurants, artists and musicians in the Crescent City, all coming together in appreciation of one of New Orleans most distinct and delicious creations… the legendary Po-Boy Sandwich. In addition to great food and music the New Orleans Saints game will be played at a football zone set-up at Oak & Eagle.

For more information visit: www.poboyfest.com

Restaurant Spotlight: Port of Call

Port of Call

Voted best Hamburger by locals, this New Orleans fixture has been serving delicious hamburgers and steaks since 1963 and is only a short walk from Rathbone Mansions. No reservations accepted, and you can expect a line on the weekends, but their tropical drinks can be enjoyed on the sidewalk as you wait.

www.portofcallnola.com

838 Esplanade Ave. // ph: 504-523-0120

Our very own Treme Festival & More

Treme Fall Festival

Sept. 30-Oct. 1

Enjoy the local music and food of this cherished New Orleans neighborhood . Tremé Fest is a FREE event, created to raise money for the beloved St. Augustine Catholic Church. The festival will be held on the streets bordering the church, located at the corner Henriette Delille and Gov. Nicholls .

Carnival Latino

On Sept. 30th, Carnival Latino will bring its rich heritage to the heart of the French Quarter. The festival is presented by the Hispanic-American Musicians and Artists Cultural Association, and it is FREE.

Visit http://carnivalatinola.com for parade times and route.

Things to do

Please see us in the office every day from 8:30AM if you would like us to help you with booking tours, more information about a particular attraction, etc. If you have any questions or would like additional information do not hesitate to call us at the front desk at 504-309-4479 or send us an email to: info@rathbonemansions.com. We're happy to help!

List is in alphabetical order.

A BLOODY MARY HAUNTED MUSEUM & TOUR COMPANY

826 N. Rampart St.

New Orleans, LA 70116

Phone: (504) 915-7774

Region: French Quarter

AIRBOAT ADVENTURES(TM), LLC

5145 Fleming Park Rd.

Lafitte, LA 70067

Phone: (504) 689-2005

Region: Westbank

AMERICAN BICYCLE RENTAL COMPANY & FREE WHEELIN' BIKE TOURS

318 N. Rampart St.

New Orleans, LA 70112

Phone: (504) 324-8257

Region: French Quarter

AUDUBON AQUARIUM OF THE AMERICAS A FACILITY OF AUDUBON NATURE INSTITUTE

1 Canal St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 581-4629

Region: Riverfront

AUDUBON BUTTERFLY GARDEN & INSECTARIUM

423 Canal St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 581-4629

Region: French Quarter

AUDUBON ZOO A FACILITY OF AUDUBON NATURE INSTITUTE

6500 Magazine St.

New Orleans, LA 70118

Phone: (504) 581-4629

Region: Garden District/Uptown

CAJUN ENCOUNTERS TOUR CO.

941 Decatur St.

New Orleans, LA 70116

Phone: (504) 834-1770

Region: French Quarter

CELEBRATION TOURS, LLC

1229 St. Thomas St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 587-7115

Region: Central Business District/Downtown

CEMETERY TOURS

1539 Jackson Ave, Suite 415

New Orleans, La 70130

Phone: (504) 525-3377

Region: Garden District

CITY SIGHTSEEING HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR

700 Decatur St.

New Orleans, LA 70116

Phone: (504) 207-6200

Region: French Quarter

PADDLEWHEELER CREOLE QUEEN

Spanish Plaza Wharf

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 529-4567

Region: Central Business District/Downtown

French Market

1008 North Peters Street

New Orleans, La 70116

Phone: (504) 636-6400

Region: French Quarter

Fulton Alley Bowling and Games

600 Fulton Street

New Orleans, LA 70130 

Phone: (504) 208-5569

Region: Warehouse

GHOST CITY TOURS

Phone: (504) 210-8540

Region: French Quarter

HAUNTED HISTORY TOURS, INC.

New Orleans, LA 70125

Phone: (504) 861-2727

Region: French Quarter

THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION

533 Royal St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 523-4662

Region: French Quarter

HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS TOURS, INC.

2727 Prytania St.

Suite 8

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 947-2120

Region: Garden District/Uptown

JEAN LAFITTE SWAMP & AIRBOAT TOURS

6601 Leo Kerner Pkwy.

Marrero, LA 70072

Phone: (504) 689-4186

Region: Westbank

Lafayette Cemetery #1

1416-1498 Washington Ave.

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 658-3781

Region: Uptown

LOUISIANA STATE MUSEUM

751 Chartres St.

New Orleans, LA 70116

Phone: (504) 568-6970

Region: French Quarter

MARDI GRAS WORLD, LLC

1380 Port of New Orleans Pl.

Next to Convention Center

New Orleans, LA 70130

Phone: (504) 361-7821

Region: Warehouse/Arts District

NEW ORLEANS BOTANICAL GARDEN

Victory Ave.  // CITY PARK

New Orleans, LA 70124

Phone: (504) 483-9488

Region: Mid-City

NEW ORLEANS CITY PARK

1 Palm Dr.

New Orleans, LA 70124

Phone: (504) 488-2896

Region: Mid-City

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART

1 Collins Diboll Cir.  // CITY PARK

New Orleans, LA 70119

Phone: (504) 658-4100

Region: Mid-City

St. LOUIS CEMETERY #1

425 Basin Street. (Basin & St. Louis streets)

New Orleans, LA 70112

Phone: (504) 596-3050

Region: French Quarter

Eats & Drinks in New Orleans

French Quarter/CBD

Arnaud's  Classic Creole Cuisine in the Heart of the French Quarter. $$$ 813 Bienville St.  (504) 523-5433 

Antoines  Circa-1840 old-world grand dame of fine French-Creole dining & birthplace of oysters Rockefeller. $$$ 713 St Louis St. (504) 581-4422

Coops Place  New Orleans staples at an affordable price. $ 1109 Decatur St.  (504) 525-9053 

Deanie's Seafood  Voted “Best Seafood Restaurant” by locals. $ 841 Iberville St.  (504) 581-1316

Drago's Seafood  Home of the famous Charbroiled Oysters and Lobster. $$ 2 Poydras St.  (504) 584-3911

Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar  Seafood platters, fresh-shucked oysters & Creole staples in a casual barroom setting. $ 739 Iberville St.  (504) 522-4440

Felipe's Taqueria  Casual Mexican concept with a craft cocktail bar. $ 301 N. Peters St.  (504) 288-TACO (8226)

Uptown

The Blind Pelican Oyster Bar  Watering hole known for strong drinks, happy-hour oyster deals & a menu of po' boys & pizzas. $ 1628 St. Charles Ave.  (504) 558-9399

Central City BBQ Traditional BBQ sandwiches, sides & plates served in a spacious dining room with cool, modern decor. $ 1201 S. Rampart St.  (504) 558-4276

Juan's Flying Burrito Creole-tinged Tex-Mex in a funky taqueria space with local art & a bar. $ 2018 Magazine St. (504) 569-0000 

La Crepe Nanou Crêpes & other classic French dishes in an intimate, mosaic-tiled bistro space with sidewalk seats. $$ 1410 Robert St. (504) 899-2670 

Pascal's Manale Seafood  Best known for BBQ shrimp and Louisiana-Italian dishes. $$ 1838 Napoleon Ave. (504) 895-4877 

Surrey's Cafe & Juice Bar American & Latin breakfast/lunch fare plus fresh-squeezed juices draw crowds at this quaint cafe. $ 4807 Magazine St. (504) 895-5757

Slice Pizzeria Thin-crust pies & slices plus salads, po' boys, pasta & more in a casual space with an open kitchen $ 1513 St. Charles Ave. (504) 525-7437

Mid-City/Treme

1000 Figs Local Favorite serving seasonal Mediterranean fare in a simple setting. $ 3141 Ponce de Leon St. (504) 301-0848

Café Degas Romantic, intimate French bistro where a tree growing through the dining room adds to the ambiance. $$ 3127 Esplanade Ave. (504) 945-5635 

Crescent City Steakhouse Sizzling butter steaks & other traditional chophouse fare in an old-school space since 1934. $$ 1001 N. Broad St. (504) 821-3271 

Lola's Spanish tapas, paella & entrees plus house made sangria in a quaint, lively space. $$ 3312 Esplanade Ave. (504) 488-6946

Parkway Po-Boy's Longtime (since 1911) neighborhood hangout with a patio known for classic-style po' boys. Be sure to try the Shrimp Po’Boy!  $ 538 Hagan Ave. (504) 482-3047

Marigny/St. Roch/Bywater

Bacchanal Wine Wine-&-cheese store featuring globally accented small plates & live music on a lush back patio. $$ 600 Poland Ave. (504) 948-9111

Pizza Delicious Casual, counter-serve restaurant with thin-crust pizza, beer & a decidedly hipster ambiance. $ 617 Piety St. (504) 676-8482

Red's Chinese Creative Chinese fare made with Southern twists in a simple setting with beer, wine & cocktails too. $ 3048 St. Claude Ave. (504) 304-6030

St. Roch Market 1875 market reborn as a cool food hall with stalls selling eats & drinks, plus some outdoor seating. $$ 2381 St. Claude Ave (504) 609-3813

Brunch

Atchafalaya  Creative Louisiana fare, drinks & brunch Bloody Mary bar in a high-ceilinged space lined with art. $$ 901 Louisiana Ave. (504) 891-9626

Cafe Amelie Romantic spot for elegant contemporary Louisiana fare, plus a lush courtyard with a fountain. $$ 912 Royal St., Princess of Monaco Courtyard (504) 412-8965

Compere Lapin A sophisticated eatery serving Caribbean- and European-accented takes on New Orleans flavors. $$$ 535 Tchoupitoulas St. (504) 599-2107

Elizabeth's Down-home country classics & a busy brunch in a bustling space hung with local art, plus a bar. $$ 601 Gallier St. (504) 944-9272 

Delivery

Verti Marte This longtime market & deli open 24/7 is known for Creole-inspired sandwiches, entrees & sides. $ 1201 Royal St. (504) 525-4767 

Magazine Pizza Specialty pizzas loaded with toppings, plus calzones, wraps & more to eat in or take to go. $ 1068 Magazine St. (504) 568-0211

Uber Eats offers a wide variety of delivery options in the greater New Orleans area.

Getting around New Orleans

If you have any questions or would like additional information do not hesitate to call us at the front desk at 504-309-4479 or send us an email to: info@rathbonemansions.com. We're happy to help!

Airport Shuttle:

This is the official transportation company providing shuttle service for the city of New Orleans to and from the airport.  Upon arrival at the airport, guests can purchase tickets for $20 one way or $38 round trip per person.  Children under 6 are free. The first 3 bags per passenger are free. It departs every 10 minutes from airport. Please call 504-596-2699 for more information.

Taxi:

One or two passengers from the airport is $33. For 3 or more passengers the fare is $14 per passenger, not to exceed 5 people. Taxicab Bureau: 504-658-7102

Regional Transit Authority (RTA) App:

RTA New Orleans has recently launched the new gomobile ticketing application. This mobile app is a convenient way for locals and tourists alike to get around our city by using buses, streetcars and ferries. By using the mobile app, you can read system maps and schedules, find out when the next bus or streetcar is scheduled to arrive, and learn which RTA stops are closest to your current location! Spread the good news! Find out more about this transit advantage by visiting the RTA website.
 

Streetcar:

Ride through the Crescent City on a national historic landmark that only costs $1.25. You can also purchase a Jazzy Pass which entitles the bearer to unlimited rides on all streetcars and bus lines. A 1-Day Jazzy Pass can be purchased from the bus or streetcar operator when you board. Only cash is accepted. The 1-day and 3-day Jazzy Passes are available from Walgreens Stores in New Orleans, various other stores and online. To purchase Jazzy Passes online or for a list of other retail outlets, please click here or download RTA's smartphone app here to download passes onto your phone. Jazzy Passes cost $3 for 1-day and $9 for 3-days. Streetcars have been rumbling along St. Charles Avenue for more than 165 years. Thousands of residents commute to work on the olive-green electric cars every day. 

Riverfront Streetcar:

For $1.25, you can ride the traditional green or newer red streetcars. The two-mile route includes stops at all the right places: the Convention Center at Julia Street, Riverwalk, the Aquarium of the Americas, the French Market and the Old Mint on Esplanade. Operates 7 days a week, 6 a.m.-11:30 p.m. 

Canal/Carrollton Streetcar:

The "newest" re-established streetcar line in New Orleans runs the length of Canal Street. This is the original "Cemeteries" line, which runs from the Mississippi River to the cemeteries located at the Mid-City end of Canal Street. Along the line there is a Carrollton Spur, which will take you to beautiful City Park, home of the New Orleans Museum of Art and the New Orleans Botanical Gardens. This stop is also within walking distance to the Fairgrounds Race Course, where the world-famous New Orleans Jazz Festival takes place every April-May. The Cemetery Branch operates 5 a.m.-3:30 a.m. The City Park / Museum Branch operates 6:15 a.m.-1:20 a.m. 

St. Charles Streetcar:

This line is open around the clock with less frequent service in the evening and early-morning hours. Stops along St. Charles and Carondelet Streets. Travels from the edge of the French Quarter all the way down beautiful St. Charles Avenue. The views of historic architecture beneath the shade of massive, ancient live oaks convey so much of New Orleans' charm and character. The line passes by celebrated restaurants, shops and hotels; some destinations include the Garden District, Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo and Tulane and Loyola Universities. 

Pedicabs:

The premier pedicab company operating in a bicycle-friendly New Orleans. Pedicabs are a new, green form of transportation to recently hit the streets of New Orleans. Eco-friendly, efficient and fun, a pedicab is a great way to get across the Quarter, go to and from your hotel, avoid traffic and parking frustrations, or just pop across town in style and comfort.  Call 504-274-1300 to ride now!