Best Joints for Late Nights

I think it’s high time to have some fun so I’m starting with a late night joint in New York City that was super fun back in the day. Then we’ll move on to four spots in The Big Easy.

Here’s my story: it was time for “A Girl’s Night Out” so we left the guys at home and headed out to a party that we had been invited to at The Roxy – which is no longer around. This was a popular nightclub located at 515 West 18th Street that was basically a roller skating rink with a bar.

As I recall, this was in the disco era so this Chelsea rink was a haven for skaters and partiers alike. It was a vast space so there was plenty of room for both. We talked, laughed, ate and drank until some ungodly hour as the music boomed, the disco lights whirled and the skaters jumped and flipped.

Finally, we decided to leave and stumbled out into the night. It was here that my friend said, “C’mon, we’ll go to Florent for coffee and a bite.” So we walked all the way down along the waterfront to Gansevoort Street in the spooky pitch dark. Not a soul was around. (To this day I still can’t believe we did this.)

Then we spotted the neon pink “Florent” sign in the window of this little joint nestled among meatpacking plants and gay bars. Since most of the streetlights were broken we could barely see it until we entered. And then BOOM!

It was a scene right out of a Fellini movie: characters of every description you can imagine. There was one waiter behind a very long counter who didn’t WAIT on you – so much as PERFORM for you. At that hour of the morning there were no seats at the counter or at the tables so after a bit we left. This wild spot is no longer around so let’s look at The City That Never Sleeps.

An ad for B.B. King’s Blues Club in the French Quarter

CAMELLIA GRILL

Located at 626 S. Carrollton Ave., Phone (504) 866-9573

This restaurant has been in business since 1946. All the waiters wear tux shirts with bow ties and look quite smart. I have never been here, but it’s rumored that they call each other and their customers “Baby” – pretty casual but charming -- stuff.

It’s said that the food here “is the best kind of diner eats: you’ll find everything from omelets to burgers – all washed down with an icy drink called The Chocolate Freeze. Part of the lore here is this: after Hurricane Katrina the owners closed the restaurant. Customers felt lost and betrayed so they posted hundreds of yellow Post-it Notes on the building saying, “Please Reopen! I need a Chocolate Freeze.”

DELACHAISE

Located at 3442 St. Charles Ave., Phone (504) 895-0858

This wine bar and bistro is just steps away from where the St. Charles streetcar runs. It offers a choice of over 350 wines. That’s pretty impressive! One diner reports that, “The small plates are great – especially the over-the-top grilled cheese sandwich with apple butter.”

It’s also said that everyone loves the pommes frites. These are brought to a heavenly level in goose fat. The cheese tray is also a winner. You can pick your own cheese or have them do it for you. Let’s end this on a high note: an out-of-towner says, “The pork duck pate blew my mind.” (Even if you tried, you couldn’t make this stuff up.)

CLOVER GRILL

Located at 900 Bourbon St., Phone (504) 598-1010

This is a popular spot that’s been in business since 1939 and serves food that is good for a hangover. It has pink menus and features a row of 50s-style diner stools. It even appeared in the movie titled, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett.

Their menu is hysterical: I doubled over laughing. For example, they have a Daily Breakfast Special for $9.29 that to me LOOKS HUGE. Then they add at the bottom of this item, “If you are not served in five minutes, relax. It may be another five – this is NOT NEW YORK CITY. It’s time for you to CLICK HERE and read this nutty, over-the-top menu.

COOP’S PLACE

Located at 1109 Decatur St., Phone (504) 525-9053

This is the only place I’ve seen where they say, “No patrons under 21” followed by “No Reservations.” It’s right across from the B.B. King Blues Club in the French Quarter. One patron describes it as “a great little dive bar with delicious food so there may be a wait – but it's worth it.”

This is a unique place with lots of history on its walls. On the menu you’ll find: Smoked Duck Quesadilla, Cajun Fried Chicken plus Rabbit and Sausage Jambalaya – as well as sandwiches and burgers.

And there you have it. Come for a visit, stay for the eats.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? The City That Never Sleeps has excellent cab and Uber service. And, since we’re a short distance from the French Quarter you’ll have no problem kickin’ up your heels until the wee hours. And then what? It’s back to Rathbone – where you’ll sink into a super-soft four-poster bed and sleep like a baby.      

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever restaurant you choose to visit.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

A Journey of Discovery

We want to make your trip to New Orleans as memorable as possible. So here are six must-see places that definitely work for both adults and children – no one will be bored and you’ll all have lots to talk about after returning home.

Families love to go for strolls in City Park

ONE The Louisiana Children’s Museum is now (after 30 years on Julia Street) in City Park at 15 Henry Thomas Dr., (504) 523-1357

Having a great time at the Louisiana Children’s Museum

This is a place where kids use play, shared exploration and conversation to connect with the people and the world around them. There’s 56,000 sq. ft. of “Whoa, what’s that?” It’s a place where wonderful things happen daily. And that’s inside! The outside activities include adventures on the water, in the garden and much more – or, said differently: 8.5 acres for the kiddies to explore!

TWO The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, at One Canal Street, (504) 565-3033

This aquarium is located along the banks of the Mississippi River. It’s also a nine-minute walk on Decatur Street to The French Quarter. Overall, it will transport you and your family and friends to an underwater world that stretches from the Caribbean to the Amazon rainforest. Closer to home, it also features the waters that give New Orleans its lifeblood: the Mississippi and the Gulf of Mexico. The museum showcases more than 250 species including endangered ones such as African penguins. Come and have an experience you’ll never forget.  

THREE The Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium at 423 Canal Street, (504) 581-4629

The Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is a big hit with kids of all ages

Since 2008 this museum has been in the United States Custom House, a historic government building that was first occupied in 1856. Wow! That’s 165 years ago. This is North America’s largest museum devoted to insects and their relatives. Cousins? Visitors can wander through a mysterious Louisiana swamp and be captivated by thousands of butterflies in an Asian garden. Note: there are more than one million species of insects on planet earth. It’s said that they’re so successful because (a) they’re small and (b) they can fly. If that’s the case, we’re not even on the radar.

FOUR The National WWII Museum at 945 Magazine Street, (504) 528-1944

This museum offers a wide variety of family activities that inform, educate and entertain. Here are just a few of their offerings: (a) there are Boy, Girl and Cub Scout Days, (b) they have a Victory Corps for students aged 13-17 who have a passion for history and learning, (c) they offer an array of summer camp opportunities and (d) they sponsor a summer canteen so kids can escape the heat by spending select Saturdays in The National WWII Museum’s BB’s Stage Door Canteen! Note: BB stands for Boysie Bollinger – the museum’s largest private donor and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards.

FIVE The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum at 514 Chartres Street, (504) 565-8027

The building that houses the Pharmacy Museum was constructed in 1823 for Louis Dufilho Jr., America’s first licensed pharmacist. It was classified as a Creole townhouse – and served as an apothecary and residence until 1855. The 19th century was a turning point in the history of medicine. With the discovery of surgical anesthesia physicians entered the realm of “modern” medicine.  

SIX Mardi Gras World at 1380 Port of New Orleans Place (next to the Convention Center), (504) 361-7821

When you’re a little shrimp this is the best way to watch the festivities! Above is a “ladder seat” that goes on a car. CLICK HERE to read how to make one for the Mardi Gras parades.

I visited Mardi Gras World with my husband, Peter and it’s simply wonderful – you’ll love it. It’s 300,000 sq. ft. of spectacular floats and props. You’ll never get this close to the floats while they’re rolling along in Mardi Gras parades. They handle over 500 floats every year and this is the only place to see how these amazing pieces come to life. Come see where the Mardi Gras magic is made!

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? This time of the year is great for kids – young and old. The spots we’ve written about in this blog can be a learning experience for the junior set – as well as entertaining and fun. Come and stay with us – the whole family will have many memories for years to come.  

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever museum or exhibit you choose to visit.  

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Welcome to New Orleans

If you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of New Orleans why not visit a plantation and see how folks lived back in the day. In the 19th century SUGAR made Louisiana wealthy and now you can take a tour or drive along a 70-mile stretch of highway between New Orleans and Baton Rouge to get an insight into this world. Let’s take a look.

An ad for Louisiana’s famous plantations

I.

OAK ALLEY PLANTATION RESTAURANT AND INN

LOCATED AT: 3645 Highway18, Vacherie, LA Call (225) 265-2151

This is the only plantation that my husband, Peter and I visited. I have to say: it was absolutely spectacular. If you’re in a crunch and only have time for one tour – this is the one you should take. The plantation was restored in 1920 and began the revival of bringing “grand houses” back to life. Now, you can tour Oak Alley, dine on Creole and Cajun cuisine in its restaurant and even stay overnight. Oak Alley has Sunday Brunch and offers a Children’s Breakfast for those little scamps who are 11-years-old and younger. A FUN FACT: The scary movie “Hush, Hush Sweet Charlotte” that featured Bette Davis, Olivia de Havilland and Joseph Cotton was partly filmed here.

II.

THE DESTREHAN PLANTATION: 13 MILES NORTH OF NOLA

LOCATED AT: 13034 River Rd., Destrehan, LA Call (985) 764-9315

Again, if you’re on a tight schedule, this one is for you because it’s fairly close to New Orleans. It was established in 1787 and is the oldest documented plantation home in the lower Mississippi Valley. This historic antebellum home on the banks of the river has lush green grounds and moss-draped live oaks. A SPOOKY STORY: A former owner lost his wife when she was only 19-years-old. Later he found out that she had been unfaithful. So today it’s said that visitors can feel his anger. Even worse, Jean Lafitte, the famous pirate also haunts this plantation. He’s looking for his buried treasure. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!  

III.

THE OPULENT SAN FRANCISCO PLANTATION

LOCATED AT: 2646 Hwy 44, Garyville, LA Call (985) 535-2341

This antebellum, galleried main house is nestled under centuries of old live oaks and contains rooms featuring rare antiques that tell the story of its former residents. It was built in 1849 and, in profile, has a styling called, “Steamboat Gothic,” a very colorful description. WHAT’S THE SCUTTLEBUTT? One legend holds that the French phrase “son saint-frusquin” or “the shirt off his back” was a description of what the construction of the house cost its first owner. Some things never change!

IV.

NOTTOWAY PLANTATION: A GLORIOUS “BIG HOUSE”

LOCATED AT: 31025 Hwy 1, White Castle, LA Call (866) 527-6884

This is the home of the South’s largest antebellum mansion – a magnificent 1850’s sugarcane plantation – the driving time between New Orleans and this estate is roughly one and a half hours.

This is the largest mansion on a plantation in the entire South. This means you can explore this 53,000 sq. ft. residence via a self-guided audio tour or with an on-site tour guide. You can get to this plantation by bus, car or car ferry. If you drive it’s 78 miles from New Orleans. WHAT’S THE INSIDE STORY? A murder is committed here every few weeks! The Murder Mystery Theatre performs with a troupe of actors. It’s a period piece related to the plantations early days and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

V. and VI.

A GREAT TEAM: WHITNEY AND LAURA PLANTATIONS

THE WHITNEY: At 5099 Hyw 18, Wallace, LA. Call (225) 265-3300

THE LAURA: At 2247 LA-18, Vacherie, LA. Call (225) 265-7690

There are two different approaches here: the WHITNEY focuses on the lives of the enslaved people who worked in the cane fields – while the LAURA tells the story of one Creole family through four generations of those who lived there. Scenes from the Quentin Tarantino film “Django Unchained” were filmed on and around the WHITNEY. This is the only museum in Louisiana with an exclusive focus on the lives of the enslaved people.

An ad for a plantation where four generations of one family lived

The guided walking tour of the LAURA includes a tour of the main house, gardens and slave quarters. It lasts approximately one hour and fifteen minutes – self-guided tours are prohibited. AN ASTOUNDING FACT: The planter, Stephen Duncan, owned 1,000 slaves in the 1850s.   

The Laura is a Creole plantation (1805) where you will see the main house, gardens and slave quarters – no self-guided tours are allowed

DON’T FORGET:

Martin Luther King Day falls on Monday, January 18, 2021. This is a federal holiday that respects the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. whose life was brutally cut short when he was just 39-years-old. I once heard him at Columbia – he was a riveting speaker and held all of us spellbound. 

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Yes, it’s a brand new year. We are now looking at 2020 in the rearview mirror. Have you ever slept in a canopied bed that’s in a gracious antebellum mansion? New experiences are what make life exciting. So why not plan to pay us a visit in 2021? New Orleans is like no other city in the world!

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever plantation you choose to visit.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick     

A Quick Overview of NOLA, Part 3

We’re heading for the finish line – make sure you look at all three write-ups because we have found some really special places for you to explore. We’ve taken ten New Orleans’ neighborhoods and looked at what each has to offer – our aim was to strive for lots of choices. The subject of “food” is pretty tricky: what one person thinks is absolutely sublime – another won’t touch with a 10 ft. pole. Ask any chef about this and I’m sure you’ll get an earful. 

If there’s one thing the 2020 pandemic has taught us it’s this: drinking is a lot more fun when you can go out with the gang.

SEVEN – FAUBOURG MARIGNY AND BYWATER  

The Country Club: eat, drink, socialize and go for a swim – it’s all here. Escape the bustle of the French Quarter in a bucolic setting. The Club has been in business for more than 40 years. Ever had a Truffle Mac-N-Cheese? You’ll love it. This class act is at 634 Louisa St., 504-945-0742

The charming Country Club is hidden away in New Orleans’ charming Bywater neighborhood. 

St. Roch Market: a stunning food hall that you will love. Southern Living magazine notes that, “St. Roch generates the nostalgia of a bygone time and place – that’s suddenly not so far away.” Seating options allow for dining, drinking or hanging out. It’s at 2381 St. Claude Ave., 504-267-0388

Bywater American Bistro: there are three menus: dinner, brunch and cocktails. Entrées for dinner include: Curried Rabbit with Coconut Rice and Peas or Half Jerk Chicken with Semolina Dumplings. There is also a COOLinary menu. The Bistro is at 2900 Chartres St., 504-605-3827

EIGHT – TAKING IN THE HISTORIC TREMÉ

Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: has been serving American/Cajun/Creole cuisine since 1941. The Tremé is the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited African-American neighborhood. This restaurant has great food served with care. You’ll find it at 2301 Orleans Ave., 504-821-0600

Gabrielle Restaurant: a family-run place with a creative menu. One reviewer says, “From the She Crab Bisque to the Traiteur Fish (seared filet served on top of a crab cake) you can’t go wrong!” Located off the beaten path at 2441 Orleans Ave., 504-603-2344. Comment: I always order the She Crab Soup at the Oyster Bar in NYC’s Grand Central – it's heavenly.

Willie Mae’s Scotch House: one of the best spots in town for fried chicken. It has “Kid’s Meals (ages 12 and under)” on the menu and, for adults – an over-the-top dessert called Turtle Cheesecake (don’t ask). There are also vegan selections on the menu. Go to 2401 St. Ann St., 504-822-9503

NINE – MARVELING AT LAKEVIEW/LAKEFRONT

Landry’s Seafood: this area is named after its stunning views of Lake Pontchartrain. Hankering for Popcorn Shrimp with Remoulade Sauce (bite-sized pieces of battered shrimp) with your drink as you watch a glorious sunset? Landry’s is at 8000 Lakeshore Dr., 504-283-1010

TEN – SAILING AWAY TO SCENIC ALGIERS

Dry Dock Café: and bar – it’s a short, scenic ferry ride away from the French Quarter. Offers a traditional American menu that includes burgers, gumbo, catfish, salads and po’boys. Dry Dock is the perfect place for lunch. This café is located at 133 Delaronde St., 504-361-8240  

CLICK HERE read our “Happy New Year To All.”

CLICK AGAIN for “Looking Ahead to January 2020” – some things may have changed – but many have not.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? To all our guests: past, present and future, we’d just like to wish all of you the very best of the season. Do enjoy the holiday season and stay safe. We want to see all your smiling faces back in New Orleans and lodging with us in 2021.

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever restaurant you choose.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

A Quick Overview of NOLA, Part 2

Last week we gave you great suggestions of what to eat and where to dine in our fabled city – now we have more suggestions for you. We want all our visitors to return home with a little more heft. Don’t worry – January is the big diet month!

FOUR – LOOKING AT CBD/DOWNTOWN

Willa Jean: discover a different side of New Orleans: this one likes to keep things seasonal. Looking closer, on their menu they list a Hangover Bowl with five ingredients – including a poached egg. They also offer biscuits and avocado toast from 7 to 9 pm at 611 O’Keefe Ave., 504-509-7334

Café Bon Ami: offers delicious coffee and cold brew. “An adorable coffee spot” is how one visitor describes this place. The building they’re in was built in 1858. It originally served as a cotton exchange. This gem is located at 822 Perdido, Unit E in the Central Business District, 504-962-7374

Palace Café: a classic New Orleans restaurant that serves Creole cuisine. This restaurant’s menu features favorites such as: Seafood Gumbo, Bananas Foster and White Chocolate Bread Pudding. It offers outdoor dining at their sidewalk café and is located at 605 Canal St., 504-523-1661

Tsunami Sushi: invites you to dine on expertly prepared raw fish dishes. Be sure and check out their “Dine In” Daily Deals that feature special discounts. They also flag a number of menu items in red that say, “EAT FIT” – you’ll find this place at 601 Poydras St., Suite B, 504-608-3474

FIVE – ENJOYING THE LUSH GARDEN DISTRICT

Nolé Restaurant: the first thing that pops up on the web for this restaurant is “Cuisine de las Americas.” This place brings the fresh flavors of Mexico to the heart of New Orleans for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. It’s at 2001 St. Charles Ave., 504-593-9955

Emeril’s Delmonico: serves Creole cuisine in a grand setting. The elegant bar serves both classic and signature cocktails. Favorite dishes include: Gumbo and Pork Cheeks with Dirty Rice. This restaurant is near the St. Charles streetcar line – at 1300 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-4937

Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar: and Fish House specializes in oysters: grilled, fried and raw. It also serves a Southern Fried Fish Dinner and Charbroiled Oysters with Garlic Butter and Parmesan cheese. Absolutely delicious! Located at 1327 St. Charles Ave., 504-627-0169

Joey K’s Restaurant: and Bar – You’ll find it at 3001 Magazine St., open 11 am to 9 pm Mon-Sat. They say, “We rest on Sundays.” They offer drinks such as Dark & Stormy, Mint Julep and Sazerac – all will get you ready for Chicken Fried Steak. They’re at 3001 Magazine St., 504-891-0997

SIX – DISCOVERING THE MID-CITY

Rosedale: in Mid-City or “The Back of Town” – now the heart of NOLA. The Canal St. streetcar will get you from downtown. Owner Susan Spicer is a big fan of locally sourced ingredients. You’ll find this hidden treasure with its delicious food and friendly staff at 801 Rosedale Dr., 504-309-9595

Ralph’s on the Park: take in the view of City Park from the balcony of this classic Creole restaurant. This place offers a Curbside Sunday Night Supper as well as a Weekend Brunch that includes BBQ Shrimp and Grits. You’ll find Ralph’s at 900 City Park Ave., 504-488-1000

CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT OUR FAMOUS STREETCARS.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Our two stately mansions are elegant reminders of New Orleans’ storied, antebellum PAST. However, the services we offer are definitely in sync with TODAY. Take a look: a large self-service bar for our guests, fresh water and granola bars around-the-clock and on-site parking for your own car or a rental. Come and enjoy.     

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever restaurant you choose.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

A Quick Overview of NOLA, Part 1

This blog and the two following it will give you a good idea of “what to eat and where to find it” in the Big Easy. Take a look – you won’t be sorry!

 ONE – VISITING THE FRENCH QUARTER

New Orleans can be rowdy at times – but then it turns magically quiet, charming and downright elegant

 Muriel’s Jackson Square: excellent Creole dishes – and a lush interior. This restaurant was once a stylish private home in the heart of the French Quarter. The Courtyard Bar is the perfect place to drop by for drinks and appetizers. Located at 801 Chartres Street, 504-568-1885

The Pelican Club: an elegant Creole restaurant that has three dining rooms. One visitor notes that “the food is outstanding and the service is second to none.” Ask about their Coolinary Menu 2020. You’ll find this treasure at 312 Exchange Place, 504-523-1504

Tujague’s: established in 1856 – which makes it the second oldest restaurant in New Orleans. It has a great brunch and delicious gumbo. Best of all, they have a special Pimm’s Cup and bottomless Mimosas. It’s at 823 Decatur Street and can be reached at 504-525-8676

Napoleon House: a 200-year-old landmark that captures the essence of New Orleans. One diner says, “I would definitely recommend it for lunch and drinks – it has a great ambiance that people love.”  This restaurant is situated at 500 Chartres Street, call 504-524-9752

Justine: a French restaurant that combines the sophistication of Parisian brasseries with the spirit and fun of the French Quarter. “We loved the vibe and décor,” says a recent visitor. Another notes, “We had the fried oysters which were great.” Justine’s can be found at 225 Chartres Street and reached at 504-218-8533 

TWO – GOING TO THE WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

Auction House Market: you’ll find “A Pirate Remembers” drink at The Mayhew and delicious oysters at Elysian Seafood. The lower level is a multi-vendor food hall where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. The tomato soup at Panera is great. Look for all at 801 Market Street

Gianna: this restaurant offers a rustic Italian cuisine. If you’re in the mood for a Sunday Supper (from 5 to 9 pm) this is the place for you. Ask about their “Feed Me” option to experience a four-course meal created by the chef. You’ll find Gianna at 700 Magazine Street, 504-399-0816

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse: this is a renowned restaurant that was founded in NOLA. Enjoy lunch (prix fixe) that includes a starter, entrée and a personal side. They’ll also be happy to make a custom cocktail for you. Located at 525 Fulton Street, (inside Harrah’s Hotel), 504-587-7099

Ruth’s Kris Steakhouse is inside Harrah’s Hotel – eat first, play later

 THREE – EXPLORING OUR UPTOWN 

Picnic Provisions and Whiskey: offers soulful “picnic ready” food to share with family and friends. Their fare includes: a Crunch Salad, Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich and Bonfire Brownie S’mores. Happy Hour is Wed-Sun, 3 to 7pm. At 741 State Street, 504-266-2810

Jacques-Imo’s: if you’re looking for “real Nawlins’ food” then this place is for you. The menu offers Fried Green Tomatoes plus Shrimp and Alligator Sausage Cheesecake (don’t ask). They even have sautéed mussels (a favorite of mine). This place is at 8324 Oak Street, 504-861-0886

CLICK HERE for “Cheers! Xmas at NOLA.”

FOR OUR “FREE STUFF” CLICK ON https://rathbonemansions.com/new-blog/2019/12/3/new-years-eve-in-nola

Okay, that’s it. But stay tuned we’ll have two more blogs for you to peruse. We don’t want  anyone to go to bed hungry. No sir!

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? We’re getting closer to Xmas so it’s time to think about gifts for the little ones – who have been through a lot lately (a three-year-old should NOT know what a face mask is – let alone wear one!) Good news: Here, you’ll find many shops selling toys, games, books, apparel plus arts and crafts for the junior set – most within walking distance of Rathbone.  

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever restaurant you choose.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

“It’s Five O’clock Somewhere”

Every time a person says, “Should we drink to that?” another replies with, “Well, always remember – it’s five o’clock” (the start of the official cocktail hour) “somewhere in the world.” 

I’ve heard this saying my entire life, but out of curiosity, I decided to research it on the web. I found endless scientific comments as to why this is not true – none of which I bothered to read completely. Lighten up, guys! It’s a great saying: leave it at that – and it serves an even greater purpose. 

THE CREATION OF A DRINK 

Terrific cocktails that stand the test of time often come about because some wise soul decided to create a “new kid on the block.” I read this in a fascinating article (Travel & Leisure, Sept. 2020) by Talia Baiocchi who is described as “A Cocktail Writer.” What? Wait! I never knew there was such a thing! But, as soon as I typed in her name on the web, there she was – dressed in black from neck to club boots and reading to the “standing room only” crowd in the back room of Jimmy’s No. 43.  

A place where people who write about drinks for a living can read aloud to their boozy muse

I am SO jealous. I write about everything under the sun (boozy or otherwise) and I never read to anyone. But what about these people whose go-to tool is a computer? Or a typewriter? At this event, Kara Newman, who ditched a finance career for a more spirited life says, “Drinks writers just can’t get NO respect. We don’t get a lot of love from the greater food writing establishments.”  

Kara, I have news for you: writers everywhere don’t get NO respect. In Hollywood, once a super talent writes a sizzling script the studio grabs it and shoots the writer. So there you have it. 

Timeless drinks are born in hotels around the world  

Baiocchi goes on to describe Ada Coleman, the world’s first female celebrity bartender, who at the start of the 20th century helmed the American Bar at London’s SAVOY HOTEL. Then she writes about Harry Craddock, who held the same position in the 1920s and 1930s. Between the two of them they were responsible for creating a number of NOW-CLASSIC cocktails.  

The “Hanky Panky” at the Savoy Hotel – don’t you love these frisky names?

Then Salvatore Calabrese, working half a century later at the DUKES LONDON HOTEL thought it was precisely within rights of the hotel bar to freeze a bottle of gin or vodka, pour it straight into a glass with great tableside flair and call it a COCKTAIL. The now-iconic Dukes MARTINI is still served by head bartender Alessandro Palazzi. 

A cool, sophisticated martini at the Dukes Hotel in London

Unlike the tiki bar, the hotel bar doesn’t need a theme  

Moving on Baiocchi notes that “every time I step into Bemelmans Bar at the CARLYLE HOTEL, tuck into a corner banquette while a Cole Porter or Duke Ellington tune plays and order an OLD CUBAN, I feel as if I’m drinking an enduring, rose-colored vision of New York.” Very nicely said.   

A classic “Old Cuban” at the storied Carlyle Hotel in New York City

Since 1938 the Sazerac drink has been served in NOLA  

It’s a simple yet POTENT drink that was created in The Big Easy and is served at the Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel. No serious cocktail drinker would leave town without discovering it there or at any other fine restaurant or bar in the city.   

Sipping Sazerac at the Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans 

All photos courtesy of Travel & Leisure, September 2020

CLICK HERE and see the dazzling Xmas display at the Roosevelt.     

CLICK HERE for our blog “Looking Ahead to December.”

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? We strive to give the very best service. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to help you book a tour or make reservations at a local restaurant!

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever restaurant you choose.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Glancing Back. Moving On.

It’s time to take a look at this apocalyptic year so I’ve complied a list – starting in October and moving into the current month – of sad, upbeat, timely and even funny news items that I’ve run across. Yes, the list is a mash-up, but overall, one gets a pretty complete picture.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020

Rather bleak news: another 840,000 American workers applied for unemployment benefits in the previous week. This brought the number of jobless claims to roughly 63,000,000 or 40% of the nation’s total workforce.  

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14

Secret pregnancies are on the rise – thanks to working from home. With virtual meetings replacing real ones and strategically placed laptop cameras there is no need to come forth with the big news. Now, new mothers-to-be have the option (and power) of when to notify their employers. “This can be liberating,” said one executive. “It also allows me to get the rest and medical appointments I need without having too many awkward conversations about why.” Another remarked, “It wasn’t really ‘a secret’ – however, right up to the day I left to go on maternity leave there were still a number of my colleagues who had no idea I was pregnant.” It made work easier because nobody made assumptions about my ability to carry on.” 

MONDAY, OCTOBER 18

The rich are really different: they’re buying more high-end jewelry, e.g., diamond rings and gold necklaces. Fine jewelry sales were up 10% to $5,000,000,000 (yes, you read that correctly) in August 2020. “In every market in the world, the #1 competition to our industry is travel,” says one executive with De Beers, the world’s largest diamond mining firm. “But with travel in a slump, diamond jewelry has been capturing some of the unspent travel budget.” 

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22

The weekend of 10/17-18 was the busiest for air travel in the U.S. since the start of the pandemic – more than one million folks passed through airport checkpoints on Sunday, October 18 – the most since March 17, 2020. This is still well below pre-pandemic figures. 

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26

Okay, it’s time for some comic relief. Apparently, CNN anchor Anderson Cooper, suggested on air that Jennifer Lawrence “staged” her fall at the 2013 Oscars where she won the Best Actress Award for her performance in “Silver Linings Playbook.” Months later, she saw Cooper at a holiday party and confronted him by asking, “Have you ever tried to walk up stairs in a ballgown? How do you know what it’s like?” He replied, “I have no idea” followed by a wonderful apology. Lawrence believes they’re good friends now.  

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Here’s what the moneyed jet set is doing in 2020. Globally, commercial flights were down two-thirds between March 1st and early September – compared with the same period last year. Now, sales of private jets are increasing. “We now have three times the number of new owners as we had at this point last year,” notes one executive. “People who viewed plane ownership as a luxury now believe that the ultimate luxury is peace of mind. My clients come from the U.S., Europe, Asia and the Middle East.” In the past month he has helped folks buy more than $200,000,000 worth of new aircraft – “most of it in cash” he adds.  

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Finally, an incredible and upbeat news report! A little three-year-old girl was found alive beneath the rubble four days after a 7.0 earthquake in Turkey. For more than 90 hours Ayda Gezgin was trapped until rescuer Nusret Aksoy heard her call out. She was in a tight space next to a dishwasher, which had shielded her from falling debris. “We have witnessed a miracle,” said one resident.  

A brave little girl – may she have a long and happy life

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13

A headline today reads, Dessert Storm. It goes on to cream the House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi for  “showing off” two $24, 000 Sub-Zero freezers stocked with $13 pints of premium ice cream on “The Late Late Show” -- at the peak of the pandemic, no less. The Democrats are blaming her for the party’s poor showing in the House races. 

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? Do you and your friends like music? Of course, you do – everyone does! It engages and lifts the mind and soul. That’s why you’ll be happy to know that the Rathbone Mansions are only 12 minutes from Frenchmen Street, a four-block stretch of live music that includes: modern and traditional jazz, funk and R&B in bars, restaurants, night clubs and more. You came to The Big Easy to have fun. This is where you’ll find it.      

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

New Orleans: the Top Dining City, Part II

Last week we did Part I of this series, so this week we’re going to post Part II – with a little twist. We’re covering a hotel and its bar and including a review of how a restaurant fares when it does home delivery. This can be tricky at times – but the place we chose came through with flying colors – so let’s proceed to New Orleans’ first cousin: the remarkable Metairie.

BANH MI BOYS

5001 Airline Drive,

Suite B,

Metairie, LA 70001

(504) 510-5360 

Why do I refer to Metairie this way? First, Ellen DeGeneres, the multi-talented TV host, writer and producer was born there and grew up to have a net worth of $330 million so Metairie must be doing something right and, second: it’s only seven miles from New Orleans – which may be more important than the first – but who cares? 

I started to write this blog but then I looked at the sandwich photo for Banh Mi Boys and immediately headed for the kitchen. Everything they touch is so appetizing that one suddenly develops a raging hunger.

After downing a four oz. yogurt from Trader Joe’s (it was the best I could do) I raced back to work – stomach still rumbling – and kept going with, “The most celebrated of the recent immigrants to land in New Orleans are the Vietnamese. In the decades since their arrival, we have seen restaurants increasingly embrace local food on their menus.” 

For example, Banh Mi Boys puts traditional Vietnamese meats in their French bread sandwiches. They also use bulgogi beef (literally means “fire meat”) or thin slices grilled on a barbecue, five-spice pork plus oysters Rockefeller.  

But what about home delivery – how do the Banh Mi Boys specialties travel? It seems they do very well. One very satisfied customer says, “Their Steak and Eggs Bo Ne Fries are truly fantastic. We also got an order of shrimp and pork spring rolls that arrived fresh and tasty. I highly recommend this service. The staff was extremely nice as well.”     

A terrific variety of specialties at the Banh Mi Boys restaurant in Metairie

SABA RESTAURANT

5757 Magazine Street,

Suite A,

New Orleans, LA 70115

(504) 324-7770 

Saba (“grandfather”) will allow you to step into Alon Shaya’s world and experience classic Israeli cuisine with local twists. This James Beard-winning chef offers delicious choices. For example, the author’s two-year-old toddler gave a “thumbs up” when he sucked on the delicious meatless wing bones.  

Other favorites at this uptown New Orleans restaurant are: orange blossom granola with “labneh” which is tangy, thick and creamy, or basically, a yogurt cheese. Other mouth-watering items on the menu include lamb kehab, octopus and red snapper. Be sure and put Saba on your bucket list – you won’t be sorry.

Diners at Saba                                Saba’s Harissa Roasted Chicken

THE ELYSIAN BAR

AT HOTEL PETER & PAUL

2317 Burgundy Street,

New Orleans, LA 70117

(504) 356-5200 

Visit here and experience the beautiful renovation of a Catholic church. Stop for a drink at their Elysian Bar which is what every bar on the planet aims to be: very welcoming. Their duck-egg omelet and Baked Sunchoke Custard are both inventive and familiar.  

The Elysian Bar in the Peter & Paul Hotel is warm, intimate and classic

The bar menu is centered around seafood and vegetables; it consists entirely of small plates, (most at $15 or less) and mixes tradition, e.g., chicken leg confit – with creativity for many of its vegetable choices. The impression I get from looking at this establishment on the web – is one of elegant sophistication. I’d love to try their Mussels Escabeche (mussels, champagne vinegar, olive oil, Spanish paprika and saffron).  

Delicious, mouth-watering roasted gulf shrimp at the Elysian Bar

ELYSIAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

(IN THE ST. ROCH MARKET)

2381 St. Claude Avenue,

New Orleans, LA 70117

(504) 609-3813 

The Elysian Seafood Restaurant is known for serving dishes such as sizzling charbroiled oysters and succulent Louisiana crab cakes. They pride themselves on having a courteous staff that will help you select the perfect menu items. Or, as one diner writes, “The best oysters I’ve ever had were at the Elysian! Go ahead and order a full dozen. You won’t be sorry!” 

Another reviewer writes, “One of the best food halls I’ve ever seen. The building itself dates back to 1875, but the design firm – I believe – has retained the beauty and integrity of the building. They kept the 30-ft. ceilings, steel columns and the all-white look so the end result is elegance and modern simplicity. It’s simply wonderful!”  

Photos: Courtesy of Southern Living 

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? There are times when “eating in” seems like an excellent idea – especially when one has been sightseeing all day. Whether you order in, or pick up dinner on your way home, you’ll find that Rathbone makes this very easy: all of our rooms come with mini fridges and microwaves. And, if you and your family or friends, want to be entertained afterwards, you can take it easy in front of a flat screen TV. At Rathbone we think of everything for your ultimate ease and comfort.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

New Orleans: the Top Dining City, Part I

I recently came across a fascinating article written by Lolis Eric Elle, a native New Orleanian and author of Treme Stories and Recipes From the Heart of New Orleans. This piece appeared in the April 2020 issue of Southern Living magazine and is titled, “The South’s Best.” It also has a list of the top 10 “restaurant cities” in the South. So guess what city scores #1? Yippee! The good old Big Easy!  

What I found particularly interesting about this article is that the author has taken a new approach in his discussion about New Orleans’ restaurants. To start, he dined at many of these spots with his charming wife and two-year-old son whose response to various tastes can only be described as “comic relief.” For example, at one spot, the adults preferred the fish, while the toddler zeroed in on the white bread. 

On a more serious note, the overall theme of this ambitious write-up (includes roughly 19 bold-faced names) is to explore the NEWCOMERS to New Orleans’ dining scene – a pretty daunting undertaking that I have whittled down to four for this blog and the same number for the following blog next week.  

Or, as the author explains, “The classic restaurants in New Orleans still deliver great meals and memories BUT now this city finds itself increasingly influenced by new tastes from around the country and the world.” Yes, that says it all.

N7 RESTAURANT

1117 Montegut Street,

New Orleans, LA 70117

No phone: email: contact@nola.com 

Whoever heard of a restaurant that does not have a phone? Frankly, I couldn’t believe what I was reading. But, I guess it’s true. The second thing is the name: to me “N7” sounds like the exit ramp off a freeway AND in no way, describes the restaurant itself: it’s definitely rustic, charming and delightfully French. This gem is located in Bywater and is owned by filmmaker Aron Walker and chef Yuki Yamaguchi – hence French cuisine with a Japanese touch. 

N7 serves a Duck à l’Orange that is excellent but not exactly classic French

The restaurant was once a stable for carriage horses and the name can be described this way: the “N7” is a highway that once ran from Paris to Italy and is known as the “Route des Vacances” – meaning: vacationing Parisians would travel on this road as it headed south. Along the way, the Michelin Guide would direct them to unknown – but great little restaurants – in farmhouses and hotels. This was the beginning of the Michelin Star. Okay, that’s a marvelous story and now the name makes more sense to me.

MARJIE’S GRILL

320 South Broad Avenue,

New Orleans, LA 70119

(504) 603-2234 

Now, we’re going to move on to a casual neighborhood eatery that serves Southern dishes inspired by the flavors and techniques of Southeast Asia.

This grill features a varied menu that ranges from Lemongrass Fried Catfish to tumeric-spiced cracklings to Grilled Heirloom Okra.   

Nicely prepared catfish at Marjie’s Grill

One diner who lives near Marjie’s says, “This place may be described as Asian but it definitely has a Louisiana twist – especially since everything is locally sourced from the farmers and friends around this state and Mississippi. I am a big fan of the staff and prices at Marjie’s so I visit often for a delicious meal.”

MAYPOP RESTAURANT

611 O’Keefe Street,

New Orleans, LA 70113

(504) 518-6345 

You’ll find this restaurant in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. One satisfied customer describes Maypop this way. “If you’re adventurous with food, Maypop is the restaurant for you. They offer a twist to Creole food with Asian flavors. Recently, I tried rabbit for the first time and it was absolutely delicious.” 

At Maypop they look to Asia to personalize their own version of gumbo, the city’s emblematic dish. Their turmeric-roasted quail and fermented black beans define the broth.   

Delicious, soul-satisfying gumbo at the Maypop Restaurant

Another diner describes Maypop as “a great place for lunch. They offer freshly baked bread that you can top off with a special jelly. We had the crawfish étouffe ‘to share’ and the server split it for us without us having to ask.” Personally, I love this. It’s a win-win gesture that always impresses me.  

They finished their meal with drum fish in a curry sauce (this fish is similar to red snapper) – soaking up every bit of it with the bread they fell in love with and, to end her stellar review, she says, “We will definitely return for dinner.” That’s music to every owner’s ears.  

EM TRAI SANDWICH COMPANY,

2372 St. Claude Avenue,

New Orleans, LA 70117

(504) 302-7772 

This restaurant uses the excellent barbecue brisket from Central City BBQ in its soups and sandwiches. Before the owner had his own brick-and-mortar restaurant, he operated T2 Street Food across the street at St. Roch Market. (That’s the creative, striving newcomer taking chances and moving up, if there ever was one.) 

The owner takes Vietnamese food to a whole new level. He takes it even further with his fusion items like Bang Bang Shrimp Roti. One incredibly satisfied customer reports, “The pulled chicken pho is just about the only pho I will eat now. I’m ruined. And the wonton chips with crab dip? It’s absolutely decadent. (I’ll say one thing about these reviewers – if they like something, they don’t hold back: the verbiage practically bursts into flames.) 

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? New Orleans is a “walking town” – like Manhattan. For example, you can walk to the French Quarter from Rathbone Mansions in 15 minutes. Moving on it’s 12 minutes to Frenchmen Street, 6 minutes to the Port of Call restaurant (great burgers and steaks). Rest assured, you’ll eat like there’s no tomorrow.   

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

*UPDATE: Maypop Restaurant has yet to reopen due to the pandemic. Instead, check out this new local restaurant open now near Mid-City:

ROSEDALE,

801 Rosedale Drive,

New Orleans, LA 70124

(504) 309-9595 

This restaurant’s tag line is “Hard to find, easy to get to!” Nestled in the Navarre Neighborhood, located between Mid-City and Lakeview, Rosedale is owned by popular local chef Susan Spicer. The menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including house-made duck pastrami and BBQ shrimp.

A Food Walking Tour: the French Quarter

I may as well come clean and say that I have never been on a walking tour of restaurants in my entire life so this one in New Orleans really interests me. In the past, my husband, Peter and I have gone on a number of so-called food tours. These have included: the Dole pineapple plantation and plant in Hawaii where, upon tasting a fresh-cut sample, I decided that I’d never tasted the “real thing” before. Hawaii is the only place I’ve ever been where they serve steak and pineapple in restaurants – which is absolutely delicious. 

We also visited a famous yogurt plant in New Jersey that I thought was the cleanest place we had ever seen – everything gleamed and sparkled – one could literally eat off the floor. And, on the island of Barbados we got an up-close look at a rum distillery. My memory of that experience was how great it smelled – an irresistible aroma wafted through the entire place. 

TASTE YOUR WAY THROUGH THE BIG EASY 

Exploring New Orleans with a guide who is well versed in the culture of the French Quarter is a great experience for visitors or even residents of New Orleans. It means that you get a behind-the-scenes look into a number of local restaurant kitchens. It’s like hearing the back-story of a film – at times I’ve found it’s as interesting as the film itself (for example, Gone With The Wind where volumes have been written about David O. Selznick and his famous daily memos during the filming of this 1939 blockbuster).  

PLENTY OF TIPS ON WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK 

Or, as one visitor says, “I had a really good time on this tour. Our tour guide was terrific and we had some great New Orleans treats – such as alligator sausage. The food portions were generous and the tour group was very friendly.” 

The tour starts and ends in the French Quarter. You’ll meet inside at the Roux Royale, (504) 565-5272 that is located at 600 Royal Street (a three-minute walk from St. Louis Cathedral). It’s described this way by a young man, “A fun little store where we shopped before our tour – if you’re looking for a souvenir to take home that really says, ‘New Orleans’ this is it!” 

Another notes, “I love this place. It sells mostly items for the kitchen: linens, cookbooks and a million other things – many with the elegant fleur-de-lis (a stylized lily) decorative design or symbol. If you’re gift shopping for someone who likes to cook then Roux Royale is the first place you should go.” 

THE FOOD AND ITINERARY CHANGE DAILY 

This is to keep the experience fresh. Tastings may include seafood gumbo, muffuletta (a round sandwich with ham, salami, cheese and topped with an olive salad) jambalaya (rice cooked with ham, sausage, chicken or shellfish, plus herbs, spices and vegetables, namely: tomato, onion, peppers) as well Creole-style brisket.  

You may request a restaurant that you’ve wanted to visit or just explore your guide’s personal favorites. You may also purchase classic New Orleans drinks along the way. Pimm’s Cup anyone? For more information please call, 1-855-353-6634.   

A SPRITIZER 

6 parts red or white wine (3 oz.)

Sparkling water

Lemon juice 

Pour wine over ice cubes into a chilled glass. Fill with sparkling water and garnish with a lemon twist.

TWO MORE THINGS FOR YOU TO CONSIDER:  

CLICK HERE to read “Shopping for Xmas in NOLA” for five great spots where you’ll find books, games, records, souvenirs and lots more.

CLICK HERE for five drinking-and-eating spots when you’re in the mood for fun.  

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? To truly enjoy the atmosphere of New Orleans it’s wise to stay in a gracious, antebellum hotel where you can really feel part of the Deep South. We’re situated in the Treme, a lovely area with majestic oak trees that will take your breath away. Come for a visit, stay for the memories.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

What To Do in NOLA

I personally think that one-to-four hour tours are a great idea when one is visiting a new spot on this planet of ours. My husband and I have taken tours in Rome, Florence, Mexico City, Hawaii, the island of Curaçao and many other delightful spots. They serve a definite purpose if you have a limited amount of time and are in a brand new location.

For this write-up I am focusing on “Guided Tours in the French Quarter” that you may find helpful when visiting here. I have purposely included the address of each one because that’s where the tour will depart from – plus I’ve listed a phone number that you can call for more info. But before we get to the tours I’d like to give a quick overview of the Quarter. 

It’s the city’s oldest neighborhood (it’s also called Vieux Carré, or “Old Square”) and is centered on Jackson Square, which is overlooked by St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is very pedestrian-friendly, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Hard-partying Bourbon Street is infamous, but it’s definitely not the whole French Quarter – and it’s easy to avoid if it’s not for you.   

History runs deep in the Square – the Pontalba Buildings that surround Jackson Square on two sides are the oldest apartment buildings in America and the French Market is the country’s oldest public market. Now, let’s take a look at five fun tours you can take that will give you a real insight into our famous French Quarter. 

#1

TOUR: Friends of the Cabildo

ADDRESS: 523 St. Ann Street

PHONE: (504) 523-3939 

These walking tours are led by smart, funny guides who will give you a great primer on the history of the French Quarter – you’ll hear stories about some of the most-famous streets and fascinating bits about the many architectural styles you’ll see. 

The historic St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter

#2

TOUR: Royal Carriage Tours

ADDRESS: Decatur Street and Jackson Square

PHONE: (504) 943-8820 

The conductors of these mule-drawn carriage tours know their stuff. They will note the locations of celebrity homes and reveal historic tales that will impress you. Royal Carriage Tours has a very good animal welfare record and is licensed by the city. No tours if the temperature rises above 95 degrees F. 

#3

TOUR: Haunted History Tours

ADDRESS: 723 St. Peter Street

PHONE: (888) 644-6787 or (504) 861-2727 

Okay, you may think these tours are a bit “out there” but, let’s face it, they’re also fun – c’mon you’re on a holiday trip, it’s time to try something that you may have never done before. Moreover, you’ll hear a lot about the shady side of New Orleans. It’s juicy stuff! 

Just looking at this ad for Haunted History Tours scares me!!!

#4

TOUR: Magic Tours

ADDRESS: 441 Royal Street

PHONE: (504) 588-9693 

The list of tour leaders includes teachers, historians, preservationists and journalists so you won’t be disappointed. They are well informed and know how to spin a tale – plus they’ll give you great insight into The Big Easy.

#5

TOUR: American Photo Safari

ADDRESS: Jackson Sq. by St. Louis Cathedral

PHONE: (504) 298-8876 

This is a cleverly focused tour: the tour leaders don't just show you the sights – they give you lessons on how to take pictures of them as well. Explore the historic French Quarter with an insider. No more boring snapshots!

CLICK HERE to read our blog titled “An Over-the-Top Celebration in the Oaks.”

HERE’S A 2ND REMINDER: CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS takes place from November 27, 2020 and goes until January 1, 2021. Drive thru only this year! Be sure and put it on your calendar.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

*Update: American Photo Safari is currently closed. Here is another tour to check out while visiting Rathbone Mansions:

TOUR: Destination Kitchen Food Tour

ADDRESS: Meets in the heart of the French Quarter

PHONE: (855) 353-6634

Ranked #1 Food Experience in New Orleans by TripAdvisor for 2020. The 3-hour walking food tour includes 6-7 tasting from famous New Orleans Restaurants!

Let’s Celebrate the Holidays

All of the wonderful local galleries mentioned here are only a short walk from Rathbone Mansions. Come visit our historic hotel and knock out that Christmas list!

You may think that it is too soon to starting thinking about gifts for the upcoming holiday season but it’s not. However, if you’re not in the mood to buy for others – how about something for yourself? Keeping this thought in mind I am writing about six galleries in New Orleans that you my find fun and interesting to visit. Out of a total of six, there are four on Royal Street – gallery hopping has never been easier.

1.

Name: A Gallery for Fine Photos

Location: 241 Chartres Street

When I did the research for this gallery I was very impressed with it. This beautifully constructed gallery was founded in 1973 when photography was just beginning to secure a foothold in museum collections and in the art market at large. Thanks to the staunchly independent vision of the founder, Joshua Mann Pailet, it has remained a haven for photography for 47 years.

Pailet seldom went anywhere without his trusted Nikon 35mm camera, capturing who and what he saw while traveling throughout America and the world. And, with his Nikon in-hand, Pailet amassed a catalogue of over 400,000 images, as he focused on capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments that include monographs on the 1976 American Freedom Train, the 1984 World’s Fair and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.

This impressive gallery has prints such as William Henry Jackson’s early 20th-century views of New Orleans and rare images of Storyville prostitutes, made from the photographer’s original glass plates. The gallery also regularly features Herman Leonard’s shots of Duke Ellington and other jazz legends. CLICK HERE FOR  “Take the A Train” by Duke Ellington – it’s fantastic, trust me. The Duke’s smile alone is worth the price of admission.

2.

Name: Gallery Burguieres

Location: 736 Royal Street

Females can be a rara avis in the gallery world. That’s why I was interested in writing about Burguieres, an artist, designer and inventor who specializes in popular and conceptual pieces. She has shown her work in Brazil, England, France, Germany and the US. Among her most popular décor collections is “The Notebook Series” a sequence of large acrylic paintings mimicking sketches on notebook paper. Her brick-and-mortar shop – which she owns and operates with her mother Janice – opened in 2011 in the center of New Orleans’ French Quarter.

3.

Name: Hemmerling Gallery of Southern Art

Location: 733 Royal Street

Artist Bill Hemmerling is a self-taught folk artist who has incorporated wood, debris and found objects into a vital body of work. His gallery displays his originals, as well as art by other folk painters and sculptures.

He began painting in 2002 after finding a board on the side of a road during a morning jog and adorning it with some house paint he had on hand. He is famed for creating the 2005 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival poster. His work has also been on display in an art show that took place in a palace in Santa Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic.

4.

Name: Harouni Gallery

Location: 933 Royal Street

This gallery features the work of David Harouni, a native of Iran who creates artwork that shows his love for figurative painting. The finished product often has a surreal, eerie beauty. His work has been shown all over the country in private and corporate collections.

5.

Name: Michalopoulos Gallery

Location: 617 Bienville Street

The artist Sam Michalopoulos has become one of New Orleans most popular painters in recent years – in part because of his best-selling Jazz Fest posters. This gallery holds frequent openings on Friday nights. 

6.

Name: Rodrigue Studio

Location: 617 Royal Street

This gallery showcases the artwork of the late George Rodrigue and his unbelievably popular “Blue Dog” paintings. He was born and raised in Cajun Country, Louisiana. In the early 1990s his series (based on the French-Cajun loup-garou legend) catapulted him to worldwide fame. As a passionate philanthropist, Rodrigue provided art supplies to schools and offered scholarships to art schools. NOTE: A loup garou is a mythical creature that prowls the swamps around Acadiana and Greater New Orleans. He is described as having a human body and the head of a wolf or dog. Good heavens! I’m nervous just typing this!

COMING UP:

All Saints’ Day falls on Sunday, November 1, 2020 so CLICK HERE to read how it was celebrated last year.

AND DON’T FORGET: CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS takes place from November 27, 2020 and goes until January 1, 2021

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

What’s Happening in Alabama?

I know absolutely nothing about the state of Alabama so writing this blog was a wake-up call. I’d like to start with a general, overall picture and then move on to particulars. Even I knew that Alabama is known as “The Cotton State” and is located in “The Heart of Dixie.”

Said differently, it’s a little over 300 miles from New Orleans so if you’re planning to visit Dothan, Alabama for the 2020 Peanut Festival that takes place from Friday, November 6th to Sunday, November 15th, you can drop down to The Big Easy as well. Roughly half of the peanuts grown in this country come from within a 100-mile radius of Dothan. The state of Alabama has about 900 peanut farmers and is the third largest producer of peanuts in the United States.

WHO IN THE WORLD EATS BOILED PEANUTS?

Apparently a lot of people really like boiled peanuts. I think I’m put off by the word “boiled.” Apparently guys like to toss ‘em down -- hot or cold – when drinking beer. Boiled peanuts also go well with sweet tea and Coca Cola. Other favorite foods in Alabama are: Banana Pudding (this sounds delicious) and Fried Green Tomatoes.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN ALABAMA?

July is the hottest month with heat and humidity that can be overwhelming BUT don’t forget this: Alabama’s Gulf Coast is home to some of the finest beaches in the country. We’re talking about a 32-mile-long stretch of beautiful white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. (This sounds very much like the Caribbean to me – no matter how far out you swim – you can see clear to the bottom. It’s truly amazing.)

This ad appeared in the August 2020 issue of Travel & Leisure magazine – remember: Alabama has great beaches

DID I HEAR BEAR WRESTLING? YOU’RE KIDDING!

No, I’m not. Bear wrestling matches used to be a pretty big deal in Alabama. So a law was passed to end “bear exploitation” and now it’s a Class B felony. That’s the same as being charged with manslaughter, so this is a big deal. Don’t ask me for specifics – all I know is that it’s illegal to sell, purchase, possess or train a bear for bear wrestling. (This makes my skin crawl.)

ALABAMA HAS A HISTORY OF FIRSTS? CORRECT?

Yes, in 1836 Alabama was the first state to declare Christmas a legal holiday. Then on February 16, 1968 the first 911 Call in the U.S. was made in Alabama. Speaker of the House, Rankin Fite called U.S. Representative Tom Bevill at the local police station – the red phone he used is still on display at the City Hall.

Closer to home, Alabama was actually the first place to celebrate Mardi Gras. New Orleans has a history with Mardi Gras but the first celebration actually took place in Mobile, Alabama in 1703. This was just a year after the city was founded (and 15 years before New Orleans was founded).

Alabama is the first and only state to have an alcoholic beverage as its official drink. A high-quality aged moonshine whiskey (officially called Clyde May’s Alabama Style Whiskey) was designated the official “State Spirit” of Alabama by legislative resolution in 2004.

All photos appeared in an ad with the tagline “Sweet Home Alabama” that was in the Condé Nast Traveler, June 2020

And finally, the first rocket (Saturn V in 1967) that us folks on earth sent to the moon was designed in Huntsville, Alabama. Personally, I think this list is pretty impressive – no wonder Alabamians have so much hometown pride.

At Rathbone Mansions we love our Southern neighbors! Fun Fact: Huntsville, Alabama is only about a 6-hour drive from our historic hotel.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Dining Out in Style

LOVE CREOLE CUISINE?

#1 COMMANDER’S PALACE is the grande dame of classic Creole cuisine. It’s located at 1403 Washington Avenue in the Garden District. Chef Tory McPhail has a “dirt to plate within 100 miles” policy that means he strives for 90% of the restaurant’s ingredients to come from 100 miles of its back door. The chef and his team know the history of Commander’s Palace but live by the credo that “all of our best meals are still ahead of us.”

Chef Chris Lynch in the restaurant’s lush green courtyard

The white-linen dining rooms, decadent dishes and Southern hospitality offer a unique experience and menu that runs from crispy oysters to shrimp and grits. The lunch special is the 25-cent martini. Reservations are required and there is a dress code.

Dining at the Chef’s Table in Commander’s Palace kitchen

Orange Peel and Spiced Sugarcane Painted Quail – all Commander’s Palace photos are courtesy of Southern Living, April 2020

CLICK HERE to read one of our earlier blogs about Commander’s Palace.

#2 DOOKY CHASE’S RESTAURANT is where Creole cooking is a beloved heritage. Leah Chase, the longtime owner, died at the ripe old age of 96 on June 1, 2019. Since I wrote about this place in 2018 (see link below) I prefer to write about spirited, hard-working Leah herself and her long, long life. She was born in Madisonville, Louisiana and was the second oldest of 13 children. She lived in New Orleans with her aunt, graduated from a Catholic high school and married a trumpet player and bandleader named Edgar “Dooky” Chase whose parents operated a sandwich restaurant that the couple took over.

In 2005, Chase’s restaurant and home flooded during Hurricane Katrina. The chef and her husband lived in a FEMA trailer as they worked to repair the family business. They reopened 18 months after the storm and on the two-year anniversary of Katrina she hosted president George W. Bush at her restaurant. CLICK HERE for our blog on Dooky Chase’s in 2018.

#3 GAUTREAU’S is a lovely establishment you’ll find at 1728 Soniat Street. Be aware: you’ll find 1728 discreetly marking a house that’s nestled in a lush garden spot in an Uptown New Orleans neighborhood. The restaurant’s menu is both inventive and down to earth. Entrees range from sautéed cobia (fish) to roasted duck breast. Call several days in advance for reservations.

#4 CLANCY’S has been described as “a neighborhood splurge” and is located at 6100 Annunciation Street. This white tablecloth restaurant embraces Creole cuisine with joie de vivre and top-notch service. You’ll enjoy their veal with crabmeat or lobster and mushroom risotto. If you decide to “go where the locals go” dress up a bit. Reservations recommended.

#5 RESTAURANT AUGUST offers an elegant setting and presentation – it's in a converted 19th-century tobacco warehouse at 301 Tchoupitoulas Street. You’ll dine with flickering candles in what has been described as “the most aristocratic dining room in New Orleans.” The five-course, two-hour tasting menu makes local foodies weep.

Many of these restaurants are walking distance from Rathbone Mansions. We look forward to hosting you during your stay in one of our uniquely special accommodations so you can explore all the wonderful eats New Orleans has to offer!

ENJOY VEGETARIAN FARE?

#6 SNEAKY PICKLE is a no-frills yet delicious vegan diner at 4017 St. Claude Street that can hold its own against the city’s famously meat-heavy cuisine. It dishes out beet flatbreads and lots of unexpected tasty specials.

#7 SEED caters to vegetarians and vegans who can now nosh with abandon in New Orleans. This is a restaurant at 1330 Prytania Street in the Lower Garden District that offers a plant-based dining experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It also serves a variety of artfully crafted cocktails and mocktails.

#8 CARMO is a no-fuss café for creative salads, sandwiches, raw fish creations and vegetarian + vegan dishes – most with a tropical spin. Numerous fruit juices are available, too. Order at the counter. You’ll find it at 527 Julia Street.

#9 GREEN GODDESS offers decadent portions and a playful approach. Who serves South Indian pancakes and tamarind shrimp? The Goddess is at 307 Exchange Place. It has a wonderful selection of vegetarian + vegan, organic, grass fed and just delicious food. It’s down a quaint alleyway and has outdoor seating.   

#10 HANSEN’S SNO-BLIZ at 4801 Tchoupitoulas Street has been in business since 1939 and does the best snowball (shaved ice with flavored syrup) in town, e.g., Lemonade Passion Fruit. Check before you go to make sure its open.

Vegetarian vs. Vegan

Vegetarian diets exclude meat, poultry, game, fish and shellfish. Certain types of vegetarians also exclude eggs, dairy or other animal products.

A Vegan diet can be viewed as the strictest form of vegetarianism. They differ in their beliefs regarding the use of animals by humans -- some vegetarians may consume animal-derived products, vegans do not.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

The Past 123 Years in NoLA

It’s often said that there is no other city in America that’s like New Orleans. Sounds good – but I think “like no other city in the world” is closer to the truth. For this reason, I’d like to go back 123 years for a quick overview of New Orleans – a city that’s had an amazing history with many ups and downs since 1897. I purposely made a list of people, places and events that were of interest to me – and I trust – Rathbone Mansions readers.

Taking a carriage ride in the French Quarter

Let’s start with the year 1897 when Storyville, an infamous red-light district was established and remained in New Orleans until 1917. The brothels and saloons of Storyville may be gone now, but the music they played lives on in the nightclubs of the French Quarter. In 1901, Louis Armstrong was born on August 4th in a poverty-ridden section of New Orleans that was called “The Battlefield.” He is considered one of the most influential artists in jazz history. His voice became raspy due to a prolonged cold – during which he kept singing. He had two surgeries in the thirties to repair the damage. Both failed.

A yellow fever outbreak in 1905 prompted a huge public health response: all standing water was drained or sealed. Yellow fever is caused by a virus and is spread by an infected mosquito. Today, it is still found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. On a more positive note let’s look at 1906 when the muffuletta (muf-fu-let-ta) sandwich was invented at Central Grocery located at 923 Decatur Street in the middle of the French Quarter. This is an old-fashioned grocery store that is now operated by the third generation of this Italian family. CLICK HERE to read how the muffuletta is made.

Now we’ll jump 30 years to 1936 when the French Quarter was an old and crumbling district where almost all of its buildings dated from before the Civil War. A concerted effort was made to preserve this unique architecture and now the Quarter is known as one of the oldest restored neighborhoods in the entire country. In 1955 Fats Domino (who was born and raised in New Orleans) recorded ”Ain’t That a Shame” followed by “Blueberry Hill” a year later – this ended up being his biggest hit. In September 1965 Hurricane Betsy, a powerful Category 3 storm, hit New Orleans – this resulted in the construction of a massive flood-protection system that held for 40 years – until the day it didn’t. You know what’s coming. Keep reading.

In 1970 the innovative Jazz Fest was held for the first time. It began with a midnight concert on a riverboat. Only 350 people bought the $3.00 ticket. Now it generates roughly $3 million each year for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation. 1987 was the year that the Saints posted their first winning season since joining the NFL (National Football League) in 1967. To read more about the Saints and their charismatic female owner CLICK HERE.

The year 2005 was one that none of us will ever forget. The storm surge following Hurricane Katrina flooded 80% of New Orleans. We were all glued to our TVs in New York as we watched with horror as helicopters flew over the city to rescue hundreds who were standing on rooftops and waving for help. This was a Category 5 hurricane that caused $125 billion in damages and over 1,200 deaths. It was an apocalyptic scene. The Saints won the Superbowl in 2010 and New Orleans residents went completely bonkers; they simply couldn’t believe it.

The French Quarter as seen from up above

Wrapping up, a census was taken and revealed that the population in 2011 had dropped by 29% since the year 2000. Then in 2015 New Orleans enforced a noise and smoking ban. Howls went up on all sides. And here we are in 2020 with the big finale: The coronavirus pandemic that is, according to one scribe, “like riding a barrel over Niagara Falls.” The jury is still out.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick  

Six Small Towns in Kentucky

At Rathbone Mansions we appreciate the beauty, charm and diversity found in New Orleans, Louisiana and all over the South. Many of our guests enjoy exploring the city of New Orleans from the comfort of our historic hotel as well as areas all over the south to experience what each unique spot has to offer. Our blog highlights many of these stunning places so you can design the best trip to suit your needs.

This part of the American South is rich in history and full of gracious charm. Overall, the “Bluegrass State” as it’s called, is home to some of the most interesting towns in the entire U.S. From what’s known as Bardstown, “The “Bourbon Capital of the World,” to arty communities such as Berea.

1. Bardstown: This picturesque town of 13,164 friendly folks is located in the heart of Kentucky’s bluegrass region, where distilling is definitely a fine art. You’ll find ten distilleries within 16 minutes of downtown Bardstown – some date back to 1776. Be sure and pay a visit. This awesome history and tradition is celebrated every fall with the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival. 

This is a drink called “Black Dog” that I found in The New York Bartender’s Guide. It’s made with 3 oz. of bourbon, 1 oz. of dry vermouth and a 1/2 oz. of blackberry brandy. Pour over ice and stir.

The town of Bardstown is also home to “My Old Kentucky State Park” in honor of Stephen Foster – who wrote the state’s national anthem in 1852. It can be heard every year when sung by the crowd at the Kentucky Derby. Be sure to explore the downtown area of Bardstown: it’s a mix of historic buildings, boutiques and great restaurants. Louisville is only 35 miles away.  

2. Berea: You’ll find this spot nestled in the outskirts of Bluegrass Country or, just 40 miles south of Lexington. And guess what? Berea is totally dry. The nearest town that allows purchases of alcohol is Richmond. Berea is home to painters, musicians and weavers as well as Berea College, a liberal arts school founded in 1855 – the first interracial and coeducational school in the South.

And while we’re on the subject, there’s a restaurant across from the school that gets raves. Take note, “We love eating at Papaleno’s restaurant – there’s something for everyone to eat – including kids.” Another satisfied diner says, “The garlic bread alone is worth a trip here.” They serve beer (the town is not as dry as I thought) and you can get refills of soda (that’s a new one for me).

3. Harrodsburg: This town has a population of 8,492 (somewhat smaller than Berea with 15,787). Harrodsburg’s claim to fame is that it’s the oldest city in Kentucky. If you’re looking for a new experience check out the Black Watch Alpaca Farm that features prize-winning Huacaya alpacas. (I thought they only existed in the Andes of Southern Peru!)

You can also go canoeing and kayaking on the Chaplin River. For more fun take the Dixie Belle riverboat cruise on the Kentucky River with Captain Bruce who is entertaining and knowledgeable. Tickets are sold at the Shaker Village Welcome Center on the day of the cruise. Lexington is a short 29 miles away by car – and it’s 60 miles to Louisville.

An ad for the state of Kentucky that appeared in the May 2020 issue of the Smithsonian magazine

4. Paducah: This is a city of 24,850 residents that is known as Quilt City USA. It is also home to The National Quilt Museum and the annual Quilt Week Festival. Quilters and art lovers from all 50 states and over 40 countries visit the Quilt Museum in the average year. The museum rotates their exhibits so every time you visit there will be something new.

Since I was writing about Paducah, Kentucky I decided to send away for their Visitors Guide – it’s very good. Here’s the info: Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau, 128 Broadway, Paducah, Kentucky 42001 – 1-800-PADUCAH – www.paducah.travel

There are 20 blocks of a picturesque downtown district to explore in this town that was settled in 1821 and is near the Tennessee border. Paducah is a river town because it was built where the Ohio and Tennessee rivers meet. When you come, don’t forget to take a stroll on Paducah’s scenic riverwalk.

Shots of quilting, tours & trails, festivals & annual events – courtesy of the Paducah Visitors Guide

5. Danville: This historic town, that sports a population of 16,804, is in the geographic center of Kentucky. It has two well-known museums: (1) The McDowell Museum that honors surgeon Ephraim McDowell, the first physician to perform a successful abdominal surgery and (2) The Dollhouse Museum that showcases over 200 miniature buildings in remarkable detail and features tiny people at work and play.

There’s also Danville’s Constitution Square that is the location of the first post office built west of the Alleghany Mountains. You can also be adventurous here and try Tut’s, an Egyptian restaurant that one patron described as “a surprising café where the food is made fresh every day and is really good.” Another says, “We love Mediterranean food and this place is a winner!”

6. Glasgow: Now, we’ll hop from Egypt to Scotland! The south central Kentucky town of Glasgow was founded in 1799 and is named after the Scottish birthplace of one of its early settlers. Once a year this town of 14,424 folks holds the Glasgow Highland Games – they have been doing this since 1986 (the first Highland Games in the United States took place in New York in 1836).

This small, peaceful town is a 25-minute drive via State Highway 2189 to Mammoth Cave National Park. To read our recent write-up about this fascinating spot please CLICK HERE.

CLICK HERE to listen to a song about Kentucky sung by Travis Tritt. 

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

This Female Chef Rocks

I believe that the year 2020 will go down in history as the “time we really thought about cooking for ourselves.” Shopping for groceries whether online or in person has suddenly taken much more effort than we’ve done in the past. I actually showed up at 8:20 am at Trader Joe’s to make sure I could get in and out fast. Of course it worked – but I’ve never shopped for milk, veggies and yogurt at that hour in my entire life. Yep, we were in a new era, no doubt about it!

Since I live on Park Avenue in the thirties there are lots of restaurants nearby – who were not allowed to open during the pandemic but jumped right in and said, “We’re here, just give us a call for takeout.”  And many residents decided this was an excellent solution to “Hey, what’s for dinner?” There were so many takeouts in my building that a huge table was set up in the lobby just to hold all the dinner bags that came flooding in from around 6:30 pm until whenever – no delivery guys were allowed to go in past the front desk. Usually the resident was alerted via phone and dinner was taken up to their apartment.

Takeout isn’t for me: I like to cook and know exactly what I’m eating. That said I was intrigued by a write-up written by Yasmin Gagne titled “Recipe for Success” in the June 2020 issue of Fast Company magazine. The subject was about the star chef Alison Roman, 34. Since I had never heard of her I quickly read the piece and found she has a column in the New York Times every other week that is very popular.

Smart, creative chef and author, Alison Roman out shopping

Roman’s second cookbook, Nothing Fancy, was a bestseller after its release in October 2019. Apparently, it’s written with a conversational tone that’s directed towards millennials (ages 22 to 38) who are coping with tight budgets and, for the most part – lilliputian kitchens – that’s a knee-jerk description, but it’s pretty accurate. This author has an unfussy take on cooking and entertaining that many people love.

A SELF-TAUGHT LOS ANGELES NATIVE: Roman left college at age 19 for a job in that city’s Michelin-starred restaurant named Sona. “I just walked in and asked for a job,” she says. Later she moved to New York and worked at the bakery chain Milk Bar. “Any time we had to figure something out, we just figured it out,” she says. She still does this – by creating her own recipes and making them multiple times before deciding they’re right. “No matter where you live, or what kind of grocery store you have access to, or what size kitchen you have, you can still make really great food.” Hallelujah! I’ve never seen this in print before but I’ve always believed it.

Photos courtesy of Fast Company

SHE PUTS HERSELF IN THE NOVICE COOK’S SHOES: “I always ask myself, ‘Is somebody going to do this at home, or are we just telling them that’s what they should be doing?’” Roman says she won’t publish recipes if  they end up being complicated. For Thanksgiving 2019 she gave readers an extremely useful rundown on how to prep for this meal (including going shopping) in only three days. Hallelujah again!

I’ve come across recipes that have so many ingredients (some I’ve never heard of) that it would take me a week of shopping before I could even think about making the recipe – that invariably – has 10 or 12 steps. This makes it totally daunting. I don’t have that kind of patience or time.

ROMAN DOESN’T FOLLOW OTHER CHEFS: “But I answer reader’s questions if they’re having trouble,” she says. “I really want to teach them how to cook.”

It’s time to end -- with a third Hallelujah!   

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

These Ducks Love Memphis!

So far 2020 has been a really tough year so I’ve decided to lighten things up a bit with a fun story I found in the April 2020 issue of Southern Living. Brace yourself. It’s about the ducks (yes, you read that correctly) in the Peabody Memphis Hotel.

The Peabody Memphis hotel where no one ducks out of two shows a day

I have never read anything remotely like this in all my years as a researcher, copywriter, author and blogger so here goes. The talented writer of this piece, Elizabeth Passarella tells a great tale. “If you’ve ever been to the Peabody (or read anything about it) you’ll know that every morning a passel of live ducks descends from their rooftop home to the lobby via elevator.”

“Then, to the tune of John Philip Sousa’s ‘King Cotton’ march, the ducks strut down a red carpet and politely (because they are good Southern birds) take turns hopping up the tiny steps into the marble fountain where they swim all day. Around the cocktail hour they hop back out, waggle their tail feathers to get the last drop of water off and head back into the elevator.” (If you’re not laughing you don’t have a pulse.)

These ducks are big believers in “The Show Must Go On”

Now Passarella jumps back 31 years to 1989 when she was 12-years-old and a member of the dance company: Ballet Memphis. A group of the dancers who were all around the same age, ability and height were asked to put on a show and “play the ducks.” They were all fitted for mallard costumes with green heads as they walked out single file with their hands on their hips – to look like wings.

They performed this way: jump, wiggle, wiggle – then jump, wiggle, wiggle – while shaking their heavily padded tushes in the direction of the audience. Everyone collapsed with laughter! The headline in the local paper the next day read, “Ducks Steal Show at Memphis Ballet.”

CLICK HERE to listen to John Philip Sousa’s “King Cotton” march performed by the U.S. Marine Band.

THREE “BESTS” FOR LOUISIANA

In the April 2020 issue of Southern Living magazine, the city of New Orleans appeared three times for (a) the best BBQ joint, (b) the best bar and (c) the best dive bar. Let’s take a look.

THE JOINT (best BBQ) can be found at 701 Mazant Street and is described as a hidden gem in the Bywater neighborhood. One happy diner says, “Love their superb-tasting pink, rare ribs, beautifully cooked with that attractive grilled look on the outside – delicious beyond compare.” Another notes that “the vibe is super casual and the staff is great.”

For great food it’s “The Joint” in Bywater – smoked chaurice pork sausage studded with jalapeños and garlic offers a Cajun touch

Photos courtesy of Southern Living magazine

SAINT GERMAIN (best bar) is also in Bywater – at 3054 St. Claude Avenue. It’s known as a “sparkling neighborhood gem.” This French wine bar and bistro is described this way by one patron, “My wife and I ate here two weeks ago and I’m still thinking about it. The shrimp wrapped in eggplant appetizer was truly amazing.”

PORT OF CALL (best dive bar) is at 838 Esplanade Avenue or, at the edge of the French Quarter. You’ll find great burgers at reasonable prices. According to one out-of-town visitor “the mushroom cheeseburgers are really outstanding. Will keep coming back when in town.” He also praises the bacon bits and chives: free and plentiful. Located only 3 blocks from Rathbone Mansions!

THE ANNUAL NEW ORLEANS FILM FESTIVAL: OCTOBER 16 TO 23rd, 2020

CLICK HERE TO READ about the 2019 New Orleans Film Festival and the 2019 Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival AND CLICK TO READ MORE about The Krewe of Boo, Halloween in New Orleans and The Voodoo Music + Art Experience (all in 2019).

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Seven Parks to Visit in the South

At Rathbone Mansions we appreciate green spaces all over the South. For a list of parks near the hotel, CLICK HERE. For road trip ideas, keep reading!

Since so many of us have stayed put during the nation’s “lockdown” period, I think it may be a good idea to get out and see what nature has to offer. Here’s a list of seven parks where you and your friends and family can enjoy some of the best natural beauty the south has to offer.

There’s nothing like the healing power of the great outdoors

I. Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina/Tennessee) 

This park is spread over the North Carolina/Tennessee border and offers over 500,000 acres of Southern Appalachian natural beauty, wildlife and culture. It has over 800 miles of trails and an estimated 1,500 black bears. You can stop at scenic spots such as Mount Le Conte, which is the third-highest peak in the park.

It’s popular because it’s accessible from major cities such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Asheville, Knoxville and Nashville. In mid-September the trees start to change from green to bright oranges, yellows and reds.  

II. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

You’ll be able to enjoy 5,550 acres of hilly forest, scenic hiking trails and, best of all, thermal hot springs – where the park gets its name. Since the mid-19th century, bathhouses have been a staple here. You can bathe in the hot spring water at Buckstaff Baths, which has operated in the park for over 100 years.

Have you heard? Swimming works every single major muscle group in your body. Go for it!

This park is one of Arkansas’ best-kept secrets. It’s as picturesque today as when it was launched in 1832 and predates Yellowstone (1872), which is traditionally recognized as the country’s first national park.

III. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

In the hilly terrain of south central Kentucky you’ll find Mammoth Cave National Park. It has over 400 miles of explored passages and is the longest known cave system in the world. There is no entrance fee to the park. However, fees are required for tours and camping. For your first visit, the Historic Tour or the Domes and Dripstones Tour are good options.

Allow at least three hours to take a tour and see exhibits in the Visitors’ Center. If you enjoy nature hikes you can easily spend a full day or more at Mammoth Cave National Park.

IV. Tallulah Gorge State Park (Georgia)

This is undoubtedly one of the most stunning river canyons in the southern states. The beautiful rugged terrain of Tullulah Gorge State Park offers spellbinding waterfalls, pools and the Tallulah River. The Hurricane Bridge, a swaying suspension bridge, hovers 80 ft. above the rocky gorge and offers breathtaking views of the park.

This gorge is located 90 miles from Atlanta and, if you drive you can park close to the Visitors’ Center – it is only a short walk from there to the falls. This picturesque canyon is two miles long and nearly 1,000 ft. deep.

V. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

When you see the rugged mountains, serene hollows and beautiful waterfalls of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park it’s hard to believe that Washington D.C. is less than 100 miles away. But, rest assured, this Blue Ridge Mountain wilderness is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The Skyline Drive runs the entire length of the park.

For fall foliage weekends – now, through October – you can do the entire length of the Skyline Drive in about three hours without stopping. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle.

VI. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

This is one of the country’s newest national parks. It is spread over 25,000 acres. Whether you are coming for a short stroll on the boardwalk or taking a canoe trip down Cedar Creek this park has a variety of ways for you to enjoy your visit. Come and explore the splendor of one of the oldest and tallest forests east of the Mississippi.

The entire boardwalk trail is wood and is easy to walk. You’ll see a wide diversity of trees and plant life. This park is about 20 miles south of Columbia, South Carolina and roughly 120 miles northwest of Charleston.

Walking is one of the best ways to exercise – it costs nothing and makes one feel great

VII. Everglades National Park (Florida)

An awe-inspiring array of wildlife call the Everglades National Park home – there’s everything from wading birds such as great egrets and wood storks to Florida panthers and American alligators. This park is 1.5 million acres of wetland and offers a wide range of activities: you can go camping, ride a bike, paddle a canoe, hike a trail, climb a tower or just watch a sunset.

There is a per person fee when one comes by bike or walking and enters at the main entrance – this is good for seven consecutive days. Individuals 16-years-old and younger are admitted free. Kids love this park!

Shaun Nelson-Henrick