New Orleans Creole Revival

“The Big Easy” is open for business

While much of the city and its outlying parishes were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina back in August of 2005, many of the city's businesses have undergone major repairs and have re-opened their doors for business. As of September 2006, over 1000 dining establishments had reopened and many of the city's world renowned live music venues are back with veteran musicians playing nightly.

If you're looking to "pass a good time" like they say in The Birthplace of Jazz, New Orleans is once again the place.

Bring Your Appetite

New Orleans is among the top 3 food destinations in the world. Heavy on the spices and not the best place to start a diet, the city offers great eats in every price range. Some of the best:
Commander’s Palace – Upscale dining in the Garden District. Has received the James Beard Lifetime Outstanding Restaurant designation.
Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse – Renowned steakhouse that ages and butchers its own U.S.D.A. prime beef.
Restaurant August – French cuisine in a fine dining atmosphere. Only the freshest of ingredients are served in this historic space.
Acme Oyster House – A moderately priced New Orleans classic, serving up salty, fresh from the sea oysters for almost 100 years.
Arnaud’s – Serves up an excellent jazz brunch on Sundays in the French Quarter with a roaming Dixieland Jazz trio.
Café du Monde – The world famous original location has been serving up coffee and beignets since 1862.
Johnny’s Po–Boys – A locals’ favorite for the real thing since 1950 and a must visit at 511 St. Louis Street (504) 524-8129

The birthplace of jazz over a century ago, New Orleans prides itself on the fact that there is a party going on seven nights a week. Just follow your ears down any street in The Quarter and you're sure to find something you like. Just a couple of the many choices:
Preservation Hall – A New Orleans Jazz sanctuary for 45 years with veteran musicians.
Palm Court – A different jazz band plays every night they’re open, and their food is nothing to scoff at.

Need more information? Visit Experience New Orleans.

Contributed by Jennifer Bennett.