Christa & John
Around New Orleans
Studio Be
An immersive, powerful, black-owned art exhibition. From the artist himself, "The final installment of the “BE” series and my first solo show as a visual artist. Studio BE is a 35,000 sq ft warehouse in the bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, LA. My solo show “Ephemeral Eternal” is a calumniation of everything I learned from Project BE and Exhibit BE as well as exploring my truth as an artist." #StudioBE #EphemeralEternal"
Dooky Chase Restaurant
In a word, legendary! New Orleans' only African American establishment featured in the Negro Motorist Green Book that's still in operation today. It was also a common gathering place for Civil Rights Movement leaders in the 60's. And the restaurant's matriarch who recently passed away, Leah Chase, was the real life inspiration for Tiana in The Princess and the Frog.
Bywater American Bistro
Probably Christa's favorite in New Orleans. Owned and operated by Nina Compton. The sommelier, Rosie, is a total gem and will help you find the perfect bottle of wine within your budget.
Compère Lapin
Another Nina Compton concept, this one is her flagship and is focused on traditional Creole and Caribbean cuisine.
Neyow's Creole Café
Classic cajun - a local favorite.
Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge
Note - this is not for everyone. Kermit is a cultural and musical pillar in the Treme neighborhood, and runs this bar. It's rough around the edges, but it is a true representation of the neighborhood and the musical giants that call it home.
Shaya
Tired of cajun? This is a great place in the Garden District serving up modern Israeli food. Would recommend for a nicer dinner or brunch. We've seen Steph Curry there, it was cool. But honestly, run don't walk and order a bunch of pita and dips and hummus. SO. GOOD.
St. Roch Market New Orleans
A fun food hall! It has several vendors, plus bar, and many of the vendors are in the testing phase of their concepts. Great for a group or if you can't decide on a cuisine. :)
Cleo's
Late night mediterranean - Christa will always ask for this past midnight and after a few drinks. There's a bigger version now closer to the Quarter, but go to their old shop - more like a bodega, and better people watching.
Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits
This is a crowd favorite. It's a wine store/restaurant with a backyard that has live music every day. You may still need a reservation, and we are going here for brunch after the wedding, but definitely try to go by here!
Donald Link Concepts - Cochon, Herbsaint, Peche, Gianna, or Butcher
Go to at least one of these while you're in town. You can't go wrong!
Bayona
They make a duck peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Ridiculous, but amazing. This is ran by Susan Spicer, who was said to be the inspiration for one of the characters in the HBO series, Treme. But honestly, this place is amazing for brunch.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
One of our favorite po boys spots.
Turkey and the Wolf
The very best sandwiches. Try the collard green reuben!
Ms. Mae's The Club
Open 24/7. Cheapest drinks in NOLA - Japanese whiskey for $5! This is a lively place -- we always have a good time here.
Hi-Ho Lounge
A really fun spot with great live music -- very eclectic. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth the trip!