THE ORTEGO SHOW
About Town
Commander's Palace
James Beard's galore. We highly recommend reservations for this New Orleans staple. Don't forget to read up on Ella Brennan, the restaurateur behind Commander's (it's a good read): https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/27/dining/ella-brennan-new-orleans-restaurants.html
Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits
"NOLA's Back Yard Party" with live music 7 nights a week in the Bywater. Bacchanal may be off the beaten path but it is well worth the effort. Doted for it's James Beard assortment of wines purchased by the bottle in the rustic store-front upon entering, Bacchanal is a *must* for us every time we visit. Ladies: wear wedges or flats as the rocky ground is sure to tear up heels.
Atchafalaya
If you're in to bloody marys - this is your brunch spot. The vast bloody mary bar and delectable eats make this place a must-try!
Cafe Du Monde
Whether or you're a first timer to NOLA or just have a soft spot for beignets, don't leave NOLA without satisfying your sweet tooth with this old time go-to.
Carousel Bar
Don't skip out on a cocktail at the well-known revolving carousel bar in the heart of the French Quarter. Different artists will pop in on occasion (for instance: Billy Joel).
21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane
A family favorite! Unbeatable craft cocktails in an intimate setting in the French Quarter!
The Sazerac Bar
Huey P. Long "The Kingfish", a Senator & candidate for U.S. President during the Great Depression, made a home for himself at the Sazerac Bar which lies inside the Roosevelt Hotel. It's a piece of New Orleans history, one most certainly worth exploring. Here's some pre-trip reading for some background: https://www.nola.com/dining/index.ssf/2016/06/the_bullet_in_the_sazerac_bar.html
Hot Tin
A rooftop bar with a view. The best in the city, in fact- most certainly a sight worth seeing!
Le Bon Temps Roule
In town on Thursday? Checkout Soul Rebels Brass Band @ Le Bon Temps. Undoubtedly a dive bar - one with great music. Soul Rebels was our very first discovered mutual interest and our first adventure upon meeting!
WWII Museum
If you're a U.S. history buff, this museum is your spot! Wear comfy shoes, there's no speeding through this one as there's so much material to see!
Frenchmen Street
Don't leave New Orleans without cruising through Frenchman Street. A true, authentic, New Orleans affair with an abundance of live music venues and options. Our favorites include: The Blue Nile, DBA, Snug Harbor and Apple Barrel. Often times the street performers take the cake!
The French Market
The oldest market of its kind in the U.S., beginning just behind Cafe Du Monde, a stroll through the French Market to check out the wide array of artisans is a breezy cool way to spend some time during the day.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Come to New Orleans and can't leave without a Po Boy? They've got the best one in town.
Pat O'Brien's
This dazzling dueling piano bar sits in the heart of the French Quarter and takes requests from its patrons which provides for some great music, hilarious people watching, and an evening of solid entertainment.
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Built between 1722 & 1732, by Nicolas Touze, it is reputed to be the oldest structure used as a bar in the United States. This old hangout has been around for a while - and for good reason.
City Park
Fifty percent larger than Central Park in New York, there's no shortage of activities and gorgeous sites to see in City Park. Check out the New Orleans Museum of Art, the botanical gardens or our favorite - the sculpture garden!
Magazine Street
Don't miss a trip to the ever-charming Magazine Street. The street is equipped with an array of fabulous shopping, the best pho we've ever had (at Lilly's Cafe), and if you're in need of a pick-me-up swing through Hi Volt for some delicious coffee.
Pêche Seafood Grill
If you're craving seafood - this is your place. The raw bar and the whole fish option are Aldon's favorites, but you truly can't go wrong at Peche!
Barrel Proof
While the food is fabulous, we recommend stopping in for speciality cocktails. Happy hour daily from 4-6P. 1/2 off well spirits and draft beers and $5 margaritas, daiquiris, and/or old fashioneds!
St. Roch Market New Orleans
St. Roch Market is a chef-centric food hall featuring a thoughtfully-curated mix of local food and beverage talent. They offer 11 exciting dining options all centered around their award-winning craft cocktail bar, The Mayhaw.
Willa Jean
Best for brunch. An adorable hotspot with no shortage of yummy food!