NEW ORLEANS — If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local flavor of New Orleans during Super Bowl week, there is an abundance of options both within and beyond the city center.
Streetcars can conveniently transport you to popular areas like Uptown, Mid-City, or City Park. You can also take a ferry ride across the Mississippi River to Algiers Point. A quick drive will get you to Esplanade Ridge, where you can browse the shops and dine at eateries on Magazine Street or Metairie Road, or savor seafood at local spots in Bucktown along Lake Pontchartrain’s shore.
In the Lakeview neighborhood, you can experience the culinary delights crafted by chef Susan Spicer. Spicer, known for her Louisiana-inspired cuisine, has catered to Super Bowl host cities nationwide over her 30-year career and is participating once again in her hometown. For those eager to enjoy Spicer’s dishes, a visit to Rosedale Restaurant is a must.
While Spicer appreciates the historical significance and attractions of the French Quarter and downtown areas, she encourages visitors to venture beyond those popular spots. “There’s a lot to discover if you just explore a little bit,” she remarks, pointing out the vibrant culture present in other neighborhoods.
Political commentator James Carville, also a Louisiana native and New Orleans resident, urges newcomers not to feel guilty about visiting the French Quarter. He highlights the legendary Friday lunch at Galatoire’s as a must-do experience.
For those intrigued by off-the-beaten-path options, consider these neighborhood favorites:
— **Rosedale**: This restaurant epitomizes the neighborhood dining scene in New Orleans, where culinary excellence is prioritized above tourist appeal. With a relaxed atmosphere, it offers unique creations like duck pastrami sandwiches and cochon de lait po’boys, all meticulously prepared with high-quality ingredients.
— **Clancy’s**: Close to Audubon Park, this establishment is a favorite among local influencers and even celebrities such as John Goodman and members of the Manning family. Despite the white-tablecloth dining experience and waiters in tuxedos, the atmosphere remains lively and casual, with patrons frequently mingling across tables.
— **Commander’s Palace**: Located in a historic building facing Lafayette Cemetery in the Garden District, this iconic restaurant boasts a roster of chefs who have achieved culinary fame, including Emeril Lagasse.
Other noteworthy dining options in various neighborhoods include: Gautreau’s, La Petite Grocery, Brigtsen’s, Mr. John’s, and Jacque-Imo’s in Uptown; Cafe Degas, Mandina’s, and Liuzza’s in Mid-City; Tana in Old Metairie; Station 6 in Bucktown; Rizutto’s in Lakeview; and N7, situated near the Bywater Historic District.
No trip to New Orleans is complete without indulging in a po’boy — a culinary staple. Some of the finest spots for this local delicacy include:
— **Domilise’s**, **Tracey’s**, and **Mahony’s** in Uptown.
— **Parkway Bakery** and **Liuzza’s by the Track** in Mid-City, the latter famous for its barbecue shrimp po’boy.
— **R&O’s** in Bucktown/Lakeview, known for its slow-cooked roast beef, often referred to as “debris” due to its tender texture.
In addition, a number of takeout seafood joints are renowned for their shrimp, oyster, and catfish po’boys, as well as seasonal soft-shell crab. Spicer herself recommends getting oyster po’boys at Zimmer’s Seafood in the Gentilly area.
As for dessert, you have some delightful options:
— **Angelo Brocato**: This cherished Mid-City institution serves some of the best gelato and Italian pastries in the region. Following a renovation in honor of its 100-year anniversary, the establishment became a local favorite again after being impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
— **Creole Creamery**: A well-loved ice cream shop located on Prytania Street in Uptown.
— **Sucre**: Also in Uptown, this spot specializes in French pastries and gelato.
Beignets are another local treat worth trying. While *Cafe Du Monde* is famous for its beignets, there is an additional location next to the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park. The *Morning Call*, a historic competitor of Cafe Du Monde, also offers beignets at its location near the Cemetery branch of the Canal streetcar line.
During cocktail hour, locals indulge in renowned recipes like the Sazerac or Ramos Gin Fizz, which originated in New Orleans.
— **The Columns Hotel**: This transformed mansion provides charming outdoor seating under sprawling live oaks, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a drink while watching streetcars pass by.
— **Hot Tin**: Perched atop the Pontchartrain Hotel, this rooftop bar affords breathtaking views of the New Orleans skyline from the Superdome to the Crescent City Connection bridge.
— **Paradise Lounge**: Nestled within the Hotel St. Vincent on Magazine Street, the inviting ambiance, featuring dark woods and tropical décor, is perfect for friends to gather for a drink.
— **Cure**: Located along the bustling Freret Street, this establishment is devoted to artisanal cocktails.
— **Jewel of the South**: A newer addition that is receiving accolades for its innovative cocktails, situated near the edge of the French Quarter.
For live music enthusiasts, Frenchman Street offers a range of venues featuring traditional and contemporary jazz, brass, blues, and funk.
— **Snug Harbor**: A sophisticated jazz venue that showcases a variety of performances.
— **DBA** and **The Spotted Cat**: Located adjacent to one another, these clubs provide numerous live music options.
— **Tipitinas**: This esteemed music venue is situated Uptown and is known for hosting renowned local artists and national touring acts.
For a more intimate music setting, visit **Maple Leaf** on Oak Street, **Dos Jefes** on Tchoupitoulas Street, or **Bacchanal**, a rustic wine shop in the Bywater that features outdoor performances.
Lastly, some popular attractions include Audubon Park and City Park.
These scenic public parks are adorned with majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss, along with magnolia trees and lush vegetation, attracting joggers and birdwatchers alike.
Both parks also house a range of attractions, like Audubon’s zoo and City Park’s New Orleans Museum of Art, Sculpture Garden, paddle boats, and Children’s Museum. Additionally, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the World War II Museum are also well-loved by locals.
Local insights: A truly exceptional experience in New Orleans goes beyond the French Quarter
