Notes From The Field

GIS Food & Drinks: New Orleans Hot Spots

Thursday, December 11, 2008

by Heather Mueller

"Indulge, Savor and Celebrate" News Orleans during the Golf Industry Show

New Orleans oozes with character—from the eclectic mix of passer-bys that roam the French Quarter during the day, to the eerie yet charming street performers that meld into the nightly crowds of costumed and bead-drenched tourists near Bourbon Street.

So many legendary locales lie along the cobble-stoned streets, each ready to welcome you to dine, drink and lose yourself in the musical rhythms.

But if it will be your first time to the area, like it was mine, you'll definitely have a hard time navigating your way through the glaring lights, festive music and alluring (yet sometimes overwhelming) smells that stimulate every sense as you stroll the sidewalk.

To help you on your quest for fun times and delicious eats, I've jotted down a few of my favorite spots that are worth visiting.

Photos: Courtesy of the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau

BASF T&O's "Best of" Dinning and Bars

If you've got a craving for great food without all the frill, visit Acme Oyster House, http://www.acmeoyster.com/. A local favorite since 1910, Acme serves up the area's best raw and grilled oysters, shrimp, Po Boys and gumbo. A come-as-you-are joint, Acme has fast, knowledgeable service. Try a local beer by the name of Abita—their Turbo Dog brew is a flavorful dark brown ale served from the tap. Food ranges in about $6-13 in price.

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop and Bar resides in the oldest building in the Quarter, dating back to the 1770s. It's a bit of challenge to find because unlike most bars in the area—there are no bold signs flashing or scantly-dressed employees to lure you in.

According to legend, privateer brothers Pierre and Jean Lafitte used the bar as a front for their wealth from lucrative trade in contraband and possibly slaves captured at sea.

The building risked demolition caused by deterioration, but was rescued in the 1940s and is recognized as a historically significant building.

When I first walked through the doors, I was confused about where to step and where to find the bar—because the small interior is lit entirely by just a few table-top candles! But once my eyes adjusted, I saw a cozy mix of old wooden tables, a rustic piano in the corner and a nicely stocked bar.

Laffite's is rumored to be haunted and it definitely carries that vibe well. The dank atmosphere seems to show even living patrons in a near ghostly light. Cozy up to the brick and plastered walls for a close look at the art work. You'll find genuine photos of celebrity guests. And ask the bartenders to tell you a tale or two about close encounters of the ghostly kind including sliding glasses, cold chills and creaking floors. Overall, it's a great spot to listen to off-key but entertaining piano and jazz singers, tell stories with friends and share laughs over drinks.

Lafitte's is located at 941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116; (504) 522-9377.