September 13, 2010
New Orleans Beyond Bourbon
As a top travel destination year-in and year-out, New Orleans, L.A., is known for the French Quarter, Mardi Gras, the birthplace of jazz, creole cuisine, and above all one of the most well known streets in the world, Rou Bourbon. While any trip to New Orleans is not complete without a stroll down Bourbon Street there is much more to be discovered just around the corner and in the neighborhoods that surround the French Quarter. So venture a little bit further beyond Bourbon and discover the food and music at the heart and soul of the city.
Situated in the southeastern part of the French Quarter near the French Market on Decatur Street is “where the not-so-elite meet to eat” according to the
Zagat Review. Coop’s Place, serving locals since 1983, is best described as a small hole in the wall dive bar, leading most to pass by this gem of a restaurant. As the old adage goes, do not judge a book by its cover as Coop’s Place is widely known as the place to go for the best jambalaya or fried chicken in the city. With a full menu featuring all of the Cajun and Creole classics and a true down to earth atmosphere, Coop’s Place is the perfect spot to experience the people and food of New Orleans without the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street.
Another way to experience New Orleans with the locals is by visiting the Foubourg Marigny neighborhood. Also known just as the Marigny, the bohemian neighborhood is infested with exotic restaurants, distinctive architecture, and a multitude of bars with live music. Every night Frenchmen Street comes alive as locals pour into the street to enjoy the sounds of Reggae, Latin, Blues and of course jazz at one of the many quaint clubs. Leave the neon lights of Bourbon behind with a short trip to the Marigny and see why the locals spend their time in this authentic neighborhood.
To truly understand the heart beat of the city and its people be sure to take a cab ride a few blocks northeast of the French Quarter and visit Bullet’s Sports Bar. Bullet’s Sports Bar is literally located in a residential neighborhood and is a local
hangout that looks like a house on a street corner. You can forget about ordering any fancy cocktails as drinks are served in a flask with a glass of ice and a mixer on the side. Every Tuesday night New Orleans legend and world famous jazz musician Kermit Ruffins and his band can be seen playing their weekly gig at Bullet’s. Do not worry if there are no tables open when you arrive as the hospitable patrons often invite visitors to sit amongst them. Next time you’re in New Orleans be sure to indulge yourself with a visit to this authentic bar only minutes from Bourbon Street.
With an open mind and a knack for adventure visitors can escape the grasp of Bourbon Street and experience New Orleans like never before. For additional information on New Orleans visit www.neworleansonline.com. For lodging be sure to check out Festiva Hospitality Group’s Frenchmen Orleans just across from the French Quarter in the heart of the Marigny.
