I read Out of the Easy when it first came out so this isn’t a new read; however, it is a book I would encourage you to read. She is an incredible writer who tells stories of those that go untold. I am going to reread this book because it was so good! Out of the Easy made me a huge Ruta Sepetys fan. I read her books as soon as they are released. She literally cannot write a new book fast enough. If you have never read her books, grab this one to read (but go ahead and buy all her other ones because you will read them in no time). If you are curious about the age appropriateness of this book, here is the Common Sense Media link.
Honestly, I have never been a huge New Orleans fan. And yes, I only live three hours away but anyway… I think, though, as I have gotten older and found a great traveling buddy (my good retired teacher friend), I love experiencing different places. This was a fun trip that wasn’t just doing the “touristy” stuff. What I love about traveling with my buddy is we enjoy the same things – architecture, good food, recipes, flowers (and more). So, this blog is one that shares my trip and hopefully gives you some ideas of great eating places and a cute, little hotel to stay in while there.
First, know that while I am writing this, I am enjoying delicious treats from Trader Joe’s! For those of you who can go anytime, be thankful! We do not have that pleasure anywhere in my state.
Let’s talk hotels… If you are like me, you want safety above everything else. A Wall Street Journal article states there are 41 homicides per 100,000 people. in New Orleans. Since 2019, crime in general has increased 141% (as of September 2022). We wanted to stay in a safe area (or safer) that provided secured parking. After much searching, I came across The Olivier House Hotel. Y’all, this was the absolute cutest, historic, boutique hotel! I had no clue it was this great until we checked in. I chose it because it offered paid valet parking (in a secured parking area). The original house was built in 1839. It has a fascinating history. I am just glad I didn’t know the guest parlor served as a funeral parlor at one time (YIKES!). I love the quiet courtyards where you can sit and talk or read or just drink a cup of coffee. Speaking of coffee…coffee, teas, hot chocolate, and water are available for guests for no additional charge. And the best part (other than the “doable” price for a room) are the three cats that just lay around (well, unless you are allergic).
Next, let’s talk food. I really do not think you can get a bad referral for food. Every place we went to was FANTASTIC!
Place #1 in the Garden District – Commander’s Palace. This was a fun place. There is a dress code and probably not a great place to take young kids. They are apparently known for their 25 cents martinis. I feel like I should have had one but didn’t. The gumbo and bread were amazing. Later, while antiquing in Ponchatoula, I found and bought the 1984 cookbook by Ella Brennan. Since I had the gumbo there, I decided to make that recipe tonight. We all agree that the thicker roux is way better than the quick, easy stuff I have done in the past. There were a few changes I had to make (like no bell peppers…oops…forgot those at the store); however, all in all, it was incredible just like the dish I had at the actual place. My roux was not as dark as their roux due to time (I had to get my daughter somewhere so it got brown but not DARK brown). You will also see a few pictures of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 which is located across the street. We had planned to walk around it, but it was closed for repairs and improvements.
Place #2 – Gumbo Shop – My traveling buddy had been here before, so we had dinner there one night. There was too much to choose from so I went with the red beans and rice.
Place #3 – Elizabeth’s Kitchen – This is a hidden gem that a teacher friend recommended. It is not one you can walk to from your hotel room. It is best known for breakfast! It is located in the Upper Ninth Ward – Bywater (don’t let that scare you…well, as long as you go during the day…not sure about night). The neighborhood is an artsy area where small shotgun houses are being renovated into cute homes. Google Bywater real estate to see some examples. Back to food… this place did not let us down on a fantastic breakfast.
My traveling buddy had the famous Redneck Eggs – fried green tomatoes with poached eggs and hollandaise.
I chose the red velvet waffles with a side of praline bacon.
So…other than a place to stay and multiple places to eat, there are a plethora of things to do in New Orleans for NON-PARTYING people. Yes, there is Cafe Du Monde (we had already been there so didn’t revisit). Yes, there is the zoo, aquarium, and insectarium – all great if you have children. Yes, there is Saenger Theater, which was the original purpose of the visit. By the way, if you have not seen the musical SIX, it is a must see especially if you are a huge British nerd like myself. So, I would say Happy Traveling but will end by saying Happy Reading – go buy Out of the Easy! And enjoy these random pictures. Until next time…
