Tales of the Cocktail New Orleans is a must for all those who love cocktails or want to experience the cocktail recipes and mixology New Orleans is famous for. Held from July 20-24 2011. With over 150 events, for experts and amateurs alike, there is sure to be plenty to do for all at this unique festival. This is much more than a celebration but also a great learning experience. There are seminars, competitions, tastings, dinner pairings and workshops. Tickets are limited.
Archive for June, 2011
Southern Comfort Bed and Breakfast has a new Blueberry Recipe!
June 24th, 2011 by cindee
Blueberries are so ripe down here is south Louisiana that they are falling off the bushes! Considering the drought for the last few months it has turned out to be a good crop and they are plump and juicy.
At your uptown/garden district bed and breakfast, we use the freshest ingredients that are available. Larry, owner of the 1896 O’Malley House , another New Orleans B&B;, shared this recipe with me. I have served it several times now and the plates come back empty. You might give it a try, its quick and easy .
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The Ogden Museum of Southern Art Presents : Preservation Hall Remembered: 50 Years of Jazz
June 14th, 2011 by cindee
This exhibit is worth a visit. It showcases the musicians of Preservation Hall, their music, and the art it inspired.You’ll view a collection of paintings, photographs, musical instruments and listen to recordings from strategically located ipods.
For me personally, it was a tribute to Allan and Sandra Jaffe , who in 1961 had the foresight to create the Society for the Preservation of New Orleans Jazz. We owe them a lot. What would New Orleans be without the music. They were passionate about the music and offered a place for the musicians to play and earn money. It wasn’t long after that the Preservation Hall Jazz band gained notoriety and began playing worldwide.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, New Orleans Oldest Bar
June 8th, 2011 by cindee
There are many historical bars in the beautiful French Quarter of New Orleans. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is the most entrancing of the historical bars in the French Quarter, located on Bourbon and St. Phillip. This is the oldest structure used for a bar in the United States and is a remaining example of true French architecture in the Quarter. Everything about this place just feels right. The bar is shrouded in dim candlelight surrounding a brick health. Minimal electricity is used to keep the fridges cold, make ice, run your credit card and highlight the exit signs. It is a small and intimate, everything you want in a great New Orleans haunt. There is live piano music and a cozy outdoor patio. One does not feel like a tourist at Lafitte’s.
Legends say that Jean Laffite, the infamous privateer and champion of The Battle of New Orleans, used the blacksmith shop as a legitimate front for his many privateer enterprises. Seems fitting today that it is used as a favorite gathering place.
A Ferry Ride across the Mississippi to Algiers Point
June 1st, 2011 by cindee
Old Algiers, a.k.a. Algiers Point, is perhaps one of New Orleans best kept secrets. It’s located just over the Mississippi River facing the French Quarter. Founded in 1719, Algiers Point is considered one of the earliest areas of the Crescent City and is dotted with wonderful Victorian architecture and shotgun houses. The Algiers neighborhood is accessible from the French Quarter via the Canal Street Ferry.
The ferry runs from 6 a.m. and midnight seven days a week. The ride over the Mississippi river is free for pedestrians. I always suggest this to my guests. It’s a great way to actually get on the river, feel the power of the great Mississippi as the ferry forges against the current, and watch the river traffic up close. I especially like a evening crossing as the lites of the Mississippi bridge sparkle in the night and the city’s skyline is magnificent.
Old Algiers is known for its beautiful, historic architecture, bike and walking paths. Some of the most beautiful views New Orleans are accessible from atop the levee in Algiers Point. Wander aimlessly through the neighborhood and admire the architecture. Enjoy a cold beer and perhaps have lunch at Dry Dock Cafe. You’ll find local favorites of gumbo, crawfish etoufee, poboys , red beans and rice and salad’s if you’re feeling the need for a healthy choice.
