Uptown New Orleans

Fun for Couples in Uptown New Orleans

Uptown New Orleans

New Orleans is considered one of the most romantic destinations in the country, if not the world. It’s easy to have a great time on a date in practically any part of this city, but Uptown holds its own against, say, the French Quarter, by bringing its historic past as the “American sector” and its unique charm into the equation.

There you’ll find majestic mansions under the canopies of the centuries-old live oaks, charming, dimly lit restaurants, modern cafes, shopping for blocks, photogenic streetcars, and iconic bars with world-class live music pouring out on any given night. Impressing your loved one doesn’t need to break the bank, either. In New Orleans, even a morning stroll in the park could bring on the magic. Here are our suggestions for some fun activities for couples in Uptown New Orleans.

Breakfast

Whether you would prefer to linger with a cocktail or want to have a quick yet solid breakfast at a diner, Uptown has no shortage of high-to-low options. If you’re looking for an inexpensive local hangout with Southern staples and plenty of local color, the fun, upbeat Slim Goodies Diner on Magazine Street won’t steer you wrong with its inventively named slammers (different kinds of scrambles, from meaty to vegan, served with hash browns). The Creole Slammer, for instance, comes with a biscuit and crawfish etouffee.

Another inexpensive option is the Camellia Grill, a legendary Carrollton Avenue diner that’s been serving hearty omelets and pecan pie since 1946. There will probably be a line, but it moves quickly, and you can get breakfast all day.

If you are coffee-and-a-pastry-for-breakfast people, the incomparable Gracious Bakery + Cafe has two locations Uptown, at 2854 St. Charles Avenue on the corner of 6th Street in the Garden District, and at 4930 Prytania Street. All baked goods and breakfast sandwiches are top-notch, and there are house-made granola and house-cured salmon bagels.

Looking for a cozy, welcoming hangout where you can grab small-batch roasted coffee, and a vegan muffin, and connect to wi-fi? Mojo Coffee House is the spot. You won’t find full kitchen service at this laid-back coffee house but for caffeine and a quick bite, nothing beats Mojo. French Truck Coffee has the best iced cold-drip coffee New Orleans has to offer,  served in a high-ceilinged, Edison bulb-hung space.

Another excellent option is the beautiful La Boulangerie, a French bakery and cafe with all the menu items hand-prepared according to traditional recipes and sidewalk tables.

If you can swing an early breakfast, Molly’s Rise and Shine and Riccobono’s Panola Street Cafe  are both excellent choices.

Molly’s serves a mean breakfast full of items like bagel bites, burritos, the star special, the Grand Slam McMuffin (pork patties, hashbrowns, onions, American cheese), but also lighter fare like the roasted carrot yogurt. And, since opening in 1998, Riccobono’s Panola Street Cafe has become a New Orleans fixture, known for some of the best breakfast in the city. Both are open from 8 a.m. till 2 p.m.

St. Charles Streetcar

Not just a means of public transportation, the historic St. Charles Avenue line streetcar is on many visitors’ bucket lists because it’s the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world (since 1835). It will set you back $1.25 per person, and the route is as scenic as it gets, with the columned mansions surrounded by impressive gardens and wrought-iron fences. Take it either all the way from Canal Street to the end of the line by the River, or hop on and off along St. Charles Avenue to take in the sights.

Walking Tours

Spend some time taking in the extraordinary beauty of Uptown’s many architectural styles. Whether you prefer to explore on foot, by car or by bus, both self-guided and guided tours are available daily. You can just walk around the historic district spotting celebrity houses and marveling at the gardens, or hop on the streetcar to visit the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. (Please note that as of Fall 2022 the cemetery is still temporarily closed for repairs.)

Audubon Park and The Fly

The streetcar also brings you right to the urban oasis of historic Audubon Park. Located near the picturesque campuses of Tulane and Loyola universities, Audubon Park is perfect for a stroll among the oaks and the lagoons, or a picnic (bring some bread to feed the ducks). The area behind the Audubon Zoo and along the Mississippi River, known as The Fly, is a lovely spot to simply sit and watch the boats go by.

Shopping

Magazine and Freret streets and St. Charles Avenue are all commercial hubs with block after block of shopping destinations. Magazine Street in particular is worth (an easy walk) for about 10 blocks, which are packed with sidewalk cafes, galleries, antique stores, vintage boutiques, and funky local costume stores. Get some locally made New Orleans-centric gear at Dirty Coast or Fleurty Girl, or satisfy your costuming and vintage needs at Funky Monkey and Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing & Costumes.

Lunch and Dinner

Uptown has many cozy, romantic spots for either a lingering lunch or a romantic dinner date. La Crepe Nanou, located on the corner of Robert and Prytania Streets, is an intimate French bistro with a fantastic selection of sweet and savory crepes and a wine list to complement them. It’s consistently voted as the “most romantic” on various lists for its ambiance. Another small, French-Italian bistro, Lilette, boasts a heated patio, cozy booths and a sophisticated, sharable menu. Patois puts a local spin on mussels, grilled Gulf shrimp and southern staples like sweetbreads in a lovely, softly-lit setting.

You’ll find exposed brick, chandeliers and gleaming hardwood floors at Coquette, another sophisticated Magazine Street destination with a locally sourced menu and craft cocktails. Choose from the small and big plate menus, or put yourselves into the chef’s capable hands with a five-course blind tasting.

For authentic Sicilian cuisine head to Avo. The seasonal menu is bursting with seafood (try the charred octopus) and homemade pasta dishes. The interior is gorgeous, but see if you can score a table in the candlelit courtyard, perfect for a special occasion.

We also recommend both Apolline  and Bistro Daisy for their romantic settings. Set in a renovated double shotgun cottage, Apolline spotlights chef Michael Shelton’s creative use of local ingredients in modern Southern dishes like veal sweetbreads and crawfish bisque. Impress your date with some elevated dining, New Orleans style.

Bistro Daisy is a quaint eatery nestled in a charming cottage located in the heart of Uptown New Orleans. It’s been open since 2007 and is named after the owners Anton & Diane Schulte daughter. As the name suggests, it’s a bistro, with fresh, seasonal and often local ingredients on the French-leaning menu. Expect elevated takes on the Gulf fish, leg of duck confit, and bouillabaisse.

La Petite Grocery, the former 19th-century neighborhood grocery, was beautifully transformed by owner-chefs Justin Devillier in 2010. A 2016 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: South, Devillier puts his creative spin on traditional New Orleans cuisine with dishes like blue crab beignets and shellfish stew.

Two more good date spots are the Misa (lovely patio) and Alon Shaya’s Saba. Both are located on Magazine Street and feature Middle Eastern cuisine.

Last but not the least, you haven’t gotten a taste of classic romantic New Orleans if you haven’t visited Pascal’s Manale Restaurant. Watch the oysters getting shucked in front of you in this dark-paneled, elegant space with a martini in hand, and maybe stay for dinner to sample Pascal’s legendary BBQ shrimp and veal Picatta.

A Movie

Few things are more romantic than catching a classic movie in a century-old theater, especially on a rainy day. Prytania Theatre is the oldest theater in the city and the only single-screen one left in Louisiana. Inside, you’ll find plush red seats and a tiny coffee stand with excellent gelato and espresso. Prytania screens the classics like Citizen Cane and Casablanca regularly, and cult classics at midnight.

Happy Hour

Pizza Domenica on Magazine Street offers excellent wine and draft beer lists as well as half off its wood-fired pizzas (some of the best in New Orleans) daily, 3-5 p.m. If you’d like to share some wine, head to Bar Frances on Freret Street, to sample its excellent selection during a generous happy hour.

Music

Dance the sultry night away at the iconic Tipitina’s, which has hosted everyone from world-famous acts in town for Jazz Fest to local brass bands and the Mardi Gras Indians. The Maple Leaf Bar, with its tin ceiling and a hopping dance floor, has live music every night at 10 p.m., including some of the best brass bands in the city every Tuesday. Don’t miss that.

Have fun being out and about!

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poboyfest

Must-Try Po-Boys at the Po-Boy Festival


Photo courtesy of Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

One thing New Orleanians can agree on, the po-boy satisfies hunger like nothing else. The once-humble sandwich has gone high-class in recent years, with top chefs serving their own inventive takes. But you can still find hearty 12-inch versions spilling fried shrimp and oysters for under $15 in local corner stores.

There is a po-boy for every budget and palate in New Orleans at the annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival. (The last one was held on November 6, 2022.) This year’s fest will be held on Sunday, November 19th from 10 am to 6 pm, and you can be sure that you will be able to sample the best po-boys the city has to offer.

The Oak Street Fest is held between the 8100 and 8800 blocks of Oak Street in the Carrollton neighborhood. About 35 vendors present more food than you could shake your fork at, with over 60 varieties of delicious sandwiches alone — plus beer, specialty cocktails, and desserts.

And, of course, this being New Orleans, there is live music, with stages set up on side streets to avoid the Oak Street foot traffic congestion of the past years. A second line usually opens the fest at 10 a.m., forming at Oak and Carrollton streets.

In all past years, the admission was free, but you had to get a $5 wristband at the fest to purchase the po-boys (it’s OK if one person in the group buys multiple po-boys, according to the event organizers). Hate the long lines? At the previous fest, attendees could get their hands on the po-boys faster by getting one of the two passes.

One option was a $20 “fast pass” to enter the fast lane. The VIP pass ($99) granted access to the Oak VIP lounge with a balcony and a front-row view of the main stage, plus food and drinks, including specialty cocktails.

In the festival’s 14 years of existence, some of the best restaurants in the city have competed in six “Best of” categories: seafood, oyster, shrimp, sausage, pork, and beef. Past winners included the wildly popular Red Fish Grill’s BBQ oyster po-boy and Bratz Y’all’s Drunk Pig. The 2022 winners included the Parkway Bakery & Tavern‘s deep-fried buffalo shrimp Bahn mi, Boucherie‘s 12-hour roast beef sandwich, and fried oyster mushroom po-boy from Voodoo Vegan.

To give you just a taste of what to expect, here’s a sample menu from some of the past vendors. And don’t worry, most do come back year after year, so all this deliciousness will be within reach once the next fest rolls around.

The fest regular, the Mid-City-based po-boy king Parkway Bakery and Tavern, has been known to impress with its incredibly popular signature creation, “The James Brown” po-boy — slow-cooked roast beef topped with fried Gulf shrimp smothered in gravy. The ever-popular Godfather po-boy from Vincent’s Italian Cuisine marries three savory types of meat: Italian sausage, meatballs, and daube meat (beef slow-cooked in a red sauce, like brisket) and tops them with mozzarella cheese. Redfish Grill has repeatedly offered its signature BBQ oyster concoction, flash-fried and tossed in Crystal BBQ sauce. Metairie’s NOLA Boils & Catering kicked it up one year with an escargot po-boy while Oceana Grill keeps offering its oyster Rockefeller po-boy (with housemade sauce).

There are plenty of creative concoctions for the adventurous taste buds too, with game, elevated touches, and Asian and Caribbean flavors. In the dessert category, expect items like strawberry and Nutella tiramisu po-boys from Crêpes à la Cart.

As with any fest, there are an art market and a kids’ area. The festival is rain or shine, pedestrian- and bike-friendly, and pets are welcome. Parking options are limited, so if you go next year, consider biking or taking the St. Charles Avenue streetcar (get off at the Oak Street stop).

We can’t wait to see who wins next year!

cure freret street

A Night on Freret Street

cure freret street
Photo courtesy of Cure NOLA on Facebook

Once a sleepy neighborhood thoroughfare bordering Tulane University, Freret Street has undergone a revival over the past decade, becoming a food and entertainment destination in its own right. From Japanese to Southern soul food, there’s a cuisine for almost everyone — and Freret Street is only two blocks from the Alder Hotel.

Another plus? Freret’s Uptown location means it attracts a smaller, more local crowd, which equals shorter waits at excellent, off-the-beaten-path bars and eateries. Here’s a sample of what to do, eat and drink along one of the most vibrant, action-packed commercial corridors in the city.

High Hat Cafe (4500 Freret St.)

Part old-fashioned diner, part neighborhood bar and part Deep South food destination, High Hat Cafe is a great place to grab a plate of fried catfish, a bowl of chicken and andouille gumbo, or a shrimp po-boy. Huge glass windows offer a prime opportunity to people-watch while eating a slice of house-made pie. (Save room for a snack at the next Freret Street destination.)

Ancora (4508 Freret St.)

Ancora’s pizza is made Neapolitan-style, using wood-burning ovens and without commercial yeast. Ancora created its own starter in-house, and the dough takes three days to prepare from start to finish, with a crust that is unique to New Orleans. Drinks include seasonal Italian sodas, craft cocktails, and wines from the Campania region of southern Italy. Check out the house-made salumi and happy-hour pizza specials. Ancora is located in a renovated building next to High Hat Cafe.

The Rook Cafe (4516 Freret St.)

Looking for a quiet locals’ hangout with vegan pastries, locally roasted coffee, free wi-fi, and a vibe that encourages you to settle in for a few hours with a game of chess or a good book? The Rook is the place. The cozy coffee shop also hosts frequent gamers’ nights and pop-ups.

Bar Frances (4525 Freret St.)

Bar Frances has been operating since 2016, courtesy of Mark Latter, who also owns the historic Tujague’s in the French Quarter. It’s an airy, spacious and thoroughly modern bistro, with wood finishes, a marble bar that seats more than a dozen, and covered patio seating. The menu is seasonal, with small plates like tuna tartare and lamb meatballs. There’s also a full dinner menu featuring high-quality steaks, burgers and Gulf fish if you want to dig in. Wine rules at Bar Frances, offered on tap and by carafes, and through clever pairings. There’s a generous daily happy hour featuring a large selection of natural wines.

The Company Burger (4600 Freret St.)

The Company Burger on Freret and Cadiz streets offers a solid menu of delicious burgers, fries and milkshakes. The menu keeps it simple with the award-winning lamb, turkey, and beef burgers, plus sides, shakes, and cocktails. The house burger comes with a fried egg, two patties, and bacon. The “not burger” options are also kept simple: hot dogs, and grilled cheese and fried chicken sandwiches.

Midway Pizza (4725 Freret St.)

Deep-dish pizza isn’t that easy to find in New Orleans, and this restaurant housed in an industrial, high-ceilinged space uses an age-old family recipe. All of its pizzas, salads and flatbreads are made in-house.

Cure (4905 Freret St.)

The owners of Cure were at the forefront of Freret Street’s revitalization when they opened this chic craft cocktail bar in 2009. Located in a 1903 fire station, the James Beard Award-winning Cure is sleek, dimly lit, and filled with stylish nine-to-fivers, especially during its happy hour. The Washington Post, Eater, The New York Times, Travel + Leisure, and many other publications have listed Cure among their picks for top U.S. bars. Get a classic or custom craft cocktail and a cheese plate, and enjoy both on a leafy, secluded patio to start the night.

Gasa Gasa (4920 Freret St.)

You’ll know you’ve arrived at this hip music venue when you see the psychedelic, black-and-white mural by Berlin graffiti artist MTO outside. Depending on the night, local or touring musical acts, comedy shows, burlesque performances, or movie screenings may be on the roster. The patio is a comfortable place to relax with a beer. And, if a hunger pang strikes, a food truck is never far away.

Freret Beer Room (5018 Freret St.)

This gastropub had a revamp in the summer of 2019, adding TVs and an updated menu that focuses on pairing craft beer with modern American cuisine (sandwiches, salads, cheese and charcuterie boards). Proprietor Eli Gay also runs a retail beer shop next door.

Dat Dog (5030 Freret St.)

Dat Dog’s both Uptown locations, including the Freret St. one near Soniat St., have dog-friendly outdoor seating, which is great for people-watching too. The affordable Dat Dog dishes out a wide variety of meat, fish, vegan and veggie hot dogs, sausages, and other kid-friendly comfort food like burgers and chicken. The dogs and the sausages come with a choice of more than 30 toppings.

Mint Modern Vietnamese Bistro & Bar (5100 Freret St.)

Mint’s streamlined menu is modern indeed, packed with specialty rolls, several varieties of pho, banh mi, and a kimchi burger. One of the unusual specialty cocktails is Fishy Surprise, which is made with whiskey, Drambuie, grapefruit juice, and fish sauce.

Things to Do on Loyola and Tulane Campuses – Alder Hotel Uptown New Orleans

Things to Do on Loyola and Tulane Campuses – Alder Hotel Uptown New Orleans


Photo courtesy of Loyola University New Orleans on Facebook

Nestled side by side on historic St. Charles Avenue, directly across from Audubon Park, you’ll find two of the nation’s foremost private universities: Tulane and Loyola. Their campuses house plentiful amenities for those lucky enough to be enrolled as students, but visitors and members of the community are also able to partake in many of these resources. From art galleries to cutting-edge fitness centers, here are a just few good reasons to visit the campuses.

Walk through to take in the history and the architecture

Both historic campuses absolutely deserve a walkthrough thanks to their architectural significance and lush grounds. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, Tulane University’s campus occupies more than 110 acres and extends north to S. Claiborne Avenue through Freret and Willow streets. From Italian Renaissance to Mid-Century Modern, the campus boasts many styles and is known for its large live oak trees.

Loyola’s sprawling main campus also faces St. Charles Avenue and Audubon Park. Marquette Hall is the oldest campus building and is the iconic image of the university you’ll probably recognize the most.

Check out a free music recital at Loyola

Loyola University’s music program is considered one of the best in the nation. From jazz studies to ballet performances, students hone their skills under the tutelage of the nation’s most talented performers and teachers. What does this mean for you? Well, students need to practice performing — and they do so in a series of free recitals at the 400-seat Nunemaker Auditorium (third floor of the Monroe Science Complex, 6363 St. Charles Ave.) or at the 586-seat Louis J. Roussel Performance Hall (on the second floor of the Communications/Music complex located on the corner of St. Charles Ave. and Calhoun St.). When school is in session, check out up-and-coming musicians who are perfecting their skills. The recital schedule is available here.

Grab a pint at The Ratskeller on the Tulane campus

Built in 1966 and designed to resemble a German biergarten, Der Rathskeller (aka “The Rat”) remains a laid-back place to have a cold one. The Rat is a WOW Cafe and Wingery outlet, so pub grub ranging from chicken wings to fried mozzarella sticks is available, as are draft beers. On some nights, you can catch free jazz performances from students and visiting masters.

Take a fitness class at Loyola

Boasting a six-lane Olympic-sized pool, sauna, indoor tennis and racquetball courts, free weights, and much more, the Loyola University Sports Complex isn’t just for students. You can get a week’s membership for just $25.

Visit a free art museum and sculpture garden at Loyola (6363 St. Charles Ave., 4th floor of the Monroe Library)

Loyola University’s Collins C. Diboll Art Gallery and Visual Art Center stars artifacts from the Belgian Congo, as well as rotating exhibits of student art, pottery and graphics. Afterward, stroll through the university’s sculpture garden, located between Marquette and Bobet Halls.

Visit the free Newcomb Art Museum at Tulane

This museum sits on Tulane University’s campus, and it is free and open to the public. Past and present exhibitions have focused on works by contemporary women abstractionists and other contributions by women artists in the multi-disciplinary fields spanning art and design. Be sure you have a map handy, and check the hours of operation before you go, as the museum is closed on Sundays and closes at 4 or 5 p.m., depending on the day of the week.

Go to Crawfest at Tulane

Crawfest takes place once a year, but if you happen to be visiting New Orleans during April, you must check out this tribute to Louisiana’s favorite crustacean: two stages of music, more than 20,000 pounds of crawfish, and plenty of arts and crafts vendors take over Tulane’s quad. It’s free for students and faculty, and for everyone else, a $15 wristband gets you access to all-you-can-eat crawfish, soda and water. Now that’s a hot deal.

Visit The Mushroom (1037 Broadway St.)

The Mushroom isn’t technically on Tulane’s campus, but it’s close enough to count. For more than 40 years, it’s been Uptown’s go-to indie record store. You’ll know you’re there when you see the psychedelic murals on the building’s exterior. Climb a concert-poster-papered stairway and arrive in the incense-scented shop, where it’s easy to while away an afternoon sifting through record crates and admiring intricate handmade glass pipes. It’s a trip back to your own college days — in the best possible way.

Getting to the campuses from the Alder Hotel

Need to stay close to the Tulane or Loyola campuses? The Alder Hotel is only a little over a mile away, which translates to an under 10-minute ride by car, about 10 minutes on the streetcar, or, if you like to walk, it might take about 20 minutes.

Navigating this part of Uptown is also very simple. The historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar line will bring you right to either campus. It stops on every block of St. Charles Ave., running from every eight to 20 minutes, depending on the time of day and night. The fare is $1.25 per person, and you can get passes ranging from one-day passes ($3) to month-long ($45).

If you’re walking, we recommend the following route from the hotel to catch the St. Charles Ave. streetcar:

  1. Take a left at the hotel’s entrance, then take Magnolia St. toward Napoleon Ave.
  2. Make a right at Napoleon Ave. and walk down Napoleon Ave. for about 10 blocks until you arrive at St. Charles Ave.
  3. Want to walk all the way? Just reach St. Charles Ave. and continue towards the river until you see Audubon Park and the university campuses across St. Charles Ave. from the park.

Also, remember: The Alder Hotel offers free self-parking in the parking lot directly across the street. It’s relatively rare to find this amenity in New Orleans, so we hope you take advantage of it!

Stay in touch and save on rates and more at the Alder Hotel by signing up for our email list at https://alderhotel.com/email-offers/. If you find a lower rate on your Alder Hotel rooms at the time of booking, call 1.888.626.5861 to let us know, and we will match that rate!

audubon zoo

Architectural Landmarks — Uptown New Orleans


The Uptown District stretches from Broadway Street, incorporating the Garden District, and all the way into Carrolton and to the Mississippi River. It’s a heavily residential area peppered with grand mansions, lush gardens, and shopping and dining strips — all canopied by the majestic, centuries-old live oaks.

With its photogenic St. Charles Avenue (along which runs a world-famous streetcar), immaculate late-19th century houses, and small, unique shops and restaurants, it’s safe to say that Uptown is one of the most beautiful and heavily visited parts of New Orleans. Green and storybook-picturesque, Uptown retained a good number of historically significant 19th-century mansions built in Italianate, Victorian, and Greek Revival styles, many of which are painstakingly maintained and are in great condition.

The history

The area, now known as Uptown New Orleans, was granted to Louisiana Governor Jean Baptiste LeMoyne, Sier de Bienville, in 1719 and divided into smaller plantations in 1723. Uptown was laid out as an urban open system in 1806 by the notable Creole city planner Barthelemy Lafon. The idea was to intersperse and connect a series of parks and residential neighborhoods. It was especially thriving after the World’s Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition held in 1884. Parts of Uptown that now contain the stunning Garden District were inhabited by the well-to-do American arrivals after the Louisiana Purchase.

Uptown is easy to get to from other parts of the city, and easy to navigate, in part due to the convenience of the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line. On any given day you’ll see visitors hopping on and off the streetcar to take in some sightseeing.

The architecture

Uptown’s architecture is historically unique. It’s easy to fall in love with the area’s oak-lined streets, its lavish gardens that seem to be in bloom all year round, the grand mansions, and the well-preserved shotguns. Most homes aren’t open to the public but are still worth seeing for their exterior alone. Many houses still bear the names of the families that built them. One could spend the whole day on the historic St. Charles Avenue alone, getting a glimpse at 19th-century New Orleans. The sprawling avenue stretches from Downtown to Uptown, all the way to the river, hosting one of the best collections of historic houses in the South.

Notable houses

A few most notable ones not to miss, in the descending house number order, are the “Wedding Cake House” (5807 St. Charles Ave.), the 1896 Colonial Revival home with lots of Victorian splendor to offer; the “Anthemion” (4631 St. Charles Ave.), which used to house the Japanese consulate; the “Smith House” (4534 St. Charles Ave.), built in 1906 for the president of the New Orleans Cotton Exchange, William Smith; the “Elms Mansion” (3029 St. Charles Ave.), an 1869 architectural wonder; and the “Diocesan” (2265 St. Charles Ave.), designed and built by the prominent local architect James Gallier.

The Milton H. Latter Memorial Library

Another St. Charles Avenue gem that deserves a mention is the Milton H. Latter Memorial Library (5120 St. Charles Ave.). This restored neo-Italianate limestone mansion was designed by architects Favrot and Livaudais, and built in 1907 for a wealthy merchant, Mark Isaacs. It was donated to the city by the Latter family in memory of their son, and opened as a library in 1948. Inside, you’ll find the original ceiling frescoes and murals, and the well-preserved formal rooms on the first two floors.

Audubon Park and Zoo

The architectural wonders of Uptown also contain a park, a cemetery, and not one but two university campuses. The magnificent Audubon Park and the beautifully appointed Audubon Zoo are only a short streetcar ride away and probably don’t need an introduction. The historic park is a meticulously planned urban oasis and an architectural wonder interspersed with lagoons, picnic shelters, and walking paths.

Tulane and Loyola universities

Right across Audubon Park, you’ll find the campuses of Tulane and Loyola universities. Tulane started as a Medical College of Louisiana in 1847, in an effort to study and treat the deadly diseases like yellow fever, malaria and smallpox that the city was importing via its port. It morphed into what it is now after Paul Tulane, a wealthy merchant, donated more than $1 million in land, cash and securities in 1884. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, Tulane University’s campus occupies more than 110 acres and extends north to S. Claiborne Avenue through Freret and Willow streets. From Italian Renaissance to Mid-Century Modern, the campus boasts many styles and is known for its large live oak trees.

You can find Loyola’s sprawling main campus adjacent to Tulane and facing St. Charles Avenue and Audubon Park. It was established in 1904 on the land purchased by the New Orleans Jesuits in 1889. Marquette Hall is the oldest campus building and is the iconic image of the university you’ll probably recognize the most.

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

Temporarily closed.

Finally, no Uptown architectural tour is complete without hitting the above-ground Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 on Washington Avenue, in the heart of the Garden District. It’s the oldest of the seven city-operated cemeteries in New Orleans, with some interesting society tombs (the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Home For Destitute Orphan Boys among them) and over a thousand family tombs. The iconic cemetery has served as a popular backdrop for many music videos and movies over the years (Double Jeopardy, Dracula, etc.). As of 2022, it’s closed for maintenance and repairs, with plans to reopen.

Sidewalk sign for Magazine Street in New Orleans, Louisiana

Exploring Magazine Street Block by Block

Just like Freret Street’s revitalized strip, at least 13 blocks of Magazine Street are meant to be walked. It’s the main commercial artery that the Garden District and Uptown share, and it’s crammed with restaurants, bars, sidewalk cafes, and dozens of retail stores.

Post-pandemic, even more restaurants have mushroomed, making Magazine Street an essential dining destination. From the James Beard award winners to casual, budget-friendly popups, it’s a must on your New Orleans food bucket list.

Similarly, Magazine Street is a shopping haven, from high-end boutiques to vintage shops to unique local retailers with one-a-kind New Orleans-themed merch. So, if you’re looking to buy local art, antiques, vintage clothing or funky costumes, Magazine Street is where you’ll find it.

Here are our top recommendations for where to eat, shop, rent a bike or get your yoga fix on Magazine Street block by block. We couldn’t possibly include every place, but you can use this detailed guide to Magazine Street for a full list. Now, let’s explore.

Where to Eat and Drink on Magazine Street

Stein’s Market and Deli

2207 Magazine Street

A classic Jewish-Italian deli that’s popular for its specialty meats, cheeses, and brews. This is where you can get Cuban or breakfast sandwiches outside of the French Quarter (we’re talking about Verti Marte), or a corned beef special the likes of which you’d find at legendary delis like Katz’s in New York City. This is also a place for you if you’ve been nostalgic for a cheesesteak, a hoagie, a matzah ball soup, or a tuna melt from your home city. The Italian angle is represented by panini and other classics, and the sides include sauerkraut and Knishes with fillings like corned beef and cheese, and potato and onion. Nothing on the menu will break the bank, and everything is delicious.

Molly’s Rise and Shine

2338 Magazine Street

A sister restaurant of the nationally buzzed-about Turkey and the Wolf is worth a visit if you’re jonesing for breakfast. Only open Thursday through Monday, from 8 a.m. till 2 p.m., Molly’s serves a heaping breakfast menu full of items like bagel bites, burritos, the special called the Grand Slam McMuffin (pork patties, hashbrowns, onions, American cheese), but also lighter fare like the roasted carrot yogurt.

The Ruby Slipper Café

2802 Magazine Street

This locally owned mini-chain is a must-go for heaping Southern staples like eggs cochon, shrimp and grits, and bacon praline pancakes. It’s got its award-winning formula down with generous portions, killer cocktails, upbeat and quick service, and a down-home vibe. Even if there’s a wait, it will be worth it.

Another Broken Egg Café

2917 Magazine Street

This is a popular brunch destination on the bustling commercial corridor of Magazine Street with pancakes, brunch specialties like crab cake Benedict and eggs with crawfish and Andouille, signature omelets, and specialty spiked cold brews and Bloody Marys served in mason jars.

Slim Goodies Diner

3322 Magazine Street

An inexpensive local hangout with Southern staples and plenty of good vibes. Some of the house specialties are the inventively named slammers (different kinds of scrambles, from meaty to vegan, served with hash browns). The Creole Slammer, for instance, comes with a biscuit and crawfish étouffée. There’s also a lovely patio.

Dat Dog

3336 Magazine Street

Dat Dog’s both Uptown locations (there’s another one at 5030 Freret St.) have dog-friendly outdoor seating, great for people-watching too. At both locations, the affordable Dat Dog dishes out a wide variety of meat, fish, vegan and veggie hot dogs, sausages, and other kid-friendly comfort food like burgers and chicken. The dogs and the sausages come with a choice of more than 30 toppings.

Imperial Woodpecker Sno Balls

3511 Magazine Street

Classic, creamy, sugar-free, and all-natural flavors (strawberry-basil, watermelon-jalapeno) rub shoulders at Imperial Woodpecker.

Bouligny Tavern

3641 Magazine Street

This chic gastropub is located just outside the Garden District, right next to its sister restaurant, Lilette. There’s a heated patio that’s perfect for winding down with one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails and small plates like a shrimp roll or duck confit. It’s open later than most restaurants in the area — till midnight on Mondays through Wednesdays, and till 1 a.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays.

Nomiya

4226 Magazine Street

Nomiya defines itself as a New Orleans ramen bar and sticks to it by serving the traditional, pork-based tonkotsu plus two more types of broth. The menu is simple: pick your broth and the toppings, and maybe supplement with edamame and pork buns. The mochi ice cream flavors rotate.

La Petit Grocery

4238 Magazine Street

La Petite Grocery, the former 19th-century neighborhood grocery, was transformed by owner-chef Justin Devillier in 2010. A 2016 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: South, Devillier puts his creative spin on traditional New Orleans cuisine with dishes like blue crab beignets and shellfish stew.

Casamento’s Restaurant

4330 Magazine Street

A staple and a go-to destination for fresh seafood since 1919, Casamento’s is as New Orleans as it gets. Head on over to enjoy the oyster bar nestled inside a small, mosaic-tiled space, but also try any and all of the seafood offerings on the menu. Casamento’s should be on every local’s and visitors’ bucket list.

Piccola Gelateria

4500 Magazine Street

In addition to small-batch, house-made gelato and sorbetto in over a dozen flavors, this classic Italian-style gelato shop offers crepes (savory with meat, sweet with Nutella, and vegetarian). Piccola Gelateria sources local milk and cream, and sells its own, custom-blended, micro-roasted espresso. The place opens at noon, and could also serve well as a brunch destination.

Raw Republic

4528 Magazine Street

Raw Republic’s cold-pressed, organic juices are a healthy way to kickstart your day. The bright, modern storefront offers coffee, smoothies, salads, cereal, and grab-and-go vegan fare, too. Though the storefront is tiny, a staircase leads to an upstairs room with balcony seating — perfect for people-watching while sipping your green juice. They also deliver.

La Boulangerie

4600 Magazine Street

Tarts, scones, quiches, and muffins at this French bakery and cafe are almost too pretty to eat, and all menu items are hand-prepared according to traditional recipes. Sit at a sidewalk table with an almond croissant and a cafe au lait and feel like you’ve been transported to Paris.

Apolline

4729 Magazine Street

Set in a renovated double shotgun cottage, Apolline spotlights chef Michael Shelton’s creative use of local ingredients in modern Southern dishes like veal sweetbreads and crawfish bisque. Impress your date with some elevated dining, New Orleans style, or bring the family for brunch/lunch.

Misa

4734 Magazine Street

A welcome addition to the increasingly thriving Middle Eastern newcomers on Magazine Street, Misa offers Israeli and Lebanese specialties on its menu and outdoor dining. The small dining room and the patio are both lovely and cozy, and a great way to pass some time people-watching while gorging on lamb kebabs and housemade desserts.

Tal’s Hummus

4800 Magazine Street

A great on-the-go option on the bustling Magazine Street, Tal’s is a quick-service-style tiny spot that specializes in Israeli-inspired food such as falafel, hummus, pita sandwiches, platters, kebabs, salads, and more. It’s fresh, quick, delicious, and made to order.

Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco

5015 Magazine Street

Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco is chef Juan Lock’s ode to the Peruvian culinary traditions, including ceviche, the national dish of his home country, and pisco sour, a popular national drink. The menu is laden with traditional Peruvian dishes made with love and fresh, local ingredients. Dine as a family, or bring a date — you won’t be disappointed either way.

Guy’s Po-Boys

5259 Magazine Street

Guy’s has been a beloved local lunch staple since the early 1990s. It’s often voted among the top five po-boy shops in the city, if not the top. The fried shrimp po-boy is definitely among the best in the city.

Saba

5757 Magazine Street

Alon Shaya’s Saba is the award-winning chef’s love letter to Middle Eastern cuisine, with a focus on Israeli culinary classics. Everything here, from hummus to labneh to falafel is worth sampling and very sharable. Saba is open for lunch Friday through Sunday.

Taqueria Corona

5932 Magazine Street

Taqueria Corona is a go-to for the whole family if you’re craving well-done classic Mexican food like tacos and burritos. The house margarita is a good deal, and tasty, too. This Uptown sit-down is popular for very good reasons and always seems to be packed, but the service is efficient, so you’ll be seated quickly. Taqueria Corona is not just our lunch recommendation, it’s a great pick for brunch and dinner as well.

Where to Shop on Magazine Street

Dirty Coast

1320 and 5415 Magazine Streets 

Dirty Coast is a New Orleans-based T-shirt company that’s been around since 2004, outfitting the locals and the visitors alike in the NOLA-centric tees, hoodies and tanks, and coining the ubiquitous phrase “Be a New Orleanian Wherever You Are.” Besides T-shirts Dirty Coast is packed to the gills with coasters, bumper stickers, home goods, merch for kids, and lots and lots of all things Who Dat and Mardi Gras. In addition to its two Magazine Street locations, the company has an outpost at the Louis Armstrong International Airport.

Century Girl

2023 Magazine Street

This elegant vintage boutique showcases a carefully curated selection of rare and gorgeous vintage pieces spanning the decades including Jazz Age, many of them designer (think vintage Chanel earrings, Gatsby-esque rhinestone headbands, and bridal romantic lingerie of yesteryear). Everything is in pristine condition and impeccably presented.

Zele NOLA

2841 Magazine Street

This permanent indoor market features more than 100 shops under one roof. There you’ll find locally made art, clothing, crafts, home decor, and jewelry you can take home. The eclectic inventory is mostly handmade and maintains the green theme by featuring recycled and repurposed items.

Magazine Antique Mall

3017 Magazine Street

This sprawling indoor haven for antique and vintage shoppers is brimming with estate jewelry, vintage clothing, 70s tchotchkes, antique furniture, collectibles, and anything else you can dig out. It’s a 6,500 sq. ft. trifecta of a walk down memory lane, a bargain hunt, and a trip down the rabbit hole, all under one roof.

Funky Monkey

3127 Magazine Street

The affordable, quirky and locally owned Funky Monkey mixes new, used and vintage clothing and accessories for both men and women with costumes, trendy basics, and contemporary indie labels. Come Halloween or Mardi Gras this is your destination for seasonal gear like vintage ballgowns and costume jewelry.

Fleurty Girl

3137 Magazine Street

A successful vision of New Orleans-native Lauren Leblanc Haydel, Fleurty Girl was founded in 2009 and has since expanded to eight locations in Louisiana, including one Uptown, and the latest addition at the new North Terminal at the Louis Armstrong International Airport. The boutique T-shirt chain sells New Orleans-inspired apparel, accessories, home decor, and gifts. Fleurty Girl’s specialties are Who Dat shirts and “Shirts With Y’atitude” for men, women, kids, and even dogs — very New Orleans pride.

United Apparel Liquidators (UAL)

3306 Magazine Street

This small Southern chain has three locations in the New Orleans metro area (the others are in the French Quarter and Metairie), offering up to 90% off on past-season and overstock items obtained directly from high-end boutiques and department stores. They also work directly with designers to purchase their samples and overruns, so this is a great shop for one-of-a-kind pieces from designer brands at a fraction of the original price.

Hemline

3310 Magazine Street

This is just one of many outposts of the popular French Quarter boutique. There are eight stores in Louisiana alone, including a popular location in the French Quarter. Owner Brigitte Holthausen built her style empire starting in New Orleans in the early 90s, eventually ending up with 30 locations throughout the South. Hemline excels at expertly curating a rotating collection of covetable fashion from premium brands, luxe to casual, including high-quality denim, cocktail dresses, and shoes and accessories.

Buffalo Exchange 

4119 Magazine Street

A trendy nationwide chain that buys, sells and trades vintage and used clothing and accessories for men and women, Buffalo Exchange is a reliable stop for gear ranging from designer evening dresses to basics to funky accessories. Located on a bustling stretch of Magazine Street and surrounded by boutiques and restaurants, Buffalo Exchange is popular among locals and visitors alike. Thanks to its affordability and proximity to the Loyola and Tulane campuses, it’s also frequented by college students.

Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing & Costumes

4204 Magazine Street

Small but mighty, Miss Claudia’s is a goldmine filled with majorette boots, funky vintage costumes, wigs, dazzling accessories, and other everyday and festive essentials for your one-of-a-kind Halloween or Mardi Gras outfit. Follow the store on Instagram and see for yourself.

Magpie

4529 Magazine Street

Magpie is an absolute treasure trove of unique vintage items, from sparkling 1920s art deco engagement rings to the colorful 1960s caftans. Prices are surprisingly affordable for vintage and antique items in such good condition, and the cozy, wood-floored shop is as inviting as a friend’s living room. Out-of-towners who fall in love with Magpie can shop the store’s Etsy page once they return home — a visit to this boutique is only the beginning of a beautiful relationship.

Ashley Longshore

4537 Magazine Street

Join pop artist Ashley Longshore‘s legions of fans, which include 312,000-plus Instagram followers and clients like Blake Lively and Cher, when you visit her Uptown studio gallery. Longshore playfully skewers trophy wives, excess, designer labels, and celebrity in her work: butterfly-bedecked silhouettes of women, champagne bottles, renditions of media personalities like Anna Wintour, and sassy phrases. All in all, Longshore’s large-scale acrylic paintings mirror her personality: glittery, hilarious, and larger than life.

Babe

5007 Freret Street

Babe is one of very few retailers to open on the revitalized Freret Street corridor, which boasts a wealth of bars, restaurants and venues. While the nightlife is sparkling on the commercial stretch, the daytime shopping opportunities at this contemporary casual women’s boutique also are not to be missed. Find the perfect romper, chambray off-the-shoulder frock or statement jumpsuit at this bright and airy boutique (then wear it out on the town that night).

Victoria Boutique

5420 Magazine Street

Upscale, understated, and home to luxury designer brands, Victoria Boutique is the retail equivalent of Posh Spice. It’s the destination for New Orleans’ well-heeled crowd, boasting exclusive labels and high-end items. Shop at this gorgeous, sprawling boutique and you just may brush shoulders with a former Carnival queen.

Jeantherapy

5505 Magazine Street

This hip local chain is well stocked with enviable designer denim, plus things like graphic tees (JTees) for men, women, and kids. Think lots and lots of football-fan gear to represent your Saints/LSU pride. Jeantherapy has another location in metro New Orleans, at the Lakeside Mall.

Perlis

6070 Magazine Street

Perlis has been going strong since 1939 as a family-run clothier in Southern Louisiana, now with four locations including Baton Rouge and the Jax Brewery in the French Quarter. If you have a hankering for southern-style clothing Perlis has you covered with designer brands and made-to-measure items. The company caters heavily to men, but you’ll also find lots of clothing for women and kids, plus Louisiana-themed gifts. One of the best-known collections by Perlis features a crawfish logo — where you’ll find the famous mudbug gracing shorts, shirts, polos, socks, and wallets — very Louisiana.

Staying Fit on Magazine Street

Mike the Bike Guy

4411 Magazine Street

For bike rentals Uptown, try Mike the Bike Guy within cycling distance to Audubon Park, St. Charles Avenue, and the campuses of Tulane and Loyola universities.

Live Oak Yoga

6113 Magazine Street

Get your yoga fix at Live Oak Yoga, which occupies a lovely, sunlit space and offers private and group classes.

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