Without a doubt, every new visitor in New Orleans needs to spend time in the French Quarter. To those looking for a more in-depth local experience, however, this heavy tourist attraction begins to lose its allure. Just a few blocks away from the drunk and obnoxious frat boy-inhabited Bourbon St., is a more genuine Big Easy aura. Frenchmen Street is where the locals mosey during the day and get a feast of life after dark. Walking the extra fraction of a mile will save any traveler from the typical tourist-packed shops and restaurants that can rob them the chance of getting to truly know New Orleans.
History
Just a few blocks east of the edge of the Quarter, Frenchmen Street lies within the Fauborg Marigny neighborhood and forms a triangle with Esplanade Avenue as it approaches the river due south. This portion of the city was once plantation land under the ownership of a Creole gentleman who was noted for his extravagant and colorful taste in architecture and decor.
Culture
Frenchmen Street is the center of New Orleans culture and nightlife at its most outrageous. During the day, the lower four blocks are canvassed with street musicians and tattooed art vendors and book traders while at night the air is filled with the breath of jazz and reggae sounds. Also, if New Orleans architecture and exterior decor wasn't outrageous enough, the eye popping colors and decorations of the street's dwellings will give any newcomer an aesthetic overdose. In a part of the city where the strange and unique rule highest, Frenchmen Street and its surroundings is also the center of New Orleans' GLBT culture.
Music
Frenchmen Street follows the live music trend like the rest of New Orleans, but lends its own flavor into the mix.
- Apple Barrel: Showcases local blues and R&B musicians.
- The Blue Nile Nightclub: With a colorful interior and exterior, this venue hosts local, national and international artists.
- Cafe Negril: Both the music and menu reflect a heavy Caribbean influence.
- Check Point Charlie's: This casual spot has a laundromat in the back and boasts a diverse musical lineup.
- D.B.A.: The long beer list and outstanding acoustics make this spot a favorite among locals.
- Dragon's Den: Located above the Siam Cafe, the low lights and the pillow floor seating give this place the ultimate funky vibe.
- Spotted Cat: This blue lit dive is the perfect spot to listen and dance to the best of local jazz.
Eating
In addition to its high melodic doses, Frenchmen Street is home to tasty eateries and cafes that cater to those craving both local and international cuisines.
- Adolfo's: This spot serves a delicious blend of Creole and Italian cuisines.
- Mona's Cafe: A local favorite spot for Middle Eastern dining.
- Snug Harbor: This spot provide both savory burger and steaks along with jiving live music.
- Marigny Brasserie: The top restaurant around for contemporary Creole cuisine.
- Three Muses: Spanish Mediterranean and live blues under one roof.
- Praline Connection: Traditional Southern Soul food in a not so traditional setting.
Additional Information
- Frenchmen Street has an active nightlife all days of the week, even on Mondays.
- The venues, bars and cafes on Frenchmen Street are cheaper than their French Quarter counterparts.
- Tip the bands, it's what keeps them coming back.
- If you're in town for Mardi Gras, live it up on Frenchment Street rather than Bourbon Street.
Elizabeth Pelz - This aspiring visual anthropologist utilizes her research, travel, cultural interests and love of writing to relay information to ...
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