To experience the kind of only-in-New-Orleans-moments you came here for, there is no better place to be than the French Quarter where all the action takes place. This hotel combines a great location including a coveted central courtyard with all the tranquility you need to rest up before feteing all over again.
ABOUT
Unusually, for its prime French Quarter location, there is a real sense of privacy here, quietly tucked away on Chartres Street, the hotel feels like a hidden gem, with only 97 rooms.
THE ROOM
A funky modern art edge is the theme in my spacious room with its bright yellow walls, minimalist lines and agate artwork. But the real star here is the balcony. You can’t beat waking up, and staring down onto the magical French Quarter.
DINING
Walking to dinner at Sobu, an impromptu second line parade strolled past the hotel – these are the kinds of moments you could only experience here in the French Quarter. Inside, exposed brick, black and white checkerboard flooring and wooden furnishings make Sobu, created by the Commander’s Palace Family of restaurants, feel like a cozy Creole tavern with a cocktail program led by Bar Chef Laura Bellucci. A menu centred on Louisiana street food small plates created by Executive Chef Juan Carlos Gonzalez and Consulting Chef Tory McPhail include standouts like the herb roasted wild mushroom pate, sweet potato beignets with foie gras and chicory ganache, and finger licking Louisiana shrimp al ajillo infused with confit garlic and citrus, served in a hot cast iron skillet with a hunk of crusty Leidenheimer bread.
EXTRAS
The hotel’s courtyard is one of the prettiest in the city- complete with sweeping staircase, large outdoor pool, brickwork and the focal point three tier iron water/ fire feature. The hotel flawlessly balances the vivacity of the French Quarter with tranquillity. W French Quarter, 316 Chartres St, New Orleans.
3 SIGHTS TO EXPLORE IN THE FRENCH QUARTER
Experience the verve and unmistakable architecture of this incredible neighbourhood.
1/ The Presbytère
Part of the Louisiana State Museum and adjacent to St. Louis Cathedral, once the residence of capuchin monks it is now home to two exceptional exhibits: Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond and Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana.
2/ Pirate Alley
Two small alleyways located on either side of St. Louis cathedral once occupied by Andrew Jackson, Jean Lafitte and William Faulkner.
3/ Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
One of the oldest bars in America (built in 1722), said to be the smuggling centre for pirate Jean Lafitte, it is allegedly haunted.
This original hotel article first appeared in the Spring 2017 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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