Though Mardi Gras isn’t officially until Tuesday, New Orleans has been buzzing in anticipation for the last few weeks. Festivities kicked off on January 6 and the Big Easy is certainly one of the liveliest places in the US right now. That said, the city is great year-round. It’s a dining destination, of course, but there are a number of boutique hotels that any design-lover would be happy to call home for a few nights. And did we mention the shopping? Start the slideshow for a few of our favs.
From Food to Design, This is the Ultimate New Orleans Guide

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At this 18-room boutique hotel, the rich history of New Orleans meets modern-day design and luxurious amenities. It was constructed in 1867 as a double-gallery townhouse by famed-architect Henry Howard, and many of the original design elements are still standing.

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Located in the Garden District, the Henry Howard is a welcome respite from the energetic French Quarter.

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The four buildings that make up this one-of-a-kind hotel used to be a Catholic church and school. Local developer Nathalie Jordi worked with ASH, a NYC-based design and development firm, to bring the vacant structures back to life.

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Here, no two rooms are alike. Many of the original details have been carefully preserved, while a combination of vintage and custom furniture blend together to create an aesthetic that’s a fresh take on Southern design.

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An elegant option for those wanting to experience New Orleans like a local. This three story Italianate stucco-over-brick mansion features porches, galleries, and balconies framed in ornate cast iron and a brick New Orleans courtyard complete with several fountains and lush vegetation.

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Terrell House is a fantastic location for families wanting to stay together, or couples searching for their perfect wedding venue.

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This luxury hotel has been named the #1 hotel in New Orleans by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2019 Reader’s Choice Awards two years in a row. It’s uniquely New Orleans, with old-school charm and top of the line amenities.

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Even if you don’t stay here, we suggest checking out one of their four restaurant and bar options, including a new rooftop bar and lounge known for its epic view.

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For the last 3 years, Marcus Jacobs and Caitlin Carney have brought Southeast Asian flavors and cooking techniques to Mid-City. Inspired by their travels in Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, the pair uses local, seasonal ingredients native to New Orleans and the Gulf. Though Nola is known for its long-established dining classics, this newbie proves it has culinary staying power.

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The menu changes daily, but often features crawfish, Louisiana hot-fried chicken, and lemongrass fried catfish.

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Located in the Garden District, Commander’s Palace is one of the Big Easy’s most iconic dining landmarks — they’ve won seven James Beard Foundation Awards! It’s a go-to destination for Haute Creole cuisine, beautiful decor (the Garden Room is a dream), and whimsical Louisiana charm. The restaurant famously offers 25 cent martinis at lunch. 3 is the limit, so drink up!

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District is so much more than your average donut shop. The hotspot is also known for savory sliders, biscuits and kolaches. Everything is made from scratch and the coffee is their own: District sources and roasts beans through their own brand, Cool Kids Coffee Roasters.

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Locals love this wine bar for their fights of sparkling wine, which allow guests to explore regions, themes, styles or producers of bubbles. It’s a casual-but-cut spot, housed in a 1890s Victorian center-hall cottage just on the edge of the French Quarter.

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NOCHI is a private, non-profit culinary school founded by New Orleans’ hospitality trailblazers such as Ti Martin and Dickie Brennan. The goal is to make culinary school accessible and affordable for the masses, offering a 5-month intensive program. For the hobby chef, NOCHI offers enthusiast courses to those that want to train like a pro and have fun while doing it.

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Come for the interior design, stay for the craft cocktails and poulet pané. Opened by husband-and-wife team Justin and Mia Devillier, this French Quarter newbie perfectly blends the sophistication of Parisian brasseries with the playfulness of the South’s most lively district.




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Pop artist Ashley Longshore is a New Orleans staple, bringing her eccentric, charismatic, over-the-top-in-the-best-way personality to each and every piece she creates — from glittery, 3D paintings to giant sculptures. Don’t miss an opportunity to see Ashley’s recent work in person at her Magazine Street studio.

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Also on Magazine Street, this luxury boutique has a nice collection of ready to wear, shoes, accessories, and beauty. With pieces from Ganni, Rochas, and Lizzie Fortunato, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got space in your suitcase.
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