Happy Mardi Gras! #NOLAadventure

As promised, here's a look back at last year's New Orleans adventure!

The Ruby Slipper Cafe on Magazine Street is a must try. Don't be turned off by the long wait- it's so worth it! I had the poached eggs hollandaise and pan seared catfish over grit cakes and sauteed spinach and tomatoes with shrimp. Amazing down to the last bite!

The world famous Cafe Du Monde is best known for their beignets- fluffy squares of fried dough doused in powdered sugar. Their cafe au lait is the perfect pairing. at the Decataur Street location, you can eat inside the tent with table service, or brave the lengthy window line. There is another location along the riverwalk at the outlets that typically does not have a line, but it's just not the same!

If you opt for the to-go version, take to the steps for a snack with a view of the beautiful Jackson Square.

Nearby at the French Market, there is Central Grocery- the home of the Muffuletta. What is a Muffuletta? Much more than just a funny name. It is a sandwich the size of your head. A flat italian loaf is piled high with olive tapenade, mortadella, salami, ham, mozzarella and provolone.

You can order a whole, if you're eating for four, or you can order a half or a quarter. The half is more than a meal for one person. Someone with a normal sized stomach would probably opt for the quarter...

This is a great option if you are traveling on a budget. Don't be expecting fancy digs though- this is a mom and pop counter service deli.

If you're looking for a fancier meal at a price that won't empty your pocket, try Emeril Lagasse's NOLA Restaurant for lunch. I had the Pork Cheek Po'Boy, which unfortunately no longer appears to be on the menu, but was super tasty. This two story restaurant overlooking St. Louis St. in the French Quarter makes a great date spot.

If you're looking for more traditional Louisiana cookin', try Olde 'Nawlings Cookery on Bourbon Street. The sampler platter gives you a healthy tasting of Gumbo, Crawfish Etoufee, and Red Beans and Rice. I had to try out the alligator bites, which really did just taste like chewy chicken. My sister Marissa refused to touch them. Her loss- I can at least say I tried! She opted for the Catfish and Chips. What a weenie!

I give her credit though. Until recently, Marissa's eating habits were that of a rabbit. She's branched out this past year and I am very thankful and proud of her. This was one of her first adventures into exploring the wonderful world of seafood- Crabcake and Mac and Cheese from the Zulu Lundi Gras Celebration on the riverfront.

Le Bayou Restaurant on Bourbon Street offered a simple and delicious Fried Shrimp Po'Boy. Mmm!

Our hotel, Le Pavillon, was not only beautiful, but offered a true glimpse of southern hospitality. At 10pm every night, the hotel has a tradition of treating their guests to a complimentary PB&J Bar. The variety of breads, jams and peanut butters were a great treat. Hot Chocolate with fresh whipped cream and assorted fresh fruits were also available.

Now for the happy hour portion of our post... It wouldn't be NOLA without the drinks! Below are the Bourbon Street goodies that we loved. And remember- you can take it to-go!

Frozen Daiquiris at Fat Tuesday