A few days in New Orleans

I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas with their families and are gearing up for a fun New Year's.

Whether you're planning a big dinner for your favorite people, traveling to a new place, going out on the town until the wee hours or simply snuggling up with the one you love -- I hope it's everything you want it to be.

We just returned from a few relaxing days in New Orleans.

The weather was great - sunny and 55. The city was PACKED with tourists, both young and old. We slept in every morning and stayed out late each night.

It's safe to say that we ate and drank the city out of house and home. This isn't to say that we were experiencing our own personal Mardi Gras, it's just that when you're in NOLA, there's always a reason to have an afternoon cocktail, an Abita Amber or glass of wine. You nestle into a dark booth in a place as unique as the Napoleon House and suddenly, it's dinner time!

Speaking of dinner, this being my second trip to "the big easy," I chose to steer us toward some of the classic, well-known culinary spots. If you're planning a trip to New Orleans any time soon - like my friend Stephanie is - I highly recommend making a reservation at Restaurant August.

One of my co-workers mentioned how much she loved their tasting menu and knowing her good taste, I booked a table for us as soon as we got into town. It turned out to be fantastic. The food was exquisite, the wine my favorite part (!!) and the decor just as I would want it if I had a my own restaurant -- simple white table clothes, brick walls and antique chandeliers. Nothing too fancy, but classic. (see pic above)

I could go on and on about a number of other places, but I'll end with mentioning one of my all-time favorite bars, d.b.a. Next door to the famous Snug Harbor and across the street from The Spotted Cat - two great places to hear terrific jazz and blues - d.b.a. has an awesome beer selection, booths tucked away in corners that are tough to find, live music and, oh yes, an all-wood decor. You know I'm such a sucker for all-wood bars!

Thanks for following me on my first year of blogging! You've all been so supportive.

Happy New Year's!