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 Joe Alicata is a 2009 graduate of Northport High School, he has his B.A. in Public Administration from the University at Albany. Joe works in the insurance industry, and has recently moved to Brooklyn. He can be reached at etrestaurants@gmail.com |
| For years, my father traveled the country for work. He has been to more states than I can count, including making it to North Dakota and back before I made it home from high school, impressive right? Throughout all of his travels, there were a handful of cities that he told me I had to make it to at some point in my life. On top of that list was New Orleans. At long last, I was finally able to make my way down to the Crescent City and see what it’s all about. Whether you are interested in food (yes), history (yes), art (yes), music (yes), or just being able to drink in public without fear of arrest, New Orleans has something to offer you. My visit started at The Bulldog Midtown on Magazine Street, a dimly lit local bar with a good vibe and awesome selection of beers. We happened to arrive on pint night, which means not only are there $5 pint specials, but you get your beer in a sassy pint glass which you get to keep with sayings like “The cause and solution to all of life’s problems (with beer mugs on either side of the text)” scrawled on the side. After two or so hours there with a handful of friends, you can likely open your own bar or stock a new apartment with glassware no problem. The Bulldog also features a beautiful patio adorned with a unique stone fountain adorned with numerous tap handles which add charm and also remind you why you are there: to drink and socialize. A must see if you are in the area. There are of course staples in the New Orleans food scene, like Café Du’Monde which has operated since 1862 serving world famous beignets doused in powdered sugar, along with chicory coffee. The café operates 24 hours a day, so you should have no problem finding the time to stop on in and enjoy a delicious beignet. Or Camellia Grill, in the Carrolton section of the city. First opened in 1946, Camellia offers diners a step back in time. With counter service the only option for seating, diners are treated to a lineup of diner classics from oversized omelettes, to French toast, pancakes and rib sticking milkshakes. The final locale I will leave you with, is not a food joint at all. It is the drink that takes center stage. The Old New Orleans Rum Co. founded by renowned artist James Michalopoulos and using locally sourced sugar cane, Old New Orleans Rum Co. turns out some delicious and unique products. Outside of their delicious crystal, amber and Cajun spiced rums, there is my favorite: Gingeroo. A carbonated cocktail, Gingeroo combines crystal rum with cayenne, ginger juice and cane syrup. The result is a refreshing, distinct and delicious drink which is perfect on a hot afternoon or to nurse a bitter hangover. I wish I had more space to explain the many places New Orleans has to offer. This spatial issue means only one thing: you best get yourself down to NOLA and check it out for yourself. |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 