There are certain cities that feel less like a destination and more like an experience for the soul—and for me, New Orleans is one of them.
Stepping into the French Quarter feels like stepping into another world: a place where history lingers in the architecture, jazz drifts through the streets, and every corner invites you to slow down and savor life.
I recently had the most romantic trip there, and it completely swept me off my feet. From charming boutique hotels to candlelit dinners tucked away on cobblestone streets, everything was within walking distance, making it feel both intimate and magical.
In this guide, I’m sharing where to stay, the restaurants that became instant favorites, and the unforgettable little moments that made me fall in love with the French Quarter.
Whether you’re planning a dreamy getaway or just looking for inspiration, I hope you’ll see why this city has a way of capturing your heart forever.
For a detailed recap of my trip, listen to this podcast episode:
WHERE TO STAY:
Where to Stay: Hotel Monteleone
When it comes to capturing the heart and soul of the French Quarter, no place does it quite like the Hotel Monteleone. This historic gem is more than just a hotel—it’s an experience. Built in 1886 and rumored to be haunted, it carries with it a sense of mystery and charm that makes your stay feel straight out of a storybook.
Charming & Historic Atmosphere: The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with old-world glamour—plush, traditional décor, glittering chandeliers, and details that feel timeless. It’s the kind of place where you instantly want to dress up just to wander the hallways.
Exceptional Service: Every single interaction felt warm, welcoming, and thoughtful. The staff has a way of making you feel like the hotel is your own private mansion in the Quarter.
The Pool Vibe: The rooftop pool was an unexpected highlight—sparkling, lively, and such a fun scene. With sweeping views of the city, it’s the perfect spot to sip a cocktail and watch the world go by.
The Famous Carousel Bar: This is truly the crown jewel of the Monteleone. The bar itself is a moving carousel (yes, it actually spins), and it’s one of the most beloved staples in New Orleans nightlife. Order an espresso martini (hands down the best in the city) and don’t skip their truffle fries—you’ll thank me later.
💡 Insider Tip: The Carousel Bar is always buzzing, no matter the time of day. If you want to snag a coveted seat at the rotating bar itself, the best strategy is simple: make friends with the bartender.
That’s what we did—ordered a drink, lingered nearby, and chatted until a seat opened up. It made the whole experience feel even more special (and trust me, it’s worth the wait).
Staying here gave our trip such a magical, romantic energy. From the history to the views to the buzzing social scene, Hotel Monteleone is the kind of place that becomes part of your love story with New Orleans.
Where to Eat in the French Quarter:
One of the greatest joys of visiting New Orleans is that the city practically invites you to eat your way through it—and nowhere is that more true than the French Quarter. Every meal feels like part of the experience: a mix of history, flavor, and a little bit of magic.
Whether it’s sipping iced coffee in the morning at a charming café, lingering over brunch in a sun-dappled courtyard, or ending the night with a cocktail in a sultry, velvet-clad bar, the food and drink here have a way of becoming part of your love story with the city.
On our trip, we discovered so many incredible spots—each with its own personality and flavor. Below are the restaurants and bars that truly stood out, all within walking distance of where we stayed, and each one offering something unforgettable. From classic French Quarter staples to hidden gems and new favorites, here’s where to eat (and drink!) when you want to taste the best of New Orleans.
BREAKFAST AT Café Beignet
No trip to New Orleans is complete without starting your morning at Café Beignet. Tucked right in the French Quarter, this charming little café feels like stepping into a Parisian postcard—quaint, cozy, and full of that easygoing New Orleans charm.
While the beignets are, of course, iconic, what really surprised me was how incredible the iced coffee was. Honestly, one of the best I’ve ever had. Pair it with one of their fluffy breakfast omelets and you’ll be perfectly fueled for a day of wandering through the Quarter.
Lunch at Sylvain
Nestled on a quiet street in the French Quarter, Sylvain feels like one of those hidden gems you stumble upon and instantly fall in love with. It’s equal parts cozy and chic, with a relaxed charm that makes it the perfect midday escape. The cocktail menu is fabulous—order one of their spritzes and you’ll see why it’s a local favorite.
We couldn’t resist the French fries, which were truly out of this world (crispy, golden, and dangerously addictive). For my main, I had the peach fried chicken salad, and it was every bit as dreamy as it sounds—fresh, flavorful, and a little unexpected in the best way.
💡 Insider Tip: If the weather is nice, ask for a table on the patio—it feels like your own secret garden hideaway in the middle of the French Quarter.
Brunch at Café Amelie
If you’re looking for a brunch spot that feels like pure New Orleans magic, Café Amelie is it. Tucked inside a historic French Quarter carriage house, the restaurant spills out into one of the most enchanting courtyards in the city.
The colorful French-inspired décor and lush greenery make it the kind of place where you’ll want to linger long after your meal. The cocktail game here is strong—think refreshing spritzes and spicy Bloody Marys that will wake you right up.
💡 Insider Tip: While the breakfast dishes aren’t the standout, do yourself a favor and order the shrimp & grits along with the shrimp appetizer. Both are bursting with flavor and will make your brunch here absolutely unforgettable.
Happy Hour at French 75
For a happy hour that feels straight out of a glamorous Parisian evening, French 75 is the place to be. Known as the birthplace of the classic French 75 cocktail, this intimate bar captures the essence of old-world sophistication with a sultry New Orleans twist.
The space is decadent—sumptuous décor, warm lighting, and the hum of live jazz that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. Naturally, the French 75s here are perfection, but don’t skip the food: the deviled eggs, tuna tartare, and perfectly crisp potatoes were standouts.
Dinner at Antoine’s
For a truly romantic New Orleans dinner, Antoine’s is a must. Established in 1840, it’s the oldest family-run restaurant in the U.S., and dining here feels like stepping back in time—grand dining rooms, white tablecloths, and an air of timeless elegance.
We began our evening at the Hermes Bar, where the vibe is lively yet refined. A signature martini set the tone perfectly, paired with oysters to start. And not just any oysters—their grilled and baked oysters were hands-down the best thing on the menu, brimming with rich, buttery flavor.
For dinner, we surprised ourselves and went with the burgers, and they turned out to be just as incredible as the classics.
💡 Insider Tip: Start with a drink at the Hermes Bar before your reservation—it’s the best way to ease into the full Antoine’s experience and ensures you don’t miss out on their oysters, which are worth the visit alone. Also, dress up!
Dinner at Orleans Grapevine
Of all the meals we enjoyed in New Orleans, Orleans Grapevine was hands-down my favorite. Tucked away just steps from Bourbon Street, this spot feels like a hidden sanctuary—a perfect blend of French Quarter charm and elevated dining.
Their courtyard seating is absolutely the place to be: romantic, intimate, and glowing under string lights. We started the evening with their signature martinis, which set the perfect tone, and then moved on to the fish of the day—cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Every single bite felt thoughtful and unforgettable.
💡 Insider Tip: Make a reservation and request a table in the courtyard. It’s the most magical way to enjoy the atmosphere, and it turns dinner into a truly memorable experience.
Late-Night Cocktails at Bar Marilou - salon salon
If you’re in the mood for something playful, sexy, and a little bit mysterious, make your way to Bar Marilou. One of the French Quarter’s newer hotspots, it’s tucked away inside the Maison de la Luz hotel and feels like a secret worth discovering.
The décor is bold, whimsical, and wildly Instagram-worthy—think jewel-toned velvet, vintage bookshelves, and Parisian flair in every corner. The cocktails are just as artful, crafted with unexpected ingredients that make every sip feel like an adventure.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to dress up, lean into the romance of the city, and stay out just a little later than planned.
💡 Insider Tip: Try to snag a seat in one of the cozy nooks—it makes the whole experience feel even more intimate and special. And don’t be shy about asking the bartender for a recommendation; their craft cocktails are always on point.
Where to Shop in the French Quarter
If there’s one thing I adore about the French Quarter (besides the food), it’s the shopping. The neighborhood is filled with hidden gems, from couture boutiques to antique shops brimming with history. Every stop feels like a treasure hunt—you never know what one-of-a-kind piece you’ll stumble upon.
Vintage 329 – Designer Cocktail-Worthy Finds
Nestled on Royal Street in the heart of the French Quarter, Vintage 329 is your go-to haven for exquisite vintage Chanel and designer jewelry. In fact, it boasts the largest collection of authentic vintage Chanel jewelry in the entire United States—right here in New Orleans!
This boutique is a treasure trove of elegance and style, showcasing timeless pieces from Chanel, YSL, Miriam Haskell, Bakelite, and other iconic names in designer vintage fashion.
Whether you're hunting for a delicate brooch, a statement necklace, or a pair of earrings with history, Vintage 329 captures the romance and craftsmanship of fashion’s golden eras.
Fleur de Paris Hats
If there’s one shop that feels like it was made for a romantic French Quarter stroll, it’s Fleur de Paris Hats. This boutique is pure enchantment—part couture salon, part fashion fantasy.
Inside, you’ll find an exquisite collection of one-of-a-kind dresses, tailored jackets, couture hats, handbags, and accessories that make you feel like you’ve stepped right into a Paris runway moment. Every piece is special, beautifully made, and utterly unique.
I found the most perfect dress and earrings here—pieces that felt as though they’d been waiting just for me. It’s truly every girl’s dream boutique, the kind of place where you leave with not just something to wear, but something to treasure.
💡 Insider Tip: Don’t rush through this shop. Take your time trying things on, chatting with the staff, and soaking up the artistry of each piece. If you’re celebrating something special (like a romantic trip), this is the perfect place to treat yourself to a forever keepsake. Ask for Ashley!
Moss Antiques
For a taste of New Orleans history through objects, Moss Antiques is a must-visit. This classic French Quarter antique shop is filled with timeless treasures, but the real showstopper is their incredible collection of oyster plates.
As someone who adores vintage and antique finds, walking through this shop felt like stepping into a carefully curated museum—only here, you get to bring a piece of history home. From fine furniture to delicate glassware, every corner is filled with something special.
💡 Insider Tip: If you’re hunting for oyster plates (a true collector’s item), this is the place to start your collection—or add to it. The staff is wonderfully knowledgeable and happy to share the stories behind the pieces, which makes shopping here feel like a conversation with the past.
Hemline
If you’re looking for a mix of trendy and timeless, Hemline is always a go-to. I already loved shopping Hemline in Texas, but the French Quarter location completely blew me away. It’s huge—spanning three bustling sections—and filled with everything from chic everyday staples to statement pieces that feel perfectly on-trend.
I ended up finding a couple of the cutest outfits here that I can’t wait to wear all fall. It’s the kind of store where you walk in just “to browse” and inevitably leave with a bag (or two) of new favorites.
💡 Insider Tip: You can bring your husband or boyfriend, they have excellent seating & they’ll pour you both champagne!
Romantic Things to Do in the French Quarter (Beyond Eating & Drinking)
New Orleans is a city made for romance, and beyond the incredible food and cocktails, there are so many experiences that make the French Quarter unforgettable. Here are a few of my favorites:
💛 Stroll the French Quarter – Wander hand in hand through cobblestone streets and admire the gorgeous historic architecture that makes this neighborhood feel like another era.
💛 Take a Streetcar Ride on Canal Street – There’s something so nostalgic and romantic about gliding along Canal Street on a vintage streetcar. It’s an easy way to see more of the city while soaking in the charm together.
💛 Visit the WWII Museum – A surprisingly romantic experience, this museum was moving and memorable—we were truly blown away by the history and storytelling.
💛 Walk Through the Parks – From the charm of Jackson Square to the beauty of Lafayette Park and Audubon Park, each green space feels like a little oasis for slowing down together.
💛 Catch a Second Line – If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a joyful second line parade in the streets—complete with brass bands and dancing. It’s spontaneous, celebratory, and pure New Orleans magic.
Final Thoughts on the French Quarter
New Orleans has a way of stealing your heart, and for me, the French Quarter was pure magic from start to finish. From our romantic stay at the historic Hotel Monteleone, to unforgettable dinners under twinkling courtyard lights, to wandering shops filled with treasures, every moment felt like something out of a storybook. There’s truly no place else like it—rich in history, alive with music, and brimming with charm at every turn.
I already can’t wait to plan my next trip back, because this is the kind of city that keeps calling you to return. ✨
Have you been to New Orleans? I’d love to hear your tips, favorite restaurants, hidden shops, or must-do experiences. Share them in the comments below—I’ll be adding them to my list for my next visit!
