Welcome to another edition of my mini-series that features birthday celebrations and ideas about how to celebrate the occasion in different cities! This year I celebrated my birthday in New Orleans! It was such a memorable experience that I decided to split the post into two parts: Food and Fun (although, yall know that my idea of fun usually includes food). Just writing this post has my stomach growling…

Here are some food suggestions for a birthday spent in New Orleans:

Salon by Sucré

Sucré is known for their delicious desserts. However, they should be known for their delicious brunch option in the restaurant located upstairs in the French Quarter location. At the Salon by Sucré, we took advantage of the bottomless mimosa option and enjoyed the décor while we waited for our food.

Can I just say BEST. CHICKEN AND WAFFLES. EVER!??! Literally they were so good that I went back before I checked out of the hotel to place a to-go order. The sandwich-like structure comes with a semi-spicy sauce instead of the traditional maple syrup. I’ve never had chicken and waffles that tasted this good in my life.

New Orleans Creole Cookery

We actually stumbled across this restaurant through Groupon and I am so happy that we did. We were seated in the courtyard which featured a fountain and had a French vibe. The food arrived and I was immediately transported to another time, aided by the music playing softly in the background. I think my exact words to my friends were “Yall don’t even exist right now…I’m in a different world.” Crawfish étouffée is one of my favorite Cajun dishes, and New Orleans Creole Cookery did not disappoint. I also ordered a side of hush puppies because who doesn’t love fried cornbread?

Brennan’s

If you are looking for a gorgeous, fine dining experience, then Brennan’s is the place to go. The Brennan family own and operate many different restaurants, each with its own history. While the food was delicious, the dessert was my absolute favorite. The staff was very knowledgeable and volunteered history of the desserts (get the banana foster! It’s made tableside!) and the rooms in the building.

Unfortunately, some of the rooms had parties in them, so were refrained from entering. However, check out the décor of the rooms that we did see!

The fountain behind me had live turtles!! So cute!

Brennan’s, located in the French Quarter, really knew how to make my birthday special. They brought me out a candle lit crème brûlée and gave be an apron with their logo on it!

Dat Dog

If you are a hotdog fan, then this is a must stop! There are a couple of locations in New Orleans, but we visited the Dat Dog on Frenchmen Street. I’m almost happy that I don’t have pictures to display my loaded Vaucresson hot sausage. They have specialty hotdogs and you can build your own (my preferred option). I also got a side of WTF! fries which were loaded with chili, cheese, tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, AND guacamole (which I gave to Caroline haha). The best part was that this location had a balcony that faced the street. To our delight, an impromptu brass band began to play on the street corner. Such a great, low-key night of music and food.

If you are planning a birthday celebration (or visit) to New Orleans, then these are a few places that you should definitely have on your list! Bon Appétit!

♥ Cierra