• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Joy the Baker
Joy the Baker
  • Cookies
  • Bread
  • Cakes
  • Pies
  • Recipes
    • All Recipes
    • Cookies
    • Birthday Cake Recipes
    • Biscuits
    • Muffins
    • Cupcakes
    • Drinks
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Fruit
    • Nuts
    • Buttermilk
    • Chocolate
    • Vanilla
    • Holiday
    • Healthy
    • Gluten-Free
    • Vegan
  • Blog
    • Baking 101
    • Tips
    • Beyond the Kitchen
    • Let It Be Sunday!
    • New Orleans
  • Shop

New Orleans By Way of Chicago

April 27, 2022 by Abby Mallett 43 Comments

Have you ever been someplace your soul immediately responded to? That’s Chicago for me. Not everyone understands it and I genuinely like it that way. Chicago isn’t for everyone. It’s where my roots are, where my grandparents rest peacefully. The food in Chicago is the best in the world to me, and I will argue you down about it. It always seemed like my start and end would be there. Until I arrived in New Orleans. Stepping into the Marigny neighborhood, my insides said, “Oh I get it. I understand here.” 

Hotel Peter and Paul New Orleans
Elysian Bar New Orleans


I had been to New Orleans a couple times but accompanied by people, and while it was good it wasn’t amazing. Touring the city alone made me excited, and I’m grateful for Joy giving me the opportunity to do so. I stayed at the Hotel Peter & Paul – a converted Catholic church, school, convent and rectory turned hotel, bar, event space, and ice cream parlor. It is exactly what it should be – vintage, a little moody, and filled with stories. Arriving early, I settled in at the hotel’s bar, The Elysian Bar. The room is warm and cozy because of the curved amber bamboo wall surrounding the center of the room. A gentle breeze ruffled plaid curtains by the window. Feeling incredibly lucky, I ordered a Pimm’s cup and a light salad, smiling to myself the whole time.

Calling myself an adventurer would be a slight exaggeration. I definitely partake in adventuring but it is very planned. I’m checking the websites, I’m seeing if there’s parking, I’m reading the reviews and ignoring them. But catch me on vacation? Oh, you’re seeing a different Abby. There is a balance between seeing, doing, and relaxing on vacation. Vacation Abby is so chill, spontaneous even! You want to go for an impromptu walk? Say less! Recently though, my body has enjoyed letting me know it’s getting older very… forcefully.  Nonchalant exploration has been harder for me and anxiety inducing. Instead, I take my time, stop frequently, and wear these shoes. They’re a godsend.

breakfast at Alma in New Orleans
Loretta's Pralines in New Orleans


Inside my frequent stops I found gems. Colorful yet unassuming house siding holds historic homes and neighborhood eateries like Alma. It begs you to judge a book by its cover, and delivers a surprise every time. Houses that serve tacos with twinkle lights and heavy poured margaritas like Rosalita’s. Go pick up a Barq’s Root Beer at the corner store (specifically The Orange Store), only to find the best po’boy ever made in the back. Walk the neighborhood and find Loretta’s Authentic Pralines on Frenchmen & Rampart. Get a praline filled beignet. Grab a lot of napkins to wipe tears of unbridled joy and the mountain of powdered sugar that falls down into the front pocket of your overalls (me). Take the shakiest elevator ride up and over a bridge that leads you to the best view of the Mississippi River, where you feel small and part of it all at the same time. 

Life here moves at its own pace. If it wants to move fast, sure. If it wants to move slow, absolutely. If it doesn’t want to move at all? Mind your business. Stores that should be open might not be open. Know why? I think you’re getting the hang of the answer. My little bit of meandering led my findings to be correct. Even when I made my way to Joy, we ended up spontaneously ice dyeing shirts in her backyard before rolling about town leisurely. You take the pace as is. Even if the pace is backyard ice dyeing (which was so fun!).

 

New Orleans isn’t pretty. It’s old and beautiful. It reminds you of that fact when visiting – its Parisian roots reflect it. Grungey, graffitied, narrow… and perfect. I find myself in love with a city and its food for the first time outside of my hometown. I know I’ll be back over and over again.

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want to stop at Joy’s favorite spots, check them out here!

Previous PostNext Post

Filed Under: Beyond the Kitchen, New Orleans

Previous Post: «
Next Post: »

Reader Interactions

All Comments
I Made This
Questions
  1. Jen

    April 28, 2022 at 9:42 pm

    Oh how I love this! We’re city twins, but reversed – I’m a New Orleans native in Chicago and share your sentiments about both cities. I never thought I’d love or truly feel at home in another city like I do NOLA, until I moved to Chicago. Such different places, but complex and beautiful in their own way. And comfy shoes are a must for getting around both! :)

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 29, 2022 at 2:20 pm

      Omg I love this so much!!

      Reply
  2. Staci

    April 28, 2022 at 2:05 pm

    This is wonderful! I live in Chicago and knew I would LOVE New Orleans before I even went. When I finally got there, my love was solidified. Now I need to go back post haste!

    Reply
  3. Meagan

    April 28, 2022 at 1:43 pm

    Great post! I could feel the magic of New Orelans. I want to see your Ice Dye results!

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 1:54 pm

      I had to leave the ice dyed shirt there to get washed! So I would ALSO like to see the results, JOY WILSON *ahem*

      Reply
  4. toby

    April 28, 2022 at 1:40 pm

    oh, how I would love to meet Vacation Abby in NOLA sometime!

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 1:55 pm

      Oh my goodness I would love that! She’s a good time! She also WILL be taking a nap.

      Reply
  5. Katherine Ross

    April 28, 2022 at 1:33 pm

    PRALINE FILLED BEIGNET.

    Reply
  6. Amy

    April 28, 2022 at 1:16 pm

    Oh yes! 100%—thank you for saying it so well.

    Reply
  7. Gail

    April 28, 2022 at 1:01 pm

    Thank you for an unforgettable lunch time trip to New Orleans. Loved it.

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 2:08 pm

      Hi mama!! Thank you :)

      Reply
  8. Ed

    April 28, 2022 at 12:51 pm

    Felt like I was right there with her! Amazing use of words.

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 2:02 pm

      :) :) :) thanks Dad!

      Reply
  9. deb

    April 28, 2022 at 8:43 am

    Abby-I really really appreciated this post. How you described your time, the FOOD and your adventures in one of my favorite places in America! Im heading to Loretta’s one of the days I’m in town to eat and enjoy a chocolate praline…..
    Deb

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 1:57 pm

      Thank you so much! And I’m so excited for you over this beignet!

      Reply
  10. Kim

    April 28, 2022 at 8:05 am

    Oh man, I loved reading this. Also, lol me for not realizing you live in Chicago. Well, joke’s on them because I can drive to Chicago faster than I can drive to NOLA. See you soon? ?

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 1:58 pm

      South Side born and bred! Honestly, maybe I’ll come to you, it’s been a minute since I’ve been to Frothy Monkey!

      Reply
      • Catherine Short

        April 30, 2022 at 1:49 pm

        Yes, please come to TN :-) AND I live right by a Frothy!

        Reply
  11. Honey

    April 28, 2022 at 7:53 am

    Do check out 3 Southern Girls restaurant, right outside of NOLA in Old Jefferson! The smell and feels are like stepping into your grandma’s home after church on Sundays!

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 1:59 pm

      Honey, noted and archived! I’ll make sure to check it out – thank you!

      Reply
  12. Linda

    April 28, 2022 at 7:45 am

    Abby, your voice as a writer welcomes the reader like an old friend!

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 2:00 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  13. Ramona

    April 28, 2022 at 5:51 am

    Loved reading this! I’m ready to travel to New Orleans!

    Reply
    • connie dunfield

      April 28, 2022 at 9:57 am

      Ramona, I was born in New Orleans. Please check the weather before you go, the heat & humidity, it’s like walking through a “wet wool blanket”. Also, use the Streetcars they’ll take you through the French Quarters and The Garden District. I really enjoyed Abby’s article, she said it well! My favorite sandwich in the FQ’s is the Muffuletta at Central Grocery & Deli.

      Reply
      • Ramona

        April 28, 2022 at 4:18 pm

        Thanks, Connie, I’ve lived in South Texas and currently in Oklahoma City so I’m familiar with humidity! Lol! I screenshot your reply so I can keep the information of the street cars! Thank you so much ??

        Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 2:01 pm

      I hope you do soon! Please PLEASE stay at the Hotel Peter & Paul. It makes the entire trip so dreamy!

      Reply
  14. Sunshine

    April 28, 2022 at 5:21 am

    Abby, I could read your writing all day, Thanks for this “offering” as Joy often calls it.

    Reply
  15. Kristen

    April 28, 2022 at 4:48 am

    Love this writing! I absolutely relate to the adventure side when traveling and exploring… but yeah I’m reading all the reviews too! Thank you for sharing Abby! May our sensible shoes take us far.

    Reply
    • Abby Mallett

      April 28, 2022 at 2:02 pm

      Thank you so much! Sensible shoes have saved me. It’s TEVA’s and Chaco’s all summer!

      Reply
Newer Comments »

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

RELATED POSTS IN Beyond the Kitchen

Oscars 2023 Party Menu

Since I was raised on movies, the Oscars ceremony is my Super Bowl. I look forward to it all year long and always try to watch all the contenders. Of course I’m in it for the films, the celebs, and the clothes. But I also love a good theme party—who doesn’t? My ideal Oscars party…

Read More

Fat Tuesday aka Paczki Day

Happy Fat Tuesday everyone! We’ve arrived at the day before Lent, where everyone loses their minds and indulges before 40 days of meatless Mondays and fish fry Fridays. Chicago, while having faith from all corners of the world, is an incredibly Catholic-centric city – kind of like New Orleans. Growing up non-denominational Christian I never…

Read More

New Year, New Orleans

If you can spend a holiday away from home, do it. Christmas on a beach with a cocktail? Yes, please. Santa can bring his swim trunks! This year I decided to ring in the new year in New Orleans, my favorite place outside of Chicago, with my girlfriend Breyon. A bae-cation, if you will. We…

Read More

Primary Sidebar

Fresh baked emails, delivered to your inbox

Receive recipes from Joy the Baker and updates on events at The Bakehouse.

HI! I’M JOY!

Welcome! This has been my little corner of the internet since 2008!

I’m a baker, photographer, cookbook author and teacher.  I live laugh love in New Orleans. 

MORE ABOUT JOY AND THE TEAM

BOOKS + Magazines

JOY THE BAKER 2022 SUMMER MAGAZINE

JOY THE BAKER 2021 HOLIDAY MAGAZINE

JOY THE BAKER 2020 HOLIDAY MAGAZINE

HOMEMADE DECADENCE

OVER EASY: SWEET AND SAVORY RECIPES FOR LEISURELY DAYS COOKBOOK

JOY THE BAKER COOKBOOK

joy the baker on facebook joy the baker on twitter pinterest-social instagram-socialbloglovin-social

JOY @ WILLIAMS SONOMA

SHOP THE CAKE LINE OF CAKE MIXES!

DRAKE ON CAKE

Passionate from miles away since 2015.

Check it out on Instagram

Drake on cake instagram.

 

BREADS YOU’LL LOVE

jambalaya buttermilk biscuits in a row

Smoked Sausage Jambalaya Buttermilk Biscuits

inside of warm cinnamon roll on plate

How To Make The Best Single Serve Cinnamon Roll

Orange roll on a plate with a fork.

Christmas Morning Orange Rolls

LET’S MAKE COOKIES!

wider shot of lemon bars stacked on a plate with a bite taken out of one lemon bar

My Favorite Classic Lemon Bars Recipe

completed recipe close up shot of a blondie so the toasted almonds, chocolate chips, and sea salt can be seen

My Best Classic Blondie Recipe

cowboy cookies close up showing texture.

Cowboy Cookies with salted cereal brittle

Footer

Instagram

joythebaker

📚Baker and author of books and magazines
🎂Creator @drakeoncake
💁🏻‍♀️Classes with me @thebakehousenola
🍰 Products with @williamssonoma

joythebaker
Life Skill No. 458: How to Make 1️⃣2️⃣ Cup Life Skill No. 458: How to Make 1️⃣2️⃣ Cupcakes with just 1️⃣ Stick of Butter⁣
⁣
Full recipe linked in my bio! xo
Someone call @foodnetwork because Dad and I need a Someone call @foodnetwork because Dad and I need a baking show stat. Here’s our very best chocolate chip cookies and all the little tips that make them perfection. ✨🍪 Find the full recipe linked in the profile!
We’re baking the classics on Joy the Baker this We’re baking the classics on Joy the Baker this month and up next, my very favorite Lemon Bar recipe with fresh lemon juice and the tiniest hint of coriander. ⁣🍋🌼✨
⁣
Find the full recipe linked in the profile and bust out the white chocolate and macadamia nuts for next week’s bake! ⁣
⁣
#lemonbars #easybaking #bakedfromscratch #joythebaker
Day in the Life: out in the woods writing a little Day in the Life: out in the woods writing a little cookbook about camp food. 💖🏕️🙋🏻‍♀️
Homesick Banana Bread. Recipe linked in the profil Homesick Banana Bread. Recipe linked in the profile (and you don’t have to be homesick to make it). #bananabread #sundaybaking
Let’s make one single GIANT PANCAKE which is the Let’s make one single GIANT PANCAKE which is the perfect Breakfast Dessert or Spiral Bake - whatever you need it to be. ⁣
⁣
Pro Tips: Smell you buttermilk and decide it’s probably fine. Flip the pancake with reckless confidence. You can sit to eat - you don’t have to eat like you work in a restaurant anymore. ⁣
⁣
Find a version of the full recipe linked in the profile. Xo.
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2023 · Joy the Baker
All rights reserved. Violators will be whupped and sent to bed with no dessert · Privacy Policy

Scroll Up