And did I mention the food in Nola?

I don’t allow my limited teacher’s budget to stop me from eating well in my hometown and neither should you. Here are some humble suggestions for great French Quarter dining on a budget.

During a break from the sessions, grab a muffaletta, a Sicilian masterpiece sandwich of various meats, cheeses, and olive salad at Central Grocery Store on Decatur St. Get it to go and take it across the street to the levee on the river. Listen to the calliope of the paddle wheelers as you have the best picnic of your life.

Then there’s the Napoleon House at 500 Chartres St.  (Yes, Napoleon actually owned it.)  Soak up the Italian opera and have one of the house specialty drinks. Food is good, too. But mostly, it’s the ambience in this historic place. It’s on the budget list because you can just have drinks or coffee and still get an experience the ambiance.

Then, for those who want to splurge for just one night, I recommend Irene’s (at 539 St. Philip St.) for a wonderful world blend cuisine. Entrees are around $25.00 but you can’t beat the food or the service.

There’s also Mother’s Restaurant at 401 Poydras St. for some baked ham and home made red beans and rice, etc. This is a super budget opportunity with an authentic downtown New Orleans ambience.

Any concierge will know of these wonderful eateries. Just ask for directions.  Bon appétit!