Preservation Hall, French Quarter, New Orleans

In the 1960′s, Preservation Hall was created and it is run by a non-profit. The goal of the organization is to educate on jazz. Preservation Hall is located in the French Quarter, near Andrew Square. Every evening, from 8pm-11pm they have multiple sets of jazz.

We arrived at 7:30pm for the 8pm start (the band plays 3 sets). There was a line of 40 already in front of us. In the performance hall there is a capacity limit for seating. There are some wood benches, a few side chairs and then cushions on the floor. Those who arrive later must stand. 

The hall and volunteers appreciates exact change. Each ticket is $12 for all sets. The first set experience alone was worth price. For an additional cost, patrons can requests traditional songs for $2.00, others for $5 and The Saints for $10.

We watched The St. Peter Street Playboys perform, which included a father and son team. There was a trombone/vocalist, trumpet, bassoon, pianist and drummer.

The band ranged in age from early 30′s to late 60′s. You could feel their sheer talent and love for jazz. The leader and vocalist had a wonderful tone and had a grandfatherly presence. Each solo performed displayed a different style and highlighted each instrument’s voice.

All the songs were enjoyable and the leader explained musical concepts like syncopation and the history behind a song. The more exceptionally enjoyable were Louis Armstrong’s Miss New Orleans and When the Saints Go Marching In.

Restaurant August, Central Business District, New Orleans

My friend and I dropped in at Restaurant August right before a rain storm. For $20.11 we engaged in a  Prix Fixe 3-course lunch.  I had heard about Chef John Besh from his efforts after Hurricane Katrina hit.  While competing on Top Chef Masters, he oozed his Southern charm.

The building has exposed brick throughout and was built in the 1800s. The restaurant itself occupies multiple floors, where the kitchen and restrooms were on a second floor, up a staircase and the dining room is on the main floor.

The servers were very knowlegable and kind. Immediately they presented guests with a complimentary amuse bouche of an egg mouse in an egg shell.  It was not something I would order independently, however I liked the presentation.

The warm sourdough bread and soft butter was phenomenal. I couldn’t stop filling up on the bread.

Bacon, slivers of radish and walnut salad

 The salty and buttery pork belly, soft potato gnocci and wild mushrooms was my favorite dish.

Tart with ice cream and plums
Complimentary chocolate and buttery peanut brittle ending

Restaurant August on Urbanspoon