Louisiana - NOLA

Another great morning on our USA road trip. We headed out for coffee and beignets at Cafe du Monde. After our morning coffee we headed down to the waterfront on the Mississippi river. People were lining up at the Natchez paddlewheel riverboat for their riverboat cruise. Last time we were in New Orleans we spent the morning on the riverboat and had a wonderful time.

Jackson square was lined with people and artists selling their art. This city is filled with amazing artists and musicians. We headed down the river front toward the riverwalk mall and down to the cruise ship terminal to catch a glimpse of the cruise ship that was in port. After a nice stroll and site seeing adventure we started to head back to drop Roxy off before we went to find our first Diners, Drive Inns and Dives road trip restaurant.

We hopped onto our bikes and headed towards the river and then to the east into the Faubourg Marigny - Bywater (9th ward) neighbourhood. Bywater has a vibrant art scene - with local artisans' galleries, funky live music venues, and art markets, embodies the essence of these adjacent neighborhoods. The food scene here is mixed with trendy spots and locally founded, casual

digs - take your pick.

We headed to "The Joint" for lunch. Having been featured in multiple national publications and on the Food Network, The Joint is known for serving the best BBQ in New Orleans. The restaurant’s slogan, “always smoking,” is a true testament to The Joint’s dedication to serving the most delicious and authentic Southern BBQ dishes and sides in the city. BBQ enthusiasts claim The Joint deserves all the hype and praise it receives, and say that this "joint" should not be missed.

Rick had the "burnt ends" brisket on white bread and I had the pulled pork on white bread. Probably the best BBQ I have had.. that is of course second to Rick's famous smoked ribs (definitely can't beat his ribs!). They had interesting side dish complements as well - baked beans, mac and cheese and the daily special - smokey corn grits. Very tasty. It was a nice 7-8 km return trip bike ride from our place to the Joint. Very easy riding as the city is pretty flat. What a wonderful afternoon and great way to get around.

Bourbon street was hoping that night as usual. We hit the usual spots that we like to listen to music :

1. Fat Kat Music Club
2. Funky 544
3. Maison Bourbon

I think our new favourite out of the bunch was Maison Bourbon. Of course it really depends on the band that is playing. Tonight there was a 5 piece classical jazz band playing; trombone, trumpet, tuba, drums and piano. Great musicians and not too loud. A great night out listing to live music as always.