Good Morning Darlings!

Every once in a while girls need a couple of days away. What better place for fun, food and cocktails than New Orleans?

My dear friend and business partner, Carrie, and I set out for a two day trip to catch the movie tour with our friend, Jonathan at New Orleans Movie Tours. Since we are both big American Horror Story: Coven fans, we were so tickled to visit Miss Robicheaux’s Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies.

All that sightseeing made us hungry – and thirsty! We headed over to The Irish House, owned by my buddy Chef Matt Murphy, formerly of the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans. The Irish House is warm and inviting, just like Matt and his lovely wife, Alicia. We were greeted by friend Kris, whose company does the PR for The Irish House. Kris ordered Carrie and me a couple of Iced Irish Coffees and they were so yummy!

Inside we were treated to a bunch of delicious small plates. Scotch eggs, shepherd’s pie, wings and a super cocktail named Strawberry Fields. On the weekends you can catch live Irish bands. When you are in NOLA, you must swing by and have a pint and a plate.

While we were catching up with Matt and Alicia, Matt told me a very special story. One of their young daughters had been suffering with rheumatoid arthritis. Every morning Matt and Alicia would massage her legs before school so she would be able to walk comfortably. Alicia started doing intensive research to find a better way to help her little one. She discovered that a gluten-free, paleo diet would cure her and within two days of changing her diet, their sweet daughter was running and playing like never before. Alicia was so inspired, that she opened FARE. FARE is an adorable shop on trendy Magazine Street providing salads, soups, side dishes, healthy snacks, fresh baked goods, juices, smoothies, tea & meals that are ALL made in-house and are Paleo, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, anti-inflammatory, and all-natural with a variety of vegan and nut-free options…it also happens to be delicious!

Boy, is it delicious! I tried the cinnamon roll and the date balls. Amazing! And all painted pink! Adorable! The shop matches Alicia’s personality, sweet and bright. Not only is this a must do in New Orleans, but you will be doing something wonderful for yourself.

Here are some tips for your next visit to New Orleans:

Accommodations: Hotel Modern – a fab spot with reasonable rates. Ask for Miss Scarlett.

Eat: The Irish House – try the shepherd’s pie
FARE – Good for you healthy treats

Drink: The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel

Sightseeing: New Orleans Movie Tours – This might be the most fun thing to do in NOLA. Truly. It’s a blast.