Visiting Frenchmen Street
Frenchmen Street is a corridor in New Orleans, best known for the stretch where a dense concentration of clubs hosts nightly live music. You will also find bars, restaurants, and record shops here. This area, with its distinctly French name, is known as Faubourg Marigny.
History
In the 1980s, Bourbon Street became increasingly overrun by tourists. Locals sought a more authentic alternative that focused on the deep-rooted traditions of the city, and Frenchmen Street quickly evolved to fill that void.
When Hurricane Katrina devastated much of the city, this street sat on higher ground and emerged almost entirely intact. That resilience made it a natural gathering spot, and for those reasons, the city officially designated it as an arts and entertainment district.
Recommended spots
While many businesses share the reputation of the neighborhood, some stand out. Igor's Checkpoint Charlie is a dive bar that looks unassuming from the street but attracts a diverse crowd and consistently hosts quality live music.
Plan a stop at Rare Form, a staple of local nightlife. With food, drinks, live music, and an interior courtyard, it offers a reliable setup for an evening out.
If you prefer more modern sounds, Dragon's Den is a mandatory stop. You will find less jazz here, with a focus instead on electronic, Latin, and reggae music.
For late-night cravings, head to 13 Monaghan, a restaurant where every dish is served with a New Orleans twist. It is the kind of place where you can grab a table at 4:00 AM.
I could also mention Apple Barrel, Snug Harbor, Spotted Cat, Mona's, and many other incredible spots.
Do not hesitate to visit, as this is the place to experience the true pulse of the city.
Frenchmen Street is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture, with jazz clubs featuring some really great musicians and markets where artists sell their own records and are happy to chat with you. Hungry or thirsty? Plenty of bars and restaurants serve local dishes.