By Carlinha Carioca (CT)
As 2021 descends upon us, The New Year brings new resolutions, new aspirations, and hopes. As I aspire to hold on to what was good in the past year and let go of what was not so good, I think of the places I visit, the people I meet, the experiences and opportunities I had. When it comes to experiencing food I often think about New Orleans, a place that I have been lucky to visit for the past 3 years. It was a combination of family nearby and the opportunity to experience something new that brought me to New Orleans the first time. The need to re experience the first visit and in search for new experiences has brought me back a few more times.
New Orleans often referred by locals as Nola is roughly 4 ½ to 5 hours drive from Okaloosa County. New Orleans is known as a party town for the young crowd and the young at heart as well is also a town full of culture, traditions and a variety of food places that can cater to any likes and dislikes. There are so many places I enjoy in New Orleans and every visit I try at least one new place, but there are also my must go to places every visit.
Although it might seem cliché, for me, beignets are a must have in New Orleans, I can’t imagine a visit without at least one breakfast or snack at the famous Café du Monde. The lines are usually huge, but it often moves fast and the warm, fried dough served with powdered sugar is totally worth the wait. Not to mention you will have plenty of entertainment while in line from live street musicians, to mimes and other street artists.
My next must go to place in my visit to New Orleans is just a few blocks from Café du Monde and it’s called Central Grocery. A grocery and deli store founded in 1900’s, Central Grocery is famous for their original Muffuletta. Made with handmade fresh bread, fresh sliced ham, salami, mortadella, cheeses and their own signature olive salad, The Muffuletta is one of my favorite sandwiches. I usually take my Muffuletta for the road because it travels well, is a perfect ride home food. Central market also has their signature olive salad for sale so you can bring it home and try creating your own Muffuletta.
If you enjoy road trips New Orleans is a great place to visit, one can enjoy food from some of the most classic traditional places, or just enjoy the world famous Muffuletta or beignets. No matter what sort of food you like you are sure to find many different options to choose from in New Orleans. Be ready to immerge into some fun, lively music and food culture. Stay safe & healthy. Until next time…