I am planning a trip to New Orleans for March (spring break) and I need help! I am thinking about booking a room at the Dauphine Orleans, but I don't know if it is the right choice. I also wanted to call and make reservations at a few restaurants that will be hard to get into, but I don't know which ones would be best to eat at. If you have any advice, please let me know!

Thanks!

I don't have personal information about the Dauphine Orleans, but my favorite meal in NO is jazz brunch at Commander's Palace. I'd advise you to try it. Another favorite of mine is Mr. B's, where they have the world's best gumbo!

I agree that Commanders Palace is a great place to eat. Also would recommend Petunia's on St Louis off of Bourbon. You can see their menu at Petuniasrestaurant.com. We have always had to stand in line for about 15-20 minutes but it has always been worth it.

Enjoyed three great meals in December at Peristyle, Muriel's, and Stella's.

The Dauphine Orleans is great. It's one block from Borboun Street - very quiet and very quaint - but close enough to the action. I realize that locals avoid Borboun Street, but if you are a first time tourist then you should spend an evening or two there. The Dauphine has quite a history - it was once a bordello. Our room was in the new tower, but you can walk around the property and really appreciate the original buildings and courtyards, etc. They serve a very nice continental breakfast every morning. Good luck!

I just got back from NO and had a FABULOUS meal at a smaller place on Chartres called Alpine. I think it's more of a place for locals than for tourists. The food was outstanding! I had blackened chicken on fettucini alfredo with cajun spices that was out of this world, and a Kahlua chocolate mousse dessert that was excellent, too. I also went to Mr. B's Bistro while I was there which was very good too, but I liked Alpine better.

Here's another question. I can't decide whether to stay at one of the cool, historic hotels in the FQ, or avoid the noise and potential run-down feel of some of these places, and stay at a newer place in the Central Business Distric. Am considering W, Intercontinental, or the International House there. Please help these 3 first timers to NO for a long weekend in March.

Thanks!