Sunday Lunch/Brunch with jazz

Question

Sadly we have just one day in NOLA - next Sunday April 20th - and would love to find a good spot for an unhurried boozy lunch with some good music.

Local rather than heavily touristy and not high-end would be preferable but would be open to any suggestions.

And any ideas for a later drink or three on our way back to our hotel the Holiday Inn Superdome would also be much appreciated. Again, a local institution would be preferred.

Thank you kindly in advance.

Answer

For a leisurely, boozy lunch with some great jazz in New Orleans, you have several wonderful local spots to choose from that offer live music, good vibes, and delicious food. Since you're looking for something less touristy and more local, here are a few great options for your Sunday afternoon in NOLA:

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro: Located in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, Snug Harbor offers a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere with fantastic jazz. Their brunch menu is delicious, and it's a local favorite for both food and music. It’s perfect for a leisurely boozy lunch while soaking in the jazz scene.
The Spotted Cat Music Club: Also in the Faubourg Marigny, this is a great spot for an authentic New Orleans experience. It’s casual and very much a local institution, offering live jazz performances. Though they don't specifically do "brunch," they do offer drinks and snacks and have a fantastic laid-back vibe that’s perfect for your relaxed Sunday afternoon.
Three Muses: This spot on Frenchmen Street is known for its great food, cocktails, and live music. It has a cool, unpretentious vibe, and you can enjoy jazz while having a delicious lunch or brunch. Their small plates are perfect for sharing, and the ambiance is intimate and fun.
Palace Café: If you're looking for a more traditional local spot, the Palace Café on Canal Street has a great brunch with jazz music in the background. It’s a bit more established but still not too touristy, offering great Southern fare with a laid-back feel. It’s also close enough to the French Quarter if you want to explore a bit after lunch.
Commander's Palace (Jazz Brunch): While it’s more upscale, it’s definitely a local favorite and an institution in New Orleans. They do an incredible jazz brunch, and though it’s higher-end, it’s still very much a part of the local culture. If you're open to splurging a little, this is an iconic choice that gives you the full NOLA brunch experience.

For a late-night drink or two as you head back to your hotel (Holiday Inn Superdome), you have some fantastic local options for a relaxed evening. Here are a few recommendations:

The Carousel Bar & Lounge: If you’re in the mood for a unique experience, head to the Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone. It’s a rotating bar, and while it’s a little touristy, it’s still a local institution. It’s great for a final drink before heading back to the hotel, and the atmosphere is classic New Orleans.
The Erin Rose: Located in the French Quarter, Erin Rose is a no-frills bar known for its laid-back vibe and strong drinks. It’s a local favorite and open late, perfect for winding down with a drink. They also serve a fantastic frozen Irish coffee, which is a must-try!
The Sazerac Bar: If you’re in the mood for a fancy classic cocktail, head to the Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel. It’s a bit more refined, but it still has that old-school New Orleans charm. You can enjoy a beautifully crafted cocktail before heading back to your hotel.
Gordon Biersch Brewery: For a more casual vibe, Gordon Biersch on St. Charles Avenue offers good beer and a relaxed atmosphere, and it's within walking distance of the Superdome. It’s not as touristy as other spots and is a favorite with locals.

Enjoy your time in New Orleans, and make sure to soak in the music, the drinks, and the local vibe during your brief visit!