Gazebo Cafe: "Best music in the French Market" New Orleans Restaurant Tip by goodfish

I actually didn't eat here but watched the salads, sandwiches and pastas go by and they all looked good. What snagged me was the music - was walking by late one morning and heard this righteous noise coming from under the green awning. 3 hours and as many frozen daiquiris later, I was still there. Ellen Smith and her excellent band were cookin' up a feast of jazz and blues fine enough to make you forget about your stomach. The cafe is actually part covered, open-air venue and part garden seating and their ad mentions candle-lit dining in the evenings. Whatever - I passed this place several more times over the next few days and their bands were consistently good. The pina colada daiquiris were also excellent - thick with lots of coconut and pineapple flavor. Yum. Will likely try the menu (local Cajun/Creole offerings) next time we're in town but you can also just grab a drink, a table and enjoy the tunes.

Note - the musicians play for tips and it's only right to ante up for the tunes. Consider what you might have paid for a cover price elsewhere and put it in the jar. Same thing goes for pictures and requests - pay up for every one you take or make. This "golden rule" applies EVERYWHERE that doesn't make you pay at the door. Help keep music alive and well in New Orleans! And yes, thankfully The Gazebo survived Katrina!

Favorite Dish: The music and the frozen drinks!

Address: 1018 Decatur Street
Comparison: less expensive than average
Directions: Middle of the French Market area, east of Cafe du Monde, towards the farmer's market.
Price: US$11-20
Rating: 5
Theme: Local
Website: http://www.gazebocafenola.com/index.html