Cafe du Monde: "A New Orleans Institution" Cafe du Monde Tip by Rixie

I wouldn't consider a trip to New Orleans complete without a visit to the Cafe du Monde. It's open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, closed only on Christmas and during hurricanes, so it's a great place to get a late night snack.

I've heard that they sell sandwiches here, but I've never seen anyone order one! Everyone comes for the beignets and the cafe au lait, which is made with chicory coffee.

It's a great place to sit outside and people-watch at any time of the day.

Only two caveats:
1) Don't go on Sunday morning -- there's always a huge line,
and
2) Be prepared to leave with powdered sugar all over your clothes! The best way to avoid "leaving white" is by eating the beignets over the brick floor.

Related story: A young man I know, who grew up in a suburb of New Orleans, said that he and his buddies used to sneak out at night and go into the city to hang out. His mother, however, noticed the powdered sugar on his clothes the next day, and he was grounded. :) The moral of the story, as he told it: When you're sneaking out to go to the Cafe du Monde, don't wear dark clothing.

Favorite Dish: Cafe du Monde is famous for its beignets -- BEN-yays -- which are small rectangular pieces of fried dough, served warm and dusted with powdered sugar. They come three to a plate. Even those who are not fond of doughnuts like beignets.

Address: 813 Decatur
Comparison: least expensive
Directions: Near the French Market, between Jackson Square and the river
Phone: 504-525-4544
Price: less than US$10
Rating: 5
Theme: Dessert
Website: http://www.cafedumonde.com