What started out as a neighborhood juke joint in 1977 now hosts the likes of B.B. King. Tipitina’s features a variety of live music, from brass bands and jazz to country to rock ‘n roll and was created by a group of young music fans for musician Henry Roeland Byrd, known for his unique style of fusing rhumba rhythms with boogie-woogie and blues.

Located in the French Quarter, just three blocks from the Mississippi River, the historic venue has served many functions over the years. The Preservation Hall venue presents intimate, acoustic New Orleans jazz concerts over 350 nights a year featuring ensembles from a current collective of 100+ local master practitioners.

The Maple Leaf Bar is one of the longest continually operating New Orleans music clubs, with live performances seven nights a week. Maple Leaf has been the location for many members of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, as well as other well-known acts, both locally and nationally. Tuesday nights are a must-see as the Rebirth Jazz Band performs.

If it's music that you crave or just a peek into the New Orleans way-of-nightlife, then Frenchmen Street is a must-see. Known as the "locals' version of Bourbon," Frenchmen is an entertainment district offering an amazing variety of venue styles and music ranging from traditional jazz to blues to reggae to rock, all week long.

With attention to the smallest detail, this old-school chophouse has a passion for serving the highest-quality steaks. Located on St. Charles Avenue, the owners bring a combined restaurant experience of more than 50 years. With its elegant and relaxed setting, Mr. John's offers more than steak. Veal, fresh fish and lobster dot the menu. Reservations recommended.

Nestled in the Garden District stands this turquoise and white Victorian fantasy of a building, complete with turrets, columns and gingerbread. From your first sip of a Sazerac to your last crumb of bread pudding soufflé, the restaurant will pamper and delight you.

This unique eatery is housed in a former full-service corner grocery store from the 1800s. For more than 10 years, La Petite Grocery has echoed its heritage by providing the neighborhood with exotic teas, locally roasted coffee and fresh produce. Made-from-scratch Louisiana fare highlights the menu for lunch, dinner and brunch. Cardamom-Mascarpone Cheesecake, anyone?

Since the beginning of the 20th century, the building on the uptown/river corner of Annunciation and Webster has been either a restaurant or a bar—often both—serving the uptown neighbor. What started as a bar in the late 1940s is now a pristine, white table, formal dining restaurant. Clancy’s serves classic Creole cuisine, which is as appealing as it is delicious. Reservations are recommended.