NOWFE: What to Do at New Orleans Wine and Food Experience

The annual New Orleans Wine and Food Experience (NOWFE) draws in gourmands from all over the globe craving a glimpse (and a taste) of authentic New Orleans flavors.

Our hotel’s French Quarter location makes it the perfect headquarters for NOWFE: head to special NOWFE events on foot, or even plan a beverage break at our on-site restaurant Latitude 29, home to authentic tiki-style cocktails created by legendary author and exotic drink expert Jeff Berry.

Take a look below at some of the standout events at NOWFE:

The Royal Street Stroll is one of the highlights of New Orleans Wine & Food Experience. (Photo courtesy NOWFE)

The Royal Street Stroll is one of the highlights of New Orleans Wine & Food Experience. (Photo by NOWFE)

Vinola!

Friday, May 26, 2017 at 2:00 pm

We’re personally partial to tiki drinks, but we’d never pass up the chance to sample rare wines from around the world. NOWFE’s Vinola! event features a huge variety of wines, and the winemakers themselves will present many of the selections. You don’t have to worry about going hungry while you sip, as plenty of local restaurants will serve up food samples during the event.

Royal Street Stroll

Friday, May 26, 2017 at 5:30 pm

NOWFE’s annual Royal Street Stroll takes place rain or shine, and it offers the perfect chance to second-line, New Orleans-style. The Krewe of Cork leads the parade, and elite winemakers will serve as its Grand Marshals.

The experience starts directly in front of our sister property, Hotel Monteleone, on the 200 block of Royal Street and extends through the 800 block of the same street. Royal Street is one of the city’s most memorable streets: you’ll see antique shops, historic architecture, and live jazz as you parade and imbibe. A ticket to this event grants you a 2017 Wine Glass & Credential that allows you to partake in wine and food offerings.

The Grand Tasting at New Orleans Wine & Food Experience showcases more than 1000 wines alongside delicious foods from over 75 New Orleans restaurants. (Photo courtesy NOWFE)

The Grand Tasting at New Orleans Wine & Food Experience showcases more than 1000 wines alongside delicious foods from over 75 New Orleans restaurants. (Photo by NOWFE)

Grand Tasting

Saturday, May 27, 2017 at 6:00 pm

Some of New Orleans’ best restaurants pair up with international wines at Grand Tasting, one of NOWFE’s premier events.

Restaurants ranging from the casual (Dat Dog) to the contemporary Creole (Criollo, the restaurant of our sister property Hotel Monteleone) will be offering up samplings of their gourmet dishes. Chefs will be competing for awards, including the Fleur de Lis Culinary Award, so you’re sure to treat your taste buds to a culinary delight.

The Big Gateaux Show

Saturday, May 27, 2017 at 9:00 pm

Pastry competition meets burlesque performance art in New Orleans. The Big Gateaux Show combines two unlikely activities in one spectacular after-party: the event typically sells out, so plan to purchase advance tickets!

Where To Stay In Downtown New Orleans

Bienville House is located in the heart of the French Quarter, just steps away from the Royal Street Stroll and close to all of the NOWFE festivities. Book your room now!