The Hotel's History:
The Omni is built on the site of the St. Louis Exchange Hotel, the Creoles' answer to the "Americains," who had had the impudence to build a grand hotel, the St. Charles, in the American Sector on the other side of Canal Street. Business at the Exchange include the trade and sale of all manner of goods. You can still see a small area where slaves were auctioned is now a loading dock. The original building was a victim to fire, and its replacement served as a hospital in the Civil War and as the Capitol during Reconstruction. The present building was completed in 1960.
Ambience:
The doorman at street level knows just about everyone who's anyone, and gives insider's tips on places to go and things to do. The bronze and gilded statues, lamps, and crystal chandeliers are right at home in the elegant two-story lobby. It's one of my favorite places to sit and sip a "washbucket" martini while lounging on a sofa or overstuffed chair. (The washbuckets have been a bargain staple for years!) Another feature that I'm very fond of is the collection of "Bodo the Wizard" paintings--he must have performed some magic on the hotel during Katrina, as it suffered little damage and is as beautiful as ever.
Rooms:
Of the 346 rooms, 150 of them have balconies overlooking the streets of the Vieux Carre. You could spend many an hour watching the passing parade of characters who define the French Quarter, whether they are street performers, artists,or residents. There are also several types of suites. Robes and umbrellas are provided along with coffeemakers, safes, wireless Internet, and many other indispensable features.
The Rib Room:
If you want to know where the locals go to eat, visit the Rib Room. Regulars here spend Friday afternoons having long lunches as they discuss business or plan Mardi Gras parties. The prime rib is superb, as are the crab cakes and crabmeat martinis. Another favorite or ours is the grilled salmon. Sunday Brunch here is one of the most popular in town and boasts one of the best jazz trios around. "Sugar Bear and the Jazz Cats" were back playing almost as soon as the restaurant re-opened, and when I saw them again last year, they opened yet another chapter in our homecoming. There is private dining in the winecellars.
What's Nearby:
Everything. You are in the middle of the Quarter, a block from world famous Antoine's and K-Paul's, and on the most famous antiquing street in the city, Royal. Bourbon Street is the next block, with Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral two blocks down. A little way in the other direction is
Harrah's Casino, the Canal Street Streetcars, and the old defining line between the Creole and the American City,
Canal Street itself. The
Aquarium, Insectarium, Riverfront, The Riverwalk, and many other destinations are within easy walking distance.
Necessary Information :
The Omni Royal Orleans is at 621 St. Louis Street, New Orleans. (504)529-5333, Fax: (504) 529-7089. Or you can visit
the website.
Look for me on any given Sunday!
