New Orleans Travel: Magazine Street
Venturing out from the French Quarter
Magazine Street is an area that runs basically parallel with St. Charles Avenue, out from the CBD south, downriver. Historically, as in the 1850’s, it was developed as people moved out from the French Quarter and into the “suburbs.” It is certainly far from it today, but it gives you an idea as to geographical location.
NEW ORLEANS TRAVEL TIP: If you are planning a trip out to these areas, you should consider transportation from the French Quarter. Magazine Street and St. Charles Avenue stretch literally for miles.
Usually, Magazine Street is for shopping and eating, and St. Charles Avenue is for sightseeing large mansions. The streetcar runs down the center of St. Charles Avenue, not Magazine. It is possible to walk from the streetcar line to Magazine Street, but it is a hike.
We suggest taking a taxi or car to Magazine Street. You can take a bus to Magazine Street as well. If you want to tour St. Charles Avenue, the streetcar is fine.
One warning about Magazine Street – the restaurants and eateries are often ‘grouped’ meaning that if you are in a shopping area, you may not find a restaurant. Regardless, there are some great places here.
NEW ORLEANS TRAVEL TIP: If you take a bus or taxi to Magazine Street, consider renting a scooter to get around.
Closest to downtown (but still not walkable) are The House of Lounge (2044 Magazine), is a really interesting lingerie shop that sells more than just clothes, but those must-have accessories like slippers. Aidan Gill For Men (2026 Magazine) is a must for all men. It is an old-time barber shop where you can still get a shave with a straight razor and hot towels. They also retail interesting men’s items such as shaving creams, sops, and even watches.
NEW ORLEANS TRAVEL TIP: If you men are looking for a great, old-time shave, try Aian Gill's. You may want to call ahead.
Juan's Flying Burrito (2018 Magazine Street, 504-569-0000) features Tex-Mex fare with a Southern touch.
Further down, Pippen Lane (2929 Magazine Street) a children's emporium, founded by AnnaBeth Goodman, wife of actor John Goodman. Gallerie Eclat, (504-896-2307, 3116 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115), is a gallery that features mostly original artwork by local artists. Joey K's (504- 891-0997, 3001 Magazine Street) is perhaps the very best place to eat on Magazine Street. It features has local food, and is very casual and reasonably priced. If you prefer sushi, Sake Café (2830 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70115, 504-894-0033) is an upscale Japanese and sushi bar.
Petcetera (3205 Magazine Street) features everything necessary for the pampered pet. Joan Vass/Ballin’s Ltd. (504-891-4502, 2917 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115) is nearby. Other nearby popular spots include Dombourian Rugs, the Funky Monkey, Naaz Clothing, and As You Like It Silver Shop.
Magazine Antique Mall (3017 Magazine Street, 504-896-9994) is a unique multi-vendor establishment housed in an old mid-1800’s building featuring all types of antiques and collectibles.
NEW ORLEANS TRAVEL TIP: Magazine Antique Mall has an eclectic assortment of collectibles from coins, to signs, to dolls, bottles, and even tools and furniture.
Also visit Sucre, New Age Antiques, La Divina Gelateria, Frock Candy, Q. T. Pie, Aesthetics & Antiques, Sabai Jewelers and much more.
You might check out New Orleans Travel Tips' St. Charles Avenue section as it is nearby.
There are some fantastic boutiques on Magazine as well. Il Negozio (504-269-0130, 3607 Magazine) offers clothing European and American designers. Fairy (3634 Magazine) is an eclectic mix of contemporary women's clothing. Mignon Faget (3801 Magazine) sells locally-inspired jewelry.
In the area is Lilette Restaurant (3637 Magazine) which features a great selection of casual French fare. Nearby Casamento's (4330 Magazine) is a New Orleans institution that is known for its many oyster dishes.
NEW ORLEANS TRAVEL TIP: Even if you don't like oyster's, Casamento's can help you find a style that you will love!
There is a very large Whole Foods near the intersection of Magazine and Napoleon Street. It used to be a city bus repair facility (the Arabella Station) and is – in no uncertain terms – massive. Whole Foods (504-899-9119, 5600 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115).
Tee-Eva’s (4430 Magazine) offers take-out food of all sorts – Gumbo, Jambalaya and the like. Jon Antiques (4605 Magazine) and the Bead Shop (4612 Magazine) are also nearby.