New Orleans: Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour

New Orleans’ vibrant culinary culture is on full display during the Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour. Visitors can expect to embark on a delectable journey through the city’s renowned eating and drinking establishments. From sampling local favorites like alligator sausage and seafood gumbo to indulging in classic cocktails such as the Hurricane, the tour provides an immersive experience that illuminates the unique gastronomic identity of this captivating Southern destination. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply curious about the city’s rich history, this comprehensive tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the flavors that define New Orleans.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Food Tours In New Orleans.

Key Points

• The tour explores New Orleans’ rich culinary heritage, including sampling local flavors like alligator sausage, seafood gumbo, pralines, and bacon pecan brittle.

• Visitors can enjoy classic cocktails such as the Hurricane and the French 75 at renowned bars, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the city’s unique gastronomic identity.

• The tour includes stops at multiple award-winning restaurants and bars, allowing participants to sample iconic dishes like muffuletta sandwiches, Pimm’s Cup, and Creole jambalaya.

• Participants can learn about the history and evolution of the hurricane and French 75 cocktails, which are synonymous with New Orleans’ lively culture.

• The tour also includes visits to specialty food shops, such as Pepper Palace and Leah’s Pralines, where visitors can explore a variety of local products and confections.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Diverse Cuisine and Cocktails

The New Orleans Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour takes participants on a journey to explore the diverse cuisine and cocktails that have shaped the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Guests will have the opportunity to sample a variety of local flavors, from alligator sausage and seafood gumbo to traditional pralines and bacon pecan brittle.

The tour also includes stops at renowned bars, where visitors can sip on classic cocktails like the Hurricane and the French 75.

Through these tastings and historical insights, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of the unique gastronomic identity that has made New Orleans a premier destination for food and drink enthusiasts.

Taste Local Flavors at Restaurants

As participants embark on the New Orleans Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour, they’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of local flavors at multiple award-winning restaurants and bars across the city.

The tour includes stops at:

• Red Fish Grill, where they’ll sample alligator sausage and seafood gumbo
• Napoleon House, known for its muffuletta sandwiches, Pimm’s Cup cocktail, and Creole jambalaya
• Dickie Brennan’s Tableau, where they’ll sip on the iconic French 75 cocktail
• Café du Monde, a renowned coffee shop in the heart of the French Market area

These culinary experiences provide a comprehensive introduction to the diverse and flavorful cuisine that has made New Orleans a renowned gastronomic destination.

History of Iconic New Orleans Cocktails

Over the course of the tour, participants explore the history and evolution of several iconic New Orleans cocktails, including the hurricane and the French 75.

The hurricane, a sweet and potent rum-based drink, was popularized at Pat O’Brien’s bar in the 1940s. Its vibrant red color and tropical flavors have since become synonymous with the city’s lively culture.

Meanwhile, the French 75 – a blend of gin, Champagne, lemon juice, and simple syrup – dates back to World War I, when it was first served at the New York Bar in Paris. Today, this classic cocktail continues to be a favorite among visitors to New Orleans’ historic bars and lounges.

Alligator Sausage and Seafood Gumbo

On the tour, participants begin their culinary journey with a sampling of alligator sausage and seafood gumbo at the renowned Red Fish Grill.

This iconic New Orleans dish, a rich and flavorful stew, showcases the diverse local ingredients and cooking techniques that have made the city’s cuisine renowned worldwide.

The alligator sausage provides a unique and game-like flavor, while the seafood, such as shrimp and crawfish, lend a briny, umami-rich dimension.

The gumbo’s roux, a carefully cooked blend of flour and fat, gives the dish its signature thick and velvety texture.

This opening stop sets the stage for the tour’s exploration of the vibrant and complex flavors that define the local culinary landscape.

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Sample Pepper Palace’s Specialty Products

After sampling the iconic New Orleans dishes at the Red Fish Grill, the tour takes guests to the Pepper Palace, where they get to explore the specialty products the store is known for.

Visitors can sample a variety of hot sauces, BBQ sauces, salsas, and dry rubs, all made with the finest ingredients. The knowledgeable staff is on hand to guide them through the different flavors and heat levels, helping them find the perfect products to suit their tastes.

Whether they’re looking for a milder condiment or a fiery kick, the Pepper Palace has something to satisfy every palate. This stop on the tour offers a chance to bring home a taste of New Orleans’ vibrant food culture.

Traditional Pralines and Bacon Pecan Brittle

Next, the tour takes guests to Leah’s Pralines, where they can sample traditional pralines as well as the shop’s signature bacon pecan brittle. The pralines, a classic New Orleans confection, are made with just a few simple ingredients – sugar, cream, and pecans – resulting in a rich, buttery treat.

The bacon pecan brittle offers a unique twist, combining the sweetness of the praline with the savory crunch of candied bacon.

Leah’s Pralines is renowned for its high-quality confections:

• The pralines are made using a time-honored recipe that has been passed down through generations.
• The bacon pecan brittle is a modern creation that has quickly become a local favorite.
• Both treats are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and taking home as souvenirs.

Muffuletta Sandwiches and Creole Jambalaya

The tour then takes guests to the historic Napoleon House, where they can savor the classic New Orleans muffuletta sandwich and sample the restaurant’s take on traditional Creole jambalaya.

The muffuletta is a hefty Italian sandwich piled high with cured meats, cheese, and an olive salad dressing, all layered between a soft, round loaf of bread.

At Napoleon House, diners can also try the Creole jambalaya, a one-pot rice dish bursting with smoked sausage, chicken, and the holy trinity of onions, bell peppers, and celery.

These savory delights provide a delicious break from the cocktail sipping, allowing participants to fully enjoy the vibrant flavors of New Orleans cuisine.

French Market Area and Classic Daiquiri

The tour then takes guests through the lively French Market area, where they can catch a glimpse of the local culture and sample a classic New Orleans daiquiri at Cane and Table.

This historic French Quarter landmark is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Creole cuisine.

At Cane and Table, the group will have the opportunity to indulge in:

• Curry pork skins, a local delicacy
• Fried plantains, a sweet and savory Caribbean-inspired dish
• A refreshing classic daiquiri, a quintessential New Orleans cocktail

These offerings provide a well-rounded taste of the diverse culinary and mixology traditions that have made New Orleans a renowned gastronomic destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, with participants covering several city blocks as they visit multiple restaurants and bars. The total walking distance is approximately 1-2 miles throughout the 4-hour tour.

Are There Any Lactose-Free or Dairy-Free Food Options?

The tour includes some food options that are lactose-free or dairy-free, such as the curry pork skins and fried plantains. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to confirm specific dietary accommodations.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour may not be suitable for all dietary restrictions. It doesn’t offer options for vegans, vegetarians, or those with gluten intolerance. However, the tour can accommodate some dietary needs with advance notice.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. The company offers the flexibility to tailor the experience based on the group’s preferences, including dietary requirements and special interests. Private group bookings are available upon request.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves a mix of walking, standing, and sitting at various food and drink establishments.

Recap

The New Orleans Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour provides a captivating journey through the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Participants indulge in local specialties, sip on classic cocktails, and gain a deeper understanding of the unique gastronomic identity that makes New Orleans a premier destination for food and drink enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: