A great place stop on short notice. They are open early, so you can stop for breakfast. They have incredible desserts. There are a number of there around New Orleans. Also a good place to pick up bakery and take it back to the hotel.

If you’re dreaming of the French side of New Orleans culture, this restaurant in Jackson square features French antiques and authentic French food. The line here is always long, for good reason. A case of pastries - Napoleons, croissants filled with fruit, tarts- faces the front door, and people often just go here for the pastries. Too bad for them, because around the corner of the pastry case is a glass window full of amazing French food. Quiches and puff pastries are among the offerings behind the glass window. The food here is consistently fresh, hot and rich. This is not a place to eat every day, but an indulgence. Bread, baked fresh at the café, is included with all meals. After you get your food, you sit at rustic tables looking out French doors onto Jackson Square, where painters and tarot card readers are plentiful. This place fits in New Orleans, it goes well with the cobblestone streets and parade of people passing by. It can also be quaintly romantic, so if you’re in town with your sweetie, this is a great spot for lunch. La Madeleine is a treat to the senses, just like New Orleans itself.