We had not eaten since breakfast and were walking up Bourbon Street, in the evening, loving the crowds, music and general joy of life present (
check what we were in the middle of! ), when we realized that we were hungry! Most of the places are geared to adult entertainment and consuming alcohol along with listening to great music. While I would have been welcome in any of the establishments, my daughter is only 16 and not allowed in most of the places
at that time of night on Bourbon Street. We checked a couple of posted menus and then ended up liking the choices at the
Patout's Cajun Bistro , so I asked the gentleman at the door if there was any problem with us eating dinner there and he invited us right in.
We were escorted back to a small raised area in the back corner, and were seated at a table. We decided to move forward, within the raised area, to a table closer to the front edge, overlooking the bar area and the band. This did not make a difference in the noise level, for there was not a chance to do anything but enjoy the vibrancy and life of the music anywhere in mile radius! Our waitress was experienced in pointing, nodding and leaning close enough to hear projected voices! I ordered a "Cajun Margarita" and my daughter ordered a coke. The decision about what we wanted to eat was not nearly as easy, as everything on the
menu looked so good. We finally made our decisions, gave them to the waitress, and enjoyed the music and show, for all the musicians have to be performers to succeed in such a demanding atmosphere as Bourbon Street!
When the food arrived at our table the music was forgotten in our delight at the taste sensations that engulfed us! Each bite was a treat, even for untrained palates! After our initial hunger was satisfied, and our palates had adjusted to the wonderful subtle melding of flavors we were unfamiliar with, but they rejoiced in exploring, we began to allow the band to engulf us again. They had moved on to playing the washboard. That was such a show and a laugh! They used a thin bid style and played it with spoons. They even offer the washboards they play for sale – not to mention the cds that are offered during their break. I took my last drink out, into the street with me with no objection.
This is a neat place to stop at when you are spending your night on Bourbon Street! The music, the food, the atmosphere and the service are great! Do not overlook this place among the many choices you have!