11 Spots for the Italian-American St. Joseph's Day Parade
Every year, the Italian-American St. Joseph's Day Parade takes place throughout the French Quarter and downtown. The parade is held by the Italian American St. Joseph Society and will take place on March 28 at 6 p.m. this year.
The parade emphasizes a classic, formal attire with participants wearing tuxedos, sashes, and beads, as well as celebrating Italian culture. The throws include items such as beads, silk flowers, and decorated fava beans. Groups such as the Jefferson City Buzzards and the Italian-American Marching Club will hand out flowers and other items while second lines trail behind.
The parade route cuts through some of the city's notable bar and restaurant corridors, making it an opportunity to celebrate the event with food and drinks nearby. These 11 stops line up along the route for parade-watching, refreshments. or a meal during the festivities.
1. Caesars Casino
8 Canal St., (800) 427-7247
caesars.com/caesars-new-orleans
Just outside the parade route, the entertainment hub Caesars Casino offers a range of activities and festivities to expand parade-going. There are expansive gaming floors, as well as bars and restaurants, making it a starting point before heading farther into the French Quarter. It is a high-energy space that provides an opportunity to stop for a cocktail, a fine-dining experience, or engage in casino activities.
2. The Jimani
141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493
A local favorite, The Jimani is a laid-back bar where parade-goers can refuel along the route without diverting too far from the festivities. It is known for its late-night kitchen, extensive beer selection, and sports bar environment, making it an easy stop for groups looking to keep the party going. During the parade, it is close enough to the action but just removed enough to relax and refuel with bar food such as burgers and pasta.
3. The Double Club
307 Chartres St., (504) 224-9843
Located on Chartres Street, the Double Club is a restaurant and cocktail bar focusing on West Coast flavors. They offer comfort dishes such as club sandwiches, street tacos, and an extensive drink menu. Just off the parade route, the restaurant provides an opportunity to recharge and relax mid-parade. The Double Club blends dive bar energy with a slightly more polished cocktail experience. Downstairs, you'll find a lively, crowd experience during parade time, while the upstairs offers a more relaxed space.
4. Napoleon House
500 Chartres St., (504) 524-9752
Napoleon House is known for its historic atmosphere with weathered walls and dim lighting. The spot serves a signature Pimm's Cup and iconic muffuletta, making it ideal for parade-goers looking for a slower energy amidst the festivity. The venue offers a courtyard for parade-goers to relax, recharge, and escape the chaos outside before revisiting the celebration.
5. The Rib Room
621 St. Louis St., (504) 529-7045
Located within the Omni Royal Orleans, the Rib Room offers an elegant, old-school New Orleans dining experience that takes customers away from the hectic street crowds. The restaurant is known for their slow-roasted prime rib, Gulf seafood, and grilled steaks. The atmosphere leans into polished service, tradition, and a menu full of Creole dishes. The Rib Room provides an opportunity for a proper meal amidst the chaos of the parade.
6. Carousel Bar
214 Royal St. (504) 523-3341
Located inside Hotel Monteleone, Carousel Bar is a slowly rotating bar resembling a carousel, with seats lined along the bar's edge. If seats are available, grab a seat on the edge or stand nearby with a drink and take in the atmosphere. The bar offers a vintage carnival aesthetic, combined with the slow spin of the bar, making it a lively and unique atmosphere to take a break from the parade.
7. Sazerac House
101 Magazine St., (504) 910-0100
The Sazerac House is part museum and part distillery, offering a cocktail experience and diving into NOLA's drinking culture. Inside, visitors can find interactive exhibits, elegantly designed interiors, and tastings that highlight the history of the Sazerac and classic New Orleans drinks. The spot allows parade-goers to mix culture into the parade experience, or enjoy a cocktail in an indoor setting.
8. Mother's Restaurant
401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656
mothersrestaurant.net
Open since 1938, Mother's Restaurant offers classic New Orleans comfort food on Poydras Street. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere and is famous for its po-boys, espcially the Ferdi special, and dishes such as jambalaya and crawfish étouffée. During parade hours, visitors can expect a line but quick service for individuals in need of a substantial meal to keep the day going. The restaurant is bustling and lively, making it a suitable place to quickly spot between parade hours.
9. Restaurant August
301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777
For parade-goers looking to elevate their St. Joseph's Day experience, Restaurant August provides a more refined dining environment. Set in a 19th-century building, the dining room contains chandeliers, high ceilings, and an elegant atmosphere. The menu focuses on Creole cuisine, including seasonal ingredients and impressive presentation. To escape the parade chaos, Restaurant August offers multi-dish courses and wine assortments to end the day with intention
10. Kira
601 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 528-9393
Kira brings a fresh, modern energy to the Warehouse District, combining both Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere is dim-lit, sleek, and refined, making it an ideal dining spot as night falls on the parade day. The menu encourages sharing and includes live-fire cooking, making it ideal for larger groups. Dishes such as crudo, Wagyu, and more can be paired with a creative cocktail list.
11. The Wine Bar at Emeril's
334 Julia St., (504) 528-9393
emerilsrestaurant.com/the-wine-bar-at-emerils
To end St. Joseph's Day on a high note, visit The Wine Bar at Emeril's for a relaxed atmosphere and high-quality wine offerings. With an extensive wine list and small plates, the venue is clean and modern, providing an opportunity to rest and socialize after a day of parading. The spot is suitable for individuals looking for a quieter spot after a lively day. Guests also have access to the wine cellar at Emeril's upon visiting.
