Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CURE
Neal Bodenheimer, a mixologist, was among the first proprietors to take his chances
on Freret Street in 2009, and his decision to open the craft-cocktail bar Cure in an old
firehouse inspired other business owners to follow suit.
Today, Freret is a thriving culinary corridor, with Cure one of its most popular destin-
ations. Since opening, Cure has been named to
Esquire
's list of Best Bars in Amer-
ica,
Travel & Leisure
's list of America's Best Cocktail Bars, and
Food & Wine
's Best
Cocktail Bars in the US.
It's easy to see why. The menu features a fascinating collection of libations, includ-
ing a tequila drink called the Mexican Bus Ride, a gin-based drink called Sleepless
Again, and a Cognac creation called Dark in the Corner. Beer and wine selections are
equally impressive.
“This classy bar has perfected the delicate act behind the perfectly balanced cock-
tail,”
Travel & Leisure
wrote of Cure. “With a tremendous selection of spirits, a vari-
ety of house-made bitters, and a talented crew with a freakish bent for creativity,
cocktails here never disappoint.”
No need to starve at Cure either. The menu includes a variety of cheese trays; small
plates such as steak tartare and maitake mushrooms; and a sandwich concoction
called the Curewich, which combines fried eggs, Cheddar cheese, and braised bacon
on a Weiss Guys roll.
•
Walk one block to Jena Street. A little advice before you continue: Make sure
you're hungry, and unless you know exactly where you want to dine, snack,
or drink (maybe all three), browse a few menus so you have a feel for the
variety of fare being served. Of course, nothing says you can't try something
at every stop, right?
•
On the corner of Jena and Freret is High Hat Café, located in the building
that once housed Bill Long's Bakery and Deli. High Hat is known for its
Southern cuisine, and among its specialties are fried catfish, barbecue
shrimp, pimento cheese, and heavenly sides like pimento mac and cheese,
stone-ground grits, and braised greens. Next door, Ancora's menu features
Neopolitan pizza and house-made salumi.
