Frenchmen Hotel Review – Our Perfect Stay in New Orleans’ Lively Neighborhood
Frenchmen Hotel Review
Frenchmen Street is the lesser-known but bolder-flavored street in the French Quarter, and The Frenchmen Hotel is certainly the perfect pairing.
The aptly named Frenchmen Hotel, located slap bang at the bottom of Frenchmen Street, is the closest you can get to a taste of the old world. The historic building has been brought back to life with a careful hand and a bold vision, providing weary travellers and thrill-seekers with a unique and memorable stay. Located in the lively Marigny neighbourhood, Frenchmen Street is the destination. Don’t be fooled, as so many people are, by heading straight to Bourbon Street. Trust us when we say Frenchmen Street is the true party street of the French Quarter, a street that is frequented by actual New Orleanian locals. Unlike Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street gives you real insight into a more tasteful hedonism.
The Frenchmen Hotel holds its own on this street, surrounded by renowned jazz venues, dining, and nightlife. The Frenchmen Hotel stands head to head with these iconic venues as its very own destination.
Our stay in a two-bedroom suite was nothing short of incredible. One of the bedrooms had a balcony that overlooked Frenchmen Street, a perfect spot for people-watching. The second room was cozy and looked out onto the rooftop terrace bar (be sure to close your curtains).
The hotel’s décor, I’m told, has been inspired by surrealist painter Leonor Fini, the Argentinian-born Italian painter known for her sensual and feminine artwork. The hotel’s 27 guest rooms, each a work of art, are truly inspired by the eccentric and avant-garde characteristics of the French surrealist movement. But don’t be fooled, this is not a themed hotel. The original character of the 1860s building has been left intact, only infused with energy through the use of bold design choices and suggestive artwork.
Guests are treated to colorful vintage rugs, original ceiling medallions, and curated works of art that celebrate femininity and a golden-age bohemian lifestyle. The sweetest of all is the reception area, which brings together many interesting and creative design choices that, before your very eyes (and wallet), have transformed into a gift shop—a very clever business trick, I might add. Local handicrafts, jewelry, and books are curated for the hotel’s special gift shop, a perfect place to stock up on gifts if you missed out on the Frenchmen Art Market, located mere seconds up the road. The market is open daily from 7 pm to 12/1 am and is not to be missed!
Another treat that awaits you is the intimate courtyard pool and hot tub. Although it was too cold for us to enjoy the pool, we did spend a few hours in the hot tub with some Bloody Marys, a much-needed rejuvenation from the night before.
The hotel does have an onsite bar, Tiki Tock, which I’m told is a lively spot for guests and locals to enjoy handcrafted tiki cocktails but with a modern twist.
The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to help with any questions or needs. The hotel’s historic charm, exceptional amenities, and prime location make it the perfect place to stay.
The Frenchmen Hotel may be New Orleans best kept little secret, which is a bold statement to make considering the many mysteries that go on behind closed doors in the French quarter.
For more information head to Thefrenchmenhotel.com