Social City Guide: New Orleans, Louisiana

The city that was underwater ten years ago is thriving, and there’s never been a better time to visit. The food’s more inventive, the hotels are instagram bait, and the cultural melting pot is bubbling over. In fact, we’d say, the moniker, “The Big Easy” is far from accurate: with all the newness, it’s hard to know how to begin peeling back the layers of paint to find the non-tourist stuff. Our favorite way? Planning with the help of the locals.

On that note, we rounded up 13 creatives who call New Orleans home—natives and transplants, chefs and illustrators, photographers and non-profit founders—creating the that famous (and spicy) NOLA flavor.

This is travel, today.

Bon voyage,
The Gramlist editors

@glazedconfused

Graham Blackall’s perspective is entirely unique: he’s a teenage baking-obsessed New Orleans native with a crazy sweet tooth and loads of sass. Just read his “about me” page. Or, you know, check out his sugar-fix feed. King cake fries, anyone?

Followers: 2,989

@joythebaker

Joy named her cookbook “Simple and Comforting Recipes” and that’s exactly the vibe of her feed. Just check out the way she views New Orleans’ French Quarter—a simple earthly pleasure meant to be enjoyed; plus, her geotagged snaps are a great mini tour of the neighborhood she now calls home.

Followers: 326k

@juleytl

Juley embodies the tenacious spirit of New Orleans. As a consultant, she’s a hustler who seamlessly mixes work and play, sharing on-the-job snaps that are as fun as her off-duty pics. Through her eyes, you see some of the most beautiful private residences the city has.

Followers: 31.7k

@rebeccarebouche

Ever seen an Anthopologie window or sign and thought, wow that is whimsically beautiful? Chances are you’re admiring the handiwork of Rebecca, a self-described painter of wondrous things. She’s also a music lover and posts from the coolest small clubs.

Followers: 7,909

@lsteffan

If you’re someone who takes the scenic route, this photographer’s feed is right up your alley. She complements her beautiful photos (facades, buildings, architecture) with rich captions that explain why she loves this city so much.

Followers: 43.1k

@noirlinians

Afrofashion is a bonafide term—and one you should know. Proof positive: This culture blog run by Denisio Truitt and writer FreeQuency. They always eem to be where the party is—and if there isn’t one, they’re starting it.

Followers: 2,386

@walkingmanstudios

No one knows a city like a native, and Maggie Covert LeBlanc has an undeniable appreciation for the architeecture of her hometown, immortalizing some of her favorite places and buildings in sketch and watercolor. They’re charming, and make you want to see it in real life.

Followers: 1,806

@little_histories

Graphic designer Sam Randolph has turned his feed into something of a city guide: charming CG illustrations of his favorite places coupled with very in-depth reviews make him more entertaining and resourceful than Zagat.

Followers: 1,512

@bmike2c

One of the most meaningful ways to “invest” in a city is to foster young talent. Brandon Odums does just that through 2-Cent Entertainment, a grassroots entertainment group that integrates youthful talent in cultural events. His feed gives an in-progress look at some of his big-impact projects.

Followers: 11.2k

@hattiesparks

Last year, Hattie Sparks, owner of the eponymous boutique, opened her second location—a testament to the quirky-prep set who love her shop stocked with limited-edition dresses and home objets. She’s constantly ‘gramming her latest discoveries.

Followers: 11.5k

@strangedish

Plates on plates on plates of all the trappings of Bayou culinaria—rice, beans, gumbo—and all the geotags you could need to eat your way through the city.

Followers: 557

@steinsdeli

New Yorkers will best understand the love of Steins by drawing a comparison to Katz’s—not to say anything could top that cultural landmark, but Dan, the owner of the family-run shop, brings loads of charm and humor to the experience. And to his feed which features, as the bio says, “pictures of Dan Stein sleeping strangely.” They deliver.

Followers: 8,373

@alonshaya

Everything he loved about being in the kitchen growing up—warm vibes, big beautiful portions, inventive recipes—is present at Domenica, the James Beard award-winning chef’s spot. He’s happy to share a uniquely candid view of what running a restaurant is like, and if he’s eating at a new spot, chances are it should be on your list.

Followers: 9,196