August 5 - New Orleans: Ruby Slippers

It might sound crazy to drive several hundred extra miles just to enjoy a really good breakfast. But if you’ve ever eaten at Ruby Slippers in New Orleans you would understand. The breakfast I had there a few years ago was the best I’ve ever had. I have been wanting to go back ever since then but had to pass last year due to inclement weather. So, when I saw that the Natchez Trace Parkway pointed right towards New Orleans I decided to keep going. It was worth it.

After leaving the Natchez Trace Parkway yesterday I took interstate 55 south and then interstate 10 west to New Orleans. I was a little leery about going into the city because the streets in New Orleans are full of cracks, potholes, and debris, not to mention rather erratic drivers. However, lured by the promise of good food I decided to give it a shot.

I love New Orleans simply because the people are friendly, the food is amazing, the atmosphere is very relaxed, and the city is alive at night. So even though I got into town late last night I was still able to get a great bowl of gumbo at Daisy Dukes. The gumbo had andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp, and rice and was both flavorful and hearty. After eating I walked down Bourbon street and enjoyed seeing the bright lights, hearing the jazz music, and mingling with other night owls.

I was almost a little nervous when I first arrived at Ruby Slippers this morning. What if the food wasn’t as good as I remembered it? My fears were groundless. My hot-smoked salmon omelet was off the charts delicious – melted goat cheese, warm smoked salmon and eggs topped with hollandaise, red onions and flash-fried capers. The flavors melded perfectly together and there were a nice variety of textures – creamy cheese, crispy onions, and soft eggs. The buttermilk biscuit was just as flavorful and served with a cane syrup whipped butter. What a great day!