Featured writer: A Winters

It was on a hot sweaty summer day that I decided to venture from the far end of the French Quarter all the way to the upper end of the Garden District in hopes of finding the most amazing sandwich and milkshake in New Orleans.  It was a daring journey (and one that utterly exhausted me), but the experience turned into an adventure I’ll never forget.

I don’t know where to begin. Being crammed into a trolley without a/c, and the only place to stand was next to the controller, so that every time they moved the levers, they almost plunged into my side. Or getting lost on foot with no food or water in the sweltering Louisiana heat.  Well, after wandering aimlessly through neighborhoods I was ready to give up hope trying to find the Milk Bar. Several locals had recommended it, assuring me it was worth the trek.

The Milk Bar, located on Delachaise St. (next to Lafayette Cemetery No. 1) looked so adorable, cozy, and the food absolutely delicious that I let out a great sigh of relief when I arrived. But, that might have been from the nice cool gust of a/c that hit my face as I walked through the door. Who knows.

Isn’t it cute?

Inside, the walls were Pepto Bismol pink. From the looks of the unique menu and the colossal line of locals, I knew I was in for a real treat.

I wasn’t kidding. The walls are Pepto Bismol pink!

I ordered the Clooney’s Choice gourmet sandwich and Cappuccino Cream milkshake. After finally snagging the last available seat, I delighted looking at all of the cow-themed art, especially the wall of Cow Economics. Hilarious!

When my name was called, I retrieved the hot sandwich and cool milkshake from the counter. I love it when places do something small and special, like giving away little suckers with every order.

Free suckers!

I have to say that I’ve never been a big fan of hot sandwiches, but desperate times call for desperate measures. It was this sandwich that changed everything for me, turning me into a hot sandwich junkie to this day! Now onto the Cappuccino Cream milkshake. You know how some milkshakes are too thick that you can’t even suck it through your straw and then you have to patiently wait for it to melt a bit and then the milkshake is too melted? Well, that is exactly the opposite of what happened. The texture of the shake was perfect—not too thick, not too watery. It was rich, creamy, and absolutely refreshing. The cappuccino hints weren’t too overwhelming either.  This was quite possibly one of the best milkshakes I’ve ever had!

Yum!

Although the location of this hidden gem had initially deterred me, once I realized where I was I couldn’t have been happier. I’m a huge fan of cemeteries (the older the better) and was happy to stroll through the infamous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. after lunch.

Me in front of a crypt.

The tree-lined streets were so quaint, as were the amazing houses. I hope to visit the Milk Bar again to sample all of their milkshake flavors. I already have my eye on ChocoThunder From Down Under.

Want more of my dessert tips? Read about my very best dessert pick in New Orleans.

My Recommendation: Cappuccino Cream Milkshake (Enjoyed Inside with a Hot Gourmet Sandwich)

More Info: The Milk Bar