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Review content:
I've been to New Orleans twice, and have gone to the Spotted Cat at least 5 different nights during those trips. I was looking specifically for a gritty, non-touristy, true New Orleans jazz scene, and a local told me about the Frenchman Street area in the Faubourg Marigny. Snug Harbor is impressive, but the Spotted Cat is easily the crown jewel of this gritty, Bohemian, neat little pocket of Old New Orleans. This place sells itself as you wander down from the French Quarter, with jazz spilling out of the doorway onto the streets. From it's old cracked cement floors, ceiling fans, cozy bar area, and small stage, this place has tons of character and draws you in immediately. It's exactly what you've been looking for.
The Jazz Vipers play here frequently and are a must see. They're a seven piece jazz group that brings back beautiful old swing music with a clever sax player, a very talented old trumpeter, each of whom adds crooning vocals to their sets. Chat with them over a beer between sets. They've become a fixture in the competitive local music scene, and have wowed audiences all over the country.
In the summer months, when the humidity is nearly unbearable and the place gets packed, you can stand outside with a beer and still enjoy the music.
Be sure to make time for a visit to the Cat. This place is a lot of fun, and will always be one of my first stops on return trips to the Big Easy. I would highly recommend this place to anyone.
Pros: Music, ambience, service, value, character, authenticity
Cons: None
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