New Orleans, Louisiana
Maison de la Luz
Style Star
What it is
A 67-suite hideaway from hipster hoteliers Atelier Ace with an exquisite honor bar Europe-worthy breakfast buffet.
What it isn't
Stocked with its own pool, though you’re free to use the one at sister property Ace Hotel New Orleans (along with the 24-hour gym).
What we think
History in New Orleans is palpable, hanging in the sultry air like the scent of magnolia blossoms. So it’s no wonder Maison de la Luz, tucked within a 1908 building in the Warehouse District, is so abundantly charming: each room is enormous (starting at 580-square-feet) and adorned as every Southern Belle hotel should be, with sculptural tufted furniture, flowing draperies, and paneled walls. But thanks to design by L.A.-based Studio Shamshiri, it’s also thoroughly of the moment and anything but stuffy, with modernist light fixtures and a saturated color scheme director Wes Anderson would appreciate. (Ask to book the Grand Studio Suite for 17-foot-high ceilings and a deep soaking tub, ideal for steeping after a night of only-in-N’Awlins revelry.) Service is exemplary here: you’ll have twice-daily housekeeping, evening turn-down, and 24-hour room service at your disposal.
You're here because
Maison de la Luz guests have priority access at a handful of sceney restaurants and boîte in town, including craft cocktail watering hole Bar Marilou—housed in City Hall’s library and accessed through a private, guests-only door.
The Moment
You can’t believe it, but you’re still feeling a little peckish after your glass of red at the hotel’s gratis nightly wine, cheese, and charcuterie hour—or maybe it’s just the alcohol talking. So you have the staff nab you a reservation at Seaworthy, where locally-caught fare includes Louisiana shrimp rolls and where the cocktails have you in Mardis Gras-level heaven. Tonight’s drink: 24 Karat, made with vanilla, raisin and black pepper spiced bourbon, with lemon and honey.
Restaurants & Bars
Breakfast Room - Breakfast buffet
Living Room - Guest-only lounge
Location
A block from Lafayette Square, and within zippy walking distance of most must-see and must-eat New Orleans thrills, including Cafe du Monde’s powdered sugar-dusted beignets.