The Troubadour

"What were your first impressions?The 1960s office block exterior doesn’t look out of place in the city’s Central Business District, but inside it's all retro chic patterns and futuristic abstract sculptures. What’s the crowd like?Expect to see young, urban explorers in the lobby, planning their day’s adventures on their iPads over coffee. And, the rooms?Our Troubie King had dark grey and blue overtones and the patterns mirrored the geometric displays of the public spaces. The fabrics were reassuringly plush and the lamps and fittings landed the right side of kitsch. The bathroom mixes elements of cubism and art deco, with striking monochrome tessellating tiles framing the shower. Jonathan Adler products complete the picture. How about the little things?There’s a welcome touch of adult sophistication to the inclusion of a self-service cocktail kit that complements the minibar, and the colorfully funky modern art prints are eminently desirable. Wi-Fi: What’s the word?Complimentary Wi-Fi easily stood up to Netflix demands. Food and drink?Two amenities stand out, one on the ground floor and one on the roof. Up top is Monkey Board, a rooftop bar that rivals any in town, with inventive cocktails, bar food, and city views. Down below is the on-site restaurant, Jayne. It’s one of NOLA’s best-kept dining secrets and has an astonishingly good menu including such delights as Creole Caribbean Wings and Shrimp Rice Fritters. What's the bottom line?The Troubadour is a desirable addition to the hotel renaissance of the CBD, and offers a modern design aesthetic that is unusual for this traditional city." - Paul Oswell