Hotel Monteleone

"What were your first impressions?The old-school elegance of Hotel Monteleone's architecturally elaborate entrance leaves no doubt as to the stature of this fine property, which dates back to the 1880s. There’s a sophistication to the sculpted marble—a grandeur that continues into the busy lobby and public spaces. This hotel is family-owned; it's now in the capable hands of the fifth generation of Monteleones. How are the rooms?There are just two categories: Guest Rooms and Suites. We booked the former, a functional, pleasant-enough room with period touches like sweeping curtains and chandeliers. The palette features yellows and browns in regal-looking stripes, and the luxurious bed was a welcome bonus. What do they have for food and drink?The Carousel Bar is built around a merry-go-round design; the entire space rotates—albeit very slowly. Criollo, the restaurant, spins European and local flavors into seasonal menus that are heavy on seafood. How's the service?The plentiful lobby staff oozes confidence and charm; after all, many people have worked here for decades. The check in, luggage handling, and concierge are all run with efficiency and aplomb. What's the crowd like?This is an upscale, mature, and refined crowd, especially by French Quarter standards. Everyone is civil and buttoned up—that is, until after that second Martini at the Carousel Bar. What else is nearby?The hotel was here before the neighborhood was, and it's seen several incarnations of the French Quarter. The location is ideal—well placed to walk to anywhere downtown and surrounded by the city’s best antiques stores. Any special features?There's an attractive rooftop pool with an adjoining exercise room; an upscale spa; and high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel has literary connections to Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote; a small lobby display has some interesting artifacts. Also, Monteleone is one of the three New Orleans hotels that have been operating since the 19th-century." - Paul Oswell