When most people think of New Orleans, its cuisine is one characteristic that stands above the rest. For a few dollars, you can get a taste of authentic New Orleans-style food you will never forget. Begin at the Saturday Crescent City Farmer's Market at the corner of Magazine and Girod Streets. Fresh vegetables and fruits abound from 8 a.m. to noon. The real deal comes with the 10 a.m. cooking demonstration.
Local chefs prepare tantalizing dishes using ingredients from the market.
Fill up on the free samples. The market is also open on Tuesday at Uptown Square from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a cooking demonstration at noon. If you need a snack, head over to Cafe Du Monde, which offers its signature beignets and coffee 24 hours a day. Patio and indoor dining is available. Locations include the 24-hour original at 800 Decatur St., as well as in the Esplanade Mall, Riverwalk, New Orleans Shopping Centre and Lakeside Shopping Center.