There are perks to working in the spirits industry, one of which is that people know how to mix work and play. When it’s time for a conference or rum festival, you won’t find everyone gathering in the hotel conference room closest to the airport. You’ll find them in some unique part of the country, indulging in and enjoying the region’s culinary and cultural traditions.

Tales of the Cocktail, a cocktail festival that takes place in New Orleans, is no exception. The French Quarter itself adds so much character and inspiration to the event. Montanya founder and owner Karen Hoskin heads there every year to take part in Tales, and we share a few of her local favorites below. (One important note: These places are so insanely good that it’s hard to write about them without using an OMG and an extra exclamation point on every single one. We did our best to keep ourselves in check, but indulged just a bit.)

The Spotted Cat Music Club in NOLA, one of Karen’s top picks for entertainment.

Best Coffee:

Spitfire. Just google Spitfire New Orleans, and you’ll see that they set themselves apart by being a “multi-roaster.” They feature coffees from around the country and serve them as espresso, cold brew, and V60 pour-overs.

Breakfast Lunch:

Nobody eats breakfast in NOLA because you stay up way too late. Go straight to lunch at the Royal House. Karen likes to sit upstairs on the balcony (or inside upstairs if it’s too hot) for oysters and champagne.

Dinner and Cocktails:

It’s hard to choose just one place. But OMG! Cane and Table, Sylvain, and Cavan—the rum cocktails and the food are all insanely good!(!)

Accommodations:

Every year, Karen and her partners-in-crime choose a different apartment in a different section of the French Quarter so they get to know the whole area. Apartments are great because they allow for a little more elbow room to hang out—NOLA can be tiring, so having a good place to relax is important. This photo is of the view from this year’s rooftop pool!

The view of Hotel Monteleone from the rooftop pool were Karen and her partners in crime relaxed after some hard work and play.

Late Night:

Frenchman's Street late night! The Spotted Cat (see photo above) and DBA.

The Late, Late Night:

We’re talking midnight and after. Stop at Cafe du Monde for coffee and beignets. (If you’re Celiac or gluten-free like Karen and can’t eat the beignets, it’s still worth the visit. Karen loves the coffee and the vibe of this classic spot.)

Not to Be Missed:

Get tickets for one of the shows at Preservation Hall. This music venue was founded in 1961 “to protect, preserve and perpetuate Traditional New Orleans Jazz.” It’s an extra cool show when they collaborate with sit-in musical guests and other bands. Tiny venue. Super rustic. Short shows. Worth every minute!