A vibrant hotel with nostalgic ties, the NOPSI recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. The luxury property in the Central Business District sits in the former headquarters of the New Orleans Public Service Inc. building. The city’s power and transportation company’s 1920s-era structure, originally designed to impress customers, wows today’s hotel guests.

Step inside the lobby with a spectacular vaulted ceiling, original terrazzo floors, ornamental columns and an upscale bar. The hotel has 217 guestrooms and 76 suites. Guestrooms decorated in sophisticated grays and putty evoke a classic feel. Artwork in bold colors depict local scenes and architecture. The New Orleans-themed minibar even contains a Mardi Gras mask. Call room service 24 hours a day.

Arriving just in time for a business lunch, we met in the Public Service Restaurant with an open-display kitchen and adjoining bar.  The casual space serves contemporary Gulf Coast fare. Our table shared The Tower — a tiered service of Gulf oysters, shrimp, crab rémoulade and ceviche. We also sampled the shrimp and andouille croquettes and a decadent debris mac and cheese. A peach salad followed by pan-seared swordfish completed our impressive meal.

Next we took a guided tour of the hotel.  The rooftop bar and pool provide sweeping views of the Crescent City. The hotel’s ballroom is a one-of-a-kind venue. Crystal chandeliers hang beside a massive crane. The 38-foot-tall ceiling of a former warehouse juxtaposes beautifully with soaring arched windows and brick walls.

In the evening, we stopped by the Public Service Bar. Happy hour is Monday through Friday 3–6 p.m.  The bartender offers a daily cocktail — we indulged in a whiskey punch while eating Cajun poutine. On Fridays, the outdoor patio, underCURRENT, becomes the spot to gather. The courtyard features live music, drink specials and a choice of fried catfish or barbecued chicken. Don’t be surprised to see a pooch or two enjoying a specially made treat at the dog-friendly hotel.

A member of the Historic Hotels of America, the NOPSI is within walking distance of the French Quarter, Harrah’s Casino and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The stunning property exudes a vitality that matches the city. If you are looking for a unique luxury stay for business, and certainly for pleasure, we highly recommend the NOPSI.

NOPSI Hotel

317 Baronne St.
New Orleans, LA 70112
tel 855 878 8816