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New Orleans Sugar Bowl ⚜️

markhadland
Neon sign for Monteleone Hotel Garage, illuminated at night, displaying 'Monteleone Hotel Garage' and 'Entrance to Lobby'.
The Monteleone Hotel with the famous Carousel Bar.

The 2023 Huskies had a historic season, going undefeated at 13-0 in Pac-12 play, defeating Oregon in the Pac-12 playoff game, and also beating the Ducks twice in the same season – sorry, Bruce. It was the last year of the Pac-12 due to conference realignment. Never again could the Ducks win a Pac-12 Championship. The Dawgs have not gone undefeated since the 1991 Season, the year I graduated. We were in the National Championship playoffs, and I told Carter and Rhone that this might never happen again in history. As rabid Dawg fans, we went to the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans to cheer on the Huskies against Texas and spend New Year’s in The Big Easy. This trip, it was Carter, Rhone, Mitch, and me—the fearsome foursome.

We arrived in town as the sun set, and made our way directly to Bourbon Street.

Hadland’s mean mugging.
There’s a cool vibe to this town.
Slushies for the boys.
New Orleans knows how to host a major sporting event like no other.
There is a lot of American history influenced by the Spanish and French that we don’t get to experience on the West Coast. I love it!

We were hungry and searching for a proper dinner meal. What did we spy? A dry-aged steakhouse – Our beloved Doris.

Oh, the magnificent beauty 🥩
Wine too 🍷🍷🍷

We were in Heaven.

This was by far one of the best steakhouses we have ever visited.

Few things change with us four.
More mischievous. I sure liked these hand grenades.

Day Two

It was my Mom’s 80th Birthday – Happy Birthday Grandma, as we all call her. Wishing you were here.

After thoroughly enjoying all the wonderful things Bourbon Street had to offer, we embarked in search of some of New Orleans’ finest brunch spots. I was the first to rise and made my way to the famous Antoine’s for a Champagne Brunch. I set off alone, and Carter and Mitch finally made their way to me after my first bottle.

After a wonderful brunch, we set off to tour the French Quarter.

So much historical architecture to appreciate.
Our favorite bit of culture.
Refreshments were in order!
Singing Sinatra.
Super Powers!
As the sun set, we were joined by Rhone and Mitch’s friend Sahand.
I was looking for a bit of joy in my life.

We found Joy at the world-famous O’Briens, known for their exceptionally strong hurricanes. This town was one non-stop party. We were in heaven.

After a proper bit of drinking, it was time for dinner. We made the only correct choice, Doris!

Day Three

We started day three with some beignets.

It was time for The Sugar Bowl Parade.

Boo Texas.
The University of Washington Husky Marching Band! I am a proud Alum.
We took in a tour of the Sazerac Museum.
Enjoyed lovely beverages.
Met up with longtime friend Chandi Michelle. Two Lacey Washington North Thurston High School grads!
Fireworks for New Years!

We returned to Doris to celebrate our waiter Hung Dong’s birthday.

Game Day

Prior to making our way to the game, we took in a little culture – very little.
We pre-gamed with Chandi.
Now it was time for the big game.
And I thought Bourbon Street was crowded.
I was able to secure seats in the End Zone Club, which was great as we had expedited access and a dedicated bar. There was some food too.
Amazing seats 🏈
Throwing up the Dubs after an amazing game and great Sugar Bowl victory.

Day Five

In no particular order, we also visited Napolean House, Brennan’s, and Doris – again.

With that, we were off back home to Seattle, and getting ready for the National Championship Game.

Obligatory Delta plane cards from the Captain.
Welcome home.
See you in Houston!
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