1.
Bienville House Rating: 3.0 Pearls
Straddling two busy French Quarter streets, the historic Bienville House is as an urban oasis, with tropical rooftop terraces and a soothing courtyard. This boutique hotel has fewer than 100 rooms, a parlor-like lobby and friendly touches, such as free lemonade and cookies in the afternoon. High ceilings make the rooms feel spacious, but the decor is unremarkable, and Standard Rooms lack windows.
2.
Le Richelieu Rating: 3.0 Pearls
Authentic and funky, this historic boutique -- located in a residential area on the French Quarter's far edge -- allows guests to experience the neighborhood as the locals do. It's also an easy walk to Frenchman Street, an exciting area in the Marigny experiencing a renaissance in live music and tapas-oriented restaurants. But while the old-world decor is charming enough in the lobby, it's less impressive in the slightly worn rooms, and bathrooms are in dire need of renovation.
