You’ll quickly feel like a local after a few nights at the Chloe, a mansion-like boutique hotel set at the edge of New Orleans’ once-sleepy Uptown neighborhood. With just fourteen rooms, it’s like visiting a glamorous friend who happens to have a pool out back—and a home full of art and cultural touchpoints that tie back to the city’s history. Built in 1891, the former home of an affluent merchant still boasts some original millwork, as well as a few pieces of original furniture. A local artist curated the art, which includes a collection of striking portraits by photographer Richard Avedon, while designer Sara Ruffin Costello carved previously throw-away spaces (a hallway, a half bath) into inviting spots to sit and mingle. Mixed textiles (like alligator illustrated stair runners) are layered against rich surfaces for a fashionable yet lived-in design. The whole space, meanwhile, beckons you to dine and drink, including a jewel-box lobby bar, an airy dining room, and a casual but lively front porch.
The Neighborhood
Like the Chloe itself, Uptown New Orleans exudes an understated cool. Explore it by hopping on the St. Charles trolley (steps away from the hotel) toward the sprawling Audubon Park. Closer to home, Magazine Street, a few blocks away, offers restaurants like La Petite Grocery and Shaya, while closer by, you’ll find Mosq uito Supper Club.
The Food Scene
Whatever your vibe, the Chloe has a space to match. Mingle on the front porch with a Bloody Maria and five-spice cracklins, or duck into the lobby bar for a proper cocktail, like the mezcal-based On the Run. The forty-five-seat dining room is where you’ll find chef Todd Pulsinelli’s ingredient-driven menu—he sharpens several New Orleanian classics with Vietnamese and French influences. Think: shrimp etouffee dumplings topped with a guajillo-based satay spice; a play on deviled crab made with a red curry crafted from leftover Tabasco mash; and hoisin-laced pork belly served with shiso and pickled onions in a lettuce cup. (Pro tip: Request the private trellis room, formerly a galley kitchen, which is anchored by a table original to the building.) Out by the pool bar and patio, there’s more low-key space to lounge, where happy hour margaritas are just $7.
The Digs
Spacious and filled with natural light, the rooms feel like luxury apartments accented by unexpected touches, like a wardrobe that opens to reveal a bathroom. The rooms are designed for lingering, whether that be in the oversized tub or while listening to the stack of vinyl showcasing local foundational artists (Louis Armstrong, Allen Toussaint) curated by nearby Peaches Records—they’ll even ship you any favorites after the stay.
