Tremé

Bounded by St. Louis Street, Esplanade Avenue, North Rampart Street, and North Broad Street and centrally located within the heart of New Orleans, Tremé (also referred to as Tremé/Lafitte) is one of the oldest Black neighborhoods in the nation. Originally a slave plantation, the land was bought by French hat maker Claude Tremé, who entered into a life partnership with Julie Moreau, a freed woman of color. Moreau later acquired the title to the plantation on which she was previously enslaved. In 1810, the city of New Orleans purchased the neighborhood, though their early residents remained largely of free people of color, like Moreau, some born into slavery and some born free, all of whom established a vibrant business market that manifested along N Claiborne. In the 1960s, an urban “renewal” plan imposed the I-10 highway. The overpass cut through the neighborhood and fractured communities, dividing the Treme and decimating local businesses. However, a subversive subculture now thrives in the shade of the I-10, keeping in the tradition of a strong Black cultural presence in the area. The legacy of Tremé’s vibrant culture also reverberates today in the area’s landmark features: Louis Armstrong Park, Congo Square, the Backstreet Cultural Museum, and the New Orleans African American Art Museum.

PROSPECT.5 EXHIBITION VENUES

New Orleans African American Art Museum (NOAAM)

PROSPECT RECOMMENDS

For feasting
Lil' Dizzy's Cafe ($)
Bourbon and Bailey’s BBQ ($–$$)
Willie Mae's Scotch House ($$)
Fritai ($$)

For small bites and drinks
Sprouts Organic Cafe ($–$$, raw vegan, gluten free) 
Backatown Coffee Parlour ($)
Addiction Coffee ($)
Fatma’s Cozy Corner ($, gluten free, vegetarian options)
Lamara Coffee and Kitchen ($–$$, gluten free, vegan)

For shopping/experiences
Louis Armstrong Park (free)
Mona’s Accents ($)
Saenger Theatre (free–$$)
E&S Gifts and Accessories ($$)
Material Life ($$)