I lived in New Orleans for a short while, from January 2007 until August of the same year.  And while I love the city, I cannot say the same for the quality of the roads.  I’m going to guess that things were bad even before Katrina, when things undoubtedly took a turn for the worse.  It’s not exactly a haven for cyclists, who have to deal with flooding, pot holes, and narrow roads.

Still, as I plan a two-day jaunt down to New Orleans, I’ve been contemplating bringing my bike along for the ride.  Luckily, I was able to hunt down this list of rides from the local cycling club.  I’m excited about the River Levee and the Lakeshore Drive routes–though the masochist in me is contemplating the alternate Red Bluff loop.

Of course, post-ride there will be plenty of good eats:  oyster po’boys at Domilise’s, beignets and cafe au lait from Cafe du Monde, and I’ll be checking out John Besh’s new restaurant, Domenica, at the newly renovated Roosevelt Hotel.  Helmed by Alon Shaya, who spent a year in Italy, brushing up on his pizza and pasta making skills, the restaurant serves up home-style “Sunday dinner” fare.