Christmas Shopping on Royal Street

A recent Saturday found The Chief Concierge and friends Christmas shopping on Royal Street, New Orleans’ most famous street for antiques, jewelry, and unique retailers. On second thought, ‘window-shopping’ is probably the correct word.

M.S. Rau

One of our first stops was M.S. Rau, known world-wide for its museum-like collection of antiques, fine paintings, curios, and incredible gems. We were invited to tour their new jewelry display and nearly swooned when one member of our group was allowed to try on a diamond ring. The stone was bigger than a golf ball and brighter than the sun.

Visit M.S. Rau Antiques at 622 Royal Street. They are kind and considerate of everyone, even folks who just want to look.  Go there.  You won’t be disappointed.

Quarter Past Time

Having primed our taste for antiques, we next went to Quarter Past Time, a French Quarter shop specializing in Rolex and other high-end vintage watches for men and women.

We aren’t the only folks who love this shop.  Google reviewer Franz K says, “Best vintage watch store in New Orleans. The owner, Mr. Julio, has been a fixture in the French Quarter for many years and his store is a museum – full of not only vintage watches but jewelry, vintage radios and other antiques. A must see stop for serious watch collectors visiting New Orleans.” 

Shop for antique watches at Quarter Past Time at 606 Chartres Street. While we were there a collector spotted his favorite Rolex in the window, swooped in, and bought it in a flash.

Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights

An antique lamp in the watch store jogged our memories and we set out for Bevolo, where they lovingly re-create historic French Quarter lighting. Bevolo has several locations, one each for the different aspects of their work.  Our favorite store is the vintage lampshade shop at 316 Royal Street, where they feature the outer-space inspired Mid-Century Modern lampshades and décor made popular by the Jetsons.

Historic New Orleans Collection Gift Shop

After a fun stop at the Touché Bar at the glamorous Omni Royal Hotel, we ducked into the Gift Shop at the Historic New Orleans Collection.  At last…Christmas gifts for everyone, including zingy Cajun hot sauces, Christmas ornaments that look like Papa Noel, historic plaques, plush alligators and chickens, and books about New Orleans history.

Check out The Historic New Orleans Collection Gift Shop at 520 Royal Street to find something for everyone on your Christmas shopping list. You can go Christmas shopping on Royal Street too.  You don’t even need a tour guide.

Happy Holidays from The Chief Concierge

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