Sextant Stays Rebrands as Roami and Announces $14m Series A Funding Round 

The hospitality brand will use the funding to support strategic vision and expansion as the company continues to adapt to the modern-day Roamer

– Sextant Stays, the next-generation hospitality company, announces its $14 million Series A funding round and simultaneously unveils a rebrand, with the company name changing to 

. The funding round is led by Vigo Capital, bringing the brand’s total funding to $29 million.

The company recognizes that travelers today are roaming the world differently than they did a few years ago — this rebrand is not just a name change, but represents the new reality of travel. Roami is shaping the future of urban travel by providing a space that is purposefully designed for groups, and six times larger than a typical hotel room. Each building is operated entirely by Roami, giving the brand creative control over the guest experience in its mission to inspire human connection. 

“It’s been an incredible six years, and we are grateful for the success we’ve had, but there is much more to accomplish!" said Roami Founder & CEO, Andreas King-Geovanis. “We’re living in the most iterative moment ever to exist in hospitality, and are among a handful of brands writing the future of travel. None of this would be possible without our extremely dedicated and talented coworkers who continuously set new standards for the industry.”

In the last three years, Roami grew 800% despite the most devastating crisis in hospitality since World War II. Following an explosive year — including its recent recognition on the 

South Florida Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Companies 2022 List

 — the innovative yet human-centered hospitality company had over $40M in revenue in 2022 and continues to grow. 

"We're excited to introduce Roami as a brand built around what we’ve termed ‘Predictive Hospitality’," said Roami COO, Brandreth Canaley. “Throughout the customer journey, our technology is collecting the dots and connecting the dots to anticipate guests’ needs before they even know they have them.” 

Stemming from this success, Roami has acquired new buildings in existing markets, and recently expanded to West Palm Beach, totaling its inventory to over 500 units across South Florida and New Orleans. Roami will use the funding to continue expansion across local markets and beyond. 

“It is great to celebrate our fundraise, but more importantly, we are celebrating what’s made this company successful,” said Roami CFO Iskander Karimov. “This is a business that should be funded by the guest, for the guest, and we are staying true to our belief: people, service, profits–in that order.”

Founded in 2016, Roami, formerly Sextant Stays, was born from CEO Andreas King-Geovanis’ belief that travelers should not be forced to choose between two flawed options: cramped and expensive hotel rooms or inconsistent and unpredictable vacation rentals. By managing the entire building – not just a few floors or units – Roami provides a memorable stay without compromise. 

“We’re proud to support Roami as they re-imagine the way the world lives, works, and travels” said Kirill Vinogradov at Vigo Capital. “The company’s consistent growth since 2020 despite volatile external conditions proves that they truly understand how to satisfy the needs of the modern Roamer and we’re looking forward to seeing their continued growth and expansion,” he added.

Roami is a next-generation hospitality brand that combines the professionalism of hotels and value of vacation rentals. On average, Roami’s spaces are six times larger than a typical hotel room, and are purposefully designed for urban, group travel. By managing the entire building, Roami has complete creative control to design a tech-enabled guest experience that inspires human connection. Visit 

Sextant Stays Rebrands as Roami

Need to escape to the south for endless sunshine and rows of palm trees? Then you should set West Palm Beach as your destination. The city's excellent weather calls for some beach-bumming and lounging but there are also plenty of activities waiting for you.

Check out our list for some ideas on how you can make the most out of your trip to West Palm Beach!!

Get the fresh air you need, put on some sunscreen and venture outside the bustling city when you go on some of the hiking trails. Walk around the 20-acre Mounts Botanical Garden to learn and see over 7,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants. The Apoxee Wilderness Trail is another option if you want to see Florida's wildlife up close.

Beyond West Palm Beach's beach and nightlife, there's also a vibrant arts and culture scene. Norton Museum of Art houses more than 8,200 works and even has a "museum in a garden" with lush subtropical landscapes and outdoor sculptures. The Flagler Museum also offers self-guided tours and changing exhibitions in its grand estate. 

No trip to this Florida city is complete without water activities. From snorkeling to scuba diving, you can also book boat tours, jet skis, and parasailing with your friends and family. 

When in West Palm Beach, one shouldn't forget to check out its exciting nightlife and rooftop bars. Places like Banko Cantina offer the perfect combo of tacos and tequilas, dancing, cocktails and rooftop bars.

Your Guide to West Palm Beach

Your Guide to West Palm Beach Activities

West Palm Beach is known for its palm trees, pristine beaches and rolling golf courses. Aside from the fantastic weather and beaches, visitors shouldn't pass up the food scene of this Florida city.

We've listed some of the must-try restaurants you surely wouldn’t want to miss. So get ready for a mouthwatering adventure from dry-aged steaks to fresh pasta and excellent wine selections. Here are some of the restaurants and wine bars for your visit to West Palm Beach. 

Looking for a place to relax with a vibrant atmosphere? The Galley at Hilton West Palm Beach offers a large fire pit and an outdoor patio where you can only eat the finest meats and freshest ingredients. The grill house offers a wide variety of dishes with a twist of international cuisine flair.  

Address: Hilton West Palm Beach, 600 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Buccan was conceived by Celebrity Chef Clay Conley, with mouthwatering dishes big on flavor but served on their signature small plate. The high-end bar and lounge is in the heart of Palm Beach with a menu that features inventive American cuisine. A must try popular dish is the tuna crisps or you can also explore their plant-based options. 

Address: 350 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480

Get on an instant nostalgia trip with your classic comfort food when you dine at Henry's Palm Beach. You'll be pleasantly surprised to see favorites like Chicken Pot Pie and Truffle Mac & Cheese in their daily featured pasta offerings. Be sure to invite your friends to the all-day dining restaurant for hand-crafted cocktails!

Address: One South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480

Where to eat in West Palm Beach

Halloween is one of those holidays that only gets more fun as you get older. 

Parties, drinks, costumes, candy? Yes, please!

And Halloween in Miami is a far sweeter treat when you know the full range of options available. 

Love to exercise? Miami has Halloween-themed running events. Love to party? The Poseidon Ferry’s got one of the holiday’s biggest parties around!

Love to be scared? There’s a haunted carnival and a special Miami ghost tour happening.

Miami has something for everyone this October. 

TRICK OR TREAT — WHO’S GOT THE FASTEST FEET?

If you’re interested in running and love the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot events, we’ve got an interesting Halloween proposition for you. Run the Halloween Half Marathon and Freaky 4-Miler (in costume, of course). Show up to Miami Beach in the Halloween costume of your choice and run the full half-marathon or the 4-mile course. Throw some sport into your Halloween in Miami this year!

Miami ghost tours on Halloween are non-negotiable. And this one comes with an upgrade: a tour right on your smartphone. Connect your phone to your car’s speakers and go on a 25-mile excursion with 15 stops, including the Versace Mansion, the Devil Tree, and the Biltmore Hotel. The tour uses your GPS and plays automatically as you drive by each site (without draining your data). 

If you’re looking to have a spooky Halloween date or soak in a little haunted history alone, check out the $10 tour.

What could be creepier than a haunted carnival? This year, you and your friends can go to the “House of Horror” at the Miami International Mall in Doral. There are four attractions in the giant 100,000-square feet mall. Start at the “Mall Mayhem,” where demented clerks and paranormal mannequins abound. Then, make your way to the infested jungle in “Toxic Apocalypse” and try not to get captured in the “1455 Asylum.”

And if you make it through alive, treat yourself to carnival rides, sweet treats, and games.

THE SPOOKY SOUNDS OF HALLOWEEN IN MIAMI AT A CANDLELIGHT CONCERT

If you’re looking for a more refined Halloween evening, show up at the Hotel Colonnade in Coral Gables for a candlelight concert. Hear orchestral versions of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the Beetlejuice theme, the Psycho prelude, and other spooky tunes you know and love. But sign up soon — you don’t want to miss out on the tickets.

Ignore scare-inducing movies like Jaws and Leviathan — this Halloween, the sea is the place to be. The Poseidon Ferry is sailing around Biscayne Bay with an epic dance party and costume contest onboard. Only adults aged 21+ can join, especially with the full-service bar with complimentary “Poseidon’s Blood” cocktails. The boat departs from Downtown Miami, so grab your friends and hop abroad before it sails away!

Halloween in this city is never dull, so we hope you have fun and stay safe!

Boo! Halloween in Miami

Miami is one of those cities you can't fully explore during a one-and-done trip. Many people visit and decide to come back for more. If you want the road less traveled this time around, check out these unique things to do in Miami. 

Take a day trip to Rapids Water Park and Lion Country Safari, or stay in the city limits with a Wynwood Graffiti Tour and a visit to Miami Brewing Company. Whatever you choose to do, we hope you choose Sextant Stays as your home base.

 for the day. South Florida’s largest water park spans over 30 acres and boasts 42 attractions, including a wave pool, 7-story speed slides, raft rides, and a lazy river. Even better, they offer deals for discounted rates from 4-7 pm on certain days.

There’s only one thing better than the zoo: Florida's 

! Lion Country Safari is one of the attractions that every Floridian agrees is a must-visit. Enjoy two sections: the drive-through cageless safari and the walk-through amusement park. And the icing on the cake: you can see Tonk, the rare baby chimpanzee born at the beginning of 2022.

Here's a party conversation starter — who else can say they held an alligator? That's exactly what you can do at the 

. On the Alligator Encounter Tour, you meet baby alligators and crocodiles, hold an alligator over three feet long, and feed over 250 gators. You can also hop on an airboat ride through the Everglades and see a show.

: by foot or golf cart. Visit and discuss the contemporary art and murals, and learn more about the history of the Wynwood art scene. 

ony Goldman, a community revitalizer and developer, created the Wynwood Walls with the goal to create a center for people to explore and expose them to the underappreciated genre of graffiti and street art. Over 80,000 square feet of the walls are covered with art from American and international artists — a true glimpse into the cultural melting pot that is Miami.

But because it’s outside, don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

There’s no better review than the one that Conde Nast gave this brewery: “​​The whole place feels a bit like a block party, where the beer is cold and everyone is welcome.” Treat yourself by ordering a flight with a unique appetizer like guava wings. As for the beer, the 

rotates its flavor lineup throughout the year. Sip on a fruity beer in the summer, and enjoy a full-bodied pumpkin beer in the fall. This is the place to kick back and relax after a day full of activities.

Unique Things to Do in Miami When You Visit

One of the most distinctive aspects of New Orleans is its French roots. It manifests in many forms including food, music, language, street names, and holidays in NOLA. And Bastille Day, held this year on Thursday, July 14, is the cream of that holiday crop.

Bastille Day – when France overthrew its monarchy, marking a transition to democracy – to the French is much like Independence Day to the US. People celebrate with fireworks and good food. 

What about New Orleans Bastille Day? There are fireworks, good food, and a lot more. Browse this guide to learn about the independence celebrations around town. 

New Orleans Bastille Day Fête 2022: Crêpes, Costumes, and More! 

Tickets are now on sale for Bastille Day Fête 2022

, the biggest locally-celebrated event of Bastille Day. Hosted by ​​Alliance Française of New Orleans in the Garden District, the Fête will feature crêpes, a champagne bar, a French DJ, live music, and kids' activities. 

When you come out to Bastille Day Fête 2022, dressing up as a French stereotype earns you a free drink ticket at the door. Think mustaches, berets (as long as you pair with another accessory), and la marinière stripes.

When it comes to drinking, New Orleans always puts their unique spin on it, and, in this city, you’ll never show up in costume alone!

Hampton Street Vineyard’s Four-Course Dinner and Cocktail Hour

Hampton Street Vineyard will host a sophisticated celebration in the Main Street District with live music, hors d'oeuvres, aperitif cocktails, and a photo booth. On the menu: smoked salmon, beef bourguignon, and peach soufflé, to name a few. 

A Symphony for Your Ears: André Courville

Enjoy the all-French concert of internationally-acclaimed opera singer André Courville, hosted by 

, a local performance arts venue. He will be joined by one of the Acadiana’s premier pianists, Kevin Martin. Together, the performance will tell the story of French music and its evolution over four centuries. Concertgoers will experience everything from 19th-century music to the hits of the 1940s and 1950s.

Bastille Day is one of our favorite events of the year. Many vendors come out to provide cold beverages, wine tastings, snacks, and live music. If you’re visiting New Orleans on July 14, this is one holiday you won’t want to miss out on.

Viva la NOLA! What to Do This Bastille Day

Thinking about cooling down your summer by the beach? Bring the whole family to Miami!

If you like to get outside and exercise, check out 

. If you want to see and learn more about the city, the 

Whatever you choose to do, all that matters is keeping the whole family together and having fun.

Here are four family-friendly ideas we’ve cooked up for you to enjoy. 

EXPLORE THE COAST WITH MIAMI BIKE RENTALS

Breathe in the ocean air and explore the Miami beaches on a bike ride with the whole family. Renting bikes is a great way to stay active and take in the Miami culture, while keeping close to the blue waters. There’s a whole host of options for Miami bike rentals like the 

. Just make sure you bring a valid ID and pay with card or via app (depending on the service.)

CRUISE THE 305 WITH THE DUCK TOURS ON SOUTH BEACH

Want to sightsee Miami but also keep the kids interested? Departing from South Beach and ending in Biscayne Bay, the South Beach Duck Tours take passengers to the Art Deco District, Fisher Island, Millionaire’s Row, and many other stops. Every tour guide has a background in acting and comedy to keep the family laughing along the way, and juicy insider information about the celebrities that live in Miami. 

SPARK CREATIVITY AT THE MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Encourage imagination at one of the largest children’s museums in the country. The museum is home to 14 interactive and bilingual galleries, all designed to stimulate a love of learning in your child. Check out the Castle of Dreams, a two-story sandcastle with a winding slide and an ambient sound experience. Or play in the Cruise Ship with a Navigational Control Station made out of legos and browse through a book at the Dr. Suess reading area. 

COOL DOWN AND SPLASH AROUND AT TIDAL COVE

Waterparks tend to be more loved by kids than their parents. But don’t worry parents, Tidal Cove is different. Located at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, the waterpark has different options for both kid and adult fun. For kids, enjoy thrilling raft rides, defy gravity with the freefall loop, and test your surfing skills at the Flow Rider®. Then eat lunch at Surf House, relax in the lazy river, and satisfy your sweet tooth with homemade gelato for the adults. 

Summers in Miami are unparalleled. With these four experiences, you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Miami Summer Activities for the Whole Family

PARTY WITH A PURPOSE — ALL THINGS ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE™️

Trade in your headphones for a live music festival this summer in New Orleans! But this isn’t just any festival, it’s the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™️.

What is ESSENCE Fest? We’re glad you asked — here’s your guide. 

ESSENCE Festival of Culture™️ is the largest festival in the country, drawing in half a million people to New Orleans every year. But it’s more than an entertainment event; there’s real cultural significance behind it.

 magazine put on a three-day event to celebrate African American music, culture, and feminism. The magazine hosted some of the most popular Black artists (including 

Though intended to be a one-off, ESSENCE Fest’s success turned it into an annual event with its tagline, “

This year’s events will be hosted from June 30 to July 3, 2022.

The lineup for this year’s festival includes 

In addition to the overarching event, there are also smaller sub-experiences festival-goers can sign up for like:

… and many more. You can find the full list of events 

Something to note is that all participants for this year must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter. 

Here are some other tips to consider before coming:

If you’re coming to ESSENCE Fest 2022, we know you’ll have so much fun. You can register 

And if you need a place to stay, we’ve got you covered!

Essence Festival

There’s nothing more iconic than spending your summer days in a city like New Orleans. Whether midday or midnight, NOLA is filled with opportunities to make fun memories you’ll never forget.

And while you’re sure to have heard of events like Southern Decadence, there are plenty of other unique festivities to find in the Big Easy like the Running of Bulls (NOLA style!) or the jazz-filled Satchmo Summerfest. 

Between stuffing your face with beignets and partying at Bourbon Street, here are a few special summer events that only a city like New Orleans could host. 

For a few days each year, New Orleans jazz takes a backseat to the spirited sounds of Zydeco. Zydeco music is native to southwest Louisiana and blends the blues with elements of French and Caribbean music. Hosted by The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Fest features Cajun food, dancing, and lots of Zydeco music. Admission is free, and fest goers can celebrate Cajun-Zydeco musicians or browse an art market, and families can participate in plenty of kids' activities.

If you’ve ever wanted to run with the bulls in Pamplona – but didn’t want to end up on the wrong side of a bull’s horn – then this event is for you. Running of the Bulls (Nola Style) is the safer cousin of the famed event in Spain. The twist? Instead of running from bulls, participants are chased by roller derby skaters armed with plastic bats, dressed in the traditional colors of the Spanish run, and wearing horned helmets. Though the actual run is July 9th, the weekend is full of fun events to check out like Fiesta de Pantalones!

There’s nothing more “New Orleans” than strolling the streets to the sound of sultry Jazz. If you nodded your head in agreement, you should check out the Satchmo Summerfest. Named for Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, Satchmo SummerFest is a family-friendly event featuring performances from both local and world-renown Jazz legends (like Wycliffe Gordon from U.S. Statesmen of Jazz). Other fun activities include screenings of Jazz films, hands-on workshops, swing dance lessons, and interactive exhibits. 

 from Les Misérables, the French Quarter is “painted” red for the Red Dress Run once a year. The annual run is a charity event populated by runners wearing red from head to toe with drinks in hand. Not a runner? No problem — watching from the sidelines is just as fun! Just be sure to wear the signature color and join the runners after to party on Bourbon Street. (Participants must be 21 years or older to join)

And what better way to end the summer than with the classic NOLA Southern Decadence event? Held on Labor Day weekend, Southern Decadence celebrates the city’s LGBTQ community with a series of parties, parades, brunches, and more. The event was first held in 1972 as an end-of-summer party among 40-50 friends. 50 years later, thousands now flock to NOLA for the iconic party and parade.

Southern Decadence is Back! Plus Summer Events to Keep in Mind

In 2002, Art Basel launched in Miami, and the city known for beaches and nightlife found itself full of art enthusiasts. Since then, tourists have flocked to the city looking to explore the arts scene, birthing areas like the Wynwood Arts District.

Want to explore the art of Miami but unsure where to start? 

From the Pérez Art Museum Miami, the World Erotic Art Museum, the Bass Museum of Art, Soundscape Cinema Miami, and The Museum of Contemporary Art — there are many places to explore, no matter your taste. Here are some of the best art museums in Miami to give you a well-rounded experience. 

Immersive Latin American Works at the Pérez Art Museum in Miami

Hailed by Condé Nast as a “magnet for art buffs and Instagrammers alike,” the Pérez Art Museum in Miami is a contemporary art museum that attracts art lovers globally. The museum features more than 3,000 permanent works and proudly displays Cuban and Latin American artists, among other acclaimed artists such as Jenny Holzer and Sam Gilliam. And don’t forget to walk through the iconic hanging gardens and Asian-inspired outdoor gardens.

Interact with clouds made of soap bubbles in an ever-changing installation at Superblue Miami, an exciting immersive art experience. With artists pushing the boundaries of what art can be – delivering powerful experiences meant to be shared – wind your way through a mirrored labyrinth by Es Devlin, discover a transcendent digital environment by teamLab, and enter an enveloping light-based Ganzfeld work by James Turrell. 

Largest Collection of Erotic Art in America at the World Erotic Museum

The World Erotic Museum – yes, you read that correctly – is located in South Beach and boasts the largest collection of erotic art in America. WEAM, for short, the museum partners with organizations like the Kinsey Institute to keep visitors’ experiences fresh with rotating galleries. Keeping in mind their 18-or-older policy, this museum is a can’t miss Miami experience featuring paintings, tapestries, sculptures, and other mediums that celebrate the human body. 

International Artists at the Bass Museum of Art

The contemporary art museum showcases the first solo museum exhibitions in the United States for international artists. The Bass Museum of Art was founded in 1964 upon a generous donation of John and Johanna Bass’s private collection of art to a 1930s art deco building previously known as the Miami Beach Public Library and Art Center. Design, architecture, and fashion abound at this Miami art museum.

Cinema with Cultural Significance at Soundscape Cinema Miami

Soundscape Cinema Miami delivers a well-rounded approach to the art scene. It democratizes cinema access by projecting films onto a 7,000 square foot wall of the New World Center, for free. The twelfth season of Cinema Series at SoundScape Park is all about recognizing diverse artists by focusing on the talent of those of African descent. This season is curated by the American Black Film Festival and features films such as “The Pursuit of Happyness” and “Father of the Bride.”

Occurs every Wednesday from October to May

Provocative Exhibitions at The Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore collections that have been loaned to New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art or London's Tate Modern in their native home. The Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami (MOCA) displays 8 to 10 installations every year and houses more than 400 works from worldwide contemporary artists like Keith Haring and Pablo Cano. Enjoy MOCA by Moonlight on Wednesday evenings and the Jazz at MOCA concert series every last Friday of the month. 

Untold Stories Behind the Unusual Art at The Museum of Graffiti

Think graffiti isn’t a form of art? You would be wrong — the world’s first graffiti museum is located in Wynwood and examines the history behind the art form starting in the 1970s. The museum’s mission is to tell the story of the marginalized artists that didn’t have another platform to create other than the streets and to transform the stories behind graffiti as we know it today.

Explore the Best Miami Museums for Art Lovers

BEST RESTAURANTS WITH PRIVATE ROOMS MIAMI EDITION

When you visit Miami, you’re anticipating sunning on white-sand beaches by blue waters with a drink in hand. At night, you’re looking forward to its vivacious nightlife. But Miami is also a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines — heaven for an enthusiastic foodie.

And sometimes, the best way to enjoy the Miami food scene is with your closest friends in a private dining setting, rather than in the hustle and bustle of the main dining room. We’ve found 6 of the best restaurants with private rooms in Miami for you and your friends to enjoy. Call ahead for reservations — these restaurants are popular, so you won’t want to wait until the last minute. 

Featured on Hulu’s Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi, Ariete can be described as a “concept without borders.” The restaurant plays on Executive Chef and owner, Michael Beltran’s, Cuban-American and French roots. The menu is subject to change based on the season but is sure to wow with its peculiar, yet traditional, flair. Come for the out-of-the-box, yet comforting food; stay for the lively, warm, and family-friendly atmosphere.

The original Surf Club first opened its doors on New Year’s Eve of 1930. A sophisticated social club, it often played host to legends like Alfred Hitchcock, Winston Churchhill, and Liberace. The club revamped and re-opened its doors in 2017 to evoke its glamorous past with bright, airy dining spaces and an extensive menu of classic Continental meals.

 Banyan Private Dining Room (seats up to 16)

Looking for a restaurant with private rooms in Miami, but also want something open and possibly outside? Call Byblos, an eastern Mediterranean restaurant with a vibrant color palette full of blues, golds, and whites. Whether you dine in their downstairs room or the breezy patio, you’re guaranteed to leave relaxed and satisfied. 

 Downstairs room or the patio (small groups and up to 36 people)

For those whose ideal night-in involves Chinese takeout, step it up to the next level with Hakkasan. Hakkasan offers traditional Chinese food with a contemporary twist and impeccable plating that is sure to spice up your Instagram feed.

Zuma is a Michelin-starred, Yelp-favorite Japanese restaurant in downtown Miami. With internationally acclaimed izakaya cuisine similar to a tapas bar, the word izakaya means “stay-drink-place” in Japanese. So, come to Zuma with your friends, order drinks, and stay for its delicious dining choices.

 Private dining room (small groups and up to 36 people)

 Varies, depending on party size (call for more information)

Combine gourmet Mediterranean cooking with seafood, and you have upscale restaurant Estiatorio Milos. The brilliant chef and restaurateur behind the concept, Costas Spiliadis,  wanted to differentiate his restaurant from other Greek eateries by creating a new culture around the island’s cuisine. To that end, fresh fish arrives every day from the Mediterranean. You won’t want to miss out on this authentic Greek menu.

 The Main Bar (12 or fewer), the Marketa, or Semi-Private Dining

 Varies, depending on party size and chosen menu (call for more information)

6 Best Restaurants with Private Rooms in Miami

The experience of intimate dining with friends and family in a cuisine-rich city like New Orleans is too good to pass up.

But finding quality restaurants for private dining in New Orleans can be a hassle. There are no accurate filters on Google or streamlined ways to find the best options (unless you want to call around and, let’s be real — no one wants to do that).

So, we’ve done the hard work for you and found five of the best spots to dine privately with 10 (or 30!) of your best friends. Let the good food times roll. 

6 RESTAURANTS FOR NEW ORLEANS PRIVATE DINING 

Heard of Oysters Rockefeller? Then you’ve heard of Antoine’s. The oldest restaurant in New Orleans, Antoine’s is home to some of the tastiest, well-known dishes like Pommes de Terre Souffles and Eggs Sardou. While you can order Oysters Rockefeller anywhere, you can’t get the original, secret family recipe anywhere but Antoine’s.

 The Mystery Room, The Dungeon, 1840 Room, Escargot Room

 $36-$50 per person, depending on the menu

Le Chat Noir opened its doors in mid-December 2021 and has been thriving ever since. Enjoy sustainably sourced, local seafood prepared by a head chef who previously cooked for Michelin-starred Lyle’s in London. And, boy, does it have history. Before it was ever Le Chat Noir, it was a longtime cabaret and lounge. Call your friends and dive into this foodie heaven with a cheeky past.

 Varies, but your personal budget per person is taken into consideration

Your mouth will water at Calcasieu’s well-rounded, farm-to-table selection. Prepare yourself for the freshness of homemade sausages, cured meats, and baked bread with authentic Cajun and Southern flavors. The Wine Room offers the most intimate dining experience flanked with cherry wood furnishings created by a local carpenter and, yes, wine. 

Duck Confit and Seared Red Snapper are only a few of the items on the four-course menu at Gautreau’s. Zagat named this the best restaurant in New Orleans in 2014, and for a reason. The restaurant is in a renovated apothecary, one of the most unique settings for private dining New Orleans can offer. 

Located in the Irish Channel, Atchafalaya is perfect for those looking for Southern comfort combined with the charm of fine dining – brunch or dinner – and smooth jazz. In fact, Atchafalaya was named “one of America’s top ten urban brunch spots.” Atchafalaya offers one semi-private room, thoughtfully dubbed “The Poker Room.” But whether you’re playing poker or just shooting the breeze, space is limited so be sure to call ahead!

This restaurant, owned by famous chef and TV personality Emeril Lagasse, sits in the heart of the French Quarter. Enjoy traditional Louisianian cooking with twists of Acadian, Southern, and global influences by a world-renowned chef.

 Jackets are recommended, but not required. T-shirts, shorts, hats, and flip-flops are not permitted.

 Varies, but around $2500 for foods and drinks

Your Guide to Private Dining in New Orleans

Trading in your snow boots for sandals this holiday season? Miami is the perfect place to experience cheer. From twinkling palm trees to garland-wrapped lifeguard towers and snowmen made of sand, Miami puts its residents and visitors in the holiday spirit in its special way.

So, go on -- embrace the unconventional. Celebrate the holidays Miami-style with these popular holiday events.

For the best annual Christmas tree and lighting show, head to 

. The city covers a 52 feet tall Christmas tree in lights and flowers and tops it off with a shining star. It's an easy and low-fuss way to get into the holiday spirit.

As the "World's Largest Holiday Theme Park," 

 has something for everyone. Carnival rides, acrobatics, magic shows, and games are lit from within with dazzling Christmas displays and stunning light shows. And with South Florida's tallest Christmas tree onsite, Santa himself couldn't miss it -- be sure to make time to stop by and say hi!

Boaters in Miami don't play around when it comes to Christmas, so the 50th anniversary 

 is something you don't want to miss. Every year, millions of viewers flock to the 12-mile parade route along the Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park to watch as boaters try to outdo the next with gorgeous, entertaining light displays. 

 dives fully into the Christmas spirit using Amoled lights and sound technology to make animal-like structures come to life. Visitors get 3D glasses for the full effect.

 is a Christmas-themed pop-up bar open at Gramps in Wynwood and the Doral Yard in Downtown Doral, from November 26 to December 26. Featuring festive holiday décor and Christmas-inspired cocktails, you’re sure to make Santa’s nice list for visiting!

 holds several holiday events for both adults and families. This year, the Gilded Age's Old and New World influenced the Estate's historic decor. Visitors are transported back to a time of pure elegance with melodies of Tchaikovsky and scents and the spices of the season. Their annual Mistletoe and Martinis event provides an even more immersive experience. You can also enjoy a relaxing cruise on a 45-foot Corinthian catamaran as an escape from the holiday hustle and bustle.

This is not your typical Hanukkah celebration. The 

 considers itself the nation's number one holiday party in Miami. This year, Miami's famed LIV nightclub hosts and, come, Christmas Eve, clubgoers will be decking the halls from sunset to sunrise.

With a city filled with beautiful buildings and skyscrapers, all you have to do is close your eyes and point for an epic rooftop NYE party. The 40th floor of EAST is a prime choice for beautiful views and The Gale South Beach. But this year's chart-topper is Fontainebleau Miami Beach, where they'll put on a legendary NYE party with superstar Doja Cat and special guest Alesso.

Tropical Holidays: How to Celebrate 305 Style

After a lengthy break from its yearly large-scale live celebration,

 is coming back full force -- with interactive art, music, and enchanting experiences.

Art Basel is the leading global platform that connects collectors, galleries, and artists through large multi-day art fairs. They host events across the globe from Hong Kong to Miami Beach in their mission to create unique artist-led experiences and strengthen local art scenes. Art Basel Miami launched in 2002 as an ideal nexus point between North and South America. Since then, the city’s art scene has thrived.

The 2021 event opens to the public on December 2-4. It will host hundreds of artists that make up the spectrum of mediums to showcase some of the greatest works the contemporary art scene offers.

What makes Art Basel such an enormous attraction is the participation of Miami’s premier hotels and partners hosting pop-ups and lively art exhibitions. Beachside, there will be musical performances, outdoor installations, experimental retail pop-ups, and more to create an immersive cultural affair outside Art Basel’s main show.

From multi-sensory labyrinths to exclusively curated art to celebrity appearances, here are some of the best experiences you won't want to miss. 

Dive into the festivities early at Wynwood Walls, the unofficial headquarters of the Wynwood Arts District known for its lively collection of curated mural art. Here, it will host 13 installations from global artists to add new murals along the outdoor museum walls. This year's theme is "Agents of Change."

Take a stroll through Miami Design District's Jungle Plaza with a full-size, multi-sensory labyrinth installation brought to you by immersive artist Es Devlin in celebration of the 100th birthday of Chanel’s iconic fragrance, Chanel No. 5. You'll feel like you're in a real magical forest surrounded by over 1,000 trees measuring 100 feet in diameter with walls up to 22 feet high. Sound, lights, and scent will transport you to a fairytale dream.

From November 30 to December 2, the Confidante and Museum of Graffiti collaborate with renowned female graffiti artists, activists, and skateboarders to construct, paint, and activate a unique large-scale skate ramp in the hotel's backyard. On December 2, the Skate Nymphs, a female empowerment panel hosted by Yes Julz, will take over the skate ramp to show off some serious shredding. Few and Far Women will be an accompanying art exhibit for view and purchase on the first floor of The Confidant.

Enter the Platinum Studio, where American Express will host curated experiences that celebrate emerging creators outside the Miami Beach EDITION hotel. From December 2-4, find interactive and shoppable exhibits from exclusive curator Artsy, dinner with Global Dining Access Chef Mario Carbone, and signature classes by Equinox that feature yoga, sound baths, and Pilates. End the week with a grand send-off concert on Saturday night featuring Grammy award-winning superstar, Lizzo.

Ever wanted to test out the world's most comfortable bed?  Hästens Miami will debut the coveted $500,000 Grand Vividus Bed in collaboration with Ferris Rafauli, Drake's legendary Toronto home designer. They'll be offering private sleep sessions and trials, so go ahead and schedule some "me" time between Art Basel events. Hästens will also be offering "Sleep Spa Basel Breaks" in the showroom with spa experiences like acupuncture and massage treatments, mood-lighting, noise-canceling headphones, relaxing scents, and more. You may not want to leave.

Art Basel 2021

WHERE TO GET THE BEST OYSTERS IN NEW ORLEANS

New Orleans has a rich history and culture serving some of the best oysters in the United States. No matter what district you’re in, you can stumble, shuck, and slurp your way to gastro goodness. 

Here’s a list of the top 10 places to make that happen.

1. Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar | French Quarter

Felix's is known for putting oyster bars on the map in New Orleans. And with a menu as extensive and oyster-focused as theirs, it's hard to deny. From raw oysters on the half shell, grilled oysters, buffalo oysters, Oysters Rockefeller, fresh oyster du jour to oyster pasta, salads, and platters, it's one of the best places for oyster fanatics and beginners alike. 

Love Oysters Rockefeller? Look no further than the kitchen that invented the decadent dish in 1899. Many have tried to imitate the original Oysters Rockefeller, but according to legend, Jules Alciatore, the dish's inventor, is said to have taken the original recipe to his grave. You can also get Oysters Thermidor, Oysters Bienville, and Oysters a la Foch.

Roami Blog