Typically, we ask stars to share their haute secrets to Los Angeles. But how could we resist an opportunity to discover all the secret spots in The Big Easy, courtesy of a SoCal-born gal who lives and breathes them every day? That girl would be NCIS: New Orleans star Zoe McLellan, who stars on the hit CBS series special agent Meredith Brody, alongside Scott Bakula and Lucas Black. McLellan, who is also known for her role as Jennifer Coates on JAG as well as in the series Dirty Sexy Money and films like Dungeons & Dragon, Inventing the Abbotts and Mr. Holland’s Opus, first discovered her love of acting when she was a little girl, telling her aunt that she wanted to be ‘inside the TV.’ She certainly has seen that dream become a reality. An all-around creative person, McLellan is also a singer/songwriter, performing her original music in the cabaret show “L’efflueur des Sens” at the King King Club in Hollywood. McLellan, who was born in La Jolla, is a Los Angeles resident who relocated to New Orleans for her new show, also happens to be the 6th generation of her family to live in the Crescent City. Needless to say, she’s loving it. Here, she shares her insider’s guide to New Orleans.
Where were you born: La Jolla, CA
How long in New Orleans: 2 years
Neighborhood: Lakeview
Occupation: Actress
Favorite Restaurant:Peche
Best Sushi: Lakeview Pearl
Best Italian: Dominca
Best dessert: Peche
Best place for a romantic date: Bacchanal
Best Sunday brunch: Elisabeth’s
Best place for a power business meeting: Galitoires
Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Magazine Street
Best Spa:Windsor Court Hotel Spa
Favorite Charity Event: St. Baldricks
Favorite Cultural Event: Jazzfest
Best Steakhouse: Not sure, I don’t eat steak. The fish at Chophouse is great.
Best Pizza:Pizza Delicious
Best Lunch: HiVolt (casual) Dorris Metropolitan (upscale)
Best Massage: Windsor Court Hotel Spa
Best Limousine/Driving Service: Jeff (taxi service) 859.489.5079
Best Museum/Exhibit: NOMA
Describe your city in three words: Soulful, Rich, Proud
Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Preservation Hall
All-around favorite spot in New Orleans: City Park
Best Aspect of New Orleans: The music!
