NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — He's the new captain of a classic ship that sails down Bourbon Street. It's The Royal Sonesta New Orleans, the city's great hotel in the heart of the French Quarter. The new captain is the new general manager David Bilbe. A new Mardi Gras treat: King Cake Sundae at Deanie’s Seafood "We are at the center of all the attractions in the classic neighborhood of the French Quarter. Can't pick a better place to stay in New Orleans," said Bilbe. This will be a year of firsts for him. His first Mardi Gras at the hotel, first Super Bowl but not his first New Orleans line on his hospitality resume. WGNO Good Morning New Orleans features reporter Bill Wood makes the introduction. Check in to check out the grill fired up with oysters you'll desire and some fine dining at the restaurant that's a real evolution in cajun and creole. The hotel is the address for success. With 483 rooms, its the biggest on Bourbon Street and the best for balconies. Chefs in training are in class at Warren Easton Charter High School in New Orleans "All the activity that happens in the French Quarter, happens right below us from Greasing of The Pole for Mardi Gras to French Quarter Fest, to Red Dress Run. Whatever it is, it takes place right below us," said Bilbe. Bilbe came home to the hotel that rings a bell for him. "The Royal Sonesta has a special place for me personally. My wedding reception was here 30 years ago. So to be able to come back is important to me," said Bilbe. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Allstate Sugar Bowl to donate $500K to support Bourbon Street attack recovery efforts Where Y'at this Weekend: Dew Drop Inn, Temple Sinai, The Fillmore, UNO Lakefront Arena 2025 Washington Mardi Gras theme to honor military, first responders Top Senate Intel Democrat 'flabbergasted' by removal of GOP House Intelligence chair Jeffries: 'Shameful' for Johnson to remove Turner from helm of Intel panel