Bryan Cranston, star of the hit series “Breaking Bad,” is back in a major television role for the captivating drama series “Your Honor.” This time, he plays Michael Desiato, a well-liked and morally complex judge who finds himself in a catch-22 after his son Adam (Hunter Doohan) gets into an automobile accident. It is a very suspenseful thriller that skillfully balances amusement and tension, with a stellar ensemble that includes Michael Stuhlbarg as gangster boss Jimmy Baxter and Maura Tierney from “The Affair.”
The filming locations for “Your Honor,” which were set against the lively and culturally rich backdrop of New Orleans, were important in establishing an authentic and immersive environment. Every location, from the well-known French Quarter to the storied Garden District and the gritty Lower Ninth Ward, gave the story more personality.
After launching in 2020 as a limited series, “Your Honor” was later renewed for a second season, which debuted in January 2023. The series ran for 20 parts total, with 10 episodes each in both seasons, and it was a very consistent run. We’ve highlighted the primary locations in New Orleans used for filming, offering details on the scenes that were shot there, reasons to visit, and helpful advice for organizing a vacation that will be remembered as an amazing experience.
Garden District
Key Scenes: Desiato’s stately home, family gatherings, and pivotal decision-making moments.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or Fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Transportation Options: Walking or biking tours, ride-sharing services, or public transportation.
Known for its grand antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and oak-lined streets, the Garden District served as the backdrop for many of ‘Your Honor’s’ most intense and emotional scenes. This historic neighborhood, located just a few miles from the French Quarter, was the perfect setting for portraying the Desiato family’s privileged life and the judge’s personal struggles.
Several memorable scenes were filmed at the iconic St. Charles Avenue, where Desiato’s stately home was located. Fans can imagine the weight of his decisions as they stroll past the grand mansions that exude old-world charm. The nearby Lafayette Cemetery No.1 which is currently closed temporarily, with its intricate above-ground tombs and eerie atmosphere, added a haunting element to the show’s darker moments.
The Garden District is home to some of the best-preserved collections of historic Southern mansions in the United States.
Things to Do: Explore the architectural wonders on a guided walking tour
Where to Eat: Commander’s Palace is a historic eatery that embodies Southern hospitality.
Where to Stay: The Roosevelt New Orleans or The Pontchartrain Hotel
French Quarter
Key Scenes: Courtroom sequences, law office meetings, and tense confrontations.
Best Time to Visit: Fall or Spring for mild weather and lively festivals.
Transportation Options: Walking, pedicabs, or ride-sharing services.
The French Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage, served as the backdrop for many of ‘Your Honor’s’ legal proceedings and high-stakes encounters. From the imposing courthouses to the bustling streets, this iconic neighborhood was the perfect canvas for capturing the show’s gritty realism. The Crescent City Cigar Shop, located at 730 Orleans Street in the French Quarter, is actually the façade of the club that Big Mo wants to purchase, Dezi Boule.
Fans can visit the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, which doubled as the law office where Desiato and his colleagues strategized and navigated the complex legal landscape. The nearby Rib Room also made an appearance, hosting tense meetings and pivotal conversations.
Beyond its role in Your Honor, the French Quarter is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Orleans. From the lively music venues of Bourbon Street to the charming art galleries and historic landmarks, this neighborhood offers an endless array of experiences for visitors.
Things to Do: Explore the vibrant street life on a guided walking tour, or visit the St. Louis Cathedral.
Where to Eat: Brennan’s, a renowned restaurant that serves classic Creole cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting.
Where to Stay: Hotel Monteleone is a historic and luxurious hotel that captures the essence of New Orleans.
Lower Ninth Ward
Key Scenes: Gritty neighborhood sequences, tense encounters, and poignant moments of reflection.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but be mindful of potential weather conditions.
Transportation Options: Ride-sharing services or guided tours.
The Lower Ninth Ward, a resilient and culturally rich neighborhood that has faced its fair share of challenges, played a pivotal role in ‘Your Honor’s’ storytelling. This area, known for its strong community spirit and rich history, provided a raw and authentic backdrop for some of the show’s most intense and thought-provoking moments.
Fans can walk the streets where pivotal scenes were filmed, gaining a deeper appreciation for the neighborhood’s struggles and triumphs. The area’s distinctive architecture, from shotgun houses to historic churches, added a distinct visual texture to the show’s gritty and emotionally charged sequences.
Beyond its role in ‘Your Honor’, the Lower Ninth Ward offers visitors a chance to learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage and its ongoing efforts to rebuild and revitalize after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.
Things to Do: Visit the Lower Ninth Ward Village or the Lower Ninth Ward Living Museum to learn about the area’s history and culture.
Where to Eat: Willie Mae’s Scotch House, a legendary spot for Southern-style fried chicken and soul food or Café Dauphine for delicious Creole dishes.
Where to Stay: Airbnb rentals or nearby neighborhoods like the Bywater or Marigny for a more immersive experience.
The Rib Room
Key Scenes: Important character interactions and plot developments.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though spring and fall are most pleasant.
Transportation Options: easily reachable by foot, car, or streetcar.
The Rib Room is a renowned restaurant located in the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel in the French Quarter. The Rib Room offers a luxurious dining experience with a rich history. It is the site of the Baxter dinner scene that concludes Your Honor’s first season. Visitors can enjoy the same ambience that was captured in the series. The Rib Room has been a dining staple in New Orleans since 1960. It is known for its prime rib and classic New Orleans dishes.
Things to Do: Explore nearby attractions like Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral.
Where to Eat: Aside from The Rib Room, try Café du Monde for iconic beignets and coffee.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel for convenience and luxury.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Key Scenes: Various scenes showcasing New Orleans’ nightlife and character dynamics.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall for the best weather.
Transportation Options: Accessible by foot, streetcar, and taxi services.
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is situated in the heart of the French Quarter, known for its historic charm and elegance. One of the most important settings in Your Honor is the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, where gangster Jimmy Baxter conducts his illegal operations. This narrative plays a pivotal role in Your Honor. The Bourbon Orleans Hotel offers a blend of history, luxury, and a prime location. Visitors can experience the same ambience that enriched the series’ storytelling. The Bourbon Orleans Hotel was originally a ballroom and theatre in the 19th century. It is rumored to be one of the most haunted hotels in New Orleans.
Things to Do: Visit the nearby French Market for shopping and local treats
Where to Eat: Dine at Brennan’s Restaurant for a refined taste of New Orleans cuisine and a classic Southern brunch experience.
Where to Stay: For a different but equally luxurious experience, consider staying at the historic Hotel Monteleone, also in the French Quarter.
California
Key Scenes: Season two scenes.
Best Time to Visit: It varies by region, but generally spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather.
Transportation Options: accessible by air, car, and public transportation.
While the majority of Your Honor was filmed in New Orleans, a few scenes were shot in California, capturing the show’s occasional jump to other locations. The multipurpose Pico Rivera Sports Arena in California was used as the filming location for the Boutin State Penitentiary Prison Rodeo. The former Glendale Police Station in California served as the backdrop for the Houston Police Department building in the fourth episode of Season 2. Furthermore, the scene as Eugene departs the city was filmed in Los Angeles in the Joe’s Auto Parks parking lot located at 916 South Hill Street, close to the bus station.
California’s versatile scenery makes it a popular choice for filmmakers, capable of standing in for a variety of settings. The state is home to Hollywood, the heart of the American film industry.
Things to Do: Explore the iconic beaches of Santa Monica, hike the beautiful trails of Griffith Park, and visit the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or Hollywood in Los Angeles.
Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning ocean views at Nobu Malibu, or indulge in iconic burgers at In-N-Out Burger.
Where to Stay: Choose accommodations based on your region of interest, whether it’s a chic hotel in San Francisco, a beachfront resort in Santa Monica, or a cozy wine country inn in Napa Valley.
