The Pearl: August 2025 by Gambit New Orleans

FASHION | LIFE | DESIGN

VACATION DAYS!

EDITOR Michaela Bechler

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dora Sison

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Sandy Stein

SALES Lauren Cunningham, Alyssa Hauptmann, Bennett Geston, Abigail Bordelon, Kelly Sonnier, Charlie Thomas

CONTENT PRODUCER Marigny Lanaux

CONTRIBUTOR Tom Branighan

TRAFFIC MANAGER Jason Whittaker

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Emma Da Via, Tiana Watts

CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Maria Boue, Gavin Donaldson, Scott Forsythe, Jasmyne White

PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL

DRINK,

LOCAL! SUPPORT an d EAT,

De spite the staggering temperatures, I hope your summer has been lovely this year! While the weather hasn’t changed, the atmosphere is beginning to feel a little more autumn-like as everyone returns to town and school this August. Before diving into this issue, I wanted to start with a huge thank you to everyone who reached out about our July “Local Love” issue. We’re so happy it resonated with our readers and hope you’ll continue to support and champion all the great businesses around town that struggle during these hotter months.

O ur August issue continues that same sentiment by focusing on many of the wonderful restaurants that New Orleans has to offer.

In A Taste of the Town , we break down our recommendations for where to go based on ambiance, nearby drinks and dessert, and even the best spot for a bathroom selfie. It was fun to put this together with our team, and we hope it inspires you to visit an old favorite or try somewhere new-to-you! For another perspective on supporting local chefs and restaurants, read His Take by MaMou’s Chef Tom Branighan.

Currently reading:

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid and I Regret Almost Everything by Keith McNally

Join us:

We love partnering with The Garden District Book Shop during its Dog Days of Summer series. Our “Crafternoons” of collaging have been a huge hit, so join us for one last gathering of the season on Tuesday, August 26. Attendees will have the opportunity to say goodbye to summer with autumn-inspired mood boards! It’s free to attend and beverages will be available for purchase at Bar Epilogue.

Rock the vote:

Voting in Gambit’s “Best of New Orleans” has begun! There are 239 categories this year, so plenty of opportunities to show your favorite businesses some much-deserved love! To vote, visit bestofneworleans.com/2025 before Sunday, August 31.

T his issue also features John Michael Rowland, the co-founder of Shuck Cancer, on our cover! Learn more about the restaurateur and philanthropist in this month’s A-List and be sure to secure your tickets for Shuck Cancer (Thursday, November 20) — it will be here before you know it. Prepare to have major kitchen envy in Function Meets Flair, but you might be able to satisfy that itch by securing new glassware shown in Raise a Glass We also tackle two trends that we’re seeing everywhere and cover an adorable Shop Dog that might be one of our most pristine canines to date!

T hank you for reading The Pearl ! Let us know where you wine and dine this month and any spots you think we should check out.

- Michaela Bechler

LUNCH

Now Ne w +

BY MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX

A LL tha t Jazz

Step back in time this summer with Belle Noire , an immersive theatrical concert celebrating iconic Black songstresses of the past. The show was created by Kayla Lewis, a New Orleans-born vocalist, and honors the style and soul of legends like Billie Holiday, Eartha Kitt, and Dorothy Dandridge. The audience can expect vintage visuals, cinematic projections, elegant costumes, tap dance, and live jazz. The cast includes performers from both New Orleans and New York including Kayla’s father, veteran jazz bassist Kerry Lewis Sr.

There are two chances to see Belle Noire at the Ashé Powerhouse Theater on Saturday, August 9 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 10 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are available online (bellenoireshow.com) with 30% of the proceeds benefiting local nonprofits Second Line Arts Collective and New Orleans Dance Collective.

1731 BARONNE STREET

BY ANDREW ALWERT

L OVE a t First Page

Calling all romance readers! The Garden District Book Shop will host a Romance Bookstore Day party throughout the day on Saturday, August 9. The store will open at 9 a.m. for signed books, fun games, and free merch. The main event will begin at 4 p.m. when four local romance authors will be popping up behind the bar at Bar Epilogue for celebrity bartending. Juliette Cross, Farrah Rochon, Molly Tullis, and Alexandra Vasti will each mix up a cocktail inspired by their work and will answer reader questions!

The full day is free and open to the public. Snacks and author-inspired cocktails can be purchased at Bar Epilogue.

2727 PRYTANIA STREET

DIG In

Now is the time to cross some of those must-try restaurants off your list! COOLinary New Orleans , an annual culinary tradition, is back and will be held throughout the month of August. Diners can enjoy multi-course meals for a set price from over 100 restaurants across the city! This includes two-course lunches for $28 or less and three-course dinners or brunches for $58 or less. Visit neworleans.com/ coolinary to see all participating restaurants.

F INDERS Keepers

Louisiana is filled with hidden treasures, and vintage clothing is no exception. Chris and Megan Olsen — owners of French Quarter shops Vice & Graft and Swamp Rags — have created the Louisiana Vintage Festival , taking place on Saturday, August 23. This inaugural event will spotlight vintage finds, bringing together 40 of the best vendors from across the state! “As a side benefit, NOLA tourism is always quieter during the summer, and this provides something great for locals and tourists alike to do, while providing vendors a great event to look forward to during an otherwise very quiet time,” the two shared.

The fest will debut at House of Blues New Orleans, a fun and funky music venue that will be the perfect backdrop. “The beauty of the House of Blues venue is that the majority of the events and vendors are inside, a rare and important thing for a festival in August in New Orleans.”

Shoppers can expect a full range of items in various styles and at different price points, from high-end Victorian dress to Y2K attire and lived-in denim. Attendees will also enjoy live music, several operating bars, the venue’s full restaurant, vintage-inspired snacks, boozy snoballs, a burlesque performance, and more! To get the first look, early bird admission will be held from 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m., with general admission starting at 12 p.m. and lasting until 6 p.m.

225 DECATUR STREET

PHOTO

His TAKE: LOVE LIVE Where Y

Il ive just a few blocks from MaMou, at the corner of Rampart Street and St. Philip Street. After years of cooking in other cities, I returned to New Orleans to build something meaningful in a neighborhood that’s become home.

The French Quarter holds a complicated kind of magic, rich with history, contradiction, and resilience. I didn’t open MaMou to cater to the postcard version of New Orleans. I opened it for the people who live here.

Our goal was simple: to give the city one more thing to be proud of. MaMou lives somewhere between fine dining and a neighborhood spot, designed to honor tradition while also stepping beyond its boundaries. The menu is rooted in French technique but shaped by the cuisines of Europe and Southern Louisiana.

MaMou is meant to feel lived in, a bustling memory of its past. We built the space with the help of local artisans to feel intimate and layered, a reflection of the Quarter itself.

Restaurants are more than businesses; they’re cultural archives. Our food is our story, the grand sum of our histories. Our dining rooms are living libraries. And the French Quarter isn’t just my home but every New Orleanian’s birthright. We should be committed, in common purpose, to helping shape its next chapter, adding our voices and vision to its enduring story.

Summer gives us a rare opportunity to do just that. Without the weight of tourism, the city slows down. It’s no secret summer can be hard on restaurants, but it can also be the most rewarding time to show up.

No one has more power to support this city’s economy and spirit than we do.

Eat, drink, and be merry as champions of our city. Keep your neighborhood spots open, thoughtful, and full of life. We’ll be here with a seat waiting.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL MANTESE

CHEF TOM BRANIGHAN | PHOTOS BY SAM HANNA

Chef Tom Branighan

GLASS a Raise

Hand-Blown Decanters $145 Each, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net

Jasmine Stemless Champagne Flute Set $225, Mignon Faget mignonfaget.com

Mallard Glass $25, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com

Sir Madam Rialto Tulip Glasses $34 Each, NOMA Museum Shop shop.noma.org

Lolita Jungle Beauty Glass $21.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com

Vintage Inspired Coupes Set $365, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net

Pink Wavy Champagne Flute Set $38, Lucy Rose shoplucyrose.com

Whiskey Nosing Tumbler $14, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Lolita Aperol Spritz Glass $29.99, Nola Gifts & Decor nolagiftsanddecoronline.com

Wine Glass Gift Set

$28.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com

FLAIR Me et s Function

A Renovated Bayou St. John Kitchen

BY MARIGNY LANAUX | PHOTOS BY DAYMON GARDNER

A DASH OF DESIGN

The bar stools, lighting, and brown glass Sk LO sconces are from Eclectic Home. Ferguson plumbing fixtures, a Kohler sink, a Dash & Albert rug, KitchenAid appliances, and Mattix Cabinet Works, Inc. cabinets were a few sleek and stylish additions.

Kitchens serve as more than just a place for cooking. They’re often designated spots for entertaining, gathering, and everything in between. When Bayou St. John homeowners reached out to Penny D. Francis, principal designer and owner of Eclectic Home, with the desire for a minimal modern kitchen that also reflected a mid-century modern aesthetic, they got to work redesigning the layout based on how they lived in the space.

To allow for better flow and function, the former kitchen entrance was closed off, eliminating a pathway that previously separated the workspace from the island. Instead of traditional wall cabinets, storage was added with an expanded butler’s pantry and new cabinetry found below the countertops. This allowed the room to open, creating more space for the 8-foot ceilings and transom window. A beverage center and ice maker were also added for enhanced hosting experiences!

“An unexpected but highly functional choice was the use of refrigerator and freezer drawers on the window wall,” Penny shared. “These paneled units are tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle and keep the space feeling light and integrated. A secondary freezer in the laundry area adds backup capacity.” Set against the room’s clean color palette is an eye-catching backsplash above the stove. “The handmade tile splash serves

“The best part about this design was creating something that was not the norm and pushing the boundaries of what you think a conventional kitchen design should have and look like. They were open to pushing the boundaries while making sure design and functionality were there.” PENNY D. FRANCIS

FLOOR IT

A 24x24 Turkish porcelain tile in a neutral tone was laid in a straight pattern for simplicity and continuity.

as the jewelry of the space. Crafted in Portland, Oregon, each terracotta tile features white glaze applied in intentionally random lines, creating a one-of-a-kind pattern.” This especially stands out next to the neutral York Wallcoverings wallpaper and Sherwin Williams Modern Gray paint that cover the surrounding walls.

Since the clients are big travelers, their existing finds were integrated throughout, supplemented with items Penny sourced during her buying trips. “Our goal was to find pieces with simple, modern forms that also felt transitional — creating a cohesive and curated collection that reflects both their journeys and their refined aesthetic.”

As the heart of the home, Penny shares that renovating a kitchen is often a great investment, although it’s no easy feat. “We are constantly inundated with images of stunning interiors, and while the final result may look effortless, it’s important to recognize the significant planning and hard work that go into achieving such designs…a well-executed renovation is never accidental — it’s the result of vision, expertise, and collaboration.”

504 FINDS

Local businesses

Annunciation Contracting, Jerusalem Stone, and Davis Sales contributed their skills to this renovation.

A List The

BY MICHAELA BECHLER | PHOTOS BY KAT KIMBALL

John Michael Rowland

CO - FOUNDER OF SHUCK CANCER, OWNER OF PIGEON AND WHALE AND THE HUSKY, PARTNER AT STATION 6

National ACS Volunteer Staff Partnership Award 2024, Pigeon and Whale voted #6 Best New Restaurant to try in 2024 by USA Today

Shuck Cancer, the popular annual fundraiser supporting the American Cancer Society, originated in part from John Michael Rowland’s love of oysters and his competitive nature. When he was the Managing Partner at Superior Seafood, he traveled to Maryland in 2017 with Jay Gallet, the restaurant’s top oyster shucker, to compete in the National Oyster Shucking Championship. Jay placed second, and John Michael was introduced to a community of oyster farmers, shuckers, restaurateurs, and enthusiasts. At the same time, John Michael was participating in an ACS fundraising competition called Real Men Wear Pink, where he also placed second.

“Naturally when I was asked to come back and participate the following year, I quickly agreed and started to f gure out ways to win,” he shared. “An idea that I came up with was to host an oyster and wine event that featured oysters from all parts of the North American oyster community paired with a wide variety of wines.”

The idea quickly grew from being a small event at Superior Seafood to a block party with 700 people on the Napoleon Avenue neutral ground raising nearly $250,000 in 2018. “I will never forget the way I felt at the end of that night. I knew that we had created something that was great, something that was real. It was something that I believed would make those that I love proud of who I am.”

Shuck Cancer supports the American Cancer Society’s cancer research, patient support, and advocacy e forts and has raised $3.4 million since its inception. Of that, $2 million has bene fted the Louisiana Access to Care grants thanks to event sponsors and donors. Shuck Cancer continues to grow and will call Champions Square home for the third consecutive year in 2025.

“I believe that the rapid growth has been a combination of many things. First is the leadership of my co-founder, Henry Heaton. His dedication to continuing to improve the event has been a catalyst for growth. There is also the that the fact that the event is focused on young people using their platforms to bring about positive change…and to be honest, it is just a damn good event with a lot of energy and momentum behind it.”

The event works with local fundraisers called “Shucker Honorees” who serve as ambassadors promoting Shuck Cancer and raising funds for their personal goals to support the overall $900,000 goal (the event typically raises $100,000 over goal each year).

John Michael’s favorite part of Shuck Cancer is shaking the hands of the Shucker Honorees who donate their time and skill. “Everyone plays their part in making Shuck Cancer work. To me, it is just like a restaurant in a lot of ways. Every person plays a role that leads to success, and every role being played holds equal importance. This event embodies that spirit.”

When John Michael isn’t running his restaurants or working on Shuck Cancer, you can f nd him teaching his son Everett how to play di ferent sports, working out, and building new concepts like Soon Enough Cocktail Bar (formerly Milan Lounge).

Oyster lovers will get to try a variety of types at Shuck Cancer, and all of the shells are recycled to the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana. The event also features many non-seafood options from local restaurants.

Shuck Cancer THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Admission Times: PATRON PARTY: 6 -7 PM EVENT: 7-10 PM

Attire:

“

WINTER NICE CASUAL ( THE EVENT IS COMPLETELY OUTDOORS ) shuckcancer.org

I am very proud of what has been accomplished and hope that Shuck Cancer continues to grow not only in New Orleans, but in all the other cities that are now holding their own Shuck Cancer events.”

JOHN MICHAEL ROWLAND

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

I love the fact that I get to meet and interact with different people every single day.

WHAT ARE YOU PROUDEST OF IN YOUR CAREER?

I hope that I haven’t come to the proudest moment of my career yet. Being a founder of Shuck Cancer is without a doubt something that I am very proud of, but I will always strive to continue to make a positive impact in my community and in my own home. I hope that the proudest moment of my career will be seen through my son and his future actions and achievements.

SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS:

The fact that I can call this city my home is exciting for me. I fell in love with New Orleans when I came here for school and have never looked back.

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS: Paladar 511 and Saffron

FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE: A negroni

FAVORITE NEW BUSINESS: The Batture — great concept and use of space

LIFE HACK: Find a way to turn your passion into a business, and you will never work a day in your life.

A Taste of the TOWN

Where to Dine and Drink around the City

BY MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX

It’s not difficult to stumble into a great restaurant, bar, or coffee shop in New Orleans. If you’re planning an afternoon exploring the city or a night out on the town, narrow down the dining possibilities, whether it’s choosing a place for the ambiance or trying out two businesses in one night!

TABLE for TWO

Make a reservation at one of these intimate spots for your next romantic outing.

BAYONA

(430 Dauphine Street)

Monday, Thursday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday, 5-9 p.m.

For fine dining without the stuffiness, head to Bayona. The

cozy Creole cottage is the perfect backdrop to your date night!

SAINT CLAIRE (1300 Richland Road)

Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday, 4-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 4-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

A dreamy and delightful meal awaits at Saint Claire, a new restaurant that exudes Southern romance in Algiers. Some of the tables call for side-by-side seating, allowing you and your date to get extra cozy.

EYE CANDY

A stunning atmosphere can enhance your dining experience! These three local spots are known for their design-forward interiors.

BRENNAN’S (417 Royal Street)

Daily, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Brennan’s is beautiful inside and out, located in a fabulous pink

building in the French Quarter. Besides being known for its attentive staff and inventing Banana’s Foster, Brennan’s lavish interior makes any meal an occasion .

PEACOCK ROOM

(501 Tchoupitoulas Street)

Monday and Wednesday, 4-10 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 4 p.m.-12 a.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-12 a.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

This modern cocktail lounge inside Kimpton Hotel Fontenot is inspired by all things peacocks and features jewel-toned décor.

SAFFRON (4128 Magazine Street)

Tuesday-Thursday, 5-9:15 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m.

This sophisticated spot serves more than excellent dishes and cocktails. Design lovers will delight in every detail from the color palette to the backlit bar.

PHOTO BY SOPHIA GERMER / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE

PHOTO BY CRIS MOLINA FOR KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS

PHOTO BY KATHLEEN FLYNN / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE

Saint Claire

Peacock Room

Brennan’s

PERFECT PAIRINGS

Hit two spots in one night! Grab a drink at a bar before or after dining at a local restaurant. These combinations are all within walking distance of one another.

AVEGNO

(1726 Soniat Street)

Tuesday-Saturday, 4:30-10:30 p.m.

+ GAUTREAU’S (1728 Soniat Street)

Tuesday-Saturday, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Located right next door to Gautreau’s, Avegno is Gautreau’s newest concept with delicious cocktails, small bites, and a late-night happy hour! While planning your evening, just keep in mind that Avegno doesn’t take reservations.

PATRON SAINT

(1152 Magazine Street, Suite 101)

Monday-Tuesday, 3-9 p.m.; Wednesday, 12-9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 12-10 p.m.; Sunday, 12-8 p.m. + SAINT PIZZA

(1152 Magazine Street, Suite 103)

Wednesday, 12-9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 12-10 p.m.; Sunday, 12-9 p.m. (Tavern opens at 5 p.m. each night)

Does anything go better together than pizza and wine?

Enjoy natural wine at Patron Saint before or after your favorite pie at Saint Pizza.

PEYCHAUD’S BAR (727 Toulouse Street)

Monday-Thursday, 4-10 p.m.;

Friday-Saturday, 12 p.m.-12 a.m.; Sunday, 1-10 p.m.

+ SYLVAIN (625 Chartres Street)

Monday-Thursday, 4-11 p.m.;

Friday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-12 a.m.; Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Have a night out in the French Quarter! Located inside The Celestine, Peychaud’s is a great option for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap. Operated by the same hospitality group as The Celestine, visit Sylvain for Southern-inspired fare.

PLUCK WINE BAR & RESTAURANT (722 Girod Street)

Monday-Wednesday, 3-11 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 3 p.m.-12 a.m. (Summer Hours: Open at 5 p.m. instead of 3 p.m. until 9/13)

+ HERBSAINT

(701 St. Charles Avenue)

Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.9:30 p.m.; Friday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 5-10 p.m.

Enjoy wine and charcuterie at Pluck, a casual and cool wine bar, before stepping into Chef Donald Link’s Herbsaint for contemporary and seasonal cuisine. If you’re feeling up for a nightcap, we know a great wine bar that stays open late...

Shop Home Décor, Jewelr y, Gift Registry &Tabletop

PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE

Peychaud’s

SAVE ROOM

Don’t skip dessert! Treat yourself to these dinner-to-dessert combinations around town.

JUNIOR’S ON HARRISON

(789 Harrison Avenue)

Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

+ GAIL’S FINE ICE CREAM (789 Harrison Avenue, Suite B)

Monday-Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday, 3-10 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

After dining at Junior’s on Harrison, it’s convenient to walk around the corner to Gail’s Fine Ice Cream! This small batch ice cream shop has its own window for ordering seasonal and yearround flavors.

SABA (5757 Magazine Street)

Wednesday-Thursday,

11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-

10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9 p.m.

+ WISHING TOWN

BAKERY CAFE

(802 Nashville Avenue)

Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

After you’ve gotten your fill of hummus at Saba, complete your meal with the colorful assortment of cakes and other desserts at Wishing Town Bakery Cafe.

VENEZIA

(134 N. Carrollton Avenue)

Monday, Wednesday-Saturday, 4-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 12-9 p.m.

+ ANGELO BROCATO

(214 N. Carrollton Avenue)

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Finish off your classic Italian dinner from Venezia by walking over to Angelo Brocato for tasty gelato.

SIPS with a VIEW

A gorgeous view of New Orleans pairs well with delicious cocktails!

HOT TIN

(2031 St. Charles Avenue, Floor 14)

Sunday-Thursday, 2 p.m.-12 a.m.; Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Toast your favorite city in style with a drink at Hot Tin. This chic rooftop bar continues to be a favorite among visitors and locals alike.

BATHROOM BREAK

Not only do these restaurants serve great food and drinks, but they’ve also given special attention to design — right down to the restroom. Whether you need to freshen up or want an Instagramworthy mirror selfie, don’t forget to take a peek!

BEGGARS BANQUET

(1330 Prytania Street)

Wednesday-Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Fans of The Rolling Stones are in for a treat when dining at Beggars Banquet. For lyrics and memorabilia, a trip to the bathroom is a must for rock and roll fans.

TANA (2919 Metairie Road)

Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Tana’s fancy mouthwash dispenser and freshly rolled towels elevate the normal restaurant bathroom experience.

PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE

PHOTO BY MARIGNY LANAUX

View from Hot Tin

Beggars Banquet

PHOTO BY DAVID GRUNFELD / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE

Venezia’s

THE HUSKY (4510 Freret Street)

Sunday-Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 4-11 p.m.

This upscale steakhouse has more to ofer than just its menu. Escape to the bathroom and enjoy complimentary shots of whiskey! Plus, look behind the velvet curtain for a secret restroom covered in mirrors.

GOOD for GROUPS

These local restaurants are great for large parties, whether you’re craving shareable plates or a fun atmosphere.

COSTERA (4938 Prytania Street)

Wednesday-Sunday, 4-9 p.m.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Costera’s Family-Style Tasting menu is the way to dine! The chef-curated selection includes the restaurant’s biggest hits complemented by its seasonal offerings.

JACK ROSE

(2031 St. Charles Avenue, Floor 1)

Wednesday-Friday, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

A TASTE OF THE TOWN

Whether you’re gathering for brunch or dinner, Jack Rose is ready to greet you with inventive cocktails and great menu items. Finish off your meal by sharing the Mile High Pie!

MISTER MAO

(4501 Tchoupitoulas Street)

Monday-Tuesday, Thursday, 59 p.m.; Friday, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9 p.m.

Mister Mao is the perfect place to go with the whole crew, allowing you to try even more of its creative global plates. For big groups, the restaurant offers a generous family-style menu, so come hungry!

An INSTANT GETAWAY

Dinner can be a destination! These New Orleans restaurants will give you the feeling that you’ve taken a trip abroad.

THE BELL

(3125 Esplanade Avenue)

Monday-Thursday, 5-9:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

This Mid-City neighborhood spot transports you to a cozy

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACK ROSE

Jack Rose

English pub! Savor menu items like Fishmonger’s Pie and Steak & “Chips” that pair well with Guinness on draft or the frozen gin and tonic.

(1117 Montegut Street)

Monday-Thursday, 5-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m.2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9 p.m.

With candles, twinkling lights, a quaint garden, and a lovely staff, this French restaurant and wine bar is the perfect escape.

IT’S 5 o’clock SOMEWHERE!

Swing by these two restaurants in the mid-afternoon or after work for happy hours that offer great deals on food and drinks.

MERIL

(424 Girod Street)

Daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Daily from 2-6 p.m., enjoy discounted flatbreads during happy hour! Also save on wines by the glass, draft beer, and select cocktails.

SEAWITCH RESTAURANT

(1628 St. Charles Avenue)

Monday-Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; FridaySaturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Get $1 raw Gulf oysters during Seawitch’s happy hour every weekday from 3-6 p.m. Enjoy your oysters with $9 classic cocktails, $5 draft beers, $5 frozen cocktails, and $8 glasses of wine.

ALL SET

Experience fine dining at this new spot and a reimagined favorite — both have pre-fixe menus that are full of flavor.

EMERIL’S (800 Tchoupitoulas Street)

Tuesday-Thursday, 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5:30-10:30 p.m.

Emeril’s offers rotating tasting menus from Chef E.J. Lagasse for lunch and dinner. Savor dishes like Smoked Salmon Cheesecake, Oyster Stew, and Banana Cream Pie, with an optional wine pairing available during dinner.

THE KINGSWAY (4201 Magazine Street)

Tuesday-Thursday, 5-9:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5-9:45 p.m.

For an outstanding meal and elevated experience, book your reservation at The Kingsway. The contemporary Asian restaurant offers three options for each of

its four courses. We recommend going with a group to get a taste of everything!

SAVED YOU a SEAT

For spontaneous dinner plans, walk into this fine establishment and test your luck!

MAMOU

(942 N. Rampart Street)

Wednesday, 5-9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m.; Sunday, 5-9 p.m.

If you couldn’t get a dinner reservation at MaMou, a delicious brasserie located in the French Quarter, arrive early and ask to sit at the bar. Your experien ce will be just as memorable!

PHOTO BY CHRIS GRANGER / THE TIMES - PICAYUNE

PHOTO BY PAUL BEROZA

The Kingsway

PERK UP!

Get your daily dose of caffeine from these coffee shops that also offer pastries and a cozy atmosphere.

ST. NOIR CAFÉ

(1128 St. Roch Avenue)

Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m.8 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

For great beverages, bites, and vibes, St. Noir Café is just what you need! Enjoy coffee creations or cocktails and wine while you work, unwind, or catch up with friends.

THE CHICORY HOUSE

(2727 Prytania Street)

Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Whether you’re making a pit stop while shopping at The Rink or have time to sit and relax, The Chicory House offers quick bites, bakery items, and of course, lots of caffeine.

TRUMPET AND DRUM COFFEE HOUSE

(3642 Magazine Street)

Daily, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

This Uptown coffee house has ample indoor and outdoor seating, friendly baristas, and a wide selection of coffee, matcha, tea, and other drinks to fuel your day.

ENCORE SPOTS

These eateries were formed by chefs and groups with successful and crowd-favorite ventures already under their belts.

HUNGRY EYES

(4206 Magazine Street)

Monday, Wednesday-Thursday, Sunday, 5-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 12-4 p.m., 5-10 p.m.

This 1980s-inspired restaurant and bar, opened by the team behind Turkey and the Wolf and Molly’s Rise and Shine, offers martinis, shareable plates, and a neon-lit ambiance.

DR. JONES (1325 Veterans Memorial Boulevard)

Tuesday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; WednesdaySaturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Owned and operated by two chefs who manned Donald Link restaurants, and created Blue Giant (now closed), Dr. Jones is a must-try casual eatery in Metairie.

PHOTO BY IAN MCNULTY /

Brackish Guinea Bow Tie $225, NOMA Museum Shop shop.noma.org 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Dragonfly Scarf $29, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com

Polka Dotted Print Top $48.99, Nola Boo nolaboo.com

Sinatra Maxi Dress $158, No.22 Collective no22collective.com

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Vietri Papersoft Napkins $16.50, Lucy Rose shoplucyrose.com

Candice Dress $78, No.22 Collective no22collective.com

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5 Lemon Tea Towel $39, Maisonette maisonetteshop.com

Faherty Laguna Linen Shirt $178, Ted and George tedandgeorgenola.com 1 2 5 7 6 8 3 4 9

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1 2 4 3

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Smathers & Branson

Logo Key Fob

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2 Beatriz Ball

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3 The Relaxed Babydoll Dress

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Carrollton Fitness T-Shirt

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Autosun Brewer

Woodgrain Sunglasses

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Toile Tissue Cover

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3 5

ShopDog

BY MARIGNY LANAUX

D ottie

Age: 2 years old | Breed: Shih Tzu Store: Maisonette

Ne stled inside The Rink, Maisonette sells beautiful home additions, such as linens, antique rugs, serving ware, and pajamas. Owner Virginia Dunn focuses on stocking high-quality pieces that can withstand the test of time, listening to her customers’ desires before filling the shelves. “When a customer asks for an item we don’t have, I start looking for it…my grandmother used to tell me she was too poor to buy cheap. She had to buy the best quality she could afford so it would last,” Virginia shared. “I grew up with a lot of these products. So, it feels like home.”

It’s hard not to feel at home when an adorable pup is greeting you at the entrance! Frequently pacing around the shop and The Rink’s atrium, Dottie is an adorable Shih Tzu that loves pup cups, peppermints, stuffed animals, and tummy rubs. Sales associate Katherine Dunn brings Dottie along to work to keep the ladies company while also serving as an ambassador of The Rink alongside Pete, the Silver Labrador Retriever of The Garden District Book Shop.

Dottie loves all the attention she receives — tour guides and patrons often stop by just to see her! Although she’s only two, Dottie’s retail expertise can’t be overlooked. “Dottie is a linen aficionado. Her favorite linens are John Robshaw quilted coverlets. Nothing she likes better than to lay out spread eagle on John Robshaw.” The sweet Shih Tzu also loves Abyss & Habidecor towels and Graccioza bathmats.

If you’re looking to enhance your home, visit Maisonette for a chic upgrade. Besides Dottie’s favorites, be sure to explore the selection of placemats, pillows, napkin rings, desk décor, and the list goes on! “We love our customers, and we love helping them with their projects for their home, finding nightwear, or looking for the perfect gift. I also enjoy researching and hunting products for the store…I look for items that check my boxes: good quality, value, and great style.”