New Orleans Magazine January 2016

JANUARY 2016

myneworleans.com $4.95

WYES-TV presents the sixth and final season of “Downton Abbey”

january 2016 / VOLUME 50 / NUMBER 4 Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Managing Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Contributing Editor Liz Scott Monaghan Food Edit­or Dale Curry Dining Edit­or Jay Forman Wine and Spirits Edit­or Tim McNally Restaurant Reporter Robert Peyton Home Editor Bonnie Warren web Editor Kelly Massicot Staff Writer Melanie Warner Spencer Interns Lani Griffiths SALES MANAGER Kate Sanders (504) 830-7216 / Kate@MyNewOrleans.com Senior Account Executives Jonée Daigle Ferrand, Lisa Picone Love Account Executive Brittany Gilbert

Production Manager Staci McCarty Production Designers Monique DiPietro, Antoine Passelac, Ali Sullivan traffic coordinator Jessica DeBold Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive VICE PRESIDENT Errol Laborde Vice President of Sales Colleen Monaghan DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS Cheryl Lemoine Event Coordinator Margaret Strahan Distribution Manager John Holzer Administrative Assistant Denise Dean SUBSCRIPTIONS Sara Kelemencky SUBSCRIPTIONS Assistant Mallary Matherne WYES DIAL 12 STAFF (504) 486-5511 Executive Editor Beth Arroyo Utterback Managing Editor Aislinn Hinyup Associate Editor Robin Cooper Art Director Jenny Hronek NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE Printed in USA A Publication of Renaissance Publishing 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 Subscriptions: (504) 830-7231

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New Orleans Magazine (ISSN 0897 8174) is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC., 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 828-1380.

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The opinions expressed in New Orleans Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

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contents Drago’s

62 FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

ON THE COVER

52

King Cakes

8

INSIDE

15 of the best

By Sara Roahen

“Endymion Makes the Turn”

62

2016 Tops of the town

Our Readers’ Picks

We sent writer Sara Roahen to discover the ultimate King Cakes, and boy did she deliver!

See if your favorites made the cut and discover new flavors, starting on pg. 52.

14 speaking out

Editorial, plus a Mike Luckovich cartoon

70 the Struggle for education

16

Next month marks a 60th anniversary

By Dawn Wilson

151 Try This

88

New Orleans Magazine’s Guide to Schools

125 area public and private universities, private elementary and secondary and charter schools Compiled by Kristi Ferrante

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JULIA STREET Questions and answers about our city

“Hanging Ten: City Surf Fitness”

152 STREETCAR

“Election Night at the Monteleone”

Photographed by Marianna Massey Typography by Ashlee Arceneaux Jones

contents

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108

THE BEAT

LOCAL COLOR

THE MENU

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MARQUEE

36

me again

106 table talk

Entertainment calendar

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PERSONA

“Riding With LeCourir: Chickens or every pot”

38

MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS

108 restaurant insider

“Gloriosa At the Ball: Minding your pinks”

40

Joie d’Eve

110 FOOD

“Sorry About That: A comment that got away”

42

IN TUNE

“A Fast Start: The march toward Carnival”

44

Read & Spin

Jay H. Banks: King Zulu 2016

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Biz

“That Silver Lining: Business outlook is partly cloudy”

26

Health

“Skin Deep: Itching to cure winter woes”

28

HEALTHBEAT

The latest news in health from New Orleans and beyond

30

crime fighting

“Causes for Hope: A new Governor and a new year”

46

JAZZ LIFE

“Allen Toussaint: A poet in time”

32

CHRONICLES

“When Thoth Reigns: Uptown’s special parade”

“Parade Rest: Kid-friendly Mardi Gras eats”

Truck Farm, Ruby Slipper and Roux Carré

“Oysters Easy: Shell raising recipes”

112 LAST CALL

The Raspberry Beret

114 DINING GUIDE

A look at the latest albums and books

48

HOME

“Owner’s Touch: George Benedetto designed many elements of his Metairie showplace”

DIAL 12 D1 “Downtown Abbey” season 6 on Masterpiece premieres Sun., Jan. 3 at 8 p.m. on WYES-TV/Channel 12. This Emmy® and Golden Globe® award-winning hit drama returns for a sixth and final season of intimately interlaced stories centered on an English country estate – an entertaining formula that has made “Downton Abbey” the highest-rated drama in PBS history.

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inside

Endymion Makes the Turn

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ardi Gras 2013 was still a month or so away, but a never-beforeseen maneuver took place along Canal Street that diverted eyes and stopped traffic along the route.

Endymion, master krewe of all things big – including its number of riders – was preparing to reveal a new float which would be Carnival’s longest. The nine-part tandem vehicle would celebrate the old Pontchartrain Beach amusement park. Blinking lights moving rapidly would create the speed sensation of the old Zephyr roller coaster. Different units depicted different scenes, including one that represented the beach’s food. A scent – essence of hamburger (with onions) – was sprayed at the crowd. There would be music and throws and 220 riders, more than the number of some entire parades.

Before the float’s parade debut there were some practical concerns, the biggest being how the 375-foot float would negotiate the turns, the most critical being at N. Carrollton Avenue to Canal Street. Thus, on this quiet night before the Carnival season, there was an unannounced rehearsal. With representatives of the krewe, the police and interested parties looking on, the float would be pulled from Orleans Avenue to Canal, into downtown and then winding its way toward the Superdome.

As the float negotiated the crucial turns, officials walked at its side noting the swing factor, how much space would the big tandem take to make the turn. On parade night, barricades would be spaced at the determined distance so as to allow flow. The rehearsal was a success.

My spot for watching Endymion’s march is near the corner of Canal and S. Scott streets. It is only a few blocks from and within eyesight of the Carrollton turn. On the night of the Endymion parade there was great anticipation for the new float, which would be unlike anything every pulled in a parade anywhere of any type.

Already Endymion had established itself with record-length signature floats (one called “Welcome to New Orleans and the Mardi Gras” and the other the steamboat, like “Captain Eddie’s SS Endymion”) but none would provide as much of a total sensory experience. By the time the new float, which was placed near the end, approached Canal, the parade had been marching for a couple of hours. (The procession is so long that its lead units are often approaching the Superdome destination point just as those at the end are starting to move.)

Those in the crowd could see the big float approaching and began pointing toward it, but then it stopped – and stayed stropped. Something was wrong.

We learned later that while the barricades were correctly placed, the anxious crowd had pushed the barricades in. Some of the float’s units had to be detached, pushed around the corner and then reattached.

Those who create things that are intended to be the biggest and brightest face high risks and occasional setbacks. That comes with believing. The Beach float has made its way successfully in two Carnivals since. Last year Endymion introduced another new float (E-TV) with a video screen, possibly the world’s biggest, from which the crowd could look back at itself.

Brilliant new LED lighting now illuminates the parade, and the ideas keep flowing. As Endymion moves toward its 50th anniversary it has a lot to be proud of; having to keep the crowds back is surely a measure of success.

on the web Tops of the Town Each year, New Orleans Magazine looks for your vote for the Tops of the Town. Categories range from favorite poor boy to favorite local dive bar and you pick the best! Save the date for our annual Tops of the Town party! This year, our party will be on Wed., Feb. 24, at Generation’s Hall. Be on the lookout for more information and a way to scoop up your ticket at MyNewOrleans.com/Events.

Events Calendar Right on the homepage of MyNewOrleans.com is our daily events calendar. Our calendar is user-friendly in both access and submitting your own events. Do you have an upcoming event for your business? Or maybe you want to see what’s going on this weekend. Look no further than the MyNewOrleans.com events calendar.

Be Social Bring New Orleans Magazine and MyNewOrleans.com into your social circle. “Like” us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for all things New Orleans all the time. Blogs, stories and news articles are all posted daily onto each of our social media sites. We even have a Pinterest! So come join the party and let New Orleans Magazine be part of your friends.

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meet our sales team

Colleen Monaghan Vice President of Sales (504) 830-7215 Colleen@myneworleans.com

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Jonee Daigle-Ferrand Senior Account Executive (504) 830-7257 Jonee@myneworleans.com

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Brittany Gilbert Account Executive (504) 830-7298 BrittanyG@myneworleans.com

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SPEAKING OUT

Carnival

A joyous splash

C

arnival reminds us of the annual outburst of azaleas.

Each year, otherwise ordinary bushes inconspicuously bunched around town and still wearing their winter colors of drab green, suddenly burst with flowers, enriching the landscape with splashes of reds, pinks and purples. Some whole blocks radiate as though spirits with palettes were sent to manifest winter’s end. But then one day, just as the spectrum seems most pervasive, it’s gone. The flowers have withered or blown away. The season, though brilliant, is short. There will be other brief color displays throughout the year, including irises and crepe myrtles, but nothing is as overwhelming as the azaleas at their peak.

Quickly the memory of the flowers is forgotten, all the better to build the surprise for the coming year.

By the Thursday before Mardi Gras, Carnival becomes dominant in the city’s life. Formerly the largest crowds were found on Saturday, Sunday and then on Mardi Gras, but now the

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buildup begins on Thursday with the ever-popular Muses parade joining Babylon and Chaos.

On Friday, the combination of the sassy Le Krewe d’Etat preceded by effervescent Hermes draw the first of the weekend revelers.

On Saturday evening, Carnival’s biggest parade, Endymion, is such a force that it dominates the Canal Street and Mid-City area. (Earlier impish Tucks and stately Iris have filled the Uptown route.) Bacchus on Sunday as always attracts high numbers, as does Thoth, which is becoming a Bacchus-sized parade. Between the two is the ever-creative march of the Krewe of Mid-City. On Lundi Gras the combination of Orpheus and Proteus provides two of Carnival’s most beautiful parades. Then there’s the big day itself, awakened by the boisterous Zulu and highlighted by Rex King of Carnival who presents Carnival’s definitive parade.

Preceding all that was the first weekend of parades highlighted by Sparta (with its magnificent King’s float pulled by mules and illuminated by flambeaux), Carrollton and Pon-

tchartrain. In the days that followed, Ancient Druids brought a stylized parade to the streets and the relatively new group of Nyx built on the female base that Muses started.

Carnival has grown in many ways during recent years, including the new street level walking groups, such as the Organ Grinders and Bearded Oysters, that now add humor to parades.

On the big day itself, one of Carnival’s most visually spectacular moments is the procession of the Society of St. Anne though Marigny and the French Quarter. The hundreds of maskers provide some of the season’s best costumes.

By Mardi Gras night the season drags to a close enforced by the police who, at midnight, will have their own procession in the Quarter announcing that it’s time to move on. Carnival’s last visual moment is on television as the Captain of Comus, having seen off Rex and his court, oversees the closing of the season.

On the day after Mardi Gras, trash has been pushbroomed into piles throughout downtown. Included in the rubble are strings of broken beads and bobbled baubles flung from the parades. Where there was face paint the day before some people have black smudges on their forehead from having attended Ash Wednesday services. Carnival has traversed from dust to dust.

How grand the flora had been, but now it’s gone. Jazz Fest isn’t far away. Maybe by then the jasmine will be fragrant. n

AN ORIGINAL ©MIKE LUCKOVICH CARTOON FOR NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE

JULIA STREET /

WITH POYDRAS THE PARROT

TH E PUR S UIT TO AN S W E R E T E RNA L Q U E S TION S

Zatarain’s shrine in New Orleans Louisiana in the 1930s

Dear Julia, When I was a little girl my granny would take me out, and two of the places I remember most were the Poor Clare Nuns and Mr. Zatarain’s house. Mr. Zatarain’s basement was filled with items people would bring there in honor of their favorite saint or a saint they had prayed to and gotten their wish.

I remember seeing prayer statues and rosaries all over the basement.

My question is: How did this get started and what happened to all of these items after he died?

He would sit on his porch with visitors and they would talk for a little while, and then we would go down to the basement. There were always more items than our last visit.

I enjoy my monthly New Orleans Magazine.

My heart will always be in New Orleans. I lived in Uptown all my life and lived 43 years in the same house before leaving New Orleans.

Thanking you in advance, Kay Tripp Ocean Springs, MS

In the late 1920s, prior to his wife’s death in March ’30, Emile A. Zatarain Sr. established at his 925 Valmont St. residence a religious shrine which, as time went on, grew from a holiday display to an increasingly elaborate and unusual spiritual sanctuary. Although the shrine was clearly in operation during Charlotte Niedermann Zatarain’s lifetime, it was in the years following her demise that the creator of Pa-Poose Root Beer expanded it into an eclectic block-long nonsectarian religious attraction that was open, free of charge, to “God’s people of any religious creed or nationality.”

It is impossible do justice to the full range of sights to be found at Zatarain’s self-made shrine.

There were ponds, representing the River Nile and holding “holy gold fish.” Statuary and tokens of thanks abounded. There were scenes from the Holy Land and the life of Christ. Visitors could see, among other things, Crown of Thorn plants the owner had brought back from a visit to Jerusalem, depictions of the grotto beneath the

Church of the Nativity, the Star of Bethlehem and stone paths painted with inspirational text.

Zaratain’s deep faith and sincerity were apparent, and advertisements he placed to promote Zatarain’s Miraculous Shrine were exceptionally detailed.

In one such ad, which appeared in April 1955, the 89-year-old self-described Christian Worker invited people of “all nationalities and creeds,” as well as scientists and artists, to see shrine attractions, which included his three foot- square plaster of Paris plaque showing an agonized Christ. The hand-painted plaque depicted the Savior as having “uplifted gray eyes for sorrow, his mouth wide open showing the rear teeth, showing pain and agony … with hair the color of a filbert nut fully ripe …”

The shrine continued in operation well into the 1950s, but appears to have closed before its

Win a restaurant gift certificate

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Here is a chance to eat, drink and have your curiosity satiated all at once. Send Julia a question. If we use it, you’ll be eligible for a monthly drawing for a tour and Creole breakfast for two at Degas House or a Jazz Brunch for two at The Court of Two Sisters. To take part, send your question to: Julia Street, c/o New Orleans Magazine, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 or email: Errol@MyNewOrleans.com. This month’s winners are: Karen Boudreaux, Marrero; and Kay Tripp, Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

JANUARY 2016 / myneworleans.com

photo courtesy of state library of louisiana

founder’s death at the age of 93 in March ’59. I was unable to determine what happened to the shrine artifacts. A few years after their patriarch’s demise, the Zatarain family’s spice and extract company closed its Valmont Street headquarters, opening a new factory at Gretna. McCormick acquired the Zatarain brand in 2003.

Dear Julia, Watching a segment on Ch. 12’s “Lost Restaurants,” I recalled a restaurant on Jefferson Highway and Mylan Street. It was Marion Tucker Steak House. I dined there for a celebration as a teenager. The restaurant was quite nice and served good food. Was it family owned?

When did it close? I drive on Jefferson Highway often, and every time I pass by the memory of eating there returns to mind. Hoping you and Poydras can inform me.

Karen Boudreaux Marrero In 1944, Marion R. Tucker established a restaurant at 1007 Jefferson Highway, later opening the well-known Tucker’s Steak House at 701 Jefferson Highway. It was this business which inspired Tucker’s son, Marion B. Tucker, to establish his own restaurant up the road at the corner of Jefferson Highway and Hyman Drive. The younger Tucker’s eatery opened in ’74, operating it though the mid-’80s. Flame broiled Kansas City beef was a house specialty, but Marion Tucker’s also served seafood and featured an adjoining cocktail lounge. In 1985, Marion Tucker’s offered a $4.25 weekday lunch buffet and a dinner buffet, which cost $6.25.

Dear Julia, My late grandmother use to

keep bundles of dried vetiver root as a natural room deodorizer and moth repellent. I think she used to get it from a place somewhere north of the lake.

Do you have any idea what her source may have been?

Thank you.

Sherryl Williams New Orleans Dried roots of vetiver, a type of East Indian grass, were a fixture in many old Louisiana households, where bundles were used as sachets to provide a nice odor and repel clothes moths. From the early 1930s through at least the late ’50s, the Northshore was home to what was reputed to be the nation’s only commercial vetiver farm.

In 1931, strawberry farmer W. I. Jennings of Pine Ridge Plantation at Pleasant Ridge near Hammond was looking for a way to enhance his farming income. Starting with five vetiver plants he acquired from a local man, Jennings began commercially cultivating the grass.

By the early ’40s there were an estimated 50,000 vetiver plants growing at Pine Ridge.

Jennings even devised a rolling machine somewhat like a cigarette roller for bundling the cleaned and dried roots into one-ounce bundles for commercial sale. The vetiver farm at Pine Ridge was sold in ’43 but remained in operation until at least the late ’50s.

In 1932, The Vetivert Essential Oil Company was incorporated at Mandeville.

Area farmers were encouraged to grow vetiver but soon found it to have a limited market in an age when modern perfumes and insecticides were heavily advertised and readily available.

The processing plant at Mandeville failed to turn a profit. By 1938, it had closed. n

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the beat MARQUEE / PERSONA / BIZ / EDUCATION / HEALTH / CRIME FIGHTING / CHRONICLES

“The interesting part about Zulu is that most people know about the fun stuff, but my whole life has been about trying to help people and trying to make this community better. And the discovery I made is that in Zulu, social aid is as real as pleasure.”

persona pg. 22

greg miles PHOTOGRAPH

THE BEAT / MARQUEE

OUR TOP PICKS FOR JANUARY EVENTS

BY LAUREN LABORDE

Bill Wadman photo

Mindy Tucker photo

Marianna Prjevalskaya

A Musical Month

King Cake Babies

Michael Che Live

Now settled back in its former home at the Orpheum Theater, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra has a robust calendar this month. On Jan. 8 the LPO presents “The Firebird,” a concert celebrating Russian composers featuring Marianna Prjevalskaya, winner of the 2014 New Orleans International Piano Competition. For a two-day engagement, Jan. 16-17, the singer known as the “Ambassador of Soul,” Ellis Hall, performs the music of Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder with the orchestra. On Jan. 21 they’ll perform “Carnaval!,” a festive program featuring lively selections from Berlioz, Verdi and Respighi. There are also two concerts not at the Orpheum to catch: “Russian Greats,” Jan. 10 at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s Patrick F. Taylor Library and “A Fair to Remember: The 1884-1885 Concert Season in New Orleans,” Jan. 27 at St. Louis Cathedral. Information, LPOMusic.com

Fittingly, the third annual King Cake Festival (Jan. 31, Champions Square) benefits babies – not the plastic kind, but the ones at Ochsner Hospital for Children.

Vendors include local stalwarts like Haydel’s and favorites from farther away, like Mr. Ronnie’s Famous Hot Donuts in Houma. To preemptively burn those calories, the festival opens with the Gladiator Games, which includes a 1-mile fun run. Information, KingCakeFestival.org

As the presidential election ramps up, the satire of “Saturday Night Live” is more interesting than ever.

Comedian Michael Che, previously a correspondent on “The Daily Show,” serves up his signature deadpan take on the news as anchor of the show’s Weekend Update segment, and you can see him live Jan. 6 at One Eyed Jacks.

Information, OneEyedJacks.net

CALENDAR Jan. 6. Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc streetcar ride, French Quarter.

Information, JoanOfArcParade.com

Jan. 15-31. Sweet Charity, Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts. Information, RivertownTheaters.com

Jan. 6. Phunny Phorty Phellows parade, Uptown. Information, PhunnyPhortyPhellows.com

Jan. 19-24. Motown the Musical, Saenger Theatre. Information, SaengerNOLA.com

Jan. 15-Feb. 14. Sleeping Beauty, Le Petit Theatre. Information, LePetitTheatre.com

Jan. 22-31. The Light in the Piazza, Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Information, JPAS.org

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SPOTLIGHT and Pussyfooters. One of the fixtures of the latter category is the Camel Toe Lady Steppers.

Formed in 2003, it’s known for sparkly black and pink attire, sophisticated dance moves and their annual spot in the Krewe of Muses. The group hosts its 12th annual Toe-Down Jan. 9 at the Public House, which benefits the group’s charity, Roots of Music. The event includes music, dancing, carnival games, a silent auction, a raffle and more. Ashley Shabankareh, a New Orleans musician and fundraising chair for the Toes, talks about the event and gives her advice maintaining stamina in the Carnival season.

Groove on the Move Ashley Shabankareh tells how the Camel Toe Lady Steppers get ready for another Carnival season and their annual Toe-Down.

D

uring Carnival, you can’t throw a bead without hitting one of the city’s many dance troupes and walking krewes. For grown-ups who envy those high school marching bands or who missed their calling as flag-twirlers, options abound for ways to get that parade marching adrenaline: there’s the 610 Stompers, a group that rides parades on motorized Lazy Boy chairs and myriad allwomen groups with cherry names like Sirens, Cherry Bombs

Jan. 23. Krewe du Vieux, Marigny. Information, KreweDuVieux.org Jan. 23. Comedian Patton Oswalt, Mahalia Jackson Theater.

Information, MahaliaJacksonTheater.com Jan. 29-Feb. 9. Carnival parades Jan. 29-Jan. 31. Family Gras, Veterans Memorial Boulevard.

Information, facebook.com/FamilyGras

Craig Mulcahy PHOTOGRAPH

There are so many Carnival dance groups … Who paved the way? What’s it like seeing so many other groups on the parade route? Do any dance-offs occur? There are

a tremendous amount of Carnival dance groups today!

Whether they realize it or not, I think a lot of the Carnival dance groups pay homage to the Baby Dolls more than anything else.

The Baby Dolls made it possible for all women to parade and dance in costumes. We take the legacy that they paved the way for to heart.

In terms of seeing other groups on the route, it’s pretty incredible. I’m always enamored of the unique flair that each group puts into their

routines and outfits. Dance-offs never occur; we’re all in great support of each other – cheering on each other before and after every parade.

What’s your advice for maintaining stamina through the Carnival season, both as a marcher and a partier? As a

marcher: eat before the parade.

You’ll be marching and dancing your booty off! Socks first; this was the most crucial advice I could get from seasoned marchers. Pre-park a car downtown – your sore legs and your fellow dancer friends will thank you later. Stay hydrated!

As a partier, drink water.

Know your limits. Find your closest places to go pee – you don’t want to be stuck with nowhere to pee on Mardi Gras day!

A little glitter can go a long way to cover up that exhaustion.

What else does the group have planned for the season? Do you have a theme this year or anything people should look out for? In addition to our an-

nual Toe-Down and marching in Muses, you can be on the lookout for our Small Dance Group performing all throughout the city. Our theme is kept under wraps until Muses – keep your eye out for our pink, silver, black and camel toes.

For more information on the Toe-Down, visit CamelToeLadySteppers.org n

Jan. 29. Barry Manilow in concert, Smoothie King Center.

Information, SmoothieKingCenter.com Jan. 30. G-Eazy in concert, Joy Theater. Information, TheJoyTheater.com Jan. 31. Tool and Primus in concert, Smoothie King Center.

Information, SmoothieKingCenter.com

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THE BEAT / PERSONA

Council presidents Dorothy Mae Taylor and Jim Singleton. Currently, he’s at the Dryades YMCA heading up a program that trains locals to work in the city’s booming medical field. Despite all his public work and penchant for a night of playing cards at the Zulu club, Banks says he’s a homebody who loves a good book.

Q: What are some of the things you like

about Zulu? What were you attracted to about the organization? The interesting part about Zulu is that most people know about the fun stuff, but my whole life has been about trying to help people and trying to make this community better. And the discovery that I made is that in Zulu, social aid is as real as pleasure. The stuff that Zulu does in the community was the major attraction for me. I think that what we do in the community is far more important than what we do on Mardi Gras Day. Now, we’re known worldwide for the Mardi Gras Day stuff. But the magic about Zulu is that what we do in the community isn’t done for the glory, it’s done for the good. So we have all the glory with the fun and parading, but the good that we do is done for the community – that’s the part that’s magic to me.

Q: Tell me about what you do with YMCA.

Jay H. Banks King Zulu 2016

BY LAUREN LABORDE

J

ay H. Banks is attracted to Zulu and Carnival in general for the reasons that don’t get as much press as the golden coconuts and revelry: he loves tradition, family and bettering communities. Like many past Zulu kings, Banks has deep local ties. The Uptown native’s mother was one of the first black graduates of Tulane University; his father was one of the founders of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and a friend of Dr. Martin Luther King; and his godfather is the reverend A.L. Davis Jr. Banks served as chief of staff for City

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I am the director of the School of Commerce … We have a nationally accredited, state certified, practical nursing program, which has an excellent passing rate on the licensing exam and a 100 percent employment rate for our students who are successful on the exam.

Since Katrina, there’s definitely a lack of trained medical personnel in this region, and then when you multiply that by the new BioMedical research facility and all the new hospitals coming on line, there’s a tremendous amount of employment opportunity for trained individuals. And we want to marry those opportunities with the people that need them the most, people who are already here.

Q: What are some of the things you like

to do during Carnival, besides Zulu? I live right off of St. Charles, and one of the joys I

GREG MILES photograph

Age: 55 Profession: Director, Dryades YMCA School of Commerce Born/raised: Uptown New Orleans Resides: Uptown Family: Wife, Artelia; kids Ryan and Garland; grandchild, Dakota; parents, Gloria Bryant-Banks and the late J. Herbert Banks III Education: H. W. Allen, McMain, Dillard University and Springfield College Favorite movies: The Godfather; The Good, the Bad and the Ugly; Kill Bill Favorite TV shows: “The Boondocks”; “American Pickers”; “The Tonight Show”; “60 Minutes” Favorite bands: Al Green; Robert Cray; Leon Bridges; James Rivers Movement Favorite food: Lobster Favorite New Orleans restaurants: “That’s like asking someone to pick their favorite child.” Favorite hobby: Cooking Favorite vacation spot: San Francisco

have of Mardi Gras is sitting on my front porch watching parade go up and down my street. I love engaging with people as they go to and from the parades. We decorate my house with Mardi Gras beads, and oftentimes you’ll find me standing out at my gate, wearing something with Zulu, talking about Zulu, and if the right conversation happens, some lucky paradegoer or someone who’s leaving the parade will end up with a coconut.

I was born here; I’m immersed in Mardi Gras. After Katrina I did an interview in Texas asking me about

Mardi Gras and all the craziness that goes on, and one of the things foreigners don’t understand is, for New Orleanians Mardi Gras is a family celebration. All of that drunken debauchery you see going on in the French Quarter, that ain’t nobody from New Orleans. I will guarantee you, you ain’t gonna find one New Orleanian who has taken their clothes off for a pair of beads.

Growing up we watched parades at the corner of 6th and St. Charles. One of the first independent acts my mother allowed me to do was walk from my family’s spot down to where my wife’s family was, at Euterpe and St. Charles, on Mardi Gras Day. My wife and I started dating when I was 13 and she was 12. It was amazing to me that some of those families that were there at 6th and St. Charles when I was a child, they have great-great-grandchildren there now.

There’s a ritual I have every Mardi Gras: After the parades, we go to my cousin’s house. I got a thing about hot dogs, so I gotta go by them on Mardi Gras Day. Don’t care where I am or what role I’ve had, I go there Mardi Gras Day to get my hot dog. And this year I’ll be going in the limousine, so we’re very excited about that. n

True confession I’m a person who collects antique watches and loves to grow orchids. I’m very involved in politics and I’m a knock-down, drag-out type of politician, but I have a softer, gentler side most people would not believe even exists. myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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THE BEAT / BIZ

Economic Facts The New Orleans metropolitan statistical area is the largest in the state and is composed of Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Plaquemines, St. Tammany, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist and St. James parishes.

Employment here is now about 563,700, about 38 percent larger than the Baton Rouge area.

The local port system ranks among the largest in the world in terms of tonnage moved.

The city is home to several universities, the largest being the University of New Orleans and Tulane University.

That Silver Lining business outlook is partly cloudy

By Kathy Finn

I

f making a resolution to improve the local economy had any real potential, now would be a good time to make the commitment.

Forecasters say that local business growth could hover at a brink between positive and negative territory during the coming year, and any nudge could make a difference.

The New Orleans region, the state’s largest metropolitan area, will see “meager growth” in 2016 if current trends continue unabated, says Loren Scott, one of the state’s leading economists.

Scott, who annually teams with fellow Louisiana State University professor James Richardson to present an economic outlook for Louisiana, says the local area may add 2,900 jobs this year, which translates to a growth rate of

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just a half-percent.

In 2017, the New Orleans area will add 5,100 jobs, economists say.

Key factors that will affect job growth this year include an expected decline in federal investment as the bonanza of spending by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which helped buoy the city during the past decade, peters out.

That decline, says economists, along with layoffs in the energy sector stemming from low oil prices, will largely offset employment gains in other areas.

New Orleans is still home to thousands of people who work in office jobs related to the oil and gas industry. And layoffs by Shell, with more than 2,300 employees and contractors in One Shell Square, and Chevron, with 720 workers in Covington, could produce some pain.

New Orleans is a tourism magnet, drawing more than 9 million visitors last year.

Shell is thought to be planning a cut of as much as 30 percent of its local work force, and Chevron has tabled a previously planned expansion at its Northshore site.

In addition, job hits lie ahead in some other sectors: • Jacobs Technology, the company that operates NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in eastern New Orleans, will cut about 200 of its workers after failing to win renewal of its NASA contract.

• Renaissance Rx suspended plans for adding 425 employees to a new headquarters in New Orleans.

• The Times-Picayune will close its print facility, laying off 100 workers.

• Harrah’s Casino may look to reduce its minimum employment by 500 to 600 workers.

As for the New Orleans area, Scott notes that despite economic advances during the past decade, local employment remains nearly 10 percent below its pre-Hurricane Katrina peak.

Joseph Daniel Fiedler Illustration

Statewide Pain Economists Scott and Richardson say low energy prices will stunt job growth statewide over the next two years, but the continuing development of big industrial projects will help drive job gains, particularly in the Baton Rouge and Lake Charles areas.

“We have never seen an industrial expansion like the one underway” around Baton Rouge, Scott says.

He and Richardson predict that the state will add 15,400 jobs in 2016 and 19,600 in ’17.

“Normally these numbers would be a lot better except for what’s going on in the oil patch,” Scott says.

He predicts a “modest recovery” in oil prices, which recently have languished in the low $40s, to an average of $55 a barrel in 2016 and $60 a barrel in ’17

But the area’s underlying strength is evident in the fact that it achieved that employment level despite losing 4,500 jobs at Huntington Avondale Shipyard.

Now, after six years of construction work, the university medical complex has begun operating its new 424-bed downtown hospital that will add an estimated 1,110 jobs to the region.

And the new Veteran’s Administration Hospital is scheduled to open soon right next door.

Meanwhile, Oschner Foundation Hospital is undertaking a $250 million expansion that will add six floors to its

west tower.

These health care additions will be a big help in countering energy job losses, Scott says, adding that New Orleans “is poised to enjoy a major employment boost in a sector that is also high-wage.”

In addition, an $826 million expansion is on tap at the airport, along with nearly $1 billion worth of condominium construction within the city.

The initial portions of the four-phase South Market District development are leased up, and construction has begun on additional downtown apartments, retail, condos and a hotel renovation.

Four Seasons plans a $364 million renovation at the World Trade Center, and several other hotel and condo projects are moving toward construction.

Scott also says it’s possible that the greater New Orleans area could see much stronger growth than his forecast indicates.

Some $24.6 billion in expansions and new construction in the petrochemical sector have been announced for the region upriver from the state’s largest city, and many of these projects now are in the design or permitting stages, with help from New Orleans engineers and architects.

If most of these projects “go vertical” over the next two years, the jobs forecast for the region will be much brighter, Scott says.

The economists also emphasize that the expected slowing of job growth across Louisiana will not completely unwind the substantial progress the state has made in recent years.

“If our forecasts are near the mark,” Scott says, “Louisiana soon will have more than 2 million non-farm employees for the first time in the state’s history.” n

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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THE BEAT / health

Tips for Your Tips “For chapped lips, we generally recommend Aquaphor ointment or simple ChapStick with as few ingredients as possible. Carmex and other aromatic balms can sometimes irritate and worsen lips.”

Skin Deep Itching to cure winter woes

by Brobson Lutz M.D.

P

otholes the sizes of outhouses, overcooked shrimp and high humidity rank toward the top of that list of frustrations in this city we call home. Our gumbo soil breeds potholes like rabbits. Restaurants overcooking shrimp either go out of business or live off tourists. We utilize heating and airconditioning to reduce high ambient humidity to more livable levels – at least for inside microenvironments.

Humidity, of course, refers to the amount of water vapor in the air. Warmer air can hold more water vapor. While high humidity fuels mold growth and dust mite expansions that play havoc with allergies, it’s a curse with a silver lining. Humidity is your skin’s best friend. New Orleanians as a group spend less on moisturizers than inhabitants of cooler and more arid areas. And we have prettier skin.

When the warm and muggy days of summer turn to the cooler and damp days of fall and winter, humidity falls. Even so ambient humidity levels usually stay high, explaining

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our bone-chilling wet and cold days even with temperatures well above freezing. But the air inside our mostly poorly insulated offices and homes is still warmer and dryer than outside.

Winter brings our own set of winter skin woes.

Skin isn’t a mere wrap for the body. It is actually an organ, the largest human organ. Skin is a five-layer Doberge cake of connective tissue, pigment cells, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, blood vessels, elastic fibers, nerves and even a Vitamin D factory topped by thin four- or fivelayers of cells called the epidermis.

“The No. 1 skin problem I see in winter is xerotic eczema, also known as eczema craquele or asteatotic eczema. It is commonly called winter itch,” says Dr. Neil Farnsworth, a young and popular Uptown dermatologist who moved back to his native New Orleans from Texas a few years ago.

Dermatologists are great wordsmiths.

“Xerosis” I knew was a medical terminology for dry; “eczema” is usually just another word for dermatitis; oh, and “asteatosis” is skin

You can often use the same products on hands and feet, but sometimes you need different properties or characteristics for different sites.

A great new product is Excipial Daily Protection Hand Cream from the Cetaphil folks. It’s moisturizing but not at all greasy. For thick, scaly feet I often recommend something with a gentle acid to soften the feet such as AmLactin, CeraVe SA or Excipial with 20 percent urea.

Generally speaking, synthetic socks wick moisture away from feet better than cotton. In our humid climate that difference can be subtle. If nylon socks made you sweat more, it may have been due to a tighter weave or perhaps thicker fabric.”

Source: Neil Farnsworth M.D., 891-8004, FarnsworthDermatology.com

dryness caused by a decrease in oily secretions from the skin’s sebaceous glands. But Farnsworth sent me running to a dictionary to find that

Winter Skin Care “Prior to getting out of the shower, while still wet and warm, I rub a thin coat of Aveeno Daily Moisturizer over my entire body. It’s a dimethicone water-based cream.

When in the states, I purchase the Wal-Mart “Equate” brand, as it’s cheaper. Since I’m wet and it’s water-based and dissolves quickly, a few squirts covers my entire body. If time allows, I air dry for a few minutes, then towel off. It’s amazing how well it works.

If my feet get dry and cracked in the winter, I lube them up with Udder Butter or Albolene before putting on my socks. By the end of the day, they feel great.”

Source: Joe Rawlings M.D., psychiatrist who began his training at Charity Hospital and now travels the globe for the U.S. Department of State

“craquele” originally referred to the fine pattern of cracking that distinguishes old paintings.

For many men in their mid-30s to early 40s, the first medical symptom of aging begins with itchy lower legs. The usual history is that a hot bath relieves the itch temporarily, but the itch quickly returns. Scratching makes things worse and selfinflicted red streaks on both lower shins are common. In general women are better moisturizers, and these early winter skin manifestations are less common in women.

Prompt intervention with a good moisturizer is usually all it takes to stop the itching.

More advanced cases of winter skin itch progress into the eczema craquele category with skin that’s cracked as well as dry and itchy. Again, the worse areas are usually the lower legs over the shins, but other body parts can also be involved. The dermatology literature describes advanced cases as looking like a dried up riverbeds or cracked porcelain vases.

“Moisturizers are definitely not made equal. Dermatologists generally recommend creams over lotions, which often contain more drying alcohols. The top moisturizers contain special oils found naturally in human skin called ceramides. Several brands now contain these, and while they may cost more my patients often make a strong point of thanking me for introducing them to these,” says Farnsworth.

“Besides lower humidity and inside heat, hot water baths, harsh soaps and even electric blankets can aggravate winter skin dryness,” he continues. “I have seen some everything from first- to third-degree burns from electrical blankets, and recommend using them with caution and automatic shutoffs if possible.”

He continues, “Daily baths are fine for good hygiene; however, we don’t need to put soap all over every day.

Lukewarm water is best. I often recommend using soap on the body-folds daily, and other spots such as arms, legs and back with every other day. And make sure you use a mild soap. Interestingly Ivory, Irish Spring and Dr. Bronner’s are the three worse offenders I see. Dove Sensitive, Vanicream and Cetaphil are much milder soaps.” n

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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THE BEAT / HEALTHBEAT

Fit NOLA, an initiative created by Mayor Landrieu, is coming to a phone app near you.

The app will bring New Orleanians and those

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visiting the city personalized nutritional guidance from Ochsner Health System’s Eat Fit NOLA initiative. Fit NOLA will also have information from a multitude of local health and fitness initiatives and more than 200 Fit NOLA coalition member organizations. When you download the app, from either iTunes or Google Play stores, you’ll be instantly matched with food items from more than 100 local restaurants approved through the Eat Fit NOLA’s pre-designed parameters that will match to your personal nutrition preferences. Mayor Landrieu said in a statement about Fit NOLA, “This groundbreaking app will continue the work the city is doing to build a culture of health.

As we approach our 300th anniversary in 2018, our commitment to healthy lifestyles across our community will be a model for the rest of the country.” More details can be found on fit.nola.gov.

LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine’s Professor and Chair of Psychiatry Howard Osofsky M.D. Ph.D., has been asked to co-direct the National Child Traumatic Stress

Network (NCTSN) Terrorism and Disaster Committee. The Terrorism and Disaster Program of the NCTSN “works to promote the behavioral health of children and families by strengthening our nation’s response capacities before, during and after acts of terrorism, disasters and mass violence.”

With acts of terrorism and violence escalating around the world, Osofsky has been asked to claim this role for the second time.

For years, Osofsky has worked to develop psychosocial prepardeness programs for first responders and mental health professionals to improve responses following disasters and terrorism. Osofsky’s work in the city after Hurricane Katrina, as well as his help consulting and providing training in New York following 9/11 will aid in the NCTSN’s goal to help our community.

On Dec. 3, the Senate voted 52-47 to repeal “large portions” of the Affordable Care Act and defund Planned Parenthood. The “symbolic” vote, which makes good on all GOP promises to

voters, was passed with full knowledge the President Obama would veto it and that the proponents lacked the two-thirds majority to override it. Congress has actually held multiple votes to repeal parts of the health care law, but this was the first seen by the president after the House is expected to pass the legislation. According to the Los Angeles Times, the bill will repeal the ACA’s individual and employer mandates, as well as “do away with a long list of taxes imposed on wealthy individuals, pricey ‘Cadillac’ insurance plans and health-related industries that help pay to cover the uninsured.”

– Kelly Massicot

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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THE BEAT / CRIME FIGHTING

Causes For Hope A New Governor and a New Year

By Allen Johnson Jr.

E

ach January is always a challenge for this column. Readers (and the writer) want to begin the New Year on a hopeful and optimistic note.

For years now, serious reporting about violent crime in New Orleans, the ongoing federal reformation of the New Orleans Police Department, Orleans Parish Prison and similar topics are more likely to invite cynicism – or at best cautious optimism.

Entering 2016, a trained eye and a curious mind can spot “silver linings” in the darkest clouds: Reclaiming Bunny Friend Park “We have to bring people together,” newly elected Governor John Bel Edwards said recently.

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He should start with a visit to New Orleans.

He should meet, talk and pray with area residents of Bunny Friend Park in the impoverished, majority black, Upper 9th Ward.

The city playground was the scene of the mass shooting of 17 mostly young people – the night after Edwards’ Nov. 21st election victory.

Governor Edwards can offer words of comfort to the wounded, solace for the traumatized and encouragement for shaken residents of this area.

He should extend state protection to any witness who helps police identify and jail the cowardly armed thugs responsible for gunplay that sent hundreds of panicked men, women and children running for their lives and 17 others seeking medical help for bullet wounds, including a 10-year-old boy.

The Governor should help the crime-weary residents of Bunny Friend and the rest of the 9th Ward because they helped him to get elected – the day before the shooting.

As everyone with a television knows by now, Governor Edwards is a white, rural, religious conservative, a “pro-gun” Democrat and former Army Ranger from a multi-generation law

enforcement family.

We know Edwards, a state representative for Amite, defeated Republican opponent, United States Senator David Vitter of Metairie, by 56-44 percent of the more than 1.9 million votes cast statewide.

We also know that Louisiana’s 64 parishes, New Orleans gave Edwards the largest margin of victory: 81,902 votes (87 percent) to Vitter’s 12,748 votes (13 percent).

What many may not know is that a New Orleans Magazine review of the Secretary of State’s online election results shows that voters in the predominantly black 9th Ward/Precinct 23, the site of Bunny Friend Park, gave the Governor-elect a stunning 99 percent victory: Edwards 134, Vitter 2.

By comparison, Edwards’ widest margin of victory in all 84 precincts of his native Tangipahoa Parish was 98 percent and in only two precincts.

(He carried his home parish by 60 to 40 percent.)

Our review also shows that Edwards’ racially diverse Democratic campaign swamped Vitter in another 12 majorityblack voting precincts around Bunny Friend Park – by margins of 99 , 98 and no less than 97 percent.

East of Bunny Friend, Brian Hubble illustration

more than a few 9th Ward precincts gave Edwards 100 percent of the their vote.

Further West of the playground, the vote-rich 7th Ward precincts of the Tremé neighborhood, the boyhood home to Louisiana State University star running back Leonard Fournette, also gave Mr. Edwards’ 97, 98 and 99 percent margins of victory.

From a crime-fighting perspective, the Bunny Friend-fueled election of Governor Edwards is reason for citywide optimism.

Governors have played a key role in New Orleans crime since Hurricane Katrina decimated the NOPD in 2005.

In the summer of 2006, after the mass shooting in that year of five young men in Central City, then-Governor Kathleen Blanco granted requests by Mayor Ray Nagin and NOPD Chief Warren Riley for Louisiana National Guard troops to help the depleted police force keep the peace.

One year ago, on Jan. 4, 2015, a testy Democratic Mayor Mitch Landrieu repeated earlier calls to reluctant Republican Governor Bobby Jindal for more state help battling violence in New Orleans.

“I have once again called on the state to step up and do its part in fighting violence on the streets of New Orleans. State Troopers have proven to be a helpful supplement and a visible deterrent as the NOPD continues to rebuild; however, as these resources have gone away, crime has spiked,” the mayor wrote, adding: “For New Orleans to continue to generate jobs and tax revenue for our state, it is imperative that the State of Louisiana continue to provide immediate additional resources to help protect our residents and visitors.”

Jindal relented, after urging the city to watch its spending and pick up the pace of

rebuilding the NOPD. The strong support of 9th Ward voters for Edwards should help New Orleans survive a tough state budget year in 2016 – at least, crime-wise.

Why New Orleans Matters & the NOPD Consent Decree In a November address to the nonprofit New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation, Jonathan Aronie, the lead Consent Decree Monitor of the court-supervised plan to reform the NOPD, reported “real, substantive progress areas in many areas” in 2015: • New and revised NOPD policies “reflecting national best practices and a constitutional balance between public safety and civil rights;” • A new Force Investigative Unit to conduct “quality” probes of officer use of force; • An “impressive” Crisis Intervention Team with special training to handle the more than 3,000 emergency calls to NOPD each year involving people with mental health problems; • And the NOPD-initiated “body-worn camera program” – the “most robust of any major city in the U.S.” Much work remains as the NOPD Consent Decree enters its third year in 2016, says Aronie.

A Boston native, he says he’s optimistic about NOPD reform this New Year – partly because of the “unmistakable resilience of the New Orleans community.”

Aronie quotes Why New Orleans Matters by local author Tom Piazza, who found the character of New Orleans comes “from the spirit that is summoned, like a hologram … from the people who live here … and those who have chosen to live here and those whose parents and grandparents and ancestors live here.” n

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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THE BEAT / Chronicles

Thoth 1947

When Thoth Reigns Uptown’s special parade

BY CAROLYN KOLB

T

here is an urban myth that a family who owned a building on Magazine Street for many years, finally decided to sell. They sold it, but only with a clause in the deed: The new owners had to allow them porch and yard access on the Sunday before Mardi Gras every year.

Some people just never want to miss their yearly dose of Thoth!

Thoth’s Sunday Uptown parade route was designed to pass by as many institutions as possible – hospitals, orphanages, homes for the elderly. The first parade was in 1947, and Arthur Kelly, Thoth’s publicity director, announced in The New Orleans States Jan. 12, 1948, that “the route had been fixed with the single purpose of bringing Mardi Gras festivity to those who are unable to get out and meet it.”

In its early years, the parade started on Washington Avenue at Prytania Street, turned on Jef-

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ferson Avenue, then to Magazine Street, to Henry Clay Avenue, to Tchoupitoulas Street, turning onto State Street and then down Prytania back to Washington.

Today’s route starts at State and Tchoupitoulas streets, goes to Henry Clay, to Magazine, to Napoleon Avenue, to St. Charles Avenue, to Canal Street, to University Place and then back down Canal to Tchoupitoulas to Poydras to Convention Center Boulevard to end.

Thoth’s route still passes institutions, including Children’s Hospital and Poydras Home. That idea of treating shut-ins to Mardi Gras was even followed by residents of the parade’s Uptown neighborhood.

Edward Ireland remembered his great aunt Lucie Dolhonde, who lived on Webster Street, taking him as a child to the corner of Magazine to see the Thoth parade. “Then we would walk over to the DePaul Mental Hospital so I could put my little

beads and trinkets past the fence,” he says. “There were other children doing the same thing.”

The brick fence along Henry Clay Avenue that used to enclose DePaul’s bears numerous Thoth souvenirs. Linda Barrett recalls waking up in the morning at her Henry Clay home and “the high school bands would always be standing along the fence waiting for Thoth to start.”

“The kids would carve their initials in the bricks,” Barrett says. “It’s a little memento of all the band members who waited so long.”

The 2013 King of Thoth (or “Pharaoh” as he’s called in the organization), Frank Guastella, says one of his favorite Thoth activities is, “the walk we do on the Wednesday before Mardi Gras.” The krewe pays a special visit to institutions along their route. “We bring Mardi Gras to them before the parade,” he says.

His visit as Pharaoh to Children’s Hospital was especially meaningful. “The year after I was a page in Thoth for the first time I spent six and a half weeks in that hospital with pneumonia,” Guastella says. With several family Thoth members, Guastella was a page in 1980 and ’84, when his two sisters were maids in Thoth, and he joined the Krewe in ’91 at 15.

Gary Genco ruled as Pharaoh of Thoth in 1998.

Genco had moved to New Orleans from his hometown of Bogalusa in ’84. His first New Orleans parade experience was as a member of the Krewe of Endymion. After that, he was introduced to Thoth’s captain by a mutual friend in Bogalusa, the longtime captain of that city’s Krewe of MCCA. “When I first moved here I didn’t know anyone. I met people through Mardi Gras,” Genco says. “Thoth really turned out to be like a family, I met friends I would never have met if I hadn’t joined Thoth.”

But Genco did have a childhood experience of Carnival. “When we were little, my parents couldn’t get off from work to bring us to New Orleans for Mardi Gras except for Sunday. We would pick up Buck’s Famous Fried Chicken in the French Quarter and then see the Thoth parade from Canal Street,” Genco says.

During his parade ride as Pharaoh, “when we turned the corner on to Canal Street, that memory just came and flooded me with emotion.”

When he managed to save only his Thoth scepter and crown from Hurricane Katrina, Genco was devastated at the loss of his costume.

“Then I realized, it’s the memories you have in your heart that count.” n

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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LOCAL COLOR ME AGAIN / MODINE GUNCH / JOIE D’EVE / in tune / READ+SPIN / JAZZ LIFE / HOME

Saintseneca will be in town Jan. 20. The band manages to blend a wide range of acoustic Americana instrumentations with modern indie sounds and equipment. There is a constant swing on Saintseneca records between spare low-fi sounds and ecstatic bursts of harmony. This show will be spectacular.

Nick Fancher photograph

in tune pg. 42

LOCAL COLOR / ME AGAIN

Riding With Le Courir Chickens for every pot

BY CHRIS ROSE

F

or seven years, I rode a painted pony through the cornfields and rice paddies of Cajun Country on Fat Tuesday in the annual unholy ritual called Le Courir de Mardi Gras.

It is a celebration without peer; an Acadian original born on the prairies of southwest Louisiana; a tradition of equal parts revelry, intensity and savagery.

The ritual begins at sunrise when some 400 or so riders assemble at the National Guard Armory in downtown Eunice. Each rider’s costume is inspected and, once approved, the rider is given a shot of warm brown liquor with which to toast Le Capitan, the man wearing the purple, green and gold cape – the only rider without a mask – who will lead the unruly horseback revelers into the countryside, where the fury will be unleashed.

Those whose costumes are deemed lacking in effort are sent home.

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Le Capitan is trailed by a white van filled with hundreds of cases of Budweiser and two men who will spend the day throwing cans to riders who beckon them with raised arms. No catch, no beer.

The van is followed by a trailer in which a four-piece Cajun band has set up. They will play the same four songs throughout the entire ride – all eight hours and 14 miles of it – over and over.

Chanky-chank, chanky-chank goes the triangle and the highpitched cries of the fiddle drift out over the flat, cold prairie; a sound so winsome and proud that it stings the eyes.

The riders follow the band, a colorful cavalcade of revelry riding horses streaked with paint, carrying saddle bags packed with Boone’s Farm strawberry wine, Crown Royal or local moonshine.

Easy Peace, they call it. It helps negotiate the bracing wind that slaps like a wet tail across the prairies of St. Landry Parish on most Fat Tuesday mornings.

Le Capitan leads us in procession out of town. Hundreds of townsfolk line the route, wishing us a good ride, shouting “Hey, Mardi Gras!” and children run alongside the horses begging for coins and trinkets.

We make a long, circuitous route around the town, stopping at about two dozen farmhouses along the way to do our own begging. We ask for sacks of rice and baskets of peppers and onions and celery with which to make a gumbo after the ride.

And chickens. We beg for chickens.

Mardi Gras is not a good day to be a chicken in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana.

The riders gather in fields next to farmhouses where proprietors have welcomed us to their property, and they raise chickens over their heads before releasing the poor fowls to their unfortunate fate.

The riders dismount and break into a sprint after the chicken.

The men give chase, falling, tackling and fighting to get the prize. Catching a chicken at Mardi Gras is a rite of passage, a badge of honor, a ceremonial initiation into adulthood for young men on the Cajun prairie, like a first kiss or a first car.

You don’t want to be a guy who never caught a chicken on Mardi Gras.

“Don’t kill the chicken!” Le Capitan calls at each stop along the way, but many do. The young men on the ride are rugged and game-faced, adrenaline and testosterone coursing through their bloodstreams.

“Don’t kill the chicken!” Le Capitan calls out to ears that often don’t hear, nor abide, the wellintentioned but often fruitless appeal for civility.

For eight hours and 14 miles we ride. We stop for hot boudin links at midday, nourishment that will sustain us until we arrive back at the Armory, where massive pots of hot gumbo will be prepared from the bounties of rice, produce and fowl that we’ve begged along the way.

As we ride back into town at the end of the day, there are now thousands of townsfolk lining the streets, cheering us, welcoming us back home, shouting “Hey, Mardi Gras!”

Inevitably, several horses in the pack have no rider upon return.

Impossibly, it would seem, several riders lose their horse somewhere along the trail every year. A pickup truck is dispatched at the end of the day to gather the lost, the fallen and the drunk from the fields and roadside ditches along the route.

After my seventh ride, my partner said to me: “That was fun. But this is no place for a lady.” And she was probably right.

I never rode again.

And I never caught a chicken. n jason raish illustration

LOCAL COLOR / MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS

Gloriosa at the Ball Minding your pinks

BY MODINE GUNCH

I

t ain’t easy being rich.

Take Mardi Gras. Once me and the Gunches stake out a bathroom, our problems are solved. Everything else – costumes, beads, beer – is optional.

But for my rich sister-in-law Gloriosa, it’s a whole other story.

She has Carnival balls to worry about. She wants to join one of them super ladies’ krewes like Muses or Nyx. But her husband’s mother, Ms. Sarcophaga, informed her that the ladies in her family join one krewe only: The Duchesses of DRAB. It don’t parade in the streets, but it is known for the Drooping Rhododendron Annual Ball.

DRAB-ettes don’t believe in vulgar excess. They wear pearls, not rhinestones. They don’t ever put glitter in their cleavage.

The DRAB motto is “Taste and Tradition.” Not tradition like in the men’s old-line krewes where young girls are court maids and flounce around the ballroom with old rich guys wearing tights. The DRAB-ettes will do the flouncing themselves, thank you very much. But otherwise. Tradition.

This year, the theme is “Monet’s Flowers” and

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Ms. Sarcophaga herself is Grand Duchess. Gloriosa will be a maid on the court. Now, Monet was a famous nearsighted artist, so each maid will represent a blurry flower. Gloriosa is the azalea. Ms. Sarcophaga will dress as an entire out-of-focus garden.

When Gloriosa goes to see the DRAB seamstress, Bitsy Butterick, Ms. Bitsy asks what color azalea she wants to be. Gloriosa says “Whatever. Just not pink.” (She hates pink.) Unfortunately, Ms. Bitsy is hard of hearing. She thinks Gloriosa said “hot pink,” which is a surprise, since the DRAB colors are always muted. Given that, plus Gloriosa’s looks (Gloriosa is dropdead gorgeous), Ms. Bitsy decides she can create a glorious masterpiece. For once.

Now, Gloriosa should have shown up for fittings. But she didn’t. So the day before the ball, I get this hysterical call. The dress has been delivered, it’s the opposite of tasteful and muted and the Grand Duchess will kill her.

This pink ain’t just hot, it’s shrieking-on-fire neon. (We find out later that Ms. Bitsy has cataracts, which makes colors look duller. She had to go some before she could find fabric that looked to her like hot pink.)

Normally, we would call my mother-in-law Ms. Larda, who sews for a living. But Ms. Larda is busy. My gentleman friend Lust, who owns the Sloth Lounge, hired her to make a Sloth Lounge slogan for my jazz umbrella. (I carry it when I lead the French Quarter walking tours that he sponsors.)

She is experimenting with special beads that will light up at night under the streetlights.

Then yesterday she took a break for a group outing to the

Gulf Coast casinos. We call her cell phone – screeching – and she says to calm down; just take a couple yards of white nylon net and cover the dress with it. We can use the bolt of net she left on her dining room table. We rush over there.

Too late. My brothers-in-law Lurch and Leech already took the entire bolt to make bead-catching nets. We look all around the house, and finally we find some white net folded up on the end table by the sofa. It should be enough. We notice some beads sewed on it, but that’s OK. We ain’t talented at sewing like Ms. Larda, but we got staples and a glue gun, and we get the dress covered up and toned down.

The next night I’m at the ball, sitting with the peons, while the maids are introduced. Spotlight.

The Magnolia Maid in white. Smile.

Curtsy. Clap, clap. Spotlight. The Lavender Maid in lavender. Smile.

Curtsy. Clap, clap. Spotlight. The Azalea Maid in ... yozwa!

“SLITHER TO THE SLOTH LOUNGE” is written across the skirt in big, huge, glowing letters.

That extra beaded net must have been for my umbrella.

Gloriosa, being gorgeous, is used to gasps, so she just smiles and curtsies. And Ms. Sarcophaga is blind as a bat and don’t wear her spectacles. So she don’t notice.

Everybody else notices. This ain’t just untasteful, it’s commercialization, which is worse.

The DRAB-ettes are going to grab torches and pitchforks and run her out of there, I just know it.

But nothing happens.

It turns out, everybody is afraid of Ms. Sarcophaga. So nobody says nothing.

And Glorisoa still belongs to DRAB. It ain’t easy being rich. n

LORI OSIECKI ILLUSTRATION

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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LOCAL COLOR / JOIE D’EVE

Sorry About That A Comment That Got Away

BY EVE CRAWFORD PEYTON

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here aren’t really that many times in my life that I’d like to go back and slap myself silly – there are times I’d like to do over, sure, but not many that I’d like to do over simply because I was being a jerk. I was never a Mean Girl or anything like that. I pretty much always appreciated my parents. In face-to-face meetings, I’m typically awkward and say either way too much or nothing at all, but I hardly ever cross the line into bitchy.

But there was one day I did step over into bitch territory. I was 24, and I was basically insufferable in that I had, in the span of one year, gotten married, bought a house, earned a master’s degree and been hired at my first real job. Now I’m 35 and have gotten divorced; survived the housing crash; realized my master’s degree is most useful as a wall decoration (although I actually don’t even know where it is, probably in a box somewhere); and look back fondly on my “real job” in which I mostly filed things, typed letters, drank endless cups of coffee, did online crossword puzzles and chatted on AOL Instant Messenger (this was a long time ago) with my friends. Oh, and most important and life-altering: I’ve had kids.

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This was then, though, and I – bless my 24-year-old heart – just didn’t even know what I didn’t know.

I had a coworker who I liked OK; let’s call her Eileen. Eileen had a child. I liked her kid. I happily bought wrapping paper for school fundraisers and listened to and laughed at stories about clever things her kid had said and made appropriately glowing comments when she showed me the latest school pictures. I even rustled up a bunch of multicolored highlighters for her daughter to color with one day when she brought her to work.

I didn’t really think, though, that Eileen’s kid should take up so much of her work hours. I was annoyed that it seemed like she was always leaving early to get her kid for a doctor’s appointment, coming in late because her kid had a conference, missing days because her kid was sick. I didn’t understand why she couldn’t just make her family fit into her non-work hours. Keep in mind that I was spending my work hours as described above, so it’s not like Eileen’s job was falling to me or anything. I had absolutely no reason to be bothered by her frequent absences; I was just irked that it seemed like she got some kind of free pass to miss work merely by virtue of having a kid. None of this, I guess, was really all that bitchy. It was just the way you think when you’re 24 and have no kids of your own yet. Eileen would tell me how tired she was on Monday morning, and I’d say, “I know. My dog woke me up at 6:30 on Saturday wanting to be let out. On a Saturday. I get it.” And I thought I was actually sympathizing; I thought I did get it. I wasn’t bitchy. I was blessedly clueless.

But then one day, she called in because her kid was sick. Again. And I was pissed because it was January, and I was always pissed for the duration of winter generally but also because that day I’d had to scrape

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my windshield and drive to work in the snow and really did not want to be in the office myself and I didn’t understand why she wasn’t going to have to come in, too.

So when she called me and said she wouldn’t be in because Lauren was sick, I said, “Oh, it’s OK; you’re never here anyway. I don’t even really know why you don’t just quit and stay home because, like, you’re paying so much for day care, but she never even goes.” And then I laughed, I guess to soften the meanness of what I’d said, and she went completely silent and then cleared her throat and said, “OK, well, I’ll see you when I get back.” And I said, “I hope Lauren feels better,” and hung up.

It isn’t the worst thing anyone could say, but for a childless woman to say that to a working mom with a sick kid … well, like I said, I wish I could go back and slap myself.

Of course, the joke’s on me anyway because my kids were sick two days last week and another two – possibly three – this week. Also, Ruby had a dentist appointment, and Georgia had a doctor’s appointment, and also I had to run out to the pharmacy to get a prescription filled and to Target to buy ballet shoes and so, oops, sorry, I accidentally took a two-hour lunch but didn’t actually eat anything, so now I’m going to eat some takeout at my desk.

I am sure that from the outside, it looks like I’m missing a lot of work – and work is actual work now, not drinking coffee and looking for a 10-letter word for “hodgepodge.”

From the inside, though, I’m running every minute, feeling bad for not doing enough for my job or my kids, and working harder than I’ve ever worked in my life.

Eileen, if you’re out there, please know that 35-year-old me would like to humbly apologize for 24-year-old me, and that I hope your daughter and mine all grow up in a world where women are nicer to one another. n

Excerpted from Eve Crawford Peyton’s blog, Joie d’Eve, which appears each Friday on MyNewOrleans.com.

jane sanders ILLUSTRATION

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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LOCAL COLOR / IN TUNE

Radiating

The Dirty Dozen Brass Band

A Fast Start

While I’ve never been much of a fan New Years’ traditions or resolutions, for the last few, the year hasn’t begun without at least one night of the Radiators’ reunion at Tipitina’s. This year they will be playing Jan. 14, 15 and 16. These shows are a homecoming for both the band and the fans.

You can’t help feeling like you’re part of a family that encompasses the whole of Tip’s, there is so much of the sound of New Orleans here. Come out and start the year with old friends.

The March Toward Carnival BY mike griffith

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ith Mardi Gras coming so early this year, we’ll barely have time to recover from the New Year’s shows before the Carnival shows are upon us. Just like the year itself, things start a bit slow, but they really pick up toward the end of the month.

On Jan. 8, The Island of Misfit Toys will be playing Sisters in Christ (the record store in Gasa Gasa). The Chicago-based Toys put on a seriously high-energy show that ranges from folk and rock into the realm of stomp and flutter. I am interested to see how they will fit everyone on stage. In a similar vein, Saintseneca will be back in town at Gasa Gasa on the 20th. These folks are among my favorite acts currently on the scene. The band manages to blend a wide range of acoustic Americana instrumentations with modern indie sounds and equipment. There is a constant swing on Saintseneca records between spare low-fi

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sounds and ecstatic bursts of harmony. This show will be spectacular. Last time Saintseneca came through town they played to about 10 people in the Circle Bar; let’s try to drive up the numbers this time.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more drive, check out the post-punk legends Killing Joke at Republic on Jan. 18. The industrial rock pioneers have just put out their 15th studio album, Pylon.

The month ends with a double shot of excellence on Sun., Jan. 31, as if to punctuate the first weekend of parades. First, Lupe Fiasco will be at Republic. Fiasco is touring on this year’s excellent release Tetsuo & Youth. His flow is outrageously good. Get tickets for this one early as it’s bound to sell out. Second, that same night Primus will be opening for Tool at the Smoothie King Center. This will be a huge show. Primus and Tool have a longstanding history

of collaboration. Both of these bands are known for their visually striking live performances. Tool is also in the process of recording a new record; hopefully we’ll get a preview of things to come. n

Note: Dates are subject to change. Playlist of mentioned bands available at: bit.ly/ InTune1-16.

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To contact Mike about music news, upcoming performances and recordings, email Mike@ MyNewOrleans.com or contact him through Twitter @Minima.

Chris Monaghan photograph

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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LOCAL COLOR / READ+SPIN

ARCHITECTURE: Henry Howard: Louisiana’s Architect, by Robert S. Brantley with Victor McGee is a book decades in the making.

Brantley, noted New Orleans architectural photographer, researcher and historian, first met the architect’s grandson Victor McGee in 1978. The two men, along with Brantley’s wife, the late Historic New Orleans Collection photographer Jan White Brantley, embarked upon what wound up being a lifelong project for McGee and Jan Brantley, who both died before the book’s completion. The five-pound tome offers a comprehensive look at Howard’s work and life and features striking color interior and exterior photos, historic images, the architect’s own illustrations and watercolors and historic documents. Howard immigrated to New Orleans from Ireland in 1837. His designs borrowed heavily from Roman and Greek architecture. The prolific architect is known for countless private commissions, including the Belle Grove Plantation, and other notable plantation homes, as well as scores of grand houses in the Garden District and ecclesiastical and civic projects, such as the Pontalba buildings on Jackson Square.

The Historic New Orleans Collection and Princeton Architectural Press published the book in 2015. A companion exhibition, including maps, rare books, manuscripts, historical and contemporary photography, many of the images by Brantley, opened at THOC at the end of 2025 and runs through April.

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ESSAYS: In My Southern Journey: True Stories from the Heart of the South, journalist and Pulitzer prize-winning author Rick Bragg spins tales of the region with heart, soul and a lot of wry humor. From his home state of Alabama to Cajun Country and the Gulf Coast, Bragg covers everything from football fanaticism to his obsession with notebooks. Charming, hilarious and sometimes tear jerking, the essays will especially appeal to Bragg’s fellow Southerners, but also anyone who loves a good story. Over a decade of essays, some never before published, are included in the collection.

Bragg’s work has appeared in Sports Illustrated, Food & Wine, Southern Living and The New York Times. A former newspaper reporter, Bragg covered high school football for the Jacksonville News for decades. He currently is a professor of writing at the University of Alabama. His other books include All Over But the Shoutin’, Ava’s Man and The Prince of Frogtown. Bragg is scheduled to appear at the Tennessee Williams Book festival in March.

by Melanie Warner Spencer Please send submissions for consideration, attention: Melanie Spencer, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005.

myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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LOCAL COLOR / JAZZ LIFE

Allen Toussaint A poet in time

BY JASON BERRY

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llen Toussaint’s death on Nov. 10 was startling. Was he really 77? He looked way younger with that elegant verve and easy wit, a guy as cool as the other side of the pillow.

Behind the polished persona was an anti-celebrity. Before Hurricane Katrina, his skills as a composer and arranger drew a trail of artists – including Paul McCartney and Paul Simon – to record with him in New Orleans. After the hurricane, when he lost his studio, the grand piano at home and most of his belongings, he went to New York City. In playing concerts and relief events he became a performer, a rejuvenated recording artist and fabled native son. He moved back, a prince of the city yet with a reserve, evincing little hunger for the limelight.

Toussaint got his start in the 1950s, playing a piano from his grandmother at the family home on tiny College Circle in Gert

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Town. He was mostly selftaught, absorbing the rhythmand-blues of Fats Domino and Little Richard, learning the licks by ear and lots of practice.

At 22 he was a fixture at Cosimo Matassa’s J&M Studio and for Minit Records.

The family had moved to Earhart Boulevard when Toussaint filled the living room with rehearsal sessions for Irma Thomas, a teenage mom struggling for a break; a tall swaying songster named Benny Spellman; the flamboyant force of nature in Ernie K-Doe; and a muscular stevedore tattooed with a dagger, Aaron Neville.

They were discovering the sounds that made kids across the racial line get up and dance; Toussaint’s lyrics stemmed from a singularly poetic imagination. Two generations of us would dance to Irma, singing: “It’s raining so hard/ Looks like it’s gonna rain all night/ This is the time/ I’d love to be holding you tight/ I guess I’ll have to accept/ The fact that you’re not here/ I wish tonight would hurry up and end, my dear.”

Before the New Orleans Saints existed, Art Neville could steam up a room as a young, mellow crooner, singing Toussaint’s lines: “The touch of your lips/ Next to mine/ Gets me excited/ Makes me feel fine/ The touch of your hand, your sweet hello/ The fire inside you when you’re holding me close/ Your love so warm and tender / The thrill is so divine/ It is all these things/ That make you mine.”

A night with the Rolling Stones rocking the Superdome was great, but I’d trade it in a heartbeat to see Benny Spellman again, singing Toussaint: “Your pretty brown eyes/ Your wavy hair/ I won’t go home no more/ ’Cause you’re not there./ I’m telling you now/

Like I told you before/ I’m so in love with you/ Don’t leave me no more./ Lipstick traces on a cigarette/ Every memory lingers with me yet.”

The two albums he recorded in his twilight years, Bright Mississippi and Allen Toussaint’s Songbook rank with the all-time classics of New Orleans. Bright Mississippi is a collection of jazz standards, hardly his main fare, but hearing Allen do “Saint James Infirmary” made me wish he had recorded many more of the early Louis Armstrong Hot Five and Hot Seven sessions.

Songbook was done live at Joe’s Pub in New York City. In revisiting those songs first recorded

by Thomas and Spellmen and Art Neville, Toussaint’s phrasing is full of surprises. The showstopper is the last cut, a sublime version of “Southern Nights” with a long, sweet monologue of the singer recalling his family trips as a boy to see old folk in the country – a milieu of love evoked with a tenderness that printed words cannot convey.

He did his composing after dinner, typically working until 4 a.m. “The night time is my very best time to work,” he told me in 1996. “Because it’s so quiet. The night air, for one thing – even if you’re inside, the hum of the city is down to a minimum, whereas in daytime you can hear that between B and B-flat hum of the city.”

In love with that line, I repeated it back to him: New Orleans has a B-flat hum.

“Oh, absolutely,” he replied, and said when he drove in from the airport, heading down the Earhart overpass past a transformer the hum of the grid welled up around him. “The city is B flat all the way,” said Toussaint, a current of his own flowing through that B flat hum, now and forever. n jeffrey johnston photograph

LOCAL COLOR / HOME

Owner’s Touch George Benedetto designed many elements of his Metairie showplace

BY BONNIE WARREN PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHERYL GERBER

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n a quiet street in Metairie Club Gardens, George Benedetto created a unique new home that’s a showcase of his many talents. A fine craftsman with a keen eye for architecture, Benedetto designed his home and created many of the unique features in the interior, He also made sure even the smallest detail met his exacting specifications. Benedetto’s designs and workmanship are evident throughout the 5,500-square-foot home. For example, he designed the kitchen’s unique woodwork and did much of the finishing work himself. “I was on the job most of the time while my home was being built,” he says, “to make sure everything was done to my satisfaction.”

Demanding, maybe, but it would be better to call him a visionary who knew exactly what he wanted and made sure he got it. Today the house is a postKatrina mansion on a street of fine homes that wraps part of Metairie Country Club’s Golf Course. Designed in the Mediterranean style, the exterior is influenced with a distinct Tuscan flavor. “I wanted something unique but not trendy,” says Benedetto, an entrepreneur with many business interests. “The blend of colors used for the stucco exterior came about as I experimented with finding the perfect combination to get the look I wanted.”

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Top: Located in Metairie Club Gardens, Benedetto designed the exterior of his home in the Mediterranean style, with a distinct Tuscan flavor, on a lot where a house had been torn down after Hurricane Katrina.

Fortunately, Benedetto could arrange his schedule to spend a great deal of time on the construction site. “One advantage of being on hand over the five years it took to complete the project was being able to make instant changes as the work was being done,” he says. “The ceiling in foyer was my design that was created as we built the space. Artist Tim DiVincenti, my long-time friend, perfectly executed my wishes to make the ceiling something truly unique. The compass rose he included in the design was done at my special request. I trusted Tim completely since he had done work on my boats for years. He is truly a true craftsman.” (Benedetto owns several boats, including the 66-foot grand yacht he keeps in Key West, Florida, that was originally built for the Bacardi Rum Company.)

The ceiling in the foyer is a showstopper and that same room boasts a very unique stairway.

Designed by Benedetto, the handrail on the stairway is of hand carved white oak, while the metal

work, done by his good friend Brett Thibodeaux, is solid commercial bronze with a special high copper content to cast a rose patina. Each of the 200 pieces were shaped and formed on site.

The front bay room is the library, with a grand dining room making a grand statement in the open floor plan. Large mahogany columns, designed by Benedetto and milled at Riverside Lumber, define the space off the foyer. A herringbone-pattern inset of fine mahogany defines the center floor that perfectly accommodates the dining room table and chairs. Lighted cobalt blue windows featured on either side of the columns are framed in old cypress.

The large living room opens onto the deck surrounding the pool, hot tub and rear porches through four sets of mahogany.

“I did most of the finishing work on site on the doors,” he says.

“Some of the large openings between spaces in the house are elliptical arches. The arches are derived from soft ellipse math. They were very difficult to achieve. In fact, the computer couldn’t get it, so we had to lay each one out by hand using string, two nails and two pencils.” Also of special interest are the ceiling fans that are leather belt-driven. “I was able to purchase the basic components and Brett (Thibodeaux) made the towers in his shop.”

Benedetto calls the space at the rear of the house his chart Top: The large living room opens onto the deck surrounding the pool, hot tub and rear porches; the leather belt-driven ceiling fans were fashioned from components obtained by Benedetto and assembled by Brett Thibodeaux. Right: George Benedetto

Facing page: Left: Top and bottom: The handrail on the stairway is hand-carved white oak, while the metalwork is solid commercial bronze with a special high copper content to cast a rose patina; each of the 200 pieces were shaped and formed on site by Brett Thibodeaux. Top, right: Large mahogany columns, designed by Benedetto and milled at Riverside Lumber, define the dining room off the foyer; a herringbone-pattern inset of fine mahogany indicates the center floor that perfectly accommodates the dining room table and chairs and lighted cobalt blue windows framed in old cypress are featured on either side of the columns. Bottom, right: The onyx vanity top in the master bathroom came from Carr Stone; Randy Powell is credited with the design of the ceiling that was done by a team from Honduras and took three months to complete.

Top: The panels for the copper ceiling in the kitchen were made on the construction site; unique cabinets of Birdseye maple, with the fronts of individual solid tambour, were milled on site, and the solid copper and bronze old deck cargo light hangings over the island are from a ship salvage yard in south Florida and restored by Benedetto.

room, because the ceiling background is finished in nautical navigation charts. “I designed the pattern of the mahogany floor to mirror the detail of the ceiling,” he says. The grand chandelier in the room came from Fischer Gambino, owned by Laurie Labruzzo and Patti Fischer. “Laurie and Patti were terrific to work with me on all of the light fixtures for my home,” The drama of the house continues in the kitchen where floors are quarter-sawn white oak, with panels of copper for the ceiling

made on the construction site. Unique cabinets of Birdseye maple, with the fronts all individual solid tambour that was milled on site, add interest to the space. The solid copper and bronze old deck cargo lights hanging over the island are from a ship salvage yard in south Florida. “I enjoyed restoring them; I think they add something special to the room,” he says. The island is made of old teak wood from a factory that had made the decks for World War II aircraft carriers, while the countertop is marble from Carr Stone.

The art deco fireplace in the kitchen was cast from a hand carved mold by Lynn Swartley, a local artist, with Benedetto collaborating. “We worked together on the design for two months,” he says.

The master bedroom wing opens onto a porch overlooking the pool. The floors in the grand master bathroom are travertine, while the vanity tops are onyx from Carr Stone. Randy Powell, another longtime friend, did the design for the ceiling. “He is extremely talented and passionate about his work,” Benedetto says. The ceilings took three month just in the framing. The finish is actual Cementous stucco applied by a team from Honduras.

Benedetto had high praise for the workman who did each job.

“I do need to mention Bruce and Garrett Soileau, my great finish carpenters who did much of the woodwork. Their work is always perfect,” he says.

Upstairs there is an office, an exercise room and two bedrooms and bathrooms.

“My house was a labor of love and it was well worth the time and effort,” he says. “Now it is time to relax and enjoy it.” n myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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“During Carnival season you have a good shot of getting a King Cake braided by a Haydel family member.” – Meredith Timberlake, Director of Brand Development

Haydel’s Bakery’s Cream Cheese

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ven the most ingrained and apparently immovable New Orleans culinary rubrics possess a core integrity that can survive innovation and change. I have enjoyed a mushroom gumbo, for example, as well as vegan mayonnaise on a poor boy and red beans on a Friday. But since first learning the rules of Carnival 16 years ago, I have never – and, Rex willing, will never – eaten a King Cake out of season.

All New Orleanians know that Carnival, and thus King Cake season, begins on Twelfth Night (Jan. 6) and ends when the clock ticks from Fat Tuesday over to Ash Wednesday. Whether they abide is another matter. Plenty of local bakeries will enable an out-of-season King Cake habit. I do abide, out of respect for tradition and insulin levels. I am a sucker for another unofficial King Cake custom: the stickier-sweet the better.

Which adds to the irony that, before a bite of King Cake could pass my lips, I had a mildly emergency dental procedure on the morning of Twelfth Night last year. Leaving her office, I wished my dentist a Happy Carnival.

She replied by asking me about my favorite King Cake. (My dentist asked me about King Cake!) I told her that my tastes run O’Delice; she divulged that she’s partial to Randazzo’s. We agreed on eating them only during Carnival, and not just to avoid cavities.

Compromised tooth notwith-

standing, I reveled in the holiday as usual.

A friend who believes in Carnival more than Christmas left a thickly iced Manny Randazzo King Cake on the front porch while I was out, just because. Another friend stopped by later in the day with an elegant, still-warm cream cheese King Cake from La Boulangerie, where bakers make two styles: traditional New Orleans King Cakes with brioche-like dough and French galettes des rois with puff pastry.

That night, I attended a Twelfth Night party hosted by friends who served rum punch garnished with plastic King Cake babies and welcomed guests to bring King Cakes to share. The galette des rois from Rivista that I pre-cut into triangles never even made it to the King Cake buffet table – revelers snatched pieces as I walked through the party as if I were carrying a tray of hors d’oeuvres.

I must have sampled a dozen King Cakes that night, including a braided, custardfilled, glazed titan of a cake from Meche’s Donut King in Lafayette. (It is worth the drive, and they ship.) One hangdog guest left the party early, claiming King Cake overdose. Another who overindulged publicly broke up with King Cakes on Facebook that night.

Encouraged by this assignment, my own King Cake appetite didn’t abate for the duration of Carnival. It never does. The rest of my family played along: my dad didn’t complain when I asked him to drive the two-hour round-trip through frenzied traffic on Lundi Gras to fetch a last-minute King Cake from Coffee &... in Harvey; I caught my son eating icing shards from the floor at a parade party (and didn’t scold him); and, though the poor kid begged for a Death Star, my husband turned our Radio Flyer wagon into a papier-mâché King Cake float complete with Carnival-colored glitter and a life-size plastic baby.

The following recommendations are the upshot of near-daily King Cake tastings during Carnival 2015. May they help sweeten this year’s holiday season.

Prices reflect the cost of commodities – including gold leaf – at press time.

Sara Roahen is a freelance writer and oral historian. She authored the book Gumbo Tales: Finding My Place at the New Orleans Table and co-edited The Southern Foodways Alliance Community Cookbook.

Haydel’s Bakery’s Cream Cheese Old-Timers (pg. 57) Super moist, paved with a thick coating of white icing and sporting the tie-dyed look of purple, green and gold sugars that have succumbed to humidity, Haydel’s King Cake has always embodied the essence of Carnival’s garish beauty for me. I prefer mine further gilded with cream cheese filling. Other varieties: New Orleans traditional, filled (cherry, apple, lemon, blueberry, Bavarian cream, cream cheese, strawberry cream cheese, German chocolate, praline pecan or chocolate chip brownie) and a variety of themed shapes Shipping: Yes; and Haydel’s ships to military personnel stationed oversees, packing icing and sugar separately to elongate the King Cake’s shelf life Availability: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $14.50-$60 4037 Jefferson Highway , Pop-up locations during Carnival season at Chilly’s Sno-Balls (3940 Veterans Blvd., Metairie), SnoWizard (4001 Magazine St.), and The Ridgeway (2431 Metairie Road, Metairie), (800) 442-1342, HaydelBakery.com

O’Delice French Bakery’s Cream Cheese Vietnamese-Owned Bakery A thick ribbon of reddish, cinnamon-spiced pastry “filling” runs through all of Nancy Nguyen’s fresh, buttery King Cakes, whether traditional or cream cheese. It is a quiet innovation but one that sells – she often runs out by the end of the day. Her pastry itself isn’t terribly sweet, but she piles ample quantities of colored sugars on top. Other varieties: New Orleans traditional Shipping available: No When to buy: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $20-$30 6033 Magazine St., 895-2144, ODeliceNola.com

“There’s no King Cake tradition in Vietnamese culture. I learned to make them while working at a New Orleans hotel.” – Nancy Nguyen, owner and pastry chef

O’Delice French Bakery’s Cream Cheese

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“We wanted to provide a less sweet option for the Vietnamese community to enjoy this New Orleans tradition.”

– Linh Garza, President

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dong phuong's strawberry

Dong Phuong’s Strawberry Vietnamese-Owned Bakery Light, flaky, spinning layers of dough and a crusty exterior recall a croissant, while a slathering of cream cheese icing and colored sugars confirm that Dong Phuong’s horseshoe-shaped creation is indeed a King Cake. I like the version with fresh strawberry slices hidden inside.

Other varieties: New Orleans traditional, cream cheese and possible other fruit fillings Shipping: No Availability: During Carnival season only Price range: One size for $14 14207 Chef Menteur Highway, 254-0296, DPBanhMi.com

Gracious Bakery’s Chocolate Newcomers At Gracious, making King Cake dough is a two-day process; letting the dough rest for a spell fosters a slight tangy quality that marries deliciously with cinnamon and a generous swirl of dark chocolate filling. Ten seconds in the microwave and it’s perfectly molten. Other varieties: Almond; this year the bakers will experiment with a variable “Chef’s Special” Shipping: Yes Availability: During Carnival season only Price range: One size for $20 1000 S. Jefferson Davis Parkway #100, 7220 Earhart Blvd. (quick-service location), 301-3709, GraciousBakery.com

Sucré’s King Cake Newcomers Laminated with butter and further enriched with cream cheese, Sucré’s King Cake has a fat content that benefits from heating. A few seconds in the microwave renders it soft, buttery and deceivingly light. Tariq Hanna and his bakery staff glaze the cakes with just a suggestion of icing and then spray them with subtle, shimmery Carnival colors. Other varieties: None Shipping available: Yes When to buy: During Carnival season only Price range: One size for $20 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311, 3301 Veterans Blvd., 834-2277, 622 Conti St., 267-7098, ShopSucre.com

New Orleans Cake Café’s Apple and Goat Cheese Steve Himelfarb firmly believes that a New Orleans bakery’s calling card is its King Cake.

So when he opened the New Orleans Cake Café on a Faubourg Marigny corner, he thought hard about what his bakery’s signature King Cake should be. Eight years later, the unusual outcome – Danish dough filled with fresh apple and goat cheese and drizzled with colored icings – is a Carnival staple. It is also the bakery’s most popular King Cake variety. Other varieties: Traditional, cream cheese, raspberry cream cheese, pecan and boudin Shipping: No Availability: During Carnival season only Price range: $6.50-$26 2440 Chartres St., 943-0010, NolaCakes.com

Antoine’s Queen Cake

Tartine’s King Cake

Old-Timers According to Greg Antoine’s wife, Kim, growing up with four brothers inspired Antoine to develop his trademarked Queen Cake. A ring of dough embedded with five jewel-like fillings (apple, lemon, pineapple, strawberry and cream cheese), the Queen Cake can meet the cravings of an entire family. Warning: This one almost breaks the sweet meter. Other varieties: New Orleans traditional, kringle (topped with caramel icing and pecans) and filled (apple, cherry, lemon, pineapple, strawberry, Bavarian cream or cream cheese) Shipping: Yes Availability: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $17-$50 (The Queen Cake comes in one size, priced around $42) 1300 Stumpf Blvd., Gretna, 368-6222, 3030 Severn Ave., Metairie, 309-8599, AntoinesFamousCakes.com

Newcomers A native New Orleanian first turned me on to Tartine’s King Cake, calling it “traditional,” by which she meant that the dough is more bread than pastry. But that’s where the subtlety stops. The braided ring of brioche was still warm when I picked it up. Royal icing dripped down its sides; brown sugar and cream cheese filling escaped from pockets where the puffed dough had burst during baking. I didn’t make it home before digging in.

Other varieties: A larger size is available per special order Shipping available: No When to buy: During Carnival season only Price range: One size for $20 7217 Perrier St., 866-4860, TartineNewOrleans.com

Spin-Offs Numerous local products exhibited the King Cake spirit last year without being an actual King Cake. For example, Creole Creamery’s King Cake ice cream, Humble Bagel’s glazedand-sugared bagels, Sucré’s Carnival-colored macaroons, Rivista’s King Cake lattes, SoBou’s King Cake old fashioned cocktail, a few brands of King Cake vodka and a slew of savory King Cakes.

t new orleans cake café's apple and goat cheese

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Willa Jean’s Salted Caramel and Banana

“I decided I would buck tradition and design a King Cake that would be fit for the King of Mardi Gras.” –Lisa White, partner and pastry chef

Hi-Do Bakery’s Cream Cheese

Shipping Do not despair if your favorite King Cake shop won’t ship to your homesick aunt. Most King Cakes fit snugly into a USPS Priority Mail box, and some privately owned mail stores pack them for an extra charge.

Vietnamese-Owned Bakery It took me a few bites to warm to Hi-Do’s eggy, almost savory King Cake dough, the tart quality of its cream cheese filling and its moderately applied icing. But my palate adjusted after a few bites, in time to appreciate Ha Do’s balanced approach to what can be an over-stimulating eating endeavor. Other varieties: New Orleans traditional, filled (almond, apple, blueberry, chocolate, lemon, pineapple, strawberry or Bavarian cream) and unique shapes (crawfish, fleur-de-lis, crab or crown) Shipping: No Availability: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $10-$30 441 Terry Parkway, Terrytown, 366-6555

Willa Jean’s Salted Caramel and Banana (formerly available at Domenica) Pushing the Envelope Lisa White might have moved her base of operations from Domenica to Willa Jean (both are Besh Restaurant Group restaurants), but she can’t shake the weighty cake responsibility she assumed when she began splitting a brioche-dough King Cake horizontally, filling it with salted caramel, sliced bananas, roasted pecans and mascarpone cheese, and then overlaying it with praline glaze and gold leaf. Yes, seriously. Other varieties: None Shipping: No Availability: During Carnival season only Price range: One size for around $55 611 O’Keefe Ave., 509-7334, WillaJean.com

Maurice French Pastries’s Ponchatoula Pushing the Envelope Imagine using a traditional, cinnamon-tinged, frosted-and-sugared King Cake as a base for strawberry shortcake. And when, imagine that, as Jean-Luc Albin does, you not only add whipped cream and fresh strawberries, but also Bavarian cream and sliced almonds.

The Ponchatoula King Cake must be eaten with a fork. It is worth the extra effort.

Other varieties: New Orleans traditional, French galette des rois and specialty filled Shipping: Yes, but not the Ponchatoula or other specialty filled King Cakes Availability: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $15-$99 (The Ponchatoula comes in one size, priced around $38) 3501 Hessmer Ave., Metairie, 885-1526, 4949 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie, 455-0830, MauriceFrenchPastries.com

“Every year there’s something new happening with King Cake, and I wanted to do something different.” – Jean-Luc Albin, owner and pastry chef

maurice french pasteries' Ponchatoula

Rocket Girl’s Organic Vegan and Gluten-Free Cream Cheese Health-Conscious Dianna Egan’s King Cakes are more spice cake than pastry, and she shapes them in oval patties rather than traditional rings. But you won’t catch me complaining. Nor any of the friends and family who passed through my kitchen last Carnival season and devoured this sizable treat more quickly than any other.

Other varieties: Cinnamon and seasonal fruit; this year, Egan will debut a caramel and pink Himalayan sea salt version Shipping: No, but local delivery is negotiable Availability: Egan takes orders year-round Price range: One size for around $25 (646) 342-7461

THE BABY French custom calls for a token to be baked into, or hidden inside, the galette des rois: A bean, a trinket, a charm or a figurine (fève).

These days in New Orleans, the token is most often a plastic baby, and for liability reasons bakers usually include the baby outside the King Cake rather than baked or inserted into it. Local custom dictates that whomever finds the baby in her slice must buy the next King Cake. Some bakeries eschew the plastic baby for a customized token. A tiny green elephant charm accompanied the gateau des rois from Rivista. At Gracious Bakery, a cherry is baked into each one.

Lisa White includes a gold-sprayed fava bean with her caramel creations and at Cochon Butcher they use plastic pigs. Haydel’s Bakery releases a different ceramic figurine every year. Last year it was a member of the 610 Stompers Mardi Gras krewe, a men’s parading club.

Haydel’s 2016 figurine was still top secret at press time.

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rouses king cake

Rouse’s King Cake Rouses bakers produce several hundred thousand King Cakes every Carnival season. With that kind of volume, the regional supermarket chain sets a King Cake standard of sorts with its layered rings of handtwisted dough schmeared with cinnamon. Bakery Director Chaya Conrad is constantly re-working the formula, often focusing on moistness, which I think is Rouses King Cakes’ greatest virtue. No filling necessary. Other varieties: Too many to list, including unusual fillings such as Heavenly Hash and pina colada Shipping: Yes Availability: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $5.50-$20 Numerous locations, Shop.Rouses.com

Fare’s King Cake Health-Conscious Like everything sold at Fare, the King Cakes are anti-inflammatory and Paleo-diet-friendly. They contain no gluten, grains or dairy.

This isn’t exactly a pastry. But before you pshaw, consider that dates, nuts and cinnamon create a King Cake-like atmosphere of taste. And plenty of traditional King Cakes would benefit from Fare’s rich cashew cream icing.

Instead of artificially colored sugars, Fare’s King Cakes sport coconut flakes colored with dried berries (purple), kale juice (green) and turmeric (gold).

Other varieties: None Shipping: No Availability: Year-round by special order; daily during Carnival season Price range: $6.50 and $35 4838 Magazine St., 302-9171, FareFood.com “No one sells King Cakes like we sell King Cakes.” – Chaya Conrad, Bakery Director 60

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Rivista’s Galette des Rois

Rivista’s Galette des Rois

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Newcomers When you call to reserve a Rivista King Cake, the order-taker asks for a pickup time. Play along and your galette des rois will still be oven-warm and crisptopped when you get there. Lisa Barbato and her bakers make their own puff pastry and almond cream filling, and the world is a better place for it. Other varieties: New Orleans traditional, Mexican and Spanish Shipping available: No When to buy: During Carnival season only Price range: $4 and $20 4226 Magazine St., 371-5558

“The French galette is my favorite version to make and eat. It blows me away that you can just put butter, sugar and flour together and make something so beautiful.”

– Lisa Barbato, owner and pastry chef

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r ou

ders' picks a e r

2016

S P O T HE T F O WN TO by ey Photos dl a r B Sara Essex

New Orleans Dining Quick & Easy Favorite Place for King Cakes 1. Randazzo's* 2. Nonna Randazzo’s Bakery tie 3. Haydel’s Bakery tie 3. Sucré tie 3. Zuppardo’s 4. Manny Randazzo King Cakes tie 5. Gambino’s Bakery tie 5. Tastee McKenzie’s tie 5. Rouses * In those cases where voters didn’t differentiate between Manny Randazzo and Nonna Randozzo’s, the vote was simply tallied under the name Randazzo’s.

Favorite Place for Fried Chicken 1. Popeyes 2. Willie Mae’s Scotch House 3. Mr. Ed’s tie 4. Chubbie’s tie 4. Dooky Chase’s Favorite Place for Poor Boys 1. Parkway Bakery & Tavern 2. Parran’s Po-Boys 3. Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar 4. Short Stop Po-Boys 5. Bear’s Poboys at Gennaro’s 6. Crabby Jack’s

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n this, an election year in Louisiana, our readers have been making their feeling known about their picks for the Tops of the Town. There were no mean-spirited commercials funded by Political Action Committees in our voting, no mindless Obama-bashing. Rather, this was just straight forward voting – folks telling us what they think.

A couple of things you should know: H To make the list a choice had to have a significant cluster of votes. Places without enough votes were eliminated. H Categories without enough voters were also removed. H Where there was evidence of ballot box stuffing (and there wasn’t much) the votes were adjusted accordingly. H We know that there are some significant places that didn’t make the list, nevertheless we’re confident that those that are listed are all worthy and are among the tops in their field.

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Favorite Place for Tacos tie 1. The Rum House tie 1. Superior Grill 2. Juan’s Flying Burrito 3. El Gato Negro 4. Taqueria Corona 5. Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria Favorite Place for Sushi 1. Sushi Brothers 2. Sake Café tie 3. Fuji Hana Sushi Bar and Hibachi Steakhouse tie 3. Little Tokyo tie 3. Rock-n-Sake Bar & Sushi 4. Ninja Restaurant and Sushi Bar tie 5. Hana tie 5. Kyoto tie 5. Shogun Favorite Place for Wings 1. Hooters 2. Buffalo Wild Wings 3. Wing Shack Favorite Place for Onion Rings 1. Charlie’s Steak House tie 2. Liuzza’s Restaurant & Bar

tie 2. New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co. tie 2. The Steak Knife Restaurant 3. Ye Olde College Inn Favorite Place for Pizza 1. Reginelli’s Pizzeria 2. Theo’s Neighborhood Pizza 3. Tower of Pizza tie 4. Domenica tie 4. Pizza Delicious tie 5. Ancora tie 5. Midway Pizza tie 5. Slice Pizzeria 6. New York Pizza Favorite Place for Snowballs 1. Hansen’s Sno-Bliz 2. Plum Street Snoballs 3. Sal’s Sno-Balls 4. Casey’s New Orleans Snowballs 5. Lulu’s Snowballs Favorite grocery store or deli 1. Rouses 2. Dorignac’s Food Center 3. Zuppardo’s Family Supermarket tie 4. Langenstein’s tie 4. Stein’s Market & Deli tie 4. Whole Foods Market tie 5. Central Grocery tie 5. The Fresh Market Favorite buffet tie 1. The Court of Two Sisters tie 1. Harrah’s 2. Super China Buffet 3. Ritz-Carlton Christmas Day Feast Favorite Food Truck 1. Crêpes a la Cart 2. Taco Loceaux 3. La Cocinita Cuisine Favorite Place for Cajun 1. Mulate’s 2. K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 3. Copeland’s of New Orleans* 4. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe Favorite place for Creole 1. Commander’s Palace tie 2. Copeland’s of New Orleans* tie 2. Muriel’s Jackson Square tie 3. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe tie 3. Mandina’s Restaurant *Copelands, which specializes in a regional application to local cuisines, was judged by our readers to be both Creole and Cajun.

Favorite Place for Tapas & Favorite Outdoor Dining Avo

Favorite Place for Middle Eastern 1. Byblos Restaurant 2. Shaya 3. Mona's Cafe 4. Lebanon’s Cafe Favorite place for Italian 1. Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 2. Venezia tie 3. Andrea’s Restaurant tie 3. Domenica tie 3. Red Gravy

Favorite Place for Mexican/Southwest, Favorite Place for Tacos & Favorite place for a margarita superior grill

Favorite place for Asian 1. Five Happiness 2. Pho NOLA tie 3. La Thai tie 3. Trey Yuen Cuisine of China tie 4. Café East tie 4. P.F. Chang’s Favorite Place for Indian 1. Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine 2. Nirvana Indian Cuisine Favorite Place for Mexican/Southwest 1. Superior Grill 2. Velvet Cactus 3. El Gato Negro 4. Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria tie 5. Casa Garcia tie 5. Juan’s Flying Burrito tie 5. Santa Fe Restaurant Favorite Place for Tapas 1. Avo 2. Vega Tapas Cafe & Catering 3. Shaya Seafood Favorite Place for Seafood 1. Kenner Seafood 2. Deanie’s Seafood 3. GW Fins 4. The Galley Seafood Restaurant tie 5. Drago’s Seafood Restaurant tie 5. Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar tie 6. Blue Crab Restaurant & Oyster Bar tie 6. New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co. tie 6. R&O’s Restaurant

Favorite New Orleans musician Robin Barnes

Favorite Place for Raw Oysters 1. Drago’s Seafood Restaurant 2. Acme Oyster House 3. Casamento’s 4. Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar tie 5. Kenner Seafood tie 5. Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar 6. Pascal’s Manale

Favorite Food Truck Crêpes a la Cart

Favorite place for boiled crawfish 1. Kenner Seafood 2. My own 3. Deanie’s Seafood 4. The Galley Seafood Restaurant

GREG MILES PHOTO

Tops of the Tops Carnival’s Continuing Captain Ed Muniz Endymion will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year; so, too, will Ed Muniz, the krewe’s founder and only captain to date. Counting organizational time, Muniz’s tenure is probably closer to 52 years, but why complicate it? At 50 years on the job he is, by far, Carnival’s senior captain.

Through those years he has also had other jobs, including serving on the Jefferson Parish Council and as mayor of Kenner.

No mayor commands as much attention as does Muniz when his parade rolls up Canal Street on the Saturday before Mardi Gras. Carnival’s biggest parade rules the city that night and, at 50, it’s just getting started.

Favorite Sports Bar & Favorite Dive Bar Lucy’s

Meat Favorite place for steaks 1. Ruth’s Chris Steak House 2. Crescent City Steaks 3. Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse 4. Charlie’s Steak House

Soup Favorite place for gumbo 1. Commander’s Palace 2. Mr. B’s Bistro 3. Gumbo Shop 4. Mandina’s

Favorite Coffee House for Food 1. Royal Blend Coffee & Tea House 2. Caffe! Caffe!

3. PJ’s Coffee 4. Puccino’s Coffee

Favorite place for burgers 1. The Company Burger 2. Phil’s Grill 3. Port of Call 4. Muriel’s Jackson Square 5. Lee’s Hamburgers 6. Atomic Burger

Favorite Place for Turtle Soup 1. Commander’s Palace 2. Mandina’s Restaurant

Favorite Dessert Menu 1. Commander’s Palace 2. Sucré tie 3. Avo tie 3. Copeland’s of New Orleans tie 3. Haydel’s Bakery

Favorite Place for Hot Dogs 1. Dat Dog

Coffee & Dessert Favorite Coffee House 1. PJ’s Coffee 2. Starbucks 3. CC’s Coffee House tie 4. Coast Roast Coffee tie 4. Royal Blend Coffee & Tea House

Favorite Bakery 1. Haydel’s Bakery 2. Gambino’s Bakery 3. Nonna Randazzo’s Bakery 4. Moonshine Bake Shoppe tie 5. La Boulangerie

tie 5. River Bend Bakery 6. Maurice French Pasteries Favorite ice cream/ gelato shop 1. Angelo Brocato Ice Cream and Pastry 2. Sucré 3. Creole Creamery 4. La Divina Gelateria Ambiance Favorite Outdoor Dining 1. Avo tie 2. Audubon Clubhouse Café tie 2. The Court of Two Sisters tie 2. Velvet Cactus

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Favorite Place for Fine Dining 1. Commander’s Palace 2. Avo tie 3. August tie 3. Galatoire’s Restaurant Favorite place for casual dining 1. Copeland’s of New Orleans 2. Katie’s Restaurant tie 3. Mandina’s Restaurant tie 4. Mr. Ed’s Favorite place for a power lunch 1. Café Adelaide 2. Galatoire’s Restaurant Favorite place for Italian Vincent’s Italian Cuisine

Favorite Neighborhood Restaurant 1. Katie’s Restaurant 2. Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 3. Clancy’s Miscellaneous Favorite French Bread 1. Leidenheimer Baking Company

Favorite local beer Abita Amber

Favorite place for a salad 1. Houston’s Restaurant tie 2. Royal Blend Coffee & Tea House tie 2. Cafe Cafe tie 2. Mandinas Favorite Place for Vegetarian Dishes 1. Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine tie 2. Avo tie 2. Byblos Restaurant Favorite Place for Breakfast/Brunch 1. The Ruby Slipper tie 2. Commander’s Palace tie 2. Russell’s Marina Grill tie 2. Surrey’s Cafe and Juice Bar Favorite place for late-night dining 1. The Camellia Grill 2. Port of Call Personalities & Places Favorite Chef 1. John Besh 2. Nick Lama 3. Paul Prudhomme 4. Tory McPhail tie 5. Emeril Lagasse tie 5. Susan Spicer

Favorite restaurant 1. Commander’s Palace 2. Avo 3. Galatoire’s Favorite restaurant opened in 2015 1. Shaya 2. Avo Favorite Restaurant Worth the Drive 1. Middendorf’s Restaurant 2. La Provence 3. Mosca’s Favorite caterer 1. World Deli Restaurant & Catering 2. Pigéon Caterers Drinks Favorite place for a margarita 1. Superior Grill 2. El Gato Negro 3. Velvet Cactus 4. Casa Garcia Favorite place for a bloody Mary 1. Commander’s Palace 2. Cure Favorite wine list 1. Muriel’s Jackson Square 2. Commander’s Palace 3. Avo 4. Emeril’s Favorite Sports Bar 1. Lucy’s 2. Walk-On’s 3. Gordon Biersch 4. Manning’s Favorite Dive Bar 1. Lucy’s Favorite Hotel Bar 1. Carousel Bar & Lounge – Hotel Monteleone 2. Davenport Lounge – The Ritz-Carlton tie 3. The Sazerac Bar – The Roosevelt New Orleans tie 3. Swizzle Stick Bar – Loews New Orleans Favorite local beer 1. Abita Amber tie 2. Abita Strawberry Harvest tie 2. Dixie tie 2. NOLA Blonde Ale Favorite Happy Hour tie 1. Domenica tie 1. Lucy’s

Favorite Place for Raw Oysters Drago’s Seafood Restaurant

Favorite Craft Cocktail Bar 1. Cure 2. Swizzle Stick Bar 3. Bar Tonique

Tops of the Tops Celebrity Angel Hill Angela Hill has made our Tops lists so many times through the years that she should have her own permanent page. Those who have watched her career path unfold have seen her at first as a consumer reporter, then a very popular news anchor and later a radio talk show host. Having retired from the latter this past year, we still see her doing commercials, but her real cause remains animals. She is a pet’s best friend.

Hill long ago earned ample reason to be snobby; instead she has remained a genuinely nice person.

That perhaps is even more reason why she is still Tops.

People, Places & Events New Orleanian of the Year 1. Allen Toussaint 2. Mike Yenni 3. Mitch Landreiu Favorite politician 1. Mike Yenni 2. Mitch Landrieu 3. Nobody 4. David Vitter Favorite New Orleans musician 1. Robin Barnes tie 2. Allen Toussaint tie 2. Trombone Shorty 3. Kermit Ruffins 4. Harry Connick Jr. 5. Dr. John 6. Irvin Mayfield Favorite Local Band 1. The Wize Guys 2. The Yat Pack

3. Flow Tribe 4. Rebirth Brass Band Favorite Place to Hear Live Music 1. House of Blues 2. Tipitina’s tie 3. Maple Leaf Bar tie 3. Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro tie 4. Chickie Wah Wah tie 4. d.b.a.

5. Rock ’n’ Bowl Favorite Jazz Club 1. House of Blues 2. Davenport Lounge 3. Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro 4. Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse tie 5. Preservation Hall tie 5. The Spotted Cat Music Hall Favorite Live Theater Company 1. Jefferson Performing Arts Society 2. The NOLA Project Favorite Local Actress/Actor/ Local Theater.

1. Spud McConnell 2. Bryan Batt tie 3. Lisa Picone Love

tie 3. Ricky Graham Favorite Saints player 1. Drew Brees 2. Marques Colston 3. Benjamin Watson Favorite Pelicans player 1. Anthony Davis Favorite local TV personality 1. Eric Paulsen 2. Bob Breck tie 3. Margaret Orr tie 3. Sally-Ann Roberts tie 4. Karen Swensen tie 4. Scott Walker Favorite Local Radio Personality 1. Walton and Johnson 2. Spud McConnell * tie 3. Bobby Hebert tie 3. Tommy Tucker * At press time Spud McConnell is currently not on radio – but should be.

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Favorite Local Radio Station 1. WWL AM870/105.3FM 2. WWOZ 90.7 3. Magic 101.9 4. WWNO 89.9 tie 5. BAYOU 95.7 tie 5. Voodoo 104 tie 5. WTIX 94.3 tie 6. WYLD 98.5 tie 6. WNOE 101.1 Favorite Carnival parade 1. Endymion 2. Muses 3. Bacchus tie 4. Orpheus tie 4. Rex tie 4. Thoth tie 4. Zulu 5. Krewe du Vieux tie 6. Nyx tie 6. Tucks

Favorite art gallery Octavia Art Gallery

Favorite elementary school 1. Lusher Charter School 2. Kehoe France tie 3. Audubon Charter School tie 3. Christian Brothers tie 3. Country Day

Favorite yoga/pilates studio Nola Pilates

Favorite Place for Seafood & Favorite place for boiled crawfish Kenner Seafood

2. Doerr Furniture 3. JADE Favorite lawn/ garden supply 1. Perino’s Garden Center 2. The Plant Gallery 3. Urban Roots Favorite Place to Gamble 1. Harrah’s 2. Treasure Chest Casino Favorite place to buy liquor & wine 1. Martin’s Wine Cellar 2. Dorignac’s Food Center 3. Zuppardo’s Family Supermarket tie 4. Elio’s Wine Warehouse tie 4. The Wine Seller 5. Rouses 6. Acquistapace’s Covington Supermarket Favorite bank 1. Whitney Bank 2. Chase Bank tie 3. Capital One Bank tie 3. Regions Bank 4. First NBC Bank tie 5. IberiaBank tie 5. Metairie Bank 6. Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company

Favorite secondary/ high school 1. Lusher Charter School 2. Mount Carmel Academy 3. Jesuit High School 4. De La Salle

Favorite Hotel 1. Hotel Monteleone 2. Windsor Court Hotel 3. The Ritz-Carlton

Favorite museum 1. The National WWII Museum 2. New Orleans Museum of Art 3. Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Favorite Golf Course 1. Audubon Park Golf Course 2. City Park Golf Course 3. English Turn Golf & Country Club

Favorite art gallery 1. Octavia Art Gallery 2. Gallery Osborne 3. M.S. Rau Antiques 4. George Rodrigue Studios

Favorite gym 1. Jewish Community Center 2. Elmwood Fitness Center 3. Anytime Fitness

Favorite Bookstore 1. Barnes & Noble 2. Octavia Books 3. Blue Cypress Books

Favorite yoga/ pilates studio 1. Nola Pilates tie 2. barre3 tie 2. Uncle Joe’s Pilates Studio

Favorite antiques store 1. M.S. Rau Antiques 2. Keil’s Antiques

Favorite day spa 1. Earthsavers tie 2. Belladonna Day Spa tie 2. Woodhouse Day Spa

Favorite furniture store 1. Hurwitz Mintz

Favorite Dry Cleaner 1. One Cleaners

Favorite ice cream/gelato shop Angelo Brocato Ice Cream and Pastry

Tops of the Tops Performance of the Year Irma Thomas Already the moment was important on Oct. 21, 2015, when Irma Thomas performed with Allen Toussaint at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters in City Park.

Just by the combined presence of the “Soul Queen of New Orleans” and the city’s musical genius, the gathering had historic weight. No one knew that it would be Toussaint’s last performance in New Orleans.

Allen Toussaint, who died Nov. 10, 2015, is remembered in several categories on these pages. Irma Thomas remains as a category of her own, singing the songs of the rhythm and blues golden era of the 1960s.

The crowd thrilled as the two sang Irma’s Toussaint-penned classic, “It’s Raining:” “I guess I will have to accept The fact that you are not here.

I wish tonight Would hurry up and end, My dear.”

Never have those lines meant so much.

Favorite Men’s Clothing Store 1. Perlis 2. Jos. A. Bank 3. Reubensteins Favorite Women’s Boutique 1. Chatta Box 2. Trashy Diva Favorite children’s boutique tie 1. Little Miss Muffin Children & Home tie 1. Mignon For Kids

tie 1. Pippen Lane Favorite local shoe store 1. Feet First tie 2. Haase’s tie 2. The Good Feet Store Favorite Local Jeweler 1. Adler’s 2. Aucoin Hart Jewelers 3. M.S. Rau Antiques 4. Mignon Faget

Favorite Place to Buy a Wedding Dress 1. Yvonne LaFleur tie 2. House of Broel tie 2. Town & Country tie 2. Wedding Belles Favorite wedding reception location 1. Pavilion of the Two Sisters – City Park 2. Degas House Favorite Gulf Coast Getaway 1. Beau Rivage Resort & Casino,

Biloxi, Mississippi 2. Destin, Florida 3. Grand Hotel, Point Clear, Alabama tie 4. Gulf Shores, Alabama tie 4. Orange Beach, Alabama tie 5. Pensacola, Florida tie 5. Seaside, Florida Favorite Local Charity 1. Louisiana SPCA 2. Ozanam Inn 3. Second Harvest Food Bank 4. Catholic Charities of New Orleans myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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The Struggle for Education

by Dawn Wilson

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Illustration by Joseph Daniel Fiedler

efore there was Brown, there was Bush, at least in New Orleans.

Both are names of important federal court cases that forced the desegregation of the nation’s public schools in the 1960s, but Bush vs. Orleans Parish School Board is the lawsuit that created pandemonium here, tarnished the city’s reputation and changed its dynamic forever.

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The Bush suit, filed in 1952, created an avenue for black activists to integrate New Orleans schools earlier than many other cities in the South. Filed two years before the U.S. Supreme Court ordered desegregation in Brown vs. The Board of Education, the NAACP-instigated lawsuit aimed at desegregating New Orleans schools was dormant until the Brown decision gave it legs.

A federal judge first ordered New Orleans schools to desegregate in February 1956 – 60 years ago next month. The order came a year after the death of Emmitt Till, a black teenager mur-

dered in Mississippi by two white men who accused him of whistling at a white woman. A few months later the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. led the Montgomery bus boycott and became the leader of the civil rights movement The New Orleans School Board delayed desegregation until 1960, but the four-year gap between the first and final court rulings contained many events that eventually coalesced into a vastly different New Orleans society and political climate.

Before Brown, New Orleans was ruled by Jim Crow laws that made most social interaction between white people and black people illegal. They often lived next door to each other, but they couldn’t eat together, attend school together or worship together. The laws created hostile living conditions for all black families and unpleasant ironies for the black elite.

Sybil Haydel Morial, for example, the daughter of a black physician, remembers well the moments in which her privileged inner-world clashed with external reality. She recounts them in a new memoir entitled Witness to Change. She opens the book with memories of her 1950 debut to society, which included an elaborate gown, white gloves and a perfumed garden. In a recent interview, she recalled having an unpleasant thought: “It struck me we were pretending to be royalty and here we are sitting in the back of the bus.”

By the time of the Brown ruling she had left the city, earned a degree from Boston University, met King and become the first black teacher in Newton, Massachusetts. Living the good life with a sense of equality not possible in a hometown ruled by segregation, she had no plans to return to Louisiana, she says.

The Brown decision changed everything. It also seeded a romance that eventually created a political powerhouse.

While home on holiday soon after the decision, Sybil Haydel met Dutch Morial, the first black to graduate from Louisiana State University’s law school and destined to become the city’s first black mayor. Already trailblazers in their chosen careers in 1954, the Brown decision gave them much to talk about.

“We were on the same page,” Sybil Haydel Morial remembers.

“He was excited that I felt about it the same way he did.”

She wanted to come home “to be part of the solution,” and he wanted her to become his wife. Their desires intermingled in 1955. In ’60, while Dutch Morial was building a reputation in the law firm that filed the Bush case and Sybil Morial was tending to young children, one of whom became the city’s third black mayor, the school board finally complied with the court’s Bush decision and desegregated two New Orleans schools.

The board’s resistance to various rulings by Judge J. Skelly Wright was fueled by an early survey of parents that revealed 82 percent preferred closing schools to a “small amount of integration,” says Politics and Reality in an American City, a 1969 book about New Orleans’ reaction to the Bush decision.

Morton Inger says in his book that the school board’s resistance was a reflection of community reactions to desegregation.

Mayor Chep Morrison stayed out of the controversy entirely to protect his political ambitions, Inger says, and the business elite ignored it as long as possible. Some women’s groups worked to

keep the schools open, including one known as the Girls, but the state, under direction of Gov. Jimmie Davis, did everything in its power to block desegregation.

In November 1960, under pressure from Wright, the governor called a special session of the Legislature and pushed through 17 bills aimed at circumventing the judge’s desegregation order.

They included laws to oust school board members who favored keeping schools open and terminating any teacher agreeing to teach black children. Of the New Orleans’ delegation, Inger says only Rep. Moon Landrieu, then still known as Maurice, voted against all 17. Rep. Salvatore Anzelmo voted against 16.

Landrieu, now 85, shies away from being called a hero, even though at the time he fully expected that his defiance would end his political career. After the city’s blacks finally achieved equality at the ballot box, however, they helped elect him to the New Orleans City Council and the mayor’s office. They also helped elect present Mayor Mitch Landrieu, his son, and former U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu, his daughter. Mitch Landrieu, first elected in 2010, was the first white politician elected mayor since Morial’s historic election in 1978.

During the anti-desegregation special session, Moon Landrieu said in a recent interview that, “the rhetoric got to be very ugly, very crude, racist.” He also remembers two pieces of legislation that were especially easy to oppose, despite the public hostility that engineered threats and cost him many friends.

One called for a one-cent tax to help oppose integration, and one made it a crime for a religious leader to publicly say that segregation was morally wrong.

“I remember speaking against that,” Landrieu said. “To my memory, that was the only victory Sam and I had. It was ridiculous to put a minister in jail for speaking about morality.”

All attempts to stop the desegregation of two schools in the 9th Ward on Nov. 14, 1960 failed. When black girls entered two all-white schools in the 9th Ward, angry mobs formed. Every white parent eventually withdrew their children.

Inger said parents who tried to stay suffered severe losses, and at least one family had to leave town.

Suddenly New Orleans, which previously enjoyed a reputation as racially peaceful, even progressive on race issues, hit the national news. Mothers throwing tomatoes and shouting threats at 6-year-old Ruby Bridges, the first black student to attend an allwhite elementary school in the South, became a common sight for many days. Federal marshals protected her. Noble Prize-winning author John Steinbeck, who witnessed the mob, wrote that he “heard the words, bestial and filthy and degenerate.” Three years later, Look magazine immortalized the embarrassing drama with a Norman Rockwell illustration.

Within a few years, most of New Orleans’ public schools and many of its parochial schools had mostly black student populations. White parents abandoned the schools by moving to the suburbs. Today, even though the city’s urban center is enjoying a renaissance of culture and real estate prices have skyrocketed, the city’s much-improved public schools remain majority black and mostly white private schools thrive.

“It’s not right yet,” Morial notes. “The struggle continues.” n

Next month marks a

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New orleans kingfish promotional section

G

enerous, durable and unflinching in character – the men of New Orleans who fit this archetype are known as Kingfish.

They are the very essence of power and compassion combined with masculinity, and give more to others than to themselves. A Kingfish always shows up – fashionably

late, of course, as he’s on New Orleans time – and when he enters the room, it’s under his command. Socializing is as important as business and often is one and the same. He’s dapper, a masterful storyteller and minds his manners the way his mama taught him. Leadership comes as natural to a Kingfish as breathing. He measures his success by the success of those coming up behind him and lends his strong shoulders for them to stand upon. Whether sipping a sazarac or a beer; conducting a meeting or jumping into a secondline; spending time with his family or serving on the board of a favorite charity, a Kingfish does it all with that special brand of savoir faire perfected in New Orleans. He’s not just a boss, he's a Kingfish.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Roy Martial Carubba, P.E. President, Carubba Engineering “My success in business, and life, is the direct result of an unwavering desire to be a hero to my daughters by continuing to exhibit honesty, integrity, perseverance, superior knowledge of my profession and eternal vigilance to do the right thing by them, myself, our clients and the community.�

Carubba believes what makes a man truly successful in his business is achieving his goals while keeping his life balanced, then giving back to the community that afforded him the opportunity to achieve those goals. He believes that can only be realized if his moral, ethical and legal compass is his family.

Carubba is wearing Canali.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

New Orleans Magazine would like to thank Saks Fifth Avenue for providing the clothing and styling for our 2016 Kingfish and to the Windsor Court Hotel for providing the venue for our photo shoot.

We would also like to thank The New Orleanian On Site Spa Services for pampering our Kingfish.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Left to right: Matthew Burnell is wearing Ermenegildo Zegna; Casey Vosbein is wearing Ermenegildo Zegna; Chef Nathan Richard is wearing Canali; Roy Carubba is wearing Ermenegildo Zegna; Franco Valobra is wearing Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Collection (SFAMC); Dr. Michael Moses is wearing Isaia; Mike Nicoll is wearing Giorgio Armani; Doug Dow is wearing Canali; Robert Evans is wearing Hugo Boss; James Moises is wearing Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Collection (SFAMC); Trey Berning is wearing Giorgio Armani

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Casey Vosbein President of Silver Screen Supply & Rentals “I began Silver Screen Supply and Rentals on the ground floor of the burgeoning Louisiana film industry. As founder and president of now one of the largest motion picture supply companies in the state of Louisiana, I have close to 50 employees who have all helped to make Louisiana the Hollywood of the South.”

With a penchant for entrepreneurial pursuits, Vosbein turned his personal love for film into a satisfying career. It is his goal now to see that Louisiana preserves the industry that has won national recognition and boosted the local economy.

Vosbein is wearing Ermenegildo Zegna.

Greg K. Stock PRESIDENT & Chief Executive Officer, Thibodaux Regional Medical Center “We want to make a significant positive difference in the lives of the people we serve. It is a great privilege for me and the hospital team to help lead one of the most important personal and public health initiatives today: the health and wellness of our communities."

Through an innovative approach and visionary leadership, Stock has transformed Thibodaux Regional Medical Center from a small rural hospital to a nationally recognized regional medical center. By instilling a patient centered focus and a culture of service excellence, patients and their families receive high quality care and are treated with compassion, dignity and respect.

Stock serves on numerous community boards and supports the staff ‘s philanthropic endeavors.

Stock is wearing Giorgio Armani.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Michael A. Nicoll President & Owner of Nicoll’s Limousine Service “What keeps me going every day are the people in this city. New Orleans offers a certain charm that makes people feel at home.

I’ve been in this business 29 years and believe it’s the quality of our customer service that makes us stand out. We offer only one level of service and that’s the finest.”

Nicoll’s Limousine Service gives back to the community through multiple charities such as Make a Wish Foundation and Angel’s Place. Nicoll says, “Putting smiles on these kids' faces is the best part about giving back” Nicoll is wearing Giorgio Armani.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Robert B. Evans, III, JD, MBA President, Evans Law “I listen to my clients’ concerns and judges listen to me. I am a native New Orleanian and hold a Juris Doctor and a Masters in Business Administration from Loyola. I have 20 years of litigation experience and a reputation I am proud of, for providing highly effective personal injury and commercial law representation.”

The American Registry of Executives and Professionals selected Evans as the Top Litigator in the Country for 2016. He will be featured with his own chapter in their publication “Top Lawyers: The Secrets to their Success” to be released in 2016.

Evans is wearing Giorgio Armani.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Matthew Burnell Vice President, Strategic Planning Associates “Each project we work on is as important to me as it is to our clients. Their priorities become my priorities.

Offering such a wide variety of construction related services gives us the advantage of doing things quickly and efficiently so that our clients are always satisfied. Putting personal effort into every project has been our hallmark for a very long time and it translates into excellent results.�

Strategic Planning Associates is a 17-year-old family engineering business that has been recognized by the US Chamber of Commerce as a Blue Ribbon Business, one of only 100 selected nationally, as well as a Small Business Champion for the State of Louisiana.

Burnell is wearing Ralph Lauren

New orleans kingfish promotional section

James Moises, MD Owner/Winemaker/Entrepreneur “I am a native New Orleanian with Mid-City roots who combines wine, food, art and medicine in a unique way. Through Moises Wines and Krewe du Bizou Wines Imports and Distribution, I support many local non-profits, all trying to make the city healthier and more vibrant.”

Moises latest project is “The Cellar on St. Louis,” a new warehouse on the Lafitte Greenway in Mid-City which brings together wine, food and art.

As a wine entrepreneur and Emergency Medicine Physician at East Jefferson General Hospital, Moises’s goal is to promote health for the mind and body through wine and a fun, healthy lifestyle.

Moises is wearing Canali.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Thomas A. Neyhart CEO, PosiGen, Solar & Energy Efficiency “We have approached solar and energy efficiency in a radical new way. We believe that people who have the lowest incomes need the savings the most.

These savings can go towards buying school supplies, children’s clothing and groceries.”

Neyhart believes the benefits of solar & energy efficiency should be for everyone. PosiGen is now the fourth largest residential solar company in America.

It was recognized in Inc. Magazine’s Fastest 5,000 list as the fastest growing company in Louisiana and the 58th fastest growing company in the nation.

Neyhart is wearing Canali.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Doug Dow Owner, California Closets New Orleans “I have a passion for customer service. As an athlete, I was taught to let your actions speak for who you are. That philosophy has served me well, enabling me to always do the right thing in business and in life. Now, I try to teach my team to do the same, by taking care of each customer and making their experience with us an award- winning event.

Dow and his team have been serving Southern Louisiana since 1984, creating beautiful and practical storage systems for homes and businesses.

Dow is wearing Giorgio Armani.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Michael Moses, M.D. Plastic Surgeon Dr. Moses trained at Yale and Harvard. When asked how he ended up in New Orleans, he said, “I’m a local. I was born at Touro and raised Uptown. I love New Orleans; I couldn’t live anywhere else.”

Michael Moses has been a plastic surgeon for 33 years. “I love what I do. If I won the Powerball, I’d still practice plastic surgery. I like getting to know my patients, talking to them, figuring out what they want and helping them get there.” When asked if surgery is stressful, he says “Not at all, I do surgery every day and I get to listen to lots of great music.”

Moses is wearing Canali.

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Robert H. Berning III Founder, Velocity Agency , LLC “At Velocity, we have the ability to create custom software solutions for clients and design campaigns that can be tracked, analyzed and adjusted for the highest efficiency and the highest rate of return on the client’s investment.”

Born from a love of creativity and impression making, Berning’s Velocity Agency is the evolution of a 39 year old company, Robert Berning Productions, a full-service film and video production company that now produces more than just media – Velocity Agency produces results. A New Orleans based Digital Marketing Firm, Velocity specializes in techniques, strategies, and branding initiatives that engage and influence their Client’s (Clients’) customers on all media.

Berning is wearing Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Collection (SFAMC).

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Franco Valobra Valobra Jewelry & Antiques “For me, jewelry is a 100 years old family tradition. Being the fourth generation, I am driven by the constant pursuit of perfection in creating jewels that offer a combination of originality, elegance and style. All our clients also enjoy our superior customer service, which sets the standard for the industry.”

Valobra, situated on Royal Street in the French Quarter, also has locations in Houston, Texas and Lugano in Switzerland. Valobra has been creating spectacular jewelry, designed and manufactured in Italy, since 1905. It also offers estate jewelry and custom design.

A committed philanthropist, Mr. Valobra is involved in numerous charities in New Orleans, Houston and Lugano.

Valobra is wearing Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Collection (SFAMC) .

New orleans kingfish promotional section

Nathan Richard Executive Chef, Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails “As Executive Chef of Kingfish, I believe in giving back to the community we live and work in, day in and day out. At Nicholls State University, I teach young people about sustainability and how to use what we grow to make the world a better place.�

Chef Richard and the Kingfish team support numerous charities including: The Susan G. Komen Foundation, New Orleans Mission, Second Harvest Food Bank, Eat Fit Nola and many more.

Richard is part Mission Chefs, a volunteer fire fighter and works with charitable foundations that support fire fighters.

Richard is wearing Canali.

New Orleans Magazine’s

125 area public and private universities, private elementary and secondary and charter schools Compiled by Kristi Ferrante

* For schools marked with an asterik listing is based on 2014 informtion; for all others information is current to 2015.

COLLEGES

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary Top Executive: Dr. Charles S. Kelley Jr. Address: 3939 Gentilly Blvd.

Telephone: 282-4455/(800) 662-8701 Website: NOBTS.edu Total Enrollment: 3,800 No. of Student Receiving Financial Aid: 1,020 Tuition per Semester: $2,100 Year Founded: 1917 Academic Specialties: Counseling, Pastoral Ministry, Theology, Christian Education, Church Music No. of Full Time Faculty: 63 No. of Part Time Faculty: 13 Accredited By: Association of Theological Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Highest Academic Degree Issued: Doctor of Philosophy

Aid: 2,409 Tuition per Semester: $1,749.48 Year Founded: 1992 Academic Specialties: Culinary Entrepreneurship; Electrical Construction; EMT & Paramedic; Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Administration; Industrial Technology (PTEC), Nursing (LPN), Paralegal Studies; Teaching (Grades 1-5); Solar Construction; Welding; and Louisiana Transfer Degrees (Associate of Arts and Associate of Science) No. of Full Time Faculty: 42 No. of Part Time Faculty: 63 Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Individual programs may also have industry-specific accreditations (i.e., NCCER for Electrical Construction, AWS for Welding) Highest Academic Degree Issued: Associate Degree

Nunez Community College Top Executive: Dr. Thomas Warner Address: 3710 Paris Road, Chalmette Telephone: 278-6476 Fax: 278-6487 Website: Nunez.edu Total Enrollment: 2,618 No. of Student Receiving Financial

Our Lady of Holy Cross College Top Executive: Dr. David M. Landry Address: 4123 Woodland Drive Telephone: 394-7744 Fax: N/A Website: OLHCC.edu Total Enrollment: 1,208

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No. of Student Receiving Financial Aid: N/A Tuition per Semester: $5,155 Year Founded: 1916 Academic Specialties: Nursing, Counseling, Education No. of Full Time Faculty: 52 No. of Part Time Faculty: 102 Accredited By: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN); Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs; Joint Review Committee on Education and Radiologic Technology; International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education; National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education; National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission; and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Highest Academic Degree Issued: Doctorate

Tulane University Top Executive: Michael A. Fitts Address: 6823 St. Charles Ave. Telephone: 865-5210 Fax: N/A Website: Tulane.edu Total Enrollment: 13,449 No. of Student Receiving Financial Aid: 10,087

Tuition per Semester: 22,879 Year Founded: 1834 Academic Specialties: Architecture, Business, Law, Liberal Arts, Social Work, Medicine, Public Health and Tropical Medicine the Sciences and Engineer’s No. of Full Time Faculty: 1,248 No. of Part Time Faculty: 737 Accredited By: The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Highest Academic Degree Issued: Doctorate

University of New Orleans Top Executive Dr. Peter Fos, Address: 2000 Lakeshore Drive Telephone: 280-6000 Fax: N/A Website: UNO.edu Total Enrollment: 8,432 No. of Student Receiving Financial Aid: 6,324 Tuition per Semester: 4,077 Year Founded: 1958 Academic Specialties: Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Administration; Film; Computer Science; Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering; Planning and Urban Studies; Accounting; Counselor Education No. of Full Time Faculty: 281

No. of Part Time Faculty: 108 Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Highest Academic Degree Issued: Doctorate

SECONDARY SCHOOLS Academy of Our Lady Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Sister Michelle Geiger, FMA Address: 5501 Westbank Expressway, Marrero Telephone: 341-6217 Fax: 341-6229 Website: TheAcademyOfOurLady. org Total Enrollment: 555 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 44 *Academy of the Sacred Heart Top Executive: Sr. Melanie A. Guste, RSCJ, Ph.D. Grades Served: Toddler-12 Address: 4521 St. Charles Ave. Telephone: 901-1943 Fax: 891-9939

Website: AshRosary.org Total Enrollment: 740 Year Founded: 1867 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 125

Archbishop Chapelle High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: John A. Serio Address: 8800 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie Telephone: 467-3105 Fax: 466-3191 Website: ArchbishopChapelle.org Total Enrollment: 706 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Private Catholic School Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 35 Archbishop Hannan High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Father Charles Latour, O.P. Address: 71324 Highway 1077, Covington Telephone: (985) 249-6363 Fax: (985) 249-6370 Website: HannanHigh.org Total Enrollment: 585 Year Founded: 1987 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of New Orleans Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 48 Archbishop Rummel High School Top Executive: Mark Milaro Grades Served: 8-12 Address: 1901 Severn Ave., Metairie Telephone: 834-5592 Fax: 832-4016 Website: RummelRaiders.com Total Enrollment: 678 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Brothers of the Christian Schools Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 61 Archbishop Shaw High School Top Executive: Rev. Louis Molinelli, SDB Grades Served: 8-12

Address: 1000 Barataria Blvd., Marrero Telephone: 340-6727 Fax: 347-9883 Website: ArchbishopShaw.org Total Enrollment: 470 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 24:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 34

Bishop McManus Academy Grades Served: PreK2-12 Top Executive: Pastor Keith Barnes Address: 13123 I-10 Service Road Telephone: 246-5121 Fax: 246-5564 Website: BishopMcManus.com Total Enrollment: 265 Year Founded: 1975 Avg. Class Size: 20-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 25 Brother Martin High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Gregory Rando, Address: 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. Telephone: 283-1561 Fax: N/A Website: BrotherMartin.com Total Enrollment: 1,162 Year Founded: 1869 Avg. Class Size: N/A Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 92 Cabrini High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Ardley Hanemann Jr., Address: 1400 Moss St. Telephone: 482-1193 Fax: N/A Website: CabriniHigh.com Total Enrollment: 548 Year Founded: 1959 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 43 De La Salle High School Top Executive: Myles Seghers, Interim President Grades Served: 8-12 Address: 5300 St. Charles Ave. Telephone: 895-5717 Fax: 895-1300 Website: DeLaSalleNola.com

Total Enrollment: 525 Year Founded: 1949 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Private Catholic School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 35

Ecole Classique Grades Served: PreK-12 Top Executive: Sal J. Federico Address: 5236 Glendale St., Metairie Telephone: 887-3507 Fax: 887-8140 Website: EcoleClassique.com Total Enrollment: 150 Year Founded: 1956 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 17 Holy Cross School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Dr. Joseph Murry Address: 5500 Paris Ave. Telephone: 942-3100 Fax: N/A Website: HolyCrossTigers.com Total Enrollment: 760 Year Founded: 1849 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 65 Holy Rosary High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Sister Paulette Tiefenbrunn, S.S.N.D. Address: 2437 Jena St. Telephone: 482-7173 Fax: N/A Website: HolyRosaryNola.org Total Enrollment: 79 Year Founded: 2005 Avg. Class Size: 8-10 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of New Orleans Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 22 International High School of Louisiana Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Sean Wilson Address: 727 Carondelet St. Telephone: 613-5702 Fax: N/A Website: IHSNola.org Total Enrollment: 570 Year Founded: 2009 Avg. Class Size: 20-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform

Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 35

Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 7

Isidore Newman School Grades Served: 6-12 Top Executive: Dale M. Smith Address: 1903 Jefferson Ave. Telephone: 899-5641 Fax: 896-8597 Website: NewmanSchool.org Total Enrollment: 1005 Year Founded: 1903 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 40

Metairie Park Country Day School Grades Served: PreK-12 Top Executive: Carolyn Chandler Address: 300 Park Road, Metairie Telephone: 837-5204 Fax: N/A Website: MPCDS.com Total Enrollment: 730 Year Founded: 1929 Avg. Class Size: N/A Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: Independent School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:2 Number of Full Time Faculty: 174

Jesuit High School of New Orleans Top Executive: Anthony McGinn, S.J. Grades Served: 8-12 Address: 4133 Banks St. Telephone: 486-6631 Fax: 483-3942 Website: JesuitNola.org Total Enrollment: 1,394 Year Founded: 1847 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Society of Jesus (The Jesuits) Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 113

Mount Carmel Academy Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Sister Camille Anne Campbell, O.Carm.

Address: 7027 Milne Blvd.

Telephone: 288-7626 Fax: 288-7629 Website: MCACubs.org Total Enrollment: 1,245 Year Founded: 1833 Avg. Class Size: 12-18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Advanced SACS-CASI, Department of Education Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 133

*Louise S. McGehee School Top Executive: Eileen F. Powers, Headmistress Grades Served: PreK-12 Address: 2343 Prytania St. Telephone: 561-1224 Fax: 525-7910 Website: McGeheeSchool.com Total Enrollment: 130 Year Founded: 1912 Avg. Class Size: 10-12 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 30

Northlake Christian School Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Michele Margavio Address: 70104 Wolverine Drive, Covington Telephone: (985) 635-0400 Fax: N/A Website: NorthlakeChristian.org Total Enrollment: 280 Year Founded: 1978 Avg. Class Size: 15-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 32

*Lutheran High School of Greater New Orleans Top Executive: Carol Christen, Principal Grades Served: 9-12 Address: 3864 17th St., Metairie Telephone: 455-4062 Fax: 455-4453 Website: LutheranHighSchool.net Total Enrollment: 103 Year Founded: 1970 Avg. Class Size: 13 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS)

Pope John Paul II High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Martha M. Mundine Address: 1901 Jaguar Drive, Slidell Telephone: (985) 649-0914 Fax: (985) 649-5494 Website: PJP.org Total Enrollment: 343 Year Founded: 1980 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of New Orleans Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1

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Number of Full Time Faculty: 31

Ridgewood Preparatory School Grades Served: PreK-12 Top Executive: M.J. Montgomery Jr. Address: 201 Pasadena Ave., Metairie Telephone: 835-2545 Fax: 837-1864 Website: RidgewoodPrep.com Total Enrollment: 250 Year Founded: 1948 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: SACS/CASI-LHSAA Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 28 St. Charles Catholic High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Andrew Cupit Address: 100 Dominican Drive, LaPlace Telephone: (985) 652-3809 Fax: N/A Website: StCharlesCatholic.org Total Enrollment: 484 Year Founded: 1952 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of New Orleans Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 37 St. Katharine Drexel Preparatory School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Cheryllyn M. Branche; Jacob Owens Address: 5116 Magazine St. Telephone: 899-6061 Fax: N/A Website: DrexelPrep.com Total Enrollment: 213 Year Founded: 2013 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Xavier University of Louisiana Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 15 St. Martin’s Episcopal School Grades Served: 8 weeks-12 Top Executive: Merry Sorrells Address: 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie Telephone: 736-9917 Fax: 736-8802 Website: StMSaints.com Total Enrollment: 547 Year Founded: 1947 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: PreK-5: Uniform; 6-12: Dress Code Affiliation: Independent Episcopal 90

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School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 87

St. Mary’s Academy Grades Served: 5-12 Top Executive: Sr. Clare of Assisi Pierre, SSF; Sr. Jennie Jones, SSF Address: 6905 Chef Menteur Blvd.

Telephone: 245-0200 Fax: N/A Website: SMANewOrleans.com Total Enrollment: 325 Year Founded: 1867 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 26 St. Mary’s Dominican High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Dr. Cynthia A. Thomas Address: 7701 Walmsley Ave. Telephone: 865-9401 Fax: 866-5958 Website: StMarysDominican.org Total Enrollment: 883 Year Founded: 1860 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 60 St. Paul’s School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Brother Raymond Bulliard, FSC Address: 917 S. Jahncke Ave., Covington Telephone: (985) 892-3200 Fax: (985) 892-4048 Website: StPauls.com Total Enrollment: 850 Year Founded: 1911 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Christian Brothers Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 63 St. Scholastica Academy Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Elizabeth Cerise LaForge, Ph.D. Address: 122 South Massachusetts St., Covington Telephone: (985) 892-2540 Fax: (985) 893-5256 Website: SSAcad.org Total Enrollment: 536 Year Founded: 1903 Avg. Class Size: 19 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic

JANUARY 2016 / myneworleans.com

Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 51

Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 25

Student/Teacher Ratio: Pre-K 8:1; K 12:1; 1-8 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 20

Ursuline Academy High School Grades Served: 8-12 Top Executive: Karen Thomas McNay Address: 2635 State St. Telephone: 861-9150 Fax: 861-9159 Website: UANola.org Total Enrollment: 410 Year Founded: 1727 Avg. Class Size: 11:01 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 36

Cedarwood School Grades Served: Preschool 2-7 Top Executive: Kathryn S. LeBlanc Address: 607 Heavens Drive, Mandeville Telephone: (985) 845-7111 Fax: (985) 845-0669 Website: CedarwoodSchool.com Total Enrollment: 320 Year Founded: 1983 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform (K-7) Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 40

Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orleans Grades Served: 10 months-7 Top Executive: Pauline Dides Address: 821 General Pershing St. Telephone: 896-4500 Fax: 896-9610 Website: EBNola.com Total Enrollment: 236 Year Founded: 1998 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: French Accredited School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 37

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

*Academy of the Sacred Heart Top Executive: Sr. Melanie A. Guste, RSCG, Ph.D. Grades Served: Toddler-12 Address: 4521 St. Charles Ave. Telephone: 269-1213 Fax: 891-9939 Website: AshRosary.org Total Enrollment: 740 Year Founded: 1867 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 125 Arden Cahill Academy Grades Served: Infant Centre: 6 weeks to 3; PreK3-8 Top Executive: Mary Kevin Cahill Address: 3101 Wall Blvd., Gretna Telephone: 458-7965 Fax: N/A Website: ArdenCahillAcademy.com Total Enrollment: 550 Year Founded: 1968 Avg. Class Size: Varies Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Varies by grade level Number of Full Time Faculty: 65 Bishop McManus Academy Grades Served: PreK2-12 Top Executive: Keith L. Barnes Address: 13123 I-10 Service Road Telephone: 246-5121 Fax: 246-5564 Website: BishopMcManus.com Total Enrollment: 265 Year Founded: 1975 Avg. Class Size: 20-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational

Christ the King Parish School Graves Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Michael Giambelluca Address: 2106 Deerfield Road, Terrytown Telephone: 367-3601 Fax: 367-3679 Website: CTKParishSchool.org Total Enrollment: 273 Year Founded: 1963 Avg. Class Size: 19 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 27

Ecole Classique Grades Served: PreK-12 Top Executive: Sal J. Federico Address: 5236 Glendale St., Metairie Telephone: 887-3507/Fax: 8878140 Website: EcoleClassique.com Total Enrollment: 160 Year Founded: 1956 Avg. Class Size: 12 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 20

Christian Brothers School Grades Served: 5-7 Top Executive: Joey M. Scaffidi Address: 8 Friedrichs Ave. Telephone: 486-6770 Fax: 486-1053 Website: cbs-no.org Total Enrollment: 350 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 29 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 21

Faith Lutheran Grades Served: PreK3-8 Top Executive: Diane Oestriecher, Principal Address: 300 Colonial Club Drive, Harahan Telephone: 737-9554 Fax: 737-9599 Website: FaithLutheran-school.com Total Enrollment: 82 Year Founded: 1958 Avg. Class Size: 10 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 (max) Number of Full Time Faculty: 8

Concordia Lutheran School Grades Served: PreK4-8 Top Executive: Jacqueline H. Daniilidis Address: 6700 Westbank Expressway, Marrero Telephone: 347-4155 Fax: 348-9345 Website: CLSMarrero.com Total Enrollment: 162 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: 12-15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: ECLA, Good Shephard & Trinity Lutheran Church Student Mix: Coed

*The Good Shepherd School Top Executive: Br. Larry Huck, S.J./ Emily M. Paul Grades Served: K-6 Address: 353 Baronne St. Telephone: 598-9399 Fax: 598-9346 Website: TheGoodShephardSchool. org Total Enrollment: 96 Year Founded: 2001 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: Jesuit Community Student Mix: Coed

Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 19

Holy Cross School Grades Served: Primary: PreK-4; Middle: 5-7 Top Executive: Teresa Billings Address: Primary: 5601 Elysian Fields Ave.; Middle: 5500 Paris Ave. Telephone: Primary: 942.1852; Middle: 942.3100/Fax: Website: Primary: HCPrimary.com; Middle: HolyCrossTigers.com Total Enrollment: 377 Year Founded: 1849 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 31 Holy Name of Jesus Grades Served: PreK-7 Top Executive: Jessica A. Dwyer, M.Ed., Principal Address: 6325 Cromwell Place Telephone: 861-1466 Fax: 861-1480 Website: HNJSchool.org Total Enrollment: 555 Year Founded: 1891 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Roman Catholic, Arch.

Of N.O.; Jesuit Spirituality Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 41

Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: None Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 0

Isidore Newman School Grades Served: PreK-5th Top Executive: Dale M. Smith Address: 1903 Jefferson Ave. Telephone: 899-5641 Fax: N/A Website: NewmanSchool.org Total Enrollment: 425 Year Founded: 1903 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 46 Jewish Community Day School Grades Served: PreK-5 Top Executive: Sharon Pollin Address: 3747 West Esplanade Ave. North, Metairie Telephone: 887-4091 Fax: 780-6539 Website: JCDSNola.org Total Enrollment: 35 Year Founded: 1996 Avg. Class Size: 8 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Jewish Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 8

Holy Rosary Academy Grades Served: PK-7 Top Executive: Sr. Paulette Tiefenbrunn, S.S.N.D. Address: 2437 Jena St. Telephone: 482-7173 Fax: N/A Website: HolyRosaryNola.org Total Enrollment: 79 Year Founded: 1996 Avg. Class Size: 12 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 14

John Curtis Christian School Grades Served: PreK2-6 Top Executive: J.T. Curtis Jr. Address: 10931 Jefferson Highway Telephone: 737-0208 Fax: 739-2341 Website: JohnCurtis.com Total Enrollment: 350 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Christian Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 25

International School of Louisiana Metairie & Uptown K-8; Westbank K-4 Top Executive: Melanie Tennyson 8101 Simon St., Metairie; 1400 Camp St.; 502 Olivier St. Telephone: Jefferson 934-4875;Uptown 654-1088;Westbank 274-4571 Fax: Jefferson 754-7845; Uptown 654-1086; Westbank 265-9447 Website: isl-edu.org Total Enrollment: 1,404 Year Founded: 2000

Kehoe-France Grades Served: 8 weeks-7 Top Executive: Kyle M. France Address: 720 Elise Ave., Metairie Telephone: 733-0472 Fax: N/A Website: Kehoe-France.com Total Enrollment: 535 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Depends on grade level

Number of Full Time Faculty: 62

Number of Full Time Faculty: 32

Lake Caste Private School – Slidell Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Brian J. Butera Address: 59461 LA Highway 433, Slidell Telephone: (985) 641-3363 Fax: N/A Website: LakeCastleSchool.com Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 1987 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic/Christian Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 32

Metairie Park Country Day School Grades Served: PreK-12 Top Executive: Carolyn Chandler Address: 300 Park Road, Metairie Telephone: 837-5204 Fax: N/A Website: mpcds.com Total Enrollment: 730 Year Founded: 1929 Avg. Class Size: N/A Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: Independent School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:2 Number of Full Time Faculty: 174

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School – Slidell Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Michael Buras Address: 345 Westchester Blvd., Slidell Telephone: (985) 643-3230 Fax: (985) 645-0648 Website: OLLOnline.com Total Enrollment: 370 Year Founded: 1929 Avg. Class Size: 19 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A Number of Full Time Faculty: 26

Milestone Academy Top Executive: N/A Grades Served: K-8 Address: 2012 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson Telephone: 894-0557 Fax: 894-0235 Website: MilestonesAcademy.net Total Enrollment: 348 Year Founded: 2002 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 36

Our Lady of Prompt Succor Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Sharon Coll Address: 2305 Fenelon St., Chalmette Telephone: 271-2953 Fax: 271-1490 Website: OLPSSchool.org Total Enrollment: 365 Year Founded: 1954 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 20

*Louise S. McGehee School Top Executive: Eileen F. Powers Grades Served: PreK-12 Address: 2343 Prytania St. Telephone: 561-1224 Fax: 525-7910 Website: McGeheeSchool.com Total Enrollment: 390 Year Founded: 1912 Avg. Class Size: 10 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 75

Northlake Christian School Grades Served: K-8 Top Executive: Monty Fontenot; Missie Arnold, Lower; Jenni Vega, Middle Address: 70104 Wolverine Drive, Covington Telephone: (985) 635-0400 Fax: 702 Website: NorthlakeChristian.org Total Enrollment: N/A Year Founded: 1978 Avg. Class Size: 15-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 0

Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic School Grades Served: 2 year-7 Top Executive: Frank Smith Address: 316 Lafitte St., Mandeville Telephone: (985) 626-5678 Fax: (985) 626-4337 Website: OurLadyOfTheLakeSchool. org Total Enrollment: 719 Year Founded: 1890 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 49

Mary Queen of Peace Catholic School Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Sybil W. Skansi Address: 1515 W. Causeway Approach, Mandeville Telephone: (985) 674-2466 Fax: (985) 674-1441 Website: mqpcs.org Total Enrollment: 501 Year Founded: 1996 Avg. Class Size: PreK3-1: 20; 2-7: 27 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1

Our Lady of Divine Providence School Top Executive: Elvina DiBartolo Grades Served: Nursery-7 Address: 917 N. Atlanta St., Metairie Telephone: 466-0591 Fax: 466-0671 Website: OLDPSchool.com Total Enrollment: 220 Year Founded: 1967 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 24

Lake Castle Private School – New Orleans Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Jane Butera McGovern Address: 8400 Hayne Blvd.

Telephone: 242-6270 Fax: 241-7844 Website: LakeCastleNewOrleans. com Total Enrollment: 497 Year Founded: 1963 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Private Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 24

Ridgewood Preparatory School Grades Served: PreK-12 Top Executive: M.J. Montgomery Jr. Address: 201 Pasadena Ave., Metairie Telephone: 835-2545 Fax: 837-1864 Website: RidgewoodPrep.com Total Enrollment: 250 Year Founded: 1948 Avg. Class Size: 12 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: SACS/CASI-LHSAA Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 28

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St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Grades Served: 18 months-8 Top Executive: Mason Lecky Address: 8012 Oak St. Telephone: 861-3743 Fax: 861-3973 Website: StAndrewsEpiscopalSchool.org Total Enrollment: 230 Year Founded: 1957 Avg. Class Size: 19 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: ISAS, NAIS, NAES, SAES Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 26 St. Angela Merici Grades: PreK2-7 Top Executive: Paige Coco Bennett Address: 835 Melody Drive, Metairie Telephone: 835-8491 Fax: 835-4463 Website: StAngelaSchool.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 1967 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 40 St. Ann School Grades Served: 2 years-7 Top Executive: Susan Kropog Address: 4921 Meadowdale St., Metairie Telephone: 455-8383 Fax: 455-9572 Website: StAnnSchool.org Total Enrollment: 860 Year Founded: 1975 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 65 *St. Anthony of Padua Top Executive: Sr. Ruth Angelette, O.P., Principal Grades Served: Preschool2-7 Address: 4600 Canal St. Telephone: 488-4426 Fax: 488-5373 Website: StAnthonyOfPadua.net Total Enrollment: 165 Year Founded: 1915 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 17 St. Benilde School Grades Served: Nursery-7 Top Executive: Matt Downey 92

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Address: 1801 Division St., Metairie Telephone: 833-9894 Fax: 834-4380 Website: StBenilde.com Total Enrollment: 310 Year Founded: 1968 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 29

St. Catherine of Siena Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Frances Dee Tarantino Address: 400 Codifer Ave., Metairie Telephone: 831-1166 Fax: 833-8982 Website: SCSGators.org Total Enrollment: 863 Year Founded: 1926 Avg. Class Size: 20-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A Number of Full Time Faculty: 87 St. Christopher School Grades Served: 6 weeks - 7 Top Executive: Ruth Meche Address: 3900 Derbigny St., Metairie Telephone: 837-6871 Fax: 834-0522 Website: StChristopherSchool.org Total Enrollment: 646 Year Founded: 1949 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 51

Website: StCletusColts.com Total Enrollment: 412 Year Founded: 1978 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 36

St. Dominic School Grades Served: PreK4-7 Top Executive: Adrianne M. LeBlanc Address: 6326 Memphis St. Telephone: 482-4123 Fax: N/A Website: StDominicNola.org Total Enrollment: 633 Year Founded: 1924 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Roman Catholic, Arch.

Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 43 St. Edward the Confessor School Grades Served: PreK1-7 Top Executive: Thomas E. Becker Ph.D. Address: 4901 West Metairie Ave., Metairie Telephone: 888-6353 Fax: 456-0960 Website: StEddy.org Total Enrollment: 423 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: PreK1&2:12; PreK3&4:14;K-7:23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: PreK1-8:1; PreK2-12:1; PreK3&4-14:2; K-7:25:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 31

*St. Clement of Rome Top Executive: Roselyn K. Tindall Grades Served: PreK3-7 Address: 3978 West Esplanade Ave., Metairie Telephone: 888-0386 Fax: 885-8273 Website: SCRSchool.org Total Enrollment: 479 Year Founded: 1968 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: SACS, CEC, NCEA, LAP/ NAESP Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 27

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Grades Served: PreK2-7 To Executive: Joan Kathmann Address: 4119 Saint Elizabeth Drive, Kenner Telephone: 468-3524 Fax: 469-6014 Website: SEASSchool.org Total Enrollment: 430 Year Founded: 1984 Avg. Class Size: Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A Number of Full Time Faculty: 0

St. Cletus Catholic School Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Jill Grabert Address: 3610 Claire Ave., Gretna Telephone: 366-3538 Fax: 366-0011

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School Top Executive: Barbara M. Martin Grades Served: PreK2-7 Address: 215 Betz Place, Metairie Telephone: 833-1471

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Fax: 833-1498 Website: StFrancisXavier.com Total Enrollment: 460 Year Founded: 1926 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

St. George’s Episcopal School Grades Served: Preschool-8 Top Executive: Dr. Rob E. Eichberger, Address: 923 Napoleon Ave. Telephone: 891-5509 Fax: N/A Website: StGeorgesEpiscopal.com Total Enrollment: 385 Year Founded: 1969 Avg. Class Size: N/A Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Lower/ Middle: 5:1; Preschool: 4:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 80 St. Joan of Arc Catholic School Grades Served: PreK2-7 Top Executive: Jeffrey M. Montz, Address: 412 Fir St., LaPlace Telephone: (985) 652-631 Fax: N/A Website: SJA-school.com Total Enrollment: 371 Year Founded: 1961 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic, Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 31 St. John Lutheran Grades Served: Preschool-7 Top Executive: Bethany Gonski Address: 3937 Canal St. Telephone: 488-6641 Fax: 482-2101 Website: SJLNo.com Total Enrollment: 135 Year Founded: 1854 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Church Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Early Childhood-7:1; Elementary-15-20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 10 St. Louis King of France Catholic School Grades Served: 6 weeks-7 Top Executive: Pamela Keenan Schott Address: 1600 Lake Ave., Metairie Telephone: 833-8224 Fax: 838-9938

Website: SLKFSchool.com Total Enrollment: 420 Year Founded: 1953 Avg. Class Size: Varies Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Varies Number of Full Time Faculty: 90

St. Martin’s Episcopal School Grades Served: 8 weeks-12 Top Executive: Merry Sorrells Address: 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie Telephone: 736-9917 Fax: 736-8802 Website: StMSaints.com Total Enrollment: 547 Year Founded: 1947 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: PreK-5: Uniform; 6-12: Dress Code Affiliation: Independent Episcopal School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 87 St. Mary Magdalen Catholic School Grades Served: PreK-7 Top Executive: Valerie Rodriquez Address: 6421 West Metairie Ave., Metairie Telephone: 733-1433 Fax: 736-0727 Website: SMMCougars.org Total Enrollment: 252 Year Founded: 1956 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic, Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 19 St. Mary’s Male Academy Grades Served: 4-6 Top Executive: Sr. Clare of Assisi Pierre; Chad Smith, Dean of Male Academy Address: 6905 Chef Menteur Blvd.

Telephone: 243-1888 Fax: 872-9501 Website: SMANewOrleans.com Total Enrollment: 44 Year Founded: 2015 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 3 St. Matthew the Apostle School Grades Served: PreK2-7 Top Executive: Dennis Panepinto Address: 10021 Jefferson Highway, River Ridge

Telephone: 737-4604 Fax: 738-7985 Website: SMASchool.net Total Enrollment: 415 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 19 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic, Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 35

St. Paul’s Episcopal School Grades Served: Toddler-8 Top Executive: Charleen Schwank Address: 6249 Canal Blvd.

Telephone: 488-1319 Fax: 304-8315 Website: StPauls-lakeview.org Total Enrollment: 280 Year Founded: 1961 Avg. Class Size: 14 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 38 St. Peter Catholic School Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Michael Kraus Address: 130 E. Temperance St., Covington Telephone: (985) 892-1831 Fax: N/A Website: StPeterCov.org Total Enrollment: 801 Year Founded: 1878 Avg. Class Size: 28 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A Number of Full Time Faculty: 42 St. Philip Neri Catholic School Grades Served: Nursery-7 Top Executive; Carol Stack, Ph.D. Address: 6600 Kawanee Ave., Metairie Telephone: 887-5600 Fax: N/A Website: StPhilipNeri.org Total Enrollment: 717 Year Founded: 1961 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Varies Number of Full Time Faculty: 73 St. Pius X Catholic School Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive: Pamela Fulham Address: 6600 Spanish Fort Blvd.

Telephone: 282-2811 Fax: 282-3043 Website: StPiusXNola.org Total Enrollment: 493 Year Founded: 1953

Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 40

St. Rita School – Harahan Grades Served: 2 years-7 Top Executive: Rev. John C. Arnone Address: 194 Raven Ave., Harahan Telephone: 737-0744 Fax: 738-2184 Website: StRitaHarahan.com Total Enrollment: 410 Year Founded: 1953 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 31 Stuart Hall School for Boys Grades Served: PreK3-7 Top Executive; Kevin Avin Address: 2032 S. Carrollton Ave. Telephone: 861-1954 Fax: 861-5389 Website: StuartHall.org Total Enrollment: 335 Year Founded: 1984 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: Preschool: 18:2; Lower/Middle: 18:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 45 *Trinity Episcopal School Top Executive: The Rev. Gary Taylor Grades Served: PreK-8 Address: 1315 Jackson Ave. Telephone: 525-8661 Fax: 523-4837 Website: TrinityNola.com Total Enrollment: 384 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 60 Ursuline Academy Elementary School Grades Served: Toddler2-7 Top Executive: Karen Thomas McNay Address: 2635 State St. Telephone: 861-9150 Fax: 861-9159 Website: UANola.org Total Enrollment: 340 Year Founded: 1727 Avg. Class Size: Varies Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1

Number of Full Time Faculty: 43

Waldorf School of New Orleans Grades Served: Nursery-8 Shana Hartmann, Interim Administrator Address: 517 Soraparu St., Suite 101 Telephone: 525-2420 Fax: N/A Website: WaldorfNola.org Total Enrollment: 90 Year Founded: 2000 Avg. Class Size: 13 Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 15

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Arthur Ashe Charter School, a FirstLine School Grades Served: K-8 Top Executive: Jay Altman Address: 1456 Gardena Drive Telephone: 373-6267 Fax: N/A Website: AsheCharterSchool.org Total Enrollment: 726 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: FirstLine Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 85 Benjamin Franklin High School Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Daniel G. Casey, Interim CEO/Principal Address: 2001 Leon C. Simon Drive Telephone: 286-2600 Fax: 286-2642 Website; BFHSLa.org Total Enrollment: 901 Year Founded: 1957 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Casual, Appropriate Attire Affiliation: Accredited by SACS; Affiliation with NOCCA; Type III Public, Charter School/Charted

by Orleans Parish School Board and Governed by: Advocates for Academic Excellence in Education, Inc.; Member of the Greater New Orleans Collaborative of Charter Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 54 Cypress Academy Grades Served: K-2 Top Executive: Bob Berk, Ph.D. Address: 4238 St. Charles Ave. Telephone: 383-3337 Fax: N/A

Website: CypressAcademy.org Total Enrollment: 125 Year Founded: 2015 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: OPSB Charter School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 13

Einstein Charter Middle at Sarah Towles Road Grades Served: 6-8 Top Executive: Shawn Toranto Address: 5316 Michoud Blvd.

Telephone: 503-0470 Fax: N/A Website: EisteinCharter.org Total Enrollment: 375 Year Founded: 2015 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Einstein Charter Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 50 Einstein Charter at Sherwood Forest Grades Served: PK-5 Top Executive: Shawn Toranto Address: 4801 Maid Marion Drive Telephone: 503-0110 Fax: N/A Website: EisteinCharter.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2012 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Einstein Charter Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 50 Einstein Charter School at Village De L’Est Grades Served: PK-5 Top executive: Shawn Toranto Address: 5100 Cannes St. Telephone: 324-7450 Fax: N/A Website: EisteinCharter.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Einstein Charter Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 60 International School of Louisiana Grades Served: Jefferson & Uptown K-8; Westbank K-4 Top Executive: Melanie Tennyson Address: 8101 Simon St., Metairie; 1400 Camp St.; 502 Olivier St. Telephone: Jefferson 934-4875;

Uptown 654-1088; Westbank 274-4571 Fax: Jefferson 754-7845; Uptown 654-1086; Westbank 265-9447 Website: isl-edu.org Total Enrollment: Jefferson 429; Uptown 700; Westbank 275 Year Founded: 2000 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: None Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: Jefferson 41; Uptown 77; Westbank 31

James M. Singleton Charter Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Gregory Phillips Address: 2220 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.

Telephone: 522-8811 Fax: 522-7739 Website: DryadesYmca.com Total Enrollment: 486 Year Founded: 2000 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Dryades YMCA Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 22:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 52 Joseph S. Clark Preparatory High School, a FirstLine School Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Jay Altman Address: 1301 N. Derbigny St. Telephone: 373-6202 Fax: N/A Website: ClarkPrep.org Total Enrollment: 428 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: FirstLine Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 60 Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Dr. Patty Glaser Address: 2504 Maine Ave., Metairie Telephone: 233-4720 Fax: N/A Website: DiscoveryHSF.org Total Enrollment: 810 Year Founded: 2013 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Type 1 Charter School authorized by Jefferson Parish Public Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: PreK-1: 24:2; 2-8: 25:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 76

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KIPP Believe College Prep Grades Served: 5-8 Top Executive: Luke Naegele Address: 1607 S. Carrollton Ave. Telephone: 304-8857 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 40 KIPP Believe Primary Grades Served: K-4 Top Executive: Sara Beth Greenberg Address: 421 Burdette St. Telephone: 266-2050 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 46 KIPP Central City Academy Grades Served: 5-8 Top Executive: Alex Jarrell Address: 2514 Third St. Telephone: 609-2283 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 38 KIPP Central City Primary Grades Served: K-4 Top Executive: Korbin Johnson Address: 2625 Thalia St. Telephone: 373-6290 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 56 KIPP McDonogh 15 Middle Grades Served: 5-8 Top Executives: Deanna Reddick & Tony Cognata 94

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Address: 5500 Piety Drive Telephone: 609-2280 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 41

Address: 721 St. Philip St. Telephone: 566-1706 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 56

KIPP New Orleans Leadership Primary Grades Served: K-4 Top Executive: Colin Smith Address: 2300 St. Claude Ave. Telephone: 322-3924 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 46

KIPP New Orleans Leadership Academy Grades Served: 5-8 Top Executive: Jonny Bartlett Address: 2300 St. Claude Ave. Telephone: 373-6256 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 45

KIPP Renaissance High School Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Joey LaRoche Address: 5316 Michoud Blvd., Floor 2 Telephone: 373-6255 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 48

Lake Forest Elementary School Grades Served: K-8 Top Executive: Mardele S. Early Address: 11110 Lake Forest Blvd.

Telephone: 826-7140 Fax: N/A Website: LakeForestCharter.org Total Enrollment: 613 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Orleans Parish School Board Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 45

KIPP East Community Primary Grades Served: K-1 Top Executive: Jenny Dennis Carey Address: 4500 Mendez St. Telephone: 373-7171 Fax: N/A Website: KippNewOrleans.org Total Enrollment: 200 Year Founded: 2014 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 20 KIPP McDonogh 15 Primary Grades Served: K-4 Top Executive: Mark Burton

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Langston Hughes Academy Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Jay Altman Address: 3519 Trafalgar St. Telephone: 373-6251 Fax: N/A Website: LangstonHughesAcademy. org Total Enrollment: 847 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: FirstLine Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 72 Lusher Charter School Grades Served: K-12 Top Executive: Kathy Riedlinger Address: K-5 7315 Willow St.; 6-12 5624 Freret St.

Telephone: K-5 862-5001; 6-12 304-3961 Fax: K-5 304-3961; 6-12 861-1839 Website: LusherSchool.org Total Enrollment: 1712 Year Founded: 1918 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: Advocates for ArtsBased Education: Orleans Parish School Board charter Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A Number of Full Time Faculty: 129

New Orleans Charter Science and Math High School Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Chana Benenson & Claire Jecklin Address: 5625 Loyola St. Telephone: 324-7061 Fax: 309-4178 Website: NoSciHigh.org Total Enrollment: 430 Year Founded: 1993 Avg. Class Size: 18-22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 60 New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Col. Schlafer, Commandant; Dr. Cecilia Garcia, Principal Address: 425 O’Bannon St. Telephone: 227-3810 Fax: 875-4326 Website: nomma.net Total Enrollment: 645 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: JROTC Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 55 Phillis Wheatley Community School Grades Served: PreK-8 Top Executive: Jay Altman Address: 2300 Dumaine St. Telephone: 373-6205 Fax: 488-4091 Website: WheatleyCommunitySchool.org Total Enrollment: 700 Year Founded: 1954 Avg. Class Size: 28 Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: FirstLine Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 93

Samuel J. Green Charter School Grades Served: K-8 Top Executive: Jay Altman Address: 2319 Valence St. Telephone: 304-3532 Fax: N/A Website: GreenCharterSchool.org Total Enrollment: 526 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: FirstLine Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 71 The NET Charter High School Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Elizabeth Ostberg Address: 1614 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.

Telephone: 267-9060 Fax: 267-9059 Website: TheNetNola.org Total Enrollment: 150 Year Founded: 2012 Avg. Class Size: 8-15 Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 22 Warren Easton Charter High School Grades Served: 9-12 Top Executive: Alexina Medley Address: 3019 Canal St. Telephone: 324-7400 Fax: 324-7946 Website: WarrenEastonCharterHigh.org Total Enrollment: 994 Year Founded: 1845 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: OPSB Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 Number of Full Time Faculty: 55

SPECIAL SCHOOL

*St. Michael Special School Top Executive: Susan Munster M.Ed., Principal Address: 1522 Chippewa St. Telephone: 524-7285 Fax: 524-5883 Website: StMichaelSpecialSchool. com Total Enrollment: 213 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: 13 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. of New Orleans Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 26 n

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Metairie Park Country Day School

Education

W

ith 2015 in the books, it’s amazing how quickly time seems to fly. This year’s second school semester will end in just a few months and for some, decisions need to be made about what follows for next year. Area schools offer a number of educational experiences, some focused on spiritual growth in addition to academics and others more focused on integrating technology or language immersion. Extracurricular activities may be your focus as your child develops skills and interests in sports and arts and fortunately you can find it all across the metro area at various private and public institutions. Peruse the following schools and educational resources and discover the amazing and diverse academic landscape of New Orleans.

Early Education St. Andrew’s Episcopal School is the oldest Episcopal school in New Orleans with 58 years of experience in educating the mind, body and spirit of young children. St. Andrew’s enrolls boys and girls from 18 months through eighth grade, offering more than 10 years of nurturing yet challenging education that focuses on the Decade of Childhood. St. Andrew’s utilizes small classes to promote a challenging learning environment where students interact with teachers and grow spiritually, socially and 96

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intellectually. A strong academic program, enhanced by state-of-the-art technology, includes Spanish, Chinese, music, chapel, fine arts, athletics and library skills.

Student publications, dramatics, interscholastic sports and community service round out St. Andrew’s program.

See the new classroom building and renovated early childhood classrooms at St. Andrew’s Open House on Jan. 14, or call for a personal tour. For further information, please visit the school’s website: StAndrewsEpiscopalSchool.org.

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For a strong primary education combined with the unique qualities of an outdoor country environment, check out Arden Cahill Academy, which is nestled on a 12-acre tract of land along Bayou Fatma in Gretna. Not only does the campus provide state-of-the-art classroom learning facilities, but two vegetable gardens, a horseback riding arena, stables and petting farm help the school provide unique learning experiences outside of the traditional classroom environment.

The school focuses on cultural enrichment as one part of its primary education and tradition of academic excellence. Their 300-seat theater, art studios, music rooms and foreign language programs ensure students’ abilities to excel in the arts, while a football field, competition pool, gymnasium and extra-curricular athletics allow students to excel in physical competition as well. To provide familyfriendly support services, Arden Cahill Academy offers before and after school care and a specialized Infant Center which accepts children as young as six weeks. Additionally, during summer months, they offer Camp Corral, a 10-week summer camp program with academic enrichment classes.

For more information, including tours and admission policies, call 504-392-0902 or visit ArdenCahillAcademy. com. Open House is Jan. 12 at 9 a.m.

The mission of the Stuart Hall School for Boys is to live the words of Catholic educator, Janet Erskine Stuart, R.S.C.J., “Education is formation, not just information.” Faculty and staff are dedicated to working with parents to help each child build a foundation for a life centered on a love for learning, a desire to help others and a commitment to Gospel values. Now in its 32nd year, Stuart Hall School is the only school in the greater New Orleans area to offer a Catholic, independent, all-boy education in a traditional, elementary school configuration (Pre-Kindergarten3seventh).

Faith, honor, leadership and scholarship are the foundations upon which the school builds future community leaders who have a selfless commitment to the service of others. Stuart Hall truly is a school “Where Good Boys Become Great Men.” For more information on Stuart Hall School for Boys or to tour the campus, please call 504-861-5384 or visit StuartHall.org.

Located in Lake Vista, St. Pius X is a co-educational Catholic school for Pre-Kindergarten 3 through 7th grade and offers a comprehensive, challenging curriculum in religion, academics, music, art, technology, language and athletics in a loving, faith-filled environment.

Founded in 1953, St. Pius X Catholic School is

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accredited by AdvancEd Louisiana and was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the United States Department of Education. In 2015, St. Pius X Catholic School received the Outstanding School Board Award from the National Catholic Educational Association.

Visit them online at StPiusXNola.org to see how they encourage students through works, actions and deeds to prepare them for tomorrow’s challenges.

Admission Open House will be on Thurs., Jan. 14, from 6-8 p.m. and on Fri., Jan. 15, from 9-11 a.m. You may call 504-282-2811 to schedule a Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten tour on Tuesday or Thursday or for more information.

St. George’s is a private, co-educational, independent school for students from preschool (ages 1-3) through eighth grade and is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).

Established in 1969, St. George’s holds a unique position in the community based on its concept of “individualized education,” which builds upon the distinct talents and learning styles of each individual student. St. George’s has the lowest student-to-teacher ratio (5:1) of any school in the area. Its small size and

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abundance of enrichment programs enable faculty, students and parents to work together using a proven model of educating each child to his or her fullest potential. Students gain the confidence needed to achieve success in academics, social development and emotional wellbeing.

The historic campus is conveniently located Uptown on Napoleon Avenue between Magazine and Camp streets. Open houses will be held on Jan. 14 and 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Private tours can be arranged by calling 504-891-5509. For more information, visit StGeorgesEpiscopal.com or call 504-891-5509.

Jewish Community Day School (JCDS), an independent school for boys and girls in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 5, is the Jewish day school of Greater New Orleans. Its mission is to instill a strong ethical foundation rooted in Judaism and a love of learning, invigorated by academic excellence. JCDS is grounded in Jewish tradition where it fosters spirituality (emunah), dedication to repair the world (tikkun olam) and a commitment to the entire Jewish people (klal Yisrael).

JCDS is a school where families of all backgrounds are welcomed and children are prepared to be engaged, compassionate leaders of their communities in the

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United States, Israel and the world.

With an average student to teacher ratio of 8:1, JCDS ensures that every child is known, nurtured and challenged to achieve. JCDS works to ensure that students become inquiring, capable youth, teachers are dedicated to best educational practices and families are engaged in their children’s academic achievement and holistic development.

JCDS is located at 3747 W. Esplanade Ave. in the heart of Metairie. Private tours can be arranged anytime by calling Director of Admission Deb Marsh at 504-8874091. For information, visit JCDSNola.org.

Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orléans, founded in 1998, is Louisiana’s only private French school that is accredited by the French government and the State of Louisiana. It has been the mission of Ecole Bilingue to provide a strong and distinctive bilingual education for children in New Orleans by combining the best of French and American academics. Ecole Bilingue follows the curriculum of the French Education Nationale, considered to be one of the most rigorous educational systems in the world. The school also offers a rich English Language Arts and American Studies program.

Classes are offered for preschool (2 years old)

through seventh grade. Class sizes are small and students are given individualized attention for better learning.

Creativity is encouraged in all forms and classes in the arts – theater and music are a part of the well-rounded curricula. Applications for the 2016-’17 school year open on Jan. 4. Ecole Bilingue will be adding an 8th grade with the 2016-’17 school year. For more information on Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orléans, please visit EBNola.com.

To schedule a tour, call 504-899-9796.

Trinity is a co-educational, prekindergarten through eighth grade school. The campus is located in the Garden District and offers a pleasant and stimulating learning environment for students and faculty. Trinity continues in the tradition of its predecessor school, Miss Edith Aiken’s Little School, founded in 1917, and in that of Trinity Episcopal Church, which since its founding in 1847 has maintained a commitment to the educational and civic life of New Orleans.

The school motto articulates their mission of: “Celebrating the Intellect, Nourishing the Spirit, Celebrating Community.” Trinity nurtures a child’s mind, body and spirit through a fun and challenging program that offers the best in the academic disciplines, uses best practices and is taught by a skillful, experienced

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and loving faculty and staff. For more information or to schedule an individual tour, please visit TrinityNola.com or call the Admission Office at 504-525-8661.

Open House for Grades PreKindergarten-eighth will take place on Fri., Jan. 15 at 9 a.m.

Audubon Charter School offers one great, “A” school with two unique programs! Serving Pre-Kindergarten through eighth grade, Audubon is a popular choice for families seeking a public school with a diverse student population and strong academics. Audubon excels in fostering a culturally rich and academically rigorous program that uniquely combines French and Montessori curricula with a comprehensive arts curriculum. The school’s French program is the only public school program in Louisiana that’s accredited by the French government through eighth grade.

Audubon’s Montessori program utilizes specially trained teachers who direct self-motivated learning and exploration based on each child’s individual development.

Audubon offers enrichment programs in Talented in Theater, Visual Arts and Music. Their extracurricular activities include ArtsReach, a nationally ranked Academic Games team and awardwinning debate, chess, Logo League and robotics teams. Audubon’s athletic teams have won numerous Metro League championships.

For more information, visit AudubonCharter.com or contact admissions at 504324-7110 or admissions@ auduboncharter.com.

K-12/Continuing Education Ursuline Academy, founded in 1727, enjoys the distinction of being both the oldest school for girls and the oldest Catholic school in the United States. Ursuline Academy provides a broad, challenging 100

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and contemporary curriculum in a nurturing environment from early childhood (Toddler 2) through a college preparatory secondary program (12th grade). Ursuline fosters spiritual formation, academic excellence and a life-long commitment to Serviam: I will serve.

Elementary School Tours (Toddler-2 through seventh grade) are offered every Tuesday in January at 8:30 a.m.

Register online at UANola.org. Additionally, girls age five and under are invited to attend a Play Date on Feb. 20 from 9-11 a.m. in the Soeur Teresita Rivet, OSU Early Childhood Learning Center. This fun event will feature cooking, art, music, math, science and language arts stations. To sign up, visit UANola.org.

For more information, contact the Office of Admissions at 504-866-5292 or admissions@uanola.org.

Since 1849, Holy Cross School’s mission is to educate the whole man. Fostering intellectual curiosity begins in its primary school by allowing students to make choices and accept responsibility for their work. There is a seamless transition between grades, consistent philosophy throughout the school and a vertically aligned curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through high

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school graduation. A Holy Cross education not only calls for students to take risks and to own the consequences of their actions, but it’s rooted in a family legacy which nurtures trustworthy friends and a lasting bond of brotherhood – one the is uniquely Holy Cross.

For more information about the primary, middle or high school, contact HolyCrossTigers.com or call 504-942-3100.

Founded in 1929, Metairie Park Country Day School believes that today’s world demands more than a traditional education; it demands the values and practices that have made Country Day unique since its inception. An innovative, hands-on approach teaches Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 students how to think creatively and independently as they tackle an expansive, rigorous curriculum. High academic standards and expectations of personal accountability are sustained by a nurturing community, a low student to teacher ratio, robust athletics and outstanding creative arts programs. The Country Day faculty focus on individual achievement through depth of inquiry rather than mere recitation of facts and ensure that every child’s educational experience is exceptional.

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The successes of the school’s graduates in college and beyond are testimony to the curiosity, involvement and creativity engendered by the Country Day philosophy and community.

Visit an Admission Open House or email admissions@ mpcds.com for a private tour, Monday-Friday.

Kindergarten-fifth grade Open House takes place Jan. 14.

Middle and Upper School Open House takes place Jan. 21. Call or email to RSVP: 504-849-3110 or admissions@ mpcds.com. Visit MPCDS.com to learn more.

Louisiana’s highest performing Kindergarten-12th grade public school, Lusher Charter School, a National Blue Ribbon School in partnership with Tulane University, offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary, collegefocused curriculum. Lusher students engage in a comprehensive program enhancing critical, analytical and creative thinking. Serving 1,700 students, Lusher maintains two Uptown campuses, the Lower School on Willow Street and the Middle and High schools on Freret Street.

Arts integration starts in the Lower School; many Lusher students continue artistic pursuits in high school Certificate of Artistry programs. Students may choose an

area of concentration in Humanities/Communications or Math/Science/Engineering. Beginning with introductory Engineering classes in Lower School, STEM options expand to include Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Science and AP courses in all sciences. A Learning Resource Center and state-of-the-art science laboratories support academic excellence. Qualifying juniors and seniors earn college credit at Tulane.

Lusher’s numerous extracurricular offerings include 27 sports teams that operate with the support of Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who provided funding for our sports field, Brees Family Field.

For information, visit LusherSchool.org, or call: 504862-5110 (Lower School), 504-304-3961 (Middle and High schools).

St. Martin’s Episcopal School is a coeducational, independent school that provides students from eight weeks through grade 12 with a superior and challenging college preparatory education focused on the development of the whole person. Students and faculty embrace the school’s motto, “Faith, Scholarship and Service.”

At St. Martin’s, the design thinking process helps

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your favorite subject or possible career! All subjects are enhanced with a global perspective, using your Apple MacBook Air for research, comparing and connecting ideas and developing concepts. Discover your talents through the 62 co-curricular activities that develop them. Learn the joy of giving service to make people’s lives better through every activity you might choose.

Are you looking for a great high school where education is fun and where technology and genuine care drives teaching by great teachers who enjoy you and support you in doing your best? And where you are strengthened through God’s grace as your spirituality deepens? Mount Carmel Academy is the school for you, a five-time designated Catholic School of Excellence and a school nationally recognized for academic excellence.

For information, visit MCACubs.com, email the Office of Admissions, admissions@mcacubs.org, or call 504-288-7626, Ext. 229.

Resources

students develop skills and mindsets such as creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking.

Opening in the fall of 2016, The Gibbs Family Center for Innovation + Design will provide a new facility to enable teachers, students and community members to explore the design thinking mindset and approach education with a 21st century perspective.

St. Martin’s invites you to enjoy a tour of its 18acre campus. An All- School Open House takes place Thurs., Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m.; prospective families may also schedule a private tour. For more information, please call 504-736-9917 or visit St. Martin’s online at STMSaints.com.

High School What is it that makes Mount Carmel Academy the school of choice for so many girls? How many students are in your classes at school? Would you prefer 12 to 16 in a class so the teachers get to know what you need? Thirtyeight elective choices enable you to learn more about

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Do you think your child has exceptional abilities or is “gifted”? Alternately, does he or she struggle to master reading, math or writing? Too distractible to complete tasks or too restless to remain seated?

Struggle to understand emotions? Disinterested in making friends? If so, don’t worry! Many children with these challenges are smart and successful. Early detection is key. Dr. Christiane Creveling-Benefield, Ph.D., Clinical and School Psychologist, has been helping Louisiana’s youth overcome these challenges for over 20 years.

Dr. Creveling conducts psychoeducational assessments tailored to your child’s needs using nationally normed, standardized tests to determine if these symptoms are minor hurdles or indicative of a Specific Learning Disability (SLD), Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Following evaluation, she discusses your child’s unique strengths and weaknesses and provides extensive recommendations to increase success. Recommendations may include academic accommodations, skill remediation, psychotherapy and/ or medication. Reports are College Board compliant and, upon request, can meet requirements for the Louisiana Pupil Appraisal Handbook (Bulletin 1508).

For more information, visit YourPsych360.com or call 504-265-7595. Mention New Orleans Magazine and receive a complimentary phone consultation with Dr. Creveling. •

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RESTAURANT INSIDER

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FOOD

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DINING LISTINGS

Quinn and Mary Rose Lynch at Mondo’s unadvertised pizza bar, where children get to make their own. “I wanted Mondo to be a neighborhood restaurant,” notes chef Susan Spicer, who lives in the area.

“We try to do things that are interesting and based on my experiences with my own step kids.”

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THE MENU / TABLE TALK

Mondo

Parade Rest

Kid-friendly Mardi Gras eats

by JAY FORMAN

M

ardi Gras is all about fun, for singles and for families alike. And while there’s no shortage of places to soak up a raucous good time, there are also plenty of places to take the kids. Visitors to New Orleans should know what locals stress all the time: Mardi Gras, especially along the routes farther Uptown and the extended routes along Magazine Street, is great for kids. And if you happen to have your little ones in tow this Carnival season, know that there are plenty of places to enjoy a good meal and adult bever-

ages. Even better, some of these are helmed by New Orleans’ most acclaimed chefs.

At Susan Spicer’s Lakeview restaurant Mondo, the menu culls flavors from around the world, from Paris, Texas to Paris, France. Global influences have always played a role in Spicer’s creations, but unlike her flagship Bayona, Mondo is low-key and kid-friendly to boot.

“I wanted Mondo to be a neighborhood restaurant,” notes Spicer, who lives in the area.

“And this being Lakeview I knew there would be a lot of kids nearby. We try to do things that

are interesting and based on my experiences with my own step kids. Plus, I wanted to offer something other than chicken nuggets.”

Comfortable booths and a spacious dining room, as well as an accommodating staff, are part of the appeal.

Simple dishes like sautéed shrimp are offered and can also be fried upon request.

Buttered noodles, mac and cheese and quesadillas are other options. Wood-fired pizzas and the Mondo burger are popular crossover items from the adult menu. But the real standout is the pizza bar – basically an unadvertised treat in which your little one can cozy up on a stool at the wood-burning oven station and for $5 get a portion of dough to play with to create his or her own mini-pizza. It then gets fired to order and your kid gets to be both the chef and the customer.

“That pizza thing isn’t on the menu,” Spicer adds. “It is just something that has kind of developed along the way because people like to bring their kids by to look at the oven.” The insider knowledge makes it that much more appealing.

Another popular place to bring the smaller folk is Pizza Domenica on Magazine Street.

It shares DNA with its big brother Domenica down in the CDB, so diners here can

Baby Bites Frankie & Johnny’s 321 Arabella St. 243-1234 FrankieAndJohnnys.net Lunch and dinner daily

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High Hat Café 4500 Freret St. 754-1336 HighHatCafe.com Lunch and dinner daily

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Mondo 900 Harrison Ave. 224-2633 MondoNewOrleans.com Lunch Mondays-Fridays, dinner MondaysSaturdays, brunch Sundays

Pizza Delicious 617 Piety St. 676-8482 PizzaDelicious.com Lunch and dinner Tuesdays-Sundays

Pizza Domenica 4933 Magazine St. 301-4978 PizzaDomenica.com Dinner nightly, lunch Fridays-Sundays

jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH

Pizza and a Park Pizza Delicious serves excellent, New Yorkstyle thin crust pizzas, but some of the hidden treasures are the salads made with greens sourced from local farms and the handful of pasta dishes on the menu. There is patio seating along the side and plenty of room for your little ones to run around in an adjacent open lot. Go early and leave some time to check out the stunning (and often overlooked) Crescent Park just across the train tracks nearby. get a taste of chef Alon Shaya’s chops without having to brave the long dining times, higher prices and un-validated parking of his flagship Italian destination in the Roosevelt Hotel. For adults, signature dishes lifted straight from Domenica, like the Whole Roasted Cauliflower with whipped feta, give them more sophisticated options while the kids typically love the basics, like cheese and pepperoni pizzas. Salads, such as Shaya’s shaved Brussels Sprouts, add to adult appeal. It is a bustling place, and popular, so take advantage of the fact they now accept reservations and call ahead. The best time to go is during their happy hour, 3-6 p.m., when prices for pizza are cut in half and drink specials rotate depending on the day.

Try to get a seat near the back and your kids can watch the crew working the pizza station at a stool by the counter.

The High Hat Café, a Freret Street outpost serving Southern-style food, has quickly become a neighborhood favorite for families, especially during weekends. The tile-and-wood lined space used to be loud

but has since been softened by sound-dampening panels.

Though not an especially large restaurant, they have several big tables that can easily swallow up groups and it kind of has a down-home diner feel, despite the fact it’s full-service.

Owner Chip Apperson usually is out working the floor, and the servers often know their customers by name.

There are plenty of choices here for adults and for kids as well. For the former, consider their burger ,which comes lacquered with molten Pimento cheese spread and surrounded by a tangle of salty, house-cut fries. I am usually not a fan of catfish, but for the basket served here I make an exception: hot and crispy filets curl upward from a basket accompanied by slaw, hush puppies and fries. Check out the chalkboard for the daily specials, which change often and add an element of variety. For kids, they have a pretty typical menu of chicken, catfish and shrimp that will appeal to most. Adult beverages and southern cocktails, and a tasty dessert menu heavy with pies, boozy ice cream and floats, deepen the appeal.

Prices are reasonable and there’s free off-street parking in the lot across the street – a big plus for Freret Street.

Franky & Johnny’s languished for years before getting a top-to-bottom reboot in 2013. Ownership changed hands again in ’14 with Emeril’s alum David McCelvey taking over, but the recipe at this quintessentially New Orleans seafood joint has stayed more or less the same: fried seafood platters, poor boys and plate lunches served in a causal family-friendly environments down at the foot of Arabella Street. Nothing here is fancy, but it’s done well and has a claw machine to boot. Be sure to bring plenty of quarters. n

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THE MENU / RESTAURANT INSIDER

News From the Kitchens Truck Farm, Ruby Slipper and Roux Carré

BY ROBERT PEYTON

Truck Farm Chef Brack May was the first to put fried chicken and waffles on a menu to my knowledge, and that was emblematic of his approach – comfort food in spirit, refined in technique and presentation.

At Truck Farm, May is hitting a middle ground. The first thing you notice is the smoke emanating from a portable “pit” that’s big enough to fit two whole hogs. May’s staff is also using it to smoke house-made sausages and brisket, among other things. The menu is a work in progress, but in addition to the smoked meats, burgers and salads there are daily specials, such as catfish tacos on Tuesdays, spaghetti and meatballs on Wednesdays and fried chicken on Thursdays.

The main dining room is airy and filled with eclectic art, including a circular mural that was taken from the United Fruit building (which is owned by the Coleman family, also owners here). There is a screened patio to the rear that opens onto a courtyard flanked on either side by kitchens with enough space and equipment to rival those of the largest restaurants.

Truck Farm is a bit off the beaten path, at 11760 River Road, St. Rose, but it’s a short, quick trip from New Orleans, and it’s worth the ride.

Open Mondays-Thursdays 11 a.m.-7 p.m., until 8 p.m. on Fridays and for brunch on Saturdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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Ruby Slipper

Roux Carré

Jennifer and Erich Weisshaupt opened the first Ruby Slipper a couple of years after Hurricane Katrina, and it became a hit in its Mid-City neighborhood almost immediately.

The Weisshaupts now operate five Ruby Slippers, but they only own one of the properties.

When they realized recently that the lease on their original location would be ending in a couple of years, they decided to start planning on a more permanent home.

They told me that they never considered leaving Mid-City, so when the property at 315 S. Broad St. became available they took a look. It wasn’t much to look at from the outside, but the former Carpenter’s Union Hall is as solid as they come on the inside and it came with a huge, L-shaped lot that opens on both S. Broad and Banks streets.

The couple has big plans for the increased space. For one thing, Jennifer says, they can now consolidate their offices, storage space and commissary kitchen activities. For another, they’re planning on expanding the seating available by building a large deck at the rear of the structure, which will still have ample room for parking in the grassy, fenced lot. Eventually, they hope to open an outdoor food court.

If you can’t wait to sample the Ruby Slipper menu, you have a lot of options – visit TheRubySlipperCafe.net for a list of locations and hours.

In the last few years, the movement to “incubate” small businesses has exploded, and hasn’t left the restaurant industry behind.

Roux Carré is one example of the trend; described by the folks behind it (The Good Work Network) as an “accelerator for emerging food-preneurs,” the facility provides space for walk-up service, business training and other behind-the-scenes assistance to folks wanting to get a start in the industry.

The brightly colored building is focused inward on a covered patio filled with metal tables and chairs. At the periphery, five vendors offer their wares from trailer-sized structures.

The current lineup of vendors is as eclectic as what’s available at the Fairgrounds during Jazz Fest. Miriam Rodriguez, a.k.a. “the Pupusa Lady,” has her eponymous Honduran stuffed tortillas for sale, as well as ceviche, fried chicken and beans and rice; Splendid Pig offers barbecued pork, corn soup, salad and crab cakes; Johnny’s Jamaican Grill includes jerked chicken, shrimp or chicken curry and plaintains; Estralita’s Carry Out serves New Orleans classics such as seafood gumbo, red beans and rice and sweet potato pie; and finally, the Youth Empowerment Project makes snowballs, juices and teas.

Roux Carré is located at 2000 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. The food court is open WednesdaysSaturdays 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and on Sundays 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

SARA ESSEX BRADLEY photographs

A STUNNING COLLECTION OF 50 TRADITIONAL (AND SOME NON-TRADITIONAL) LOUISIANA RECIPES. AN ABSOLUTE MUST HAVE FOR YOUR KITCHEN, OR THE PERFECT GIFT FOR A LOUISIANA FOOD LOVER. NOW IN ITS SECOND PRINTING!

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$16.95 TO ORDER VISIT LOUISIANACOOKBOOK.COM

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THE MENU / FOOD

Oysters Easy Shell raising recipes

by Dale Curry

EUGENIA UHL PHOTOGRAPH

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Oyster-SpanichArtichoke Casserole 2 dozen oysters with liquor 3 Tablespoons butter 1 small onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 pounds fresh spinach or 1 8-ounce package frozen leaf spinach, thawed and drained 1 large can quartered artichokes, drained 4 ounces cream cheese ¼ cup oyster liquor Salt, pepper and Creole seasoning to taste 1 Tablespoon lemon juice 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 Tablespoon butter, cubed in ¼-inch cubes Drain oysters, saving liquor, and check for shells. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Butter an 8-by-8-inch baking dish.

Melt butter in large skillet.

Over medium heat sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes. Add spinach and artichokes and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stir in cream cheese until it melts. Add seasonings, lemon juice, oyster liquor and oysters, and simmer, stirring, until oysters curl. Spoon mixture into baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and then Parmesan. Dot with butter.

Bake until bubbly and beginning to brown on top, about 25 minutes. If not lightly brown, place under broiler. Serves 4

M

ost of the time, we eat our oysters raw, fried or in gumbo. There is nothing wrong with that, but imaginative chefs assembled in Gulf Shores a couple of months ago got me going in new directions. Why not?

It is easy to buy oysters already shucked and whip up dishes in minutes.

One of the chefs at the Oyster Cook-off was our own Alon Shaya, this 2015 winner of the James Beard Award for Best Chef South and our Chef of the Year 2013 and ’15.

Now what was a masterful chef from Israel doing at The Hangout in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where the annual event was held? He covers a lot of territory. In fact, he spent one year in Italy visiting all of its regions, studying their cuisine before returning to his now-home New Orleans to open Dominica with chef John Besh. Since, he has opened Pizza Dominica and Shaya, the city’s first Israeli restaurant.

“I’m just an Israeli guy making Louisiana oyster stew,” he told the Alabama audience. In fact, he added pillow-soft gnocchi to a creamy base and drizzled it over oysters on the half shell. Asked what his favorite oysters are, he

said, “I think I like Gulf oysters the best.”

Shaya didn’t compete in the cook-off but served as one of numerous celebrity chefs.

The big winner in competition was Ron Stone, executive chef of Wolf Bay Lodge’s two locations in Orange Beach and Foley, Alabama. His Creole Cajun Kebab placed a grilled oyster, grilled shrimp, fried oyster, fried crawfish and piece of tasso over an oyster on the half shell, all topped with a three-cheese Mornay sauce.

Stone says Gulf oysters are the best tasting in the country.

“You can do anything with them,” he said.

He should know. He served more than 1,200 of them in one afternoon.

There was little chefs didn’t do with an oyster on the half shell. One covered them with gumbo; another topped them with caviar. All were on the half shell, requiring the purchase of sacks of oysters. For the home cook, buying freshly shucked oysters by the dozen, quart or gallon from fresh seafood markets is the easy way to go. January is a peak month for oysters from a colder Gulf. The following are easy entrées for using them.

Oysters Fettuccine

Scalloped Oysters

3 Tablespoons butter

4 pieces bacon

3 Tablespoons flour 3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups breadcrumbs made from stale French bread

4 green onions, chopped

2 Tablespoons butter

½ cup oyster liquor

1 bunch green onions, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 stalk celery, chopped

1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 Tablespoons dry sherry

1 Tablespoon Creole seasoning

¼ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated

Additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed

1 Tablespoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

3 Tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley

½ cup heavy cream

1 pound fettuccine

¼ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Drain and check oysters to discard any shell.

Reserve oyster liquor. Heat a large pot of salted water for cooking fettuccine.

Melt butter in a large pot. Add flour and stir to make a blonde roux. Add green onions and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in oyster liquor and heavy cream. Add Worcestershire and seasonings, holding back on salt until oysters are added. Add oysters and cook until they curl. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan.

When melted, add parsley. Cover to keep warm.

Boil fettuccine until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and add fettuccine to pot with oysters. Toss and taste to adjust seasonings.

Serve with extra Parmesan if desired. Serves 4 to 6

Drain oysters, reserving liquid, and check for shell.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-by-7-inch or 8-by8-inch baking dish.

Fry bacon in a large skillet until crispy and place on paper towels. Crumble bacon and discard grease.

Spread breadcrumbs on baking sheet and toast under a hot broiler until brown. This only takes a few seconds, and breadcrumbs should be stirred at least once.

Melt butter in same skillet and sauté green onions, celery and garlic. Add ½-cup oyster liquor, sherry, nutmeg, thyme and pepper and simmer for 3 minutes. Add oysters and cream and simmer over low heat until oysters curl.

Remove from heat and stir in breadcrumbs and parsley.

If mixture is dry, add more oyster liquor until slightly juicy.

Add salt to taste. Place in baking dish and top with bacon.

Bake in oven until bubbly, about 15 minutes. Serves 4 to 6

4 dozen oysters

2 dozen oysters

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THE MENU / LAST CALL

Clean Slate

Raspberry Resolutions BY tim mcnally

I

t is a wonderful thing, the New Year’s acknowledgement; a clean Slate and all that.

Every one of us old enough to read the calendar can begin again.

Anew. Whatever was the problem, the challenge – the unresolved issue, the unmet need from just a few days ago – has been washed away. We have all rounded the curve into 2016. We have all passed “Go!,” though we didn’t all collect $200, nor did we issue a hearty “checkmate” and most certainly we won’t be noting “King Me!” Yet, it all feels new. Victorious. And we make resolutions with a firm commitment to implement, most of which were also noted in the previous years with the same sense of purpose. No matter. It is time to do it again.

This month’s recipe, submitted by one of New Orleans’ most talented and creative bartenders, Chris Hannah at French 75 in Arnaud’s restaurant, demonstrates tasting new flavors brought together in a new way. The recipe incorporates products not often recognized by the casual drinker (Pineau des Charentes), products new to the market (Peychaud’s Aperitivo) and some things familiar (Champagne, raspberries, etc.).

Best of success to your resolutions and best wishes for a great outcome. n

Raspberry Beret 1 1/2 ounces Pineau des Charentes (Ferrand) 1/2 ounce Peychaud’s Aperitivo 2 fresh Raspberries 1 bar spoon Agave Nectar 2 1/2 ounces Champagne Brut Fresh Raspberry and a rosemary sprig for garnish Place raspberries into a mixing glass and muddle.

Add Pineau des Charentes, agave nectar, Peychaud’s Aperitivo and shake with ice. Double strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top with Champagne and garnish with raspberries and rosemary.

Created by Bartender Chris Hannah at French 75 in Arnaud’s

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sara essex bradley PHOTOGRAPH

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THE MENU / DINING GUIDE H= New Orleans Magazine award winner / $ = Average entrée price. $ = $5-10 / $$ = $11-15 / $$$ = $16-20 / $$$$ = $21-25 / $$$$$ = $25 and up.

Bywater

Manning’s 519 Fulton St., 593-8118. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Born of a partnership between New Orleans’ First Family of Football and Harrah’s Casino, Manning’s offers sports bar fans a step up in terms of comfort and quality. With a menu that draws on both New Orleans and the Deep South, traditional dishes get punched up with inspired but accessible twists in surroundings accented by both memorabilia and local art. $$$

Elizabeth’s 601 Gallier St., 944-9272, ElizabethsRestaurantNola.com. B, L MonFri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sat-Sun. This eclectic local restaurant draws rave reviews for its praline bacon and distinctive Southerninspired brunch specials. $$$

Pete’s Pub Intercontinental Hotel, 444 St. Charles Ave., 585-5401, IcNewOrleans. com/dining/petes_pub. D Mon-Fri. Casual fare and adult beverages are served in this pub on the ground floor. $$

American Zea’s Rotisserie and Grill Multiple Locations, ZeaRestaurants.com. L, D daily.

Drawing from a wide range of worldly influences, this popular restaurant serves a variety of grilled items as well as appetizers, salads, side dishes, seafood, pasta and other entrées. Also offers catering services. $$$

H Maurepas 3200 Burgundy St., 2670072, MaurepasFoods.com. D Thu-Tue, Br Sat-Sun. Pioneering farm-to-table restaurant with an ingredient-driven menu that changes daily. Clever cocktails a plus as well. $$ Satsuma Café 3218 Dauphine St., 3045962, SatsumaCafe.com. B, L daily (until 5 p.m.). Offers healthy, inspired breakfast and lunch fare, along with freshly squeezed juices. $

carrollton Bourré 1510 S. Carrollton Ave., 5104040. L, D daily. “Elevated” street food along with quality daiquiris and reconsidered wings are the draw at this newcomer from the team behind Boucherie. $$

CITY PARK Café NOMA 1 Collins Diboll Circle, NO Museum of Art, City Park, 482-1264, CafeNoma.com. L, (snacks) Tue-Sun. Sleek bar and café in the ground floor of museum offers a thoughtful array of snacks, sandwiches and small plates that are sure to enchant, with a kids’ menu to boot. $$

CBD/Warehouse District The Grill Room Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 522-1992, GrillRoomNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun. Featuring modern American cuisine with a distinctive New Orleans flair, the adjacent Polo Club Lounge offers live music nightly.

Jazz Brunch on Sunday. $$$$$

Q&C Hotel/Bar 344 Camp St., (866) 247-7936, QandC.com. B, D daily. Newly renovated boutique hotel offering a small plates menu with tempting choices such as a Short Rib Poor Boy and Lobster Mac and Cheese to complement their sophisticated craft cocktails. $$

H Root 200 Julia St., 252-9480, RootNola. com. L Mon-Fri, D daily. Chef Philip Lopez opened Root in November 2011 and has garnered a loyal following for his modernist, eclectic cuisine. Try the country fried chicken wings and the Cohiba-smoked scallops crusted with chorizo. $$$$ H Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas St., 299-9777, RestaurantAugust.com. L Fri, D daily. James Beard Award-winning chef John Besh’s menu is based on classical techniques of Louisiana cuisine and produce with a splash of European flavor set in an historic carriage warehouse. $$$$$ Tivoli & Lee 2 Lee Circle, 962-0909, TivoliAndLee.com. B, L, D daily, Br SatSun. Progressive Southern cuisine is the focus. Rabbit sliders, poke salad and pickled shrimp redefine locally sourced ingredients, and craft cocktail and bourbon menus round out the appeal. Craft cocktail bar Bellocq serves specialty and locally influenced libations. $$$ Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar 1009 Poydras St., 309-6530, Walk-Ons.com. L, D, daily.

Burger, sandwiches, wraps and more

made distinctive with a Louisiana twist are served at this sports bar near the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. $$ Warehouse Grille, 869 Magazine St., 322-2188, WarehouseGrille.com. L, D daily, Br Fri-Sun. Creative fare served in an art-filled environment. Try the duck crêpes or the lamb spring rolls. $$ Wolfe’s in the Warehouse 859 Convention Center Blvd., 613-2882. B, L, D daily.

Chef Tom Wolfe brings his refined cuisine to the booming Fulton Street corridor.

His Smoked Kobe Short Ribs are a good choice. $$$

Downtown The Grill 540 Chartres St., 522-1800. B, L, D daily. A diner with local character straffed by local characters. $

Faubourg Marigny Langlois 1710 Pauger St., 934-1010, LangloisNola.com. L Fri-Sat, D Wed-Sun. *Reservations only Supper club and boutique cooking school in the Marigny serves up culturally informed, farmto-table fare with the added bonus of instruction. Dishes include Spiced Quail and Lemongrass Meatballs with Smoked broth. Open kitchen and convivial atmosphere add up to a good time. $$$ The Marigny Brasserie 640 Frenchmen St., 945-4472, MarignyBrasserie.com. L, D daily. Chic neighborhood bistro with traditional dishes like the Wedge of Lettuce salad and innovative cocktails such as the cucumber Cosmo. $$$ Snug Harbor 626 Frenchman St., 949-0696, SnugJazz.com. D daily. This jazz club serves cocktails and a dining menu loaded with steaks, seafood and meaty burgers served with loaded baked potatoes. $$$$

French Quarter Angeline 1032 Chartres St., 308-3106, AngelineNola.com. B Mon-Fri, Brunch Sat & Sun, D nightly. Modern southern with a fine dining focus is the hallmark of this bistro tucked away in a quiet end of the French Quarter. Southern Fried Quail and Braised Lamb Necks with ricotta agnolotti represent the style. $$$

Continental Provisions 110 N Peters St., Stall 23, 407-3437. Open daily. Artisan purveyors including Bellegarde Bakery and Cleaver & Company team up to reclaim a foothold for quality food in the tourist Ground Zero of the French Market.

Sandwiches, breads, cheeses and more. $$ Hard Rock Café 125 Bourbon St., 5295617, HardRock.com. L, D daily. Local outpost of this global brand serves burgers, café fare and drinks in their rock memorabilia-themed environs. $$ The Pelican Club 312 Exchange Place, 523-1504, PelicanClub.com. D daily.

Serves an eclectic mix of hip food, from the seafood “martini” to clay-pot barbecued shrimp and a trio of duck. Three dining rooms available. $$$$$ Rib Room Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, 621 St. Louis St., 529-7046, RibRoomNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Old World elegance and high ceilings, house classic cocktails and Anthony Spizale’s broad menu of prime rib, stunning seafood and on weekends a champagne brunch. $$$

GARDEN DISTRICT Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland’s, 2001 St. Charles Ave., 593-9955, CopelandsCheesecakeBistro.com. L, D daily. Shiny, contemporary bistro serves Cajun-fusion fare along with its signature decadent desserts. Good lunch value to boot. $$ District Donuts Sliders Brew, 2209 Magazine Street, 570-6945, DonutsAndSliders. com. B, L, D daily. Creative sliders (hello, pork belly) and super-creative donuts (think root beer float) are the hallmarks of this next-generation café. $

Metairie café B 2700 Metairie Road, 934-4700, cafeB.com. D daily, L Mon-Sat. Br Sun. Ralph Brennan offers New American bistro fare with a Louisiana twist at this family-friendly neighborhood spot. $$$ Caffe! Caffe! 3547 N. Hullen St., 2679190. B, L Mon-Sat. & 4301 Clearview Parkway, 885-4845. B, L daily; D Mon-Sat. CaffeCaffe.com Healthy, refreshing meal

Annunciation Serves New Winter Warmers Annunciation Restaurant, 1016 Annunciation St., 568-0245, AnnunciationRestaurant.com Annunciation Restaurant, an upscale bistro in the Warehouse and Arts District, has a heart-warming new winter menu. Chef Glenn Buras showcases Louisiana satsumas from Schwarz Organic Farms in Braithwaite, Louisiana in a citrus gastrique: a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar and sugar. It accompanies fresh Gulf fish.

There are also briny oysters fried, topped with melted brie and served with spinach.

They will also offer a roasted butternut squash mélange accompanies a rich duck confit and a seasonal sweetbread preparation features sweet potatoes and wilted spinach in a Steen’s cane syrup and ginger beer demi-glace. – Mirella Cameran.

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cheryl gerber photograph

options combine with gourmet coffee and espresso drinks to create a tasteful retreat for Metairie diners at a reasonable price. Try the egg white spinach wrap. $ Heritage Grill 111 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 934-4900, HeritageGrillMetairie. com. L Mon-Fri. This lunch-only destination caters to the office crowd and offers a freshly squeezed juice menu to go along with its regular menu and express two-course lunch. $$ Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave., 896-7300, MartinWine.com. Wine by the glass or bottle to go with daily lunch specials, towering burgers, hearty soups and salads and giant, deli-style sandwiches. $ Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, VegaTapasCafe.com. D MonSat. Innovative establishment offers fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetarian dishes in a chic environment. Daily chef specials showcase unique ingredients and make this place a popular destination for dates as well as groups of friends. $$

Mid-City Parkway Bakery and Tavern 538 Hagan Ave., 482-3047, ParkwayPoorBoys.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Featured on national TV and having served poor boys to presidents, it stakes a claim to some of the best sandwiches in town. Their french fry version with gravy and cheese is a classic at

a great price. $

NORTHSHORE Dakota 629 N. Highway 190, (985) 892-3712, TheDakotaRestaurant.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. A sophisticated dining experience with generous portions. $$$$$

Riverbend Carrollton Market 8132 Hampson St., 252-9928, CarrolltonMarket.com. D TueSat. Modern Southern cuisine manages to be both fun and refined at this tasteful boîte. $$$

Uptown Audubon Clubhouse 6500 Magazine St., 212-5282, AudubonInstitute.org. B, L Tue-Sat, Br Sun. A kid-friendly menu with local tweaks and a casually upscale sandwich and salad menu. $$ Camellia Grill 626 S. Carrollton Ave., 309-2679. B, L, D daily. A venerable diner whose essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned. Credit cards are now accepted. $ GG’s Dine-O-Rama 3100 Magazine St., 373-6579, GGsNewOrleans.com. B Sat, L, Tue-Sun, D Tue-Fri, Br Sun. Upscalecasual restaurant serves a variety of specialty sandwiches, salads and wraps, like the Chicago-style hot dog and the St. Paddy’s Day Massacre, chef Gotter’s take on the Rueben. $$

Martin Wine Cellar 3827 Baronne St., 899-7411, MartinWine.com. Wine by the glass or bottle with cheeses and snacks to-go. $

winners. Grab a local Abita beer to wash it all down. Also a great location to watch the game. $

Slim Goodies 3322 Magazine St., 891 EGGS (3447), SlimGoodiesDiner.com. B, L daily. This diner offers an exhaustive menu heavily influenced by local cuisine.

Try the Creole Slammer, a breakfast platter rounded out by crawfish étouffée.

The laid-back vibe is best enjoyed on the patio out back. $

891-9822, Upperline.com. D Wed-Sun. Consummate hostess JoAnn Clevenger and talented chef Dave Bridges make for a winning combination at this nationally heralded favorite. The oft-copied fried green tomatoes with shrimp remoulade originated here. $$$$

Stein’s Market and Deli 2207 Magazine St., 527-0771, SteinsDeli.net. B, L, D TueSun. New York City meets New Orleans.

The Reuben and Rachel sandwiches are the real deal and the half-sours and pickled tomatoes complete the deli experience. $ Surrey’s Café and Juice Bar 1418 Magazine St., 524-3828; 4807 Magazine St., 895-5757, SurreysCafeAndJuiceBar. com. B, L daily. Laid-back café focuses on breakfast and brunch dishes to accompany freshly squeezed juice offerings.

Health-food lovers will like it here, along with fans of favorites such as peanut butter and banana pancakes. $$ Tracey’s Irish Restaurant & Bar 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, TraceysNola. com. L, D daily. A neighborhood bar with one of the best messy roast beef poor boys in town. The gumbo, cheeseburger poor boy and other sandwiches are also

H Upperline 1413 Upperline St.,

H Wayfare 4510 Freret St., 309-0069, WayfareNola.com. L, D daily. Creative sandwiches and southern-inspired small plates. $$ Ye Olde College Inn 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-3683, CollegeInn1933.com. D Tue-Sat. Serves up classic fare, albeit with a few upscale dishes peppering the menu. $$$

Asian Fusion/Pan Asian Little Tokyo Multiple locations, LittleTokyoNola.com. L, D daily. Multiple locations of this popular Japanese sushi and hibachi chain make sure that there’s always a specialty roll within easy reach. $$

Bywater Red’s Chinese 3048 St. Claude Ave., 304-6030, RedsChinese.com. D Wed-Mon. Assertive, in-your-face Chinese fare by chef Tobias Womack, an alum of Danny Bowien’s Mission Chinese. The Kung Pao Pastrami and Delta Broccoli are good

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DINING GUIDE options. $$

CBD/Warehouse District Horinoya 920 Poydras St., 561-8914. L, D daily. Excellent Japanese dining. The chu-toro is delicious and the selection of authentic Japanese appetizers is the best. $$$ Rock-N-Sake 823 Fulton St., 581-7253, RockNSake.com. L Fri, D Tue-Sun, late night. Fresh sushi and contemporary takes on Japanese favorites in an upbeat, casual setting. $$$

Faubourg Marigny Bao and Noodle 2700 Charters St., 272-0004, BaoAndNoodle.com. L, D daily. Housemade noodles and a more authentic take on Chinese fare sets this neighborhood startup apart. Try the soup dumplings if available $$

French Quarter V Sushi 821 Iberville St., 609-2291, VSushiMartini.com. D daily, late-night.

Creative rolls and a huge list of fusion dishes keep party-lovers going late into the night at this combination sushi and martini bar. $$$

Garden District Hoshun Restaurant 1601 St. Charles Ave., 302-9716, HoshunRestaurant.com.

L, D daily. Offers a wide variety of Asian cuisines, primarily dishes culled from China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia.

Five-pepper calamari is a tasty way to begin the meal, and their creative sushi rolls are good. Private dining rooms available. $$

H Tan Dinh 1705 Lafayette St., 3618008. B, L, D daily. Roasted quail and the beef pho rule at this Vietnamese outpost. $$

Kenner Little Chinatown 3800 Williams Blvd., 305-0580, LittleChinatown.net. L, D daily.

One of the city’s best Chinese restaurants is secreted away on William’s Boulevard in Kenner. Try the roast duck or roast pork, either one is terrific, as well as their short menu of authentic dishes that (for the most part) avoid Americanized Chinese fare. $$

Lakeview Lakeview Pearl 6300 Canal St., 3095711, LakeviewPearl.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A long list of specialty rolls rounds out the offerings of this Asian-Fusion restaurant. $$

Metairie CoNola Grill & Sushi 619 Pink St., 8370055, CoNolaGrillSushi.com. L, D TueSun. Eclectic cafe with DNA from both Sun Ray Grill and Aloha Sushi Bar puts out southern-inspired fare backed by an Americanized sushi menu, a kids menu and more. Along with a Sunday brunch, there’s something for everyone at this independent restaurant. $$$

H Royal China 600 Veterans Blvd., 831-9633. L daily, D Tue-Sun. Popular and family-friendly Chinese restaurant is

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one of the few places around that serves dim sum. $$

MARRERO Daiwa, 5033 Lapalco Blvd., 875-4203, DaiwaSushi.com. L, D daily. Japanese destination on the Westbank serves an impressive and far-ranging array of creative fusion fare. $$$

Mid-City H Café Minh 4139 Canal St., 482-6266, CafeMinh.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Chef Minh Bui and Cynthia Vutran bring a fusion touch to Vietnamese cuisine with French accents and a contemporary flair. $$ Five Happiness 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935, FiveHappiness.com. L, D daily.

This longtime Chinese favorite offers up an extensive menu including its beloved mu shu pork and house-baked duck. $$

H MoPho 514 City Park Ave., 482-6845, MoPhoMidCity.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Vietnamese cuisine meets southern Louisiana in this upscale casual hybrid by chef Michael Gulotta. Mix-and-match pho and an interesting poor boy menu rounds out the appeal. $$$

Riverbend H Ba Chi Canteen 7900 Maple St., 3735628. L, D Mon-Sat. The kitchen plays fast and loose with Vietnamese fare at this eclectic outpost on Maple Street. Try the caramelized pork “Baco”. $

H Chill Out Café 729 Burdette St., 8729628. B, L daily, D Mon-Sat. Thai food and breakfast favorites like waffles and pancakes can both be had at this affordable college-friendly hangout. $

Uptown Chiba 8312 Oak St., 826-9119, Chiba-Nola.com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Contemporary restaurant features fresh, exotic fish from all over the world and fusion fare to go along with typical Japanese options. Extensive sake list and late night happy hours are a plus. $$$

H Jung’s Golden Dragon 3009 Magazine St., 891-8280, JungsChinese.com. L, D daily. This Chinese destination is a real find. Along with the usual, you’ll find spicy cold noodle dishes and dumplings.

One of the few local Chinese places that breaks the Americanized mold. $

H Magasin 4201 Magazine St., 8967611, MagasinCafe.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Pho, banh mi and vegetarian options are offered at this attractive and budgetfriendly Vietnamese restaurant. Café sua da is available as well. $ Kyoto 4920 Prytania St., 891-3644, KyotoNola.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A neighborhood sushi restaurant where the regulars order off-the-menu rolls. $$

WEST BANK Nine Roses 1100 Stephen St., 366-7665, NineRosesResturant.com. L, D Sun-Tue, Thu-Sat. The extensive Vietnamese menu specializes in hot pots, noodles and dishes big enough for everyone to

share. $$

Bakery/Breakfast Café du Monde Multiple Locations, CafeDuMonde.com. This New Orleans institution has been serving fresh café au lait, rich hot chocolate and positively addictive beignets since 1862 in the French Market 24/7. $ CC’s Coffee House Multiple locations in New Orleans, Metairie and Northshore, CCsCoffee.com. Coffeehouse specializing in coffee, espresso drinks and pastries. $

BROADMOOR Gracious to Go 7220 Earhart Blvd., 3013709, GraciousBakery.com. B Mon-Fri. Quick-service outpost of Gracious Bakery + Café serves artisan pastries, locally roasted coffee and grab-and-go sandwiches to meet the needs of commuters.

Onsite parking a plus. $

CBD/Warehouse District H Merchant 800 Common St., 571-9580, MerchantNewOrleans.com. B, L daily. Illy coffee and creative crêpes, sandwiches and more are served at this sleek and contemporary café on the ground floor of the Merchant Building. $

H Ruby Slipper Café 200 Magazine St., 525-9355; 1005 Canal St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$

CARROLLTON Breads on Oak, 8640 Oak St., 324-8271, BreadsOnOak.com. B, L Wed-Sun. Artisan bakeshop tucked away near the levee on Oak Street serves breads, sandwiches, gluten-free and vegan-friendly options. $

City Park Morning Call 56 Dreyfous Drive, City Park, 885-4068, NewOrleansCityPark. com/in-the-park/morning-call. 24 hours a day; cash-only. Chicory coffee and beignets coated with powdered sugar make this the quintessential New Orleans coffee shop. $

Faubourg Marigny H Ruby Slipper Café 2001 Burgundy St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net.

B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$

Mid-City Gracious Bakery + Café 1000 S. Jeff Davis Parkway, Suite 100, 301-3709, GraciousBakery.com. B, L daily. Boutique bakery on the ground floor of the Woodward Building offers small-batch coffee, baked goods, individual desserts and sandwiches on breads made in-house.

Catering options available. $

H Ruby Slipper Café 139 S. Cortez St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net.

B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain

specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$

Barbecue Bywater The Joint 701 Mazant St., 949-3232, AlwaysSmokin.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Some of the city’s best barbecue can be had at this locally owned and operated favorite. $

Lower Garden District Voodoo BBQ 1501 St. Charles Ave., 5224647, VoodooBBQAndGrill.com. L, D daily.

Diners are never too far from this homegrown barbecue chain that features an array of specialty sauces to accompany its smoked meats and seafood. $$

Metairie Voodoo BBQ 2740 Severn Ave., 353-4227, VoodooBBQAndGrill.com. L, D daily.

Diners are never too far from this homegrown barbecue chain that features an array of specialty sauces to accompany its smoked meats and seafood. $$

Burgers French Quarter Bayou Burger, 503 Bourbon St., 5294256, SportsBarNewOrleans.com. L, D daily. Sports bar in the thick of Bourbon Street scene distinguishes its fare with choices like Crawfish Beignets and Zydeco Bites. $$ Port of Call 838 Esplanade Ave., 5230120, PortOfCallNola.com. L, D daily. It is all about the big, meaty burgers and giant baked potatoes in this popular bar/ restaurant – unless you’re cocktailing only, then it’s all about the Monsoons. $$

Lakeview Lakeview Harbor 911 Harrison Ave., 486-4887, NewOrleansBestBurger.com.

L, D daily. Burgers are the name of the game at this restaurant. Daily specials, pizza and steaks are offered as well. $

METAIRIE Cheeseburger Eddie’s, 4517 W Esplanade Ave., 455-5511, AustinsNo. com/Cheeseburger-Eddie-s.html. L, D Mon-Sat. Hickory-grilled burgers are the main draw at this casual spot but tacos, tamales, poor boys and more are also served. $

Riverbend H Cowbell 8801 Oak St., 298-8689, Cowbell-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Burgers and homemade sauces on potato rolls are the specialty here, along with other favorites like skirt steak. $$

Uptown H The Company Burger 4600 Freret St., 267-0320, TheCompanyBurger.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Custom-baked butter-brushed buns and fresh-ground beef patties make all the difference at this excellent burger hotspot. Draft beer and craft cocktails round out the appeal. $

French CBD/Warehouse District

Chateau du Lac 857 Fulton St., 301-0235, ChateauduLacWarehouse.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. This casual French bistro, run by chef-owner Jacques Saleun, offers up classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin and blanquette de veau. $$$$ Le Foret 129 Camp St., 553-6738, LeForetNewOrleans.com. D Mon-Sat. Sophisticated fine dining melds southern cuisine and classic French with modernist influences in an elegant setting. $$$$

891-3377, LaPetiteGrocery.com. L TueSat, D daily, Br Sun. Elegant dining in a convivial atmosphere. The menu is heavily French-inspired with an emphasis on technique. $$$ Lilette 3637 Magazine St., 895-1636, LiletteRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D MonSat. Chef John Harris’ innovative menu draws discerning diners to this highly regarded bistro. Desserts are wonderful as well. $$$$$

cocktails and select wines are the focus of this stylish offshoot of John Harris’s nationally acclaimed Lilette. $$ The Delachaise 3442 St. Charles Ave., 895-0858, TheDelaichaise.com. L SatSun, D daily. Cuisine elevated to the standards of the libations is the draw at this lively wine bar and gastropub. Food is grounded in French bistro fare with eclectic twists. $$

Italian

Faubourg St. John H Café Degas 3127 Esplanade Ave.,

Gastropub Abita Springs

Avondale H Mosca’s 4137 Highway 90 West, 463-

945-5635, CafeDegas.com. L, D Wed-Sat, Br Sun. Salad Niçoise, Hanger steak and frites are served in a lovely enclosed courtyard at this jewel of a French bistro. $$

Abita Brew Pub 72011 Holly St., (985) 892-5837, AbitaBrewPub.com. L, D TueSun. Better-than-expected pub food in its namesake eatery. “Tasteful” tours available for visitors. $$

8950, MoscasRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sat. Italian institution dishes out massive portions of great food, family-style. Good bets are the shrimp Mosca and chicken à la grande. Cash only. $$$

French Quarter

CBD/Warehouse District

Broussard’s, 819 Conti St., 581-3866, Broussards.com. D daily, L Fri, Br Sun. Creole-French institution also offers beautiful courtyard seating. $$$$

Gordon Biersch 200 Poydras St., 5522739, GordonBiersch.com. L, D daily. Local outpost of this popular chain serves specialty brews made on-site and crowdpleasing lunch and dinner fare. $$

Bywater H Mariza 2900 Charters St., 598-5700,

H Marti’s 1041 Dumaine St., 522-5478, MartisNola.com. D daily. Classic French cuisine, small plates and chilled seafood platters like Grand Plateau Fruits De Mer are the calling cards for this restaurant with an elegant “Old World” feel. $$$

Victory 339 Baronne St., 522-8664, VictoryNola.com. D Tue-Sat. Craft cocktails served by owner and acclaimed bartender Daniel Victory, as well as refined small plates and gourmet pizza. $$

Lacombe H La Provence 25020 Highway 190,

French Quarter H Cane & Table 1113 Decatur St., 581-

(985) 626-7662, LaProvenceRestaurant. com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun. Chef John Besh upholds time-honored Provençal cuisine and rewards his guests with a true farm-life experience, from house-made preserves, charcuterie, herbs, kitchen gardens and eggs cultivated on the property. $$$$$

1112, CaneAndTableNola.com. L Sat-Sun, D daily. Open late, this chef-driven rustic colonial cuisine and rum and “protoTiki” cocktails make this a fun place to gather. $$

Metairie Chateau du Lac 2037 Metairie Road, 8313773, ChateauduLacBistro.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. This casual French bistro, run by chef-owner Jacques Saleun, offers up classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin and blanquette de veau. $$$$

Uptown Bistro Daisy 5831 Magazine St., 8996987, BistroDaisy.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Anton Schulte and his wife Diane’s bistro serves creative and contemporary bistro fare in a romantic setting. The signature Daisy Salad is a favorite. $$$$

H Coquette 2800 Magazine St., 2650421, CoquetteNola.com. L Wed-Sat, D Wed-Mon, Br Sun. The food is French in inspiration and technique, with added imagination from chef Michael and his partner Lillian Hubbard. $$$ Flaming Torch 737 Octavia St., 895-0900, FlamingTorchNola.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. French classics including a tasty onion soup and often a sought-after coq-au-vin. $$

H La Crêpe Nanou 1410 Robert St., 899-2670, LaCrepeNanou.com. D daily, Br Sun. Classic French bistro fare, including terrific moules and decadent dessert crêpes, are served nightly at this neighborhood institution. $$$ La Petite Grocery 4238 Magazine St.,

Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, OrleansGrapevine.com. D daily. Wine is the muse at this beautifully renovated bistro, which offers vino by the flight, glass and bottle.

A classic menu with an emphasis on local cuisine. $$$

H Patrick’s Bar Vin 730 Bienville St., 200-3180, PatricksBarVin.com. D daily.

This oasis of a wine bar offers terrific selections by the bottle and glass. Small plates are served as well. $$

MarizaNewOrleans.com. D Tue-Sat. An Italian-inspired restaurant by chef Ian Schnoebelen features a terrific raw bar, house-cured charcuterie and an array of refined adult beverages served in the industrial/contemporary setting on the ground floor of the Rice Mills lofts. $$$

CBD/Warehouse District H Domenica The Roosevelt Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 648-6020, DomenicaRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Chef Alon Shaya serves authentic, regional Italian cuisine.

The menu of thin, lightly topped pizzas, artisanal salumi and cheese, and a carefully chosen selection of antipasti, pasta and entrées, features locally raised products, some from chef John Besh’s Northshore farm. $$$$ Red Gravy 4125 Camp St., 561-8844, RedGravy.com. B, Br, L, D, Wed-Mon. Farm-to-table Italian restaurant offers a creative array of breakfast items such as Cannoli Pancakes as well as delectable sandwiches and more for lunch.

Homemade pastas and authentic Tuscan specialties like Cacciucco round out the dinner menu. $$

The Tasting Room 1926 Magazine St., 581-3880, TTRNewOrleans.com. D WedSun. Flights of wine and sophisticated small plates are the calling cards for this wine bar near Coliseum Square. $$

Tommy’s Cuisine 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 581-1103, TommysNewOrleans.com. D daily. Classic Creole-Italian cuisine is the name of the game at this upscale eatery.

Appetizers include the namesake oysters Tommy, baked in the shell with Romano cheese, pancetta and roasted red pepper. $$$$$

Mid-City

French Quarter

Lower Garden District

Trèo 3835 Tulane Ave., 304-4878, TreoNola.com. L Wed-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Craft cocktail bar also serves a short but excellent small plates menu to accompany its artfully composed libations. $$

Uptown

Café Giovanni 117 Decatur St., 529-2154, CafeGiovanni.com. D daily. Live opera singers three nights a week. A selection of Italian specialties tweaked with a Creole influence and their Belli Baci happy hour adds to the atmosphere. $$$$

The Avenue Pub 1732 St. Charles Ave., 586-9243, TheAvenuePub.com. Kitchen open 24/7. With more than 43 rotating draft beers, this pub also offers food, including a cheese plate from St. James Cheese Co. and the “Pub Burger.” Counter service only. $

Chartres House, 601 Chartres St., 5868383, ChartresHouse.com. L, D daily. This iconic French Quarter bar serves terrific Mint Juleps and Gin Fizzes in its picturesque courtyard and balcony settings.

Also famous for its fried green tomatoes and other local favorite dishes. $$$

Bouligny Tavern 3641 Magazine St., 8911810, BoulignyTavern.com. D Mon-Sat. Carefully curated small plates, inventive

Irene’s Cuisine 539 St. Philip St., 529881. D Mon-Sat. Long waits at the lively piano bar are part of the appeal of this Creole-Italian favorite beloved by locals.

Try the oysters Irene and crabmeat gratin appetizers. $$$$

H Italian Barrel 430 Barracks St., 569-0198, ItalianBarrel.com. L, D daily.

Northern Italian dishes like Braciola di Maiale as well as an exhaustive pasta menu tempt here at this local favorite that also offers al fresco seating. $$$ Muriel’s Jackson Square 801 Chartres St., 568-1885, Muriels.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Enjoy pecan-crusted drum and other local classics while dining in the courtyard bar or any other room in this labyrinthine, rumored-to-be-haunted establishment. $$$$ Napoleon House 500 Chartres St., 524522-4152, NapoleonHouse.com. L Mon-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Originally built in 1797 as a respite for Napoleon, this family-owned European-style café serves local favorites gumbo, jambalaya and muffulettas, and for sipping, a Sazerac or lemony Pimm’s Cup are perfect accompaniments. $$ NOLA 534 St. Louis St., 522-6652, Emerils.com. L Thu-Mon, D daily. Emeril’s more affordable eatery, featuring cedarplank-roasted redfish; private dining. $$$$$ Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill 115 Bourbon St., 598-1200, RedFishGrill.com.

L, D daily. Chef Austin Kirzner cooks up a broad menu peppered with local favorites such as barbecue oysters, blackened redfish and double-chocolate bread pudding. $$$$$ Arnaud’s Remoulade 309 Bourbon St., 523-0377, Remoulade.com. L, D daily.

Granite-topped tables and an antique mahogany bar are home to the eclectic menu of famous shrimp Arnaud, red beans and rice and poor boys as well as specialty burgers, grilled all-beef hot dogs and thin-crust pizza. $$

H R’evolution 777 Bienville St., 5532277, RevolutionNola.com. L Wed-Fri, D daily, Br Sun. An opulent place that combines the local flavors of chef John Folse with the more cosmopolitan influence of chef Rick Tramonto. Chef de cuisine Chris Lusk and executive sous chef Erik Veney are in charge of day-to-day operations, which include house-made charcuterie, pastries, pastas and more. $$$$$

H Tujague’s 823 Decatur St., 525-8676, TujaguesRestaurant.com. L Sat-Sun, D daily. For more than 150 years this landmark restaurant has been offering Creole cuisine. Favorites include a nightly six-course table d’hôté menu featuring a unique beef brisket with Creole sauce. $$$$$

harahan Oak Oven 6625 Jefferson Highway, Harahan, 305-4039, OakOvenRestaurant. com. L, D Mon-Sat. Wood-fired pizza and seasonal Italian cuisine with a locavore philosophy brings respite to the burbs.

Family friendly with patio seating to boot. $$

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DINING GUIDE H Tony Angello’s 6262 Fleur de Lis Drive, 488-0888, TonyAngellos.com. D Tue-Sat. Creole-Italian favorite serves up fare. Ask Tony to “Feed Me” if you want a real multi-course dining experience. $$$$

Metairie H Andrea’s Restaurant 3100 19th St., 834-8583, AndreasRestaurant.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily, Br Sun. Osso buco and homemade pastas in a setting that’s both elegant and intimate; off-premise catering. $$$ Semolina 4436 Veterans Blvd., Suite 37, 454-7930, Semolina.com. L, D daily. This casual, contemporary pasta restaurant takes a bold approach to cooking Italian food, emphasizing flavors, texture and color. Many of the dishes feature a signature Louisiana twist, such as the muffuletta pasta and pasta jambalaya. $$ Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 4411 Chastant St., 885-2984, Metairie, VicentsItalianCuisine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Snug Italian boîte packs them in, yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$

Mid-City H Liuzza’s 3636 Bienville St., 482-9120, Liuzzas.com. L, D daily. Classic neighborhood joint serves favorites like the “Frenchuletta,” stuffed artichokes and andouille gumbo. Kid’s menu offered. $$ Ralph’s On The Park 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000, RalphsOnThePark.com. Br Sun, L Tue-Fri, D daily. A modern interior and contemporary Creole dishes such as City Park salad, turtle soup, barbecue Gulf shrimp and good cocktails. $$$$

NORTHSHORE H Del Porto Ristorante 501 E. Boston St., (985) 875-1006, DelPortoRistorante. com. L, D Tue-Sat. One of the Northshore’s premier fine dining destinations serving Italian food that makes use of locally sourced meats and produce. $$$

Uptown Amici 3218 Magazine St., 300-1250, AmiciNola.com. L, D daily. Coal-fired pizza is the calling card for this destination, but the menu offers an impressive list of authentic and Creole Italian specialties as well. $$ Pascal’s Manale 1838 Napoleon Ave.,

895-4877, PascalsManale.com. L MonFri, D Mon-Sat. Vintage neighborhood restaurant since 1913 and the place to go for the creation of barbecued shrimp.

Its oyster bar serves icy cold, freshly shucked Louisiana oysters and the Italian specialties and steaks are also solid. $$$$ Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, VicentsItalianCuisine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sun. Snug Italian boîte packs them in yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$

Louisianian Fare CBD/Warehouse District H Annunciation 1016 Annunciation St., 568-0245, AnnunciationRestaurant. com. D Mon-Sat. Chef Steven Manning brings a refined sensibility to this refined Warehouse District oasis along with his famous fried oysters with melted brie. $$$ Balise 640 Carondelet St., 459-4449, BaliseNola.com. L Mon-Fri, D nightly.

Chef Justin Devillier turns back the clock at this turn-of-the-century inspired bistro in the CBD. Decidedly masculine fare – think venison tartare with horseradish and pumpernickel – is carefully crafted and fits well alongside the excellent cocktail and beer list. $$$ Bon Ton Cafe 401 Magazine St., 5243386, TheBonTonCafe.com. L, D Mon-Fri. A local favorite for the old-school business lunch crowd specializing in local seafood and Cajun dishes. $$$$ Café Adelaide Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras St., 595-3305, CafeAdelaide. com. B, D daily, L Mon-Fri. This offering from the Commander’s Palace family of restaurants has become a powerlunch favorite for business-people and politicos. Also features the Swizzle Stick Bar. $$$$

Drago’s Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 584-3911, DragosRestaurant. com. L, D daily. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$

HoumasHouse.com. D Wed-Sun. Nouvelle Louisiane, plantation-style cooking served in an opulent setting features dishes like rack of lamb and plume de veau. $$$$$

Emeril’s 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 5289393, EmerilsRestaurants.com. L MonFri, D daily. The flagship of superstar chef Emeril Lagasse’s culinary empire, this landmark attracts pilgrims from all over the world. $$$$$

Feelings Cafe 2600 Chartres St., 9452222, FeelingsCafe.com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun. Romantic ambiance and skillfully created dishes, such as veal d’aunoy, make dining here on the patio a memorable experience. A piano bar on Fridays adds to the atmosphere. Vegan menu offered. $$$$

H Herbsaint 701 St. Charles Ave., 524-4114, Herbsaint.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail before sampling chef Donald Link’s menu that melds contemporary bistro fare with classic Louisiana cuisine. The banana brown butter tart is a favorite dessert. $$$$$ Mother’s 401 Poydras St., 523-9656, MothersRestaurant.net. B, L, D daily.

Locals and tourists alike endure long queues and a confounding ordering system to enjoy iconic dishes such as the Ferdi poor boy and Jerry’s jambalaya.

Come for a late lunch to avoid the rush. $$

588-2123, CochonRestaurant.com. L, D, Mon-Sat. Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski showcase Cajun and Southern cuisine at this hot spot. Boudin and other pork dishes reign supreme here, along with Louisiana seafood and real moonshine from the bar. Reservations strongly recommended. $$

Horn’s 1940 Dauphine St., Marigny, 459-4676, HornsNola.com. B, L daily, D Thu-Mon. This casual, eclectic watering hole offers offbeat twists on classics (the Jewish Coonass features latkes to go with the crawfish etouffée) as well as the usual breakfast and lunch diner fare. $ Praline Connection 542 Frenchmen St., 943-3934, PralineConnection.com. L, D daily. Down-home dishes of smothered pork chops, greens, beans and cornbread are on the menu at this Creole soul restaurant. $$

French Quarter

Mulate’s 201 Julia St., 522-1492, Mulates.com. L, D daily. Live music and dancing add to the fun at this worldfamous Cajun destination. $$

Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville St., 522-5973, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily.

Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$

Palette 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 613-2350, B, L, D daily. Creole, Cajun and French flavors all come together at this restaurant in the Renaissance Hotel near the Convention Center. $$

H Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., 523-5433,

Central City Café Reconcile 1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 568-1157, CafeReconcile.org. L Mon-Fri. Good food for a great cause, this nonprofit on the burgeoning OCH corridor helps train at-risk youth for careers in the food service industry. $$

Darrow

H Cochon 930 Tchoupitoulas St.,

Faubourg Marigny

ArnaudsRestaurant.com. D daily, Br Sun. Waiters in tuxedos prepare Café Brûlot tableside at this storied Creole grande dame; live jazz during Sun. brunch. $$$$$ Antoine’s 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422, Antoines.com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. This pinnacle of haute cuisine and birthplace of oysters Rockefeller is New Orleans’ oldest restaurant. (Every item is á la carte, with an $11 minimum.) Private dining rooms available. $$$$$

Café Burnside Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, HoumasHouse.com. L daily, Br Sun. Historic plantation’s casual dining option features dishes such as seafood pasta, fried catfish, crawfish and shrimp, gumbo and red beans and rice. $$

H The Bistreaux New Orleans Maison

Latil’s Landing Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380,

The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St., 586-0972, TheBombayClub.

Dupuy Hotel, 1001 Toulouse St., 5868000, MaisonDupuy.com/dining.html. L, D daily. Dishes ranging from the casual (truffle mac and cheese) to the upscale (tuna tasting trio) are served in an elegant courtyard. $$

Ruby Slipper offers diners ‘No Wait’ App The Ruby Slipper Café, Downtown, Marigny and Mid-City: TheRubySlipperCafe.net The Ruby Slipper Café is one of the first restaurant groups in the city to offer guests the new ‘No Wait Guest’ app. Family-owned and operated, the hugely popular restaurants don’t take reservations and often have lines for tables.

Now diners at the Downtown and Marigny locations can use the app to look up wait times and sign up to the wait list. It updates diners on their place in line and sends a text when the table will be ready. It is available on apple devices and androids for parties under six people. – M.C.

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cheryl gerber photograph

com. D daily. Popular martini bar with plush British décor features live music during the week and late dinner and drinks on weekends. Nouveau Creole menu includes items such as Bombay drum. $$$$ Café Maspero 601 Decatur St., 523-6250, CafeMaspero.com. L, D daily. Tourists line up for their generous portions of seafood and large deli sandwiches. $ Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St., 522-7261, CourtOfTwoSisters.com. Br, D daily. The historic environs make for a memorable outdoor dining experience.

The famous daily Jazz Brunch buffet and classic Creole dishes sweeten the deal. $$$$$

fried oysters. Live music a plus. $$$

favorite. $$

deal. $$$$

Royal House, 441 Royal St., 528-2601, RoyalHouseRestaurant.com. L, D daily. B Sat and Sun. Poor boys, jambalaya and shrimp Creole are some of the favorites served here. Weekend breakfast and an oyster bar add to the crowd-pleasing appeal. $$$

Lil’ Dizzy’s Café 1500 Esplanade Ave., 569-8997, LilDizzysCafe.com. B, L daily, Br Sun. Spot local and national politicos dining at this favored Creole soul restaurant known for homey classics like fried chicken and trout Baquet. $

Dick and Jenny’s 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 894-9880, DickAndJennys.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. A funky cottage serving Louisiana comfort food with flashes of innovation. $$$$

SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, SoBouNola.com. B, L, D daily. There is something for everyone at this “Modern Creole Saloon.” Decidedly unstuffy with an emphasis on craft cocktails and wines by the glass. Everything from $1 pork cracklins to an extravagant foie gras burger on accomplished yet eclectic menus. $$

MandinasRestaurant.com. L, D daily.

Though the ambiance is more upscale, the food and seafood dishes make dining here a New Orleans experience. $$

Criollo Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., 681-4444, CriolloNola.com. B, L, D daily. Next to the famous Carousel Bar in the historic Monteleone Hotel, Criollo represents an amalgam of the various cultures reflected in Louisiana cooking and cuisine, often with a slight contemporary twist. $$$

H Tableau 616 S. Peter St., 934-3463,

H Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House 144

Kenner

Bourbon St., 522-0111, BourbonHouse. com. B, L, D daily. Classic Creole dishes such as redfish on the halfshell and baked oysters served. Its extensive bourbon menu will please aficionados. $$$$

Copeland’s 1319 W. Esplanade Ave., 6179146, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$

Galatoire’s 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, Galatoires.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Friday lunches are a New Orleans tradition at this world-famous French-Creole grand dame. Tradition counts for everything here, and the crabmeat Sardou is delicious. Note: Jackets required for dinner and all day Sun. $$$$$

Lakeview H Cava 789 Harrison Ave., 304-9034. D

House of Blues 225 Decatur St., 3104999, HouseOfBlues.com/NewOrleans. L, D daily. Surprisingly good menu complements music in the main room. Worldfamous Gospel Brunch every Sunday.

Patio seating available. $$ Killer Poboys 811 Conti St., 252-6745, KillerPoboys.blogspot.com. L, D WedMon. This quasi-popup operating out of the Erin Rose Bar serves some of the city’s best poor boys, including one featuring glazed pork belly. $ K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 416 Chartres St., 596-2530, ChefPaul.com/KPaul. L Thu-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Paul Prudhomme’s landmark restaurant helped introduce Cajun food to a grateful nation. Lots of seasoning and bountiful offerings, along with reserved seating, make this a destination for locals and tourists alike. $$$$

H MiLa 817 Common St., 412-2580, MiLaNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Latest offering from husbandand-wife chefs Slade Rushing and Allison Vines-Rushing focuses on the fusion of the cuisines of Miss. and La. $$$$ Richard Fiske’s Martini Bar & Restaurant, 301 Dauphine St., 586-0972, RichardFiskes.com. D nightly. Just a few steps off of Bourbon Street you can find this relaxing bar featuring an innovative menu with dishes like Crawfish, Jalapeno-andBacon Mac and Cheese garnished with

TableauFrenchQuarter.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Gulf seafood such as trout amandine and classic Creole brunch dishes like eggs Sardou are the highlights of this Dickie Brennan restaurant that shares space with Le Petite Théâtre on the corner of Jackson Square. $$$

Mon-Sat. Fine dining (and excellent wine list) at this high-end Cajun and Creole restaurant that makes customer service a big part of the experience. $$$

Metairie/Jefferson Acme Oyster House 3000 Veterans Blvd., 309-4056, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily.

Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$ Austin’s 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 8885533, AustinsNo.com. D Mon-Sat. Mr. Ed’s upscale bistro serves contemporary Creole fare, including seafood and steaks. $$$ Copeland’s 1001 S. Clearview Parkway, 620-7800; 701 Veterans Blvd., 831-3437, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky.

Popular for lunch. $$ Crabby Jack’s 428 Jefferson Highway, 833-2722, CrabbyJacksNola.com. L MonSat. Lunch outpost of Jacques-Imo’s.

Famous for its fried seafood and poor boys including fried green tomatoes and roasted duck. $ Drago’s 3232 N. Arnoult Road, 888-9254, DragosRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented.

Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$

Mid-City H Katie’s Restaurant and Bar 3701 Iberville St., 488-6582, KatiesInMidCity. com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Creative poor boys, local dishes such as gumbo and Sunday brunch make this a neighborhood

H Mandina’s 3800 Canal St., 482-9179,

H Redemption 3835 Iberville St., 3093570, Redemption-Nola.com. L Wed-Fri & Sun, D Wed-Sun. Chef-driven “Revival” Creole fare served in an inspiring former church. $$$

H Toups’ Meatery 845 N. Carrollton Ave., 252-4999, ToupsMeatery.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Charcuterie, specialty cocktails and an exhaustive list of excellent à la carte sides make this restaurant a carnivore’s delight. $$$

NORTHSHORE Acme Oyster House 1202 N. Highway 190, Covington, (985) 246-6155, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$ Gallagher’s Grill 509 S. Tyler St., (985) 892-9992, GallaghersGrill.com. L, D TueFri, D Sat. Chef Pat Gallagher’s destination restaurant offers al fresco seating to accompany classically inspired New Orleans fare. Event catering offered. $$$

Riverbend H Boucherie 1506 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-5514, Boucherie-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Serving contemporary Southern food with an international angle, chef Nathaniel Zimet offers excellent ingredients presented simply. $$ Brigtsen’s 723 Dante St., 861-7610, Brigtsens.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Frank Brigtsen’s nationally famous Creole cuisine makes this cozy cottage a true foodie destination. $$$$$

Uptown H Apolline 4729 Magazine St., 894-8881, ApollineRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sun, Br Sat-Sun. Cozy gem serves a refined menu of French and Creole classics peppered with Southern influences such as buttermilk fried quail with corn waffle. $$$ Casamento’s 4330 Magazine St., 8959761, CasamentosRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D Thu-Sat. The family-owned restaurant has shucked oysters and fried seafood since 1919; closed during summer and for all major holidays. $$ Clancy’s 6100 Annunciation St., 8951111, ClancysNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Their Creole-inspired menu has been a favorite of locals for years. $$$ Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221, CommandersPalace. com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. The grande dame is going strong under the auspices of James Beard Award-winner chef Tory McPhail. Jazz Brunch is a great

Domilise’s 5240 Annunciation St., 899-912. L, D Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat. Local institution and rite-of-passage for those wanting an initiation to the real New Orleans. Wonderful poor boys and a unique atmosphere make this a one-of-a-kind place. $

H Gautreau’s 1728 Soniat St., 899-7397, GautreausRestaurant.com. D Mon-Sat. Upscale destination serves refined interpretations of classics along with contemporary creations. $$$$$ Jacques-Imo’s Cafe 8324 Oak St., 8610886, Jacques-Imos.com. D Mon-Sat. Reinvented New Orleans cuisine served in a party atmosphere. The deep-fried roast beef poor boy is delicious. The lively bar scene offsets the long wait on weekends. $$$$ Joey K’s 3001 Magazine St., 891-0997, JoeyKsRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A true neighborhood restaurant with daily lunch plates; red beans and rice are classic. $ Mahony’s 3454 Magazine St., 899-3374, MahonysPoBoys.com. L, D daily. Along with the usual poor boys, this sandwich shop serves up a grilled shrimp and fried green tomato version dressed with remoulade sauce. Sandwich offerings are augmented by a full bar. $ Mat & Naddie’s 937 Leonidas St., 8619600, MatAndNaddies.com. D Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat. Cozy converted house serves up creative and eclectic regionally inspired fare. Shrimp and crawfish croquettes make for a good appetizer and when the weather is right the romantic patio is the place to sit. $$$$

WEST BANK Copeland’s 2333 Manhattan Blvd., 3641575, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$

Pizza Reginelli’s Pizzeria Multiple Locations, Reginellis.com. L, D daily. Pizzas, pastas, salads, fat calzones and lofty focaccia sandwiches are at locations all over town. $$ Theo’s Pizza Multiple Locations, TheosPizza.com. L, D daily. The crackercrisp crust pizzas are complemented by a broad assortment of toppings with a lot of local ingredients at cheap prices. $$

Bywater H Pizza Delicious 617 Piety St., 6768282, PizzaDelicious.com. Authentic New York-style thin crust pizza is the reason to come to this affordable restaurant that began as a pop-up, but they also offer excellent salads sourced from small farms and homemade pasta dishes as well. Outdoor seating a plus. $

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DINING GUIDE Uptown H Ancora 4508 Freret St., 324-1636, AncoraPizza.com. D Mon-Sat. Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza fired in an oven imported from Naples. The housemade charcuterie makes it a double-winner. $$ Pizza Domenica 4933 Magazine St., 301-4978, PizzaDomenica.com. L Fri-Sun, D nightly. James Beard Award Winning Chef Alon Shaya’s pizza centric spinoff of his popular Restaurant Domenica brings Neapolitan-style pies to Uptown. Excellent salads and charcuterie boards are offered as well. $$ Slice 1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-PIES (7437); 5538 Magazine St., 897-4800; SlicePizzeria.com. L, D daily. Order up slices or whole pizza pies done in several styles (thin- and thick-crust) as well as pastas, seafood, panini and salads. $

Seafood Akers Middendorf’s Interstate 55, Exit 15, 30160 Highway 51 South, (985) 3866666, MiddendorfsRestaurant.com. L, D Wed-Sun. Historic seafood destination along the shores of Lake Maurepas is world-famous for its thin-fried catfish fillets. Open since 1934, it’s more than a restaurant, it’s a Sun. drive tradition. $$

CBD/Warehouse District H Borgne 601 Loyola Ave., 613-3860, BorgneRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Coastal Louisiana seafood with an emphasis on Isleños cuisine (descendants of Canary Islanders who settled in St. Bernard Parish) is the focus of this high-volume destination adjacent to the Superdome. $$$

H Pêche 800 Magazine St., 522-1744, PecheRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Award-winning southern-inspired seafood destination by chef Donald Link serves whole roasted Gulf fish from its massive, wood-burning oven. An excellent raw bar is offered as well. $$$

French Quarter Bourbon House 144 Bourbon St., 5220111, BourbonHouse.com. B, L, D daily.

Local seafood, featured in both classic and contemporary dishes, is the focus of this New Orleans-centric destination.

And yes, bourbon is offered as well. $$$ Deanie’s Seafood 841 Iberville St., 581-

1316, Deanies.com. L, D daily. Louisiana seafood, baked, broiled, boiled and fried is the name of the game. Try the barbecue shrimp or towering seafood platters. $$$

H GW Fins 808 Bienville St., 581-FINS (3467), GWFins.com. D daily. Owners Gary Wollerman and twice chef of the year Tenney Flynn provide dishes at their seasonal peak. On a quest for unique variety, menu is printed daily. $$$$$

H Kingfish 337 Charters St., 598-5005, CocktailBarNewOrleans.com. L, D daily.

Gulf seafood and nouvelle Creole dishes such as smoked rabbit gumbo are the main draws at this establishment helmed

by Greg Sonnier, as well as the excellent bar program by mixologist Chris McMillian. $$$ Landry’s Seafood 400 N. Peters St., 5580038, LandrysSeafood.com. Kid-friendly and popular seafood spot serves of heaping platters of fried shrimp, Gulf oysters, catfish and more. $$

Ave., 888-5533, AustinsNo.com. D MonSat. Signature steak, seafood and Italian specialties reign at this dinner-only destination. Catering offered as well. $$$ Deanie’s Seafood 1713 Lake Ave., 8314141, Deanies.com. L, D daily. Louisiana seafood, baked, broiled, boiled and fried, is the name of the game. Try the barbecue shrimp or towering seafood platters. $$$ Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 1001 Live Oak St., 838-0022, AustinsNo.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper. Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$

Uptown Frankie & Johnny’s 321 Arabella St., 243-1234, FrankieAndJohnnys.net. L, D daily. Serves fried and boiled seafood along with poor boys and daily lunch specials. Kid-friendly with a game room to boot. $$

Le Bayou, 208 Bourbon St., 525-4755, LeBayouRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Blackened redfish and Shrimp Ya-Ya are a just a few of the choices at this seafood-centric destination on Bourbon Street. Fried alligator is available for the more daring diner. $$$

West End

Oceana Grill 739 Conti St., 525-6002, OceanaGrill.com. B, L, D daily. Gumbo, poor boys and barbecue shrimp are served at this kid-friendly seafood destination. $$

Steakhouse

Pier 424, 424 Bourbon St., 309-1574, Pier424SeafoodMarket.com. L, D daily.

Seafood-centric restaurant offers long menu of traditional New Orleans fare augmented by unusual twists like “Cajun-Boiled” Lobster prepared crawfish-style in spicy crab boil. $$$

Kenner Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 910 W. Esplanade Ave., Ste. A, 463-3030, AustinsNo.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper. Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$

Metairie Austin’s Restaurant, 5101 W. Esplanade

Landry’s Seafood 8000 Lakeshore Drive, West End, 283-1010, LandrysSeafood. com. Kid-friendly and popular seafood spot serves of heaping platters of fried shrimp, Gulf oysters, catfish and more. $$

CBD/Warehouse District H Besh Steak Harrah’s Casino, 8 Canal St., 533-6111, HarrahsNewOrleans. com. D daily. Acclaimed chef John Besh reinterprets the classic steakhouse with his signature contemporary Louisiana flair. $$$$$ Chophouse New Orleans 322 Magazine St., 522-7902, ChophouseNola.com. D daily. In addition to USDA prime grade aged steaks prepared under a broiler that reaches 1,700 degrees, Chophouse offers lobster, redfish and classic steakhouse sides. $$$

H Desi Vega’s Steakhouse 628 St. Charles Ave., 523-7600, DesiVegaSteaks. com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. USDA Prime steaks form the base of this Mr. John’s offshoot overlooking Lafayette Square, but Italian specialties and a smattering of locally inspired seafood dishes round out the appeal. $$$

H La Boca 870 Tchoupitoulas St., 5258205, LaBocaSteaks.com. D Mon-Sat. This Argentine steakhouse specializes in cuts of meat along with pastas and wines.

Specials include the provoleta appetizer and the Vacio flank steak. $$$ Morton’s The Steakhouse 365 Canal St., One Canal Place, 566-0221, Mortons. com/NewOrleans. D daily. Private elevator leads to the plush, wood-paneled environs of this local outpost of the famed Chicago steakhouse popular with politicians and celebrities. $$$$ Ruth’s Chris Steak House Harrah’s Hotel, 525 Fulton St., 587-7099, RuthsChris. com. D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Filet mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$

Garden District H Mr. John’s Steakhouse 2111 St. Charles Ave., 679-7697, MrJohnsSteakhouse.com. D Tue-Sat, L Friday. Wood paneling, white tile and USDA Prime Beef served sizzling in butter are the hallmarks of this classic New Orleans steakhouse. $$$

French Quarter Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse 716 Iberville St., 522-2467, DickieBrennansSteakhouse.com. L Fri, D daily. Nationally recognized steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks and local seafood. $$$$$

H Doris Metropolitan 620 Chartres St., 267-3500, DorisMetropolitan.com. L SatSun, D daily. Innovative, genre-busting steakhouse plays with expectations and succeeds with modernist dishes like their Classified Cut and Beetroot Supreme. $$$$ Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak 215 Bourbon St., 335-3932, Galatoires33BarAndSteak. com. L Fri, D Sun-Thu. Steakhouse offshoot of the venerable Creole grande dame offers hand-crafted cocktails to accompany classic steakhouse fare as well as inspired dishes like the Gouté 33: horseradish-crusted bone marrow and deviled eggs with crab ravigote and smoked trout. Reservations accepted. $$$

Metairie

Nonna Randazzo’s Secret Recipe King Cake Now Available Nonna Randazzo’s Bakery with locations in Covington, Mandeville and Chalmette: NonnaRandazzo.com For many, January augurs in diets and detoxes. Conversely in New Orleans, it’s the start of Mardi Gras and King Cake season. For the Randazzo family that means one thing: lines at their bakeries for what has been called the “King of King Cakes.” Handbraided and baked fresh daily, the traditional Randazzo’s King Cake is cinnamon flavored, iced and decorated in purple, green and gold. There are also Cream Cheese, Strawberry Cream Cheese and Pecan Praline varieties. Many say the bakery’s secret is pumping the filling into the braids before it is baked. Truth is, the recipe has been secret for 50 years and still is. – M.C.

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cheryl gerber photograph

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 3633 Veterans Blvd., 888-3600, RuthsChris.com. L Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Filet mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$

Mid-City H Crescent City Steaks 1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271, CrescentCitySteaks.com. L Tue-Fri & Sun, D daily. One of the classic New Orleans steakhouses. Steaks, sides and drinks are what you get. $$$$

Uptown Charlie’s Steak House 4510 Dryades St., 895-9323, CharliesSteakHouseNola. com. D Tues-Sat. This quintessential New Orleans neighborhood steak house serves up carnivorous delights including its 32-ounce T-Bone in a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. An upstairs dining room accommodates larger parties with ease. $$$

Vegan/Vegetarian Lower Garden District H The Green Fork 1400 Prytania St., 267-7672, GreenForkNola.com. B, L Mon-Sat. Fresh juices, smoothies and vegetarian-friendly fare make The Green Fork a favorite for lovers of healthy food.

Catering is offered as well. $$

World Byblos Multiple Locations, ByblosRestaurants.com. L, D daily. Upscale Middle Eastern cuisine featuring traditional seafood, lamb and vegetarian options. $$

Bywater H Booty’s Street Food 800 Louisa St., 266-2887, BootysNola.com. B, L, D daily.

Street food culled from countries around the globe is the muse of this creative establishment, where papadum from India resides confidently alongside Peruvian ceviche. $$

PalaceCafe.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily, Br Sun. Dickie Brennan-owned brasserie with French-style sidewalk seating and house-created specialties of chef Darrin Nesbit. Favorites here include crabmeat cheesecake, turtle soup, the Werlein salad with fried Louisiana oysters and pork “debris” studded Palace potato pie. $$$$$

Faubourg Marigny H Mona’s Café 504 Frenchmen St., 949-4115. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $

Faubourg St. John H 1000 Figs 3141 Ponce De Leon St.,

H Mona’s Café 3901 Banks St., 4827743. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $

Upper 9th Ward

Bayona 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455, Bayona.com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Chef Susan Spicer’s nationally acclaimed cuisine is served in this 200-year-old cottage. Ask for a seat on the romantic patio, weather permitting. $$$$$ El Gato Negro 81 French Market Place, 525-9752, ElGatoNegroNola.com. Central Mexican cuisine along with handmuddled mojitos and margaritas made with freshly squeezed juice. A weekend breakfast menu is an additional plus. $$

Kenner H Fiesta Latina 1924 Airline Drive, 4682384, FiestaLatinaRestaurant.com. B, L, D daily. A big-screen TV normally shows a soccer match or MTV Latino at this home for authentic Central American food.

Tacos include a charred carne asada. $$

MondoNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Chef Susan Spicer’s take on world cuisine. Make sure to call ahead because the place has a deserved reputation for good food and good times. $$$

Palace Café 605 Canal St., 523-1661,

4199, MilkfishNola.com. L, D Thu-Tue. Filipino cuisine like adobo and lumpia is served, further expanding dining opportunities. $$

French Quarter

CBD/Warehouse District

LukeNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Chef John Besh and executive chef Matt Regan serve Germanic specialties and French bistro classics, housemade patés and abundant plateaux of cold, fresh seafood. $$$

H Milkfish 125 N. Carrollton Ave., 267-

H Taqueria Guerrero 208 N. Carrollton

Lakewood H Mizado 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd.,

H Lüke 333 St. Charles Ave., 378-2840,

Lola’s 3312 Esplanade Ave., 488-6946, LolasNewOrleans.com. D daily. Garlicky Spanish dishes and great paella make this artsy boîte a hipster destination. $$$

301-0848, 1000Figs.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Vegetarian-friendly offshoot of the Fat Falafel Food Truck offers a healthy farm-to-table alternative to cookie-cutter Middle Eastern places. $$

The Green Goddess 307 Exchange Place, 301-3347, GreenGoddessRestaurant.com.

L, D Wed-Sun. One of the most imaginative local restaurants. The menu is constantly changing, and chef Paul Artigues always has ample vegetarian options.

Combine all of that with a fantastic selection of drinks, wine and beer, and it’s the total (albeit small) package. $$ Johnny Sanchez 930 Poydras St., 304-6615, JohnnySanchezRestaurant. com. L, D daily. Contemporary Mexican mecca offering celebrity chef cachet to go along with the locally sourced produce accompanying the Bistec a la Parilla.

Popular happy hour and downtown locale next to South Market District add to the appeal. $$$

massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $

885-5555, MizadoCocina.com. L daily, D Mon-Sat. Sleek restaurant offers modern Mexican cuisine featuring pan-Latin flavors and influences. Small batch tequila and a ceviche bar make it a party. $$

Lakeview H Mondo 900 Harrison Ave., 224-2633,

METAIRIE Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, VegaTapasCafe.com. D MonSat. Fun, eclectic small plates destination offers creative fare keeps guests coming back with frequent regionally inspired specialty menus served with humor and whimsy. $$

Mid-City Juan’s Flying Burrito 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950, JuansFlyingBurrito. com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and

Ave., 484-6959. B, L, D, Tue-Sat. Friendly staff and authentic Mexican cuisine make this affordable neighborhood restaurant a neighborhood favorite. $ Kebab , 2315 Saint Claude Ave., 3834328, KebabNola.com. L, D Fri-Mon. The menu is short and tasty at this kebab outpost along the revitalized St. Claude Avenue corridor. $

Uptown H Café Abyssinia 3511 Magazine St., 894-6238. L, D daily. One of a just few authentic Ethiopian restaurants in the city, excellent injera and spicy vegetarian fare make this a local favorite. $$

H Irish House 1432 St. Charles Ave., 595-6755, TheIrishHouseNewOrleans. com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Irish pub dishes such as shepherd’s pie and fish and chips are featured here, as well as creative cocktails like Irish iced coffee. Check the schedule of events for live music. $$ Jamila’s Mediterranean Tunisian Cuisine 7808 Maple St., 866-4366. D TueSun. Intimate and exotic bistro serving Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine. The Grilled Merguez is a Jazz Fest favorite and vegetarian options are offered. $$ Juan’s Flying Burrito 2018 Magazine St., 569-0000, JuansFlyingBurrito.com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $

H Mona’s Café 4126 Magazine St., 8949800; 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 861-8174.

L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $

The food is French in technique, with influences from across the Mediterranean as well as the American South, all filtered through the talent of chef Aaron Burgau. Reservations recommended. $$$

H Shaya 4213 Magazine St., 891-4213, ShayaRestaurant.com. L, D daily. James Beard Award-winning chef Alon Shaya pays homage to his native Israel with this contemporary Israeli hotspot. Fattoush Salad and Matzo Ball Soup made with slow-cooked duck are dishes to try. $$$

Specialty Foods CBD/Warehouse District Calcasieu 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 5882188, CalcasieuRooms.com. For gatherings both large and small, the catering menus feature modern Louisiana cooking and the Cajun cuisine for which chef Donald Link is justifiably famous.

French Quarter Antoine’s Annex 513 Royal St., 5258045, Antoines.com/Antoines-Annex.

Open daily. Serves French pastries, including individual baked Alaskas, ice cream and gelato, as well as panini, salads and coffee. Delivery available.

Metairie Sucré 3301 Veterans Blvd., 834-2277, ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily. Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts. Catering available.

Mid-City H Blue Dot Donuts 4301 Canal St., 2184866, BlueDotDonuts.com. B, L Tue-Sun. The Bacon Maple Long John gets all the press, but returning customers are happy with the classics as well as twists like peanut butter and jelly.

Uptown Blue Frog Chocolates 5707 Magazine St., 269-5707, BlueFrogChocolates.com. Open daily, closed Sundays in summer. French and Belgian chocolate truffles and Italian candy flowers make this a great place for gifts.

St. James Cheese Company 5004 Prytania St., 899-4737, StJamesCheese. com. Open daily. Specialty shop offers a selection of fine cheeses, wines, beers and related accouterments. Look for wine and cheese specials every Friday.

Sucré 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311, ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily & nightly.

Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts.

Catering available. n

H Panchita’s 1434 S. Carrollton Ave., 281-4127. L, D daily. Authentic, budgetfriendly Mexican restaurant serves tamales, mole and offers free chips and salsa as well as sangria. $

H Patois 6078 Laurel St., 895-9441, PatoisNola.com. L Fri, D Wed-Sat, Br Sun.

If you feel that a restaurant has been misplaced, please email Managing Editor Morgan Packard at Morgan@MyNewOrleans.com. myneworleans.com / JANUARY 2016

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ADVERTISING SECTION

The Albuquerque from QUEORK

What’s New

The Latest from around New Orleans

L

ooking for a way to spend your weekends this month? Whether you’re seeking a place to shop and a restaurant to try, or opportunities for family fun such as entertainment, travel ideas, or new real estate, there are options and offerings all over town for new experiences. Check out the latest from the following area businesses and everyone will think you an expert from your abundance of recommendations on everything from fashion and accessories to where to grab a bite and drink before the main event. With carnival season arriving and cool winter weather to draw you out of the house, January is the perfect time to explore what’s new around the bustling city. Get your fill of fun and merriment now, as the moderation of Lent awaits around the corner!

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ADVERTISING SECTION

Shopping In a town as decadent as New Orleans, everyone is bound to have a friend that’s hard to shop for. What do you get for the man or woman who has everything? And where do you go to treat yourself to a new, fabulous accessory that no one else will have? QUEORK, of course – a fantastic French Quarter boutique that’s the first of its kind not only in NOLA, but in the United States! As the first non-import based cork company in the US, QUEORK is a local business that specializes in fine cork shoes, handbags and accessories.

Cork comes from the cork oak tree native to Portugal, Spain and Morocco, and is the only tree in the world that regenerates after its bark is sheared in fabric making. That’s right – it grows back! It has been called a “fairy tale fabric,” for its waterproof, scratchproof, stain resistant, hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and 100 percent vegan qualities. Cork is utilitarian, while still beautiful and unique. From handbags to wallets, belts and bow ties, there’s something for everyone at QUEORK. You can even get a collar for that special furry friend in your life.

Visit QUEORK at 838 Rue Chartres or shop online at Queork.com.

While Trashy Diva is a distinctly New Orleans clothing company with five locations spread across the city, their vintage-inspired designs are known and coveted worldwide.

For more than nineteen years, Trashy Diva has provided customers with vintage flair and classic style. Original and vintage-inspired designs in dresses by Candice Gwinn suit a modern sensibility with a focus on creating feminine styles that flatter a variety of body types, from size 0 through 20.

Select styles are also available up to a size 24.

This month, ring in the New Year with Trashy Diva’s new Victory Floral and 1920s-inspired flapper dresses, The Shimmy or The Zelda.

From bustiers to burlesque, Trashy Diva now offers the ultimate party experience for your closest group of girlfriends.

Celebrating a bachelorette or birthday party? Hosting an afterhours event at a Trashy Diva Lingerie Boutique can make for a memorable night of fun and entertainment. Shop online or find more info at TrashyDiva.com or call 504-299-3939.

When you have been designing and creating original jewelry for over forty years like the designers at Symmetry Jewelers, you often see trends repeat themselves. The preference of the color of the precious metal, the delicacy or boldness and size of the piece, and other factors of design can even change several times within a generation.

The popularity of personalized jewelry, using one’s name or initials in the design, has returned several times in Symmetry’s four decades of business. The artisans that design and create the very finest of these pieces available to the market are still working every day in this must-see Riverbend gallery.

Tom Mathis, a master designer and hand engraver, leads a talented staff of experienced jewelers. Cipher monogram designs are a Mathis specialty. A new collection of “shadowbox” monogram designs combining gold and silver add a new refreshing twist to the classic monograms still handmade at Symmetry Jewelers and Designers.

Start your tradition at SymmetryJewelers.com or by calling 504-861-9925 or 800-628-3711.

Donald J Pliner officially opened its doors at The Shops at Canal Place this past August with a full assortment of luxury footwear, handbags, jewelry and accessories. Many shoppers may recall the pre-existing boutique, St. Germain, that sold a wide assortment of the Donald J Pliner brand for nearly 30 years. While the store has changed names, shoppers can still find the fashionable footwear they’ve grown to love, as well as the same incredible jewelry from brands like Mizuki and Ray Griffiths.

To start the year off on the right foot, Donald J Pliner is wishing everyone a Happy Shoe Year by offering an extra 35 percent off sale styles. The store also hosts events throughout the year to preview collections before they are available anywhere else. To find your go-to pair for 2016, shop Donald J Pliner at The Shops at Canal Place or call 504-522-1720 for a personal appointment.

Food & Drink It’s Carnival time! Before or after the parades, stop by any of the Tropical Isles, home of the Hand Grenade®, New Orleans’ Most Powerful Drink®. Also, enjoy a Hand Grenade at Funky Pirate Blues Club or Bayou Club. Experience Trop Rock, Cajun/Zydeco, and the Blues with Tropical Isle’s nightly entertainment – the best on Bourbon. State-of-the-art sound systems plus great live bands will keep you dancing the night away at Tropical Isle Bourbon, Tropical Isle Original, Little Tropical Isle, Funky Pirate and the Bayou Club. While you’re there, ask about the new Hand Grenade® Martini! Enjoy big screen TV’s at Funky Pirate, Bayou Club, Tropical Isle Bourbon and Top of the Trop. For more on Tropical Isle, visit TropicalIsle.com.

For a quiet escape, visit local favorite The Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro right off of Bourbon at 720 Orleans Ave., which has more than 200 varieties of wine by the bottle and plenty of wine by the glass, plus a Bacon Happy Hour! For sample menus and wine lists, visit OrleansGrapevine.com.

Carnival season arrives this month, which means King Cakes are back in season! In celebration of King’s Day and the beginning of Carnival, Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group is celebrating with a variety of King Cake-inspired creations.

At Brennan’s, enjoy the decadent Carnival Cream Cake comprised of layers of festive purple, green and gold hazelnut cake with cream cheese mousse filling, a side of cinnamon ice cream and topped with praline sauce. Ralph’s on the Park offers a “Cocktail for a Cause” each month to benefit various organizations, and January’s cocktail will be the King Cake Martini, benefitting UNITY of Greater New Orleans. The cocktail consists of New Orleans Spiced Rum, Butterscotch Schnapps, Dr. McGillicuddy’s Raw Vanilla Schnapps and cream. Café b will celebrate during Sunday Brunch with King Cake Pancakes, three extra-large cinnamon pancakes topped with carnival sugar and drizzled with in-house Creole cream cheese.

For information and reservations, visit BrennansNewOrleans.com, RalphsonthePark.com and cafeb.com.

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The Bombay Club and Martini Bar at the Prince Conti Hotel in the French Quarter is waiting for you this winter. Bartender Blake Kaiser shares an exciting mix of unique and extensive bar offerings, including more than two dozen martinis, as well as a full selection of wines and other libations. Come cozy up with a good drink and a delicious bite from the new menu. Small bites such as pork belly tacos, fried Brussels sprouts, boudin Scotch eggs, and braised lamb top the list.

Large bites include seared Gulf fish, hunter’s-style chicken, charred hanger steak and rabbit pot pie. Join friends in the lounge for live music nightly. Enjoy classic jazz, modern jazz, Latin jazz, New Orleans jazz, solo piano or swing.

King Cake Lost Bread from Red Gravy

For more information on the Bombay Club and Martini Bar and its signature drinks or dinner menu, visit BombayClubNewOrleans.com or call 504-577-2237 to make reservations.

What began as the dream of a 10-year-old Italian girl from northern New Jersey is now one of America’s Top 100 Brunches and located right in New Orleans. Red Gravy, named for its famous house-made tomato sauce, is cozy Italian lunch and brunch spot in the midst of the CBD at 125 Camp St. Owner Roseann Melisi Rostoker is passionate about food, life, love and New Orleans, which is evident in her cuisine and in her locally and responsibly sourced ingredients. Whether it’s the sweet Cannoli Pancakes you crave or the savory Polpetta omelet with meatball and ricotta, Red Gravy’s menu offerings satisfy every palate. New items include flatbread pizza and decadent liege waffles imported from Belgium.

Red Gravy’s Italian-food fanatics can find classics like the homemade lasagna on the brunch menu as well, and live music accompanies the meal on weekends.

Guests can purchase Roseann’s red gravy, bolognese, homemade jams and preserves, and handmade pottery, including olive oil plates, at the restaurant. View the menu and learn more at RedGravyCafe.com. The restaurant is available for private functions, and catering and take-out are available as well.

Five Happiness, New Orleans’s award-winning Chinese restaurant, offers a delicious menu of Sichuan and Hunan 124

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specialties in a recently renovated sleek and elegant dining room. Enjoy the succulent shrimp with honey-roasted pecans, General’s Chicken or asparagus sautéed with garlic sauce in a comfortable and unique setting distinguished by its authentic Chinese décor of etched glass and Chinese paintings. The dining room, now split into three rooms, provides a more private dining experience for guests.

The well-known and affordable Imperial Room is available at Five Happiness for private parties, receptions or other functions and can hold from 50-150 people. Serving options are customized for each party, ranging from sit-down dinners to buffets or cocktails with hors d’oeuvres and prices ranging from $20-$45 per person.

For more information, call 504-482-3935 or visit FiveHappiness.com.

Located in the Lower Garden District and just blocks from Downtown New Orleans, Hoshun Restaurant delivers a flavorful punch of pan-Asian flavors with their own take on traditional dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam and other South-Asian countries.

Popular menu items include pho soup and Vietnamese spring rolls, pad Thai, sushi, General Tso’s Chicken, Hunan steak, Kung Pao shrimp and more. Open daily until 2 a.m., Hoshun is a favorite late-night spot for locals and visitors alike. Diners can look forward to the addition of sharable small plates to the menu in the near future.

Whether you’re looking for seafood, steak or vegetarian fare, Hoshun’s extensive menu provides options for everyone.

Salt & Pepper Shrimp and Ahi Tuna Seared are a couple of Hoshun’s seafood specialties, while Butter Pepper Mignon offers a meatier possibility.

For menu and information, visit HoshunRestaurant.com or call 504-302-9716. Located at 1601 St. Charles Ave., Hoshun offers a private party room overlooking the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line fitting 25-70 people.

Arts & Entertainment

French Quarter Phantoms has been named one of TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Ghost Tours in the World. For skeptics and believers alike, this tour is the perfect way to enjoy an evening in the French Quarter. Family-friendly fun for locals and visitors, the tours begin at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. nightly. St. Louis #1 Cemetery tours run twice daily. All French Quarter Phantoms tours come with a Buy One Get One Free Hurricane drink special!

Don’t miss their newest tour, Music of New Orleans: Listen and Learn. Join tour guides and curious locals and visitors to hear some of New Orleans most historically important music. Walk or dance if you like, and learn about the city’s musicians and composers and what inspires them. The Music of New Orleans: Listen and Learn tour runs at 3 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

Online discounts are available at FrenchQuarterPhantoms.com.

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Fulton Alley takes fun seriously. Part game parlor, part restaurant and part bar, Fulton Alley has gathered all of the elements of a great time – delicious food, great drinks and the world’s finest games – so you can get comfortable, escape the real world, and focus on what moves you. Challenge your friends to darts, board games and foosball in the newly renovated Game Parlor or perfect your bocce, shuffleboard, chess or bowling game. There’s joy in every dirty stare, every high five and every celebratory yell.

With classic décor, a lineup of curated beers and cocktails and a menu that’s balanced perfectly between classic and cutting-edge, Fulton Alley is the perfect place to turn any visit into a special occasion. In the mood for a snack? The handcut fries or crispy Andouille “tots” are perfect precursors for the Pepperjack Stuff Burger or Pork Belly Sliders. From bachelor parties to gala receptions, their flexible facility can scale to your group’s unique needs with an in-house kitchen and craft bar offer unmatched catering options.

For more information or to schedule an event, visit FultonAlley.com or call 504-208-5569.

Travel

Newly opened in October, Degas Gallery is one of the latest arrivals on famous Julia Street and the dream of art historian Cybèle T. Gontar, who has returned home to open the gallery and to teach New Orleans art history at Tulane University.

On prominent Julia row, Degas Gallery is housed inside an 1832 townhouse complete with original cypress doors and boasting its own artful architecture. According to Gontar, the gallery is a celebration of both the city and of French Impressionist Edgar Degas, whose work influences the painterly, curated exhibitions by Gontar.

“Degas is one of my very favorite artists – I love the works he produced here, especially ‘A Cotton Office in New Orleans.’

The works exhibited are meant to evoke his aesthetic in one form or another,” says Gontar.

Currently on view through Jan. 15 is Flower Power, which features the floral-focused works of Marcia Holmes, Cathy Trione, Delores Justus, Susan Morosky, Rhenda Saporito and others. On Jan. 16, Degas Gallery will premier an exhibition highlighting Carnival season. Degas Gallery is located at 604 Julia St. and open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Visit TheDegasGallery.com or call 504-826-9744 for more information.

Real Estate

Opening Jan. 20, the Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane University presents “Andrea Dezsö: I Wonder and Kate Clark: Mysterious Presence.” Each artist challenges notions of traditional “feminine” crafts to explore current concerns such as the environment, child labor, and women’s rights.

The show reflects the museum’s new mission of presenting original exhibitions that explore socially engaged art, civic dialogue and community transformation. As an entity of an academic institution, the museum utilizes the frameworks of diverse disciplines in conceptualizing and interpreting art and design.

The museum is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more at NewcombArtMuseum.tulane.edu or call 504-865-5328. The museum and its programs are free and open to the public.

Southeast Louisiana travelers know all too well the overreliance on long road travel and lengthy, expensive layovers when traveling throughout the Gulf and Mid-South regions.

After years in the making, business and leisure travelers now have a quality and economical alternative to reach Shreveport, Little Rock, Arkansas, and Memphis, Tennessee.

New Orleans-based, New Orleans-owned GLO addresses travelers’ needs by offering daily, non-stop air service between these cities and Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY).

Leisure travelers will be able to enjoy more of their time with friends and family in these three destination cities, while business travelers can depart in the morning, complete a full day of meetings, and still arrive home in time for dinner. In order to introduce New Orleanians to their hometown air service provider, GLO is offering $99 one-way, GLOforIT fares on all flights through Feb. 1, 2016.

Book your non-stop flight today at FlyGLO.com.

Bakery Village is New Orleans’ newest luxury custom singlefamily house subdivision, located at the site of the former Turnbull Bakery. Bakery Village sits in the heart of the historic Irish Channel, adjacent to the Garden District and less than a mile from the Warehouse District and the Central Business District. Bakery Village is within walking distance of several schools, neighborhood parks and Magazine Street’s great shopping, restaurants and hangouts. Homeowners may also enjoy views of the river and the downtown skyline.

Because of Irish Channel’s close proximity to the Mississippi River, it’s located on “high ground” and above sea level. The area didn’t flood in Hurricane Katrina, and because of this, residential homes in Irish Channel are in high-demand. Lots that are ready to build and quality houses for sale are hard to find in Uptown New Orleans, and Bakery Village is pleased to offer you your next home or investment.

For more information on Bakery Village, visit BakeryVillageNOLA.com.

Realty Point NOLA is a boutique brokerage that provides personal attention and service with cutting-edge marketing and excellent customer service. Its team of agents works together to make every transaction as seamless as possible.

The belief at Realty Point NOLA is that home ownership is the key to a successful community. By keeping on the pulse of this ever-changing market, agents are able to provide the best service available to each and every client.

The dedicated and knowledgeable real estate agents of Realty Point NOLA can provide you with the information necessary to make the right decision. A combination of unique market knowledge and excellent negotiating skills enable Realty Point NOLA’s agents to get you the optimal price for any property you plan to buy or sell.

Trust is hard to come by in today’s fiercely competitive market. Realty Point NOLA is here to provide you with the professionalism and integrity needed to ensure that you feel secure in what can be one of the biggest decisions of your life.

If you have questions, visit RealtyPointNOLA.com or call 504-312-9768.

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Woldenberg Village Veterans Day Flagpole dedication

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Aging Parents Active Seniors

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e all want to live long and healthy lives, but doing so means making great lifestyle choices, which is especially true as we age. There are experts available to help guide you through an age-defying regimen, and the Greater New Orleans area has a myriad of resources for seniors and their families.

In New Orleans there’s ample opportunity to keep aging parents and active seniors going strong, from social communities and exercise classes, to premier physician care and innovative products, such as custom footwear. The following contains information about various retirement homes, assisted living communities, hospice care, legal planning and more, all of which are equipped to help offer peace of mind, stability and solutions to common problems faced by older adults in the community.

Assisted Living & Hospice Care There are many reasons an individual may need help around the home, and help can easily be found with Right at Home’s in-home care and assistance. Whether a family member needs help with tasks around the home, assistance recovering from a hospital stay or someone to simply check in on them throughout the week, Right at Home of Metro New Orleans has the ability to assist in a number of scenarios. Visit MetroNewOrleansRAH.com to view common scenarios of the universal challenges of aging that many families experience and see what kinds of services 126

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may benefit you and your family. You can also complete a short Care Assessment that allows Right at Home the ability to tailor care to your needs with personalized suggestions. Right at Home Caregivers are specially trained to provide just the services your loved one needs. Caregivers modify the care plan for your family member as needs change, allowing them to live at home as long as possible, which gives you peace of mind knowing your loved one is receiving quality care, right in their own home. For more information, visit MetroNewOrleansRAH.com or call 504-780-8128.

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Home Care Solutions offers highly personalized caregiver services and Geriatric Care Management services to help loved ones in the Greater New Orleans area extend their independence. Locally owned and operated since 1991 by licensed social workers, Home Care Solutions has specific expertise in dignified, compassionate Alzheimer’s care.

All home care services begin with a professional assessment visit. A care manager then designs a plan of care tailored to the client’s needs while incorporating family input.

Carefully selected and trained caregivers provide assistance with activities of daily living and companionship, supported by routine care manager supervisory visits. Many clients need additional Care Management services and support beyond home care. These services provide peace of mind for out-of-town families and include exploring the options and costs of elder care services in the area, attending medical appointments with clients and reporting back to family members, coordinating legal and financial referrals and managing crisis situations. Home Care Solutions is a member of the Home Care Association of America and the Aging Life Care Association. Home Care Solutions is also a licensed Personal Care Attendant Agency. For more information call 504-82800900 or visit HomeCareNewOrleans.com.

The caring team at Canon Hospice is dedicated to a hospice ministry that helps patients and families accept terminal illness positively and resourcefully. They strive for compassionate and dignified care for the terminally ill, and their stated goal is to “allow our patients to live each day to the fullest and enjoy their time with family and friends.”

With special expertise in pain management and symptom control, Canon Hospice designs individualized plans of care for each patient based on their unique needs. Home Based Services provide doctors, nurses, social workers, pastoral care and volunteers. For patients with more intensive symptom management needs, Canon has an Inpatient Hospice Unit.

This unit provides 24-hour care in a home-like environment where patients are permitted to Communities receive visits at any hour. For more information, visit CanonHospice.com or call 504-818-2723.

House Call Physicians As our parents age, getting them to a doctor requires tremendous effort and may seem impossible. For those who struggle with mobility and chronic illness, the convenient and reputable services of NOLA Doc provide a vital solution.

Offering urgent and primary care, palliative care, hospital consultations, care coordination, IV therapy and more, NOLA Doc physicians are dedicated to keeping patients safe and healthy at home.

“Dr. Berenson took his time to listen to my mother’s concerns,” a patient’s son said about NOLA Doc. “He had a genuine interest in making her feel better and was able to provide immediate relief. She felt like someone really cared about her.”

Board-certified physicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and travel throughout the Greater New Orleans area. To make an appointment, call 504-383-3828 or visit NolaDoc.com to learn more.

Legal Planning Blue Williams, LLP has been providing high-quality representation to clients throughout the Gulf South in commercial litigation, healthcare and construction law and business matters since 1982. By recruiting motivated and experienced attorneys in diverse areas of law, Blue Williams is able to provide a full spectrum of services and create lasting solutions to the legal dilemmas faced by clients.

The firm’s attorneys practice in 17 areas of law, including Commercial Litigation, Estate and Tax Planning, Disability and Elder Law Planning, Corporate Law, Healthcare Law, Construction Litigation, Insurance Law, Products and Professional Liability and more. Blue Williams has a history of rising to the challenge and has defended clients in multi-million dollar exposure cases. The firm provides services to clients nationally, though primarily in Louisiana, and these clients range from Fortune 500 companies to international corporations, local businesses and individuals.

Attorneys spend a significant amount of time with each client to be certain of the client’s individual needs and all available options. For more information on Blue Williams’s commitment to providing lasting solutions, visit BlueWilliams.com or call 800-326-4991.

Innovative Healthcare Resources & Products Even in older age, walking doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. With more than 25 different arch support styles and 350 arch support sizes, Good Feet® products offer individualized comfort solutions for your foot pain. Good Feet’s custom arch supports are personally fitted to relieve various foot ailments, including plantar fasciitis, and certain types of back pain. When visiting the Good Feet store, a certified arch support specialist personally assists you to find the arch support that properly fits your unique foot and mobile lifestyle. Through a complimentary personal consultation, Good Feet specialists take into account the kind of shoes you like to wear, your daily activities, the length and height of your arch, as well as the level of support that feels most comfortable to you. Visit one of Good Feet’s three metro area locations, the French Quarter location at 539 Bienville St., 504-875-2929; the Uptown location at 5525 Magazine St., 504-324-7718; or the Metairie location at 3000 Severn Ave., 504-888-7080. For hours and information or to schedule a fitting, visit NolaShoes.com.

It is currently estimated that nearly 85,000 people in Louisiana are affected by dementia, which is why it’s important to speak with a specialized physician if you or your loved ones are showing any early warning signs. You may notice memory loss, personality or mood changes, sadness or anxiety. The Neuroscience Institute at Ochsner Health System is dedicated to helping patients differentiate between normal memory loss and the types of cognitive impairment associated with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive conditions.

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and diagnostic tools needed to care for a range of cognitive conditions. To schedule a physician appointment, call 866624-7637 or visit Ochsner.org/services/neurosciences.

of care community with dementia care and an adult day program in the Greater New Orleans Area. For more information, visit PoydrasHome.com or call 504-897-0535.

The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Their mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

Their vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. While the Alzheimer’s Association is a national organization, they offer help on a local level, too. Community Resource Finder, Alz. org/crf is a place that you can find support groups, programs, events and community services from at-home care to medical services. There are a variety of resources available to help those living with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.

At ALZ.org, you can also find ways to personally help end the disease by becoming a champion for the cause. For additional help or guidance, call their 24/7 Helpline at 800272-3900.

Touro’s Woldenberg Village is one of the region’s premier healthcare and retirement communities, located just minutes from downtown New Orleans. Offering quality care and an engaging lifestyle across the full spectrum of senior living, residents in the community experience independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care.

As a premier Touro Retirement Community specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia, aging loved ones at Woldenberg are comfortably accommodated with more than 120 skilled nursing beds, 60 assisted living apartments and 60 independent living apartment homes on 18 acres of land.

The campus is pet-friendly and features group transportation for activities, errands and appointments, housekeeping and laundry service, meals served daily in a community dining area and private dining for small gatherings or family visits.

From 24-hour emergency response system to short-term rehabilitation and in-patient hospice services, loved ones are kept safe and healthy at Woldenberg Village. To learn more or to schedule a tour, call 504-367-5640.

Dr. Alvaro Alonso of the Tulane University Heart and Vascular Institute is a leading vascular and interventional cardiology specialist in our region. He specializes in vascular medicine and vein care, including endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins. The procedure works by eliminating the faulty vein and diverting blood flow to nearby functional veins, significantly reducing the symptoms of varicose veins and improving the surface appearance of your legs.

With varicose veins being extremely common in older aged patients, this minimally invasive laser procedure can reportedly have a success rate of nearly 98 percent. The treatment is a same-day outpatient procedure, which is done under local anesthesia: A laser fiber is inserted into the faulty vein and delivers a precise dose of energy, collapsing its walls and allowing the diversion of blood return into the adjacent functioning veins, thereby improving the varicosities and their symptoms. Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately. Call 504-378-5080 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alonso or visit TulaneHeart.com to learn more.

Retirement Communities Located on three acres in scenic Uptown New Orleans, Poydras Home is a continuing care retirement community that has been serving the needs of the local area since 1817.

Poydras Home is known nationally for its quality of care and innovative programs that allow their residents to enjoy life to the fullest in a beautiful and historic setting. Poydras Home offers a full continuum of care consisting of Garden House (independent living), Oak House (assisted living), the Historic House (nursing care) and PHASE (adult day program). All rooms are private and overlook beautifully landscaped grounds.

Poydras Home’s state-of-the-art memory support areas, Seasons and Hunter House, provide unparalleled services with unique individualized activities and a secured outdoor garden and walking path. Poydras Home’s professional and committed caring staff delivers compassionate, quality supportive services. From independent living to highly individualized care, Poydras Home is the only full continuum 128

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When it comes to aging well, Lambeth House, a full-service retirement center, offers the best of all worlds: independent living for active adults (ages 62+) plus a full continuum of care, including Assisted Living, Nursing Care and Memory Care. Lambeth House is proud to offer public access (for ages 55+) to its recently opened Fitness Center. Nestled in the heart of Uptown New Orleans, Lambeth House offers a cultural program committed to enrichment of the mind, body and spirit. The full array of amenities for active seniors includes the new fitness center with a stunning indoor, salt-water swimming pool, an art studio, meditation room and garden, fine and casual dining options and engaging activities and social events. In the words of one resident, “There is something to do here all day, every day, if you want to.” “Today’s new generation of retirees want choices. They want to be active and to age well,” says President/CEO, Scott Crabtree. At Lambeth House, residents do just that. For more information, call 504-865-1960.

The Landing at Behrman Place, managed by Sunshine Retirement Living, is a warm and welcoming community on the scenic West Bank of New Orleans and voted Best Senior Living this year by SeniorAdvisor.com. The Landing is just minutes from the French Quarter, shopping, restaurants and healthcare, and has an on-site salon, library and a computer center. Residents are provided with transportation, housekeeping, home maintenance and 24/7 onsite staff.

Residents can enjoy a multitude of activities such as bell choir, chorale, games and exercise classes. This month, The Landing will be serving a scrumptious Waffle Breakfast Buffet featuring Mimosas for $10. Starting on January 2, the buffet will be open every Saturday from 8:30-10 a.m. If you are craving something sweet, the Happy Landing Cafe is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and features fresh baked cookies, pasties, fruit, coffee and more. All are also welcome to indulge in Happy Hour every first Friday of the month starting at 3 p.m. For more info on these delicious deals, call 504208-2080, or visit TheLandingRet.com and Facebook.com/ LandingatBehrmanPlace. •

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Healthcare Spotlight: Pain Management

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ometimes, pain can be a small annoyance – a dull headache, a paper cut, a crick in the neck.

At other times, though, pain can be a debilitating hindrance to normal life, especially in chronic situations.

Suffering from chronic pain can lead to other health problems and depression, and securing a diagnosis can feel as overwhelming as the pain itself. It is important to find a health

expert you can trust to help navigate the process and find the healing you seek. A variety of treatments exist, from medicine to surgery to minimally invasive procedures, and knowing your body and your options is an integral part in deciding what might work best for you. If you or someone you know is experiencing pain, the following area healthcare provider may be able to help.

Southern Pain & Neurological is excited to introduce a revolutionary, minimally invasive needle treatment for herniated discs to their practice with the HydroDiscectomy, an outpatient alternative to traditional back surgery. The procedure uses a high-speed water-jet stream to remove herniated disc tissue, relieving the nerve pressure that causes back and leg pain. The advantages of using water include no hospitalization, fast recovery, no incision, less pain, no bone removal, no trauma to back muscles and no general anesthesia. The entire procedure takes 20 minutes on average. Most patients will be able to return to work in about one to four weeks.

The doctors at Southern Pain & Neurological Consultants know that chronic pain is a prison, keeping those who suffer from it trapped and unable to do the things they want to do. The stress from pain and lack of freedom can negatively affect personalities, too. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, contact the Southern Pain clinic and find out if the HydroDiscectomy or another treatment is right for you.

For information and scheduling at the Metairie, Marrero and Covington offices, call (800) 277-1265.

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TRY THIS

See NOMA’s Collection of American Art in New Exhibition New Orleans Museum of Art: 1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, 658-4100, NOMA.org Georgia O’Keeffe and Jackson Pollock sit alongside lesser-known artists from the South and West like Alfred Boisseau and Sam Francis in “Visions of US,” a current exhibition at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Drawing on works from the 18th through 20th centuries, it celebrates cultural diversity and the multitude of people and perspectives that make up our view of the United States. The show, which continues until Jan. 24, 2016, draws from NOMA’s world-class collection of American art, bringing together paintings, sculptures, photography and decorative arts.

A. RenÉe Boutique Opens in French Quarter A. Renée Boutique, 824 Chartres St., 299-3965 A new boutique has opened in the French Quarter for women who “dress to kill.”

Commenting, owner April Posch says, “I am creating A. Renée Boutique for us local women who still have it going on. We carry a smoking hot fashion palette that is unique, elegant and sexy with a little funk.

Styles come in the softest fabrics with a lot of color and in sizes from XS to SL.” Shoes are made in Brazil and Italy so they are comfortable as well as “very sexy.”

– Mirella Cameran

Hanging Ten

City Surf Fitness gives you a full-body workouT

By Sarah Ravits

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y first attempt at surfing in California turned out to be a multi-tasking adventure in which I simultaneously tried to avoid throwing up saltwater, losing my bathing suit and drowning. A few months after my return to New Orleans, City Surf Fitness, a boutique studio that started in Dallas, opened on Magazine Street. I felt compelled to get back on the board from the safety of dry land, partially because I wanted to switch up my workout routine and also because I vowed to myself that my next surfing adventure would be more successful.

Florida native Becky Hardin co-owns the studio with Michael Angle. “I’m majority owner and I manage the studio, but he has a small business entrepreneur background, so we’ve had a great partnership,” she says. “I have a background in marketing, events and social media, so we really have a good balance and each plays an important role in the company without stepping on each other’s toes.”

Hardin decided to open City Surf here after visiting her good friend Mitchell Brown, who started the business in Dallas “Mitch took surfboards and created a really awesome brand around them and built the fitness program,” says Hardin.

“I knew about the Dallas location for a while, so on a trip out there I finally took a class and just fell in love with the workout.”

In New Orleans, City Surf offers six classes: City Surf, Beach Body Bootcamp and City Surf Circuits, which are cardio-based and designed to make you sweat, while the Big Kahuna focuses on strength-training, using resistance bands and a 10-pound sand bell. Then there’s Buddha Board, which is yoga-inspired; and Pipeline, which focuses on toning and small-ballet-inspired movements. My coworkers and I took the signature City Surf class, and while we wobbled on the boards a little bit at first, by the second go-around, we felt much more stable and strong.

Says Hardin, “I think with people moving to the city from all over, there’s a demand for fitness concepts that transplants are used to having elsewhere. It’s great to see the city embrace these concepts and learn how to balance its partying with being healthy … City Surf is approachable for all fitness levels and it’s a really fun workout, too.”

Information, 5924 Magazine St., 281-4174, CitySurfFitness.com. n cheryl gerber photos

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Election Night at the Monteleone By errol laborde

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orking his way through the crowded ballroom, the old man approached the stage to which he had been invited. There was a problem though. So many people were offered a spot on the platform that wristbands had been distributed. The old man had none. An official in the crowd who didn’t know who the old man had stopped him. If only the intervening authority knew that this particular man, through the decades, had been on the stage at the Monteleone Hotel several times. Back then everyone knew who he was.

Moments later the crowd in the hotel’s La Nouvelle Orleans ballroom erupted with cheers as John Bel Edwards, who that eve-

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ning had been elected governor of Louisiana, approached center stage, The governor-elect thanked family and friends, and told about how special the Monteleone had been in his personal history. In 1927, Bel Edwards told the crowd, his grandfather had run for sheriff of Tangipahoa Parish. On the afternoon of Election Day, he and his wife drove to New Orleans to stay in the Monteleone. The next morning, the new governor continued, “his grandfather bought a copy of The Times-Picayune to see if he had won.”

Besides sanctioning a future governor’s grandfather’s election, there were many big stories in The Times-Picayune in 1927, the biggest being the Great Flood that devastated the state and flooded towns along the rivers and bayous. There was so much suffering that year that the mood was right for a populist who would promise to fix things for the little people. In ’27 little-known Huey Long, a state Public Service Commissioner, was plotting his gubernatorial campaign, which would lead to his election in ’28.

Long would tax the oil industries and build a state government that provided free services. His innovations included what would be known as the Charity Hospital system, a model for staterun free care. Among those that the new governor thanked that night was his mom, who had been a “Charity Hospital nurse who taught us all about compassion for our fellow human beings.”

Also in 1927, in the town of Marksville, a future governor was born. His name was Edwin Edwards, and he would be raised in the formative years of Huey Long’s populism. Edwards would be elected four times – more than any other governor. He was a bit of a scoundrel and very much an achiever. All of his election nights were spent at the Monteleone. It didn’t take long for someone to recognize Edwin Edwards as the guest without a wristband, and he was quickly escorted to the stage. Though he and the new governor share the same last name, they are not related. Their common bond was in being Democrats in a land of Republicans.

For the former governor, the night presented one more opportunity to share in the hurrah from the stage at the Monteleone.

During Edwin Edwards’s day his election night suite was No. 1450. This night it belonged to John Bel Edwards, though rest would be slow in coming. By 3 a.m. the victor was ready to retire, but some West Point buddies reminded him of a promise he had to keep. JBE and pals went to the rooftop terrace where they smoked cigars to celebrate the evening. According to a story

by Tyler Bridges of The New Orleans Advocate, they were there until around 4 a.m.

Once can only imagine what it must have been like at that moment, to have just won a long-shot election and to be governorelect. Below, the noises from the French Quarter, even at this late hour, could still be heard. In the distance were the skyline and the lights from bridges. Nearby is the mighty river that flooded in ’27, but that’s now tamed so that it can better channel the nation’s commerce. Downriver was the site where Andy Jackson defeated the British. Standing guard over it all is the magnificent steeple of the St. Louis Cathedral.

Between puffs, the governor elect might have sensed the history that surrounded him. Now he was part of it. n

ARTHUR NEAD ILLUSTRATION