New Orleans Magazine March 2015

MARCH 2015

myneworleans.com

$4.95

– ions ut p solTV. el f-h YES sel , on W vel all ra , t it’s sic u M

MARCH 2015 / VOLUME 49 / NUMBER 3 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 SALES MANAGER Kate Sanders (504) 830-7216 / Kate@MyNewOrleans.com Senior Account Executive Jonée Daigle Ferrand Account Executives Sarah Daigle, Lauren Lavelle, Lisa Picone Love

Production/web Manager Staci McCarty Production Designers Monique DiPietro, Antoine Passelac, Ali Sullivan traffic manager Erin Duhe 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 Distribution Manager John Holzer Administrative Assistant Denise Dean SUBSCRIPTIONS Sara Kelemencky 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

MyNewOrleans.com

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

Subscription rates: one year $19.95; Mexico, South America and Canada $48; Europe, Asia and Australia $75. An associate subscription to New Orleans Magazine is available by a contribution of $40 or more to WYES-TV/Channel 12, $10.00 of which is used to offset the cost of publication. Also available electronically, on CD-ROM and on-line. Periodicals postage paid at Metairie, LA, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to New Orleans Magazine, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright 2015 New Orleans Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark New Orleans and New Orleans Magazine are registered. New Orleans Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

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

68 FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

ON THE COVER

54

This bud’s for you

Our spring guide to gardening

By R. Stephanie Bruno

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60

A Guide to Coasting

Twenty “to-dos” along the Gulf

By Cheré Coen

68

Best new local architecture

Our annual feature makes a house call

By John P. Klingman

Ever wonder whether you should plant alyssum in full sun or pansies in shade? Or what kind of mulch to use or how much to water? For all this and more, check out our spring guide to gardening, beginning on pg. 54.

INSIDE “Last of the Mirlitons”

16 speaking out

Editorial, plus a Mike Luckovich cartoon 18

JULIA STREET Questions and answers about our city

143 Try This

“Taking a Haunted History Tour” 144 STREETCAR

“Getting Back from Broadway”

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Photographed by Eugenia Uhl

contents

22

THE BEAT 22

MARQUEE

Entertainment calendar

24

PERSONA

Actor Brenda Currin

50

82

LOCAL COLOR

THE MENU

38

IN TUNE

80

“Carnival to Jazz Fest: Music for the in-between”

40

Read & Spin

table talk “Fun With Falafel”

82 restaurant insider

A look at the latest albums and books

Q&C Hotel/Bar, Brown Butter and Wood Pizza Bistro and Tap House

26

Biz

“Back to El Futuro: Local businesses look toward Cuba”

42

JAZZ LIFE

84

28

education

Food

“Where the Hip Cats Meet: Original Tuxedo does the standards”

“Cooking for the Season: Lenten whole fish and veggies”

“Help for College Students”

44

MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS

86

LAST CALL

30

HEALTH

“What you need for a good hospital to do its good works”

46

32

HEALTHBEAT

The latest news in health from New Orleans and beyond

34

CRIME FIGHTING

“Polling the Police”

“Survival: A night in the woods”

Joie d’Eve

88

CHRONICLES

“Hometown ‘Mad Man’: Bauerlein and the local P.R. biz”

50

HOME

DINING GUIDE

“Back to Our World”

48

The Irish Tea Party

Monique Chauvin’s “Forever Home”

DIAL 12 D1 This March brings a wide variety of fabulous programming to WYES-TV! Don’t miss musical specials with favorite stars from the past such as the Everly Brothers, Justin Hayward, John Denver and more ... and be sure to watch newcomers to PBS, the vocal trio the Bala Brothers and Italian tenor Pasquale Esposito. Discover travel secrets from everyone’s favorite travel guru Rick Steves and learn ways to get your finances in check with Suze Orman. WYES will also air the three-part, six-hour documentary presented by Ken Burns “Cancer: The Emperor of All Maladies” beginning Mon., March 30 at 8 p.m. Based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning book, this series covers cancer’s first appearances and the battles to cure, control and conquer the disease. And don’t miss WYES’ next exciting event! Join WYES for this year’s gala: “Downton Day at the Races” on Thurs., April 9, at the New Orleans Fair Grounds. The fundraising gala promises to be a fine affair that brings generations of partygoers together for a “Roaring Twenties” good time! For all WYES program and event information, visit wyes.org.

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inside

Last of the Mirlitons

M

y father worked for City Park so it was only natural that he would have an interest in gardening. He even belonged to a group called the Men’s Camellia Club. (My mom also belonged to a garden club, so we had the whole floral activist scene covered.) For most of my growing up years I regarded a garden as a strip of land from which weeds had to be pulled, often under duress, frequently on a Saturday afternoon. To me the only positive about gardens were sightings of doddle bugs and worms, neither of which would ever make me worthy of the Camellia Club.

In this issue, with its emphasis on gardens and homes, I recall that my father, during his retirement years, did some gardening around the house, but there was one project that literally towered overall: his mirliton trellis.

Mirlitons (known in other places as chayotes) once grew wildly in semi-tropical New Orleans. Stuffed mirlitons, packed with shrimp or ground meat, were local delicacies. Now the vegetable is practically an endangered species. There are no records on this, but my father’s backyard may have produced the last great domestic mirliton trellis. With pipe he assembled the trellis, which he found necessary to paint green. He mastered the tricky positioning of the vines, which involved strategically locating male and female ends. As the vines spread, enveloping the trellis, they produced a crop of a few hundred mirlitons every year, Raw mirlitons in such numbers are not easy to give away.

Fortunately my father’s operations also included manufacturing and canning. In the nearby garage was an old stove, and on the stove sat an old pot. My father sliced the mirlitons into slivers to make the universe’s best mirliton pickles. They were crunchy and sweet. The bounty was stored in Mason jars.

One year his crop had been especially big. “Guess what I bought at the grocery today?” he asked me via phone. He laughed as he answered his own question: “Mirlitons.” On canning his last batch he fell a few mirlitons short of a jar full. With his vines depleted he had to get more.

My father was gone by the time of Katrina. He had boasted that the house had been built with double lumber to withstand hurricane winds. That it did, but not the water, which turned the inside into mush and destroyed the backyard. The levee broke along Bellaire Drive just three blocks way from the house. The site of his mirliton industry is now an empty green yard needing to be sold. Maybe one day it can inspire its own pickled creations and be colored with the hue of camellias.

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SPEAKING OUT

The Benson Empire Why the Texans should not inherit it

W

e support Tom Benson in his decision to have his wife, Gayle, inherit ownership of the Saints and the Pelicans. Benson has been a good owner who has built a winning team and wrangled deals with the state that are reviving the neighborhood in the Superdome’s vicinity. Had it not been for Benson, the city might have lost the Saints long ago and would be much poorer because of it.

Gayle Benson is a classy person who has been alongside her husband during some tough times, particularly the aftermath of Katrina. She is not a sports person, but she will bring stability to the front office side of the business. Without her, the two franchises might plummet in talent at the managerial level.

Watching the conflict within Benson’s estranged family has been painful.

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More painful is the thought that the franchises could end up in the hands of people who have not really been a part of the city and whose service to the organization has been minimal. Building and maintaining a thriving city is a battle.

They have not been here for the fight.

That brings us to this point: The Saints exist as a creation of New Orleans hustle, ingenuity and persistence. The franchise is of this city. If anyone should profit from the sports legacy, it should be the fans that supported the team for so long, most often through painful losing seasons.

New Orleans in the 1960s was a city in crisis. As in many cities, migration to the suburbs was intensifying, causing a decline in the tax base just as the cities had to provide for the growing, usually poorer, population. Though New Orleans was respected as a party town and ad-

mired for its port, it was a place that people would want to embrace but not get serious about. New Orleans wanted to have more of a national presence. Both literally and figuratively, it needed to be in a league with the nation’s major cities.

A National Football League franchise could bring such prestige. Until the national Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964, professional sports shunned the Deep South. Once the bill became law, changes began. Most prized was an NFL franchise. It was understood that Atlanta would be the first to get an expansion team. New Orleans, it was thought, could be next.

Doing so was not easy. Local visionary Dave Dixon, an antiques dealer by trade, led the campaign for a franchise and a domed stadium. He got the support of Governor John McKeithen, who risked backing among his northern Louisiana constituents by actively supporting the dome. U.S. Senator Russell Long and Congressman Hale Boggs helped the NFL with legal needs in Washington, particularly in matters of antitrust. New Orleans Mayor Moon Landrieu chaired an often-tempestuous domed stadium commission.

These were the people who made the awarding of an NFL franchise to New Orleans possible. They gave the city expertise and hard work.

Tom Benson is a self-made man from the Gentilly neighborhood. His wife, Gayle, grew up on the West Bank.

Before she met Benson she had already established herself with an interior design business. Both are people who are from and of New Orleans. They struggled to the top and got there by finesse, not through inheritance.

We understand that inheritance is a way of the world and that all of us want some of it, but when it is applied to the Saints the subject is especially touchy. To think that three people, two of whom are domiciled in Texas, want to tap into something that is such a civic cause is maddening.

New Orleans has already made them rich. Cash cows though should not be allowed to roam. n AN ORIGINAL ©MIKE LUCKOVICH CARTOON FOR NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE

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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

Dear Julia, I’m a native New Orleanian who moved to New Iberia with my husband 30 years ago.

Since you can never truly move a New Orleans girl away from her city, we return every five weeks to an apartment we share in the 500 block of Royal Street with friends from “Cajun Country” who also love New Orleans.

Below our apartment are some horse poles that I grew up hearing were where horses were tied up before the invention of cars. I would like to know if these are authentic and, if so, how far back do they date? You see them scattered randomly throughout the French Quarter, so have they been left in the same place for a century or were they placed where they are at some point just for “ambiance”?

Tell Poydras to come roost on our balcony anytime!

Karen Alvarez New Iberia

Karen, Poydras never admits to “roosting” for fear of being called a “rooster.”

As with most things, there’s some truth in what you were told. Yes, in the days before horseless carriages came into vogue, riders did need to tie their animals to something to keep them from wandering away while their owners were busy elsewhere. However, it’s most likely the horse-head hitching posts you see throughout the French Quarter are modern reproductions.

In February 1962, Times-Picayune reporter Howard Jacobs, then writer of the popular “Remoulade” column, informed readers that numerous cast-iron horse-head hitching posts were recently installed throughout the French Quarter. According to Jacobs’ unnamed informant, private owners installed the posts at curbside in order to create barriers to prevent motorists from parking on sidewalks.

Dear Julia, I remember visiting Miss Sunbeam, the Audubon Zoo elephant, when I was a small child in the late 1960s. But wasn’t there another Miss Sunbeam that was at the zoo before my time?

What happened to her?

Rachel Haverham New Orleans

Win a Court of Two Sisters Jazz Brunch

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Here is a chance to eat, drink and listen to music, 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 one of two Jazz Brunch gift certificates for two at The Court of Two Sisters in the Vieux Carré. 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 Alvarez, New Iberia; and Rachel Haverham, New Orleans.

MARCH 2015 / myneworleans.com

Yes, you’re right. There were, indeed, two different Miss Sunbeams, both of who lived at Audubon Zoo in the 1960s. The Holsum Baking Company, maker of Sunbeam brand bread, donated both the original Miss Sunbeam and her successor and namesake to the zoo. The first Miss Sunbeam was formally presented to the zoo in June 1961 and was among the zoo’s most popular attractions for little more than two years.

On July 11, 1963, the young elephant, which had eaten well and appeared to be in good health, was found dead under mysterious circumstances. A necropsy revealed she had hemorrhaged from the stomach and intestines.

A little more than four months after the original Miss Sunbeam’s death, her replacement arrived in the city. In May 1964, Miss Sunbeam II made her official public debut.

Dear Julia and Poydras, I address this letter to the both of you, as this will truly require the absolute best in research and magic. I can only hope that this result qualifies in your pursuit to Eternal Questions in life.

Back in September of 1836 a Commander Charles Edward Hawkins brought his New Texas Navy Ship, the Independence, to your beloved City of New Orleans for retrofitting. Commander Charles Edward Hawkins was the first Commander of the newly formed Texas Navy. The ship was bought as the United States Revenue Cutter Ingham there in New Orleans in 1835.

The Schooner was 125-tons and 89 feet in length with a 40-man crew capacity.

Between September 1836 and February 1837, while living in Mrs. Hale’s boarding house on Canal Street, the Commander (a true Texas Hero) was stricken with smallpox and died. The Commander

was buried on the 12th of February in 1837.

Who was Mrs. Hale? What was her street address? Does the boarding house still stand on Canal Street?

Where was the Commander laid to rest?

Josiah W. Tyson III Beaumont, Texas During the 1830s, New Orleans city directories were not published every year, leading to some pretty big gaps in the historic record.

I searched, without success, for your Mrs. Hale. Although there was an 1837 directory, there was no listing for her, so I cannot begin to speculate about the exact location where her boarding house once stood. It is unlikely the structure still exists.

Commander Charles Edward Harkins was laid to rest in a vault in the old Girod Cemetery, a Protestant burial ground that once stood near the present-day site of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

In the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) surveyed a number of local cemeteries, noting on index cards the inscriptions that appeared on the headstones and closure tablets. According to the WPA cemetery cards, the closure tablet on Hawkins’ vault was noted as having the following inscription: To the memory of HAWKINS Chas. E. Comd. Of the Texian Navy A native of the state of N.Y. Who Died Feb. 11 – 1837 Aged 34 yrs.

“Brave generous and affectionate All who knew him loved him.”

Girod Cemetery was deconsecrated and razed in the late 1950s. n

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the beat MARQUEE

PERS ONA

BI Z

EDU CA TI O N

H EA L TH

C RI M E F I G H T I N G

“I was in my late 40s, and I felt my world getting smaller because of what’s available for actresses as they get older. ... It was a crisis of getting older as an actress, and a desire to learn more about the world in an organized way.”

PERSONA pg. 24

greg miles PHOTOGRAPH

THE BEAT / MARQUEE

OUR TOP PICKS FOR MARCH EVENTS

BY LAUREN LABORDE

Green Party

The Grand Gala

Dirty Waters

After the holidays and Carnival, we can finally settle in and get working on those New Year’s resolutions – but not so fast! There is still St. Patrick’s Day, which New Orleans celebrates with almost equal enthusiasm as it does the parade season before it. There is a parade in almost every part of town: Downtown on March 13 there’s Molly’s at the Market’s annual parade through the French Quarter, which has plenty of walking krewes and riders in carriages. The sizeable Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Club hosts celebrations on March 14 in that neighborhood, with Mass at St. Mary’s Assumption Church followed by a parade. Later that evening, the Italian American Marching Club celebrates another Saint, St. Joseph, with a parade in the CBD. Finishing the celebrations is the big Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade that takes over Metairie on March 22. And then, alas, it’s festival season. Information, StPatricksDayNewOrleans.com

More than just a fundraiser, the Contemporary Art Center’s annual SweetArts event also gives patrons a sneak preview of an offering by the center. At this year’s event on March 20, the CAC is premiering a play from the Massachusetts-based company Double Edge Theatre, The Grand Parade, which depicts big events of the 20th century through circus arts and a surreal, kaleidoscopic lens. Information, CACNO.org

Cult icon John Waters has a connection to New Orleans, having lived here in the 1970s, and certainly his campy, trashy sensibility resonates in this city.

After bringing “A John Waters Christmas” to New Orleans in 2013, he returns March 26 to the Joy Theater for his oneman show, “This Filthy World: Filthier & Dirtier.” Information, TheJoyTheater.com

CALENDAR March 11. United Way’s Got Gumbo? Cook-Off, Royal Sonesta Hotel.

Information, UnitedWaySELA.org

Information, NewOrleansOpera.org

March 13. Friends of City Park’s Lark in the Park, Pavilion of the Two Sisters. Information, FriendsOfCityPark.com

March 21-22. Congo Square New Worlds Rhythm Festival, Lafayette Square. Information, JazzAndHeritage.org/congo-square

March 13 & 15. New Orleans Opera Association presents Lucia di Lammermoor, Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts.

March 21 & 22, 28 & 29. New Orleans Spring Fiesta and Historic

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March 15. Mardi Gras Indians’ Super Sunday

SPOTLIGHT

er of BUKU and Winter Circle Productions, about this year’s festival, March 13-14 at Mardi Gras World, 1400 Port of New Orleans Place.

What’s new with BUKU this year? A few new things

include more and larger art installations, a revamped “Front Yard” area with music, games, expanded seating and craft beverages, rentable lockers, new production elements and merch, some things we’re keeping a secret and, most importantly to a lot of us nerdy festival collectors, cloth wristbands. Besides tons of my favorite artists performing, I’m most excited about the return of the VIP riverboat and to see what surprise, popup street performances are in store this year.

Rave on the River A conversation with Dante DiPasquale

W

ith the recent resurgence of EDM (electronic dance music), most big music festivals have made sure to heavily feature acts of that genre in their lineups.

But not too many festivals showcase EDM in a location befitting it: a warehouse along the Mississippi River housing trippy Mardi Gras floats. The BUKU Music + Art Project, now in its third year, does include EDM artists such as Bassnectar and Porter Robinson, but as in other years there’s hip-hop and indie rock mixed in: A$AP Rocky, Passion Pit, Run the Jewels and TV on the Radio are some of the other acts (see In Tune on pg. 36 for more). We talked to Dante DiPasquale, co-found-

Talk about how the festival has grown since its inception. It’s

grown in its national recognition, it’s grown in its fruitful relationship with the city of New Orleans and it’s grown in its internal organization. But what we’re most proud of is that it hasn’t grown too much and has stayed true to its boutique roots. In an era of the mega festival, BUKU has consciously kept a scaled down, intimate approach that truly pays attention to its branding and the desires of its niche fanbase.

Looking at all the other music festivals in New Orleans, what do you think makes BUKU

different? We’ve been inspired by the other New Orleans festivals for years, and Jazz Fest in particular is one of America’s greatest events, but I think BUKU fills a gap in three main regards. First, it feeds off of the creative, artistic, underground sub-culture of New Orleans, which is imperative to the city’s evolution, and marries it with internationally recognized street and pop culture. Secondly, it recognizes and celebrates a younger demographic who demand an extremely relevant lineup.

And finally, BUKU provides a truly urban experience with its downtown location, concrete setting, views of the city skyline and Crescent City Connection, and its post-industrial train tracks/warehouse/river/ power plant vibe.

Any insider’s tips on how to navigate the festival? BUKU is

located at Mardi Gras World on a sliver in between the Mississippi River and Public Belt Railroad, which not only makes for the sickest festival grounds ever, but also makes it pretty easy to navigate. The stages are close to each other — but no sound bleed due to the indoor/outdoor facility — making it easy to bounce around and catch a little bit of every artists’ performance.

I would just recommend keeping an eye out for the diversity that BUKU tends to attract and to just let the vibe of the day navigate you. n

Home Tours, French Quarter. Information, SpringFiesta.com

HogsForTheCause.org

March 25-29. Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival.

Information, TennesseeWilliams.net

March 28. New Orleans Film Society gala, 1213 Third St. Information, NewOrleansFilmSociety.org

March 27. NOLA FoodFest, French Market. Information, NOLAFoodFest.com

March 29. Louisiana Oyster Jubilee, 300 block of Bourbon Street.

Information, OysterJubilee.com

March 27 & 28. Hogs for the Cause, City Park. Information,

April 4. Crescent City Classic. Information, CCC10K.com

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THE BEAT / PERSONA

her film debut was in the 1967 film adaptation of Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood as the teenage Nancy Clutter, part of the family who was murdered in their Kansas home; later she played “Pooh,” a mute, murderous teen in the comedy-drama The World According to Garp. She quit acting in her 40s to pursue a master’s degree in anthropology, which helped her develop her interest in social justice issues. She is back in New Orleans to play the character Violet Venable in Suddenly Last Summer, which will be performed as part of the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival (March 25-29). I met with Currin the afternoon after her first rehearsal for the show.

Q: How is it when you’re preparing for

Brenda Currin Acting and beyond

BY LAUREN LABORDE

A

ctress Brenda Currin isn’t a New Orleans resident or native, but she’s been here enough to recommend a tiny neighborhood restaurant for our meeting.

She has gotten to know the city well through trips here since 2002, and in ’03 she co-founded What Girls Know, a theater program for adolescent girls that was headquartered at the Contemporary Arts Center. Currin began her career as an actor:

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a role with such strong source material – or a popular movie based on it – to make it your own? [laughs] That’s the challenge, that’s the anxiety and the fun of the role like this. So many people identify it with Katharine Hepburn and have their own idea of who (the character) is. So the only thing I can do is to just to do my work. Even learning the lines, despite the fact that she’s a villain in some ways, I fell in love with her. That falling in love – I fall in love with someone because I identify, I understand them or I’m attracted to them.

It’s about trust: I just have to say, I know I have something unique to offer and I’m going to give it all I have.

Q: What was going in your life when

you decided to stop acting? I was in my late 40s, and I felt my world getting smaller because of what’s available for actresses as they get older. At the time, and it was in I’d say the late (19)80s, that I started to have this crisis. At that particular time, there was a lot going on in NYC in terms of race relations. I grew up in greg miles PHOTOGRAPH

Age: 69 Profession: Actor Born/raised/resides: Oxford, North Carolina; New York City, New York Family: Two sisters, one brotherin-law, one niece and one nephew Education: B.A. University of Kansas, M.A. Hunter College Favorite Band: Bobby Weinbecker Favorite Musician: Philip Fortenberry Favorite Restaurant: Marti’s Favorite Food: Grilled shrimp, garlic and polenta Favorite Book: Moby Dick Favorite Vacation Spot: Bonaire

North Carolina, and I … grew up during Jim Crow. I began to try to write a play based on the subjective relationship to race and I found that anything I did just was racist.

I thought, I really need an education. So I was thinking of going into political science, but sort of at the last minute an anthropologist appeared in my life and said, “You need to go into anthropology.” So that’s kind of the answer to your question: It was a crisis of getting older as an actress, and a desire to learn more about the world in an organized way.

Q: What did you leave with after grad school? Did you come out of the program with a better consciousness or understanding of the world? Yeah, I did.

Grad school was very, very difficult for me. But I was in a study group with seven other women and they were all younger and smarter than I was, and I was the only one of the seven to finish and graduate just because it was like, one foot in front of the other. It truly made me more sophisticated. When I started

my girls’ program, I wrote every single grant proposal.

It just gave me vocabulary; it just felt like I could play with the big boys a little.

Q: Was that a really

intense experience to have In Cold Blood be your first film role (since the film was shot in the house where the murders actually happened)? It was this intense contrast of the excitement of being in a movie and then the reality that this happened to real people. I had nightmares for years after that – very, very powerful ones, usually the same one. There was a feeling of guilt, that I had an opportunity out of this tragedy. In my dreams, I was always somehow complicit in it.

[The murders on which the movie was based] were a particular thing to have happen in 1959, where it was just natural for people not to lock their doors. Also, in terms of movies, there was a lot of attention on the movie of In Cold Blood being made, all the press – It was in Newsweek and The New York Times. When it finally opened, it opened the same two weeks as Bonnie & Clyde and The Graduate. So it was a non-event, especially because Bonnie & Clyde introduced a whole other experience in terms of violence because it really was overkill. In In Cold Blood, there only two seconds of actual screen violence – everything else is implied – and it’s so much more intense. n

True confession I watch those cute dog/ puppy and cat/kitten videos people post on Facebook. myneworleans.com / MARCH 2015

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THE BEAT / BIZ

Back to El Futuro Local businesses look toward Cuba

By Kathy Finn

L

ike other states along the Gulf Coast, Louisiana has long had visions of enlarging its trade relationships with countries to the south. And like its neighbors, the state has focused its efforts primarily on Central and South America, and to some extent Mexico.

What very few trade advocates in Louisiana and elsewhere saw coming late last year was the potential for brand new opportunities to do business with a long “lost” trading partner.

The move in December by President Barrack Obama to re-establish diplomatic relations with Cuba took most people by surprise. But after the gasps subsided, it didn’t take long for local businesspeople

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to start considering the possibilities.

After all, before Fidel Castro seized power there in 1959, Cuba was Louisiana’s top trading partner.

Food, beverages and agricultural products were among the top exports that left the Port of New Orleans for Cuba in the days before the communist dictatorship took hold. Cuba was the biggest buyer of American rice – and Louisiana was a major supplier of the export – until 1960, when the United States government imposed an embargo on trade with the island nation.

While the United States eased some of its trade restrictions in 2001 to allow for agricultural and humanitarian aid to

Cuba after a hurricane devastated the country, the embargo remains in place and only an act of Congress can lift it. But the White House has indicated some commerce could pick up under current laws, possibly including the export of building materials for residential construction and some agricultural equipment.

The rebuilding of diplomatic ties in no way assures that trade doors will fully open, but growing numbers of U.S. businesses are showing support for the idea.

This month, local business and economic development leaders hope to lay the foundation for a return to pre-embargo levels of commerce by means of a trade conference in the Cuban capital.

The New Orleans-based International Cuba Society, along with a local Christian nonprofit group, has partnered with the University of Havana to host the Cuba Hoy (Cuba Today) Conference in Havana. The March 14-21 gathering will bring business and civic leaders together in a networking event that examines Cuban laws and policy and how they might affect expanded trade.

Surprisingly, New Orleans attorney Romualdo “Romi” Gonzalez, who chairs and helped found the International Cuba Society in 2009, says he and others began planning the conference several months before the White House announced plans to restore diplomatic relations.

“Last April we hosted a Cuban delegation that came to New Orleans, and at that time they invited us to bring leaders to Havana,” Gonzalez Joseph Daniel Fiedler illustration

Laying the Groundwork The International Cuba Society and a local Episcopalian group called At the Threshold partnered with the University of Havana to present what they hope is the first annual Cuba Today Conference.

When: March 14-21, 2015 Where: Havana, Cuba What: The conference will offer seminars and networking events of interest to lawyers, business and civic leaders and others interested in the possibilities presented by the opening of diplomatic relations with Cuba.

See CubaHoy.org for more information. says, noting that the local groups have been working to organize the visit to Cuba ever since. “Obama’s announcement really gave us a huge boost,” he says.

The aim of Cuba Today is to explore the potential for doing business in Cuba, particularly focusing on foreign investment in property; preservation issues that may affect the pace of urban revitalization; energy development and environmental considerations; and disaster resilience.

Gonzalez says other Gulf South cities also have been exploring Cuban trade potential, so New Orleans needs to carve some inroads in order to be prepared to compete. “We want to make sure Louisiana gets a foot in the door,” he says.

Just how much business could be at stake is impossible to guess, but Port of New Orleans President Gary LaGrange said recently that

tourism could benefit in a big way. If the trade lanes open, cruise ships could start sailing to Cuba, using New Orleans as a home port, he said.

Chartered flights between New Orleans and Havana could also be in the cards.

Of the limited quantity of exports that now flow from the United States to Cuba, a large portion, including poultry and rice, come from Louisiana, and early indications suggest the volume may grow.

In January, the USA Rice Federation announced revised trade payment rules that will make rice sales to Cuba easier, in part by allowing United States financial institutions to open accounts at Cuban banks to facilitate transactions.

Kevin Berken, a rice farmer from Lake Arthur, says the new payment policy should widen the export pipeline.

He says Cubans grow about 400,000 tons of rice annually and import another 600,000 tons. “They could just about take all of Louisiana’s crop,” he says.

Along with increased trade, Gonzalez looks forward to an easing of travel restrictions that would allow him to renew old relationships.

Gonzalez and his sister came to the United States alone, when he was just 13 years old, while his parents remained in Havana, where his father was a bishop in the Episcopal Church of Cuba.

The children lived with a host family for a time and attended a boarding school.

Eventually, after earning a bachelor’s degree from Sewanee University, Gonzalez returned to New Orleans where he attended and graduated from Tulane University Law School.

“Louisiana is my home now,” he says, “and I want to do whatever I can to help the state do business with Cuba.” n

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THE BEAT / EDUCATION

Help For College Students A plan whose time will come

By Dawn Ruth Wilson

P

resident Obama’s January proposal to make community college tuition free to most students stirred up a fierce debate on the national level about the role the federal government should play in shepherding high school graduates into college, but higher education officials at home at the time were mostly mum on the topic.

That isn’t surprising, considering the fact that the Jindal administration has muzzled higher ups in his control who harp too much about the $700 million decrease in state funding to higher education since he took office.

Now that college officials are facing even larger cuts, no one at home is optimistic enough to think that anything will ever come of the President’s plan.

Under present state leadership, Louisiana would rather give away college degrees to upper-middle class parents in the form of TOPS scholarships than to aid individuals who

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are not likely to contribute to their campaign war chests.

TOPS is given to graduates who took college prep courses in high school and maintain fulltime status and a “C” average in college. That sounds equitable enough, but according to recent stats published in The Times-Picayune, average recipients come from families with annual incomes of between $70,000 and $99,000.

Obama and many civic-minded Republicans, such as Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam, whose state has adopted a free community college program, believe government needs to do more to provide college access to all.

Because a well-educated workforce is needed in a technologically advanced economy, the President’s plan has merit. As long as it’s designed to help hardworking, future taxpayers get ahead and doesn’t waste too much money on freeloaders, some version of it will likely be adopted down the road. How long it will take to

get a workable plan adopted is anybody’s guess.

Consider trends and history. The President’s proposal is based on the Tennessee Promise, a Republican supported program.

Moreover, while it’s true that Republicans typically oppose federal attempts to dictate policy to states, one of the few issues that both parties more or less agree on is the importance of education.

The three primary obstacles to Obama’s free community college proposal are these: Public opposition to any nationalized program that appears to be “welfare”; paying for the estimated $60 billion over 10 years it would cost; and getting around the present ultra conservative Congress.

None of the three are permanent roadblocks. Voters can be convinced through public information about the advantages. Also the billions of federal dollars that are already dedicated to higher education each year could be redirected to community college tuition waivers.

Overcoming today’s conservative Congress is just a waiting game. Not long ago, former President Bush enjoyed some years of undivided government and had his way on issues important to the Republican Party.

Then in 2008, the Democrats enjoyed two years of control of the political process and Obama was able to pass legislation providing health care for most Americans, a goal set by his Democratic predecessor, former President Bill Clinton.

Obama isn’t likely to see his proposal adopted during his remaining years in office, but history has shown that American voters eventually turn out the controlling party and support the opposition, giving that party a few years to usher in policies that have been percolating for years.

As of the end of January, details were just beginning to emerge about how such a sea change in community college funding could be accomplished. The original estimate of $60 million over a period of 10 years sounds like a gargantuan obstacle, but when compared to past amounts spent to help high school graduates go to college, that figure loses its power to dissuade. In 2011’12 alone, the federal government gave $33.6 billion in Pell Grants to low-income students to pay for tuition, according to the Congressional Budget Office website.

Most Pell Grant recipients attend community colleges now, so much of the $340 million that would be spent in the next 10 years anyway could automatically roll into making community college open to all.

At the heart of the proposal is a belief that a college education should be

guaranteed for anyone willing to put in the effort, no matter his or her financial condition. According to the US Department of Education website, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan sent this message via twitter Jan. 9: “Just as free K-12 education is an educational and civil right #FreeCommunityCollege should be as well.”

The primary difference between the haves and the have-nots today is the attainment of training that opens the door to better paid employment. Barriers to that road of economic success enlarge the underclass, drain federal coffers and stifle the nation’s overall economy.

Pew Research Center statistics show that 21.8 percent of people ages 25 to 32 who didn’t continue their education after graduating high school were living in poverty in 2012. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defined poverty in ’13 as having an annual income of $11,490 for one person.

That poverty percentage for high school graduates is considerably higher than the 14.5 percent of those with some college and 5.8 percent who those who graduated from college.

College graduates in this age group also earn almost twice the annual salaries of high school graduates.

The primary challenge for future policy makers isn’t how to finance free community college tuition. The real challenge is how to structure the program so that people who enroll in college, actually stay there. Without proper controls, community college classrooms could bulge with students in September and shrink to a few in December. n

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THE BEAT / HEALTH

Does Size Matter?

What you need for a good hospital to do its good works

by Brobson Lutz M.D.

“Y

ou are asking the wrong person,” said the restaurant owner and hostess. “They almost killed my grandson. He had a facial laceration. The doctor ordered ketamine for sedation. The nurse in the ER injected the entire vial – 100 times what was ordered. My grandson stopped breathing.

“Thank goodness the physician knew what he was doing. He put him on a ventilator right away” she continues. “We later found out the nurse was one of those contract nurses. Nurses I know around here don’t want to work at that hospital.”

Your medical scribe was dining outside Orleans Parish. The small hospital under discussion was heavily dependent on agency nurses, according to the healthcare savvy grandmother. A high percentage of such rent-a-nurses usually signals a weak hospital. Permanently employed nurses are the lifeblood of a hospital. Good nurses attract good physicians and vice versa.

Physicians hear hospital horror stories on a regular basis. Many spill over into non-medical cocktail parties.

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Whether large or small, hospital size is no immunization against less than optimal care. Just recently I had a patient with a lung resection for cancer by a surgeon tops in his field. The surgery was successful with cancer-free margins and negative lymph nodes. The oncology surgeon was all over her like gravy on grits before surgery. After surgery, he put on a Houdini-like disappearing act.

A first year resident was the only physician who examined her post-operatively. A couple of days post-op, one side of her neck blew up like a balloon.

The young resident told her she would be going back for urgent surgery that afternoon to fix a herniated lung.

Fortunately the missing-in-action surgeon did look at her chest X-ray and scratched the return to surgery.

The problem was a simple air leak that healed on its own.

Hospital doctors often repeat unnecessary tests because it’s quicker to reorder the test than to call the patient’s primary care physician. A clinic nurse takes a

call from a home health agency concerning a leukemia patient with high fever and orders a blood culture instead of the urgently needed hospitalization. An oncologist orders the wrong chemotherapy drug. A newborn baby is dropped in the delivery room, sustaining permanent injuries.

And the war stories get more serious when people die, though I’m the first to acknowledge that physicians as Monday morning quarterbacks often lack full details on what goes sour. For example, did a woman really die of sepsis because the hospital-employed urologist would not come out in the middle of the night to remove an infected kidney stone?

Would the elderly man with severe pneumonia still have died after the hospital doctor missed a diagnosis of Legionaire’s disease for weeks until the family requested an infectious disease consultation?

Even physician colleagues are not immune recipients of bad outcomes. A top-notch surgeon with a national reputation does an outpatient procedure on a physician and hands him off to the post-operative care team who may or may not have missed important signs of problems. Regardless, the physician is sent home the same day, hemorrhages and dies.

Each time a patient is “handed off,” the chance for a fumble escalates. Chairman George, a nickname given Dr. George Burch at Tulane Medical School years ago, wrote: “The practice of medicine by teams, an ever-increasing trend, reduces to practice by committee. Personal attention and responsibilities to the patient are lost. The treatment you get depends on the doctor you have.

Patients and their families need one doctor, not a committee, not an institution or a building” (The Celestial Society by Vivian Burch Martin).

Being everything to everybody is still a tough task for smaller hospitals. Efficiently staffing an emergency room, operating suites, intensive care units and floors of hospital beds inhabited by patients from cradle to grave is a big order.

Our only tertiary metropolitan hospital providing inpatient care on the same physical campus for everything from birthing babies to complex cardiac and neurosurgery procedures to provision of psychiatric services is East Jefferson Medical Center.

Touro Infirmary only has cradle to grave care if there’s no need for psychiatric hospitalization.

They closed their once well-respected psychiatric inpatient unit several years ago following a Medicare investigation over an arrangement with a community psychiatrist who’s now in Jason Raish illustration

jail. What was once the largest obstetrical operation in the state migrated from Charity Hospital to Touro after Medicaid reimbursements for childbirths made care of the uninsured pregnant women a cash cow.

Babies are no longer delivered at the original Ochsner campus on Jefferson Highway.

Ochsner farmed out obstetrics to the hospitals they bought for fire sale prices from Tenant Healthcare after Hurricane Katrina. But don’t feel bad for Tenet; they first made a deal with their insurance carriers to pocket a percent of their hurricane- and flood-related insurance claims if they could take the money and flee the state rather than spend the proceeds to repair and rebuild the lost facilities, a common provision in commercial insurance policies to help prevent warehouse fires.

Like bees, small hospitals across the United States are not faring well. Hospitals are mandated to treat anyone for an emergency. Not many restaurants could stay in business if anyone who says, “I’m hungry,” could legally walk out without paying the check. Most small independent hospitals in Louisiana are in the red The $18 billion yearly federal infusion to help reimburse hospitals for uninsured care is being diverted to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; a program Louisiana rejected, meaning money left on the table. Other factors for small hospital colony collapse syndrome include competition with nearby larger hospital systems, rising expenses, workforce shortages, weak margins and decreased payments from insurance carriers including Medicare and Medicaid.

Meaningful data comparing hospital size to outcomes and patient satisfaction are hard to interpret. “Measured by occupancy percentage, small and large not-for-profit hospitals ap-

pear to achieve higher efficiency levels than government-owned hospitals do, but the larger hospitals of both ownership types report greater efficiency than smaller hospitals,” according to a study of hospitals in Washington State titled “Hospital Cost and Efficiency: Do Hospital Size and Ownership Type Really Matter?”

Some Louisiana “tweener” hospitals with between 25 and 100 beds depend on parish millages to survive. Others are classified as important to a rural area, sometimes rather creatively, and are eligible for Medicare supplements that make their care much more expensive that the giant hospital down the road. That funding may or may not last, and most such operations have problems recruiting quality staff.

Small community hospitals all across the United States are closing or downsizing to outpatient services. An emergency room may remain as more of an urgent care facility, perhaps with an attached unit for one- to two-day observational care.

Their prior acute care wards are either mothballed or turned into beds for other purposes, such as nursing homes or drug treatment centers.

Take River Parishes Hospital last year. Ochsner bought the 106-bed hospital with a dwindling census and discontinued inpatient services. The renamed Ochsner Medical Complex – River Parishes still provides emergency care along with some other outpatient services, but its acute bed days are long gone.

Hospital community boards populated by potential donors and civic leaders still abound, but hospital survival, whether large or small, is dependent on strong administrative leadership. And that’s the missing link in all too many small Louisiana hospitals. Good old boys and want-to-be sheriffs are not what we need running hospitals these days. n

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THE BEAT / HEALTHBEAT

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there were 102 cases of measles (Rubeola) in the United States from 14 states reported in January.

The last case of measles in Louisiana was reported in 2008 (as of press day). Most of these cases, reports the CDC, “are part of a recent large, ongoing, multi-state outbreak linked to an amusement park in California.” In February, in response to the outbreak, the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals released a memo to health care providers to be alert for measles in Louisiana and to report suspect cases, as per a state statute.

The memo outlined symptoms, steps to take and testing protocol. CDC experts attribute recent outbreaks to “more measles cases than usual in some countries to which Americans often travel (such as England, France, Germany, India, the Philippines and Vietnam), and therefore more measles cases coming into the U.S., and more spreading of measles in U.S. communities with pockets of unvaccinated people.” The CDC defines measles as “a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air through coughing and sneezing.” For more information about measles and to learn about vaccinations, visit CDC.gov/Measles.

Chelsea Umbach Yates

On March 7, you can join the LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing Alumni Association for its Mudbug March to Stomp Out Pulmonary Hypertension. The event includes a 5K race, 1-mile fun walk, silent auction, music and food. According to a statement from the LSU Health Sciences Center, pulmonary hypertension is increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries and causes symptoms including shortness of breath during routine activities, such as climbing two flights of stairs, chest pain, a racing heartbeat and fatigue. The condition has no cure and usually develops between the ages of 20 and 60, but can occur at any age. The event is being held to raise awareness, to educate patients on how to take care of themselves and in honor of the memory of Chelsea Umbach Yates, who was diagnosed with PH at age 15 and died in 2011. To register and get more information, visit CrowdRise.com/MudbugRace.

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THE BEAT / crime fighting

Polling the Police What the numbers say

By Allen Johnson Jr.

T

he announced results of a 100-question poll of New Orleans Police Department officers trigger memories of previous surveys of the NOPD, from sophisticated “focus groups” to an informal “show of hands.” Police are a cynical lot. Police polls can be an invitation to predictable and unexpected responses, depending on the questions.

In 1996, for example, Police Chief Richard Pennington asked 1,300 NOPD officers to complete “Superintendent’s Survey No. 1,” a mail-back questionnaire. A total of 990 officers (76.2 percent) responded.

Among other things, Pennington asked officers to prioritize their work based on what was important to them. Their responses were grouped as follows: 1.

“Apprehend perpetrators”, 2. “Arrest drug dealers”, 3. “Protect and serve the public”, 4. “Reduce crime, fear and disorder” and 5. “Make gun arrests”.

Pennington said the officers’ perception of what the NOPD expected of them was

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quite different. They ranked the NOPD’s priorities as follows: 1. “Respond to complaints”, 2. “Stay out of trouble”, 3. “Report police corruption”, 4. “Don’t embarrass the brass” and 5. “Protect tourists.”

Pennington used the poll to reorganize and restructure the NOPD and to develop a strategic plan to fulfill an incredible promise: To cut the city’s murder rate in half within three years. Pennington appointed Ronal Serpas as Assistant Superintendent, the No. 2 position in the department. He was tasked with implementing an ultimately successful blueprint for reducing violent crime in New Orleans: the “Pennington Plan.”

Today, nearly 20 years later, the results of another anonymous poll of NOPD officers are published for public review. Once again, the larger goal is the safety of a crime-weary public and the reform of a troubled force.

A federal court-supervised consent decree between the city and the U.S.

Department of Justice has resulted in the parties, the NOPD and a judge-appointed “monitoring team” crafting a three-part poll of the public, police and detained suspects at Orleans Parish Prison. The police portion was published first.

Susan Howell, a locally renowned political scientist and retired founder of the University of New Orleans Survey Research Center, interpreted the results of the police poll for this magazine during an extended visit. (She and her husband John Vinturella, a 9th Ward native, reside in her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio.) While at UNO, Professor Howell led a “recruitment and retention survey” of the NOPD for nonprofit New Orleans Police Foundation in 2004.

“Police are normally a suspicious group,” Howell says, referring to the dozens of NOPD officers surveyed who omitted their race, rank, age and gender from the Consent Decree poll, despite the court monitoring team’s assurances of anonymity.

Administered at police roll calls in April 2014, the biennial police survey will serve as a “baseline” for the next survey, April ’16. The two-year poll is sufficient time for measuring cultural changes in the NOPD, including the officers’ “beliefs and perceptions,” Howell says.

“The theme of this poll was positive relations between police officers and their supervisors, and a 50/50 relationship with the citizens,” she says, adding that 84 percent of the more than 400 officers surveyed “personally believe they have power over the way NOPD is perceived.”

Overall, the professor says, she found “big positives” and “large negatives” in the survey.

“The big positive is the officers are very positive about their fellow officers and their supervisors,” she says. The majority of officers believe their district or division commanders administered discipline fairly and are respectful – regardless of race, gender, ethnicity and/or sexual orientation.

“However, this respect for supervisors definitely did not extend to Ronal Serpas,” Howell says of Chief Pennington’s protégé and Mayor Mitch Landrieu’s Joseph Daniel Fiedler illustration

former police chief.

NOPD officers surveyed, including Superintendent Serpas and his command staff, were asked to respond to the statement: “The current Superintendent of Police is leading us in the right direction.”

Fifty percent “strongly” disagreed and 24.5 percent disagreed “somewhat,” for a total negative rating of 74.6 percent. Only 13.6 percent of the officers agreed with the chief’s direction and only 5.6 percent “strongly” endorsed Serpas’ leadership, for a total positive rating of 19.1 percent.

The remaining officers (6 percent) didn’t respond (U.S. v. City of New Orleans, 2:121924, Doc. 400-1). Serpas, 54, retired Aug. 18, 2014.

“There were two large negatives in the survey,” Howell continues. “First, police dissatisfaction with citizen complaints.”

The poll showed 77 percent of the officers surveyed agreed with the statement “Most civilian complaints against officers are frivolous.”

Three-quarters of the cops surveyed worried they could be punished for, in the survey’s words, “an honest mistake.”

“Most officers don’t believe Public Integrity Bureau investigators are fair,” Howell says.

Other findings according to Howell: • “Three-quarters believe they don’t have quality equipment and this affects their ability to do their job.”

• “Eighty percent said they rarely get rewarded for doing a good job, but ‘reward’ doesn’t necessarily mean more money.”

• More than half would not be satisfied with the police service if they lived in their own district, an apparent reference to the shortage of officers.”

• The poll asked NOPD officers a number of questions about bias, Howell says. “It looks like most officers believe their superiors are not biased

based on gender or race. The bias is based on who you know.

Two-thirds says getting a good assignment is based on who you know.”

Howell said the “breadth” of the 100-question survey is commendable. “There’s a lot of improvement to be made here,” she says of the NOPD.

*** It will be a bleaker reform era without retired Capt. Craig Jennings, 66, who died Jan. 26. (Jennings retired from the NOPD in 2007 with 39 years of service.)

A highly decorated commander, Capt. Jennings was, for years, one of the few NOPD officers that the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice trusted with ongoing investigations of corrupt police officers and public officials, sources say.

He possessed a patrolman’s cynicism and a dry, rapier wit, which he often aimed at political sycophants and other contemptible elements on the NOPD – especially those of equal rank or higher.

Some years ago, NOPD’s white-shirted commanders were ordered to a special meeting on the fifth floor of NOPD headquarters, 715 South Broad St. The top brass informally polled the captains for fresh ideas to lift police morale without raising pay.

With characteristic sarcasm and a poker face, Jennings recommended “the immediate installation of Prozac dispensers at all eight district stations.”

The top brass in the room was livid, he acknowledged.

They saw no humor in jokes about the distribution of antidepressants to police. Patrol officers and detectives at headquarters roared with laughter.

The captain’s quip spread to the streets, boosting morale for at least one eight-hour shift – ironically, without any increase in police pay. n

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LOCAL COLOR in tune

READ+SPIN

JAZZ LIFE

JOIE D’EVE

MODINE GUNCH

CHRONICLES

HOME

“For something a little showier, don’t miss the Australian electronic duo Empire of the Sun. The intensity of their rhythms is accompanied by highly stylized costumes, dances and theatrics.”

in tune pg. 38

LOCAL COLOR / IN TUNE

Three to Try

A$AP Rocky

Carnival to Jazz Fest Music for the in-between BY mike griffith

W

ith Mardi Gras behind us and Jazz Fest ahead of us, March is an interesting time in New Orleans. The arrival of the spring thaw tends to see more acts on the road and over the past few years the BUKU Music + Art Project (a joint project of Winter Circle and HUKA Entertainment) has stepped in to help bridge this gap. The festival (held March 13-14 this year) is a fascinating hybrid of music festival and art installation (read more in Spotlight, pg. 23).

The event balances indie rock with EDM and artistic creation to convert Mardi Gras World into a continually evolving feast for the senses.

One of the best aspects of BUKU is that the relatively small size (compared to festivals like Bonnaroo or Jazz Fest) allows attendees to get up near the performers and artists. This year the promoters have managed to land several of the biggest acts touring this year along with some diehard favorites of the festival scene.

Hip-hop duo Run the Jewels (whose Run the Jewels 2 was one of my favorite albums of last year) will begin a long summer of festival shows at BUKU. This duo is rewriting the very

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DNA of hip-hop with their current work. In addition to RtJ make sure to catch A$AP Rocky, the Harlem-based A$AP Mob has been indomitable on the scene over the past few years. For a different interpretation of the contemporary hip-hop scene, stop by BadBadNotGood. This Toranto-based outfit blurs the line between jazz and improvisation, hip-hop and electronica. Another band with an excellent release last year is TV on the Radio (TVoTR). The indie rock outfit has returned after a four year silence with an outstanding new record, Seeds.

A spiritual companion to TVoTR, Portugal, the Man will also play the festival. Taken together these bands represent the darkly melodic, experimental side of the indie rock scene. For something a little showier, don’t miss the Australian electronic duo Empire of the Sun. The intensity of their rhythms is accompanied by highly stylized costumes, dances and theatrics.

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In non-BUKU related news, there are a few other excellent shows to mention this month. Make sure to catch Sylvan Esso at Tipitina’s on the March 26. I have talked up this band quite a bit over the last year; this time they return to do their first large location show in the area.

Also check out Son Lux (Ryan Lott) at Gasa Gasa on the 21st. Lott (himself a former member of Kurt Vile’s Violators) is fresh from his recent Sisyphus collaboration with Sufjan Stevens and Serengeti. You can count on an eclectic night of post-rock from Lott’s engrossing shows.

Think 1980s glam with an Australian attitude updated for the new millennium (trust me, it’s great). Finally, check out the emerging artist Raury. This Atlanta-based singer, songwriter and rapper is fresh off his collaboration with SBTRKT last year. There is a subtle complexity in his music that belies the simplicity of his sound. You will be seeing this 18-year-old again in much larger venues.

Honestly, one cannot go wrong at BUKU; there’s a little something of everything and an environment that matches the intensity of the music. n Note: Dates are subject to change. Playlist of mentioned bands available at: bit.ly/InTune3-15

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

Zoe-Ruth Erwin photo

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LOCAL COLOR / READ+SPIN

FICTION: Who Buries the Dead, by New Orleans author C.S. Harris, follows the chilling investigation of Sebastian St. Cyr and his wife Hero as they delve into the gruesome murder of a West Indies slave owner. Set in London in 1813, this is the 10th installment in the author’s Sebastian St. Cyr Mystery series. Harris is just one of the nom de plumes of Candice Proctor (the other is C.S. Graham), historian, former academic, former archaeologist, former partner in a business consulting firm and, of course, former and current prolific writer of fiction and nonfiction.

Meet the author during her March 3 reading at the Garden District Bookstore, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

JAZZ: If you’re jonesing for a fix of the Jazz manouche stylings of Frenchman Street stalwarts the New Orleans Swinging Gypsies, now you don’t even have to leave your house – unless you want to. The group released its self-titled album New Orleans Swinging Gypsies, but be advised that its la pompe-filled eight tracks serves more as an amuse bouche than an entrée, and likely will send you in search of the dimly lit corner of a Marigny jazz club for another hot helping.

COOKING: In Fun, Funky & Fabulous: New Orleans’ Casual Restaurant Recipes, by Jyl Benson, get the recipes for favorite dishes from some of the city’s tastiest and most affordable neighborhood haunts. Benson is a journalist, community affairs curator for the Southern Food and Beverage Institute, food and dining editor for St. Charles Avenue magazine and food columnist for Acadiana Profile (both published by New Orleans Magazine publisher, Renaissance Publishing LLC).

ROCK: Cranston Clements, heralded as one of the most sought-after guitarists in New Orleans, released his new CD What’s the Rush? Clements is known for his work with greats including Boz Scaggs, Dr. John and Cyril Neville, Wayne Cochran and the C.C. Riders and as a founding member of the guitar collective Twangorama.

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BY melanie warner spencer Please send submissions for consideration, attention: Melanie Spencer, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005.

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LOCAL COLOR / JAZZ LIFE Joseph “Cornbread” Thomas with Papa Celestin’s Original Tuxedo Band at New Orleans Jazz Club Concert at the Royal Orleans hotel.

Where the Hip Cats Meet Original Tuxedo does the standards

BY JASON BERRY

F

or books, the definition of a classic is a work that stays in print. A number of bestsellers or mid-list books lose shelf life as time advances. Libraries, and Google searches, provide access. Dante’s The Divine Comedy has continuing translations; the story, the poem, has an almost peerless popularity.

Songs face their own steep threshold to become standards or classics – tunes endlessly replayed as to make people get up and dance, or roll along in the car, plugged in, wafting on luxuriant thought clouds.

“Basin Street Blues” is a sterling example. It may have more staying power than any other tune in the New Orleans canon. Composed by Storyville piano player Spencer Williams, whose aunt was a high-rolling madam, the song softens raw facts of a sex district for an elysian vision of a happy old town down on the river.

“Why don’t you come along with me, down the Mississippi?

We’ll take a boat to the land of dreams, Deep down the river to New Orleans.

The band’s here to greet us, All friends here to meet us, Where do all the hip and elite cats meet?

On heaven and earth, they call it Basin Street.”

The original says “the dark and light folk” meet in reference to white men bedding down women of color. The racy lyrics went even softer when Louis Prima in a euphoric version sang, “Where all the hep cats meet,” and in later variations race references all but disappeared.

The version quoted above is by Yolanda Windsay, who provides a mellow languor to the seventh cut on the new CD, Gerald French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band: A Tribute to Bob French.

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They perform Monday nights at Irvin’s Jazz Playhouse in the Royal Sonesta. Drummer and vocalist French is the third generation of his family to lead the Original Tuxedo, and dedicates the CD to his uncle Bob French, well remembered for his WWOZ radio show known because, ah, Bob did have opinions. He led the band for decades until passing in 2011.

“I keep with many of the songs my grandfather played,” says French, referring to Albert “Papa” French, the banjoist who led the Original Tuxedo for several decades until his death in 1977. “Basin Street Blues” was a staple when French at 5 wore a coat and tie and accompanied the band in tuxedos to high-end Carnival balls or country club dances. He watched, listened and snuck into a garage to play Uncle Bob’s drums, while drumming in grade school.

This Original Tuxedo CD includes two other classics, “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?” and “When the Saints Go Marching In.” A great novel is done at publication; great songs change as different artists maintain melody and seize on improvisations.

“The Saints” was a slowtempo spiritual in churches until Louis Armstrong’s 1938 recording made it a second line anthem. Paul Simon’s “You can Call Me Al” from the smash Graceland has surreal lyrics (“bone diggers, get these mutts away from me”) but those big pumping horns are a chart bandleaders love, that buoyant cascading melody is perfect for a parade repertoire and words subservient instrumentation.

As a drummer starting out, Gerald French played for several years in Liberty Brass Band, founded by Dr. Michael White, the clarinetist and New Orleans-Style composer. White produced Through the Streets of the City: New Orleans Brass Bands, a February release by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. White, a professor at Xavier, wrote the long booklet on local marching band history. The 15 cuts feature different brass march styles by the Liberty, Treme and Hot 8 bands. Treme’s version of “We Shall Walk through Streets of the City” is a melody synonymous with “Red River Valley,” and, as White notes in the booklet, “a popular standard in social club parades, church processions and jazz funerals for many years.”

So what’s a standard?

When the people like it, the bands keep playing it. n

photo courtesy of the New Orleans jazz club collection of the Louisiana State Museum

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LOCAL COLOR / MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS

Survival

A night in the woods

BY MODINE GUNCH

N

ow, I got nothing against nature – as long as it stays outside where it belongs.

Especially the kind of nature that got fangs and claws.

In all the millions of years since Adam and Eve popped up naked under an apple tree, human beings have managed to invent indoor plumbing, central air, microwave ovens and soft beds you can climb into at night.

But noooo, some human beings still want to sleep on the ground, outside, in the cold and heat and mosquitoes, where there ain’t no bathroom. (I know – if you’re a man, the world is your bathroom. But that ain’t true for me.)

Then my daughter Gumdrop decides to be leader of her little girl Lollipop’s Scout troop. Gumdrop, who refused to eat vegetables because they grow in dirt. And she’s taking the troop on a campout.

Now, back when I was in Girl Scouts, this is how we camped out:

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Our leader, Mrs. Pottsy, led us on a hike for seven whole blocks to Audubon Park. We each carried a Schwegmann’s bag with a camp stove we had personally made out of a coffee can, a tuna fish can and a candle. When we got to the park Mrs. Pottsy lit our stoves, and we each cooked a weenie, put it in a bun and ate it. Then we hiked home again.

But Gumdrop’s troop got to be driven to an actual campground and sleep overnight in tents. Outside.

Better them than me.

Then I get the phone call. One of the campout chaperonnes backed out. Come down with fever. Or hangover. Or came to her senses.

Gumdrop needs one more chaperone. She needs me.

I know a Schwegmann’s bag and a coffee can ain’t enough for camping gear. My mother-in-law Ms. Larda says her son Leech has some gear for when he goes hunting, so she gives me that – a sleeping bag that smells like beer and a inflatable

cushion to put under it to soften the ground.

She also gives advice. “Put Ripple in your canteen. Say it’s Kool-aide. Only way you’ll sleep. And check your bedroom slippers for snakes.”

So two nights later I’m at Camp Dirt, teaching 12 little girls to use a campfire to transform marshmallows into soot.

I am a little nervous because this campground has signs around that say “Beware of alligators. Do not feed.” But Gumdrop says that’s just for legal purposes, and alligators never attack Girl Scouts.

When it’s finally sleeping-bag time we all hike to the bathroom, which is, naturally, on the other side of the campground; use the facilities, hike back and settle the girls down in their tents.

After a few final threats, I crawl into the chaperones’ tent, put on my nightgown, roll out Leech’s sleeping bag and start to blow up the inflatable cushion – up to the point where me and the other chaperones realize this cushion got a head and arms and legs and boobs. And when I lay on it, it moans.

I look at the package. This cushion’s name is “Trixie” and she ain’t no Girl Scout. So this is what Leech takes camping. I shove her in the recycle bin. God knows what the forest rangers will think.

A couple swigs from my canteen and I quit worrying about it. I am just dozing off, when a little fist pounds my shoulder. Lollipop has to go the bathroom. I put on my bedroom slippers and off we go.

On the way, Lollipop asks what was the commotion in our tent. I say we should be quiet now and not disturb the alligators.

So we find the bathroom, use it and start back. I am realizing that wearing bedroom slippers wasn’t so smart, when all of a sudden we hear something in the bushes. I clutch her hand. Next, we hear branches snapping, real close. I say, very calm, “Just for fun, let’s run!” But then I trip. My slipper goes sailing off. I let go Lollipop’s hand. “Run, Lollipop!” I screech. “Save yourself!”

“Oh, for God’s sake, Mother,” says Gumdrop. She was making that noise. She had come to check on us and took a shortcut through the bushes. She helps me up and finds my slipper. Back at camp, I finish off that canteen and fall asleep until it’s time to fix breakfast.

Which turns out to be sausages on coffee-can stoves.

Oh joy. n

LORI OSIECKI ILLUSTRATION

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LOCAL COLOR / JOIE D’EVE

Back to Our World And not a moment too soon

BY EVE CRAWFORD PEYTON

I

am pretty over the whole “Only in New Orleans” craze and also have about had my fill of “You know you’re a mom when …” And yet I still find myself shaking my head sometimes about just what a mom – what a New Orleans mom – I am.

Nothing drove this home to me more than my recent trip back to St. Louis. It has been a long time since I’ve been back, so it was all the more striking to me how much different my life is now than it was when I lived there in my child-free days – and how different my life is than that of my mom friends’ who live in St. Louis.

The last time I’d seen my friends Amy and Sally together, Amy was driving a cute sporty Jetta, Sally was driving a cute sporty Ford and I was driving my beloved but dilapidated Chevy Nova. Ruby was the only kid, and as such she was a novelty.

This time, we all pulled up in our gigantic black minivans and disgorged a combined seven children.

Ruby, partially because she was the first

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kid in our group of friends and partially just because she’s Ruby, often assumes the role of social ambassador at gatherings, and she was horrified to learn that not every child she met in St. Louis was having weekly King Cake parties at school.

“So between Christmas and Valentine’s Day, they just … do nothing?” she asked me later, and it did sound pretty bleak when she put it like that.

And when I told my friends about the big PTA Fundraiser I’m working on, Pints for the Playground, they all looked at me like I was a circus freak.

“You’re selling alcohol for your school?” my friend asked. “Isn’t that … like … frowned upon?”

“Hell, no,” I said. “You know that bumper sticker about how it would be great if schools got unlimited money but the Air Force had to hold a bake sale to buy a bomber? The money isn’t in bake sales.

The money is in booze.”

But don’t get me wrong; I love bake

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

MARCH 2015 / myneworleans.com

sales. I have baked literally hundreds of cupcakes for the school. Cupcakes are great. But the ROI on cupcakes versus alcohol? Please. And until we start getting unlimited money to buy whatever we need, I’m going to support whatever we can do to raise whatever money we can.

After that exchange, I started thinking about some other things that set me apart as a New Orleans mom. Such as: I fed my daughters King Cake for breakfast this morning, justifying it by saying it was basically just a big cinnamon roll (and by making them drink milk with it). Or: Every Monday on the way to school Georgia gets really excited and yells, “Red beans and rice for lunch, yay!” Or: I’m pretty sure Ruby thinks the only possible way to make a left turn is to drive three blocks the wrong way, cursing, and then make a U-turn, drive three more blocks back the way you came and make a right turn. (Of course, that’s pretty much the only possible way to make a left turn here. The cursing might be optional for some, but it isn’t for me.)

Then I asked some of my New Orleans friends.

Their answers: Mindy: We were driving to Florida for vacation and stopped at a Subway for lunch (where my kids had never been before). My son ordered a roast beef with gravy and when they said that they didn’t have any gravy, he said, “What do you put on it to keep it from being dry?”

Morgan: My child’s first “food” was a wedding cake Plum Street Snowball at the Jazz Fest (with condensed milk).

Katy: My sister’s kids know every vagina euphemism thanks to the women’s dance groups in New Orleans.

But I think my favorite came from my friend Erika: When my son was little and we would go to the Northshore, (or anywhere across any of the bridges required to leave and enter the city), heading home and crossing the Twin Spans or Causeway, William would always ask, “Are we going back to our world now?”

I liked that one because that’s exactly how I felt coming home from St. Louis. It was really fantastic to see all of my college friends. It is amazing to see them as professionals and moms after so many years of seeing them mostly bleary-eyed and hungover – through my own bleary eyes – over plates of greasy omelets at our favorite college diner. I love watching my friends parent.

I love that one of my friends was a, ahem, dancer in college and is now a Girl Scout leader. Visiting was a truly great experience.

But I can’t tell you how happy I am to be back in my world now. n jane sanders ILLUSTRATION

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LOCAL COLOR / Chronicles Ken Gormin

Hometown “Mad Man” Bauerlein and the local p.r. biz

BY CAROLYN KOLB

“W

ell, the agency was pretty staid – you know, strait-laced,” David Snow reminisces about his time at the venerable New Orleans advertising agency, Bauerlein, Inc. From its 1922 founding until the company ended in ’97, Bauerlein specialized in advertising and public relations, and in the process put some Madison Avenue flair in its New Orleans creations.

At the same time, especially under its long-time president, the late Ken Gormin, there was an insistence on professionalism. David Snow’s nighttime moonlighting as a bartender was definitely frowned upon. “But, when I explained that we expected a baby and needed that extra money, Ken Gormin gave me a $75 raise!” Snow recalls.

Gormin’s daughter Pat, a former newspaper and television journalist herself, explains that her father “didn’t drink – he didn’t like the way it tasted. And, he didn’t

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smoke. But he wasn’t a prude: he had a wonderful sense of humor.”

Ken Gormin was from Minnesota, the son of Russian immigrants.

In New Orleans he was a newspaper reporter. As his daughter remembers, “he had done a lot of political reporting. He saw politics as very important in peoples’ lives.” He also did entertainment reporting. “He would go around the night spots and report in his column ‘The Spotlight’ on celebrities in town. The bartenders loved him – he didn’t drink!”

Clark Salmen, himself a newspaperman, had gone to work at Bauerlein and, in 1952, hired Gormin to handle public relations.

The agency was established 30 years earlier, in 1922, by G. W. “Wally” Bauerlein, a dapper Midwesterner, given to wearing spats, who had worked as a reporter and had been manager of a Chicago advertising agency that had a New Orleans office. When Bauerlein, Inc., was founded it had two main accounts: Illinois Central Railroad (Southern Lines) and the Dunbar Molasses and Syrup Company, according to the trade publication Printer’s Ink. Bauerlein, who died in 1942, had himself known Ken Gormin: both men were present at a ’40 event at the Roosevelt Hotel introducing the “new Blue Room,” for which the agency would produce advertising.

By 1960, Ken Gormin was Bauerlein’s president, a post he held 20 years, and was in charge of the firm’s public relations department.

That included politics and handling campaigns for Louisiana’s Congressional heavyweights, Congressmen F. Edward Hebert and T. Hale Boggs. Possible clients were always around. Longtime Bauerlein account executive Hughes Drumm remembers Boggs’s driver: Harry Lee, later Sheriff of Jefferson Parish.

Bauerlein’s advertising depart-

ment under Pierre Villere had accounts such as Bill Watson Ford, Pan American Life Insurance Company, the Roosevelt Hotel, Sunbeam Bread, Chrysler Corporation’s Michoud operation and Delta Steamship Lines. Drumm headed the agency’s broadcast media section, and WWL-TV was also a Bauerlein account, as was the New Orleans Sears Roebuck store.

Besides producing memorable ads and campaigns, Bauerlein employees had some interesting tasks. Ken Kolb remembers meeting Broadway star Mary Martin when she arrived on a Delta Line ship. He also got to escort “Miss Sunbeam” when Sunbeam Bread donated an elephant to the Audubon Zoo. David Snow recalls spending time with singer Frankie Laine after a Blue Room appearance by the star (who also liked to shop for antiques). Charles Beverly worked on the Delta Lines account and remembers traveling to South American on their ships.

Bauerlein was involved in good causes, once even producing a film, The Yam Goes to Market for the Louisiana Sweet Potato Commission. The agency also worked on a campaign to encourage polio vaccinations.

Pat Gormin remembers that her father and Bauerlein, Inc., had worked with both black and white civic leaders to produce a newspaper ad in 1960 urging New Orleanians to obey laws ending segregation. The late newspaperman Walter Cowan, quoted in Ken Gormin’s 2000 TimesPicayune obituary, noted, “It was a strong statement. You can never know for sure, but it was generally thought this was a factor in preventing serious violence.”

Bauerlein was at one time the largest advertising agency in the south during its 75 year run.

Straightforward and professional like Gormin, its longtime leader, the agency left a proud legacy. n Leon Trice photo, courtesy of Pat Gormin

LOCAL COLOR / home

left: The single side hall shotgun on a quiet Uptown street features four main rooms. ABOVE: Monique Chauvin, with Pin and Leo, her Labrador Retrievers.

Forever Home

Monique Chauvin’s shotgun with explosive charm

BY BONNIE WARREN PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHERYL GERBER

M

onique Chauvin lives in a small Uptown jewel. Just 1,100 square feet on a 34-by-150 foot lot, the single side-hall shotgun house fits neatly into the quiet neighborhood of historic homes. “The first time I visited the house I fell in love with its charm,” says Chauvin, owner of Mitch’s Flowers on Magazine

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Street and partner with Leslie Massony in Oysteria, a company that produces unique oyster-style plates. “It seemed so warm and inviting sitting neatly behind an iron fence. Even though it only had four main rooms and a bathroom, I thought it would work just fine for me. Then I opened the back door and saw the large rear yard with many tall trees, and I knew it had to be my forever home.”

Enter Chauvin’s rear garden and you’ll see what seems like an enchanted forest with lush plants hugging the entire perimeter, dramatic courtyards created with old bricks, sculptures and enough blooming flowers to fill the front of her popular nearby flower shop. “Since my home is small, my garden becomes an important additional living space where I relax, entertain friends and let my dogs relax.”

There is no doubt that Ping and Leo, Chauvin’s Labrador Retrievers, are an important part of her life. “I love being able to go outside to my private sanctuary with the dogs and have my coffee in the mornings, or sit with friends and enjoy a glass of wine

top, left: Chauvin brings bromeliads, orchids and vines, unsold items from her Magazine Street shop Mitch’s Flowers, for a last chance of renewal in the lush garden; pair of chairs and a small round table offers a staging space for entertaining friends. TOP, RIGHT: Cool lemonade is ready for guests on the marble-and-iron table next to the shed. BOTTOM, LEFT: The 8-by-10 foot rear shed adds interest to the rear gardens and accommodates garden equipment. BOTTOM, RIGHT: An old wagon is used to transport flowers or equipment in the garden and it doubles as a showplace for blooming flowers.

TOP: The comfortable living room where Chauvin spends most of her time features the original long-leaf pine floors that still exist in the entire house; the walls are filled with a collection of art she has collected over the years. LEFT: Chauvin adorned the guitar on the left of the antique armoire with tickets from concerts such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Joe Bonnamessa and The Allman Brothers. RIGHT: Thee large windows provide maximum light in the front guest bedroom; the art above the 18th century French bed was a gift from her mother.

in the evening.” She enjoys the shady garden including many trees indigenous to the area that existed when she purchased the property in December 2001. “I am also especially fond of the overgrown aspect of the entire garden,” she says, “it gives me the nice feeling of a French Quarter courtyard. Everywhere you look there’s something different and I’m constantly changing the blooming flowers close to the shed.”

The 8-by-10 foot shed’s main purpose is to house garden equipment; however, it’s the perfect backdrop for hanging displays of flowers. “The inspiration for the pallet with the bromeliads and orchids came from different Pinterest posts,” she says. “I just made it work in my setting.” Then she smiles and explains, “The bromeliads, orchard and vines are plants that I didn’t sell. After I repurpose them in my garden, it’s amazing how each one takes on new life once it joins my garden family.

Walk inside Chauvin’s home and you’re greeted by the side hallway filled with a collection of watercolors and an American flag. The side hall offers an introduction to my eclectic tastes,” she says. “Of special importance is the American flag that dates back to the World War II-era, and I cherish the collection of watercolors that were a gift from a friend. I especially enjoy the fact that the side hall allows the two front bedroom to be completely private.”

Her front bedroom is reserved for guests, while the master bedroom is in the quiet, central part of the house. The guest bedroom features a French 18th century antique bed and an 19th century armoire, while the master bedroom holds Chauvin’s collection of perfume bottles on top of an antique 19th century dresser. The back of the house provides just the right amount of space for the living and dining room, kitchen and bathroom. Chauvin gives credit to Leslie Massony for helping her with the placement of art and paint colors. “Leslie has a great sense of design and knows how to define my taste.” Mark Chauvin, her brother, who’s a contractor in Houma, helped make the changes she wanted to the house.

“Everything about my home delights me, and when I open the French doors in the kitchen that lead to the wonderful garden, I marvel at my good fortune to have found this wonderful house more than a decade ago. Here is where I spend time relaxing and enjoying living both the inside and outside in my peaceful garden. It is a perfect retreat from my busy work-aday-world.” n TOP: Chauvin painted the dining room chairs and covered the seats with a tropical scene featuring birds in browns and oranges to match the chairs; Ashley Longshore painted Chauvin’s dogs – Ping, a Labrador retriever, and Falstaff, a Shih Tzu. BOTTOM: A tablescape in the dining room further shows the charm of the house.

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this bud’s for you

O u r g u i d e to s p r in g g a r d e nin g . by R. Stephanie Bruno As March blows in like a lion, it brings with it longer days, warmer temperatures and the pleasure of sunshine. In New Orleans, it also initiates the annual post-Carnival event season, which begins with St. Patrick’s and St. Joseph’s days, moves on to French Quarter Festival, then culminates with the seven-day New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

But for the gardener, the entrance of March heralds something still more exciting: The advent of the spring gardening season.

Hosts of workshops and garden classes ensue over

eugenia uhl photo

the next few months and provide instruction in how to propagate roses, how to tell a native iris from an imposter, which plants to install to create a butterfly garden and when to cut back annuals. Scour your local newspaper and study the New Orleans Botanical Garden workshop calendar to ensure you don’t miss out.

In the meantime, we have compiled a list of “Tips and Tricks” to get your spring garden off to a good start and help it weather the transition to summer. You will also find recommendations for more than a dozen plants to bring color, form and texture to your home garden.

Dress it up.

It is simple to prepare a brand new bed for spring planting, devoid of existing shrubs or perennials. But how do you improve soil structure and provide nutrients when there’s already an Indian Hawthorn or other spring-blooming shrub present that shouldn’t be disturbed? The answer is top dressing, the practice of scraping back the mulch at the base of a shrub or plant and spreading an inch-thick layer of organic compost.

The nutrients in the compost work their way down into the soil over time. (Black Kow, widely available and inexpensive, comes highly recommended.)

Foxglove

Alyssum

Water it wisely.

We like to think that 60 inches of rain annually is plenty to ensure that our gardens stay suitably hydrated throughout the year without our intervention, but it just isn’t so. Rainfall can be erratic – deluges one day, followed by a long dry spell. A subsurface irrigation system is best, but soaker hoses can do an admirable job of spreading moisture evenly and delivering it directly to where it’s needed: the roots of plants. In a pinch, use a hose and watering wand (to control the flow of water through the nozzle) as long as you take your time, are thorough and aim at the plants’ roots (not leaves). Hand-watering, it’s said, may be at least as beneficial to the one doing the watering as to the plants themselves, because it provides an opportunity to get outdoors and connect with neighbors, as well as with the garden.

Pansies Poppies

Spring flowering plants to add to your garden now

Nasturtiums

Mulch it over.

Many gardeners like to get a jump on colorizing their spring beds as early as the preceding fall by planting snapdragons, pansies, violas, alyssum and dianthus. All of these annuals will overwinter well, meaning that they’ll be damaged only in the most extreme cold. But once mid-March has passed, and with it a strong risk of a frost, nasturtiums and petunias can be added safely to the mix and will provide added dimensions of form and color.

Dramatic annuals with a vertical rather than spreading form include foxglove, hollyhocks, larkspurs and poppies. Several of these make stunning displays but don’t last long. Their ephemeral nature (just the right conditions, not too much heat, adequate but no too much water) means you’ll have to baby them along more than some others, but the esthetic reward justifies doing so.

When shopping for plants to install, look for healthy four-inch pots of your favorite annuals (rather than “six packs”) because they’re generally more robust, and root development is well on its way. The goal is to have your annuals settled in and roots well established in the ground by the time the heat of summer begins to stress the plants.

Perennials, especially salvias, make perfect additions to the spring garden because they bloom and look good from spring to fall. Depending on your color tastes, you can find salvias in red, purple, white and yellow. Monthly sales at the Pelican Greenhouse in City Park often include a number of salvias, many of which attract both butterflies and hummingbirds.

Weeding is a thankless enough task without having to repeat it over and over throughout the season. The best way to reduce the need for it is to apply a four-inch or greater blanket of mulch atop freshly weeded soil. The most often recommended mulch in our area is pine straw, which can be purchased by the bag or in large rolls from garden centers and plant nurseries. Pine needles knit together to make a thick mat, but they do break down over time, reducing in thickness, so be sure to keep an eye on them and replenish during the growing season.

Blue Daze

Cosmos

Lantana

Pass it on.

As you assess your spring landscape, you may decide that one plant or more needs to be divided, cut back or removed altogether. Although a compost heap makes an honorable destination for such vegetation, why not offer your cast-offs to your gardening buddies? Facebook messages and Craigslist “curb alerts� are great ways to share your garden materials with others.

Who knows what they might offer you in return?

Cleome

Head it off.

“Deadheading” is the practice of removing spent blossoms from annuals to encourage them to bloom again rather than set seed. If you’re worried you might take off too much or not enough, ask a professional at a garden center to show you (YouTube has many “how to” videos on topics like deadheading).

Pansies, violas and petunias are especially needy of deadheading to prolong their vigor throughout the spring months.

Changes to make once summer has arrived

It is tempting to try to squeeze the last bloom out of a nasturtium or hollyhock, but use a judicial approach if you want your garden to continue looking good. Once it’s over, let it go (to the compost heap) and replace it with a plant that will thrive during the summer months.

Zinnias are long time favorites and with good reason. They come in a variety of heights, many blossom sizes and an extraordinary array of colors. Cleome and cosmos are two more that can take New Orleans’ subtropical heat and stand tall (literally). Lantana is just as heat-tolerant, as is blue daze. None of these plants require a great deal of care and fussing and will reward you with a colorful and healthy garden until it’s time for a fall garden tune up.

R. Stephanie Bruno is a native New Orleanian who lives in an old Uptown house, surrounded by an overgrown garden. She has written extensively about New Orleans culture, architecture, neighborhoods and gardens, most recently for the New Orleans Advocate. In 2011, she published New Orleans Streets: A Walker’s Guide to Neighborhood Architecture.

Zinnias

By CherÊ Coen The Gulf Coast’s silky white sandy beaches, sun-kissed balmy temperatures and unique fishing opportunities are enough of an attraction, especially this time of year coming off the dreary cold of winter and leaving the fun of Carnival behind.

But the Coast offers so much more, from a new Minor League Baseball team in Biloxi to ziplining over land and sea. The spring also brings numerous festivals and special events, such as the 29th annual Sandestin Wine Festival and the juried art show at the George Ohr Museum.

Here are 20 fun suggestions of things to take in on your next trip to the Gulf Coast. Of course, you can always go swimming, sun bathing and cast out a line.

Biloxi’s White House hotel has long been a staple of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Built in the 1890s as the home for Judge Walter White and his wife, Cora, the couple later took in boarders and in time expanded the business. They adjoined buildings and added two wings with help from architect George B. Rogers, designer of the Bellingrath Gardens house in Alabama, to finally create a hotel with its now trademark Grecian columns that overlooks the beach. The hotel became the place to stay for decades until, like many historic properties, it fell into neglect. Last year the hotel reopened as a boutique property with Cora’s Restaurant and Bar serving up local fare, a rooftop terrace ideal for weddings and a pool and hot tub area that faces the beach. Southern Living just named The White House one of “The South’s Best New Hotels.” WhiteHouseBiloxi.com

Visitors can now add baseball to the beach mix as the Biloxi Shuckers Minor League Baseball team takes up residence this spring in downtown Biloxi.

The Shuckers will begin their regular season in April as the new Double-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers in the new MGM Park across from Beau Rivage Resort and Casino. The team chose the Shuckers name from 60,000 votes in a “Name the Team” contest. “The seafood industry is so important to the entire region, and we wanted a name that meant something to the community,” said Shuckers President Ken Young in a press release when the name was announced. The Shuckers’ logo includes an oyster in the colors “Gulf blue, sand, coral and black.” BiloxiShuckers.com

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Float the lazy river at Turquoise Place in Orange Beach, two luxury condominium towers that offer 400 spacious condos with a host of amenities, including a lazy river that’s so relaxing you’ll never want to leave.

All units face the azure Gulf waters with oversized balconies featuring massive hot tubs and tables and grills. Every bedroom is complemented by a private bath, and every unit by a gourmet kitchen and living area.

Other amenities include several outdoor heated pools to accommodate all ages, indoor heated pools and hot tubs, a children’s playground (next to the lazy river so parents can enjoy one while the kids enjoy the other), fitness rooms, sauna and steam rooms and tennis courts. Access to the beach is private and includes beach service, and cabanas are available for spa services or poolside convenience. In addition, there’s covered parking, concierge services, free DVD checkouts and resort activities such as beach volleyball and poolside “tots time” throughout the week. TurquoisePlace.SpectrumResorts.com

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Breakfast at the beach runs the gamut, and naturally we have our favorites.

You can sample the sunrise egg platter at Tacky Jack’s if you’re heading off to fish, or relax and enjoy the morning view, complete with birds and occasional dolphin, with pancakes, French toast or omelettes. Tacky Jack’s offers three locations at Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, and three opportunities to have breakfast and bloody Marys overlooking the water. In Ocean Springs, there’s no water view at Buzzy’s Breakfast Joint but the meals are outstanding and especially enjoyable on the front patio. Buzzy’s serves up breakfast daily from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., and includes a menu consisting of eggs any way, grits and biscuits (of course) and their trademark “Exploding Egg Sandwich.” TackyJacks.com; Facebook.com/bbjkorisinc

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While you’re in the area, travel Florida’s Playground Trail, 12 tourist sites that connect historic Milton just above Interstate 10 with Navarre Beach on the coast. The trail includes Gulf Breeze Zoo, historic Arcadia Mill and Bagdad Village, the L&N Railroad Museum and the Navarre Beach Marine Park with an educational marine science station, sea turtle conservatory and near-shore reef.

FloridasPlayground.com

Go above Interstate 10 for family-style adventures all located in one spot. Adventures Unlimited, located on the pristine Blackwater River near Milton, Florida, is an outfitter for tubing, kayaking, canoeing and camping. Owners will bring paddlers upstream to enjoy the spring-fed Blackwater with its clean, sugar-white sandbars. Visitors may also pause at those sandbars for overnight trips, also organized by Adventures Unlimited. For those who love the great outdoors but want clean sheets at the end of the day, there’s a variety of lodging on site from the School House Inn, once an active schoolhouse on the property, and furnished cabins that accommodate individuals to groups. The property offers no televisions or telephones and cell reception is limited, so it’s also a great way to turn off.

Camping – as well as recreation – is also available at nearby Blackwater River State Park. AdventuresUnlimited.com

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Ziplining is not just for mountains. The Gulf Coast is now home to several ziplining attractions. Florida Zip Line Adventures, connected with Adventures Unlimited and located in Milton, Florida, will set visitors in flight over a variety of zipline packages, including over the lower Wolfe Creek and Coldwater Creek. Visitors may also soar over land and water in a series of ziplines at Gulf Adventure Center in Gulf Shores. Located within the 14 acres of Gulf State Park, the “Hummingbird Ziplines” consist of seven towers and six ziplines that take visitors as high as 90 feet in the air. The course includes soaring over Lake Shelby. FloridaZipLineAdventures.com; GulfAdventureCenter.com

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Birding enthusiasts love the Gulf Coast for its wintering and migratory birds that visit every year, one of the reasons why the Gulf Shores region hosts the Alabama Coastal BirdFest every fall. Visitors heading to the coast this spring have numerous great birding spots to choose from. In Florida, the Okaloosa County Holding Ponds, Oak Tree Nature Park and the many state parks located along the coast are all great birding spots. More than 370 species of birds have been identified during migratory season at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge on the Fort Morgan Peninsula in Alabama. The Gulf Island National Seashore extends from Mississippi to Pensacola, but the Fort Pickens area on Santa Rosa Island and the Naval Island Oaks area near Gulf Breeze remain top viewing for migrant songbirds. AlabamaCoastalBirdFest.com

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Tour a craft brewery and taste local beers in Mississippi at breweries such as Crooked Letter, Lazy Magnolia and Chandeleur Brewing. Crooked Letter in Ocean Springs offers $5 brewery tours on Saturdays and Lazy Magnolia in Kiln includes six different beers in their tours for $10. Chandeleur is the newest of the group and now offers tastings in their microbrewery in downtown Gulfport. CrookedLetterBrewing. com; LazyMagnolia.com; ChandeleurBrew.com

For a drink that’s more family friendly, stop in the retro Lovelace Drug Store and Soda Fountain in downtown Ocean Springs for a milkshake or malt at the counter (remember those?). It is a great break while visiting Ocean Springs’ special events Herb, Garden and Art Festival March 28-29 and the 1699 Historical Society’s Weekend of Discovery April 25-26, with a 5K and children’s pet parade. Facebook.com/pages/Lovelace-Drugstore-and-SodaFountain; OceanSpringsChamber.com; 1699Landing.org

Biloxi was home to eccentric artist George Ohr, known as the “Mad Potter of Biloxi.” It is apropos then that a museum in his name would be unusual as well, including striking exhibit “pods” and buildings merging with nature designed by prize-winning architect Frank Gehry. The eclectic museum itself is on display but inside are revolving and permanent exhibits. On April 24-26, the museum hosts the 17th annual ColOhr Fest juried art show and sale with music and dance performances, hands-on activities for all ages, pottery contests, hand-crafted art and crafts for sale, food and more. GeorgeOhr.org/OhrFest.

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Learn about the coast’s maritime history at the new Biloxi Maritime and Seafood Museum and the Destin History & Fishing Museum. Biloxi’s newest museum includes two 65-foot Biloxi Schooners that sail Gulf waters and offers year-round educational programs and a summer Sea-n-Sail Adventure Camp. The Destin History & Fishing Museum explains Destin’s past as a small fishing village founded on East Pass in the 1830s. MaritimeMuseum.org; DestinHistroyAndFishingMuseum.org

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The Blue Angels, officially known as the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, tour the country performing breath-taking flights in dazzling air shows. But their home is at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, where they practice along the coast. Starting in March, The Blue Angels will perform free for the public on most Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and sometimes pause for autographs and photos. Be sure and check out the National Naval Aviation Museum that includes a Blue Angel simulation ride, IMAX Theatre and exhibits.

BlueAngels.Navy.Mil/Show

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Go smoke-free at the Palace Casino Resort, a full-service resort and casino on Biloxi’s Back Bay where every inch of the entire casino floor, restaurant and all of the 236 guest rooms and 14 suites prohibit smoking. Resort amenities include the Palace Spa and Fitness Center, banquet and meeting rooms and the Preserve 18-hole golf course in nearby Vancleave. The pool area contains an oversized hot tub and Wahoo’s Poolside Bar and, if you must smoke, the pool is the one place smoking is allowed. Be sure and ask for an odd numbered room for the bayside views. PalaceCasinoResort.com

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If you can visit Bellingrath Gardens & Home in southern Alabama during March you’ll likely catch 250,000 azaleas in bloom throughout their 65 acres of Southern estate gardens. Do not despair if travels take you there during the rest of the year, however, for Bellingrath offers a steady schedule of blooming plants, plus special events such as Easter sunrise service, breakfast with the Easter Bunny and a Mother’s Day concert. Bellingrath.org

The 29th annual Sandestin Wine Festival at Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin April 16-19 offers four days of not only wine sampling, but also wine dinners with celebrity chefs, live music, culinary events and discounted wines at the Retail Tent. It is a favorite of beachgoers and has been named the “Best Annual Event” by Destin Magazine. Participants receive wristbands for tastings, but non-drinking friends are welcomed as well at no charge. SandestinWineFestival.com

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There is more than gorgeous beaches in Destin and Ft. Walton. If the kids want variety, go fly a kite with Kitty Hawk Kites, enjoy water fun from the wave pool to the 70-feet drop of Jumanji at the Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park, and rent go-karts and bumper cars at The Track Family Recreation Center. Coming soon is the new GI Joe’s Theme Park, which will feature military-themed amusement rides and exhibit items from the American Forces throughout the past 100 years. KittyHawk. com; BigKahunas.com; DestinTrack.com

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Bay St. Louis and Ocean Springs, bookends to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, took quite a beating from Hurricane Katrina. Both have rebounded beautifully and offer great day trips for shopping – with a great meal or cocktails to accompany the experience, of course. Both offer antique shops, high-end fashion, eclectic gift shops and locally made art. Some offer a combination of fun.

Maggie Mays in Bay St. Louis, for instance, sells original artwork, clothes, antiques and more while its counterpart, Lulu’s Cafe, serves up delicious sandwiches and poor boys, soups, quiches and a fabulous bread pudding. BayStLouis-Ms.gov; GulfCoast. org; BayStLouisOldTown.com/Maggie-MaysLulus.html

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More than 125 juried fine artists will exhibit at the 27th annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival May 8-10 (always on Mother’s Day weekend) at the Grand Boulevard’s Town Center in Sandestin. In addition, there will be live bands, children’s activities, art demonstrations, food and, of course, artwork for sale. ArtsQuestFlorida.com

A visit to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park may be better served in August, during the dog days of summer, for the crystal clear springs maintain a temperature of 68 degrees year-round. The spring, fed by a convergence of two underground continuous sources, was named for Juan Ponce de León who visited Florida in 1513 searching for the “fountain of youth.” The pet friendly park located just above Interstate 10 and Panama City also includes picnic tables, fishing spots and hiking trails through a mixed forest and along Sandy Creek that make it an ideal day excursion. FloridaStateParks.org/PonceDeLeonSprings

Best New Local

Architecture by john P. Klingman

photographed by jeffery johnston

It has been several years since this annual series has featured houses, because there have been so many outstanding new institutional buildings that deserved center stage. Now there’s a bit of breathing space and it’s time to catch up with the wonderful contemporary domestic architecture that’s appeared on the scene.

NOTABLE ADDITIONS & RENOVATION

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Leake Avenue Project bild DESIGN, Byron Mouton, principal with Julie Charvat and Will Soniat

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ust upriver from the Mississippi River levee dogpark, a striking pair of contemporary structures rises unabashedly above the rooflines of the historic Black Pearl neighborhood.

The structures are a pair of duplexes, the larger one including the residence of architect and builder Byron Mouton and his wife Julie. Taking maximum advantage of the extraordinary site, the design consists of an “upside-down building” strategy. That is, the living spaces are on the top of the three-story mass.

In an unusual planning strategy, the larger building is a side-by-side duplex separated by a stair. On one side is a two-story rental unit. The

owners’ unit has service on the ground floor and bedrooms on the second. The stair rises through the center of the building, arriving at the top floor facing the neighborhood. As you turn into the living and dining spaces that extend across the entire building, the breathtaking view comes into focus. Inevitably, one is drawn to the framed porch, and the drama of the “mighty Mississippi” is revealed. Here that drama is no longer a cliché, but rather the culmination of a carefully orchestrated sequence of spatial experiences.

One of the surprisingly pleasant aspects of the project is the site planning. Entering through a fence, the precinct is marked by thoughtful design.

While the gray siding is a familiar New Orleans treatment, an unusual aspect is that the typical garage is instead an open breezeway, perfect for gatherings at which the architect’s skill with the culinary arts is often on display.

Rio Vista Outdoor Living Pavilion This is an extraordinarily commodious screened porch inset into the center of a modest house and rear garden, also redesigned by the architects. Doubling the size of the living space, with great daylight from sides and clerestories, the steel framed structure lures owners Jay and Karen outdoors even in August. A disappearing glass folding wall provides the connection. Prosus Design, Scott and Carrie Bernhard, partners

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NOTABLE ADDITIONS & RENOVATION

The Jacobs House The renovation work was designed by a collaboration of Steve Jacobs’ friends and colleagues: Architects David Keiffer, Michael Cajski and Van Tran with consultation by Michael Nius.

Nathaniel C. “Buster” Curtis House Renovation An extraordinarily subtle renovation to a nationally important treasure of Midcentury Modernism, Buster and Francis Curtis’s 1963 family home has been performed by architect Lee Ledbetter. Part restoration and part a sensitive transformation, the designer has repurposed and modified the original while respecting its spirit. Lee Ledbetter, principal, Amy Petersen

“A

vertical shotgun” is the way the late Steve Jacobs characterized the design of his Carrollton house. Essentially it’s three rooms stacked atop one another: the living and dining room on the ground floor with a level of studio space and a level of bedroom above. A stair and storage wall separate the primary spaces from the kitchen on the first floor and the bath on the second. The street façade is opaque and rather mysterious, except for an inset porch on the top level with the roof structure floating above. The garden façade is the opposite: a framed wall of glass rising from the ground to the top of the house. The entrance is on the side, under an aedicular folly that shelters the doorway.

Before Professor Jacobs passed away earlier this year, he bequeathed the house to the Tulane School of Architecture to be used as a residence for visiting faculty or guests. This required some transformation and completion of the project. Architect David Keiffer was commissioned to oversee the work, and he enlisted Volume Zero as associates on the project. The results are outstanding. On the exterior, a new rear patio successfully links the building to its site. Inside the new kitchen and bath are handsome, with subtle flush surface detailing of dark stained cherry millwork. The middle level is a studio and home office, originally a sleeping loft, projecting over the living room. The top floor is a commodious bedroom with an expansive view of the treetops beyond. In the bedroom and on the adjacent porch, the precise and intricate details of the steel roof structure are a joy to behold.

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Burdette Street House Lee Ledbetter & Associates were the architects; Lee Ledbetter, principal with Tara Cotterman and Will Soniat.

Linder Baptie House Reconstruction From the street one can sense that a contemporary treatment has been accomplished here, but it’s only inside that the care taken and the design strength become fully apparent. A beautifully day-lit open second floor dwelling for the owners sits above a rental unit. Particularly fine is the delicate connection between living and kitchen. Lawrence Linder and Sandra Baptie architects

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his is a substantial new house that’s so skillfully integrated into the neighborhood that it’s scarcely visible. The clients wanted “a secret house,” and this is what they have! From the street one sees an old bargeboard Creole cottage that seems almost ghostlike. However, upon entering the gateway to its left, a new world emerges. A pool forms the central element of a courtyard.

Ahead is the transparent façade of the living room, and to the left is a service wing that extends into a large open kitchen. Moving farther into the court, the back of the cottage is revealed to be a transformed guesthouse, also with an all-glass vista into the court.

Upon entering the living room, the generosity of scale becomes evident. The side wall holds the hearth. Opposite are freestanding cabinets that encase the television and electronics and provide some separation from the dining area. The project is marked by a series of horizontal metal screens that sometimes act as exterior shading devices, sometimes as spatial boundaries and sometimes as railings.

These provide a consistent counterpoint to a variety of other design elements, notably the voluptuous walnut stairs. The most special aspect of the house, glimpsed from the neighborhood and the river levee, is the third floor porch deck. This perch with its panoramic view was a high priority for the owners.

The reward for climbing the enclosed stair is more than a breath of fresh air.

NOTABLE ADDITIONS & RENOVATION

Solar Shotgun Camelback Michael Nius, architect, Chris Frederic

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NOTABLE ADDITIONS & RENOVATION

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rchitect Michael Nius has designed and developed a prototypical 21st century house that also draws upon our traditional 19th century house typologies. What is new is the extraordinary amount of efficiency in the dwelling. First, this is a compact house that has almost no unusable space and the rooms are designed to be occupied in a variety of ways, as in the shotgun and Creole cottages of the past. Secondly, the monopitch roof provides a generous surface for photovoltaic panels, and when combined with insulation and a state-of-the-art mechanical system, the house consumes virtually no outside electricity. Finally, the materials of the house have been chosen for durability and are used in their full modular dimensions, reducing construction costs and waste.

Most importantly, the house is delightful. Every room has daylight coming from at least two directions, minimizing glare and affording the opportunity for ventilation through the operable casement windows. The spaces connect well to each other. Particularly appealing is the screened porch that extends through the long wall of the house opposite the kitchen. The porch connects visually with the street as well as the side and rear gardens. The house is unified by its ubiquitous dark flooring of carmelized bamboo, recalling the traditional New Orleans dark floors of pine, while providing increased resiliency.

Located on a quiet street with a lush landscape near Tulane and Loyola Universities, the house is designed so that it could be replicated, perhaps with variations, in lots around the city.

Troyer Guesthouse Retreat On the edge of the garden behind architect Wayne Troyer’s Midcentury Modern ranch house is the latest in a series of his “architectural experiments.” It is a pavilion with a wood lath ceilinged den, a bath and a patio. There is excellent daylight through the patio doors balanced by a triangular clerestory and a huge window in the shower alcove.

Wayne Troyer, principal, Tracie Ashe

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n a suburban setting it’s rare to find adjacent houses that relate to each other rather than vying for “curb appeal’ in a variety of stylistic modes. This is the first thing that sets the Cuddihy Drive houses apart, but there’s more that brings them together. First, a bend in the street allows the sides of the houses to generate an angled shared courtyard while each remains perpendicular to the street.

The design arose from a client who needed a single family house, but also a unit for his mother.

Since two-family houses are not permitted, the two lot solution worked well. The site had flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and the previous construction had been demolished.

What remained was a beautiful, sculptural live oak near the street. Respecting the tree produced a strategy that placed the smaller house behind it

and the larger one to its left. The placement and massing of the buildings is perfect; they’re also linked by the unusual and elegant dark cumaru wood siding.

Inside the larger residence the strategy plays out in terms of transparency and connection to the court between the buildings. From the front door one proceeds along a hallway past service elements, the stair to the childrens’ domain and the entrance to the master suite, to arrive at the living space with full-height windows and sliding glass doors opening to the courtyard and its pool. Here the mood is a juxtaposition of rugged, with a concrete floor, and refined, with an ample kitchen and a beautifully designed breakfast bar.

Through the glass one sees the dogs playing and an impressive stand of bamboo in the court that provides welcome shading from the morning sun.

NOTABLE ADDITIONS & RENOVATION

Cuddihy Drive House Tom Holloman, designer . John P. Klingman is a registered architect and a Favrot Professor of Architecture at Tulane University. His recent book, New in New Orleans Architecture, featuring 80 outstanding projects over 15 years, from Pelican Publishing Co., is available at local bookstores.

Wheelahan House Renovation Here is a complete transformation of what had been a badly treated traditional New Orleans house from closed and claustrophobic to open and engaging. There is a restored front porch and new back deck; the kitchen and bath are detailed as defined “wooden containers� within an open floorplan. Michael Nius, architect Chris Frederic

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the MENU TABL E TA LK

RES TAURANT IN SI DER

FOOD

L A ST C A L L

DI NI NG L I S T I N G S

“In Fauborg St. John, 1000 Figs presents a vibrant approach to all things chickpea underscored with an array of creatively prepared produce. Owners Theresa Galli and her fiancé Gavin Cady first got their feet wet with restaurant ownership with the Fat Falafel Food Truck, which they started back in November 2012.”

table talk pg. 88

jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH

THE MENU / TABLE TALK 1000 Figs’ Falafel Feast for Two

Fun With Falafel Plus, you need a pita

BY JAY FORMAN

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ity the local falafel and its brother-by-another-mother, the gyro. One may find them at every Middle Eastern and Greek restaurant around town, but too often they’re unremarkable – suffering from an essential sameness as though they emerged fully wrapped in paper-thin foil from some food conglomerate’s regional distribution center.

Happily, this is changing. A couple of newcomers offer a fresh perspective on these affordable street foods as well as broadening the ever-increasing spectrum of vegetarian fare. In Fauborg St. John, 1000 Figs presents a vibrant approach to all things chickpea underscored with an array of creatively prepared produce. Owners Theresa Galli and her fiancé Gavin Cady first got their feet wet with restaurant ownership with the Fat Falafel Food Truck, which they started back in November 2012. Two years later they opened 1000 Figs.

Kebab Krazy

1000 Figs 3141 Ponce De Leon St. 301-0848 1000figs.com Lunch and dinner, Tuesdays-Saturdays

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Kebab 2315 Saint Claude Ave. 383-4328 KebabNola.com Lunch and dinner, Fridays-Mondays

“The restaurant is an extension of the truck,” Galli says. “We still serve the same things but with more choices, as we have a lot more space to explore.” The terrific location just off of Esplanade Avenue in the heart of Faubourg St. John is a big plus.

Recommended dishes include the Falafel Feast for Two, an artful composition that draws looks from other diners when it comes out the kitchen. The long, slender platter features a pair of salads – one with mixed local produce that changes based on availability and the other a house slaw of beet, carrot and cilantro. Fridge pickles add another flavor profile – they served radish and cauliflower at my last visit – to accompany the hummus and babaganoush. Their homemade flatbread serves as a canvas for scooping things up, and a pair of sauces punch up the flavor. One, a creamy tzatziki, is freshened with dill and cucumber. The other is toum, a raw garlic emulsion brightened with lemon juice, which is especially bold and surprising.

The falafel here is particularly distinctive, ping pong-sized fritters redolent with cumin, coriander, cayenne and sesame. The satisfying complexity will give even the most committed meat eater pause. And while it may be a vegetarian-forward menu, there are a couple of meat dishes that round it out – a dish of braised lamb in particular.

There are, oddly enough however, no figs. “The restaurant is named after a tree in our yard that I’m pretty sure had 1,000 figs on it,” Galli explains.

“We will have them on the menu when they’re back in season. Then we’ll go really fig-heavy.”

Quick note: The homemade flatbread comes with the platters and feast, whereas the pita for the sandwiches comes from Mona’s. It is definitely worth ordering the former, as the bread makes a big difference. (“We tried to bake all of it in-house but we couldn’t keep up,” Galli explains). Right jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH

Middle Eastern Feasts Other Middle Eastern restaurants around town have their fans, though by-andlarge there is a prevailing predictability and sameness about them. Still, Lebanon Café’s fare is better than most and its kibby plate is a personal favorite. Several Mona’s dot the area, but the one on Banks Street offers a really nice grocery store to go along with the restaurant. Many local chefs shop there for harder-to-find ingredients unique to the region. now the restaurant is BYOB, but with Swirl right next door that’s easily remedied.

Over on St. Claude Avenue, Kebab offers a different sort of experience while espousing similar values when it comes to food.

“We are a sandwich shop with a small menu, but we really focus on our ingredients,” says owner Benjamin Harlow, who operates the restaurant along with chef Walker Reisman. All their meat is sourced from purveyors that practice stringent ethical standards, including Springer Mountain Farm. Most everything is made in-house, including the bread, ketchup and coconuthabanero hot sauce. The result is a short-list of carefully considered and executed fare that rises above the shoestring surroundings.

The impetus for the restaurant came from chef Reisman’s tour of duty on a theater ship, where he spent several years working around Europe.

When the ship would sail into port, Reisman would make a beeline for the nearest kebab shops. Along the way he be-

came attenuated to the myriad variations on kebab, becoming enamored of the traditional Greek version.

“The Greek gyro was originally just pork and didn’t utilize lamb or beef,” Harlow says. “As the Turkish style disseminated throughout Europe, other groups would roll into it the ingredients that were locally available. That is why you have variations as far away as in Northern Germany.”

Their menu basically features three sandwiches customizable with housemade sauces and a strong supporting cast of sides. The Greek-style Gyro Kebab uses pork from Chappapeela Farms.

The kebab, a collective term meaning basically “meat on a stick” is put together by slicing, tenderizing then marinating the pork with an herbaceous concoction that includes rosemary, oregano and thyme.

It gets skewered onto the Gyro stack, essentially a vertical rotisserie, and the exterior is charred as it spins and sliced to order on the homemade bread. Dressed with pickled cucumbers, cabbage and red onion, it gets slathered with a pair of sauces. One, the skhug, is an Israeli sauce akin to a chimmichurri, which gets its heat from raw jalapeño. Kebab’s version is relatively mild – “We keep the skhug level down a bit so it doesn’t scare anyone off of our sandwiches,” Harlow says. For that they offer their homemade coconut habanero sauce.

Kebab is open on limited days – at press time Fridays through Mondays, but they do now have a liquor license with specialty cocktails that make use of their homemade sodas with flavors such as grapefruit cardamom. A pair of happy hours – one early and one late – rounds out the appeal. Downtown delivery is offered as well. n

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New and Creative

Q&C Hotel/Bar, Brown Butter and Wood Pizza Bistro and Tap House

BY ROBERT PEYTON

Q&C Hotel/Bar Q&C Hotel/Bar opened at 344 Camp St. late last year. Q&C occupies about half of the lobby of the hotel, and it’s hard to tell where the lobby’s seating ends and the pub’s begins. The kitchen is entirely open.

Josh Garic is the executive chef; his experience includes a position as chef de cuisine at Vega Tapas Bistro and he’s also one of the two founders of The Salty Swine, a catering company that started out doing private supper club dinners. (More on the other founder of the Salty Swine, Dayne Womax, right). Garic’s describes his food at Q&C as “upscale bar food.”

The menu is divided between “Bar Plates” and “Pizza Pie.” The closest thing the restaurant does to a standard pizza is the Margherita, which comes with tomato, mozzarella, Parmesan, roasted garlic, basil and Sriracha sauce. The muffaletta pizza features capicola, mortadella, salami, olive salad and provolone cheese.

I leave matters of drink to my colleague Tim McNally, of course, but I should at least mention that Q&C has an excellent choice of beers on tap and specialty cocktails. They take pride in As I write, service is limited to breakfast (6:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and until noon Saturday and Sunday) and dinner (4-10 p.m. daily). Plans are afoot to open with an expanded menu of sandwiches and salads for lunch, which should have happened by the time you read this. Call 587-9700 to learn more.

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Brown Butter Southern Kitchen and Bar When chef Garic took the executive chef position at Q&C, Salty Swine co-founder Dayne Womax and partner/manager Simon Beck decided to open a restaurant of their own. That restaurant, Brown Butter Southern Kitchen and Bar also started serving late last year in a space formerly occupied by a WOW Café and Wingery at 231 N. Carrollton Ave. With neighbors that include a Subway sandwich shop, an urgent care center and a Papa John’s location, it’s a bit incongruous, but the exterior appearance is deceiving.

Womax’s food is Southern; starters include thinly sliced fried pickles on a bed of buttermilk dressing, and pimento cheese and deviled ham. I have had the chicken and waffle sandwich, which consists of chicken confit, cheddar and country ham between slices of sourdough pressed in a waffle iron and served with a Steen’s cane syrup sauce. I suspect it’s an acquired taste, but I’ve acquired it. The roast chicken with smoky creamed cabbage and Brussels sprouts and apple slaw was also good, and the braised greens were slow-cooked and meltingly tender.

Brown Butter is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. as I write, with brunch and dinner on the way.

Call 609-3871 to see if it’s happened.

Wood Pizza Bistro and Tap House Chef Will Salisbury worked at Pizza Domenica when it opened; more recently he’s started baking pies at his own restaurant, Wood Pizza Bistro and Tap House, in the Warehouse District. True to the name, the oven at Wood is fired by wood, and while the pizza differs from those you can get at Domenica, it’s excellent. The main distinction is the crust, which is thicker and chewier at Wood, but no less blistered by intense heat. These pies cook quickly, and Salisbury pays appropriate attention to the toppings, which are of high quality.

Meat options include Italian sausage, pepperoni, coppa, prosciutto, anchovy, chicken and egg. Roasted mushrooms, eggplant, kalamata olive and arugula are available in addition to the standard topping choices. You can choose between tomato, pesto and garlic cream sauces, and there are several cheeses on offer in addition to those you’d expect.

There is one size for the pies; one should do if you’re hungry, two should work between three people, particularly if you also have an appetizer.

The restaurant seats about 20 inside, but the real show is on the patio, which has tables for another 70 or so. By the time you read this, the jasmine they’ve planted along the fence bordering the space should make it pretty bucolic.

The full bar includes an impressive 40 beers on tap, and the bar itself is deep enough for dining.

Wood Pizza Bistro and Tap House is located at 404 Andrew Higgins Drive, and is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Call them at 281-4893 to find out what’s on tap.

SARA ESSEX BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHs

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THE MENU / FOOD

Cooking for the Season Lenten whole fish and veggies

by Dale Curry

EUGENIA UHL PHOTOGRAPH

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I Rotini With Asparagus and Goat Cheese 1/2 pound rotini 1 pound fresh asparagus, tough ends snapped off 3 Tablespoons olive oil 1 4-ounce log fresh goat cheese (not crumbled) 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon plus more for garnish 1 can original Rotel tomatoes 1/3 cup capers 1 Salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste Parmesan cheese Cook rotini according to package directions, adding asparagus in the last 3 minutes of cooking.

Reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid and drain pasta and asparagus.

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, goat cheese, lemon zest, tarragon, Rotel tomatoes, capers and seasonings. Add hot pasta and toss. Add just enough of the cooking liquid to make pasta the desired consistency, if needed.

When serving, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Serves 3 to 4 as entrée or 6 as side dish

never thought that eliminating meat from a diet for a few weeks could be a penance, but that’s because I live in south Louisiana. If I lived in Birmingham, say, or Little Rock, it might be a different story. There, I wouldn’t have fresh oysters on the half-shell or crabs and shrimp that slept in the wetlands last night. Not only is succulent seafood surrounding us, but some of the best vegetables on the planet are just coming in season.

As a food writer, I know the frustrations of surviving Lent without meat because cooks want recipes for those weeks without steaks, pork chops and chicken. I suggest a field day with our great wealth of seafood, having a few egg entrées and taking advantage of seasonal asparagus and artichokes – two of my absolute favorites.

I wish that whole fish were more available in the city. If you have a fisherman in the family, you’ve got it made, but there are a few seafood markets around town that carry whole red

snapper, redfish and sometimes grouper or amberjack. Unfortunately, they’re expensive but worth an occasional treat.

I have noticed lately that more restaurants are serving whole fish, which is my preference because as the old saying goes, “the closer to the bone, the sweeter the meat.” Fish can easily be removed from the long bone that runs through the center of the fish, but the flesh near the head must be picked, especially for children. My grandson and I split the tail, one of our favorite crunchy parts.

I like to pick crabs and peel shrimp, but for those busy cooks, there’s nothing handier than the frozen shrimp, peeled, deveined, packaged and sold in grocery stores. In no time at all you can produce a spectacular shrimp-stuffed artichoke for the dinner table. And I’m all for veggie meals, especially with asparagus. Just add cheese as a protein and pasta to fill you up; you’ll hardly miss the meat.

Stuffed Artichokes With Shrimp and Lemon-Dill Sauce 2 artichokes 1 cup Italian bread crumbs 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Garlic powder 1/4 cup olive oil 4 Tablespoons butter 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white wine 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp, fresh or frozen 3 Tablespoons fresh dill 1 teaspoon lemon zest Salt and pepper to taste Pinch cayenne pepper 1/2 cup heavy cream Trim off stem of artichokes and cut off tips of leaves with scissors. Spread leaves and rinse well with water. Turn upside down and drain.

In a medium bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. One at a time, place artichokes in a bowl and spoon mixture into large leaves, spreading them to hold more. Use up all of the breadcrumb mixture for the two artichokes and sprinkle with garlic powder. Drizzle olive oil over stuffing.

Heat 2 inches of water in a large pot and place artichokes in the pot on a steamer basket. Cover and cook over low heat until artichokes are tender, about 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, make sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan. Sauté garlic in butter for a couple of minutes, stir in flour and cook, stirring, over low heat for a few minutes more. Add white wine, lemon juice, shrimp and seasonings.

Simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp turn pink. Over low heat, add heavy cream and heat.

Do not bring to a boil. Adjust seasonings and keep warm.

When ready to serve, place an artichoke in each of two bowls. Spoon sauce over artichokes. Serve with hot French bread. Serves 2 as entrées

Roasted Whole Fish 1 3-to 4-pound fish such as red snapper or drum, cleaned and scaled with head on 1/4 cup olive oil Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley 2 garlic cloves 1/4 cup minced green onion tops 1/4 cup minced herbs such as rosemary, thyme and/or mint 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1/4 cup red wine vinegar Place fish on a baking pan and make 2 or 3 slices into the fish diagonally across both sides. Rub with olive oil all over. Salt and pepper the fish inside and out, and sprinkle with some of the lemon juice.

Heat oven to 425 degrees.

Place fish in oven and roast on one side for 10 minutes. Turn and roast another 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, on a chopping board, mince the parsley, garlic, green onion tops and herbs. Place in a bowl and stir in pepper flakes, vinegar, remaining lemon juice and a little more salt and pepper.

Remove fish from oven and spread chopped seasonings under the fish, in its cavity and on top of the fish. Return to oven and continue roasting for 5 to 10 more minutes. Fish should be just done, still moist and flaky. Remove from oven and let set for 6 to 8 minutes before serving. Place on a platter and spoon herbed seasonings from pan over fish. To serve, slice portions from the top side of fish; turn and slice other side. Give the bony parts and tail to true fish lovers. Serves 4 to 6 myneworleans.com / MARCH 2015

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THE MENU / LAST CALL

Cabbages & Carrots – Olé!

The Irish Tea Party BY tim mcnally

N

ew Orleans is a city in many sectors. You can look at the town in light of our Old World heritage, or maybe you prefer to view the town by age groups, architectural styles, party preferences, restaurant types, bars, economic variations defined by blocks, streetcar service, water features, historic events or even parade routes.

Or you can consider New Orleans as a whole, on its own terms, a town not divided at all but as a magical sum of all the parts; each one essential to the ensemble and each one celebrated.

The sight this month of a parade honoring the patron saint of Ireland, marching through the Irish Channel, right past a Mexican restaurant featuring the cuisine of our neighbor to the south, isn’t anything unusual. Most folks won’t even look twice at the scene, let alone be amazed. They will be too busy with the passing parade of dazzling floats and marchers offering green beads. Catching cabbages, carrots, potatoes – all the makings of an Irish Stew except the meat – and wearin’ o’ the green will be the orders of the day.

Why not toss a couple of Irish cocktails into the celebration, alongside tostadas, tamales, guacamole, burritos and nachos?

Araña has made it quite easy to blend cultures and spirits.

It is the way we party and celebrate everyone’s life in America’s true melting pot. n

Irish Tea Party 2 ounces Jameson Irish whiskey 1.5 ounces green tea 1 splash agave nectar Sombra mezcal rinse

Pour mezcal into glass; swirl in glass and empty, leaving glass coated.

Combine whiskey, green tea and agave nectar into cocktail shaker with ice.

Shake. Strain and pour into “rocks” glass with ice and enjoy.

Created especially for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations by Araña, 3242 Magazine St. The Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade will proceed through the Irish Channel on Sat., March 14, starting at 1 p.m. Araña Taqueria y Cantina is on the parade route.

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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.

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. $$$

Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 Southern-inspired brunch specials. $$$

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. $

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. $$$$$ 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. $$$ Pete’s Pub Intercontinental Hotel, 444 St. Charles Ave., 585-5401, IcNewOrleans.com/dining/petes_pub. D Mon-Fri. Casual fare and adult beverages are served in this pub on the ground floor. $$ 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–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Camellia Grill 540 Chartres St., 5221800. B, L, D daily. A venerable diner whose essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned. This location has a liquor license and credit cards are now accepted. $

Faubourg Marigny–––––––––––––––––– 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–––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$

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. $$$ Caffe! Caffe! 3547 N. Hullen St., 2679190. B, L Mon-Sat. & 4301 Clearview Parkway, 885-4845. B, L daily; D MonSat. CaffeCaffe.com Healthy, refreshing meal options combine with gourmet coffee and espresso drinks to create a tasteful retreat for Metairie diners at a reasonable price. Try the egg white spinach wrap. $ Heritage Grill 111 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 934-4900, HeritageGrillMetairie. com. L Mon-Fri. This lunch-only destination caters to the office crowd and offers a freshly squeezed juice menu to go along with its regular menu and express two-course lunch. $$ 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 Mon-Sat. 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 ver-

Chappy’s Restaurant Reopens in New Orleans Chappy’s, 6106 Magazine St., 208-8772 Chappy’s Restaurant, which operated on the Mississippi Gulf Coast from 1984 until Katrina destroyed it in 2005, has reopened on Magazine Street.

Most recently located in Nashville, Tennessee, the new Chappy’s takes residence in the heart of Uptown and is run by chef John “Chappy” Chapman.

Chappy’s in Nashville was voted “Best in Nashville” for Creole/Cajun cuisine six years in a row. The Uptown location’s highlights include Fried Oysters Rockefeller served with spinach and brie, Shrimp Etouffee and Cajun Seafood Gumbo. Chappy’s is open seven nights a week for dinner and for Brunch on Sunday; it also features a Children’s Menu. – Mirella Cameran

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cheryl gerber photograph

sion 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. $$ Camellia Grill 626 S. Carrollton Ave., 3092679. B, L, D daily. A venerable diner whose essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned. Credit cards are now accepted. $ GG’s Dine-O-Rama 3100 Magazine St., 373-6579, GGsNewOrleans.com. B Sat, L, Tue-Sun, D Tue-Fri, Br Sun. Upscalecasual restaurant serves a variety of specialty sandwiches, salads and wraps, like the Chicago-style hot dog and the St. Paddy’s Day Massacre, chef Gotter’s take on the Rueben. $$ Martin Wine Cellar 3827 Baronne St., 8997411, MartinWine.com. Wine by the glass or bottle with cheeses and snacks to-go. $

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. $ 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. Cash only. $$ 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 winners.

Grab a local Abita beer to wash it all down.

Also a great location to watch the game. $

H Upperline 1413 Upperline St., 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. $$$$

H Wayfare 4510 Freret St., 309-0069, WayfareNola.com. L, D daily. Creative sandwiches and southern-inspired small plates. $$ Ye Olde College Inn 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-3683, CollegeInn1933.com. D Tue-Sat. Serves up classic fare, albeit with a few upscale dishes peppering the menu. $$$

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., 361-

Asian Fusion/ Pan Asian

8008. B, L, D daily. Roasted quail and the beef pho rule at this Vietnamese outpost. $$

CBD/Warehouse District–––––––––––

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. $$

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. $$

Horinoya 920 Poydras St., 561-8914. L, D daily. Excellent Japanese dining. The chutoro is delicious and the selection of authentic Japanese appetizers is the best. $$$ Rock-N-Sake 823 Fulton St., 581-7253, RockNSake.com. L Fri, D Tue-Sun, late night. Fresh sushi and contemporary takes on Japanese favorites in an upbeat, casual setting. $$$

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

Lakeview–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Metairie–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Aloha Sushi 619 Pink St., 837-0055, SunRayGrill.com. L Tue-Fri, D, Tue-Sun. Fresh fish and creative rolls, along with gluten-free options such as rolls in bowls, sushi burritos and other lunch friendly Japanese fare featured. $$

H Royal China 600 Veterans Blvd., 831-9633. L daily, D Tue-Sun. Popular and family-friendly Chinese restaurant is one of the few places around that serves dim sum. $$

MARRERO–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Daiwa, 5033 Lapalco Blvd., 875-4203, DaiwaSushi.com. L, D daily. Japanese

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DINING GUIDE 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. $

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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 Community Coffee House Multiple locations in New Orleans, Metairie and Northshore, CCsCoffee.com. Coffeehouse specializing in coffee, espresso drinks and pastries. $

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

Lakeview–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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. $

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. $

Lower Garden District–––––––––––––

METAIRIE––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Bywater––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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. $$

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. $

Metairie–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Riverbend–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Cowbell 8801 Oak St., 298-8689,

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. $$ Port of Call 838 Esplanade Ave., 5230120, PortOfCallNola.com. L, D daily. It is all about the big, meaty burgers and giant baked potatoes in this popular bar/ restaurant – unless you’re cocktailing only, then it’s all about the Monsoons. $$

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. $$$$

Faubourg St. John–––––––––––––––––––– H Café Degas 3127 Esplanade Ave., 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. $$

French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Broussard’s, 819 Conti St., 581-3866, Broussards.com. D daily, Br Sun. CreoleFrench institution also offers beautiful courtyard seating. $$$$

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. $$$

Lacombe–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H La Provence 25020 Highway 190, (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. $$$$$

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. $$$ La Petite Grocery 4238 Magazine St., 891-3377, LaPetiteGrocery.com. L TueSat, D daily, Br Sun. Elegant dining in a convivial atmosphere. The menu is heavily French-inspired with an emphasis on technique. $$$ Lilette 3637 Magazine St., 895-1636, LiletteRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D Mon-

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DINING GUIDE Sat. Chef John Harris’ innovative menu draws discerning diners to this highly regarded bistro. Desserts are wonderful as well. $$$$$

Gastropub

Abita Springs–––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$

CBD/Warehouse District–––––––––– 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. $$ Victory 339 Baronne St., 522-8664, VictoryNola.com. D Tue-Sat. Craft cocktails served by owner and acclaimed bartender Daniel Victory, as well as refined small plates and gourmet pizza. $$

French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– H Cane & Table 1113 Decatur St., 5811112, CaneAndTableNola.com. L Sat-Sun, D daily. Open late, this chef-driven rustic colonial cuisine and rum and “proto-Tiki” cocktails make this a fun place to gather. $$ 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. $$

Lower Garden District––––––––––––– 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. $$

Mid-City–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $ Bouligny Tavern 3641 Magazine St., 8911810, BoulignyTavern.com. D Mon-Sat. Carefully curated small plates, inventive 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

Avondale–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mosca’s 4137 Highway 90 West, 4638950, 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. $$$

Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mariza 2900 Charters St., 598-5700,

boy and Jerry’s jambalaya. Come for a late lunch to avoid the rush. $$ 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. $$ 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. $$$$$

Faubourg Marigny––––––––––––––––––– 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––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$$$

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. $$$

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. $$$

CBD/Warehouse District–––––––––– H Domenica The Roosevelt Hotel, 123

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. $$$$

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, feature locally raised products, some from chef John Besh’s Northshore farm. $$$$ 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

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. $$$

H Maximo’s Italian Grill 1117 Decatur St., 586-8883, MaximosGrill.com. D daily.

Italian destination features a sprawling

menu including housemade salumi and antipasti as well as old school classics like veal osso bucco. Private dining is offered for special events. $$$ Muriel’s Jackson Square 801 Chartres St., 568-1885, Muriels.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Enjoy pecan-crusted drum and other local classics while dining in the courtyard bar or any other room in this labyrinthine, rumored-to-be-haunted establishment. $$$$ Napoleon House 500 Chartres St., 524522-4152, NapoleonHouse.com. L Mon-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Originally built in 1797 as a respite for Napoleon, this family-owned European-style café serves local favorites gumbo, jambalaya and muffulettas, and for sipping, a Sazerac or lemony Pimm’s Cup are perfect accompaniments. $$ NOLA 534 St. Louis St., 522-6652, Emerils.com. L Thu-Mon, D daily. Emeril’s more affordable eatery, featuring cedar-plankroasted 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

Bombay Club And Martini Bistro Reopens Bombay Club and Martini Bistro, 830 Conti St., 577-2237, BombayClubNewOrleans.com French Quarter spot the Bombay Club and Martini Bistro at the Prince Conti Hotel has reopened with a newly renovated space, new chefs, new management and a new menu. Now operated by Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts, chef Nathan Richard, most recently at Restaurant R’evolution, will lead the kitchen. Blake Kaiser, most recently at Kingfish, will head up the bar. Keeping with tradition, a revolving selection of different local musicians will continue to entertain guests in the lounge seven nights a week. – M.C.

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cheryl gerber photo

brisket with Creole sauce. $$$$$

Lakeview––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Tony Angello’s 6262 Fleur de Lis Drive, 488-0888, TonyAngellos.com. D TueSat. 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.

Cash only. $$

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. $$$$

Louisianian Fare

CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Annunciation 1016 Annunciation St.,

NORTHSHORE–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Del Porto Ristorante 501 E. Boston

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. $$$

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. $$$

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. $$$$

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. $$ Pascal’s Manale 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, PascalsManale.com. L MonFri, D Mon-Sat. Vintage neighborhood restaurant since 1913 and the place to go for the creation of barbecued shrimp. Its oyster bar serves icy cold, freshly shucked Louisiana oysters and the Italian specialties and steaks are also solid. $$$$ Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, VicentsItalianCuisine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sun. Snug Italian boîte packs them in yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$

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 power-lunch favorite for business-people and politicos.

Also features the Swizzle Stick Bar. $$$$

H Cochon 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 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. $$ Drago’s Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 584-3911, DragosRestaurant. com. L, D daily. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$

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. $$$$$

H Herbsaint 701 St. Charles Ave., 5244114, Herbsaint.com. L Mon-Fri, D MonSat. 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. $$$$$ Mulate’s 201 Julia St., 522-1492, Mulates.com. L, D daily. Live music and dancing add to the fun at this worldfamous Cajun destination. $$ 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. $$

Darrow–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$ Latil’s Landing Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, HoumasHouse.com. D Wed-Sun. Nouvelle Louisiane, plantation-style cooking served in an opulent setting features

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DINING GUIDE dishes like rack of lamb and plume de veau. $$$$$

Faubourg Marigny––––––––––––––––––––

(truffle mac and cheese) to the upscale (tuna tasting trio) are served in an elegant courtyard. $$

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. $$$$

The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St., 586-0972, TheBombayClub. 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. $$$$

French Quarter–––––––––––––––––––––––

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. $

Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville St., 5225973, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$

H Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., 523-5433, ArnaudsRestaurant.com. D daily, Br Sun. Waiters in tuxedos prepare Café Brûlot tableside at this storied Creole grande dame; live jazz during Sun. brunch. $$$$$ Antoine’s 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422, Antoines.com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. This pinnacle of haute cuisine and birthplace of oysters Rockefeller is New Orleans’ oldest restaurant. (Every item is á la carte, with an $11 minimum.) Private dining rooms available. $$$$$

H The Bistreaux New Orleans Maison Dupuy Hotel, 1001 Toulouse St., 5868000, MaisonDupuy.com/dining.html. L, D daily. Dishes ranging from the casual

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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. $$$$$ Criollo Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., 681-4444, CriolloNola.com. B, L, D daily. Next to the famous Carousel Bar in the historic Monteleone Hotel, Criollo represents an amalgam of the various cultures reflected in Louisiana cooking and cuisine, often with a slight contemporary twist. $$$

H Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House 144 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. $$$$ Galatoire’s 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, Galatoires.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Friday lunches are a New Orleans tradition at this world-famous French-Creole grand dame. Tradition counts for everything here, and the crabmeat Sardou is delicious. Note: Jackets required for dinner and all day Sun. $$$$$ 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. $$ K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 416 Chartres St., 596-2530, ChefPaul.com/KPaul. L Thu-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Paul Prudhomme’s landmark restaurant helped introduce Cajun food to a grateful nation. Lots of seasoning and bountiful offerings, along with reserved seating, make this a destination for locals and tourists alike. $$$$

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. $$$$

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. $$$ SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, SoBouNola.com. B, L, D daily. There is something for everyone at this “Modern Creole Saloon.” Decidedly unstuffy with an emphasis on craft cocktails and wines by the glass. Everything from $1 pork cracklins to an extravagant foie gras burger on accomplished yet eclectic menus. $$

H Tableau 616 S. Peter St., 934-3463, 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. $$$

Kenner–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$

Lakeview–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Cava 789 Harrison Ave., 304-9034. D Mon-Sat. Fine dining (and excellent wine

cheryl gerber photograph

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. $$

Sunday brunch make this a neighborhood favorite. $$ 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. $

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. $$$

H Mandina’s 3800 Canal St., 482-9179,

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. $$

H Redemption 3835 Iberville St., 309-

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. $

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. $$$

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

MandinasRestaurant.com. L, D daily.

Though the ambiance is more upscale, the food and seafood dishes make dining here a New Orleans experience. $$ 3570, Redemption-Nola.com. L Wed-Fri & Sun, D Wed-Sun. Chef-driven “Revival” Creole fare served in an inspiring former church. $$$

H Toups’ Meatery 845 N. Carrollton

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. $$ Brigtsen’s 723 Dante St., 861-7610, Brigtsens.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Frank Brigtsen’s nationally famous Creole cuisine makes this cozy cottage a true foodie destination. $$$$$

University Area––––––––––––––––––––––– H Dunbar’s 501 Pine St., 861-5451. Beloved budget-friendly Creole institution in an unlikely spot – Loyola University’s Broadway campus – but the excellent jambalaya, fried chicken and red beans and rice haven’t changed. $

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. $$$ Casamento’s 4330 Magazine St., 8959761, CasamentosRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D Thu-Sat. The family-owned restaurant has shucked oysters and fried seafood since 1919; closed during summer and for all major holidays. $$ Chappy’s 6106 Magazine St., 208-8772, Chappys.com. D nightly, Br Sun. Tradition reigns supreme at Chappy’s on a genteel

stretch of Magazine Street near Audubon Park. Classics such as shrimop and eggplant casserole will be sure to please. $$$ Clancy’s 6100 Annunciation St., 8951111, ClancysNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Their Creole-inspired menu has been a favorite of locals for years. $$$ 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 deal. $$$$ Dick and Jenny’s 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 894-9880, DickAndJennys.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. A funky cottage serving Louisiana comfort food with flashes of innovation. $$$$ Domilise’s 5240 Annunciation St., 899912. 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. $$$$$ Jacques-Imo’s Cafe 8324 Oak St., 8610886, Jacques-Imos.com. D Mon-Sat. Reinvented New Orleans cuisine served in a party atmosphere. The deep-fried roast beef poor boy is delicious. The lively bar scene offsets the long wait on weekends. $$$$

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DINING GUIDE 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. $

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. $$ 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. $$$

the main draws at this establishment helmed by Greg Sonnier, as well as the excellent bar program by mixologist Chris McMillian. $$$ Landry’s Seafood 400 N. Peters St., 5580038, LandrysSeafood.com. Kid-friendly and popular seafood spot serves of heaping platters of fried shrimp, Gulf oysters, catfish and more. $$ 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. $$$ Oceana Grill 739 Conti St., 525-6002, OceanaGrill.com. B, L, D daily. Gumbo, poor boys and barbecue shrimp are served at this kid-friendly seafood destination. $$ 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 “CajunBoiled” Lobster prepared crawfish-style in spicy crab boil. $$$

Kenner–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

RioMarSeafood.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Seafood-centric destination focuses on Latin American and Spanish cuisines. Try the bacalaitos and the escabeche. The tapas lunch is a great way to try a little of everything.

Save room for the tres leches. $$$$

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. $$

French Quarter–––––––––––––––––––––––

Metairie––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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. $$$

Austin’s Restaurant, 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 888-5533, AustinsNo.com. D MonSat. Signature steak, seafood and Italian specialties reign at this dinner-only destination. Catering offered as well. $$$

H Rio Mar 800 S. Peters St., 525-3474,

Deanie’s Seafood 841 Iberville St., 5811316, 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

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. $$

West End––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$

Steakhouse

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

Dickie Brennan Restaurants To Offer Wine On Tap FrenchQuarter-Dining.com Tableau and Bourbon House are the first restaurants in the city to offer wine from a keg and tap system. Dickie Brennan has partnered with Jaegar Vineyards of Napa Valley to bring this new serving style to Louisiana. The serving system usually used for beer, has grown popular in both New York and the West Coast and has been used for centuries in Europe. According to Brennan: “Our guests can get exceptional wine at a value price point.” Both restaurants offer four wines ranging $6 to $10 a glass, as well as half and full carafes. – M.C.

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cheryl gerber photo

Beef served sizzling in butter are the hallmarks of this classic New Orleans steakhouse. $$$

Tue-Fri & Sun, D daily. One of the classic New Orleans steakhouses. Steaks, sides and drinks are what you get. $$$$

French Quarter–––––––––––––––––––––––

H Milkfish 125 N. Carrollton Ave., 267-

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. $$$$$

4199, MilkfishNola.com. L, D Thu-Tue. Filipino cuisine like adobo and lumpia is served, further expanding dining opportunities. $$

H Doris Metropolitan 620 Charters

Vegan/Vegetarian

St., 267-3500, DorisMetropolitan.com. L Sat-Sun, 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––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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

Byblos Multiple Locations, ByblosRestaurants.com. L, D daily. Upscale Middle Eastern cuisine featuring traditional seafood, lamb and vegetarian options. $$

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

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. $$ 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. $$

CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Lüke 333 St. Charles Ave., 378-2840, 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. $$$ Palace Café 605 Canal St., 523-1661, PalaceCafe.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily, Br Sun. Dickie Brennan-owned brasserie with French-style sidewalk seating and house-created specialties of chef Darrin Nesbit. Favorites here include crabmeat cheesecake, turtle soup, the Werlein salad with fried Louisiana oysters and pork “debris” studded Palace potato pie. $$$$$

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. $

French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– 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. $$

Lakewood–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mizado 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd., 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, 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. $$$

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. $$

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DINING GUIDE Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Juan’s Flying Burrito 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950, JuansFlyingBurrito. com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $ Lola’s 3312 Esplanade Ave., 488-6946, LolasNewOrleans.com. D daily. Garlicky Spanish dishes and great paella make this artsy boîte a hipster destination. $$$

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. $

H Taqueria Guerrero 208 N. Carrollton Ave., 484-6959. B, L, D, Tue-Sat. Friendly staff and authentic Mexican cuisine make this affordable neighborhood restaurant a neighborhood favorite. $

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

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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. $

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. 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. $$$

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., 525-8045, 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––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Blue Dot Donuts 5236 Tchoupitoulas St., 941-7675, 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.

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

If you feel that a restaurant has been misplaced, please email Managing Editor Morgan Packard at Morgan@MyNewOrleans.com.

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W

hile the holiday season may be described as such in song, many would argue that spring is “the most wonderful time of the year.”

In and around New Orleans, the season’s gorgeous weather and variety of events bring the area to life. Seasonal foods such as crawfish and strawberries make their way onto restaurant menus; shoppers look for warm-weather clothing and accessories; funseekers fill their calendars with festivals and activities; and homeowners use the season to reorganize, renovate and just take care of business. Whether you’re looking for food, fun, a new home or adventure, New Orleans and the surrounding region are full of restaurants, stores, service providers and things to do to make your season exciting and memorable.

Plan your next adventure into the city with the help of the following cures for spring fever.

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Arts & Entertainment French Quarter Phantoms has been named one of TripAdvisor’s Top Ten Ghost Tours in the World and The Discovery Channel’s “Official Best of Louisiana 2014!” For skeptics and believers alike, this tour is the perfect way to enjoy an evening in the French Quarter. Join French Quarter Phantoms Master Story Tellers for a lot of great laughs and some disturbing chills up your spine! With true tales of hauntings and horrors, you will be surprised to hear what some “nice” ladies and gentlemen are capable of doing! Family-friendly fun for locals and visitors, the tours begin at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. nightly.

Don’t miss French Quarter Phantoms’ newest tour additions, Saints and Sinners: A Dirty Little French Quarter History Tour and The New Orleans True Crime Tour. Join French Quarter Phantoms for the most interesting and unique tours in New Orleans. Online discounts are available at FrenchQuarterPhantoms.com.

Just arriving in New Orleans is a cultural experience, but imagine staying in a historic museum and former home to world-renowned Impressionist Edgar Degas. Degas House is a historic home and courtyard inn that plays host year round to weddings and receptions and special events for overnight bed & breakfast guests and art enthusiasts alike. Degas House is distinguished by the French Ministry of Culture through the French National Order of Arts and Letters. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only home or studio of Edgar Degas open to the public in the world.

Discover the story of the French Creoles, including Edgar Degas and his maternal family, hosted by the Great-Grand Nieces of the artist himself. The Edgar Degas House Creole Impressionist Tour includes exploring both Degas houses and viewing the award-winning documentary Degas in New Orleans, a Creole Sojourn. Also included is the Creole Neighborhood of Edgar Degas Walking Tour, which explores references to the neighborhood included in Degas’ New Orleans letters.

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reservations, wedding and event information, visit DegasHouse.com.

A dynamic arts institution nestled among the live oaks of Tulane University, the Newcomb Art Gallery was born out of the rich creative legacy of Newcomb College, internationally renowned for its fine arts program and pottery studio.

The gallery sustains Newcomb’s heritage of design innovation and social enterprise by presenting diverse shows by historically significant and noted contemporary artists, with a particular focus on women, interdisciplinary studies and community.

Through May 24, the gallery presents “Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist, Works on Paper by the Artist and His Circle” with drawings, prints and sculpture from a single private collection.

The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more at NewcombArtGallery.tulane.edu or call 865-5328.​ The gallery and its programs are free and open to the public.

On Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m., the sounds of the 1960s will come alive at the Mahalia Jackson Theatre, starring the critically acclaimed group The Midtown Men, singing their favorite hits from the Beatles, The Rascals, The Turtles, Motown, The Four Seasons and more. They took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of all time. Now on their fifth national tour, The Midtown Men are bringing their magic to New Orleans with a sensational production reuniting four stars from the original Broadway cast of Jersey Boys. Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony Award nominee J. Robert Spencer star in this one-of-a-kind concert experience celebrating the music that defined the ’60s. Don’t miss this electrifying and soulful new production with its top-shelf choreography, incredible vocal performances and legendary onstage chemistry. New Orleans natives, The Yat Pack open the show, which benefits Team Gleason.

Hurricane Promotions specializes in production and promotion of high quality musical entertainment with strong emphasis on fundraising for this community. Tickets to the one-night-only performance are available through Ticketmaster, Saenger Theater Box Office, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

On Saturday, March 21, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orléans will present the only festival celebrating the French Heritage in New Orleans. Located at 821 General Pershing St. (between Magazine and Constance streets), Fête Française is free and welcomes the public to enjoy all things French: the language, cuisine, art and music.

The event is known for its exceptional food and drink, which is specially curated from the area’s top-tier restaurants and fine wine purveyors with more than 30 restaurants participating.

The musical lineup includes local favorites such as Lost Bayou Ramblers, The Stooges Brass Band and Naughty Professor. Other activities include games, face and hair painting, a rock-climbing wall, a dunk tank, pony rides, a puppet theatre, French dog royalty, a fine art market with

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pop-up trunk shows, live and silent auctions, a raffle and a few top-secret surprises.

For more information, please visit FeteFrancaise.com or call 896-4500.

Embark on an exciting trek across the globe at the 17th Annual Children’s World’s Fair on Saturday, March 28, at the Louisiana Children’s Museum. Sponsored by Dow, the Children’s World’s Fair is a unique, day-long journey that explores cultural diversity in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (S.T.E.M.). Travelers will delight as they enjoy lively, cultural performances and explore the games, music, literature, native attire, crafts and flavors of destinations including Canada, Denmark, Guatemala, Israel, Nigeria, Romania, Tibet and Venezuela.

“Over the course of 17 years, the Children’s World’s Fair has introduced more than 175 countries and regions of the world to children and families in our community,” says Julia Bland, CEO of the Louisiana Children’s Museum.

“The Children’s World’s Fair provides children with an appreciation of what is unique and universal to the customs of our global community – making our big world seem a little smaller.”

General admission tickets are $20 per person. Advance general admission tickets for LCM members are $16 per person. To learn more about the Louisiana Children’s Museum’s Children’s World’s Fair visit lcm.org or call 2662415.

The French Market District is comprised of a scenic sixblock stretch along the Mississippi River in the New Orleans French Quarter from Café du Monde to the Farmers and Flea Markets includes The Shops on the Colonnade on Decatur Street and The Shops at the Upper Pontalba on Jackson Square.

Experience historic architecture, sidewalk dining, live music, boutique shopping and plenty of affordable souvenirs, from locally made pralines and spices to artwork and cookbooks. Riverside parking, streetcar stops, nearby horse-drawn carriages and pedicab stations make this a relaxing and manageable daytime destination.

The French Market District is open seven days a week, 365 days a year, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (with some restaurants open later). Every Wednesday, the Crescent City Farmers Market produces a fresh farmers market from 2-6 p.m. The annual French Market Creole Tomato Festival has been happening for nearly 30 years every June and will be held June 13-14. View the full calendar of events including daily walking tours, concerts and classes at FrenchMarket.org.

Ninth in a line of steamboats dating back to the 1880s, the Steamboat NATCHEZ provides guests with a magnificent, one-of-a-kind view of New Orleans and an unparalleled atmosphere of New Orleans tradition, food, music and romance. Even locals are surprised to get this view of the city from the decks of this authentic sternwheeler. Their day cruises liven the excursion with the toe-tapping music of Duke Heitger’s Steamboat Stompers.

Step aboard and listen to the calls of the Steam Calliope as you depart from the heart of the French Quarter.

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Make your way through the museum-quality steam engine room and listen as the river comes alive through the live historic and port narration during the two-hour cruises.

Delicious New Orleans cuisine and libations are available with lunch and snacks. Enjoy a sunset on the river during the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Tap your toes to the Grammy-winning Dukes of Dixieland Jazz band as you feast on decadent entrees and dazzling specialty drinks.

Weddings, birthdays and holiday celebrations are always special on the Steamboat Natchez. Visit the steamboat online and make reservations at SteamboatNatchez.com.

Hoshun Restaurant

Local Food & Drink Crescent City Steakhouse is proud to have served six generations of New Orleanians over the past 80 years and

the tradition continues. Crescent City Steakhouse serves only the finest aged prime beef cut in-house daily by Chef Benard. They preserve what was old-school, New Orleansstyle, still preparing all salad dressings, side dishes, handcut potatoes and desserts in-house daily.

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Rock-n-Sake

Crescent City Steakhouse is a walk back in time, keeping the tradition alive with a simple elegance. The restaurant is located in the historic Faubourg St. John neighborhood just a short cab ride from downtown. They offer on-site parking at no extra charge.

Crescent City Steakhouse is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Banquet and private event space is available. Come see where the tourists meet the locals.

Reservations are recommended. For reservations and information, call 821-3271 or visit CrescentCitySteaks.com.

Amazing history, elegant, old-world ambiance and delectable Creole cuisine come together at The Court of Two Sisters in the French Quarter. Located at 613 Royal St., this old-line New Orleans restaurant is where locals and visitors from around the world come to enjoy traditional Creole cuisine in the largest courtyard in the French Quarter.

Dinner is a romantic, memorable occasion. Dinner entrees include Roasted Half Duck over sautéed kale and rice Sucré with bourbon praline sauce and Grilled Gulf Fish with roasted corn maque choux.

Choose from hors d’oeuvres of Bacon-wrapped shrimp with citrus beurre blanc and Pan Fried Rabbit Loin with lemon caper butter.

Guests are served under flickering gaslights in the courtyard or in one of three elegant dining rooms.

During the day, the Jazz Brunch Buffet provides a lavish display of hot and cold dishes served alongside live Dixieland music.

The restaurant is available to host special events in a beautiful setting all summer

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long. Open seven days a week, the Jazz Brunch Buffet is served from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Romantic Creole Dinners are served nightly from 5:30-10 p.m. Reservations are recommended. For more information visit CourtOfTwoSisters.com or call 5227261.

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 SouthAsian 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.

Visitors 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 302-9716. Located at 1601 St. Charles Ave., Hoshun offers a private party room overlooking the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line fitting between 25-70 people.

Rock-n-Sake is known across South Louisiana as being where “The Music Rocks and the Food Rolls!” With locations in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Rock-n-Sake is known for its rockin’ atmosphere and expansive menu of sushi, small plates, signature sake drinks, sashimi, noodles, entrées and sweets.

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Fan favorites include the Salmon Zest Roll, which features snow crab and salmon topped with fresh salmon and freshly grated lemon zest served with a spicy ponzu dipping sauce. Of course there’s also the LSU Roll, with tempura shrimp and cream cheese rolled with layers of snowcrab, avocado tuna on the outside, and drizzled with eel sauce.

Rock-n-Sake’s small plates pack big flavor in dishes such as the Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps, a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the Sushi Deviled Eggs, which take the classic dish to another level.

In New Orleans, the private party room known as the KAI Lounge can seat up to 55 comfortably and is equipped with its own custom sushi bar and advanced Audio/Visual capabilities.

For reservations, catering or additional information, visit RocknSake.com. Winner of the People’s Choice Award at New Orleans’ inaugural Sushi Fest!

Combining exceptional artistry and culinary skill, nationally renowned Executive Chef Tariq Hanna and confectioners at Sucré use seasonal flavors to satisfy the sweet tooth of New Orleans. Award-winning French macarons, artisan chocolate bars, Big Awesome Cookies, gourmet drinking chocolates, hand-made marshmallows, southern candied pecans, gourmet coffee, and gelato traditional King Cakes are featured at their two current locations and at the recently opened French Quarter location at 622 Conti St. All of Sucré’s desserts, sweet treats and holiday collections make perfect gifts for family, friends and coworkers. Party hosts, delivery and curbside pick-up are available. Orders may be placed online and shipped nationwide.

Sucré French Quarter will also debut their new restaurant and private event venue, Salon. It’s Sucré’s take on afternoon tea and night service, including savory and sweet menus, with a sophisticated wine list and specialty cocktails.

Sucré confectioners proudly use Louisiana cane sugar, produce and dairy in their high quality, locally made treats.

Celebrate your special day with Sucré’s one-of-a-kind specialty and wedding cakes in a variety of flavors. Visit Sucré at 3025 Magazine St., right outside Lakeside Mall in the French Quarter. To place orders online, visit ShopSucre.com.

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Arnaud's

This spring, join Tivoli & Lee for Whiskey Social Club!

Executive Chef Marcus Woodham will team up with Buffalo Trace Distillery to present a monthly Whiskey dinner series, celebrating the best of South Louisiana cuisine and American Whiskey. This month’s dinner will take place on Thursday, March 19, and will feature a four-course pre-fixe menu paired with whiskey-focused cocktails for $65 per person. Reservations are recommended, but not required. After dinner, stop by the acclaimed Bellocq, for a post-evening cocktail, named by Esquire Magazine as “One of the Best Bars in America.” The Hotel Modern always provides complimentary parking for guests of Tivoli & Lee and Bellocq.

For upcoming whiskey dinner dates and other events, please call 962-0900 or visit TivoliAndLee.com/event/ whiskey-social-club-4/ for more information.

Located just steps off Bourbon Street in the heart of the beloved French Quarter, Arnaud’s offers classic Creole cuisine and exemplary service in its beautifully restored, turn-of-the-century dining rooms. Since its inception in 1918, Arnaud’s has remained true to its traditions and courtesies.

Enjoy live Dixieland Jazz in the Jazz Bistro, authentic New Orleans dining in the Main Dining Room, cocktails in the world renowned French 75 Bar and 14 private dining rooms perfect for any occasion. Arnaud’s delivers a quintessential New Orleans experience for locals and visitors alike.

This spring, celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with Arnaud’s for a truly memorable dining experience with family and friends. Arnaud’s is open nightly for dinner and private dining, and offers brunch every Sunday. For more information or to make reservations, call 523-5433 or visit ArnaudsRestaurant.com.

Copeland’s of New Orleans combines New Orleans flavor and comfort in a casual dining atmosphere. Known for its from-scratch cuisine, Copeland’s blends the freshest premium ingredients, sauces and seasonings to bring

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out the robust signature flavors of New Orleans in every dish – seafood, pasta, salads, steaks and more. Enjoy exceptional food and hospitality by stopping at one of their locations today.

Copeland’s is featuring its new Seafood Menu full of Cajun Creole flavors and Secret Copeland Family Spices! Each dish has been paired with a featured wine to bring out the best flavors in their seafood. Try the new Onion Petals or the Crab Stuffed Beignets as an appetizer. Choose from the new Creole Tuna Salad, Bronzed Salmon with Jambalaya Couscous, Shrimp Magnolia Pasta (always a favorite) or the Shrimp Remoulade Poor Boy. For more information on Copeland’s of New Orleans, including menus and locations, visit CopelandsOfNewOrleans.com.

The Bombay Club and Martini Bar at the Prince Conti Hotel in the French Quarter has recently reopened after a beautiful renovation. Bartender Blake Kaiser is excited to present his unique and extensive bar offerings, along with a refreshed menu from chef Nathan Richard. Blake is a New Orleans barman always on the search for the perfect cocktail, serving classic libations and more than two dozen signature martinis, such as the popular The Original Dry and The Bombay Club, as well as a full selection of wines.

Chef Richard’s passion for the art of charcuterie and Louisiana specialties shows in his Cajun-twists to the quasiBritish menu. Expect items such as bangers and grits with black pudding and onion pan gravy, Scotch eggs served with boudin and collard greens and cracklin’-crusted fish and chips.

Live music showcases a changing collection of local New Orleans jazz musicians, small ensembles and cabaret performers who entertain guests in the lounge area seven nights a week. For more information on the Bombay Club and Martini Bar and its signature drinks or dinner menu, please visit BombayClubNewOrleans.com or call 577-2237 to make reservations.

A true New Orleans original, PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans was founded in 1978 by Phyllis Jordan, a pioneer in the coffee industry who demonstrated that better beans, superior roasting techniques and pure passion for the art of coffeemaking mattered. PJ’s 75 locations serve a wide variety of hot, iced, frozen coffee beverages using only the top one percent of Arabica beans, plucked by hand at the peak ripeness – from Sumatra to Ethiopia, from Colombia to Brazil – everywhere the best coffee grows. PJ’s is also known as a prime destination for organic teas and fresh-baked breakfast pastries.

PJ’s famous iced coffees are brewed daily using a special cold-drip process that protects the flavor and strength of the beans, while producing a coffee that is 2/3 less acidic, a process pioneered by their founder. Bags of whole bean

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Dickie Brennan's Tableau

coffee and single serve cups of PJ’s Coffee are available for sale in-store throughout the city and region, as well as online. Find the locations nearest you and shop online at PJsCoffee.com.

Spring is in the air and Dickie Brennan’s Tableau offers the best in outdoor dining to soak in the beautiful weather. Between the courtyard with the whispering fountain and the balcony with the best view of Jackson Square, the options are plentiful.

They also have an amazing happy hour. Happy hour happens daily from 3-7 p.m. and offers half price beer and wine on tap, $5 classic cocktails and $6 small plates. Happy hour is available at the main bar, as well as in their upstairs Drawing Room.

If you’re hankering for something a bit more substantial, lunch and dinner is served daily as well as Jazz Brunch on Sunday. The lunch menu has all the favorites from dinner, in addition to lunch entrees, including a two course $14 Chef’s Lunch. Dinner won’t disappoint, with entrees like the renowned Chicken Tableau and the noteworthy New Orleans style BBQ Lamb.

For menus, reservations and more, visit TableauFrenchQuarter.com.

This spring, try the healthiest, long-term weight loss plan available. Well Store, located next to

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Earthsavers in Metairie, has made losing weight simple and fun. The Well Weight Loss Plan retrains your metabolism with healthy, whole foods and supplements – no gimmicks! You’ll lose fat, not muscle, accelerate your metabolism and feel energized. Women lose up to two pounds per week and men are losing up to four pounds a week. Well Weight Loss is customized to meet your personal needs by a licensed dietitian, all without food deprivation – eat more, not less, of the right foods.

First, choose your plan. The threeweek plan includes three weekly visits with a dietitian or health expert and one organic smoothie per visit. The 12-week plan includes 12 weekly visits with your dietitian or health expert, 20 percent off all supplements associated with the plan, one smoothie per visit, a free grocery Five Hapinness tour weekly and biomat sessions for meeting goals.

Add in helpful recipes crafted by Well dietitians, tips and ideas to keep you on track to experience what it is to live “Well.” Visit WellCompany.com or call 5936955 to schedule an appointment.

At Red Gravy, you can enjoy delicious, handmade Italian food even if you are gluten-free. Owner Roseann Melisi Rostoker’s conventional ravioli is made with 00 flour, imported from Italian yard eggs, with a different filling each day and a sugo to complement the filling. Fillings include quattro formaggi, butternut squash, roasted carrot with rabbit, chestnut, veal porcini mushroom.

The gluten-free ravioli is paleo-made. Paleo, a “caveman” diet, spotlights meat/protein, good fats, low carbs and healthful produce. The ravioli dough is made with almond flour, arrowroot flour, tapioca, flour and yard eggs. The gluten-free ravioli is typically served with quattro formaggi filling and a fresh pomodoro sauce. Roseann also makes gluten-free lasagna and gluten-free fresh fettuccine.

View the weekday brunch, weekend brunch, and dinner dolce menus and make your reservations online at RedGravyCafe.com, or call 561-8844. “Please come and eat,” says Roseann, “I always make too much.”

Next time you are enjoying the beautiful spring weather in the French Quarter, 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 & 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 the Bayou Club. While you are there, ask about the new Hand Grenade® Martini!

Tropical Isle® celebrates its 30th anniversary all year long.

Enjoy big screen TV’s at Funky Pirate, Bayou Club, Tropical

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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. For sample menus and wine lists, visit OrleansGrapevine.com.

This year, Nonna Randazzo’s celebrates “A Tradition in Baking” with an exceptional 50 years of experience in baking! Felix and Joel Randazzo Forjet have many years of experience in the bakery business with roots at the renowned Randazzo’s Hi Lan Bakery. Joel’s father, Lawrence, started the original Randazzo’s along with his brothers back in 1965 and taught Felix, Joel’s husband, to bake when he was only a teen.

Nonna Randazzo’s Italian Bakery & Café opened in Covington during September 2006 and now has additional locations in Chalmette and Mandeville. It is a year-round, full-service bakery providing scrumptious desserts, freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes and lunch items. Nonna’s warm, casual atmosphere makes it a great lunch spot for friends and colleagues. Spring is a popular wedding season and Nonna Randazzo’s is your go-to bakery for beautiful, professional and tasty wedding cakes.

For more information on offerings and locations, visit NonnaRandazzo.com.

Chappy’s Restaurant specializes in seafood and steaks with a strong emphasis on the Creole-Cajun style of cooking.

Wild-caught salmon and tuna, as well as scallops, speckled trout, redfish, shrimp and oysters are highlights on the nightly menu along with lamb, chicken and steaks. The restaurant proudly incorporates products from local dairies, farmers and meat purveyors. Chappy’s is home of the famous Pork Chop Napoleon, two blackened pork chops stuffed with oyster dressing and fried oysters drizzled with

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French tarragon Béarnaise.

Entrées are served with a side item and a cup of Shrimp Bisque or a garden mix of greens with cherry tomatoes, shaved purple onions and julienned carrots. All salad dressings and desserts are made at the Restaurant. Small plates are $10 or less and include the Pepper Seared Tuna, Shrimp & Eggplant Casserole and Fried Oysters Rockefeller.

Chappy’s Restaurant offers a full bar with wine and beer lists.

Private dining and special events are available at the restaurant. Sunday Brunch runs $15 for three courses. Call 208-8772 to make reservations or book your function. View menus and more online at Chappys.com.

Celebrate the spring season within the historical walls of the oldest family-run restaurant in the country, Antoine’s Restaurant. This charming, acclaimed regal French-Creole restaurant will celebrate 175 years of French Quarter service throughout 2015 with special events and menus.

Numerous events aimed at honoring Antoine’s long history will include galas, block parties and fundraisers for various organizations. Antoine’s 175th birthday party will be a year-long celebration for the acclaimed New Orleans fine dining institution.

Antoine’s popular three-course lunch menu will continues this year, changing as it does by a penny a year. Visit Antoine’s online for the $20.15 Lunch Menu as well as for more info and reservations. Visit Antoines.com or call 5814422.

Five Happiness New Orleans’s award-winning Chinese restaurant offers a delicious menu of Sichuan and Hunan specialties in a newly 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 sitdown dinners to buffets or cocktails with hors d’oeuvres and prices ranging from $20-$45 per person. For more information, call 482-3935 or visit FiveHappiness.com.

You love their delicious salads, sandwiches and soups for lunch; now try hot breakfast at both Metairie locations of Caffe! Caffe! All of your breakfast favorites are made from scratch daily. Enjoy wraps, biscuits, or seven-grain wheat breakfast sandwiches with eggs and bacon and creamy homemade grits. At lunchtime, try one of their new menu items including the Asian Grilled Chicken Salad with edamame, roasted and sliced almonds atop mixed greens with carrots, red cabbage, crispy wonton strips, finished with their signature spicy Peanut-Lime dressing. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, opt for the Creamy Mac with all the good stuff you love: mac, cream, cheese and butter!

Call to find out the daily specials at their locations on Clearview at 885-4845 or North Hullen at 267-9190. Visit CaffeCaffe.com to view breakfast, lunch or catering menus.

Get Active!

Nationally, the Y has been a leader in providing summer camp for nearly 130 years. The YMCA of Greater New Orleans continues to give youth an enriching, safe experience with caring staff and volunteers who model positive values that help build their kids’ character. Summer camp is an integral part to a child’s growth and development during their formative years. The YMCA’s summer camp program works to nurture child development by teaching kids how to cultivate healthy relationships, build self-esteem, discover new talents, learn to be part of a team and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

The YMCA’s New Orleans summer camp program spans 11 weeks of fun and runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day at each YMCA facility across the region. For more information on the Y’s summer camp program and how to enroll, visit YMCANewOrleans.org.

Trainer To Go, a mobile personal training business in the Greater New Orleans area, is creating new and exciting ways to work out through one-on-one personal training and group fitness classes. The owners, Ron and Jessie Morel, have a combined 30 years of experience in the fitness industry and are thrilled to be able to offer a more convenient way for their clients to exercise. What better way than to allow Trainer To Go to bring the gym to you at home or work, at your convenience?

For those who prefer group classes, Trainer To Go recently opened an intimate boutique training studio in Old Metairie where Ron, Jessie and their team of fantastic trainers host fun, innovative and most importantly, ultra effective small group classes like Cardio Kickboxing, Body Blast Boot Camp Suspension Pilates. You can visit the studio and meet the trainers at their Open House before the Metairie Road St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 15. Whether you’re just beginning your fitness journey or you’re an exercise pro, Trainer To Go has something for you.

Find out more by visiting TrainerToGoNOLA.com or calling 994-3822.

Brother Martin High School is a Brothers of the Sacred Heart school for boys in 8th through 12th grades. Brother Martin is committed to holistic education with a focus on personal attention, academic excellence and strong character formation. A District 9-5A school, Brother Martin offers a full range of LHSAA athletic teams for all grade levels. Students can also choose from more than 80 extracurricular activities.

This summer, Brother Martin will offer summer camp for boys 6-12 years old. Camp will run from June 1 through July 10. Mornings will be dedicated to sports, with scheduled activities or field trips occurring in the afternoons. Specialty sports camps in baseball (boys 8-14 years old) and basketball (boys entering third through eighth grades) will be held July 13-July 17 and July 2024, respectively. Before and after care is also available at an additional charge. A camp brochure is available at BrotherMartin.com.

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View the extensive line of celebratory accessories or create your own custom order of party products online at PartyCupExpress.com. From tailgating essentials to elegant wine glasses, Party Cup Express is your go-to local party provider.

Shopping In a town as decadent as New Orleans, everyone is bound to have a friend who’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 New Orleans, but in the U.S.! As the first non-import based cork company in the U.S., QUEORK is a local business that specializes in fine cork 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, 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.

Out-of-season Mardi Gras beads are the No. 1 giveaway of a tourist in New Orleans, but fortunately for locals, Mardi Gras and party-themed cups are both useful and welcomed all year round, especially during festival season! Whether you’re gearing up for a festival, planning a crawfish boil or organizing a bachelorette weekend, Party Cup Express produces a variety of drinkware and accessories, as well as custom products, for those looking to add a little lagniappe to their fun and festive gatherings.

Party Cup Express is a division of Giacona Container Co., known locally as the originator of the Mardi Gras throw cup. Additionally, 99 percent of their products are made in the U.S., with 100 percent printed in the U.S., mostly right here in New Orleans.

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“Experience the superlative … Service … Shopping and Selection,” which is iconic to Saks Fifth Avenue. For more than 30 years, Saks Fifth Avenue New Orleans has “Lived The Legacy” of their Fifth Avenue flagship store. SAKS features the largest collection of designer men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, jewelry, shoes and beauty in three states.

“We continually update the shopping environment, most recently with our expanded Louis Vuitton, GUCCI Prada boutiques. CHANEL Beauté is a one-of-a kind installation that I personally invite everyone to visit. With our new corporate leadership, we are expecting new collections and enhanced assortments,” says Carolyn Elder, VP and General Manager.

As a philanthropic leader in the community, the store has supported and donated to more than 100 local and regional charities. Continuing this tradition, the fine jewelry collection of DAVID WEBB will make its debut on March 25, with a percentage of sales going to a worthy New Orleans organization. Visit SAKS in The Shops at Canal Place (301 Canal St.). Call the store at 524-2200.

While Trashy Diva is a distinctly New Orleans clothing company with six locations spread across the city, their vintage-inspired designs are known and coveted worldwide. For more than 18 years, Trashy Diva has provided customers with vintage flair and classic style. Original 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, with styles available up to a size 24.

Spring is in full bloom at Trashy Diva, with their newest collections: Geisha Fan, Jade, Watercolor and Irish Polka. Their clothing, lingerie, and shoe boutiques are stocked with trendy florals and polka dots.

Visit Trashy Diva’s new French Quarter lingerie boutique at 712 Royal St. to shop all the lingerie and shapewear needed for a perfect hourglass.

Celebrating a bachelorette or birthday party? From bustiers to burlesque, host an after-hours event with Trashy Diva Lingerie for a memorable night of fun and entertainment. For more information, visit TrashyDiva. com or call 299-3939.

Since 2005, the Northshore has been home to a

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years. You can expect the same exceptional service in the future as you have had in the past at Saint Germain now with the Donald J Pliner brand.” – Faye Cannon, former owner of Saint Germain With the shift from Saint Germain to Donald J Pliner, the store welcomes shoppers to celebrate this exciting transition with a personal visit by Designer Donald J Pliner to the store on March 13. Lisa, his wife and co-creative director, will also be present.

locally owned and nationally known boutique that has rescued women from years of discomfort and misguided purchases. Bra Genie, the creation of bra-fitting expert Jeannie Emory, has grown from a one-on-one home fitting service to a full-scale 3,500-squarefoot Mandeville store with a team of 16 experienced fitters and an inventory of more than 10,000 bras, panties, shapewear, bra-sized swimwear and accessories. With the largest inventory in the south, Bra Genie stocks sizes 28-50 in bands and cup sizes AA-KK. The results of a proper bra fitting at Bra Genie often surprise women. A great-fitting bra can make a woman appear 10 lbs. lighter by elongating the torso, lifting the breasts and in some cases eliminating back or neck pain.

Bra Genie offers a unique “Fit Guarantee” for your bra purchases.

Open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and located at 2881 Highway 190, Bra Genie welcomes walk-ins. This month, Bra Genie will open a Towne Center location in Baton Rouge. For more information, visit TheBraGenie.com or call 985-951-8638 to speak to a bra fit specialist.

“For over 30 years, Saint Germain has brought unique designer shoes and accessories to New Orleans, carrying the Donald J Pliner brand exclusively for the past 10 years and building a strong and special relationship between the store and the brand. Now, Saint Germain will join Donald J Pliner to expand the women’s shoe line and handbags, plus introduce men’s shoes and accessories to The Shops at Canal Place. We will continue to bring designer collections of fine jewelry and hair accessories. At this eventful time, I want to say thank you to you, the customers of Saint Germain, for your friendships and loyalty throughout the

Donald J Pilner

Located at 629 N. Carrollton Ave., söpö sits in the heart of Mid-City New Orleans. Söpö offers a unique collection of carefully curated women’s wear, great for real women who like to look good and stay comfortable while living it up in New Orleans. The boutique also carries gifts for men, women and babies with a special emphasis on locally made goods when possible.

This month, söpö welcomes amazing new spring arrivals in women’s fashion. Proud of the extensive number of unique lines offered to customers, söpö invites shoppers to share in the excitement of new lines coming in from renowned designers such as Ace & Jig, Nadia Tarr, Ilana Kohn and the colorful new seasonal prints from Porridge.

For more details about söpö, visit SopoNola.com, like the store on Facebook and follow on both Twitter and Instagram at @soponola.

Home Design & Resources Celebrate spring with a new look for your home!

Visit Floor & Decor Design Gallery at 2801 Magazine St. Prepare to be inspired by their vast selection of

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tile, wood, bamboo, laminate, marble, travertine, granite and slate. With thousands of square feet of material in stock, Floor & Decor also promises unbeatable prices, even on specialty, high-end decorative tile. With the largest in-stock selection of Carrara Marble in New Orleans and multiple varieties of Reclaimed Heart Pine flooring, Floor & Decor can provide a look that will wow your guests for years to come.

Conveniently located with off-street parking, Floor & Decor offers complimentary design services from their staff of friendly designers, happy to help with any project, large or small. Floor & Decor offers delivery, installation and financing, as well as weekly DIY classes.

For more info, call 891-3005 or visit FloorAndDecor.com. In Gretna, visit 4 Westside Shopping Center or call 361-0501.

Exterior Designs, Inc. is a full-service design and build landscaping company offering construction, installation and project management for residential or commercial landscapes. Voted “Best of Houzz” in the Design category for 2015, Exterior Designs’ recent projects include St. George Episcopal School, Touro Synagogue and Bisso Towboat.

Imagine coming home after work and retiring to your own backyard to escape the stresses of your day. Exterior Designs by Beverly Katz, New Orleans’ original courtyard designer, has been helping homeowners find solitude in creating unique meditation gardens that soothe the soul and rejuvenate the mind. By combining calming colors with neatly pruned plants and shrubs, Beverly Katz creates an outdoor haven where homeowners can relax and unwind.

An interior designer before realizing her talent for

landscape architecture, Beverly Katz has a keen eye for detail combined with an affinity for perfection. Because of her background, her creations are an extension of her clients’ homes. When Beverly visits for the initial consultation, she takes note of the client’s design aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the home’s interior.

Visit ExteriorDesignsBev.com for design inspiration or call 866-0276 for a consultation.

New Orleans is by far one of the best places to live! Take it from John Schaff, fifth generation New Orleanian and renowned real estate agent. The real estate market is hotter than it has been in years and inventories are lower than they’ve been. New Orleans’ cost of living is still lower than most cities with half the offerings. New Orleans is still a big town with a small town mentality, where you can shop and eat at some of the finest restaurants in the world that reflect the unique flavor of the Big Easy!

John Schaff is excited to announce the latest redevelopment of the Cabana Club Apartments. This midcentury modern apartment house, at 2833 St. Charles Ave., is being renovated into 40 beautifully designed condos with all of the modern amenities. All units boast beautiful wood floors throughout, new kitchens from Cabinets by Design, marble countertops by Mediterranean Tile, washer/dryer and central air and heat. Call John Schaff at 343-6683 or go to NOLARealtor.com for more information. You can take a virtual tour at CabanaClubGardens.com.

Alternative Insurance Solutions, founded by Jeremy Scobey, is a New Orleans-based resource for homeowners looking

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to insure their homes from damages from fires, hurricanes, theft and flooding. Additionally, Alternative Insurance Solutions provides insurance for businesses as well as offering auto insurance, both personal and commercial, covering one auto or a fleet of autos. The agency also sells general liability for artisan contractors like roofers, plumbers, electricians, painters, framers and general contractors.

“I really love structures, whether it is a house, an apartment complex, condo association, a strip mall or office building,” says Scobey. “My first real success story is saving a condo association over $50,000 on their annual insurance premium, saving them about 35 percent on their premium,” he says. Scobey’s previous experience as a mortgage broker gives him added expertise in working with realtors, lenders, title companies and builders.

For more information or for insurance assistance, call Alternative Insurance Solutions at 464-3000.

For a custom closet, pantry, home office or garage, superior service is available in your neighborhood.

Since 2003, Louisiana Custom Closets has been tailoring rooms, shelves, hampers, hutches and more to fit the needs of residents in South Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast. Don Wise, the company’s founder, has been designing closets for more than 20 years. Wise has an unparalleled commitment to customer service, sometimes spending hours listening to the unique wants and needs a client has for the space in his or her home.

Louisiana Custom Closets uses leading technology and software for design, providing clients with computergenerated images. They use high quality materials and custom-build each closet in their warehouse—from the slanted shelves for shoes and the various rods and valets for hanging clothes to the spacious hutch drawers and cubicles for purses, sweaters and more. With competitive pricing, Louisiana Custom Closets will find an affordable solution to your home needs.

Visit LouisianaCustomClosets.com or call for a free estimate: 985-871-0810 or 885-3188.

At NOLA Rugs, owner Sharon Schenck and staff strive to bring you the most beautiful rugs in the world. With close attention to quality and affordability, NOLA Rugs keeps more than 2,000 rugs in stock and can source rugs from all international weaving areas. Sharon Schenck has traveled the world for more than 40 years as a direct importer. Her goal is to provide clients with a full range of rugs – from century-old antiques, European-inspired rugs and classic Orientals, to cutting-edge rugs. Each handmade rug takes months or years to weave and carries the skill and magic of the human hand.

“At NOLA Rugs, the most important thing that we offer is our experience, integrity and service,” says Schenck.

“Finding the correct rug can sometimes be a confusing task.

Our job is to help make your experience as easy and as fun as possible,” she says.

NOLA Rugs serves individual customers, architects, designers and corporate clients from across the U.S. For more information and to explore inventory, visit NOLARugs.com. •

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Newman Dailey

Travel Destinations W

ith spring break upon us, now’s the time to plan your spring vacation, and regional travel destinations abound for enjoying some fun in – and even out of – the sun. From food and music festivals, to tours, beach rentals and big-city hotels, there are options of all kinds for travelers wanting to take part in some springtime fun. Whether your family is interested in the cultural festivities of Louisiana’s bayou region or the excitement of a Gulf Coast beach vacation, you can do either or even both as the days grow longer. Wine festivals offer great opportunities for an adults-only romantic getaway, while water parks and carnival midways satisfy a kid’s sense of adventure. Find a spring travel destination for the family now, or plan with reservations for the upcoming summer.

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A labama Adv e ntu res Celebrate life at The Grand, one of the top resorts and spas in the country according to Conde Nast Traveler. New Orleanians have visited The Grand since 1847 and this spring it will be even better.

Experience the Fairhope Arts & Craft Festival March 20–22 or make your Spring Break “Grand.” Escape to Spa at the Grand. Plunge into their five pools. Try great steaks and local seafood in the Grand Steakhouse and the Saltwater Grill.

Play a round of golf, experience the daily cannon firing, and enjoy afternoon tea before strolling along Mobile Bay at sunset. For couples, The Grand’s cozy fire pits, awardwinning wines, and great cuisine are ideal. From sailboats and bikes to croquet and crafts, families will find activities to keep everyone happy.

Don’t forget Easter at the Grand. Visit GrandHotelMarriott. com or call (251) 928-9201 for reservations and information.

The transformation begins the moment your toes touch the sugar-white sand and you hear the sound of waves lapping the shore. Suddenly, you’re in a whole different state of connection. Life seems to slow down, senses are magnified, and families are strengthened on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The area boasts 32 miles of pristine beaches and turquoise water, a variety of family-friendly attractions,

numerous restaurants for sampling fresh coastal cuisine, nearby outlet shopping and more.

Take a dip in the turquoise Gulf waters, enjoy a day at the zoo or waterpark, step back in time at historic Fort Morgan, or feast on local seafood. There’s something for everyone on the Alabama Gulf Coast and with a vast selection of accommodations including condos, hotels and beach houses, you’re sure to find the perfect place for your family to make memories and reconnect. Visit GulfShores.com to start planning your trip today.

Explore the Alabama Gulf Coast and all it has to offer with Gulf Shores Rentals, Inc. Gulf Shores Rentals offers many condominiums and a variety of select homes that will meet your gulf getaway. Take advantage of their “free fun” with the Stay and Play package and experience the gulf on a deep sea fishing excursion, hit the greens with a free round of golf, or simply enjoy marine life at its best on a dolphin cruise.

Explore the Island and soak your feet in 32 miles of soft, sugar-white sand while enjoying a fun-filled adventurous day before relaxing at one of Gulf Shores’ many eclectic, well-known restaurants. Call Gulf Shores Rentals today for current free-night special offers in one of their numerous beach accommodations along Alabama’s southern border.

It’s all waiting for you to discover. For more information and reservations, call 866-966-8715 or visit GulfShoresRentals.com.

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L i v ely Loui siana Visitors to New Orleans this spring and summer will no doubt be bombarded with information about which restaurants to go to, who has the best gumbo, where to sip a sazerac, and who invented the poor boy. Even the city’s residents have conversations like these on a regular basis. Want to join – and taste – the conversation?

New Orleans Culinary History Tours offer food-filled, tasting tours that immerse you in the history of New Orleans while exploring how the city’s unique cuisine evolved. Visitors learn to appreciate the differences between Creole and Cajun cuisine and discover the variety of ethnic influences that contributed to some of New Orleans’ most famous dishes.

Tour-goers visit select historic restaurants such as Antoine’s and Tujague’s while tour guides discuss each restaurant’s culinary contributions. Additionally, guests enjoy a roux cooking demonstration by an authentic creole chef.

Tours start at 2 p.m. daily and run about three hours. Advance purchase is required.

Find out more and reserve your tour today at NOCulinaryTours.com or by calling 877-2788240.

Historic downtown Lafayette transforms into an entertainment complex during Festival International de Louisiane April 22-26. The largest, FREE Francophone festival features seven music stages, food courts, street performers, fine arts, live interviews with musicians, a craft biergarten, 5k run and more. All programming for the festival is designed to celebrate cultural expression in a variety of performance arts and to encourage understanding and appreciation for the different cultures that shape Acadiana. The festival now offers the Festival Pass, an additional way to experience Festival International, with perks like a Rooftop Lounge, express drink lines and a seated viewing area.

Festival International de Louisiane is a volunteer-driven event with annual participation from approximately 2,000 volunteers. Through the arts presented and the joint efforts to produce it, the festival contributes to the spirit of community that is so unique to the Acadiana region. Visit their Web site for more information at FestivalInternational.org.

The Hyatt French Quarter New Orleans is a renovated historic hotel in one of the city’s oldest and most popular neighborhoods: The French Quarter. The property resides in the former D.H. Holmes building and offers more than 10,660 square feet of customizable function space located in one central area of the hotel’s first floor. With 10 meeting rooms, the Hyatt French Quarter New Orleans can accommodate meetings, events and weddings, from three to 300 people.

The Hyatt French Quarter also boasts their marketinspired eatery, Powdered Sugar and the artisan Batch

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New Orleans Culinary History Tours

Bar, which showcases a collection of quality bourbons and flask service. The popular and award-winning Red Fish Grill, owned and operated by Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group, is also part of the Hyatt French Quarter New Orleans. Additionally, the Hard Rock Café serves casual cuisine and offers live music during the week. The Hotel is located at 800 Iberville St., in New Orleans. For more information, visit: FrenchQuarter.Hyatt.com.

St. Landry Parish: “Where we live our culture!” Visit St. Landry Parish and take the Zydeco Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway to shop the Seven-Mile Plus Yard Sale and the Exit 11 Yard Sale, both on March 21. The Semi Annual Antique Fair & Yard Sale takes place in the historic town of Washington April 10-12, featuring more than 200 vendors.

The following weekend, Washington will be busy again with the 15th Annual Washington Catfish Festival slated for April 16-19.

During that same week is La Semaine Francaise from April 14-20, when the Parish greets visitors from France and a week of cultural activities ensues between Arnaudville and Baton Rouge. Events culminate with the 30th Annual Arnaudville Etouffee Festival, April 24-26. Finally, welcome spring flowers on May 2 at the Sunset Annual Herb & Garden Festival.

For more information, visit CajunTravel.com or call 877948-8004.

Spring means unbeatable weather in Lafourche Parish, and with unbeatable weather comes a smattering of events, outdoor festivals and exciting things to do and see.

Head to Nicholls State University campus March 20-22 for the Louisiana Swamp Stomp Festival, which features

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regional music, dance, food, arts and crafts, as well as cultural educational opportunities. On Saturday, March 28, make plans to attend the Leeville Arts & Heritage Festival held at Boudreaux’s Waterfront Motel. The all-day event features a cultural cooking competition, demonstrations, live music, an arts market, paddling and plenty of food.

In April, Paddle Bayou Lafourche welcomes paddlers April 9-12, the Lockport Food Festival satisfies appetites April 1719, and the Thibodaux Fireman’s Fair & Parade extends from April 30 through May 3. Bayou Cajun Fest takes place at the Larose Civic Center & Regional Park May 8-10 and features a carnival midway and Cajun food, music and dancing.

Additionally, don’t forget to take the kids by the new Bayou Country Children’s Museum in Thibodaux for a day full of fun and adventure.

For more information, events and destinations, go to VisitLafourche.com.

M i ghty Mississippi Big Bay Lake is a one-of-a-kind planned community on Mississippi’s largest private recreational lake. Located just outside of Hattiesburg, Big Bay Lake blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Homesites are available on the water starting at $100,000. Both the homes and homesites within this community provide unique opportunities to create the perfect home or weekend getaway.

It’s time to relax, unplug, make memories and create new traditions at Big Bay. Whether you are a boating or fishing

enthusiast, or just a family who loves to make a big splash, Big Bay Lake is simply about the lure of the water. Come enjoy sun-kissed, fun-filled days at Big Bay Lake, “where the little things make life ... BIG!” Big Bay Lake is only 90 minutes from New Orleans. Call for a boat tour today at 877-4BIG-BAY or visit BigBayLake.com.

Whether attending a signature event or touring historic homes while azaleas are in bloom, Vicksburg, Miss., is a great place to bring your family to make your own history. Visit the Vicksburg National Military Park and check out educational museums to immerse yourself in American history. Watch riverboats cruise down the mighty Mississippi River from one of many scenic overlooks or book a guided tour of the city for a truly unique experience.

Enjoy Vicksburg’s biggest festival – the RiverFest Music and Arts Festival – April 17-18 for live music concerts and free daytime activities. Other activities include the DiamondJacks Rhythm Run, the Old Court House Flea Market and Alcorn State University’s Jazz Fest. Spring is the perfect time to take part in traditional Vicksburg events like attending the Guinness Book of World Records’ longest running melodrama Gold in the Hills or kayaking the mighty Mississippi at the Bluz Cruz Canoe and Kayak Race.

Mark your calendars for an indulgent night out at the seventh annual A Chocolate Affair at the Southern Cultural Heritage Center featuring chocolate and live music.

Find out more at VisitVicksburg.com or by calling 800221-3536.

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The Mississippi Gulf Coast and surrounding areas have a little something for everyone, from coastal fishing or visiting the barrier islands, to enjoying the tranquil beauty in the immediate countryside. The fresh local seafood is next to none, and if you enjoy dining out, you are certain to find a restaurant to satisfy your interests from casual laid back eateries to fine dining establishments. The festivals are never-ending and include everything from “Cruising the Coast” to the many local seafood and po’boy events spotted throughout the surrounding area. The coast and its surrounding cities and Ship Island towns have come a long way and boast numerous large shopping malls and cinemas. Truly, there is something to please everyone without the traffic and big-city hassle. Las Vegas-style hotels, condos, bed and breakfasts—the Gulf South has it all.

Home ownership is very affordable and price/value cannot be matched in other venues. Kelly Creely, an associated broker with Fidelis Realty, is based in Gulfport, Miss., at 1317 24th St., Suite D. For more information and listings, visit KellyCreely.com or call 228-233-8975.

Cross into the hilly landscape of Jackson, Miss., this spring

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and keep the party going. On March 21, Jackson hosts the 32nd annual world-famous Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade, also known as Jackson’s “green Mardi Gras.” Attracting more than 60,000 visitors from around the world, Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade celebrates the rebirth of Mississippi’s capital city with a parade, music, street dance, children’s activities, a run, pet parade and so much more.

Fun follows March 27-28 with the Zippity Doo Dah Parade in Fondren, the historic arts district in the heart of Jackson. Inspired by the works of Jill Conner Browne’s Sweet Potato Queens novels, Zippity Doo Dah is a humor-infused

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celebration of freedom.

From March through July, the literary world comes to Jackson to celebrate the centennial of Margaret Walker Alexander and the biennial of Eudora Welty with fine arts and lecture series.

For more events and information, go to VisitJackson.com.

Relaxation, recreation and history are the gifts offered

by Ship Island. Located 11 miles off of Mississippi’s coast are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America.

Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, these exquisite sand islands offer visitors the first and finest high quality beaches for swimming and shelling east of New Orleans.

Locals and visitors consistently rate the 22-mile round trip to Ship Island as the coast’s premier beach experience.

Visit historic Fort Massachusetts on your own or on a Park Ranger-guided tour. The pristine gulf waters welcome swimmers and body surfers while tranquil stretches of shore invite visitors to picnic, explore and decompress on rentable beach chairs under large umbrellas.

Lifeguards oversee a designated swim area in summer, and emergency assistance is available. A 1/3-mile stroll along a boardwalk is required to reach the more popular swim beach on the south side of the island. Except for the fort, boardwalk, restrooms with showers and a covered picnic area near a snack bar, you’ll find little development.

Visit MSShipIsland.com or call 866-GO-MSFUN (866-4667386) for more information.

South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival

F lo r ida F un Newman-Dailey Resort Properties is merging the best beach vacation experiences into one incredible getaway. Beach myneworleans.com / MARCH 2015

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Sandestin Wine Festival

lovers looking to take a South Walton or Destin vacation will enjoy the “Be Free Bundle” included with Newman-Dailey vacation rentals.

The Be Free Bundle* packages the Newman-Dailey Gift Card, good toward parasailing, tickets to the Track, admission to Big Kahuna’s Waterpark, a dolphin cruise, a snorkel excursion and free movie rentals, along with complimentary beach service (two chairs and an umbrella with each night of the stay), and discounts to area restaurants.

With the sugar white sand beaches of the Emerald Coast calling, Newman-Dailey’s vast selection of luxury beach homes and well-appointed condos make it easy to find the perfect rental. In addition, Newman-Dailey’s “Late Spring Fling” offer includes a 10 percent discount* on stays of three nights or more from May 2-15, 2015. (*Available with most rentals; some restrictions apply.) For details, visit DestinVacation.com or call 800-225-7652.

Each year, South Walton becomes the epicenter of the wine world during the fourth weekend of April as South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival and Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) team up to host the preeminent vintners from around the world. The ultimate wine week includes two days of Grand Tastings as well as ancillary and VIP events.

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Held in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, April 23-26, features more than 800 wines, celebrity winemakers, the Savor South Walton Culinary Village, tasting seminars, live entertainment and Champagne Lane.

The star-studded lineup of 2015 celebrity winemakers includes wine superstars Marc Perrin of Chateau du Beaucastel and Jean-Charles Boisset of Boisset Family Estates and La Famille Des Grands Vins, among others.

The festival is presented by Visit South Walton and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Tickets to festival events, including the Friday Craft Beer and Spirits Jam, are available at SoWalWine.com.

Uncork some fun in the sun at the 29th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival, April 16-19 at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, the No. 1 resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast. The Sandestin Wine Festival, voted Best Annual Event in Destin, is a picture-perfect event, complete with white tents, flowing wine, food, live music and so much more. Affectionately called the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals,” attendees will enjoy wine tastings showcasing hundreds of domestic and international wines. Don’t miss this very popular event at the Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin!

Sandestin offers more deluxe accommodations from the beach to the bay and features a winning combination of

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events, activities, dining and shopping, unmatched by any other vacation destination. To thoroughly enjoy the events surrounding the Sandestin Wine Festival, visit South Walton and stay steps or a simple tram ride away. Save up to 25 percent off when you book at Sandestin and with promo code WINE15.

Visit Sandestin.com/Wine or call 866-544-1026 to plan your Wine Festival Getaway today.

The contagiously delicious and fresh menu of the The Ruby Slipper Cafe continues to spread flavor across New Orleans and now the Gulf Coast, as the popular eatery recently announced it will open its fifth and newest location in historic Downtown Pensacola, Fla., at 509 South Palafox St. Already present in Mid-City, the Marigny and the CBD, The Ruby Slipper is known for adding New Orleans flair to traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch menus. Specialty cocktails such as the Ruby Slipper Mimosa and house-made Bloody Mary are perfect complements to favorites such as the seasonal Ruby’s Crabcake breakfast, and House Specialties Eggs Cochon or the BBQ Shrimp & Grits.

If you are planning to travel this summer to a beach locale, consider Pensacola, where The Ruby Slipper Café’s downtown location is scheduled to open Memorial Day weekend. Visit the Ruby Slipper online at TheRubySlipperCafe.net and find all five locations on

Facebook. Dine in Mid-City at 139 S. Cortez, in the CBD at 200 Magazine St., in the Marigny at 2001 Burgundy St., in the French Quarter at 1005 Canal St., and very soon at 509 South Palafox St., in Pensacola, Fla.

Foreign Travel For more than 25 years, Vacation Express, a division of Sunwing Travel Group Inc., has grown to become one of the largest tour operators in the U.S. Vacation Express specializes in quality, cost-effective, all-inclusive vacation packages to more than 35 destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico and Costa Rica. Vacation Express once again will offer exclusive, non-stop flights from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to Cancun and Riviera Maya while adding new flights to Punta Cana in 2015.

These exclusive round-trip, non-stop flights will depart every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from May 14 to Aug. 27, 2015, and are operated by Swift Air, LLC, and Sunwing Airlines.

When booking with Vacation Express, your all-inclusive vacation package includes exclusive non-stop flight, hotel accommodations, a local representative, all meals, all drinks, taxes and more! Whether you want to visit paradise for a three-day weekend or escape reality for a weeklong getaway, Vacation Express is your go-to destination for allinclusive beach vacations. Visit VacationExpress.com. •

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Colon Cancer Awareness

W

ho is at risk for cancer? According to the American Cancer Society, cancer most commonly develops in older people, with 78 percent of all cancer diagnoses occurring in people 55 years of age or older. Additionally smokers, people with unhealthy diets or those who are physically inactive also have a higher risk. An estimated 93,090 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2015, with 2,150 of those occurring in Louisiana. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. Incidence rates are on the decline, partly because of the uptake of colorectal cancer screening among adults 50 years and older. Learn your risks and whether you should be screened for the disease.

New Orleans healthcare providers are here to help.

One condition that predisposes a person to having colon cancer is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), more specifically ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s colitis. Patients with IBD have

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an increased risk of colon cancer and require more frequent screening colonoscopies especially if they have had the disease for greater than seven years. Studies have also shown that there is an increased risk of colon cancer in those with a more active disease state.

The Tulane Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center specializes in the care of these chronic diseases. The center’s director, Dr. Nabeel Khan, has a special interest in studying the association of ulcerative colitis and colon cancer, and has received a federal grant to study the association of certain drugs with colon cancer in the setting of ulcerative colitis.

Under the guidance of Dr. Khan, the center provides a comprehensive treatment plan in a dedicated Inflammatory Bowel Disease clinic with access to the latest, cutting-edge experimental treatments.

For more information on IBD and the Tulane IBD Center, call 988-5110 or email Christine.cottrell@hcahealthcare.com. •

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Specialty Clinics

H

ealthcare options continue to expand across Greater New Orleans with new clinics opening, established clinics adding physicians and services and, of course, technologies continuing to heighten efficiency and performance.

From primary care, behavioral health, occupational health, hearing and balance, hyperbaric medicine and weight loss to assisted living, acupuncture, fertility and orthopedics, local and regional healthcare providers have all the specialties covered. No matter your or your families needs, there are resources available in the kinds of care you seek. Along with news of growth, other specialty clinics news involves clinical trials, added programs, educational information, and clinic awards and accolades. Check out the latest from these local leaders in healthcare.

The new CrescentCare Health and Wellness Center provides a variety of primary care and specialty services for the whole family. The brand new, community-based health center is dedicated to providing affordable, accessible healthcare regardless of income or insurance status.

Additional services offered at the wellness center include behavioral health, case management, infectious disease referrals and nutrition counseling. Services are provided on a sliding scale based on income or through your current insurance provider. Medicare and Medicaid are also accepted.

The new facility is now open at 3308 Tulane Ave.,

in Mid-City (near the intersection of Jefferson Davis Boulevard). For more information, call 207-CARE (2273) or visit CrescentCareHealth.org. Note: As a National Health Service Core site, CrescentCare is also seeking qualified health professionals dedicated to working in the heart of this community, making an impact in very powerful and personal ways. Visit the website to explore available positions.

The John J. Hainkel, Jr. Home & Rehabilitation Center, founded in 1891 is located at 612 Henry Clay Ave., nestled among beautiful oak trees and lush greenery outlined myneworleans.com / MARCH 2015

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by porches and patios, and promotes a quality of life through a unique and caring alternative for the elderly and those who suffer from serious illnesses or disabilities. The facility provides a wide range of healthcare services including but not limited to physical, occupational, speech and recreational therapy.

The Hainkel Home works to maintain and enhance the quality of life of all of residents and clients while fostering the self-sufficiency of clients and families by providing restorative care and recreational activities.

The enhanced art program encourages residents to improve their dexterity and fine motor skills whether modeling with clay or painting. The new music program includes frequent visits from the Loyola School of Music, children from a neighboring charter school and weekly visiting musicians. The daily exercise program is another activity keeping everyone on their toes.

Contact an Admissions Coordinator Cathryn Abbott Jones (756-2844), Laura Glazer (919-4058) or Jose Padilla (616-3714) to find out more about the Hainkel Home.

The frequency of inner ear problems escalates as we age. Not only are the rates of hearing loss rising, but also problems with balance disturbances are increasing.

The good news is that these are problems that can be significantly improved with treatment. Almost all hearing losses are amenable to treatment, be it medically, surgically or with hearing aids.

The two most common causes of balance problems are also relatively easy to fix. BPPV, loose crystals in the inner ear that cause balance problems, are easily treated with an in-office procedure. The other cause of imbalance is loss of leg strength, which is easily corrected by a regimen of daily walking. Unfortunately, a combination of BPPV and leg weakness, if left untreated, can spell disaster for the elderly resulting in falls and broken bones, or more insidiously, reduced mobility, and consequently, retracting from full life engagement. If you or someone you know suffers from hearing or balance problems, there are options for treatment.

The Ear and Balance Institute specializes in these and other hearing and balance disorders. Find out more at EarAndBalance.net.

The EJGH Wound Care Center provides multidisciplinary outpatient treatment for patients with chronic nonhealing wounds. These wounds are usually the result of diabetes, excessive pressure (bedsores), circulatory conditions, trauma or surgery. Education is provided throughout the course of treatment to promote rapid healing and prevent recurrence.

EJGH is also proud to offer Wound Care Center patients Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Hyperbaric medicine, also known as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), is the medical use of concentrated oxygen at levels higher than atmospheric pressure. HBOT has numerous indications, some of which include the treatment of certain diabetic wounds of the lower extremities, necrotizing soft tissue infections, chronic refractory osteomyelitis, radiation necrosis and failed skin grafts. The goal is to significantly increase patients’ wound healing rates and improve

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patients’ quality of life.

For more information or to schedule a wound care appointment, contact Louisiana Wound Care Specialists at( 877) 295-2273 or locally at 835-4919. Or, visit EJGH.org.

Medi-Weightloss®, a physician-supervised weight loss program known as The One That Works® is now open in Metairie! Along with their team of medical professionals, Drs. Katherine Swing, Kathleen Sullivan, Sacha Wax, Robin Bone and Archana Paine provide individualized care based on each patient’s goals, current health status and medical history.

The program includes weekly consultations that focus on nutrition, lifestyle and exercise. Education is provided on how to lose weight in the real world using real food without prepackaged meals. Patients learn how to maintain their weight loss through a specialized Wellness Phase.

Medi-Weightloss is located at 4315 Houma Blvd., Suite 100 in Metairie. Additional information is available by calling 313-6113 or visiting MediWeightloss.com.

Offering Residential Assisted Living and Memory Care Residences in New Orleans, Metairie and on the West Bank, Peristyle Residences present an alternative to large assisted living communities by providing primarily private rooms in actual homes located within great neighborhoods. Peristyle Residences’ homes are luxurious, comfortable and secure. Their small family of operators has more than 30 years of healthcare and senior living experience, including nursing home and assisted living administration, home health and hospice management, nursing care and nurse education. They specialize in the care and support for seniors with memory care needs, such as Alzheimer’s, dementia and other aging-related conditions.

Their small communities foster the development of sincere relationships between caregivers and residents.

They encourage families to decorate and furnish the private rooms and living areas with familiar items that are comforting and keep memories vivid. Peristyle Residences provides an array of stimulating activities in a setting that’s more intimate than traditional nursing home and assisted living facilities. Healthy meals are prepared on site and served hot.

Learn more by scheduling a tour today.

Visit PeristyleResidences.com or call 259-0326.

For over three decades, The Fertility Institute has been and continues to be one of the nation’s leading, state-of-the-art clinics specializing in new infertility treatment. Employing traditional treatments and the latest advances in reproductive technology, including IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), the Fertility Institute offers new hope for families who have trouble conceiving or who have genetic abnormalities that may cause a difficult quality of life for a child.

The Fertility Institute is a pioneer in the Gulf South and the first to perform IVF in the region and achieve a pregnancy with its first IVF. With a team of five

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physicians and additional staff, they have accomplished over 14,000 pregnancies. The Institute continues to be designated as a Center of Excellence by Optum, a subsidiary of United Healthcare, for their proven track record of success, comprehensive services, physician experience, exceptional facility, industry accreditation and continuous quality assurance.

For more information on the Institute and available procedures, visit FertilityInstitute.com. They have offices in Uptown, Mandeville, Metairie, and Baton Rouge, and appointments may be scheduled by calling (800) 375-0048.

Kevin Darr, M.D. of Covington Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute is a board-certified and fellowshiptrained orthopedic surgeon who has earned a reputation for offering innovative surgical and non-surgical treatment options.

“In addition to traditional orthopedic treatments and surgery, I offer minimally invasive alternatives utilizing state-of-the-art technology and integrative orthobiologic treatments to qualified patients,” says Dr. Darr. He is currently conducting IRB-approved research studies measuring the safety and effectiveness of advanced cell therapy to treat joint osteoarthritis, soft tissue injuries, such as rotator cuff tears, knee tendon and ligament injuries and avascular necrosis of the bone. The goal of the studies is to augment surgical outcomes or to potentially prevent the need for surgical intervention.

For more information on these studies and on Dr. Darr’s qualifications and services, visit CovingtonOrtho. com or call (985) 273-5888.

New Orleans residents suffering from pain are invited to find their own “pathway to pain relief” at Integrated Pain and Neuroscience. Physicians and advanced practice clinicians led by Dr. Eric Royster offer a custom multispecialty treatment experience for patients suffering from chronic pain. Common conditions such as headaches, spine, orthopedic and neurologic pain are successfully treated. Pain is difficult; their team can help.

The team consists of Dr. Eric Royster, board-certified in Pain Medicine; Dr. Domenick Grieshaber, fellowshiptrained in Pain Medicine; Dr. Andrea O’Leary, specializing in adult and child psychiatry; and Dr. Aaron Friedman, specializing in neurology and acupuncture. Their focus on coordination of care determines the most suitable treatment options for each patient. IPN physicians offer a variety of interventional procedures including acupuncture, platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatments, psychiatric care and whole food plant-based nutrition counseling.

For more information, visit PainIsAPuzzle.com or call 300-9020. IPN is located Uptown at 2801 Napoleon Ave. Saturday appointments are available. •

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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.

Author Stanley Dry — Louisiana Life “Kitchen Gourmet” columnist, former senior editor of Food & Wine magazine and accomplished cook — brings history, culture and spice together in his first book, The Essential Louisiana Cookbook, a Louisiana Life product by Renaissance Publishing. From classics, such as red beans and rice and a variety of delectable gumbos, to modern creations sure to become weeknight traditions, this collection of recipes will be a go-to for native Louisianans and those new to the state’s rich culinary landscape.

$16.95 TO ORDER VISIT LOUISIANACOOKBOOK.COM

TRY THIS

New Orleans Culinary Tours Offers Trip to Spain (877) 278-8240, NOCulinaryTours.com There are still spots left on the New Orleans Culinary History Tour Company’s culinary tour to Seville, Spain, May 24-31. The tour will include a visit to the Tio Pepe Winery in Jerez, an olive oil farm, cooking classes and visits to cultural landmarks such as the Cathedral of Seville and Alcazar Palace. The company is most well known for its French Quarter Culinary History and Tasting Tour, which incorporates tastings at Antoine’s, Arnaud’s and Tujague’s restaurants. The New Orleans’ Classic Drink Tour and the Cooking School Experience are alternative ways to experience the city’s gastronomic history.

Third generation joins Soniat Realty Soniat Realty, 3940 Canal St., 274-2812, SoniatRealty.com Meredith Soniat, third generation of the Soniat family, has joined the family business, Soniat Realty Inc., as a realtor. The appointment comes as the company launches a new logo, colors and an updated website. Soniat Realty, established in 1976, is still owned and run by the Soniat family from offices in Mid-City, with Bill Soniat serving as President and Broker.

The company serves Greater New Orleans landlords and homeowners, buyers sellers, and manages over 600 residential rental units and 300 condominium associations.

– Mirella Cameran cheryl gerber photo

Old Haunts

Taking a Haunted History Tour

by Kelly Massicot

“Y

ou know, people ask me all the time why the French Quarter is so haunted.” Daphne Schobert, tour guide for Haunted History Tours in the French Quarter, says. “Is it because it’s really old and a lot of people died there? Well, that’s part of it. But that is certainly not all of it.”

Each night Schobert, tour guide for Haunted History Tours in the French Quarter, leads her pupils down St. Peters Street to the back of St. Louis Cathedral and up Pirates Alley. It is in this alley that you begin your decent into not only the haunted, but also the gritty history of New Orleans. Since the city’s beginning in 1718, it has experienced many tribulations including war, yellow fever and hurricanes. Because of that, Schobert believes the city is one of the most haunted places in the country; “New Orleans was born in tragedy, grew up in tragedy and tragedy creates emotional attachment, and emotional attachment creates most hauntings.”

On one crisp Tuesday evening, I began my two-hour walking tour of some of the most haunted areas of the city. The streets every New Orleanian has walked their entire life became the site of tragedy, scandal and hauntings.

Each location we walked to had a story of tragedy or loss and each had visitors experience the paranormal. Some stories lean towards the gore and violence, like the home of Madame Delphine LaLaurie, and may be unsuitable for the faint of heart. The LaLaurie mansion, the Andrew Jackson hotel, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and many more all make appearances during the tour.

The Haunted History Tour company has been providing tourists and New Orleanians alike tours throughout the city for 20 years. With New Orleans being a hot tourist destination and considered to be one of the most haunted places in the country, owner Sidney Smith saw the perfect market in 1995 to open what’s now the oldest and arguably the most popular walking tour company in the city.

Tours run daily at 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. concurrently with the seven other tours the company has to offer (Vampire, Voodoo, Cemetery, Scandal, French Quarter History, Garden District and Garden District Ghost tour).

“Because we all are so unequivocally connected to this city, that gets up in our blood, to the core of our very soul, when we die,” Schobert says, “there’s a really good chance that we don’t want to leave our home behind.” See you on the tour – one way or the other. n cheryl gerber photo

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Getting Back From Broadway By errol laborde

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heaters throughout New York’s Broadway district were letting out for the evening, but the rain was not relenting – neither was the winter cold, which came in blasts. Suddenly we were among hundreds competing for a dry way to get to where we were staying. There were taxis, many of them, but every one was filled and heading away. We could have taken the subway, but the underground station was several blocks away and I wasn’t sure what to do when I got there. I was still not yet Über-literate, but we could have prearranged to hire a car. (Next time I will try to remember to do that, and to bring Bill Gates with me to split the tab.)We were cold, wet and helpless on Broadway.

Then, of all the monologues spoken on Broadway that night, none was as beautiful as the one delivered by a young man standing on the corner

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speaking in an Eastern European accent.

“Would you like a ride?” he asked.

Looking through the forest of transportation options I had failed to see the critters, the pedicabs, working their way through the crowds.

Our destination was about 20 blocks away, yet he agreed to take us.

His vehicle is essentially a tricycle. We plumped into the two seats in the back. Then he zipped a plastic sheet that surrounded us. For a moment I felt claustrophobic as we were sealed into cellophane like a pair or potato chips. Our driver began pedaling. It would have been better had I not been looking. He began by actually turning head on into the traffic and then weaving his away across the street to the left lane. Then he straightened his path.

His legs, pumping like pistons, propelled us up Eighth Street. He was not, as might have been expected, a hunk with bulging muscles; instead he was an average sized kid with lots of gumption trying to make bucks. (Four per minute, but it was worth it.)

Unlike us, he had no protection from the rain. He pedaled into the elements, hauling us though a soggy night.

From a taxi’s perspective the streets of Manhattan seem to be level. As seen from a pedicab, the

truth is revealed. The island was carved from hills. In the direction we were heading there was a gradual elevation. Our driver was standing at the pedals working up the force, chugging with each down stroke.

By the time we got to our destination the rain had subsided.

From there we only had to walk across the street, then continue about a half-block. He unzipped us. Once I added in his well-deserved tip, the cost was more than had we actually hired a car; nevertheless, without him we might still be standing on Broadway waiting for the taxis to return.

There was a median in the street where we waited next to a traffic light to cross the street. We talked about how lucky we were to be arriving dry.

Meanwhile the traffic light was about to turn red. Onrushing taxi drivers sped up, whizzing near the curb where puddles had accumulated. There must have been four taxis in a row, each shooting a splash into the air roughly equivalent to Hawaiian surfing waves.

The water formed a canopy over us, and then crashed down, leaving us thoroughly soaked.

In the end we were drenched, but at least in the final act there had been a hero. n ARTHUR NEAD ILLUSTRATION