OctoberWhereYat.com 2022 DINING • MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE KEEPIN’ IT REAL AT MANDINA’S
Make plans now because October is going to be a busy month!
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Mid City’s Mandina’s Restaurant is one of the oldest restaurants in town dating back to 1898. Chef Robert Haten has been working there for over 30 years. Kim Ranjbar takes a walk through time exploring the history of this legendary establishment.
October 2022
Contributing Writers: Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Burke Bischoff, Julie Mitchell, Greg Roques, Eliana Blum, Leigh Wright, Steve Melendez, Michelle Nicholson, Sabrina Stone, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle, Camille Barnett, Celeste Turner, Cynthea Corfah
Cover Photo: Mandina's Chef Robert Haten by Romney Caruso
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Enjoy our rundown of upcoming festivals—some returning for the first time since the pandemic.
Photographers and Designers: Gus Escanelle, Kim Ranjbar, Emily Hingle, Robert Witkowski, Londyn Morse
Happy Autumn. While it may still feel like summer, cooler weather is near. And the return of fall means the return of fall festivals.
–Josh Danzig, Publisher ExtrasEntertainment & Nightlife 46 Live Music Calendar 52 Lakeside2Riverside 84 Movie Reviews 86 Where Y'Been 10 Fall Restaurant Guide 28 Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice 34 Beignets All the Way 34 Bánh Mìs for You & Me 58 Charcuterie Dreams at Home 58 The End of Mindless Snacking 62 $20 & Under 64 Food News 39 Bar Guide 54 Fall Festival Guide 80 Tales From the Quarter 82 Po-Boy Views 6 Chef Robert Haten is Keeping It Real at Mandina's 24 Food With a View 30 Plant-Based Foods Growing in Popularity 40 Open Kitchen Entertainment 66 Bourbon Marketing Worth the Trip 72 The High Hebrew Holy Days of Fall 76 Louisiana Conspiracies Theories Features Food & Drink 62 547230
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This issue is also our Fall Restaurant Guide. Kudos to our own Gustavo Escanelle on photographing all of the mouthwatering dishes. Grab a friend and try a new spot today.
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The pastel pink building on the corner of Canal Street and North Cortez was already a well-established, much-beloved neighborhood restaurant in Mid-City when Robert Haten walked in seeking a job over 30 years ago. He had been working as an overnight stocker at the Real Superstore on Airline Highway when it closed after being acquired by Schwegmann Giant Super Markets, Inc. At the unemployment office, a job placement service informed Haten of an opening at Mandina's Restaurant. “They sent me over there, and I've been there ever since,” Haten laughed. “I would have never figured I'd be at this stage, and I can put my hand on the bible on that one.”
By Kim PortraitRanjbarphotography by Romney Caruso
CARUSOROMNEY 6 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Mandina's Restaurant started life as a grocery store when Sebastian Mandina moved to New Orleans from Palermo, Italy and opened it in 1898. Over the years, the grocery store evolved into a pool-hall, and it wasn't until 1932, when Sebastian's sons, Anthony and Frank, transformed the business into the restaurant we know today. After 90 years, the neighborhood eatery has remained in the family and is currently run by Cindy, a fourth generation Mandina and the great-granddaughter of Sebastian. “I'm very proud of the fact that I'm
Chef Robert Haten at RestaurantMandina's
When Robert Haten began his employment at Mandina's Restaurant thirty years ago, he never expected his ascent to head chef of the nearly century-old, Mid-City landmark.
SUCCESSUNHERALDED
After over 35 years as Mandina's head chef, Pilart decided to hang up his toque, and he chose Haten to succeed him. “I was
Kitchen prep
At home, Haten is also the head chef, a perk which benefits both family and friends, but he and his wife will often visit local restaurants to taste their take on local ingredients. “One of my top five is New Orleans Food & Spirits in Bucktown” Haten stated. “I love that restaurant.”
in a house,’” and he did. Haten took his hard-earned wages and purchased a place out in New Orleans East—a home for his wife Lavigne and daughter Robin. Though the home was completely lost in the levee failures of 2005, Haten returned from his “evacu-location” in Arlington, Texas and rebuilt it, including the addition of a few interior renovations along the way. “I'm glad I can now say I outright own that house,” says Haten.
“All she likes is seafood.” Though he's one to talk—his favorite dish at Mandina's is grilled Gulf fish smothered in crawfish etouffee.Though he loves cooking at Mandina's and couldn't imagine being in another profession, though owning a food truck is a distinct possibility, Haten's school life pointed him in a much different direction. During high school, his interest in drawing propelled him towards a program at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. “I can't say the last time I picked up a pencil, but I doodle all right.” said Haten. “I doodle while I read cookbooks.”
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prep, Haten's education included working every station, moving to kitchen expediter, and then kitchen manager, all under Pilart's tutelage. “[Pilart] was one of those people from the old school,” Haten said. “He believed you've got to feel the cooking, put your heart into it. If you don't want to cook it right, don't do it at all.”
“I still talk to him every other week,” he admitted. What he's learned is evident in the local seafood and Italian favorites served every day, from the fried soft-shell crab meuniere and shrimp remoulade to eggplant Parmesan and spaghetti.
the fourth generation, and, hopefully, my sons will go into the fifth,” Mandina said. “I mean, how many restaurants have that today? We're a dying breed.”
As both a friend and a mentor, Pilart passed on many gems of wisdom over the years, but one of the most important had nothing to do with cooking. “He said, ‘If you want to invest in something, invest
Though he enjoys trying different cuisines, everything from Italian foods to sushi, he's far more adventurous than his wife.
8 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
When Haten walked in the door seeking employment, he was a complete novice when it came to cooking. “I couldn't boil water, and that's the easiest thing,” Haten mused. “My grandmother is surprised I can even put up a pot.” Beginning as a chef's assistant, Haten learned his way around the kitchen through his apprenticeship to Isadore Pilart, the head chef of Mandina's who already had a decade of work at the restaurant under his belt. Starting in food
the one that he taught behind him, and I learned everything I know from him,” stated Haten. After cooking together for over 20 years, the two still keep in touch.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 9
Crescent City Steakhouse takes steak to a new level by serving the tastiest sizzling buttery steaks that don’t disappoint. This old-fashioned steakhouse has served the same recipe for four generations. They also have hearty options such as lobster tails, gratin, and Krasna’s creole cream cheesecake. The filet mignon is one of the best things on the menu.
Daisy Duke’s is the best stop for some of the best Southern cooking, all for a good price. They serve breakfast all day and also serve lunch and dinner options such as po-boys, gumbo, and red beans and rice. Don’t forget to pair an award-winning Cajun Bloody Mary when you order their delight breakfast sandwich. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant, Bar, and Catering serves New Orleans’ favorites in Gretna’s historic district. There is a happy hour daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with half-price drink and appetizer specials. Gattuso’s most famous dish is the firecracker shrimp salad, complete with fresh spinach, red onions, heirloom tomatoes, firecracker sauce, and cheese.
Jimmy J’s, with its technicolor restaurant front and warm hospitality is “N’awlins’ funkiest lil’ café.” This restaurant boasts unique breakfasts, scrumptious desserts, catering for your next party, and amazing signature cocktails. Be sure to order their Black Angus burger or oyster po-boy if you’re not in the mood for breakfast. There’s something for every appetite here! 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com
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AMERICAN
New Orleans 2022
435 Huey P Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net
Boulevard American Bistro, serves classic American dishes and offers top notch service. With multiple locations this restaurant has delicious starters, salads, sandwiches, and entrees that will appeal to every appetite. Try their pan-seared crab cakes, made with jumbo lump crab meat and served with fries and coleslaw. Multiple Locations, (504) 889-2301, boulevardbistro.com
1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
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JB’s Fuel Dock serves up mouth-watering pizzas, rotating specials, and a daily menu to satisfy guests’ appetites. Located on the waterfront, JB’s Fuel Dock’s open kitchen and bar layout is the perfect opportunity for intimate staff and customer interactions. Guests can meet new friends over cocktails or just take in the pleasant waterfront scene, while enjoying their tasty supreme pizza. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com
Houmas House, one of the south’s most senior plantation estates, hosts five restaurants: Latil’s Landing Restaurant, Café Burnside, the Carriage House Restaurant, the Wine “Cellars” of Houmas House, and Sunday Brunch. Each restaurant offers fresh farm-to-table Louisiana cuisine. Be sure to try their Louisiana ribs and turtle soup. 40136 LA-942, Darrow, (225) 473-9380, houmashouse.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop offers delicious sandwiches, southern comfort food, salads, and prime steaks and chops, with a strong emphasis on cocktail and wine service. Guests should sample Legacy Kitchen’s 22-ounce cowboy bonein ribeye, which arrives seasoned with butter and parsley love—it comes with a loaded baked potato, too. 91 Westbank Expressway #5, Gretna, (504) 5132606, legacykitchen.com Restaurant GUIDE
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10 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Luke is in New Orleans’ Central Business District and is a Creole-influenced brasserie. A vibrant ambiance includes a raw bar providing fresh seafood and oysters from the Gulf of Mexico along with other tasty dishes. Be sure to try their truffle glazed roast chicken, served with baby lima beans, confit tomato, bacon, and truffle jus. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840 lukeneworleans.com
Cho Thai will make you feel like you’re walking through the streets of Thailand. Chef Jimmy Cho’s menu consists of dishes from his mom’s kitchen and his travels. Enjoy ka pao chicken, shrimp pad Thai, seafood green curry, shrimp dumplings, and mango and sticky rice in a bright, upbeat setting. 3218 Magazine St., (504) 381- 4264, chothairestaurant.com
Ugly Dog Saloon offers the Warehouse District’s best barbeque, serving the neighborhood tasty classics with a Creole twist for nearly 25 years. Complete with a bar and barbeque platters you just can’t beat, here’s the spot to satisfy your cravings while watching a game. Try the Lafitte pig, which includes pulled pork and Canadian bacon. 401 Andrew Higgins Blvd., (504) 569-8459, theuglydogsaloon.com
ASIAN Asia, in the Boomtown Casino, serves Chinese and Vietnamese options, including pork potstickers, rice noodle soup, and General Tso’s chicken. Stop by Fridays through Sundays from 4:00 p.m. to midnight for special items, such as fried rice, sweet and sour chicken, tofu vegetables or shaking beef—tasty beef tenderloin in black pepper sauce. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 366-7711, boomtownneworleans.com
Mikimoto has been known as the premier destination for authentic Japanese fare in New Orleans for the past 20 years. Guests can expect delicious sushi rolls and quick customer service in a cozy environment. Some unique rolls on their menu include the “Geaux Saints maki roll” and the “Sex in the City roll.” 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com
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The Ruby Slipper has over ten locations across the Gulf South and provides a cozy environment and an expansive cocktail menu for all-day brunch. The Ruby Slipper uses local, fresh ingredients. If you’re seeking homey, delicious, brunch fare, look no further. Try the Ruby Benny when you go—you won’t be sorry. Multiple Locations, therubyslippercafe.net
Lakeview Harbor has been serving burgers, po-boys, and typhoon cocktails for the past 30 years. Lakeview Harbor also hosts lively events on holidays such as National Daiquiri Day, National Scotch Day, National Chicken Wing Day, and National IPA Day. Their juicy cheeseburger is the perfect thing to enjoy while you’re there.
New Orleans Vampire Café is inspired by the phantom, charming, and lavish cuisine found in the heart of the French Quarter. This café is eager for all to have a bite at their restaurant and feast on their exquisite dishes, including their grilled portobello served with tofu, baby chou, watermelon radish, and flavored with mushroom broth. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
Nola Steak, located in Boomtown Casino, is the perfect place to take a break from the blackjack tables. Whether you want to stop in for some onion rings and a beer or a glass of red wine and their 18-ounce cowboy steak, Nola Steak has you covered. Open Thursday through Saturday for dinner and Sunday for brunch, this place is a winner. 4132 Peters Road, (504) 3667711, boomtownneworleans.com
Spudly’s has served locals for over 40 years, providing “a meal in a baked potato.” It was opened by a brother and sister duo, and, to this day, delivers potatoes, burgers, salads, and po-boys in a modest, no-fuss setting. Treat yourself to the “shrimply put potato,” which comes with shrimp, cheese sauce, cheese, and chives. 2609 Harvard Ave., (504) 4553250, spudlys.com
8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
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Ernst Café is a historic saloon located in the center of the Warehouse District. Ernst Café serves delicious New Orleans cuisine alongside a lengthy beer list in a space that makes guests feel like they have stepped back to 1902. The café is blocks away from the French Quarter and serves one of the best bowls of gumbo in town.
Stumpy’s Hatchet House offers you a space to blow off some steam and bond with your coworkers or is a fun spot for a bachelorette party. Stumpy’s Hatchet House provides a controlled, safe environment for guests to throw hatchets at targets while snacking on hot dogs, popcorn, or nachos. 1200 Poydras St., (504) 577-2937, stumpyshh.com/ neworleansla
Thai'd Up offers modern Thai street food right in the Fairgrounds area. This new restaurant offers dishes made from recipes of the owners’ friends and family in Thailand and includes homemade beef jerky, roti in curry dipping sauce, and butter-Thai shrimp. There are so many delicious dishes, it’ll be hard to pick just one! 1839 Gentilly Blvd, (504) 3548202, thaidupla.com
600 S. Peters St., (504) 525-8544, ernstcafe.com
12 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Le Bon Temps Roule has been played by the likes of the Soul Rebels Brass Band, Kermit Ruffins, and Anders Osborne. It is a neighborhood bar, located Uptown, with local live music and late-night food. This bar is also known for being open 24/7, having fantastic Bloody Marys, and a pimento bacon burger that can’t be beat. 4801 Magazine St., (504)-897-3448, lbtrnola.com
Peacock Room, an upscale cocktail bar, serves luxury spirits with an eccentric interior design and shareable plates with live music. While the Peacock Room is known for its creatively-made cocktails, their peacock burger made with fried shallots, American cheese, and served with truffle fries and a secret sauce is not one to miss. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 324-3073, peacockroomnola.com
Alto Rooftop Bar is the best hangout for swimming, drinking, and eating, even if you aren’t staying at the Ace Hotel. Enjoy pizza, chicken wings, lettuce wraps, and other poolside fare. There’s a bar that whips up refreshing craft beers, wine, and delicious cocktails. Be sure to come during happy hour for specialty drinks and try their tasty lettuce wrap. 600 Carondelet St., (504) 900-1180, acehotel.com
Down the Hatch Bar and Grill offers pub fare in a casual, lively bar setting situated in the Garden District. Down the Hatch also features a comfortable outdoor bar and patio seating. Guests should be sure to sample the alligator po-boy, fried catfish platter, or the Texan burger with caramelized onions, which is a real treat. 1921 Sophie Wright Pl., (504) 5220909, downthehatchnola.com
BARS WITH GREAT FOOD
Buffa's is unofficially known as “the best place you’ve never been.” Since 1939, Buffa’s has been a no-frills establishment delivering classic American and Cajun cuisine, cocktails, and live music. Thinking about going? Think no further, and stop by for a Reuben with corned beef and sauerkraut. 1001 Esplanade Ave., (504) 949-0038, buffasbar.com
Rivershack Tavern, on River Road, is a live music club, a sports bar, and a neighborhood tavern combined into one charming venue. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this restaurant serves up great dishes each day to their loyal customers. Try their grits and grillades veal tenderloin for a real treat. 3449 River Rd., (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
STAFFY'ATWHEREORRESTAURANT,THEORCOURTESYPROVIDEDESCANELLE,GUSTAVOBYPHOTOS
JINX Bar & Grill offers good food and entertainment right in the heart of the Quarter. Come for brunch, happy hour, or a comedy show. They have shareable plates like JINX wings or pig pen poppers along with tasty sandwiches and burgers, such as the big kahuna, made with pepper jack, pineapple, and bacon. 91 French Market Place, (504) 510-2797, jinxnola.com
When you hear football, think Felix’s! Watch your favorite sliders,suchfootballenjoyinggamefootballwhileyourfavoritedishesasloadednachos,wings,bucketsofbeerandmore.
The Garage is a great spot to enjoy live music, hot DJ’s, and great food. Located just steps off Bourbon Street, it is a spacious place that regularly features open mic time, local bands, and has lots of room to dance. The Garage is a great spot to hit up after a big Saints win, and the food will satisfy any appetite—be sure to try their Cajun gumbo. 810 Conti St., thegaragemusicclub.com
The Jimani offers upwards of 100 beers, trivia, a jukebox, pub cuisine, and several TVs. Guests can start off with an appetizer such as fried pickle spears or broccoli bites, and continue with a classic entree like Nikki’s ooey gooey grilled cheese, Mama’s chicken club, or their classic hangover burger. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com
CAFÉ
SPECIALS GAME DAY
AVAILABLE DURING ALL NFL AND COLLEGE GAMES
Tracey's Original Irish Channel Bar is a hub of good eats and great times on Magazine Street as well as an Irish Channel flagship bar. With multiple TVs and plenty of cold beer on tap, Tracey’s is one of the city’s best sports bars. Settle in with an oyster po-boy to catch the game, meet up with friends, or simply enjoy the vibes of this neighborhood hangout. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 897-5413, traceysnola.com
Visit felixs.com to view the full Game Day Specials Menu
Cafe Amelie boasts aromantic courtyard in addition to a delicious menu with dishes ranging from cochon poutine to black truffle pasta primavera. Cafe Amelie continues to deliver premier service and is best known for its braised beef short ribs, which are served over sour cream mash, baby carrots, roasted parsnips, and red wine demi-glaze. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com
Carmo offers you the chance to taste the tropical flavors of Southeast Asia, West Africa, South America, the Caribbean, and the Gulf Coast. They have a selection of fresh, wholesome meals that’ll satisfy vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike. Feeling adventurous? Try the Peruvianstyle tiradito fish, topped with yellow chili peppers, yuzu sauce, and canchita. 527 Julia St., (504) 875-4132, cafecarmo.com
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14 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Café Normandie pays homage to French culture post-WWII, with cuisine inspired from French recipes. Located in the Higgins Hotel, their menu has options such as eggs benedict, breaded Kurobuta pork chops, and signature flat breads. The café is not too far from the museum, so be sure to stop by if you eat there for lunch. 1000 Magazine St., (504) 528-1941, higginshotelnola.com
big games and bold college-town taste, our new Slap Ya Mama® Buffalo Wing Sauce is the perfect cookout companion for crispy wings, sizzling pork chops, grilled chicken and more. It’s smooth. It’s buttery. It’s going to get everywhere. But with finger-licking flavor this good — who needs napkins? Scan Our QR Code to Shop Now! SlapYaMama.com
Inspired by late nights,
WING NIGHT IS CALLING.
The Vintage on Magazine Street is perfect for any occasions: coffee, brunch, happy hour, or wine night. With its Instagramworthy interior and cute swath of outdoor seating, there’s no better place to pass the hours, catch up with a friend, or simply take in all this restaurant has to offer. Be sure to try their fancy beignet flight while you’re at it. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 324-7144, thevintagenola.com
FRENCH
Willa Jean is New Orleans’ quintessential Southern café—with all the charm and tasty treats you could ask for. Located in the Central Business District, this chic spot is an enclave of cool coziness amongst the busy backdrop of the city. Favorites are the griddled banana bread and the fried chicken sandwich, with spicy pickles on a Hawaiian roll. 611 O'Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
Le Chat Noir is an upscale restaurant offering a fresh take on New Orleans cuisine. Le Chat Noir serves delicious small plates such as anchovies + focaccia and stuffed quail alongside large plates featuring pork chop and little neck clams. They boast an impressive drink menu and some of the best raw oysters in town. The agnolotti with scallops and oysters is not to be missed. 715 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-0045, lechatnoirnola.com
Bar Marilou is nestled in a cute library near the Maison de la Luz. The bar is a quiet little nook away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Their drink menu includes wine, beer, and spirits, but they also have signature cocktails including the blind serpent and Tokyo record. You can’t leave without trying their moules and frites 544 Carondelet St., (504) 8147711, barmarilou.com
Answer with a Bold Slap of Flavor.
15 C O N N E C T I O N T r e n a s s e . c o m ( 5 0 4 ) 6 8 0 7 0 0 0 4 4 4 S t . C h a r l e s A v e . I n t e r C o n t i n e n t a l H O T E L Thank you for voting Nus OLA's best
Josephine Estelle’s Southern-inspired Italian food is as delicious as the space itself is beautiful. The talented chefs emphasize homemade pastas, seasonal ingredients, and trusty recipes that have been passed down through generations. Some stand-out dishes include ricotta mousse with foie gras tortellini, maque choux, and speck-corn brodo. 600 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3070, josephineestelle.com
Nephew’s Ristorante is a testament to Frank Catalanotto’s family and its long history of cooking Creole and Sicilian food for New Orleans. They have fantastic cuisine and excellent customer service. Some notable dishes on the menu include the fresh mussels, clams, Louisiana gulf shrimp, with white wine, garlic, fresh basil, and fresh tomatoes. 4445 W. Metairie Ave., Metairie, (504) 533-9998, nephewsristorante.com
Mosca’s has served delicious Louisiana Creole Italian fare in family-style portions for the last 60 years. Guests can enjoy Italian classics such as spaghetti and meatballs, or sample one of Mosca’s infamous specialties such as the shrimp Mosca, which features shrimp in-shell seared with white wine and Italian seasonings. 4137 US-90 West, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Domenica, located in the Roosevelt New Orleans, is the perfect spot for a wonderful date night. Choose from the restaurant’s extensive wine list and soak in the cozy atmosphere. All pizzas and pastas are unique and delicious. Enjoy some of the restaurant’s mouth-watering antipasti including grilled octopus, roasted cauliflower, and definitely try their tagliatelle. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com
Pascal’s Manale is a family business that has been in the making since the early 1900’s. This restaurant is known for many dishes including its stand-up raw oyster bar and traditional Italian cuisine. However, they are famous for the perfection of their BBQ shrimp that brings visitors from all around the world. 1838 Napoleon Ave., (504) 895-4877, pascalsmanale.com
ITALIAN
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Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria offers fast, casual, authentic Mexican food at three different locations in New Orleans. Their mission is “to throw our neighborhood a party every day.” For individuals in search of fast, delicious tacos, a dynamic atmosphere, or key-lime margaritas, Felipe’s is the perfect spot. Be sure to try their carnitas tacos. Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com
Shaya features a mélange of Israeli classics with Southern flavors and contemporary culinary techniques while also incorporating locally-sourced ingredients. Shaya’s dishes are reminiscent of flavors from North Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Greece, and Turkey. Don’t leave without trying the fried chicken hummus.
Gita Pita offers fast-paced, fan-favorite food. With all the best in terms of shawarma, falafel, and pita, this new spot is sure to have you coming back again. The best part? You can order online off GrubHub, go in for pick-up, or stop by for take-out and enjoy your Gita Pita from anywhere in the city. 2530 Canal St, (504) 766-6519, facebook.com/ GitaPitaCanal
Lebanon’s Café offers sumptuous dishes ranging from rich, homemade hummus, to kabobs, to chicken shawarma. Feel free to bring your own beer or wine and enjoy no corkage fee. Lebanon’s is best known for its rosemary lamb chops, consisting of chargrilled lamb chops soaked in rosemary and served atop grilled vegetables. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
MEXICAN
Empanola serves up delicious South American empanadas. Empanola opened in 2017 and has since delivered Louisianainspired, Latin-influenced empanadas to New Orleans residents. They also cater to local parties, formal events, weddings, and brunches. Their empanadas are not to be missed. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
4123 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
Juan’s Flying Burrito is the funkiest taqueria this side of the Mississippi River. No matter which location you go to, you’ll find some of the most unique burritos in all of New Orleans. Favorites include the “flying burrito,” the “gutter punk,” and the “jerk chicken.” Juan’s tacos are incredible as well, such as the banh mi tacos with pickled carrots and daikon. Multiple Locations, juansflyingburrito.com
Tavolino offers some of the West Bank’s best casual Italian dining in addition to an adults-only lounge in the back of the restaurant. Tavolino’s specialty is the Behrman Highway pizza, which features Vietnamese caramel, jalapenos, fresh herbs, nuoc cham, carrots, radishes, and citrus braised pork belly. 141 Delaronde St., (504) 605-3365, tavolinonola.com
Venezia, since 1957 has been serving New Orleans some of the best classic Italian in town. While pizza is the house specialty—as advertised by the iconic sign hanging above the door—there isn’t a bad choice on the menu. Our personal favorite is the restaurant’s to-die-for veal Pontchartrain. 134 N. Carrollton Ave, (504) 488-7991, venezianeworleans.net
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Mr. Tequila is a New Orleans favorite known for putting a Tex-Mex twist on authentic Mexican fare. Guests keep coming back for more of Mr. Tequila’s delicious tacos and margaritas. A popular option is the 88-ounce margarita which guests (hopefully) share among themselves. Be sure to try the black and gold burrito while you’re there.
MIDDLE EASTERN
Pizza Domenica offers friendly service, relaxation, and upscale pizza, antipasti, and craft entrees anytime you dine with them. Cooking pizzas in their oven that was custom made and shipped all the way from Italy, they have innovative flavors and an inventive spin on American pizza. Their Calabrese pizza is one of their best. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
5018 Freret St., (504) 766-9660, mrtequilanola.com
Kingfish is a French Quarter restaurant specializing in contemporary southern fare. Enjoy dishes like their Louisiana crab cake, fried green tomatoes and shrimp remoulade, or New Orleans barbecue scallop fettuccine. Have a craft cocktail like their Blueberry Hill or Bonnabel and a bite while sitting in a beautiful vintage-feel setting. 337 Chartres St., (504) 5985005, kingfishneworleans.com
Desire Oyster Bar, in the Royal Sonesta New Orleans hotel, offers some of the best seafood in the city. Their oysters are top notch and can be ordered on the half shell, chargrilled, and even as a chargrilled Rockefeller. You won’t soon forget these oysters. They also have great apps like the Louisiana crab cakes and Cajun fried alligator. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 5532281, sonesta.com
Evangeline provides a taste of seasonal, fresh cuisine sourced from local fishermen and markets. They serve a wide selection of unique, flavorful microbrews ranging from light beers to dark stout. They are most known for their original crawfish and grits dish, which features crawfish sautéed in garlic with onion, green pepper, and mushrooms delivered over a bowl of Creole grits. 329 Decatur St., (504) 373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com
Mandina’s is a beloved casual restaurant also referred to as “the pink house” by members of the neighborhood. This New Orleans classic spot offers a blend of CajunCreole and Italian seafood, pastas, and steaks. Guests should arrive early to avoid the wait, and be sure to sample the gulf fish amandine. 3800 Canal St., (504) 4829179, mandinasrestaurant.com
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18 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Common Interest is located in the Hotel Indigo, right on the edge of the French Quarter and has delicious dishes that reflect New Orleans’ rich culture. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, they offer Nola favorites such as shrimp and grits, gumbo, jambalaya, as well as classics like steak n’ frites. 705 Common St., (504) 5955605, commoninterestnola.com
Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop’s award-winning gumbo with crawfish, shrimp, crabmeat, and okra is a Louisiana gumbo not to be missed. You can also enjoy exceptional cups of mumbo gumbo that include fried oysters, potato salad, and Louisiana-fried catfish. Don’t want gumbo? They’ve also got Creole-Cajun classics including jambalaya, red beans and rice, and crawfish étouffée. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com
Crescent City Brewhouse is known as the French Quarter’s sole microbrewery and the number one stop for local beer, music, and good vibes. Sit down, relax, and listen to live jazz performances by local musicians while you feast on creative cuisine and house-made beers. Try their “brewtails,” a cocktail that puts a twist on brewed beer, or their rich shrimp and grits. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
NEW ORLEANS CUISINE
Annunciation serves up a menu of classic and contemporary Creole and Cajun dishes and is located in a rehabilitated turn-of-thecentury warehouse, where Executive Chef Milton Prudence serves his guest sumptuous dishes like Annunciation’s famous grilled lamb chops that come with garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, and lamb sauce. 1016 Annunciation St., (504) 5680245, annunciationrestaurant.com
Apolline is located in a beautifully renovated double shotgun cottage on Magazine Street. Guests will appreciate an impressive menu with dishes ranging from roasted gulf fish couvillion to paneed veal medallions in addition to an expansive menu of wine and cocktails. For a real treat, try their seared diver scallops. 4729 Magazine St., (504) 894-8881, apollinerestaurant.com
House of Blues is a blues and rockthemed restaurant featuring southern fare such as jambalaya and po-boys and live music events. HOB fans are awaiting the return of their legendary Sunday Gospel Brunch. Until then, make a dinner reservation before the big show and receive special entry. The voodoo shrimp here is especially delicious. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com
20 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine OWNER/CHEF: FRANK CATALANOTTO OPEN FOR DINNER TUES - SAT: 5:30PM - 10PM 4445 W. METAIRIE AVE | 504-533-9998 NEAR CLEARVIEW PKWY • VALET AVAILABLE INDOOR & OUTDOOR SEATING NOLA,s Foodie Freaks Weekend Brunch! Amazing Food Specials Daily! 7910 Earhart Blvd. | 504-302-2404 Open Daily | Brunch Club Sat.–Mon. niceguysnola.com | @Niceguysnola GREAT HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS 2-for-1 Cocktails, $5andMargaritas,More! CHARGRILLEDOYSTERS AUTHENTIC NEW ORLEANS FOOD W/ A TWIST! DJ’S DURING OUR BRUNCH CLUB
508 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
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3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
Mother’s Restaurant features classic New Orleans dishes that are worth the wait. Guests gather at the line, ordering delicious, authentic New Orleans fare including “the world’s best ham” and fantastic homemade pies. Mother’s is especially known for their po-boys, hot plates, and fried seafood dishes.
Melba’s Old School Po-boys offers travelers a comfortable, friendly atmosphere to enjoy authentic cuisine. Also home to Wash World next door, Melba’s serves up delicious New Orleansstyle po-boys and chicken wings in addition to daiquiris, which can be purchased 24/7. Our favorite is their shrimp po-boy. 1525 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 267-7765, melbas.com
New Orleans Creole Cookery combines a traditional-style menu with a newgeneration aesthetic and energy. Among their traditional Creole menu, find their most famous dish, a pecan crusted redfish, fried and topped with a Creole green beans and heirloom potatoes that is sure to leave your southern soul satiated.
401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5472, neyows.com
Neyow’s XL serves you not only a memorable experience, but authentic New Orleans cuisine, including fresh seafood and well-seasoned steaks. At this restaurant, you’ll find an informed culinary staff and an atmosphere that will remind you of the unique cuisine New Orleans has to offer. Do yourself a favor and order the red snapper while you’re there.
Neyow’s Creole Café impresses its customers with their friendly servers, perfect southern-style dishes, and mouthwatering cocktails. While being an informal establishment, the flavors are anything but ordinary, especially their chargrilled oysters with shells filled to the brim with butter, cheese, and savory oysters.
810 CON TI ST
Nonno’s has authentic New Orleans dishes that serve love and flavor in each bite and in every interaction with the staff and locals. Now in a new location, their colorful exterior and cozy interior are reflected in the dishes that are served. Try their daily specials as well as their savory seafood egg rolls. 1940 Dauphine St., (504) 354-1364, nonnoscajuncuisineandpastries.com
Parkway Bakery & Tavern has been an iconic spot creating savory baked goods like fresh bread, donuts, and sweet rolls since 1911. Not only this, but their rendition of New Orleans’ style po-boys with homemade roast beef and gravy has made them a must-go eatery for all. Their surf and turf po-boy is highly recommended. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com
STEPS OFF BOURBON
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WhereYat.com | October 2022 21
Nice Guys Bar and Grill is a casual restaurant that serves delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine with their own nice twist. Owners Glenn and Allison Charles work together to make every dish served, tasty, and filling. Join them for brunch, lunch, or dinner and be sure to try their Lambo stuffed potato, featuring grilled lamb chops and barbeque shrimp. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2402, niceguysnola.com
Orleans Grapevine is in an elegant French Quarter building that is known for its romantic courtyard dining. Try wines by the glass from their collection that is one of the most extensive in town. There are small plates and entrees to enjoy with your wine. Try their signature Cajun surf and turf for the best of both worlds. 720 Orleans St., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Nola’s Wings and Things provides comfort and community in every dish that they serve. Whether it is their wings, with over ten different preparations and flavors, or their traditional New Orleans dishes such as jumbo shrimp or homemade gumbo, every dish will be delicious. 7906 Earhart Blvd., (504) 435-8117, facebook.com/nolaswingsandthings
Tito’s Ceviche and Pisco is a Magazine Street staple bringing Peruvian flavor to the Big Easy food scene. With happy hour deals every weekday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and a stellar Sunday brunch selection, Tito’s Ceviche and Pisco can be your go-to restaurant every day. Our recommendation? The tasty stuffed avocado with seafood salad and the pisco sour cocktail. 5015 Magazine St., (504) 267-7612, titoscevichepisco.com
Short Stop Po Boy is a popular, wellloved restaurant serving up scrumptious po boys with delicious assorted sides such as chicken fries, stuffed artichokes, and Short Stop’s signature gumbo. Guests come clambering back to sample either the chicken, sausage, and andouille gumbo, the seafood gumbo, and their roast beef po-boy keeps them coming back for more. 119
SEAFOOD
Multiple Locations, felixs.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox provides upscale casual Southern fare in the Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel. Guests can start off their meal with alligator poppers or loaded pimento cheese, and continue their dining experience with an order of Tacklebox’s famous chargrilled oysters that arrive in a garlic parmesan herb butter. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
Willie Mae’s Scotch House embodies New Orleans cuisine. Mixing all kinds of flavors from the Crescent City, this fanfavorite spot has been serving up the city’s best since 1957. You could never go wrong selecting from this southern menu, but you simply can’t miss the fried chicken, butter beans, and macaroni and cheese from this best-of establishment. Multiple Locations, williemaesnola.com
Briquette’s contemporary dining room offers customers the chance to watch as seafood is grilled on red-hot briquettes and tossed in seasoning and flavor. First-timers should try the Snapper Pontchartrain with scallops and a glass of bubbly. Up for a challenge? Try the Louisiana redfish on the half shell—you won’t believe your eyes.
701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquette-nola.com
Felix’s is a locally-owned restaurant and oyster bar that has attracted loyal fans since 1940. Felix’s has locations in the French Quarter, Lakefront, and Mandeville. Their oysters are sourced from the best Louisiana oyster beds and are sent straight to restaurant locations for optimal freshness. They are best known for their fresh, top-tier charbroiled oysters.
Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
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Blue Crab is a locally operated and owned eatery serving up fresh, delicious seafood to its guests. Guests can enjoy a cold beer, hot boiled crawfish, and crab with a view of the Pontchartrain to top off their experience. Do yourself a favor and order the shrimp and grits. Multiple Locations, thebluecrabnola.com
Please U Restaurant is cuisine influenced by local Greek entrepreneurs with over 40 years of cooking experience. It is a downto-earth eatery, serving all-day breakfast and culinary excellence. This can be tasted in their famous red beans and rice, a tasty dish with creamy red beans, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked rice. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Seaworthy is set against the backdrop of a classic Creole cottage built in 1832, where guests can enjoy locally-sourced seafood as well as sustainably-gathered oysters. A great date spot, guests should be sure to try one of Seaworthy’s signature dishes: mussels soaked in white wine and garnished with cilantro. 630 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3071, seaworthynola.com
22 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Trenasse is located inside the Intercontinental Hotel on St. Charles Avenue. With an extensive food menu including brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner, there’s something on the menu for everyone, but we’d personally recommend the smokey braised short ribs. For lovers of sea fare, their oysters are also an always-perfect choice. 444 St. Charles Ave., (504) 680-7000, trenasse.com
WhereYat.com | October 2022 23 B o o k Y o u r P a r t y N o w ! • REHEARSAL DINNERS • BUSINESS MEETINGS • SOCIAL OCCASIONS • INTIMATE RECEPTIONS 101 6 A nnunciation St . New Orleans, LA 70130 www.annunciationre staurant.com For event inquiries events@annunciationrestaurant.comcontact DINE-IN & TAKE OUT THURSD AY SUND AY 5 PM 10PM Please Call for Reservations (5 04 ) 568 -0245 B o o k Y o u r P a r t y N o w ! • REHEARSAL DINNERS • BUSINESS MEETINGS • SOCIAL OCCASIONS • INTIMATE RECEPTIONS 101 6 A nnunciation St . New Orleans, LA 70130 www.annunciationre staurant.com For event inquiries events@annunciationrestaurant.comcontact DINE-IN & TAKE OUT THURSD AY SUND AY 5 PM 10PM Please Call for Reservations (5 04 ) 568 -0245 Neighborhood Fine Dining in the Heart of the Warehouse District THURSDAY–MONDAY 5PM-10PM B o o k Y o u r P a r t y N o w ! • REHEARSAL DINNERS • BUSINESS MEETINGS • SOCIAL OCCASIONS • INTIMATE RECEPTIONS 101 6 A nnunciation St New Orleans, LA 70130 www.annunciationre staurant.com For event inquiries events@annunciationrestaurant.comcontact DINE-IN & TAKE OUT THURSD AY SUND AY 5 PM 10PM Please Call for Reservations (5 04 ) 568 -0245 Wednesday thru Monday Reservations@AnnunciationRestaurant.com5pm-close Book Your Holiday Party Now! • REHEARSAL DINNERS • BUSINESS MEETINGS •SOCIAL •INTIMATEOCCASIONSRECEPTIONS Jazz Brunch Sundays 10-3 with Jelani Bauman 501InsideTCHOUPITOULASthenewKimptonHotelFontenot Live Music Every Thursday 8pm - 10pm Da Lovebirds, featuring Robin Barnes and Pat Casey Live Music Every Sunday 7-9pm with Rachel Murray 504.324-3073• peacockroomnola.com1839 Gentilly Blvd. @thaidupnola504-354-8202 HOST YOUR PRIVATE EVENT OVERLOOKING HISTORIC ST. CHARLES STREETCAR LINE WITH BALCONY 715 St. Charles Ave. • Management@lechatnoirnola.com381-0045LeChatNoirNola.com•Resy
Middendorf’sWEST Seafood Restaurant
At the Manchac Bridge after miles of undeveloped swamp surrounding I-55 on the west side of Lake Pontchartrain, the original Middendorf’s Seafood Restaurant almost seems to be an illusion rising from the water. This oasis has strategically squeezed itself in between the banks of Lake Maurepas and Lake Pontchartrain on Bayou Manchac since 1934.
By Robert Witkowski
come true to work in this spectacular waterfront setting,” says Ross, a Louisiana native. “It’s the perfect setting to enjoy classic Louisiana dishes such as our duck and tasso gumbo— inspired by my grandmother’s recipe.” Other native dishes include gulf fish amandine, crispy chicken waffle, and New Orleans BBQ shrimp.
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After losing his job after the stock market crash in 1929, Louis along with his wife, Josie Middendorf, came to the little fishing village of Manchac from Houston. They opened their café with a $500.00 loan co-signed by a former mayor of New Orleans, T. Semmes Walmsley. While Louis chatted up local barflies, Josie cooked from her own personal recipes, including the thin fried catfish that has kept people flocking to Middendorf’s ever since.
The restaurant seamlessly transitions in and out of the surrounding waterfront, with large glass walls and stadium-style stepped levels, allowing views for customers dining inside or out. Towering cypress and oak trees surround the restaurant and are part of it at the same time with the bayou streaming in and around the outdoor dining area. Live jazz often accompanies Sunday brunches and dinners during the week.
24 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
FOOD WITH A VIEW
PalmettosEAST on the Bayou, Slidell
“It’sstreets.adream
Restaurants outside NOLA offer panoramas at “see level” of the water around us
A man-made beach and connected Tiki hut along the shore has thirsty beach-bum wannabes and party-goers channeling their inner Jimmy Buffet.
After five years creating a culinary splash at Restaurant August in New Orleans, Executive Chef Ross Dover’s cuisine can now be experienced along Bayou Bonfouca at Palmettos on the Bayou. Adjacent to Slidell’s Heritage Park, this upscale venue is an elegant oasis in what would otherwise seem a landlocked spot surrounded by busy
Famously below sea level, New Orleans has very few restaurants with views of the water, despite being surrounded by a huge lake, a mighty river, and oh so many canals. However, eateries outside the city limits with slightly higher elevations offer an array of waterfront dining experiences in unexpected places.
The waterfront location opens up the calming quiet of Bayou Manchac to the diners on the covered deck and the second-floor sunset dining room. Beyond that, docks allow patrons to take a before- or after-dinner stroll above the water, while also welcoming boaters to tie off for a bevy or a bite.
Chef Horst and his wife Karen Pfeifer took ownership of Middendorf’s after Hurricane Katrina. The team infuses energy and innovation into the place, but are careful to honor and respect its history and have not strayed from the recipes and specialties that has made the restaurant so popular.
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Experience true New Orleans Hospitality at one of our 7 restaurants that o er lively atmospheres and delicious cuisines for every occasion!
TheSOUTHRiver Shack Tavern, Gretna
On a large second story gallery rising above Lake Pontchartrain, The Barley Oak is a throwback to relaxed elegance. With high-top tables and ceiling fans, this Northshore “old world draught house” is a perfect perch to soak in the sparkling blue water of Old Mandeville. Boasting over a hundred craft brews on tap from around the globe, the pub menu is appropriately full of German-based fare such as a German sausage platter, pretzel basket, and a bratwurst dog,
Segnette Landing’s covered porch and open picnic tables afford diners views of the harbor front teaming with boats, from gulf-bound shrimp, and sea fishing vessels to flat-bottom and airboats touring the bayou’s wildlife. And occasionally, some of the wildlife make their way to the water’s edge to see what’s for dinner—it’s probably not your food they want.
The bar is extensive and the menu is upscale pub food. The rooftop nest on the Westbank offers Tex-Mex meals along with burgers and po-boys. Beyond this, the choices of salads, wraps, steaks, and brunch dishes are surprising and innovative.
26 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
but still caters to local taste with a Cajun sausage platter, smoked brisket sandwich, and
Next to the defunct ferry terminal in Old Gretna, the River Shack is tucked at the base of the levee along the Mississippi River. The grass berm effectively blocks water views at street level; however, the restaurant brilliantly incorporates an expansive deck above its building with breathtaking views of one of Ole Muddy’s famous riverbends and the CBD’s soaring skyline in New Orleans. Without much cover, the bar area aloft is often closed during the heat of the summer but makes for a lovely spot to welcome the
Where Italy meets the South. The unlikely marriage between classic Italian recipes and the bright and mystifying flavors of the American South.
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In reality, the alligators, birds, and fish are an ecosystem all to their own and are generally not interested in the people over the seawall but rather looking for food within the bayou itself. However, there is a thrill in spying these animals and reptiles in their habitat while enjoying the restaurant’s food and drink from a safe distance.AndSegnette Landing’s menu is part of that food chain. The kitchen creates notable Louisiana-inspired dishes such as Mrs. Allison’s crawfish pie, Creole white beans and shrimp, an oyster dinner, as well as fish and seafood platters fresh off the boat.
cooler breezes of fall leading into winter and the subsequent spring.
“Igumbo.always dreamt of opening my own bar. Although the concept of my ideal establishment has changed over the years, the vision has remained the same,” says owner Nick Powers. “I have unleashed my passion and set my dreams free. I open the doors to Sweepingyou.”views of the lake and the Causeway from the outside seats are indeed dreamy. Powers’ concept offers soothing vacation vibes, especially with colorful skies during fall sunsets. It’s a relaxed way to wind down a day for locals and visitors alike. After all, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.
An alligator pops his head above the seemingly tranquil waters in Bayou Segnette’s working harbor, and patrons quickly realize this is no ordinary waterfront dining experience. The inconspicuous cottage building is hiding in plain sight behind the bustling Westwego Shrimp Lot off the Westbank Expressway.
TheNORTHBarley Oak, Mandeville
The tavern prides itself on being “a cross between a neighborhood tavern, a live music club, a sports bar and a smalltown restaurant,” and succeeds on all counts. Walking in the door for the first time doesn’t feel intimidating—quite the opposite. You are practically welcomed in as a regular.
Segnette Landing, Westwego
So whichever way the compass rose points, may fair winds and following seas lead hungry travelers to a satisfying meal, paired with some natural Louisiana water, and drink in a relaxed waterfront dining experience.
Art and cuisine meet when you dine along the Jefferson Parish Louisiana Oyster Trail.
Look for the life size hand-painted, oyster sculpture unique to each restaurant along the trail. Come enjoy a meal that came out of its shell just for you.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 27 JEFFERSON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU, INC. WWW.LOUISIANAOYSTERTRAIL.COM www.louisianaoystertrail.com
TASTE OF TRAIL 8-13, 2022 participating restaurants offer promotional discounts & specialty dishes!
Featuring over two dozen eateries you can indulge in this delicacy in a variety of ways.
THE
| NOVEMBER
By Kathy Bradshaw
28 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine PUMPKINISTHESPICEOFLIFE everyusthatpumpkinaboutsomethingthere’sgeous,arePumpkinsgourd-andjustspicemakesfallforitfall. Cool weather and pumpkin spice are fall.intoeaseneedwhatjustweto suddenby pumpkin-flavored odorthe flavored andbooze thatchewing famousas AS itsThese with entity,technically,Tarts,way. flavor, itself. purposeof cloves,ginger,
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OUT OF YOUR GOURD
Every single part of the pumpkin is edible, even its stem and leaves, and eating it is very healthy. Pumpkin is low in calories and full of antioxidants, potassium, protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. That means that it’s good for your eyes, skin, and immune system, and it fights high blood pressure and hearing loss. Every pumpkin has around 500 seeds, which can help ward off prostate problems. Pumpkin was even formerly thought to get rid of freckles and cureThesnakebites.largestpumpkin ever grown weighed in at just over 2,700 pounds (the weight of a female walrus), and the biggest pumpkin pie in history was 20 feet in diameter and weighed 3,699 pounds (about the weight of a 2009 Ford Taurus).
As the potpourri of pumpkin spiciness begins to appear in supermarkets and coffee cups throughout the city, get out and enjoy while you can. Pumpkin spice season only comes once a year.
People were so nuts for nutmeg back then that in 1300s Europe, the spice held an equivalent value of seven fattened oxen and was more coveted than gold. Cloves, another player in the pumpkin spice game, were a similar extravagance. The British used to pay their dockworkers partially in cloves, and the Roman emperor Constantine the Great gifted the bishop of Rome with 150 pounds of cloves. All of this was perhaps a precursor to the $5.25 price tag of the beloved pumpkin spice latte.
There’s pumpkin spice everything: pumpkinflavored donuts and dog treats, candy and Kool-Aid, booze and butter. There’s pumpkin spice ice cream and iced tea, jelly and Jell-O, Chapstick, Cheerios, and chewing gum. There are even pumpkin-flavored items that have no business being pumpkin-flavored, such as ramen noodles, Spam, Pringles, and hummus.
The Banda Islands of Indonesia, which were part of the appropriately named Spice Islands, was the only place to find nutmeg in those days. Companies such as the Dutch East India Company sailed there to gather spices—sometimes violently—to sell to eager spice-craving buyers around the world.
Nutmeg, perhaps the ringleader of the pumpkin spice mixture, was once used as a treatment for the plague and is still believed to be both a narcotic and a hallucinogen.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 29
THE HISTORY OF SPICES, IN A NUTSHELL
As for pumpkin itself? This orange, Halloween-friendly fruit of the squash family is native to Mexico and Central America but currently grows on every continent except Antarctica. It is one of the earliest agricultural crops ever grown and comes in hundreds of varieties. The United States produces more than 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkins annually (that’s twice the weight of the Empire State Building).
Most people gauge when fall has arrived not by the slightly less sweltering weather, not by the sudden darkness at four in the afternoon, but when pumpkin-flavored merchandise starts appearing on the shelves. The ubiquitous gourd lends its taste and odor to an endless range of products.
These days, it’s hard to separate the pumpkin from its spice. “Pumpkin spice” has become synonymous with pumpkin-flavored, but it wasn’t always that way. Long before there were pumpkin spice PopTarts, Twinkies, and all the rest, it used to be—and technically, still is—that pumpkin spice was a separate entity, a spice synthesis used to enhance pumpkin’s flavor, rather than merely another name for pumpkin itself.Pumpkin spice, aka pumpkin pie spice, is a blend of spices that were first united with the express purpose of flavoring pumpkin pie. With cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and, often, mace and cloves, this spice conglomeration has been spicing up pumpkin recipes since as far back as 1675. The first-ever American cookbook, in 1796, contained a recipe for “pompkin pie,” which called for seasoning pumpkin with an early version of pumpkin spice. Today, pumpkin pie ranks as the top Thanksgiving dessert in the country, with over a third of Americans naming it their post-turkey pie of choice.
Following the invention of the pumpkin spice latte, the pumpkin spice craze spiraled out of control. Pumpkin and its many products now bring in about $600 million a year.
But the spices that go into that pumpkin spice blend date back thousands of years to the days of the spice trade. Back then, spices had a value and prestige that overshadowed even the pumpkin spice obsession of today. People fought wars, conquered lands, and massacred others to obtain spices. Although you might willingly wait in line over an hour for a pumpkin spice latte, we assume that you’ve never killed for one.
And, of course, we mustn’t forget the worldfamous pumpkin spice latte, which really started it all.
Libby’s first introduced canned pumpkin in 1929 and now produces 85% of the entire world’s canned pumpkin supply.
AS AMERICAN AS PUMPKIN PIE
Five years later, in 1934, famous spice conglomerate McCormick— the world’s largest spice seller—responded by releasing a commercialized version of pumpkin spice.
They allegedly stole nutmeg trees from the islands, ripping them up by the roots to plant elsewhere. The Dutch also gave up the colony of New Amsterdam (later Manhattan) to the British in exchange for an Indonesian spice-producing island—something of an ironic choice, considering New York City’s current pumpkin spice consumption.
Starbucks really put pumpkin spice on the map when they invented their famous namesake latte in 2003. These geniuses of latte lore poured espresso shots over pumpkin pie in various ratios until they perfected the recipe. In 2015, they reunited pumpkin and its spices by adding real pumpkin to the coffee drink. As of last year, Starbucks had sold more than 424 million pumpkin spice lattes globally, at an annual revenue of $80 to $100 million, making it their most popular seasonal drink by
A WHOLE LATTE PUMPKIN SPICE
Addis Nola, 422 S Broad Street (Moving to 2514 Bayou Road in fall 2022) addisnolarestaurant.com
NOLAADDISCOURRTESY
Want a stylish, lush spot for plant-based dishes in the Bywater? Sneak over to Sneaky Pickle (also known as Bar Brine after 5:30 p.m.). This cafe serves tofu tacos, tomato toast, assorted vegetable plates, vegan mac and cheese, a multigrain patty with fried eggplant, and a smoked tempeh reuben.
30 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
New Orleans restaurants serve plenty of plantbasedthey’remeals…andgood,too.
1000 Figs, 3141 Ponce De Leon Street #1 1000figs.com
From African to Vietnamese cuisine, there are vegan and vegetarian dishes for everyone to enjoy—even the omnivores. Check out these local restaurants for plantbased food, drinks, and desserts.
MORE PLANTS,PLEASE
By Cynthea Corfah
Addis NOLA
Saba, 5757 Magazine Street Suite A eatwithsaba.com
The Daily Beet, 1000 Girod Street & 3300 Magazine Street daily-beat.com
The Daily Beet is a plant-based cafe and juice bar partners with local farms to offer New Orleanians healthy food and drinks made from fresh, local produce. The café serves breakfast and lunch, salads, veggie bowls, acai bowls, avocado toast, smoothies, coldpressed juices, coffee, and tea.
Sneaky Pickle and Bar Brine, 3200 Burgundy Street yousneakypickle.com
At this authentic Ethiopian restaurant, the vegan food is just as good as the traditional menu. Its colorful bayenetu plate features a little bit of everything including red lentils, collard greens, yellow split peas, beets, cabbage with carrots, green lentils, mushroom tibs, sweet potato wot, and shiro (chickpea stew).
This quaint Mediterranean restaurant serves falafel platters, creamy hummus, marinated olives, brussel sprouts, roasted Creole tomato salad, and a kale and cabbage salad. The falafel platter has all of the necessities including falafel (fried chickpeas), a tangy kale and cabbage salad, tahini, zhoug (spicy cilantro sauce), toum (garlic sauce), and fresh bread.
Bask in the homey Middle Eastern tastes of renowned chef Alon Shaya’s restaurant Saba. The casual, family-friendly restaurant serves Israeli food including specialty hummus, labneh (strained yogurt), tabbouleh (salad), and falafel.
In 2022, plant-based offerings are essential for restaurants. With vegan and vegetarianfriendly diets becoming more common, plant-based dishes can be spotted on menus all over New Orleans.
Bearcat Cafe, 2521 Jena St & 845 Carondelet Street bearcatcafe.com
At Bearcat (both locations), you can eat the breakfast of champions, vegan style. Bearcat serves vegan quesadillas with tofu scramble, mushrooms, caramelized onions, cashew queso, and avocado. There’s also the vegan Bearcat including crispy potatoes, tofu scramble, black bean sausage, and an option to add on vegan pancakes.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 31
Fill up on vegan soul food at this Blackowned vegan restaurant. It features Louisiana soul food such as jambalaya, gumbo, red beans and rice, cornbread, mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet potatoes.
Lilly’s Cafe, 1813 Magazine Street facebook.com/LillysCafe
HiVOLT Coffee’s menu includes their roasted garden dish—a bowl of roasted root veggies, brussel sprouts, two poached eggs, cotija cheese, and chimichurri. Their mean greens comes with mixed greens, broccoli, chickpeas, apples, avocado, and pepitas with green curry dressing.
AvenueClaiborne810Garden,I-talNorth
Meals from the Heart Cafe, 1100 N Peters Street #13 mealsfromtheheartcafe.net
This low-key vegan and vegetarian restaurant in the Marigny serves bagel sandwiches, coffee, tea, vegan cookies, vegan carrot cake, curry, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
Good coffee, plant-based food, and vibes—how can you go wrong? This modern and vegan-friendly café serves hearty vegan breakfast burritos, avocado toast, bagels, berry bowls, tostadas, wraps, and sandwiches.
italgardennola. com
Delicious vegan soul food is possible.
This tropical café and bar serves tropical dishes such as the Amazonas—made with açai, yogurt, banana, cashews, pineapple, and raisins; Peruanos—made with white beans, quinoa, sweet potato, avocado, and salsa criolla; and Salvadorenos—
Lamara Coffee and Kitchen
Fritai, 1535 Basin Street fritai.com
32 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
HiVOLT Coffee, 1829 Sophie Wright Place hivoltcoffeepickup.com
Sweet Soulfood, 1025 North Broad Street sweetvegansoulfood.com
Lamara Coffee and Kitchen, 1300 North Broad Street lamaracoffeeandkitchen.com
This authentic Haitian restaurant has something for everyone. Vegan dishes include charred beet salad, mirliton salad, akra (spiced root vegetable), plantain chips served with avocado dip, and the Fritai sandwich made with two fried plantains (as buns), avocado, mango sauce, pikliz ofyourrelish),(spicyandchoiceprotein.
made with refried beans, queso fresco or vegan cheese, scrambled eggs (or tofu), plantains, and a house-made tortilla.
Breakaway’s R&B, 2529 Dauphine Street breakawaysrb.com
New Orleans restaurants prove it. This Black-owned restaurant serves avocado fries, crabless crab cakes, dairy-free mac and cheese, cauliflower wings, fried mushroom strips, vegan burgers, soups, and salads.
From chef and owner of Green Goddess, Paul Artigues, this casual restaurant has a mix of traditional and vegetarian-friendly dishes. Menu offerings include mushroom fritters, a tofu po-boy and the green goddess wedge salad—made with bib lettuce, green goddess dressing, avocado, pickled beets, hearts of palm, pecans, cucumbers, and bleu cheese.
and soups. Vegan options include gumbo, red beans and rice, burgers, crab cakes, crab cake tacos and po-boys, salads, and blueberry pancakes.
Small Mart Cafe, 2700 Chartres Street instagram.com/smallmart
Breads on Oak is where locally baked breads meet organic, plant based cuisine. This laid-back, plantbased, artisan bakery and café sells assorted breads, baked fries, sweets, coffee drinks, and all-day breakfast items including vegan-egg breakfast sandwiches, avocado scramble toast, Creole tomato toast, and a pumpkin cheddar biscuit sandwich.
Plan a date night at Lilly’s Cafe. This Vietnamese restaurant serves a flavorful vegan pho, tofu dishes and traditional Vietnamese dishes including spring rolls, egg rolls and banh mi.
1000 Figs
CORFAHCYNTHEAKITCHEN;ANDCOFFEELAMARACOURTESYTOP:FROM
Carmo, 527 Julia Street cafecarmo.com
Breads on Oak, 222 Carondelet Street and 8640 Oak Street Suite A breadsonoak.com
Meals from the Heart Cafe serves breakfast dishes, salads, sandwiches, tacos, gumbos,
WhereYat.com | October 2022 33 544 Carondelet barmarilou.comSt@barmarilou A spirited sanctuary in the heart of New You’reOrleans.invited. 1001 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 crescentcitysteaks.com (504) 821-3271 88 CelebratingYEARSOFBUSINESS
“A beignet is comfort food, and I think people love it just for that,” says Emily Jaeger of Café du Monde. “The beignet has been served along with a cup of coffee since 1862, and it has become part of the fabric of New Orleans.”
Locals have caught on to what tourists knew all along.
Eugenie Stevens, marketing manager at Café Beignet, another popular beignet restaurant, adds that they produce a combined total of as many as 36,000 beignets every week at their multiple locations.
Beignets are French in both origin and name. They came to New Orleans with the Acadians, or “Cajuns,” when they first settled in Louisiana in the 18th century. Most experts believe that people have been frying up beignets since at least as early as the 1500s in France. But they could date back even further to ancient Rome—which, in fact, is said to be the birthplace of all donuts worldwide—before the French adopted them as their own.
HIP, HIP BEIGNET!
MONDEDUCAFECOURTESY/CARUSOROMNEY
Yet tourists are not alone in their passion for these pastries. Locals are also rather enthusiastic about beignets—proven by the popularity of the annual Beignet Fest, being held this year on September 24 in City Park.
POWDER TO THE PEOPLE
This ongoing demand for dough is a testament to how ingrained beignets are in local culture.
Underneath the mounds of powdered sugar, there hides a doughy dessert with history, personality, and enough flavor to live up to the hype. Hooray for the beignet.
New Orleans tourists are predictable. Probably at least one in three will ask you for directions to the nearest beignet shop, while the other two will have already figured out where to find it and braved the crowds to go there. You can spot them by the plastic cups full of café au lait they’re toting and the dandrufflike sprinkling of white decorating their souvenir t-shirts.
Café du Monde
THE BEIGNET, BACK IN THE DAY
By Kathy Bradshaw
First opened in 1862, Café du Monde is a family-owned business nearly in its fourth generation. It has served millions of beignets in its 160-year history and, according to Jaeger, now cranks out thousands daily, with up to 60 at a time in one fell swoop, and in a single fryer.
Although many locals have their favorite spot, Café du Monde’s original French Market location is perhaps the best-known and most frequented beignet shop of them all. It’s the oldest, the original, the Recognizableringleader.byitsgreen and white awning and the usual line around the block, this temple of beignets at the foot of Jackson Square is like a beacon to carb-lovers and powdered-sugar junkies all around the French Quarter. The smell of fried dough wafting through the air calls them in like the song of the sirens.
Beignets are an iconic New Orleans dessert—those warm, cushiony hunks of fried dough, piled high with enough powdered sugar to swim in. They’re a staple of New Orleans cuisine, our official state doughnut. But what is it about beignets that makes people willing to stand in line for an hour to get a plate of three of them with a cup of chicory coffee?
34 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
WhereYat.com | October 2022 35 DISCOUNTED ACCOMMODATIONS & TICKETS CALLCODE:855.501.8687BEER22 BAYTOWNEBEERFESTIVAL.COM SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT PRESENTS OCTOBER7 A 8 FOR MORE EVENT INFO: THE 14TH ANNUAL BAYTOWNE WHARF -FRIDAY OCT 7BEER FROM AROUND 6PM-8:00PMHERE $55 IN ADVANCE -SATURDAY OCT 8CRAFT TASTINGBEER EVENTS PLAZA 2-5PM $45 IN ADVANCE $55 AT THE DOOR Daisy Dukes 121 Chartres St. French Quarter Daisy Mae’s 902 Poydras St. Warehouse District Daisy Dukes Express 123 Carondelet St. CBD Daisy Dukes Cafe 308 St. Charles Ave. 22441200DaisyCBDDukesW.ApproachMandevilleDaisyDukesVeteransBlvd.Kenner Come visit any of our 7 locations: AWARD BLOODYBLOODYWINNINGMARYSMARYS Daisy Dukes 5209 W. Napoleon Ave. daisydukesrestaurant.comMetairie •Dinner!•Lunch•BreakfastServing
To keep up with the demand for the mountains of powdered sugar needed to top their many beignets, Café du Monde stocks their kitchens with 50-pound bags of the Domino variety and estimates that they go through probably a ton of it every week. That’s enough for 11 average-sized
Aspen, Colombia, and New Orleans—all three of these places are well-known for their white powder. Ours comes in sugary form.
Powdered sugar is made by grinding and crushing granulated white sugar into a fine powder and then mixing it with cornstarch. It’s light and airy and easily catches the breeze, which means that there’s a constant mist of powdered sugar fogging the air anywhere within a one-mile radius of a pile of beignets. Dress accordingly and leave your dark attire at home—there’s a reason why Café du Monde staffers wear white.
IT’S BEIGNET GREAT!
There’s just something about a beignet, although it can be difficult to put a white, sticky finger on just what it is that makes it so deliciously endearing.
Though the word beignet is usually thought to simply mean “doughnut” in French, it more closely translates to “fritter” and hasn’t always been sweet. In France, beignet applies to virtually anything that is battered and fried—perhaps a connection to the ever-increasing diversity of our own local beignets. Not just for dessert and late-night snacks, beignets also serve as appetizers or even an entire meal, and they run the gamut of flavors and fillings—from sweet to savory, crawfish to cream cheese, praline to prosciutto.
tourists to eat their weight in powdered sugar.
36 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
“At Café Beignet, our beignets are handmade and served fresh, hot, and cooked to order,” says Stevens. “They have a crispy outside and a soft, sweet center.”
GIVE ME SOME SUGAR
300 BOURBON STREET • NEW ORLEANS, LA 70130 STAYFORACOMEFORHAPPYHOURSHOW Scan Below for Showtimes and to Buy Tickets BRADSHAWKATHYPHOTOS:ALL
Beignets have become known a New Orleans
treat
A DOUGHNUT BY ANY OTHER NAME
…and sizes.
as
The traditional, white-crested beignet remains the standard, however. Those beignets are made with several very basic ingredients: flour, milk, buttermilk, salt, sugar, leavening ingredients (baking powder, baking soda, and/ or yeast), and flavoring. They’re then fried, topped with powdered sugar, and doled out to eagerly awaiting doughnut devotees.
Beignets may have begun as a rich Frenchman’s indulgence, due to the expense at the time of deep frying and the high cost of the animal fat and cookware that would have been used. Nowadays, however, they’re a dessert for the masses—masses that may reach as many as 6,000 people on any given day at Café du Monde and 12,000 to 15,000 weekly at the Café Beignet locations.
Beignets can come in all shapes…
It’s kind of like a deep-fried hug.
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38 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Great Spots in NOLA for “Vietnamese Po-Boys”
Founded by talented chefs Cynthia VuTran and Minh Bui, Café Minh is an incredible establishment that mixes flavors and influences from Saigon, France, and the United States. Located in Mid-City, some of the restaurant’s stand out dishes include the jumbo diver scallops and the red curry shrimp pasta. While Café Minh’s bánh mìs are only available during lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., they are definitely worth taking a lunch break for. The bánh mìs
Right near the Mississippi River in Uptown, Jazmine Café is a cozy place that specializes in a large variety of Vietnamese and other Asian flavored dishes. In addition to vermicelli salad bowls, rice plates, and Vietnamese crepes, the restaurant also has an extensive spring roll menu, as well as customizable poke bowls. Jazmine Café’s bánh mìs are straight forward, but delicious, with choices of grilled lemongrass pork, shrimp in a teriyaki sauce, lemongrass chicken, and tofu with soy sauce. For an upcharge of just $2.75, customers can even add scrambled eggs to any of their bánh mìs.
LE’S BAGUETTE BANH MI CAFE, 4607 Dryades St. 504-895-2620, facebook.com/lesbaguettenola
By Burke Bischoff
BISCHOFFBURKE
BANH MI BOYS Multiple Locations, bmbsandwiches.com
Established in 2015, Banh Mi Boys is a popular local establishment that has locations in both Uptown and Metairie. The restaurant’s bread and butter are bánh mìs, obviously, but their sandwiches are actually quite a bit diverse in terms of the fillings customers can choose from. Some of the more creatively inspired bánh mìs on offer include honey sriracha shrimp, smoked duck sausage, and chicken katsu, which is panko fried chicken topped with furikake seasoning, Japanese mayo, and tonkatsu sauce. Banh Mi Boys also has plenty of options for vegetarians, including tofu and portobello mushroom bánh mìs.
Located not too far from both French Truck Coffee and Pascal’s Manale, Le’s Baguette Banh Mi Café is a quaint
MR. BUBBLES CAFÉ, Multiple Locations facebook.com/MrBubblesCafe
A bánh mì, just like a po-boy, is a baguette-style sandwich and is considered to be a staple food in Vietnam. Relatively unknown in the Western world until the Fall of Saigon in 1975, bánh mìs have become increasingly popular in the United States, especially in the Greater New Orleans area thanks to the large Vietnamese communities in both Orleans and Jefferson Parishes. While almost always filled with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapenos, bánh mìs can be just as creative and adaptable as NOLA’s favorite sandwich. In celebration of the “Vietnamese po-boy,” here are some of the best places in New Orleans to grab a bánh mì.
PHỞ TÂÙ BAY, 1565 Tulane Ave. 504-368-9846, photaubayrestaurant.com
on offer, all of which are served with French fries, include charcoal pork, garlic beef, and either grilled or tempura fried, five-spiced chicken.
DONG PHUONG RESTAURANT & BAKERY, 14207 Chef Menteur 504-882-9878,Hwy.dpbakery.com
A true New Orleans classic, Dong Phuong is not only one of the most famous Vietnamese establishments in the Big Easy, but also the entire country. Located in New Orleans East, the James Beard Award-winning bakery and restaurant is known best for its unique king cakes, incredible French bread, and large assortment of traditional Vietnamese dishes and baked goods. Dong Phuong’s selection of bánh mìs range from the traditional like Vietnamese ham and French cold cuts to more experimental like Impossible bulgogi and toasted shrimp patty. Dong Phuong is easily worth a car ride to the East for its amazing food.
CAFÉ MINH, 4139 Canal St. 504-482-6266, cafeminh.com
JAZMINE CAFÉ, 614 S. Carrollton Ave. 504-866-9301, jazminecafe.com
With one location on Canal Street and another in the Hong Kong Food Market in Gretna, people on both sides of the river can enjoy Mr. Bubbles Café’s delicious bánh mìs and refreshing boba teas. The café offers pork in multiple different ways (grilled, BBQ, and roasted) and they are all tasty. There are also some vegetarian options as well: lemongrass tofu bánh mì at the Canal Street location and the avocado bánh mì at both sites. Make sure not to pass up on Mr. Bubbles’ wide selection of bubble teas such as the iced Vietnamese coffee, strawberry & mango, and Thai milk tea.
Originally a very popular Vietnamese spot on the Westbank, Phở Tâù Bay eventually moved to Tulane Avenue and has been flourishing there ever since. The restaurant is known best for its wide array of traditional soups like phở, spicy marinated beef stew with carrots, veggie soup with deepfried tofu, and more. Customers who are in the mood for a bánh mì will have 12 different ones to choose from and all are served with shrimp chips. Some of the selections include bánh mì pâte thịt (homemade rolled ham with chicken liver sausage), bánh mì thịt nướng (sliced chargrilled pork), and bánh mì gà (stir-fried marinated chicken).
BÁNH MÌS FOR YOU & ME
spot in Uptown that serves typical Vietnamese fare such as phở and jasmine rice. Along with standard bánh mì selections including pork, chicken, and tofu, the restaurant also has a few specialty sandwiches. These include the oyster bánh mì with coleslaw and house made remoulade, as well as the five spice BBQ pork belly bánh mì with sriracha aioli. Patrons can also enjoy different coffees, wines, beer, and bubble teas while sitting at one of Le’s Baguette’s outdoor tables.
With its distinctive bread and multitude of delicious fillings, the humble po-boy sandwich is a New Orleans classic that locals go absolutely wild for. So it should come as no surprise that when a similar sandwich of Vietnamese origins got introduced to NOLA after the 1970s, locals welcomed it wholeheartedly.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 39 Join us for amazing live music, local cuisine, carnival rides, kayak rentals, swamp tours, and an art walk! GET READY TO LET LOOSE!NOVEMBER11-13TOWNOFJEANLAFITTE.COM | 504.689.2208 Explore Our Magic, Romance, and Excitement November 5, 6, 1, 1, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 December: 3, 4, 10 & 11 Hammond, LA
DINNER IS THE SHOW
Josephine Estelle front of house has windows into the back of house
Saint John prep for all to see
What is art without an audience? What would a book be without a reader, a movie without viewers, a song without a listener? What would a carefully-crafted, expertlycooked gourmet meal be without someone to eat it? For many chefs, seeing people taste and savor the food they make is the reason that they do what they do. And that’s difficult to do behind a wall.
Some restaurants in New Orleans have taken that wall separating the kitchen and dining room down for the amusement of the diners and for the delight of the staff. The chefs of these open-kitchen restaurants enjoy watching you enjoy their food in a fascinating cyclical conversation that does not requireChefwords.EricCook currently operates two restaurants with the kitchens right in the middle of the dining area. With both table and counter dining, Gris Gris on Magazine Street and Saint John on Decatur Street are designed to create a conversation between the staff and the diners. “My favorite thing that I love about the industry is the interaction. It’s the hospitality. It’s the conversation. It’s the ability to connect with your guest on a level that’s very intimate. There’s nothing more intimate
By Emily Hingle
RestaurantsOpen-Kitchen
40 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine (2)HINGLEEMILY
than feeding people, but cooking things in front of people and having an interaction with them, it’s very similar to my home life. That’s how the menu was designed and how the concept of the restaurant was designed because my home has a big kitchen, and it’s the heart of the house,” said ChefToEric.bring people into your kitchen is to tell them who you are, to allow them to see your being. It can be a form of self-expression like any other art. “We call the line at Saint John, Broadway. No matter what’s going on, when you step onto that stage, you have to be in character. It's an expectation. It’s a preconceived notion that we have to tell a story just through our movements and our actions about what kind of restaurant we are,” he stated. “If it was a silent movie, and you
WhereYat.com | October 2022 41 7AM – 10PM Validated Parking 401 Poydras • MothersRestaurant.net • (504) 523-9656 Photo: @jholano
good first dates, and, unfortunately, those bad, awkward ones too.”
Saint John
watch that line and watch us work together and see the way things flow, you would know right away those guys are professionals. They know what they’re doing. You’re creating a memory.”ChefEric is not content with just two stage-like restaurants, he will be opening a third restaurant soon, and he is feverishly prepping it to open. He divulged, “We partnered with the Arrive NOLA hotel down in the Bywater to open Restaurant Julia Brown and Bar 1915. Julia Brown was a very powerful Voodoo priestess in the late 1800s/ early 1900s. Legend has it that as she was getting older, and she wasn’t getting along with the townsfolk. On her deathbed, the town leaders came out and asked what they could do for her. She said ‘I told y’all when I die, I’m gonna take the whole town with me.’
42 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
(2)HINGLEEMILY
The show must go on at Josephine Estelle
Josephine Estelle is named after ChefPartners Michael and Andy’s daughters, and their other restaurants also bear family names. A view into the dining room allows them to enjoy their patrons’ wonderful family moments which is what it’s really all about. “We love seeing you blow out your candles when your birthday dessert hits the table. We can hear you laughing and see you smiling when you’re enjoying the company of a table full of people you love. To be honest, there is no better feeling for us than seeing the eyes light up, a big happy smile, and the head shake that happens when someone truly enjoys our cooking. Food, especially good food, is so powerful. It stirs your emotions, it creates memories and it brings such joy to all those involved – whether you’re the one looking into the kitchen, or you’re the one looking out. We’re all sharing that moment, and that’s amazing when you really think about it.”
Sunday dinners with our families. Growing up, it was about making sure any guests were greeted warmly, treated like they were one of our own and, of course, that they were fed really well. It’s that spirit of generosity and genuine welcome that we try to replicate in all of our Chef-Partnersrestaurants.”Michael and Andy agree with Chef Eric that they enjoy watching the diners just as much as diners enjoy watching the action of the kitchen. Seeing a negative reaction to a dish right away can help them rectify an issue. They continued, “The fun and funny thing about an open kitchen is that it’s really a two-way experience. As a guest, you can peer in and watch us doing our thing, giving you this ‘behind the scenes’ or ‘backstage’ access. But y’all know we can see you too, right? We keep an eye on those
Chef Eric Cook
She passed away. At her funeral in 1915, the first recorded Category 4 storm hit southern Louisiana, and the eyewall went through Freniere, taking out the whole town. With New Orleans culture, our restaurants, our food, our history, it’s fun for us to research and learn and then share those stories with the guests in our food. It’s another way to bring that level of hospitality and connection to ourAceguests.”Hotel’s Josephine Estelle may have one of the tallest ceilings of any restaurant in New Orleans, but they make it feel more like home with a kitchen that has open windows in the room. Chef-Partners Michael Hudman and Andy Ticer enjoy bringing the kitchen into the dining space to achieve a family feel. “We never really thought about the open kitchen being like one of our grandmas’ houses, but it actually does make sense. Our grandmas would always invite people into their kitchens while they cooked,” they said. “The best stories and gossip were always shared there. Our style of hospitality was shaped by big
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WhereYat.com | October 2022 43
Royal Frenchmen Trumpet Mafia
New Orleans Marriott Jon Sheckler Orpheum Theater Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Fritzel’s All Star Band, Richard “Piano” Scott
DMACS Paggy Prine, Pizza Fam Jam Band
The Jazz Playhouse Brass-A-Holics
The Sazerac House Candlelight Toulouse Theatre Tasche de la Rocha, The Lostines
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin Fritzel’s Jazz Pub “Piano” Scott Gasa Gasa Hi Ho Lounge Hotel
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
DeutschesCapulet
DMACS Monday Blues Jam
Lil Red Bamboula’s Les Getrex Bayou Bar
Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers Combo Blue Nile Brass Band
Gasa Gasa Quaker City Night Hawks House of Blues Rare Americans
Theater
One Eyed Jacks Fontaines D.C., Wunderhorse
Santos Bar Escuela Grind
21st Amendment Marty Peters
Da Jump Off Lounge Big 6 Brass Band
Cafe Negril Colin Davis, Dana Abbott Band Cambria Hotel Woody Loudermilk
OneOakMusicMapleMRBHouseMonteleoneofBluesLeafBarBoxVillageWineBarEyedJacks
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds
Hi Ho Lounge Bluegrass Pickin’ Party MRB Ben Buchbinder
BJ’s Lounge Little Freddie King BMC Balcony
DMACS L.Y.O.N., Will & the Foxhounds
Orpheum Theater Beach House
Zony Mash Charlie Wooton’s Zaba Do Dat, Paisley Fields
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet Cafe Negril Super-Most-Fantastic-Blues-N-Such Jam
House of Blues Electric Ramble, Tinariwen, Westside Boogie
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Blue Nile, Kermit Ruffins, Trumpet Slim Cafe Negril Dana HeightsBand,AbbottHigher StationCarrollton MaimoneMike
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Dos Jefes Mark Coleman Band
MRB Lynn Drury
THURSDAY,Mash
SEPTEMBER 22
Gasa Gasa, Lolly Mariah, Gucchi Marie Hard Rock Cafe Jamie Lynn Vessels House of Blues Conway the Machine, Mark B MRB Lynn Drury
Old Point Bar Terry McDermitt Orpheum Theater New Orleans Swinging Gypsies,Nurse Blake
Brewing Co. Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Gasa Gasa King Buffalo House of Blues Or Shovaly Plus, Rexx Life Raj Old Point Bar Anaïs St. John
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Da Empire K. Michelle
30/90 Neicy B & Kompani Bayou Bar Cafe Negril Such Jam
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Richard Scott
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
New Orleans Jazz Museum Shannon Powell Pour SpottedSantosHouseBarCat
IIIWHITEJACKCOURTESY JACK WHITE AT THE FILLMORE Come catch Jack White and his Supply Chain Issues tour for a true experience of garage rock. Friday, September 23, 7 p.m., $65 to $265; @TheFillmoreNola
Fillmore Jack White Fritzel’s Jazz Pub SaavedraJohn Band, Richard “Piano” Scott Gasa Gasa Kaye The Beast, Ethos of Izba House of Blues DickersonWill NightclubMetropolitan
Capulet Shea Pierre Fillmore Flaming Lips
DMACS Aden Paul
FaubourgDosDMACSD.B.A.Jefes
Buffa’s Bar Doyle Cooper Trio Capulet Suzanne Ortner
Fillmore Halestorm
SEPTEMBERSUNDAY, 25 Amendment21st
St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Yulene Velasquez Sweet Lorraine’s Chucky C
D.B.A. Russell Welch’s Hot Four, Secret Six Jazz Band
The Maison Marty Peters
Poor Boys King Khan, Static Static Saenger Theatre Diana Krall Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band
Preservation Hall Preservation Brass Band Royal Frenchmen Jazz Vipers Sidney’s Saloon DarkLounge Ministries
Mother-in-Law Lounge New Groove Brass Band
Haus
The Howlin Wolf Girl God
Cafe Istanbul WHATEVER FOREVER Cafe Negril The Sierra Green Show, The Villains City Park Festival Grounds Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Shamarr Allen
New Orleans Jazz Museum Lilli Lewis
Bistro Orleans
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Dos Jefes Kris Tokarski
Bayou Bar
Bullet’s Sports Bar Kermit Ruffins Cafe Negril Piano Man “G”, Sierra Green Capulet Russell Welch
EAST RICH The Maison City of Trees Brass Band Tipitina’s Galactic Windsor Court Hotel SaturdaysSongbird
Buffa’s Bar Cafe ConstantinopleNegril Stage Musselwhite
The Broadside Eric Vloeimans, Will Holshouser Duo The Howlin Wolf Game Game, Hot 8 Brass Band Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band
Sternberg
The Howlin Wolf Comedy Beast
Balcony Music Club Or Shovaly Plus Bamboula’s PB & J Jazz Band
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Fritzel’s All Star Band
Gasa Gasa Creature Canyon, Lyla DiPaul Hotel Monteleone Lena Prima House of Blues Dick Deluxe Revue Kitchen Table Cafe Dr. Mark St. Cyr Traditional Jazz Band
Zony Mash Rebirth Brass Band
Pour House Jam Night
Capulet Brian Quezergue
Seven Lions NOPSI Hotel
Dominick Grillo, Marty Peters AllWays Lounge Musician Jam Atchafalaya Woody Wood BMC Balcony
Pour House Jamey St. Pierre Preservation Hall Gregg Stafford Santos Bar RAVEN and Riot Act Southport Hall Richie Kotzen Spotted Cat The Tropicales St. Pat’s Irish Coffeehouse The Celtic Music Session
AllWays Lounge Nola Dukes Band
DMACS Jamey St. Pierre LoungeDavenport DavenportJeremy
Republic Orion Sun, Remi Wolf Santos Bar Nervochaos, Hidden Intent
Southport Hall Norma Jean Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band
Switchfoot
New Orleans Jazz Museum Arrowhead Jazz Band Orpheum Theater
Cafe Negril The Budz, Colin Davis Cambria Hotel Woody Loudermilk
MRB Clint Johnson
Treme Hideaway Brass Band
30/90 Street LYFE
The Broadside Honey Island Swamp Band Tipitina’s Big Sam’s Funky Nation Toulouse Theatre Crooked Colours and Swimm Washington Windsor Court Hotel Songbird Fridays
Preservation Hall Preservation Hall Jazz Band
MUSIC CALENDAR
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Shotgun Jazz Band
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Blues
Blue BourbonNile O Bar The Leroy Marshall Show, The Music Man
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub John Saavedra Band, Richard “Piano” Scott
East Bank Regional Library
The Broadside Vieux Farka Toure
Capulet Jelani Bauman
Royal Frenchmen Hotel & Bar Trumpet Mafia Saenger Theatre Earth Wind & Fire Santos Bar Pink Turns Blue Saturn Bar Mike Clement, Jon Sheckler, and Quinn
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Gasa MahaliaHouseGasaofBluesJackson
Bamboula’s21st30/90Amendment
30/90 Orphaned In Storyville Archdiocese of New Orleans The Vigil Project Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson Blue Nile George Brown Band, The Marigny Street Brass Band
AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane Bourbon O Bar Jelly Roll Stompers
Pour House Ron & Tina’s Open Mic Night Preservation Hall Wendell Brunious Republic NOLA Deorro
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Fillmore Chevelle
46 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Bourrée Tom Andes
New Orleans Jazz Museum David Batiste, Ella Project
Germaine Bazzle Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band, Shake’em Up Jazz Band The Broadside Michot’s Melody Makers Quintronand The WolfHowlin
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
The Well Stooges Brass Band
Matt Lemmler
The Howlin Wolf Comedy Beast
The Howlin Wolf Kerwin Claiborne
Crown of Thornz, Smoothie King
Peter Harris Trio StadiumBehrman , deGrupoAtardecer,ConjuntoMontezDurango
Gasa Gasa The Ries Brothers and Honey Hounds
Bamboula’s PB & J Jazz Band
DMACS Chris Zonada
Maple Leaf Bar Johnny Vidacovich, Michael Pellera Mid-City Lanes Rock ‘n’ Bowl Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas
Spotted Cat Music Club Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
Zony Mash Rebirth Brass Band
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
The Goat Hyena Black
The Broadside Mike Dillon Band, James Singleton
21st Amendment Lime Tree Jazz Band
Bamboula’s Sigrid & The Zig Zags, Wolfe John
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Dos Jefes Javier Gutierrez
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band
New Orleans Jazz Museum Fermín Ceballos
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Fritzel’s All Star Band, Richard “Piano” Scott
Chris Christy Band, Shotgun Jazz Band Zony
30/30 Restaurant & Bar, BK Historic House & Gardens, Blue Nile, Bombay Club, Buffa’s, Bywater Bakery, Bywater Brew Pub, Café Istanbul, Candlelight Lounge, Civic Theatre, Columns Hotel, d.b.a, Dos Jefes, Double Dealer, Dragon’s Den, GASA GASA, Hi-Ho Lounge, House of Blues, Howlin Wolf, Joy Theater, Kermit’s Treme Mother-in-Law Lounge, Le Bons Temps Roule, Maple Leaf, Music Box Village, New Orleans Jazz Market, New Orleans Jazz Museum, NOLA Brewing, Oak Wine Bar, One Eyed Jacks, Orpheum Theater, Poor Boys, Preservation Hall, Rock’n’Bowl®, Royal Frenchmen Hotel and Bar, Santos Bar, Siberia, Sidney’s Saloon, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, Spotted Cat Music Club, The Broadside, The Chloe, The Fillmore New Orleans, The Maison, The Saint, The Treme Hideaway, Three Keys, Tipitina’s, Toulouse Theatre, Virgin Hotel, Zony Mash Beer Project *As of September 8
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2
Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio Windsor Court Hotel Songbird Fridays
D.B.A.
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Dos Jefes Tangiers Combo
Emo Nite New Orleans Vacation Knocked Loose Fillmore Burden of the Sky, Sevendust
Bamboula’s Les Getrex
Cafe Negril Mojo Hands, Vegas Cola
New Orleans Jazz Museum Oscar Rossignoli
Gasa Gasa Adam Hood Hotel Monteleone Lena Prima
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
House of Blues The Lady Secrets Tour
DMACS Bar & Grill Paggy Prine, Pizza Fam Jam Band
Music Box Village Andy Page
Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band
Capulet Bruno Elisabetsky Trio
21st Amendment Dominick Grillo
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band
The Jazz Playhouse Brass-A-Holics
Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins, Trumpet Slim
Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio
AllWays Lounge Musician Jam
Bacchanal Wine Carl James Keith, Tangiers Combo
Blue Nile Where Y’at Brass Band
New Orleans Jazz Market Sweet Crude Orleans Jazz Museum Piano Hour featuring Jonathan Hines
Bullet’s Sports Bar Kermit Ruffins
House of Blues, Dharius, Dick Deluxe Revue Kitchen Table Cafe Dr. Mark St Cyr Trad Jazz Band
48 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Crescent Park Marion Meadows, Cyril Neville D.B.A. Palmetto Bug Stompers
Santos Bar Narcotic Wasteland
Sweet Lorraine’s Chucky C & Friends
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet
Treme Hideaway Brass Band Thursdays
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub John Saavedra Band, Richard “Piano” Scott
MUSIC
Blue Nile George Brown Band, The Soul Rebels
Bourbon O Bar The Leroy Marshall Show, The Music Man
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
CALENDAR Music & Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda OCTOBER 7 – 16, 2022 Jefferson Performing Arts Center More information and tickets at www.JPAS.org(504)885-2000 “In the Heights has plenty of good old-fashioned Broadway heart, and its heart has a thrilling new beat.” –BroadwayWorld.com This revolutionary and celebratory new musical combines Latin rhythms and dance with hip-hop lyrics to tell a captivating story about what it means to chase your dreams as you cling to your roots.
Oak Wine Bar Tom Leggett
The AllWays Lounge and Theatre Swing Night
Bourrée Marie & Bayou Juju
COASTGULFPRESENTSAEG/PRODUCTIONSCIRCLEWINTER/THEATERJOYCOURTESY
Lil Red
The Howlin Wolf LVVRS & Zita
Sidney’s Saloon Great Twenty-Eights
The
Pour House Ron & Tina’s Open Mic Night Preservation Hall Wendell Brunious Republic NOLA Matoma
Gasa Gasa William Fitzsimmons, Stuart Smith
Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin
Cafe Negril Gumbo Funk, Piano Man ‘G’, Sierra Green
The Broadside James Evans, James Singleton
Cafe Negril Higher Heights, Paradise Jazz Band
Orpheum Theater Andrew Bird, Iron & Wine
Dos Jefes Afrodiziac’s Jazz
Saenger Theatre Chris Rock
House of Blues Here Come the Mummies
NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler
One Eyed Jacks Will Vance, Marc Stone
Gasa Gasa Paris Avenue, Superbloom Music Box Village Brass Brunch
Bistro Orleans Santi “Harmonica” Garcia
Comedy House New Orleans Chrissie Mayr Crescent Park Cyril Neville, Russell Batiste, Jr. DMACS Pocket Chocolate
MRB Clint Johnson
The Howlin Wolf Hotel Burgundy Tipitina’s KMFDM
Fillmore The Cult
Well The Stooges Brass Band Wetlands Sake Live Music Series
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio
DMACS Bloomies, Street Lyfe Brass Band
Saturn Bar Porchlord & Kal Marks
The Broadside Lilli Lewis Project
BONOBO AT THE JOY THEATER
BMC Balcony Music Club
Peacock Room Fontenot Da Lovebirds: Robin Barnes & Pat Casey
Orpheum Theater Co & Co Travelin Road Show
Santos Bar Maestro Maya, Secret Cowboy
DMACS Justin Wall
One Eyed Jacks Tav Falco
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Fritzel’s All Star Band, Pub Richard “Piano” Scott
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1
Simon Green, known as Bonobo, brings his jazz and hip hop influences with his Fragments Live tour to the Big Easy. Monday, October 3, 8 p.m., $30 to $40; the joytheater.com
Cafe Negril The Sierra Green Show, The Villains
Carrollton Station Anna Moss Tomar and the FCs
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
New
The Ace Hotel Nabil Ayers
Saenger Theatre Chris Rock
WhereYat.com | October 2022 49 BREWED FRESH IN NEW ORLEANS, LA W h ea t b e e r b r e w e d w it h t ang er i n e 5 . 5 % A B V R e l e a s ed: Ma y S e p t embe r Thank you New Orleans for voting us “Best Place to Drink Brewed Beer 2022”
Lakefront Arena Kevin Gates
New Orleans Jazz Museum Donald Harrison
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Longue Vue House Eight Dice Cloth, Herlin Riley
Civic Theatre Nels Cline, Wilco DMACS Ocie Crowe
DMACS Monday Blues Jam Gasa Gasa Shiner Joy Theater Bonobo
Cafe Negril Blues-N-SuchSuper-Most-Fantastic-Jam
MUSIC CALENDAR
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6
SABERQUIERO/PITBULLMUSIC.COMCOURTESY
DMACS Sean Hobbes
Cafe Negril Cristina Kaminis
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
Westside Bowling Lanes Will Wesley
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Deutsches Haus Damenchor Ladies Choir, Saengerchor Men’s Choir
D.B.A. Little Freddie King
The National WWII Museum Victory Swing Orchestra
Gasa Gasa Greazy Alice, Redondo Beat
NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler
New Orleans Jazz Museum Ella Project Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
Cafe Negril Sierra Green, The Villains
Blue Nile George Brown Band
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Civic Theatre Nels Cline, Wilco Gasa Gasa Weakened Friends, Slothrust House of Blues The Collection, Sammy Rae
One Eyed Jacks Dylan LeBlanc Republic NOLA Clinton Kane
Joy Theater Goose
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band Tipitina’s Get Her Mojo Working
Tipitina’s Maggie Koerner
The King of Miami will be giving a high energy performance in New Orleans with special guest Iggy Azalea that you won’t want to miss.
The Broadside Purple Reign, Wazozo
Fillmore Corey Holcomb
Oak Wine Bar Caleb Tokarska
Cafe Negril Piano Man ‘G’, Sierra Green
Republic NOLA Champagne Drip
For up-to-date listings visit WhereYat.com
PITBULL AT THE SMOOTHIE KING CENTER
Saturn Bar Silver Syntheti Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band
DMACS Sierra Green, Vance Orange
Maple Leaf Bar Marc Stone
BroadsideThe NoisYourBraun,MikaylaLoveOwn
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8
Mid-City Lanes Rock ‘n’ Bowl Zydeco Bad Boys
Cafe Negril Higher Heights, Paradise Jazz Band Capulet My Mind
House of Blues Jake Landry, Truth & Salvage Co. Joy Theater Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, Fast Pass
Kerry Irish Pub Hugh Morrison
AllWays Lounge Local Queer Music, Sw33theartbreak
MONDAY, OCTOBER 3
NOPSI Hotel aPeal Music
One Eyed Jacks Night of 1,000 Stevies
The Howlin Wolf Greg Fitzsimmons Toulouse Theatre Rag’N’Bone Man, Spoon
D.B.A. Honey Island Swamp Band
Saturn Bar Guts Club & Divide, Dissolve
Bourbon O Bar Jon Sheckler
Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band, Shake’em Up Jazz Band
50 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
DMACS Pizza Fam Jam Band, ROULE Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Gasa Gasa Richard Rourke, Voodoo Collective House of Blues Zoso Joy Theater Goose
Cafe Negril The Budz, Colin Davis
Spotted Cat Chris Christy, Shotgun Jazz Band
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7
One Eyed Jacks Where Nothing Burns
Thursday, October 6, 8 p.m., $16 to $496; smoothiekingcenter.com
New Orleans Jazz Museum CJ Chenier, Trece del Sur
One Eyed Jacks Titus Andronicus Smoothie King Center Pitbull Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band
Wartime Piano Happy Hour Toulouse Theatre Spoon
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4
Caesars Superdome Brooklyn Harris
WolfHowlinTheRocky Dale Davis MuseumWWIINationalThe
WhereYat.com | October 2022 51 FrenchMktNOLAFrench Market New Orleans LEARN MORE @ FRENCHMARKET.ORG SIX HISTORIC BLOCKS OPEN DAILY! Visit our boutique shops and farmers & flea markets for clothing, jewelry, confections, arts and crafts, home decor, children’s toys, unique gifts, souvenirs, and more! TRICK-OR-TREATING • ARTS & CRAFTS • PETTING ZOO HALLOWEEN HAUNTBOO CARRÉ SATURDAY, 11 AM–4 PM | DUTCH ALLEY, FRENCH MARKET DISTRICTOCT15 SPOOKY SECOND LINE & COSTUME PARADE • LIVE MUSIC
neworleans.com/nolaxnola
NOLAXNOLA
NOLAxNOLA seeks to showcase great bands and create a space for the artistic community. Get a chance to witness and experience the music for yourself.
The New Orleans Burlesque Festival is an international festival over three nights, where the Queen of Burlesque will be crowned. Beautiful performers put on sultry shows along with comics and other variety acts.
RIVERSIDE TICKETS ON SALE NOW! nobadance.com “A voice of resistance” (National Geographic), bringing light and joy in the darkness. KYIVBALLETCITY SAT | OCT 22 | 7:30PM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATER U.S. PREMIERE TOUR! HARTZOGTHOMASJANSHARON/BOGALUSABLUES.COMPHOTOGRAPHY;MILLERDARRELL/BURLESQUEORLEANSNEWTOP:FROM
NOLAxNOLA celebrates the talent of the most distinguished musicians in the city.
September 22-25
September 23-October 9
52 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
com/festivalneworleansburlesque.
The annual Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival is back to celebrate the history and heritage of blues. Come out for good music and good times. The festival will have musical acts like Ruthie Foster, Kenny Neal, The Chitlins, and so much more.
NEW FESTIVALBURLESQUEORLEANS
BOGALUSA BLUES September 23-24 bogalusablues.com
ART FOR ART’S SAKE
October 1, magazinestreet.com/event/art-for-arts-sake Summer is coming to an end, but so begins the neighborhood block parties all around New Orleans. Art for Art’s Sake happens on Magazine Street, is a day-long market showcasing local and small businesses. Come cure your shopping addiction while browsing the hundreds of sellers attending the festival.
Gretna Fest is back this season! For over 30 years, Gretna Fest has been a staple that both tourists and locals alike look forward to all year. With nearly 50 vendors, musical performances, and other cultural events, Gretna Fest celebrates the history of the local community. Single-day tickets are $20 and weekend passes are $45.
Craving some mouthwatering crispy chicken? Your prayers have been answered with the return of the National Fried Chicken Festival. The festival will have over 30 chefs cooking up a storm of crunchy goodness, and there will be music and a local merchants’ market too.
FACEBOOKFESTGRETNAHILL;SABREECOURTESYFACEBOOK;FESTIVALCHICKENFRIEDNATIONALLEFT:FROM
CHICKENNATIONALLAKESIDE2RIVERSIDEFRIEDFESTIVAL
WhereYat.com | October 2022 53
October 1-2, friedchickenfestival.com
October 7-9, gretnafest.com
GRETNA FEST
FACEBOOKFESTIVALCHICKENFRIEDNATIONALNOLA;HAUSDEUTSCHESFACEBOOK;FESTGRETNAALLEN;ERIC/FESTTOP:MEMPHOFROMCLOCKWISE
Experience Memphis’ culinary scene with the festival’s many different food and drink vendors.
Walk through Tennessee’s beautiful Memphis Botanic Gardens or jam out to live music performances from big name acts including the Black Keys; Portugal, The Man; and NOLA’s own Tank and the Bangas.
Oct. 7-8 | Historic Old Gretna gretnafest.com
Oct. 1-2 | New Orleans Lakefront friedchickenfestival.com
This event is tailor made for lovers of great tasting fried chicken. In addition to eating, cruise around the festival’s merchant marketplace, witness the first annual custom car showcase, and consider divulging in either the Royalty VIP Lounge or the Chicken & Champagne VIP Lounge for additional perks.
Oct. 7-8 | Village of Baytowne Wharf baytownebeerfestival.com
OKTOBERFEST NEW ORLEANS
FESTIVAL
Oct. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 | Deutsches Haus oktoberfestnola.com
Sept. 28-Oct. 2 | Tangipahoa Parish Fairgrounds facebook.com/TangiFair
FESTIVAL
BAYTOWNE BEER FEST
Gretna’s favorite music and food festival will finally return to the city after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19. The weekend celebration will feature music from famous acts such as John Fogerty and the Beach Boys, as well as areas that offer all kinds of food and crafts.
GRETNA FEST
PARISHTANGIPAHOAFAIR
MEMPHO MUSIC
Head to Amite City to enjoy live music, carnival rides, and so much more. Explore the festival’s full-scale model of a pioneer town, check out textile displays of handmade items like woodworking and jewelry, or see a variety of 4H animals at the fair’s annual livestock show.
Sept. 30-Oct. 2 | Radians Amphitheater memphofest.com
ST. BERNARD REDFISH
Dust off your lederhosen and practice your chicken dance moves for NOLA’s Oktoberfest at the Deutches Haus. Take
FALL FESTIVAL GUIDE
54 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
The Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, Florida, will be drowning in fun and rivers of beer. Not only will attendees have the opportunity to try over 200 domestic and international beers, they will also experience local food from the Village and learn about the different types of beers.
What better place to celebrate all things redfish than at “the redfish capital of the world?” In addition to live music, food, amusement rides, the festival will also be hosting an adult fishing tournament, as well as a children’s fishing event that will raise funds for charity.
NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN FESTIVAL
Oct. 6-9 | Los Isleños Complex redfishfestival.com
WhereYat.com | October 2022 55 OCT 14-16 Food • Rides • Live BridgeCityGumboFestival.orgMusic GUMBO FEST
part in a celebration of all things German with traditional food such as brats and sauerkraut, multiple different German beers and schnapps, and a souvenir shop of many German goods.
Oct. 8 | Bogue Falaya Wayside Park thebluesberryfest.com
Oct. 8-9 | Pontchartrain Park, gentillyfestival.com
56 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Head out to Covington for non-stop, family-friendly fun on the bank of the Bogue Falaya River. Not only can attendees enjoy the festival’s “food truck alley” or the “beer and wine experience,” they can also jam out to musical acts including Samantha Fish, Jay Megginson, and Band of Heathens.
GENTILLY FESTIVAL
BLUESBERRY FESTIVAL
The Gentilly Festival not only celebrates and promotes all things Gentilly, it also helps to raise funds for local first responders. The event will provide plenty of entertainment at the festival’s main stage, the St. Thomas tent, as well as the kids village.
Oct. 8-9 | Bouligny Plaza, iberiachamber.org/gumbocookoff
FALL FESTIVAL GUIDE
Gumbo lovers will be in heaven at this year’s Championship Gumbo Cookoff in Downtown New Iberia. Over 100 teams will be competing to see who can cook the best gumbo in multiple different categories including amateur chicken and sausage, amateur, mélange, and professional seafood.
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP GUMBO COOKOFF
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• Variety is key. You should incorporate a hard cheese, a soft cheese, and a wild card. Also including different milk types can really add another dimension.
• While a minimalist board can be done, it is more difficult, and overall more is more. Don’t be afraid to bump it up.
• While prosciutto is the most popular meat to include, other great options include bresaola, duck, and paté
Consumers’ growing interest in craft foods has transformed how we view the ingredients we consume. Pair this with the do-it-yourself nature of creating charcuterie boards and the ability to add your own unique flair, and we do not see them going anywhere. With this in mind, it’s time to know more about creating them yourself. The concern should be focused on quality ingredients and authenticity when it comes to charcuterie boards. This focus will lead to a unique fusion of textures and flavors.
October 19 SPOOKY CHEESE NIGHT: Fun seasonal cheeses for Halloween.
October 5 TAPAS NIGHT. Celebrating Spanish cheeses with a tapas demonstration class, sponsored by food and wines from Spain.
October 26 NIGHTMARE CHEESES: Fools rush in where mongers fear to tread.
While their classes are not to be missed, St. James Cheese Company provided us with some insider information on creating charcuterie boards via the Director of Cheese Education, Molly Bourg. Despite Molly’s title, they acknowledged that it can seem intimidating at first to make them but emphasized it doesn't need to be. Some great tips they shared include the following:
BOARDCHARCUTERIEDREAMS
Bayou Wine Garden: Served with baguette, chutney, roasted pecans, mustards, and house pickles this is enough to draw you in, but the option to customize your numbers of meats and cheeses seals the deal.
Charcuterie and cheese boards are no longer an unattainable social media trend. Read on for tips to help when ordering them as well as creating your own. Bon appétit! Now A Reality
When it comes to the in-town experts on pulling together charcuterie boards, we turned to St. James Cheese Company, whose mission since 2006 has been to pioneer bringing artisanal and farmhouse cheeses to the area. They now have two locations, one Uptown and one in the Warehouse District, that feature an exceptional array of high-quality products. While they have a dining experience that provides salads and sandwiches, offerings also include creating your own charcuterie boards. At the Uptown location, they host classes to learn how to create your own boards and have an exciting lineup for the month of October. Cheese classes include:
• Themes to your board can be great, and you can incorporate it into your evening (for instance, if you are going for a movie night with a British film and want to do a cheddar, brie, and blue)
• Accompaniments are great and add elements like a good crunch. Great examples are fresh and dried fruit, relish, jams, honey, and even things you wouldn’t expect such as caramel popcorn
goes together. They also offered three ideas of compliment, contrast, or medium. While the first two are self explanatory, the medium strategy is meant for items to not overshadow one another. To help you experiment with these new found tips, in the month of October, St. James Cheese Company will feature some unique offerings, including projects in collaboration with local breweries. One of these is Tulip Tree, washed with schwarzbier from Miel Brewing, and a triple cream washed rind—stinky and strong.
The Vintage: Just one of the many delectable bites they have to offer, but it's an impressive board at a reasonable price with three cheeses, meats, and accouterments, with both crackers and bread.
58 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Vessel NOLA: Their board features a seasonal rotation of cheeses and jams, with candied pecans, fresh berries, and focaccia crostini to keep things interesting.
A final fun misnomer Molly shared with us from the industry is that charcuterie does not actually mean the inclusion of cheese. The French origins of charcuterie translate to cooked (cuit) flesh (chair) According to corkdining.com, charcuterie became more popularized in the 15th century France which described shops selling meat products so the offal parts of the pig did not go to waste. Despite how far this concept has come, the roots of this can still apply, and really, it is about your creating a personal mix. For more information on how St. James Cheese Company can help you choose what should
The explosion in popularity of charcuterie boards seems to have come out of thin air. The concept even seems too simplistic to be taken seriously. Some have passed it off as an Instagram trend that is sure to lie in the past fads graveyard. In contrast, charcuterie and cheese boards have staked their claim in the artisanal food movement.
Molly also shared some helpful pairing strategies. The concept of terroir, which is often associated with wine, also applies to cheese. It means what grows together,
By Frances Deese
October 12 PROST. Celebrating Oktoberfest with German cheeses and beer, featuring special guests from Columbia cheese and kaeskuche.
land on your board visit stjamescheese.com. Living up to its status as a foodie city, there are plenty of other great restaurants to grab charcuterie boards.
Toup’s Meatery: While they feature a board with three cheeses, fruits, and nuts, they also serve “the Meatery Board,'' which includes house-made fresh and cured meats with condiments. There’s nothing wrong with ordering both to indulge yourself.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 59 DOWN THE HATCH BAR AND1921GRILLSOPHIE WRIGHT PL. DOG FRIENDLY PATIO SEATING (504) 522-0909 • @down_the_hatch_nolaDownTheHatchNola.comFollowus @dthnola$5PB&JFORSERVICEINDUSTRYAFTER12AM! Open for All Service Industry with Late Night Happy Hour! 1001 Esplanade • www.buffasbar.com • Dine In or Take Out EST.1939 “This is the place you'll come back to when nothing else seems to fit your mood.” — Trip Advisor The Best Place You’ve Never Been! Live, Local Music Thurs - Mon See our web site for details and links for tickets. Still Best Reuben in New Orleans! Bleu Cheese Coleslaw is back! New Crawfish Fiesta Pasta!
Thesnackingbestway to prevent mindless snacking is to check in with yourself before you eat the snack. Rossy explained that with more mindfulness, you will be conscious of what you are doing and eating. “So, when you reach for food, you will have the state of mind to stop and assess whether food is really what you want or whether you are just engaging in a habit,” said Rossy. “With practice, you will become more conscious in your choices.” Over time, you will become more aware of your body’s needs and be able to establish mindful snacking habits.
Analyze and ask questions: Take a moment before you begin to eat your snack and figure out what thoughts or emotions prompted you to snack.
60 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
3.) Another question to ask yourself is where does this mindless snacking occur—perhaps at your desk or on your couch?
You may eat while you are on the phone or watching television. When you are eating and doing something else, you may tend to overeat, or not chew your food completely. Kimball noted the best strategy to counter overeating was to set parameters for your snacks. “Take a bag of chips and don’t eat out of the bag,” Kimball advised. “Put a handful on a napkin and then put away the bag. Give yourself permission to have this treat. You can set yourself up for success by managing the amount of your snack.”
This is a perfect practice to start eating mindfully. While snacking, always ask yourself why you need this snack? Are you actually hungry? Do you need an energy kick or are you simply eating because you are bored? These questions invite you to recognize the difference between mindful and mindless snacking. Mindful snacking is eating with attention and intention.
2.) Identify the time of day that you tend to succumb to snacking mindlessly.
that the average adult makes an eyepopping 35,000 decisions per day and roughly 200 decisions about food per day. Chances are, you probably will only recall a fraction of them, particularly when it comes to your food intake.
By Celeste Turner
“You’re less likely to over-consume when you eat one or all of the following components: protein, fiber and plantbased fats,” said Kimball. “If your snack is carb-based, put a protein, fiber, and some fat to round it out to be physically and emotionally satisfying.” For example, if you’re eating crackers for a snack, Kimball recommended pairing it with nut butter, guacamole, or hummus for a good healthy option.Mindless snacking does not involve a plate, stressed Kimball. “Identifying the snack and giving it the title of a snack is important. When you’re eating, it should be a conscious act—something you enjoy and get pleasure from.”
thinking about something else. Snacking is prevalent because food is almost always within arm’s reach, and it is very easy to reach for food for comfort, distraction, and to fill up an empty moment.”Rossy, who also teaches a ten-week Eat for Life class, beginning in September, recommended checking in with your belly before you put food in your mouth to determine if you are physically hungry.
“It can be challenging to distinguish between emotions that are experienced in the body and true physical hunger,” said Rossy. “Stress, for instance, is often registered in the belly which is where we first experience physical hunger. Mindfulness is truly one of the most beautiful practices for learning how to accept that all emotions can be welcomed and experienced without needing to do anything to fix
4.) Choose foods that are nourishing and make you feel full longer.
Here are simple ways to curb the mindless snacking:
Oftentimes, Kimball affirmed that mindless snacking is defined as emotionally-driven; however, it can also be connected to a sense of guilt and regret. For example, Kimball said that a person may be watching TV while eating chips out of a bag, and, before you know it, half the bag is gone. “If someone sets an intention for the day, and at the end of the day in hindsight, they are disappointed and feeling guilty. This is your first clue of mindlessAlthoughsnacking.”eating in between meals may seem like an indulgence, healthy snacks can also be an important part of your diet. They can increase your energy during the day, prevent overeating and help you maintain your weight. Kimball advised that snacking can be a good idea, but you may want to figure out why you are snacking. So, how do you crack your snack habit?
● Drink plenty of water between meals
Because you may be working, driving, reading, watching television, or scrolling through your Smartphone, you may not be fully aware of what you’re eating. This lack of awareness of your food consumption may lead to mindless snacking.“Mindless snacking,” said Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD, local registered dietician with Ochsner Health and Founder of Ochsner Eat Fit, “is eating while serving another purpose or while doing another activity. It tends to be drivenandcarbohydratea
● Snack on smaller portions by buying individual-sized packaged foods
them, like eating.”
● Keep the tempting foods out of your reach and healthy food choices within reach
● Unplug yourself from all devices when
STOCKADOBE
“It is important to identify the witching hours, when this period of snacking occurs,” Kimball emphasized. “Sometimes, people tend to snack unconsciously at night, or when they get home from work to turn down the noise from the day. It is less likely to happen at 7:00 a.m. because people tend to be busy in the morning. It is usually in the second half of the day when you are reacting to the stressors of the day.”
Kimball suggested 4 Strategies to combat mindless snacking:
● Slow down and take your time while eating
● Eliminate convenience and choose snacks that require preparation, a plate, or a bowl.
SNACKMINDLESSAVOIDINGTHEATTACK
WhereYat.com | October 2022 61 MAKE RESERVATIONS TO JOIN US AFTER THE GAME! 1200 Poydras St. Suite 103 | 504- 577-2937 | stumpyshh.com/neworleansla GET OUT OF THE SUN & INTO THROWINGTHEPITS!
Along with ginger-hued leaves, bright red apples and football, pumpkins are one of the most prominent autumn archetypes. After all, what would fall be for us without pumpkin pie, spookily-carved jack-o-lanterns, or pumpkin spice lattes? It would be a sad season, indeed.
Another spot that loves its annual frolic in the pumpkin patch is the Gert Town-based Gracious Bakery. When the leaves start falling and the holiday season is close at hand, you can bet the farm that owner/pastry chef Megan Forman and her happy krewe will be rolling out delights such as pumpkin danishes sprinkled with pepitas, maple pumpkin knots, pumpkin bread, pumpkin cheesecake, and pumpkin custard deliciously decorated with Valrhona white chocolate-whipped ganache.
DonutsDistrict
wouldn't mind seeing that dish come 'round again—and again.
Finally, almost every pie-purveyor in town will be offering the ubiquitous Thanksgiving treat, the one offered at Windowsill Pies is more than worth writing about. If you've never had the pleasure, it's past time to make your way to Freret Street for their ginger pumpkin tart with crispy pepitas. As a whole, the Food & Wine Magazine-featured pie runs a higher than the budgeted $20, but lucky for us, they offer a 2-inch mini that fits the bill.
By Kim Ranjbar
Breads on Oak
Case in point, the pumpkin cheddar biscuits at Breads on Oak. With a second location downtown on Carondolet, the rising bakery is proof positive vegan food can be both delectable and wholesome. One of its most popular sellers, the flaky, pumpkin cheddar biscuit, made with organic pumpkin and vegan cheddar, is made even more desirable as a breakfast sandwich stuffed with a sprouted tofu scramble, “andouille sausage,” and fresh tomato. This time of year, they've also been known to offer a pumpkin spice brioche eclair with a maple glaze and candied pepitas.
While it's hard to predict what savory dish New Orleans chefs will create from year to year, or even day to day (like the brief appearance of smoked lamb ribs over pumpkin congee at Marjie's Grill), there always seems to be more annual continuity on the sweeter side of things. For example, pumpkin praline ice cream makes a regular showing at Creole Creamery, and with four locations (one in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi), it's hard to miss. If you pair it with a scoop of Creole cream cheese and brown butter pecan, it becomes a fall-icious split.
MoPho
BarrelItalianThe
$20 AND UNDER
Orange You Glad It's Fall?
(or New Orleans's Pumpkin Power, NOLA Pumpkin Picks, The Great American Gourd)
Gracious Bakery Windowsill Pies
DONUTSDISTRICTBARRELL;ITALIANBAKERY;CRACIOUSCREAMERY;CREOLEPIES;WINDOWSILLOAK;ONREADSRANJBAR;KIMRIGHT:TOPFROMCLOCKWISE
As we anxiously await the opening of his latest restaurant Tana Italian eatery slated to launch in Old Metairie early 2023), Chef Michael Gulotta has been known to pop pumpkin into the menu at his other two spots. In fact, an Indonesian pumpkin curry with spicy apple sambal, sweet soy and crunchy pepitas has made an appearance from time to time at both MoPho Mid-City Maypop . We understand keeping the menu fresh, but there are many who
CreameryCreole
Native to North America, pumpkins are a winter squash and in the United States, over 1.5 billion pounds are produced annually. An excellent source of betacarotene and vitamin A, pumpkins can be both a healthful and flavorful feast and you can eat almost all of it, from the fleshy shell and seeds to the bright orange flowers and even the leaves. Though the mirliton is the most preferred squash to devour during the fall months in New Orleans, pumpkin is still very much in the running, so much so that there's regulars available to gourd-mandize season after season.
You can always count on District Donuts Sliders Brew to jump on the yearly pumpkin procession, with alacrity. Since it opened on Magazine Street almost a decade ago, this specialty coffee shop has featured golden gourdinspired donuts like pumpkin cheesecake with candied pepitas and ginger beer glaze, pumpkin spice latte crème brulee, “The Great Pumpkin” with pumpkin pie filling and brown butter glaze, and pumpkin pecan rolls—not to mention a caramel pumpkin spice latte with pumpkin spice marshmallows because why not guild the gourd?
62 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Quite often, the simplest dish is best as French Quarter restaurant The Italian Barrel has shown with one of their most popular plates, re-gourd-less of the season. It will only set you back $18 for chef/owner Samantha Castagnetti's toothsome pumpkin-stuffed raviolo sauteed in brown butter and sage. Can you smell this dish in your mind's eye? Can you taste it? Stop fantasizing and go.
Founded in 2012, City Greens delivers gourmet soups, salads, wraps, and pressed juice - perfect for the travelers who want to eat healthy on the go.
Outside Concourse B & Near Gate C2
Outside Concourse B
Airport Re s t a u r a n t Guide
Lucky Dogs
Panda Express prepares American Chinese food fresh from the wok. From the signature orange chicken to the health-conscious Wok Smart selections, Panda Express defines American Chinese cuisine with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 63
City Greens
Shake Shack
Visit flymsy.com for a full directory. #IndulgeMSY
Panda Express
Chili's is well known for Tex-Mex pub fare, and as a place to hang out and enjoy a burger and a beer.
Outside Concourse B
The French Quarter's own fabled Lucky Dogs hot dog cart is must-do part of experiencing New Orleans through tradition and taste.
Folse Market
Outside Concourse C
LOCAL
Vino Volo
Shake Shack is a critically acclaimed, modern day "roadside" burger stand known for its 100% all-natural Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches, griddled flat-top dogs (no hormones or antibiotics - ever), fresh-made frozen custard, crispy crinkle-cut fries, and more.
Vino Volo (derived from “wine flight” in Italian) o ers wines from around the world by the glass, in tasting flights, and by the bottle for guests to take home or have shipped and gourmet food plates.
Near Gate C4
Near Gate B8
Near Gate C10
Chili’s
Outside Concourse A
Folse Market is a New Orleans marketplace created with famed Chef John Folse which features stations for seafood, charcuterie, po-boys, co ee and wine.
Midway Pizza
NATIONALFAVORITESRESTAURANTS
Midway Pizza serves handmade deep-dish pizzas, salads and other excellent edibles and also features a full bar.
“It was all I hoped it would be” … Larry Morrow and his mother, Chef Lenora Chong, the dream team behind Morrow's in the Marigny, have recently launched Monday in MidCity. Located in the space that formerly housed Trep’s on Bienville Street, Monday offers an
By Kim Ranjbar
4327 Bienville St., mondaynola.com
Shakin' it up … One might say the French Quarter has everything one could want in the “eats” department, but it seems there was a decided lack of “freak shakes.” The Nashvilleborn Legendairy Milkshake Bar recently opened up on Chartres Street to fill that knack. Treat your kids, or the kid in you, to a frosted mason jar filled with candy-coated bliss. Celebrity Chef Jet Tila has professed his love for their “rolling in the cookie dough,” featuring chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, chocolate chips, whipped cream, cookie dough bites, and a chocolate chip cookie. Our money is on the “coffee & doughnuts” with crushed Oreos and a whole glazed doughnut, or “the king shake” with banana pudding ice cream, chocolate and peanut butter sauce, bacon, crushed peanuts, and a whole banana. Check them out on Chartres Street.
… Skilled chefs Cara and Evan Benson have done it again, this time on the Westbank. Their incredibly popular breakfast spot Toast now has a location in Gretna in the old Screamin' Eagle Lounge on Hancock Street. Renovated, renewed and all dressed up in a pretty sky-blue, Toast Gretna is offering all of the deliciousness we've grown to know and love, from sweet and savory crepes to steak 'n' eggs and ratatouille. Follow them on Instagram @toastgretna 1711 Hancock St., Gretna, toastneworleans.com
64 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Overlegendairymilkshakebar.com(theriver)easy
HallMorrowonMag
WITOWSKISAMANTHAPHOTOS:ALL
NEWS
Legendairy Milkshake Bar
FOOD
eclectic menu with dishes ranging from seafood gumbo and boudin egg rolls to bánh mì, lamb chops, and blackened redfish tacos. Monday is open every day but Tuesday.
Hall to hall . . . Sure, we were bummed when they closed Auction House Market, but it seems there was no need to fret. Yet another food hall is opening up in the beautiful Warehouse District space on Magazine Street called, appropriately, the Hall on Mag. Entrepreneur Jamal Wilson, pleased with the success of the first Hall in Tampa, jumped to our culinary mecca with alacrity to launch his new dining concept. The Hall on Mag is touting a launch lineup of options from South and Common (Southern-style comfort food) to El Greco, a Mediterranean seafood spot, but what's more interesting is the Hall's dining approach—though there will be over half a dozen
1200 W. Causeway Approach, Mandeville, eatfatboyspizza.com
It keeps getting bigger Fat Boy Pizza, the home of the world's biggest slice, just opened its sixth location in Mandeville. “Our brand is a fun, familyoriented one,” Vice President of Brand Development Chad Collura said. “There is nothing else like it anywhere." So if you're over on the Northshore craving a 30-inch pie, you now have a place to go. Bring the whole family, why don't ya?
925 Behrman Hwy., Gretna, @ktownbbq_tofu
Thai me down … At the tail end of June, the Gentilly neighborhood gleefully gained a new restaurant dubbed Thai'd Up NOLA. Located on Gentilly Boulevard in the space that formerly held Catty Shack Tex-Mex, Thai'd Up is the brainchild of local Ryan Walsh and his girlfriend Kate Welch, who were looking to add something new to the neighborhood food scene. Featuring Thai “street food,” the new restaurant offers dishes such as roti, crab rangoons, curries, stir fry, noodles, and fried rice.
1839 Gentilly Blvd., thaidupla.com
Coffee in the garden … A brand new café recently threw open its doors just down the block from Commander's Palace in the Garden District. Located on the corner of Washington and Prytania inside the Rink, the Chicory House offers specialty coffee drinks, pastries, granola bowls, salads, and full-fledged sandwiches made with their own bread. Everything seems too tasty to be true, from the Uncle Booga—their answer to a French Dip with coffee-rubbed roast beef and Challerhocker cheese—to the “go go,” a white bean sandwich with fresh greens and tomatoes drizzled with olive oil.
801 Magazine St., explorethehall.com
WhereYat.com | October 2022 65
Right across from Washington Square, the modern, peach-hued bakery offers croissants, cinnamon rolls, babka “knots,” sweet red bean rolls, mushroom and Gruyere biscuits, French baguettes, sourdough loaves, and more. Sandwich specials are available daily and the coffee is locally sourced from Hey! Cafe. 801 Frenchmen St., ayubakehouse.com
119 TRANSCONTINENTAL DR. METAIRIE • 885-4572 Now Hiring! BUY 1, GET 1 25% OFF of equal or lesser value, one coupon per customer per day not valid with other offers, po-boys and gumbo only. Expires October 31, 2022 Download the New Short Stop Po-Boys iPhone App Today for FREE and receive VIP Discounts, Specials, & more! • Oyster • Crawfish • Shrimp • Catfish TRY OUR PO-BOYS!SEAFOOD Finger Sandwiches & Gumbo for Tailgating! Now56CelebratingYears! Open Monday to Thursday 10:30am to 6:30pm, Fri 10:30am-8pm, Saturday 10:30am to 7:00pm, Closed Sunday • & More shortstoppoboys.com 5018 Freret St. • mrtequilanola.com@Mr.TequilaNOLA504-766-9660 MR. TEQUILA AUTHENTIC MEXICANCUISINEBAR GRILL NOW OPEN UPTHAI'DWITOWSKI;SAMANTHALEFT:FROM
At long last! … While the GNO burbs were literally bursting with bubble tea shops, New Orleans proper was suffering, until now. Feng Cha, a big bubble tea chain from China, has come to the States and opened a location on Magazine Street in the Lower Garden District. Feng Cha means “to serve tea respectfully” and thanks to them, we can respectfully enjoy all of their brilliant bubbly flavors, from bursting dragonfruit, and coffee milk tea (yes, together), to overflowing grapefruit and matcha lattes.
2727 Prytania St., @the.chicoryhouse
vendors, the new eating arena will feature both hosts and servers to up the food-halldining-experience ante. The Hall on Mag is slated to open this fall.
Thai'd Up
2131 Magazine St., @fengchanola
It's French, right? … There's a new spot on Frenchmen Street, and it's not a music venue. Well, unless baked goods bring music to your ears. Ayu Bakehouse is the latest pastry-laden craze in the Marigny neighborhood and local denizens are eating it up.
Kickin' it K-style … Several empty spaces inside Hong Kong Market were yearning to be filled, and now there's one less absence with the recent opening of K-Town BBQ &
Feng Cha
Tofu. Feast on your Korean food favorites from grilled samgyupsal (grilled pork belly) and bulgogi, to bibimbap and pajeon. K-Town is open every day except Wednesday for lunch and dinner.
After decades of enjoying gin and rum, my Kentucky heritage (on my mom's side of the family) led me on a personal education and exploration of bourbon many years earlier. Not having a taste for Scotch or Irish whiskies, much less any other versions, it came as a surprise to me that the uniquely American-made bourbon appealed to me.
WITKOWSKIROBERTPHOTOS:ALL
BOURBON BOUND
MAKER'S MARK AMBASSADOR
It started subtly with mint juleps as we celebrated Kentucky Derby parties in earlier years. Then bourbon and branch water. Next, it was bourbon and ginger ale, upgrading to ginger beer (aka Kentucky Mule). When visiting family and friends, I was goaded (double-dog dared?) into bourbon neat, and once I mastered the art of navigating the "Kentucky Hug" (Hint: exhale through your mouth after you swallow), I realized there was an undiscovered fondness that needed to be nurtured.
By ROBERT WITKOWSKI
In researching bourbons' taste profiles and a lot of other aspects I knew nothing about, I stumbled across the Maker's Mark® Ambassador program offered by the distillery. Signing up was—and still is—free. Cautiously skeptical, after I joined, I happily discovered that unlike similar programs, no financial obligations, obvious or hidden, existed. Quite the opposite.
Following the rail fences along the rolling hills of Loretto, Kentucky, I entered Star Hill Farm's open wrought iron gates, welcomed by Maker's Mark distillery as an honored dignitary. But more importantly, I went to retrieve bottles of caskstrength bourbon from my personal barrel—a seven-year endeavor, coming to fruition.
Mash bill stage in creating bourbon at Maker'sdistilleryMark
A New Orleans Bourbon Ambassador Hits the Bourbon Trail
MAKING A MARK
66 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
WhereYat.com | October 2022 67 EatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sEatprayloveNewOrleans EatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleans EatEatEatEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveEatprayloveatMelba'sEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleansprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsEatprayloveNewOrleans EatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleans EatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsEatprayloveEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleans EatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleans EatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleans EatprayloveatMelba'sEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveNewOrleansEatprayatMelba'sBeforemealsEatprayloveBeforemealsNewOrleansEatprayloveatMelba'sBeforemealsNewOrleansT hanks For BudgetBestMelbaVoting,sEats & One of The Best Shrimp Po Boys! melbas.com•Open 24I7 267.7765•Download Melba,s App! DaiquiriBestPricesinTown! 401 Andrew Higgins Blvd • 504-569-8459 TheUglyDogSaloon.com HOME OF THE TM EST. 1998 126 S. Roadway St. NOLANOW504-329-1403504-510-2175@jbsfueldockHIRING ALL POSITIONS!
9/28 The Soul Rebels
9/30 Symone French & the Trouille Troupe
9/24 Very Cherry
10/14 Organized Grime
9/22
10/9 Dr. Lo Faber
10/29 Very Cherry
The distillery had created a remarkable marketing program that not only enhanced interest in their company, but built a subliminal level of brand loyalty that even I, as a marketing professional, did not expect to experience. There are other brands of bourbon I appreciate and even prefer, yet after becoming a Maker's Mark® Ambassador, I found myself selecting the wax-topped bottles over competing labels when asked which whiskey I preferred in
10/16 Dr. Lo Faber
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ALL BOURBONS ARE WHISKEY
As learned on the many tours that week, bourbon got its name because of the county from which it originated. Founded in 1785, Bourbon County was then part of a much larger Virginia.
9/26 Michelly Cordova Duo
It would be several more months before the brown liquor arrived at its destination in New York, Boston, or other global port, allowing the whiskey a full two years or
9/23 Russell Batiste & Friends
my cocktails by bartenders. I was, after all, an ambassador and felt the responsibility to represent. Ingenious.
68 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
Ashton Hines & The Big Easy Brawlers
10/2 Dr. Lo Faber
10/21 Russell Batiste & Friends
About halfway through the aging process, I planned a week-long getaway with a friend from New York City—who was new to bourbon and never been to Kentucky—to traverse the Bourbon Trail. The trek was fundamentally mapped out based on visiting Maker's Mark. We were both in awe as we first approached the understated Star Hill Farm tucked in the hills of Maker'sLoretto.Mark distillery, started in 1953 when Bill Samuel, Sr.—a fourth generation distiller—and his wife Margie bought Star Hill Farm as a distillery. It has a Disneylike quality with its pristine grounds and picture-perfect preserved buildings. Unlike a Disney park, however, the distillery, covered bridge, original drive-thru liquor store (horse-drawn buggies, not cars), and countless buildings are all historically authentic and painstakingly maintained. The aptly named Whiskey River—original source of the limestone filtered water distinct to their bourbon—still meanders through the complex.
10/15 Super Soft Birthday Party
LIVE MUSIC
10/20 The Soul Rebels
10/1 Strange Roux
BRAND LOYALTY
10/6 The Soul Rebels
I was excited to finally receive an elegant congratulatory Maker's Mark fold-out containing a golden ticket (Charlie heading to the "Chocolate Factory") notifying me my barrel was finally ready—seven years since joining. While I was not under any obligation to purchase anything, they presented a six-month window of time to schedule visiting the distillery, receive a gift, and be given an exclusive complimentary tour for graduating ambassadors—and purchase bottles from my personally named barrel if I wanted to. Again, no obligation, just information. I wantedReturningto. to Star Hill Farms as a Maker's Mark Ambassador to pick up my personalized bourbon felt triumphant. I was joined by a close friend from Louisville to share this milestone. A lifelong Louisvillian, he had never been to a rural
10/23 Dr. Lo Faber
Port of New Orleans with bourbon barrels, c. 1884 Buildings honor the distillery
10/8 Marina Orchestra
Unlike other whiskies, bourbon is
Almost immediately, Maker's Mark began a welcoming campaign to foster a connection with letters via "snail mail"— small but very cool presents at Christmas, birthday cards, and heads-up emails about special deals and events just for ambassadors. And most notably, the excitement built year after year as Maker's Mark notified me of when the barrel of bourbon in my name was created, and its progress aging over the next 5-7 years. At no point did they require any fees. Brilliant.
distinctive by being mostly made with corn (51% or more), made with limestone filtered water unique to that region of Kentucky, and, by law, aged in charred new oak barrels which gives the clear liquid its amber color.
10/7 Blue Tang People
10/30 Roccadile Does Thriller
The process also requires bourbon to be aged for at least two years—and often four or more. The timeline is derived from the pre-steamship age when barrels of the colorful whiskey were shipped from Bourbon County by sailboat, navigating down the Ohio River until it fed into the Mississippi and found its way to sit at a warehouse for an indefinite amount of time in, you guessed it, steamy New Orleans.
more to age in alternating heat and cold. The shipped barrels were tracked by stamps indicating their port of origin and contents: "Bourbon, Whiskey." When Kentucky became a state a decade later, the limestone- and corn-rich region outside Lexington, and later the state, became synonymous with the spirit.
MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME
IVES&CURRIER/COMMONWIKIMEDIAWITKOWSKI;ROBERTLEFT:FROM
Topping off the bottle
TOPPING OFF THE BOURBON
Star Hill Farm's lush grounds include an on-site bar and café as well as authentic carriages, wagons, water pumps, and a covered bridge. Art celebrating the distillery adorn the property, even inside.
In 2014, the distillery commissioned world renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly to create an original 36-foot by 6-foot glass ceiling installation, The Spirit of the Maker complete with angels getting their share, to mark the distillery's 60th Anniversary. Most notably however, all the Victorian-style, c. 1800 buildings are painted similarly—brown to represent the bourbon color, and—of course representing the trademark red wax— there are silhouettes of Bourbon bottles in the windows' red shutters.
distillery, so he was unexpectedly excited to be there as well. We were greeted at the welcome center with V.I.P. badges and gifts. Soon, the announcement called all graduating ambassadors to meet our guide,LauraLaura.welcomed us with remarkable enthusiasm, surprised to be leading ambassadors like myself from far-and-wide. Others have traveled long distances as well, including Chicago and New York City. We were all there to retrieve our bourbon and share this moment at Maker's Mark.
In the end, it's difficult to not have a level of brand loyalty instilled in this brand that subtly brings Bourbon enthusiasts into the Samuels family fold. And not only does the program give one pause when deciding which bourbon to order, it also sends their ambassadors out wearing and sharing promotional items with the world.
At the conclusion of the tour, each ambassador was given their prearranged allotment of Maker's Mark cask-strength bourbon from their personal barrel already bottled up. The ambassadors had their respective name and ambassador number emblazoned on their labels. Each was then afforded the opportunity to put on aprons, gloves, safety goggles, and arm protection to dip their bottles into hot melted red wax to personally seal their own batch— complete with a three-turn twist to ensure the perfect amount of their signature red wax drips. Finally, a stamp on the hot wax
While the Maker's Mark Ambassador program is effectively free, it does inspire a sense of pride and a sort of guerilla branding that companies simply can't buy, and Maker's Mark pulls it off brilliantly.
printing on a classic letter press, and the trademarked dripping red wax bottles were all implemented by Margie, the first female Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Famer. Other whiskey bottles can have red wax, or even dripping wax, but not both. Since 1985, Marker's Mark is legally the only distillery allowed to have the red, dripping wax seal atop their bottles.
Even the marketing by Margie Samuels was covered. Beginning with the fact that although the spelling of American whiskey includes an "e," Maker's Mark labels spells their product "whisky" as a nod to their family's Scottish-Irish heritage. Aspects such as logo creation, bottle design, label design with her handwritten typeface,
WhereYat.com | October 2022 69 Wednesday–Saturday — 4–10pm Sunday–Noon - 9pm Closed Mon. & Tue. 134 N. Carrollton Ave. @ Canal St. • 488-7991 Celebrating 65 Years!
top, branding it a batch from the barrels with the year it is fully matured.
The aroma of the "angel's share" (sugar vapor that evaporates into the air during the distilling process, ostensibly bourbon for the angels) hits immediately upon entering a rickhouse full of aging barrels, and I'm home.
THE TOUR
But it's Maker's Mark's long-game approach that is most impressive. While some bourbon may be purchased by those reporting back to the home office in Loretto after five-seven years, it is the constant steady flow of graduating ambassadors over years that builds on the brand's mystique and contributes to tourism, bolstering the commonwealth's economy.Coming from a state that brings the New Orleans Bourbon Festival to the world in September, that's worth signing up for.
AMBASSADORSHIP
Rickhouse with Dale Chihuly's glass creation "The Spirit of the Maker"
MARKMAKER'SWITKOWSKI;ROBERTLEFT:FROM
Touring the farm was similar to the standard visit, but Laura ensured there was a V.I.P. level of flexibility, explanation, and timeliness for new visitors, and additional information for return visitors. At the end of the tour, we saw eight of the buildings comprising the whiskey production process, from planning taste profiles through bottling.
Alto (Ace Hotel) 600 Carondelet St. 504-900-1180
Babylon Bar 2917 Harvard 504-324-9961Ave.,
Down the Hatch 1921 Sophie Wright Pl. 504-522-0909
Bar Guide
The Fillmore prides itself in providing legendary experiences to its patrons. Not only is it the perfect setting for live entertainment, the creative food, signature cocktails, and craft beer are all great.
Peacock Room 501 Tchoupitoulas St. 504-324-3073
Royal Frenchmen Hotel
Stumpy’s Hatchet House
Jimani 141 Chartres 504-524-0493St.
The Rabbit Hole 1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. 504-354-9709
Evangeline 329 Decatur 504-373-4852St.
Manning’s 519 Fulton 504-593-8118St.
Martine’s provides a very friendly and comfortable atmosphere in Old Metairie. Not only is there darts and video poker, they serve up great wines, tasty cocktails, and a large selection of beer.
Ugly Dog Saloon
Ugly Dog Saloon is a great place to enjoy a beer and one of the city’s best pulled pork sandwiches. With a full bar and game day platters, it’s the perfect spot to meet up with friends. This place is more than a barbeque joint for sure.
BEST BLOODY MARY MIX-OFF
Kilroy’s at the Higgins 480 Andrew Higgins Blvd., 504-528-1941
Come enjoy their playful cocktails in a snazzy setting. Their menu includes Cajun classics and modern creations.
If you’d like to see the next Saints or LSU game on over 30 flat screens, then you have to go to Manning’s Sports Bar. Get into a local sports mood by ordering the Manning’s Mardi Gras Punch.
Pal’s Lounge is the perfect place to be if you feel like having a drink at “witching hour.” Stay awake with their house cocktails, beers, and many other different kinds of brews.
This eclectic venue has all of the amenities needed for a perfect night out. Listen to brass bands and electronic DJs at The Rabbit Hole's downstairs bar and stage or get some fresh air at their outdoor stage area.
Lots A Luck Tavern was recently voted as the #1 spot for bar games in New Orleans by Where Y’at Magazine ’s readers. Try your hand at mini golf or cornhole or sip a refreshing drink at their outdoor seating area.
Pal’s Lounge 949 N. Rendon St. 504-488-7257
Not only is the live entertainment at House of Blues great, the Southern-inspired food and refreshing drinks are fantastic as well! You can enjoy plenty of different beer and cocktails.
This bar and grill is a special spot in the Garden District for delicious and reasonably priced food and drinks. The Hell’s Kitchen Wings are delicious, as well as the many different starters, sandwiches, and burgers.
401 Andrew Higgins Blvd 504-569-8549
Wrong Iron 3532 Toulouse St., 504-302-1503
Evangeline’s courtyard is perfect for sipping on some of the locally craft beers they offer. The Rum Punch and Strawberry Blonde cocktails are also fruity and delicious. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. daily.
The Marsh Room is a Metairie classic, offering an outdoor patio, live music selections, and great drinks at even better prices.
700 Frenchmen St., #1614 504-619-9660
Bar Marilou 544 Carondelet St. 504-814-7711
Jinx Bar and Grill 91 French Market Pl., 504-510-2797
Stumpy’s is the best place in NOLA to try your hand at throwing a hatchet. After you work up a sweat, you can grab some food and drinks while there. Have a day out with your friends!
Offering an elevated cocktail bar experience, The Peacock Room’s large drink menu has anything you could want. Perhaps you’d like one of the “Old Birds” like a Sazerac or the Washouko Mary.
This award-winning bar in the Royal Frenchmen Hotel has a stylish ambiance, live entertainment, and a beautiful courtyard. The delicious specialty cocktails are truly amazing.
Tropical Isle Multiple 504-523-1927Locations
70 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine METRY’S HOME OF LIVE MUSIC & THE “MARSH BURGER!” FOLLOW US ON4740 RYE ST., METAIRIE crescent brewhousecity Established in 1990 KITCHEN OPEN DAILY BACKMUSICw/Shrewsbury344911AM-10PMRiverRoadatinJefferson834-4938TUESDAYISSTEAKDAYHappyHourALLDAYISFRIDAY7-10PM&&SATURDAY9-MIDNIGHT
If you want to see all of the hottest sports action, then you need to go to the Jimani. A New Orleans favorite for over 40 years, the bar has over 100 beers that you can choose from!
House of Blues 225 Decatur 504-310-4999St.
Alto offers truly great views of New Orleans. After you’re done chilling in the rooftop pool, order yourself some thirstquenching cocktails like the Paloma or the Great Ulysses.
Martine’s Lounge 2347 Metairie 504-831-8637Rd.
Tropical Isle helps make Bourbon Street internationally famous. Everyone knows that if you go to Tropical Isle, you gotta get a Hand Grenade, aka New Orleans’ "most powerful drink."
Banks Street Bar is a true neighborhood bar in Mid-City. This local favorite has it all: sports, darts, drinks, music, and more. Check out their Facebook (facebook.com/BabylonSportsBar) for info on upcoming events and killer karaoke nights.
Dancing DrinkBillards Specials Food Live Music
Fillmore New Orleans 6 Canal 504-881-1555St.
The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. 504-568-1702,
1200 Poydras St., Suite C 504-577-2937
Tracey’s Irish Channel Bar 2604 Magazine St. 504-897-5413
Not only is Bar Marilou very trendy, the food and drinks on offer are fantastic. There are all kinds of drinks to choose from, such as the Jardin De Mémé and the Heloïse
Tracey’s is a fantastic place to hang out at and not just for St. Patrick’s Day! Their extensive beer catalog includes hundreds of different bottles and six draught taps.
Across the street from the historic New Orleans Jazz Museum, Jinx Bar & Grill is an ode to pop culture. It boasts handcrafted cocktails, rotating craft beers, and delicious food. Jinx’s casual atmosphere will get the party started.
Located in Mid-City, this indoor/outdoor oasis is a hub of game day fun, great drinks, and good times. Plus, it’s pet friendly for a night out with the pup!
Lots A Luck Tavern 203 Homedale St. 504-483-0978
Located in Generations Hall, the Metropolitan is a great venue option for anyone looking to party the night away. The space offers two-stories filled with dance floors, spaces for DJs, and multiple bars.
Marsh Room 740 Rye 504-571-5733St.
WhereYat.com | October 2022 71
October 2022 is a busy month for the Jewish Calendar
JEWISH HOLIDAYS IN OCTOBER
YOM KIPPUR: Sunset on Tuesday, October 4 into the evening of Wednesday, October 5
There are many ways to celebrate these holidays throughout New Orleans. Whether you are devoutly Jewish, an occasional practitioner, rediscovering your heritage, or interested in learning about someone else’s culture, here are a few options for you: attend services at one of half dozen synagogues throughout the city; tune in to catch services broadcast on WLAE; volunteer to do outreach through a Chabad house, the Jewish Community Center, or the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans; build a sukkah; or eat a bunch of delicious Jewish food by local bakers and chefs. Our five favorite places for traditional food are Stein’s Deli, Bad Dog Babka, Kosher Cajun NY Deli & Grocery, Challah Creations by Nancy, and Smoke & Honey.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, occurrs in late September, and we continue through the season, observing the ten High Holy Days, culminating in Yom Kippur, then Sukkot, and Simchat Torah.
Yom Kippur marks the last of the “Days of Awe,” also translated as the “High Holy Days.” The beginning of Rosh Hashanah to the end of Yom Kippur is a ten-day period that celebrates and symbolizes the anniversary of the creation of the world. Yom Kippur is considered one of the holiest and most somber days of the year. It is the day of Atonement, a day to fast, to repent, and to pray. In biblical times, rituals and goat sacrifices were made to represent sins leaving the body. Nowadays, many Jews choose to spend Yom Kippur in synagogue or in silent reflection. While this way of observing tends to follow within the faith, it isn’t a bad idea for any among us, no matter what religion, to spend a few hours taking account of our deeds and making amends for the year that came before.
ROSH HASHANAH: Sunset on Sunday, September 25 into the evening of Tuesday, September 27
As Judaism is a strongly food-based religion, and we live in the food-based capital of the United States, it’s worth mentioning that Yom Kippur’s 25-hour fast, a sacrifice of bodily needs and comfort, is both preceded and often succeeded by feasts, so stock up on smoked fish, cream cheese, and bagels in advance. They will be in high demand.
By Sabrina Stone
For those of you who are unfamiliar, here’s a little breakdown of what each of these Autumn holidays is about.
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● SUKKOT: Sunset on Sunday, October 9 into the evening of Sunday, October 16
Autumn Schedule of Jewish Holidays:
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year. It translates to, “the head of the year.” Its alternative name is Yom Teruah, which loosely means, “day of shouting, blowing, or blasting.” That refers to the joyful and cacophonous sound made by blowing into a hollowed out ram’s horn, a buglelike, ancient, traditional instrument that is meant to be played at least thirty times each day of the holiday. If you’ve never heard one, imagine being in an echoey room with a happy, congested elephant; it’s really an experience.There’sa lovely tradition of eating apples dipped in honey and saying a little prayer of hope to bring on a sweet new year to come.
● SIMCHAT TORAH: Sunset on Sunday, October 16 into the evening of Tuesday, October 18
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*Happy Holidays!* Chag sameach!
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H O A P A R I S H F A I R O N F A C E B O O K .
R I D E S , G A M E S L I V E M U S I C P I O N E E R T O W N , 4 H E V E N T S , M I N I W E D G E R A C I N G A N D M O R E ! F O R H E D U L E O F E V E N T S A N D M O R E I N F O W W . T A N G I F A I R . O R G O R F O L L O W H
E D G E R A C I N G A N D M O R E ! F O R F U L L S C H E D U L E O F E V E N T S A N D M O R E I N F O W W T A N G I F A I R O R G O R F O L L O W H O A P A R I S H F A I R O N F A C E B O O K S E
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Sukkot , the “Feast of the Tabernacles” or the “Festival of the Booths” is a particularly interesting holiday to celebrate in Louisiana. Sukkot begins by building a sukkah . A sukkah is a fragile, temporary architectural structure, with a roof made of tree branches and at least three delicate walls. This handmade hut is where all of the meals and rituals, throughout the holiday, are celebrated. Some bold believers choose to sleep in the structure as well, though along the Gulf Shore, that can become a tricky task. Sukkahs are purposefully made flimsy, so that you are exposed to the elements and can see the sky. Living outside for the duration of these days is a reminder that anything can happen at any moment, nothing is guaranteed, and we should be celebrating every moment of life that we are blessed to experience.Foodsfrom the harvest make the bulk of the dishes for this celebration, though, as it is about feasting, very few ingredients (that are kosher) are off the table.
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R I D E S G A M E S L I V E M U S I C P I O N E E R T O W N 4 H E V E N T S M I N I W E D G E R A C I N G A N D M O R E !
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R I D E S , G A M E S L I V E M U S I C P I O N E E R T O W N , 4 H E V E N T S , M I N I W E D G E R A C I N G A N D M O R E ! F O R H E D U L E O F E V E N T S A N D M O R E I N F O W W T A N G R . O R O L L O W H R I I R E B . S E P T E M B E R 2 8 O C T O B E R 2 “ F R O M W A G O N W H E E L
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This celebration is all about kreplach, a Jewish meat or vegetable filled dumplings, eaten like wontons, in broth or fried with applesauce and sour cream.
Simchat Torah is all about dancing and singing, while carrying around the sacred texts. Ideally, you’ve read the entire Torah in the past year and this is the time to reset and begin again. You’re not supposed to work during the holidays but you’re especially not supposed to work during this one, because it is the last event to come before Hanukkah. You’ve got two months to work until then. For now, rest and revel.
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“ F R O M W A G O N W H E E L S T O F E R R I S W H E E L S ” I D E S G A M E S L I V E M U S I C P I O N E E R T O W N 4 H E V E N T S M I N I W E D G E R A C I N G A N D M O R E ! E O E N T M O N F N G R . O R O “ F R O M W A G O N W H E E L S T O F E R R I S W H E E L S ” I D E S , G A M E S L I V E M U S I C P I O N E E R T O W N , 4 H E V E N T S , M I N I W E R O M W A G O N W H E E L S T O F E R R I S W H E E L S ” S R I S W H E E L S ” R I I R E B E P T E M B E R 2 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 0 R E I D A V E , A M I T E , L A F R O M W A G O N W H E E L S O F E R R I S W H E E L S ” E S M E S L E M U S E T E V E N T S , I N I W P T E M B E R O C T O B E R 2 0 R E I D A V E , A M I T E , L A F R O M W A G O N W H E E L S T O F E R R I S W H E E L S ”
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S E P T E M B E R 2 8 O C T O B E R 2 4 0 0 R E I D A V E , A M I T E , L A
Many thanks to Rabbi Katie Bauman of Touro Synagogue, who added some wonderful insights and information, including how WLAE will be broadcasting the High Holiday services, for the second year in a row, and how, last year, the Archbishop made a blessing and welcomed the Jewish Community into the fold; how celebrating Sukkot in the hurricane season of Louisiana is an extraordinary experience, as our safety and spirituality is so very tied into the natural elements here; and pointing out how the food, music, costumes, and dancing of Simchat Torah are also such an organic pairing with the city of New Orleans.
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WhereYat.com | October 2022 75 KeSalon Coiffure “Healing the Inner You” (504) 205-3887 Schedule online: kesalonscoiffure.com *We are walk-in friendly* — Face masks are required Follow us: 2022 Entertainment Line-Up Stage FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM RKG PARTY BAND 9:00 PM – MIDNIGHT CATEGORY 6 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 NOON – 2:00 PM TET DUR 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM RYAN FORET & FORET TRADITION 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM NASHVILLE SOUTH 9:00 PM – MIDNIGHT VELVET SKY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23 10:30 AM SUNDAY PARADE 12:30PM – 3:30PM JR & SUMTIN SNEAKY 4:00PM – 6:00PM KERRY THIBODAUX BAND 1:00PM LIVE AUCTION FOR MORE INFO VISIT LAGUMBOFEST.COM Call [504] 891-0144 to Advertise! DON’T MISS THE HALLOWEEN ISSUE DEADLINE: OCT 5 | STREET DATE: OCT 10
BROS.WARNERHISTORY;OFMUSEUMCANADIANTHEOFCOURTESYDOMAIN;PUBLIC/COMMONSWIKIMEDIATOP;FROM
LEVEE FAILURE OR SOMETHING MORE?
In the film "JFK," Kevin Costner plays Jim Garrison obsessed with his assassination conspiracy theory centered in NOLA
From skeptics of the moon landing to people believing Tupac and Elvis are still alive, conspiracy theories and superstitions have fascinated humans for centuries. Living here, we don't have to go too far to search for a good superstitious tale. From connections to the murder of JFK to voodoo potions, New Orleans has a number of interesting stories. Here's a dive into some of our favorite local conspiracy theories.
With haunted homes, mystery murders, vampires, and more, it’s no secret that this is a pretty peculiar place. The city that we love so much is filled with not only a rich cultural history, but also a history of hauntings, crimes, and odd situations that are sometimes hard to explain. There are many famous conspiracy theories and superstitionsthearoundworld.
Cassette Girls meet their suitors
When it comes to local conspiracies, this one might be the most famous. There are many conspiracies behind the murder of former president John F. Kennedy, but the most famous is that New Orleans’ born Lee Harvey Oswald either wasn’t the shooter or didn’t act alone. In fact, many of the theories point to New Orleans as the conspiracy's point of origin after a local attorney named Jim Garrison opened up an investigation into JFK's assasanation, leading to the prosecution of a local businessman. While the many layers of the investigation went unsolved, Garrison went on to write several books, with one being the primary source for the 1991 film, JFK
Most Famous ConspiraciesLocalandSuperstitions
THE LEGEND OF THE CASKET GIRLS
Known as filles à la cassette story of “the Casket Girls” is a New Orleans legend filled with exaggeration and mystery. Arriving in the new world during the 1700s, these French women were brought to be married off to the working men of the new colony. Due to the long trip and the lack of manpower, the women carried small casket shaped suitcases that were manageable enough for them to carry. Their strange suitcases with a blend of the already supernatural feel of old New Orleans opened the door for the rumor mill to conspire the legend of “the Casket Girls.”
With every major tragedy comes a plethora of conspiracy theories and the Lower 9th Ward levee failure during hurricane Katrina is one that many people have questioned over the last decade. While the story is that the storm was powerful enough to destroy a landmass such as a levee, many people believe that there is more to the story. While some blame the poor structure of the levees pre-Katrina, others claim to have heard loud explosions during Katrina, insinuating that the levees were intentionally breached in order to save other areas of the city.
CONSPIRACY OR NOT?
While the tales came much later in time, the story of “the Casket Girls” being undead vampires still locked away in the Old Ursuline Convent, is a story still being told today.
NEW ORLEANS ASSOCIATION WITH JFK’S ASSASINATION
Cassette Girls' 17th Century dowry chest resembled a casket
76 Fall Restaurant Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
WhereYat.com | October 2022 77 Lorem ipsum 2022 2022 BRATS, BREWS & BAVARIA ON THE BAYOU DEUTSCHES HAUS PRESENTS OKT 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 SCHNAUZER STRUT • BIER & SCHNAPPS LIVE BANDS • GERMAN DISHES & WWW.OKTOBERFESTNOLA.COMDESSERTS FRI 4pm - 11 pm • SAT 1pm - 11pm 1700 MOSS STREET PARKWAY FOR POOR BOYS 538 Hagan Avenue | 504.482.3047 Order online at parkwaypoorboys.com Serving New Orleans for over 100 Years
Our Private Room - Fine Dining & Social Distancing At Its Best! Gather Safely With Family & Friends in Private! Delicious Food from Briquette, Full Bar, Amazing Wines, & More! Inquiries at Briquette-Nola.com 302-7496 701 S. Peters, Warehouse District ‘‘Good Food at Good Prices” – SINCE 19461751 St. Charles Avenue [504] PleaseuNOLA.com525-9131
WHO KILLED HUEY P. LONG?
Located at the corner of Royal and Governor Nicholls Street, the LaLaurie Mansion is considered one of the most haunted sites in the city of New Orleans. While more of a superstition than a conspiracy, most locals know the story of Maire Delphine LaLaurie, the wealthy yet very cruel slave owner. It is speculated that her cruelty conjured a number of dark entities still remaining in the mansion. While it's hard to gather proof of the hauntings, there have been several terrifying stories involving the infamous mansion. From the mysterious murder of a tenant (during its apartment era), to the plethora of tormented and terrified school girls (during its girls’ school years).
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Known as the Queen of Voodoo, Marie Laveau is by far one of the most famous names in the city of New Orleans. There are many superstitions tied to the Voodoo Queen. One is that she isn't actually buried in the tomb that holds her name, while another is that she lived so long that she pretended to be the daughter of herself. With all the stories behind the mystical Marie Laveau from her charms, ceremonies, and rituals, the story of her magical potions “gris-gris” is likely the most famous. Legend has it that not only did she sell potions for healing purposes but also dabbled in love potions, helping women with taming and gaining men.
MaireLaLaurieDelphineandherMansion
Gris gris still has power at graveLaveau'sMarie
In September 1935, Louisiana’s former governor, Huey P. Long, was shot while leaving the state capitol in Baton Rouge. After dying a couple days later, the speculations into his alleged murder began to run wild. As the story goes, Huey P. Long had already felt death was near and at the night of his shooting, his accused assasinator was also murdered at the hands of his bodyguard. So what's the conspiracy in this? Well there are several, but the most common one is that some believe that the alleged assasinator was innocent and that the then senator (Huey P. Long) was killed by a stray bullet at the hands of his bodyguard.
A DARK ENTITY IN THE LALAURIE MANSION
Was Long'sHueyGov.P.deathaninsidejob?
MARIE LAVEAU’S POWERFUL POTIONS
CONGRESS;OFLIBRARY/COLLECTIONEWING&HARRIS/COMMONSWIKIMEDIA(2);DOMAINPUBLICTOP:FROM DEREK//FLICKRCOMMONSWIKIMEDIABRIDGES
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A SMOKIN GOOD TIME RETURNS ’ LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FOOD VENDORS ARTS & CRAFTS GOSPEL TENT KID ’ S ART TENT ANDOUILLE FEST RUN SECOND LINE PARADE
And I tried my luck again and again, like being seated in the Saenger with 2,600 other Hamilton enthusiasts. Once more— luck. I had so many close calls with those who tested Covid-positive during the past two plus years—and again, I was always unscathed. I was about to turn myself in to Tulane for any studies they might be doing on Covid Aroundimmunities.thistime, despite my uncanny good luck, I started masking more and more. The numbers were going up and up. It seemed like most folks I knew were getting it, and for some, a second time. Of course, these people were vaccinated and boosted but the vaccine doesn’t give you superpowers. The vaccine is designed to keep you alive in the event you become infected. It is a miracle drug, in my opinion—one that saves lives and lessens pain and suffering. It never claimed to make you bullet proof or noncontagious. But every single day, I hear a well intentioned, seemingly smart person try and put my mind at ease when they walk into my place of employment without a mask (optional) with the, “Oh! I am double boosted.” We, at work, have chosen to wear masks since day one and never for a moment lifted this voluntary protocol for ourselves. And thank god, because I can silently mouth behind the privacy of my KN95, “You dumb fucker.”
PRESENTED BY
For well over two years, I (Husband included) have been brushing past potential danger, but with eyes wide open, face fully and tightly masked, and packin’ a can of Lysol. I poured over enough data to qualify as an epidemiologist. My conversational vocabulary increased with words and terms I had never uttered before: viral load, immunocompromised, variant, monoclonal, incubation, and intubation. And oh the oxymorons: social distancing, flatten the curve, virtual hugs. And hats off to the WHO for juggling music and the health needs of the world.
Call me a hypocrite—I wouldn’t blame you. I fuss at myself for letting my guard— and my mask—down. I believe this is how I got run over by the Cootie Monster, but the vaccines and the Paxlovid (a 5-day treatment) have saved my grateful ass. Today is July 22, 2022, and we are currently in a 6th surge—enhanced, I guess, by the new variants. When this goes to press, perhaps the situation will have improved. And by the time this column is being read by you in October, maybe you can let your guard down. But baby, I am gonna keep my eye on the rearview mirror.
There we were, cruising along, feeling like we’d traveled past the danger after so many close calls, accidents, and poor judgments. Finally, we felt safer, like we had distanced ourselves from the relentless attacks. We were on cruise control, when a precautionary glance into the rearview mirror let us know it wasn’t over. There we were—jacked by the Covid Cootie Monster.
OCTOBER 14-16, 2022 St. John the Baptist Parish
The Thin Red Line
The vaccine—the holy grail—was created and manufactured in record time (in my humble opinion), and I was proud and delighted to take my four shots. I was going for a record for most nasal swab tests taken. The drive-up testing site run by the National Guard became a regular thing for hubby and I—they greeted us by name when we drove up. I could cram a Q-tip swab up my nose in my sleep if need be, and not flinch. I know, weird shit to be proud“Whyof. so many tests?” folks would ask. Well, Husband and I both discovered how fun it was to volunteer with food distributions. Sure it was helpful to folks in need but, if being honest, we got so much more from it. We made many friends, and it was a fabulous way to socialize (especially back during lock down) and be helpful; however, work required working in close proximity to others, so even with strict masking, it just seemed logical to test often. An outbreak could shut down a foodOkay,site. you get it—I enthusiastically, almost patriotically, embraced Covid protocol. And I will admit that when it got stupidly polarizingly politicized, I wore
was no longer Teflon Mary. I had crossed the line and was now Typhoid Mary.
Jazz Festers are ultimately one of the best crowds to be in. Some years back, my friend Gallivan said of the out-of-town festers as they poured into NOLA: “The collective IQ of our city just went up.” But despite the “cool” and the appreciation shown at this creative festival, not to mention the monies lavished upon us by locals and visitors alike, we were also showered with a whole bunch of airborne cooties. And lord knows I was in that number of unmasked festers. How I escaped that one was dumb luck.
TALES FROM THE QUARTER
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I felt my sincere interest and concern over this contagion and my deep affection for masking would spare me. But my adherence to masking, which I believe was and still is the best defense, began to wane. And damn it, I actually look younger with a mask and saved a ton on sunscreen as half my face was covered. I had mastered great eye contact and learned to emote with my eyes and the raising of my brows. I thought maybe I had honed some skills worthy of auditions for local theater. Just give me a can of Lysol, and I could make an entrance in a cloud of disinfectant.
my mask and tested with a rebellious righteousness. But as we all know, masks only work when you wear ‘em. Think condom: if not properly worn, then—well you know what can happen. And I let my guard down more often than I should have. Same went and still goes for so many, many very conscientious folks. Just take Jazz Fest, for example.
By Debbie Lindsey
THEBLUECRABNORTHSHORE.COM118AHARBORVIEWCT.SLIDELL985-315-7001THEBLUECRABNOLA.COM7900LAKESHOREDR.NEWORLEANS504-284-2898 with DiningaView WhereYat.com | October 2022 81
In the 1970s a forward-thinking Ella Brennan hired, outside of the box, a magician of flavor named Paul Prudhomme who put Creole and Cajun food not only on the map, but in actuality, splashed our food and flavors into the world’s faces (and the world lapped every scrap and wiped their plates clean). Culinary classes, per se, had barely started emerging as curriculum and endeavors; however, no real full time structured education for aspiring chefs took root and dared face the world, worthy of the name “school.”
NOCHI is skilling the chefs of New Orleans and the world (pun intended); the 650 hours’ course of instruction in the culinary arts as well as baking and pastry is taught by instructors who could work anywhere in the world but have chosen NOCHI. The support staff consisting of directors of admissions, educations, finance, promotions, and dining are second to none that I’ve ever seen and there is real NOCHI pride that comes to work each day. NOCHI pride is an inspiration and shines through the students (called cohorts) that are basically given an immersion into the arts, sciences, and execution of the culinary disciplines—none of which is available in on the job training.
Sometimes they began as a grocery store and shoehorned in space for a kitchen as takeout food became a source of income and by and large the kitchens were cramped, hot, sweaty, noisy, dirty, and a hard, thankless place to work. The hours were long, the pay was small, and the staff was readily expendable. There was no training curriculum except being told what to do and becoming trusted to know and do more. Workers, and those in charge of them, were invisible to the public. That was then and this is now.
Long before the advent of the Celebrity Chef, the hands that stirred the pots in New Orleans restaurants were black and people were fed well. Curiously, the business’ names are generally synonymous with the names of the (white) restaurateurs Antoine’s, Galatoire’s, Arnaud’s, Tujaques, and Kolbs.
It was the same in most major cities that became famous for food. An enterprising person put out tables, called it a café or restaurant and started serving food. Someone placed a wooden board across two barrels, called it a bar and served drinks. They stood in the way of hungry and thirsty traffic and worked and built and served and took in money and raised their children to do the same. Eventually staff was added and the owners became managers and handled the money, the clients, and their employees; then, their reputations grew.
New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute, 725 Howard Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, 70130. 504-891-4060. This article came to you spontaneously and unsolicited from NOCHI’s biggest fan: me. Thank you
Bon Appétit or Soup’s On!
By Phil LaMancusa
When a cohort finishes the 100-day course of instruction, they are on the fast track to becoming chefs, managers and owners; with this knowledge, paired with focus and dedication, the sky virtually is the limit.
Imagine, if you will, the arrival of a new class of cohorts; they’re in their fresh white chef’s jackets, have new knife kits, are freshly scrubbed and more than a little intimidated by what lies ahead: being thrown into the deep end of the culinary pool. Slowly, they gain their footing and take on the rhythm of learning: knife skills, protein fabrication, bread baking, basic desserts both fancy and fancier, breakfast and lunch standard dishes, as well as the preparation of meals in twelve nationalities. They gain visible confidence.
Fast forward to the twentieth century where our food Mecca is comprised of restaurant museums, factories, and little mom and pop places that carved out niches and anchored neighborhoods. Any cook or culinarian with any ambition left town for training (and generally did not come back) and any ambitious restaurateur fished outside of this small pond for talent. The food here was mostly popular with locals.
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At the close of each course the cohorts “pop up” a simulated restaurant in the third floor dining lab where the public (by reservation) gets to sample what their capabilities have become. Don’t miss out on a magical mystery meal; there may be one coming up before you know it.
In 2017 after three years of negotiations, a location at 725 Howard Avenue, a space of 94,000 square feet, quietly began construction of what would become the New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute or NOCHI. At that time the hospitality industry was the region’s largest employer with a workforce of 88,000 people, and it was clear to anyone with the sense of a goat that a lack of education was the one thing seriously holding so many employees back. Several New Orleans culinary and business heavy hitters including Ti Martin of Commander's Palace and Dickie Brennan backed the foundling enterprise with energy, financial astuteness, fancy footwork, and allaround audacity. NOCHI opened for its first class in January 2019.
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We all know what the last three years have been like and can probably imagine what any business in New Orleans has been through; it’s been like that at NOCHI— squared. The economy, the pandemic, the hurricane, the pandemic again, and the recession have bent, but not broken, the spirit of NOCHI which is like a proud ship sailing rough seas. As captain and executive director of that ship, Chef Leah Sarris, RD, LDN holds fast to the vision and purpose.
PO-BOY VIEWS
I started at the location with World Central Kitchen during Hurricane Ida where NOCHI turned the building into a machine that put over half a million meals into the stomachs of New Orleanians along with four surrounding parishes. I stayed on and became Executive Events Chef and part of a cadre of professionals dedicated to making NOCHI look sharp and stand tall.
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have zero romantic chemistry.
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At the midway point, a new character, AJ (Justin Long), is dropped into the movie. AJ is a Hollywood actor, and is accused of rape by an actress he has worked with. AJ also owns the property where Tess and Keith are staying.
That is all that should be said about the plot. Just know that this movie gets bonkers. Imagine if someone made a good little thriller, then a sequel was ordered and the filmmakers, not wanting to repeat themselves, made a balls-to-the-wall gore fest as the follow up. Barbarian's writer/ director Zach Cregger seems to have said, “Screw it!” and crushed two movies into one. Now, it is somewhat jarring when Barbarian switches gears halfway through, and it's why some viewers may not like it, but easy to see it
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If you’re looking for a nasty medievalset film about warlords kidnapping a noblewoman, try Paul Verhoeven’s (Robocop, Total Recall) 1985 effort Flesh + Blood with Rutger Hauer and Jennifer Jason Leigh instead. –Fritz Esker
works.With
By David Vicari & Fritz Esker
FILM REVIEWS
Medieval often is, it puts extra pressure on its filmmakers to deliver a compelling story or characters to make the unpleasantness worthwhile. Writer/director Petr Jakl does not deliver that.
AVENUETHESTUDIOS;CENTURY20THTOP;FROM
This horror movie opens, appropriately, on a rainy night as Tess Marshall (Georgina Campbell) attempts to get into the rental house that she booked. The front door key isn't where it should be, but she sees that someone is inside the house. It turns out that the place was rented to someone else as well. By mistake? Anyway, the occupant, a strange young man named Keith (Bill Skarsgård), tells Tess that she can stay the night, and that they can figure out things with the rental snafu in the morning. Even though she feels a bit uneasy about the situation, Tess does agree to stay the night. As bad luck would have it, it appears that Tess and Keith are not alone in the house. Of course, the characters have to do something stupid to move the plot along, and that is to explore the dark basement.
Barbarian, Cregger examines toxic masculinity, and it is not presented in a subtle whisper, but more like a guttural scream. Its message is totally in-your-face here, and some may prefer that to the rather pretentious style of Alex Garland’s recent film, Men. Some may have fun with Barbarian. It’s suspenseful, darkly funny, and has good performances. –David Vicari
ollywood has released precious little of interest to theaters since mid-August (although the calendar looks more promising from mid-September onwards). The historical epic Medieval does nothing to change that.
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part. But even after it gets all of the exposition out, the interactions between characters remain stilted. The wooden dialogue leaves the actors stranded. Foster and Goode have done strong work in other films, and cinema treasure Michael Caine also appears in the movie, but they have nothing to work with. Foster and Ward
arbarian is like two different movies that have been successfully crossbred. The first one is a quiet, you-can-hear-a-pin-drop thriller, and then the second is—well, it will ruin the experience of seeing the movie if too much is said. However, there is a scene in the second half in which a character not only has their arm ripped from its socket, but they are then beaten with the bloody limb.
The only thing that makes Medieval stand out is its nauseating, over-the-top gore. Even people like me, who grew up on gory 80s action and horror films will find themselves wincing at the frequently disgusting carnage here. And because the script fails to make any of charactersthe movieviolence.burstsinterruptedstretchestheorrecognizablyseemhumaninteresting,resultislongoftedium,byofsickeningWhenaisasuglyas
Ben Foster plays Czech warlord Jan Zizka. He and his men are contracted to kidnap the fiancee (Sophie Ward) of a local lord (Til Schweiger) in league with the king’s sinister brother expositionscript(Karelforhelpgainso,Goode).(MatthewIndoingtheyhopetoleverageandsecurepowerKingWenceslasRoden).Theclumsyhasalotofintheearly
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OCTOBER7,8&9 FREE PARKING & SHUTTLE FROM OAKWOOD SHOPPING CENTER FREE PARKING AT 3RD & DERBIGNYPRICES:TICKET SINGLE DAY $20 WEEKEND PASS $45 TICKETS ON SALE NOW! GRETNAFEST.COM GRACEFRIDAYPOTTER CON FUNK SHUN • FRANK FOSTER • TANK AND THE BANGAS THE SUFFERS • CRAWFORD & POWER • WATER SEED • DRAKE MILLIGAN • STEVE RILEY & THE MAMOU PLAYBOYS GAL HOLIDAY AND THE HONKY TONK REVUE • LA TRAN-K BAND THE REVIVALISTS HERMAN’SDUMPSTAPHUNKSATURDAYBRETTYOUNG•IRMATHOMASHERMITSSTARRINGPETERNOONE COWBOY MOUTH • ROCKIN’ DOPSIE JR & THE ZYDECO TWISTERS • THE ICEMAN SPECIAL DEACON JOHN & THE IVORIES • JOHN BOUTTÉ • AL “LIL FATS” JACKSON • THE TOPCATS • LVVRS MIKE DILLON & PUNKADELICK • WENDELL BRUNIOUS BAND • THE YAT PACK • LOUISIANA KIDS JOHN FOGERTY SUNDAYGOV’TMULE NIKO MOON • LARKIN POE • NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS THE ORIGINAL LAKESIDE ERIC LINDELL & THE TWILIGHT ORCHESTRA • CHAPEL HART • KERMIT RUFFINS & THE BARBEQUE SWINGERS NEW ORLEANS NIGHTCRAWLERS • AMANDA SHAW & THE CUTE GUYS • CHASE TYLER BAND DWAYNE DOPSIE & THE ZYDECO HELLRAISERS • ANDY HYMEL’S SCHOOL OF MUSIC THE BEACH BOYS PRESENTS
