A P R I L 27 G A L L AT I N S T R E E T F E S T A P R I L 28
I N T E R N AT IO N A L JA Z Z DAY F E S T I VA L
S E P T E M B E R 12 N O L A R I V E R F E S T
May in New Orleans is when everything clicks: the days stretch a little longer, the music gets a little louder, and the city reminds you exactly why it stands apart from anywhere else in the world.
Things kick off with a bang with the second weekend of Jazz Fest. This issue has cubes and the map, as well as our picks of who to see and what to eat. We also share night shows to catch, along with the city’s most complete concert calendar.
Country superstar Lainey Wilson is coming home to Louisiana. She chats with Emily Hingle about what will be her first Jazz Fest, along with singing about tequila as a 10-year-old.
Speaking of tequila, Cinco de Mayo is another excuse for New Orleans to turn culture into celebration. Arielle Gonzales explores some of the city’s unique margaritas and where to find them around town.
If you’re looking for a unique gift for Mother’s Day, check out Frances Deese’s selection of experience-based presents. She looks at unique locales that you probably never knew existed.
Finally, don’t miss profiles of Greek culture heading into Greek Fest, local veterans to commemorate on Memorial Day, and more.
— Josh Danzig, Publisher
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig
Creative Director: Emilia Cicero
Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff
Assistant Editor: Donald Rickert
Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker
Contributing Writers: Jeff Boudreaux, Frances Deese, Arielle Gonzales, Emily Hingle, Amy Kirk Duvoisin, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Michelle Nicholson, Kim Ranjbar, Kimmie Tubré
Cover: Lainey Wilson
photo credit: Sacks & Co. Nashville
Director of Sales: Jim Sylve
Photographers and Designers: Burke Bischoff, Gustavo Escanelle, Emily Hingle, Kim Ranjbar, Robert Witkowski
Interns: Melody Daniels, Davis Hopper, Robert "Drew" Hudson, Cassidy Meehan, Sydni Sanders, Alya Satchu, Aaliya Weheliye
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Where Y’at Magazine 5500 Prytania St., #133 New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 891-0144 info@whereyat.com WhereYat.com
From top: Adobe Stock; Gustavo Escanelle
A Homecoming and Premiere
An Interview with Lainey Wilson
WILSON | FRIDAY,
EMILY HINGLE
Country music superstar Lainey Wilson’s first time attending the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival will be her performance debut.
“There were a couple times when I was invited to go, and I knew that I was going to have fun,” Wilson mused. “I told myself, ‘I’m not going to Jazz Fest until I play it myself.’ I’m glad that I held
career. “Before anything, I’m a storyteller. I’m a songwriter,” she stated. Her lyrics are thoughtfully crafted to evoke emotions and form connections with her fans and anyone who happens to be “leaning in and listening.”
was watching. It was Little Jimmy Dickens, Bill Anderson, and Phil Vassar. I just remember the feeling that I had of wanting to stand in that circle. I want to tell stories like they do.’”
Storytelling is at the heart of Wilson’s illustrious
ventures have come into existence. This includes her small screen role on Yellowstone and big screen role in Reminders of Him. Her touch can be experienced through Golden West Boots, the Lainey Wilson Jewelry Collection, Lainey Wilson X Wrangler, and the Nashville restaurant Bell Bottoms
Up. “I didn’t grow up dreaming about having my own jewelry line, boot company, and all these things,” she explained. “Opportunities have presented themselves through my songwriting and through my storytelling.”
The popular country songs of the 1990s were a particularly strong influence on her songwriting journey, though Wilson strives to be more thoughtful in her lyrics. “I was singing about tequila and cigarettes at 10 years old and not having a clue what I was singing about. There’s a lot of little girls at my show, specifically. They show up just like I did when I was their age, leaning in and listening. I want to make sure that I believe what I say. I feel like it’s important to me to say something that means something.”
Wilson feels that a lyrical renaissance may be happening in the world of popular music, at least in the Nashville music community. “I feel like people are talking about how they feel a little bit more,” she said. “People are tapping back into that. It seems like some of the fluff is getting cut out, which I love, and I’m proud to be a part of something that means something.”
She lingered on the thought of writing moving songs, not just about your own experiences but touching on themes that might strike a deep chord in others. “It’s about getting out there and realizing I might be telling a story and writing a song, but this don’t actually have anything to do with me. It’s got something to do with the people who showed up and are listening. It’s my job to make them feel something. That’s the power of music. ”
No matter how astronomical the trajectory of Wilson’s stardom, it all goes back to weaving a good story, one that pulls you in and blocks all distractions. Living in the moment and being present is increasingly difficult in a loud, digital landscape. “I grew up on the edge of my seat, leaning in and listening to stories that my mama and daddy would tell me just over and over. The ones that got better every single time you’d listen. You’d hear them from a different angle than you did before, and you’d learn something from them about yourself, about other people—just the world in general. That’s what all this is about. It’s about leaning in and listening or telling the story.”
Wilson is elated to be able to share her stories with her fans and soon-to-be fans at Jazz Fest. She concluded, “I’m excited to be able to come home to Louisiana and be trusted to get up on that stage where so many incredible people have performed. It’s really wild. It feels good to be able to come home and tip my hat to the place that raised me.”
photos: courtesy Sacks & Co. Nashville
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS TOP PICKS FOR THURSDAY, APRIL 30
Comanche Hunters Mardi Gras Indians Jazz & Heritage Stage | 11:25 a.m. to 12:05 p.m.
The 7th Ward Creole Hunters are a prominent Black Masking Indian tribe led by Big Chief Jermaine Bossier. They will be collaborating with the Golden Comanche Tribe, led by Together, they will showcase New Orleans’ unique Mardi Gras Indian tradition.
Zigaboo Modeliste
Funk Revue Festival Stage | 1:20-2:20 p.m.
Joseph “Zigaboo”
Modeliste is a renowned percussionist and performer. He was a founding member of the Meters and has worked with artists such as Professor Longhair and Erykah Badu. Modeliste has many accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and Stones’ “100 Greatest Drummers of All Time.”
Widespread Panic Festival Stage | 4:30-7:00 p.m.
Widespread Panic is a Southern rock band from Athens, GA. The band, led by John Bell, was formed when the artists went to the University of Georgia together. They have broken performance records all over the country and have played many iconic music festivals including Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza.
Fred Wesley & his New JBs
WWOZ Jazz Tent | 5:45-7:00 p.m.
Fred Wesley is an iconic trombonist, composer, and band leader who has worked with Parliament-Funkadelic. His band mixes jazz, funk, and soul and is known for its lively rhythm section. His band’s name is an homage to Wesley’s time in James Brown’s band.
Fry Bread
United Houma Nation | LA Folklife Village
The United Houma Nation is a Native American community from Louisiana and Mississippi. Their fry bread is a crunchy golden disk and can be served sweet or savory like an “Indian taco.” They will also be serving shrimp or sausage maque choux.
Mango Freeze
WWOZ Community Radio | Around the Grounds
The Mango Freeze began as a beloved tradition to raise money and awareness for the WWOZ radio station. The sorbet has a bright and tangy flavor and is made with simple ingredients. Now, decades later, the drink is an iconic fixture of
Emma Fick was born in Covington, LA, and moved to Serbia for two years after college. Her art is inspired by many Serbian mythological creatures, which she mixes with Louisiana symbols. Fick’s illustrations also feature flora and fauna of southern Louisiana with a unique
Starr Hagenbring
Starr Hagenbring | Contemporary Crafts
Starr Hagenbring uses vintage fabrics and paints or embroiders over them to create unique patterns that people can wear. Her fabric designs range from classical paintings to insects and skulls. Hagenrings ‘ clothes are filled with colors and shapes inspired by her world travels.
Sasha Masakowski as Tra$h Magnolia
Rhythmpourium | 4:45-5:30 p.m.
Sasha Masakowski is a New Orleans-based jazz singer who is currently working on a project called Tra$h Magnolia, where she performs original electronic pop music. The music, featuring synthesizers, loop machines, and drums, will transport you to a different universe.
Ingrid Lucia Economy Hall | 5:45-6:40 p.m.
Ingrid Lucia is a jazz singer and songwriter, known for her unique vocals that she honed in New York. She blends the smoothness of jazz and blues with swing to create a vintage sound, helping to revive a musical era that many listeners yearn for.
Pocket Chocolate is a NOLA-based funk and soul band. Their top-streamed songs on Spotify include “Tell Me Twice” and “Whatchu Know.” This sevenpiece band is currently in the studio working on their next album, with shows coming up, including one at Tipitina’s.
Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie
Fais Do-Do Stage | 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie is a Louisiana Creole band that brings zydeco, country, and Western influences to their sound, creating a unique and enjoyable musical experience. Delafose’s 2007 album Le Cowboy Creole was nominated for Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album at the Grammys.
BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet
Fais Do-Do Stage | 4:25-5:25 p.m.
BeauSoleil is a Lafayette-based band bringing a modern twist to traditional Louisiana French music. The group released their first album in 1977, consisting of original Cajun folk music. This led to their Grammy Awards debut, where they won Best Traditional Folk Album.
The Skatalites
Cultural Exchange Pavilion | 5:00-6:00 p.m.
The Skatalites is a Jamaican ska band most prominent from 1964 to 1965, continuing to take the stage even 50 years later. They have worked with artists including Bob Marley & the Wailers and Prince Buster. They also have acquired Grammy Awards and nominations.
Lainey Wilson
Festival Stage | 5:20-7:00 p.m.
Releasing her first album in 2014, singer/songwriter and Louisiana native Lainey Wilson has gained widespread recognition for her country music. Wilson has been awarded various accolades, including 16 Academy of Country Music Awards, nine Country Music Association Awards, and one Grammy Award.
From top: Gustavo Escanelle; The All-Nite / Wikimedia Commons
Michael Doucet
The Skatalites
TOP PICKS FOR FRIDAY, MAY 1
The Pfister Sisters Economy Hall Tent | 5:45-6:40 p.m.
The Pfister Sisters have brought jazz performances to stages across NOLA since 1979 and have shared stages with Linda Ronstadt and Irma Thomas. The band’s members—Holley Bendtsen, Yvette Voelker, Karen Stoehr, and Amasa Miller—replicate the intricate harmonies of the Boswell Sisters from 1925 New Orleans.
Crawfish Sack
Patton’s Caterers | Food Area 1
Patton’s Caterers makes a return appearance at Jazz Fest. Patton’s serves off-sight catering, corporate events, and is connected to the Salmen-Fritchie House as a specialty venue. Don’t miss out on crawfish season with their crawfish sacks and get one for yourself to fuel your festival endeavors.
Iced Café Au Lait
New Orleans Coffee Company | Food Area 2
New Orleans Coffee Company will be energizing crowds this Jazz Fest with their iced café au laits.
New Orleans Coffee Company is a city favorite, serving as a coffee manufacturer whose products can be found in local grocery stores and online.
Steamed Veggies & Rice
Palmer’s Jamaican Cuisine | Congo Square
Palmer’s Jamaican Cuisine is cooking up steamed veggies and rice for guests looking for something to snack on near the Congo Square Stage. This is one of their many dishes they provide, which include Jamaican chicken, curry chicken patties, and spicy beef patties.
Chicquita Attipoe
Chicquita Attipoe | Congo Square
While seeing fantastic acts at the Congo Square Stage, stop by jewelry stands and visit artists such as Chicquita Attipoe. There, you can find uniquely designed metal jewelry that’s both durable and creative. Stop by Tent U to see Chicquita Attipoe’s
Crawfish Sack
Lainey Wilson
Geno Delafose
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS TOP PICKS
FOR SATURDAY, MAY 2
Dee-1
Congo Square Stage | 11:20 a.m. to 12:25 p.m.
New Orleans-based Dee-1 is known for his conscious hip-hop, which is rooted in education, faith, and social justice. A former teacher, he gained national attention with songs such as “Sallie Mae Back” and for collaborating with Mannie Fresh, emphasizing positive messaging with mainstream rap.
The Paulin Brothers Brass Band
Economy Hall Tent | 12:25-1:25 p.m.
The Paulin Brothers Brass Band carries a multigenerational brass legacy that is rooted in second line tradition. Descended from the Paulin family, their performances emphasize parade rhythms, improvisation, and storytelling, reflecting decades of participation in Jazz Fest and New Orleans’ street music culture.
Tribute to Jelly Roll’s Red Hot Peppers
Economy Hall Tent | 3:05-4:05 p.m.
This year’s Jazz Fest will feature a tribute to Jelly Roll Morton’s Red Hot Peppers, whose 1920s recordings, such as “Black Bottom Stomp,” helped to define early jazz arranging. Jazz musicians Dr. Michael White and Shaye Cohn will be featured in the tribute and performance.
Ghalia Volt
Rhythmpourium | 4:45-5:30 p.m.
Belgian-born blues and rock singer/songwriter Ghalia Volt blends Mississippi hill country blues with garage rock. Known for albums including Mississippi Blend, she collaborates with Southern musicians and channels influences such as R.L. Burnside, building an international following through touring and impactful performances.
Little Feat
Blues Tent | 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Little Feat blends rock, funk, jazz, and New Orleans influences. Known for songs and albums including “Dixie Chicken” and Waiting for Columbus, the band’s intricate musicianship and background have sustained a following for decades despite lineup changes after founder Lowell George’s death.
T-Pain
Congo Square Stage | 5:55-6:55 p.m.
T-Pain has revolutionized modern pop and hip-hop with his auto-tune vocals on songs including “Buy U a Drank” and “I’m Sprung.” A Grammy-winning artist, he’s influenced a generation of artists while also showcasing his natural vocal abilities in projects including On Top of the Covers.
Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas
Fais Do-Do Stage | 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Fronted by accordionist Nathan Williams, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas have been staples of the genre since the 1980s. Grammy winners known for albums such as Follow Me Chicken, the band merges traditional Creole zydeco with blues and R&B.
YaKa-Mein
Ms. Linda’s Catering | Food Area 1
Ms. Linda’s Catering serves NOLA’s iconic yaka-mein, AKA “old sober,” with beef broth, noodles, eggs, and green onions. The dish is long associated with New Orleans street food culture. Ms. Linda Green became known at festivals for preserving this treasured Creole comfort dish.
Crawfish Monica
Big River Foods | Food Area 2
Big River Foods will be serving crawfish Monica, a very popular dish to be tried during Jazz Fest. The creamy, spicy pasta is loaded with Louisiana crawfish and seasonings, making it a staple that symbolizes the festival’s focus on local cuisine.
Nicole Ockmond
Studio NO | Louisiana Marketplace
Studio NO artist Nicole Ockmond creates bold, graphic works that are inspired by Louisiana’s flora, fauna, and culture. Her prints and designs are often seen across regional markets. The images she creates combine modern illustration with New Orleans imagery and vibrant colors.
T-Pain Little Feat
Nicole Ockmond
JAZZ FEST PREVIEWS
Marc Stone
Blues Tent | 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Marc Stone has become a staple of New Orleans’ blues scene. Stone has released six albums, the latest of which, Shinning like a Diamond, has become critically acclaimed. He has collaborated with Walter “Wolfman” Washington, George Porter Jr., and many more artists.
Lil’ Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers
Fais Do-Do Stage | 3:00-3:55 p.m.
First taking the stage at 2 years old, Lil’ Nathan has gone on to perform for tens of thousands at the Bayou Classic, Jazz Fest, and more. The son of zydeco musician Nathan Williams, he’s shared the stage with big names such as Kevin Gates.
Wanda Rouzan with Fabulous Friends Forever
Gospel Tent | 4:05-5:05 p.m.
Wanda Rouzan is a legend with a career spanning over 60 years, having first recorded music back in 1965 while studying at Xavier University. She’s a Jazz Fest regular, making appearances since 1979, and incorporates jazz, blues, funk, soul, and more into her sound.
Teddy Swims
Festival Stage | 4:05-5:20 p.m.
Blending pop, R&B, and soul, Teddy Swims is a Grammy nominated artist with over nine billion streams with the help of hits such as “Lose Control.” After selling out global tours, the Atlanta based artist is one not to be missed at Jazz Fest.
Herbie
Hancock
VIRGIN HOTELS NEW ORLEANS
PRESENTS: COUCHES RECORDS AFTER JAZZ FEST EXPERIENCE
Saturday, April 25, 2026 - 9PM
Safiya & Marcella Simien
21+
Saturday, May 2, 2026 - 9PM
21+
From left: courtesy Warner Music; Gustavo Escanelle
Teddy Swims
TOP PICKS FOR SUNDAY, MAY 3
Robin Barnes & the Fiya Birds
Lagniappe Stage | 4:55-6:00 p.m.
Officially titled “the Songbird of New Orleans,” Robin Barnes broke out in 2016 with her first EP Songbird Sessions, which reached #5 on Billboard’s Traditional Jazz Chart. Her music has been featured on Queer as Folk and Daisy Jones & the Six.
Steve Earle feat. Anders Osborne
Fais Do-Do Stage | 5:40-7:00 p.m.
Steve Earle has had songs recorded by legends such as Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings. Anders Osborne showcases influences from artists such as Neil Young and Bob Dylan. Together, they will bring an immensity of history and skill to Jazz Fest this year.
Herbie Hancock
WWOZ Jazz Tent | 5:40-7:00 p.m.
Herbie Hancock, a Grammy-winning jazz legend, brings over 60 years of experience to the stage with songs such as “Chameleon” and “Cantaloupe Island.” Don’t miss the pioneer of jazz fusion performing some of the most recognizable songs in jazz’s history.
Fried Oyster Spinach Salad
Vucinovich’s Restaurant | Food Area 1
For when a po-boy is a little too heavy under the Jazz Fest sun, Vucinovich’s fried oyster spinach salad is there for you. These corn-fried oysters sit on a bed of spinach and come with onions and a creamy sauce.
Gỏi Cuốn
(Spring Roll)
Ba Mien Vietnamese Cuisine | Heritage Square
Not in the mood for fried food? Ba Mien’s Vietnamese spring rolls are light, cool, and a refreshing take on typical festival food. Made with herbs, rice paper, and vermicelli noodles, those rolls are perfect for a quick and healthy bite.
Andrew Pollack
Pollack Glass | Contemporary Crafts
Be sure to check out Pollack Glass’ collection of sculpted and blown glass glimmering in the festival sun this year.
Founded by Andrew Pollack, this local lampworking studio crafts a wide variety of beauties from beads and marbles to figurines and sculptures.
Anders Osborne
Andrew Pollack
in your purse or pocket!
ANDERS OSBORNE FEATURING JACKIE GREENE
MARC BROUSSARD JOJO HERMANN & FRIENDS
LOST BAYOU R AMBLERS WITH LOUISIANA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTR A
THE BREAKS (EDDIE ROBERTS, STANTON MOORE, ROBERT WALTER)
NEW ORLEANS SUSPECTS WITH BIG SAM
RIVER ECKERT: NOL A PIANO LEGENDS
C J CHENIER AND THE RED HOT LOUISIANA BAND
ERIC A FALLS FEATURING CHALI 2NA & MARCUS MACHADO
BONER AMA NEVILLE SONS SLUGGER
CC ADCOCK & THE L AFAYET TE MARQUIS
BIG CHIEF JUAN PARDO’S TRIBAL GOLD
ORIGINAL PINETTES BR ASS BAND SOUL PROJECT
JOURDAN THIBODEAUX ET LES RÔDAILLEURS
BR ASS-A-HOLICS LEGACY COALITION
& Jockimo's Groove 6:40 pm 12:20 pm Shades of Praise Interracial Gospel Choir 1:05 pm 1:20 pm Arthur & Friends Community Choir 2:05 pm 3:30 pm Jekalyn Carr 4:35 pm 11:30 am Sarah Quintana 12:35
French Quarter Ghost Tour
Walking Tour $30
3pm Daily (Only on)(Dec. 26 - Aug 15 & Oct 1 - Nov 30)
6pm + 8pm - Every night
5 in 1 Tour Experience
Walking Tour $30 5:00pm & 7:30pm Daily/Nightly Monday - Sunday
New Orleans Voodoo Tour
Walking Tour $30
7:30 - Fri./Sat./Sun. Haunted Pub Crawl
Walking Tour $30
5:30pm & 8:15pm Nightly TRUE CRIME TOUR
Walking Tour $30
5:15pm & 7:45pm
New Orleans Cemetery Tour
Walking Tour
10:15am & 1:15pm Daily Departs from Morning Call Coffee Shop, 5101 Canal Blvd. Garden District Tour
Walking Tour $30 10am & 1:00pm Daily
Departs from LePitit Blue, 1437 Washington Avenue
Walking Tour
Pocket Chocolate, 10 pm
The Snozzberries, Midnight
Mike Dillon, Kris Myers, Brian Haas, Chris Senac, & Joe Marcinek
Nir Felder/Alex Wasily/Sam Fribush/Brad Miller/ Charlie Haynes, 10 pm
John Michael Bradford ft. Dirty Thirty & Surprise Special Guests!
The Soul Rebels
Bakey’s Brew, 10 pm
Billy Iuso, Midnight Slugger ft. Rick Lollar, 10 pm
Steve Kelly ft. Noah Young, Joe Pizzola
Sam Kuslan, & Sam Shahin, Midnight
Kevin Scott, Terence Higgins, Nir Felder, Rick Lollar, Mark Radabaugh, 1 am
The Soul Rebels, 11 pm
Joey Houch, 11 pm
Jamie Bernstein and Zen Cowboys, 11 pm
The Soul Rebels, 11 pm
Heavy Weather, 11 pm
Melodious Allen & The Funk Heads, 11 pm
The Soul Rebels, 11 pm
Basch Jernigan, 11 pm
The New Orleans Johnnys, 11 pm
KITCHEN OPEN WED–SUN 11AM–8PM
NIGHT SHOW PICKS
Second Weekend
Here are top picks for night shows around New Orleans to keep the music going on April 28-May 3.
Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe Plays
Jimmy Cliff
Thursday, April 30, 8 p.m.
Fillmore New Orleans, $49.75 to $98
A Jimmy Cliff tribute performance is coming to the Fillmore on April 30, featuring Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe and La Lom. This event celebrates the legacy of Jamaican reggae musician Jimmy Cliff. Tiny Universe will bring Cliff’s arrangements to life in a seven-piece funk and jazz performance, led by Karl Denson, the former saxophonist for the Rolling Stones. The band formed, in-part, out of Denson’s desire to pursue a leadership role in a new artistic space. The other band members—Ricio Fruge, Ricky Giordano, Rashon Murph, Parker McAllister, Alfred Jordan, and Danielle Barker—help make this dream come true and have created a new funk sound.
Nell Simmons-Bradley
Friday, May 1, 7 p.m.
Commons Club, Free Admission
Grahame Lesh & Friends
April 28 & 29, 7:30 p.m.
The Joy Theater, $62.15 to $200.40
Grahame Lesh is performing at the Joy Theater for two nights, bringing even more talent to a weekend full of musical creativity. Lesh is also known as the son of Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh. His celebrated technique is surely genetic as Grahame Lesh follows in the footsteps of his father, showcasing his skill on the guitar and complementary vocals. The group performs original music, as well as Grateful Dead pieces. The unique system of Grahame Lesh & Friends enables various artists to join the group, creating a revolving line up that has featured Oteil Burbridge, Holly Bowling, John Molo, Jason Crosby, and Daniel Donato.
The Commons Club at the Virgin Hotels New Orleans has launched a live music series called Quarter Sounds, which will feature Nell Simmons-Bradley on May 1. Simmons is most famously known for her appearance on Season 27 of The Voice, the Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert shows, and USA Today. Simmons has also appeared at the Virgin Hotels New Orleans in the past while performing for the Zulu Ball. As a New Orleans native and musician, it is only proper that Simmons is featured locally during one of the most popular festivals in the city.
Nell Simmons-Bradley
Fareed Haque Trio
May 3, 11.59 p.m.
Café Istanbul, $40 to $50
Fareed Haque is one of the most outstanding and highly-regarded guitarists on the scene and has spent decades creating stunning musical explorations with his band Garaj Mahal and musical luminaries including Sting, Arturo Sandoval, Danilo Perez, Giovanni Hidalgo, Paquito D’Rivera, Howard Levy, Herbie Mann, Bob James, Richie Cole, Joey Caldarazzo, John Patitucci, Joe Henderson, Joe Zawinul, and scores more. This spectacular 2026 Café Istanbul Nightfest
Wilco
April 30 & May 1, 9 p.m.
Saenger Theatre, $60.39 to $96.99
Wilco will be performing at the Saenger Theatre on April 30 and May 1, serving as the perfect close to April and kick off to May. Wilco is a rock band based out of Chicago and was formed in 1994. The group has received various Grammy Awards, celebrating their albums and sound, which incorporates indie rock, folk rock, alternative country, and more. Their hit songs include “Jesus, Etc.,” “California Starts,” and “How to Fight Loneliness.” With over two million monthly Spotify listeners, guests can expect a large audience turnout for the chance to catch this beloved band live.
Closing Night Show features New Orleans heavyweights Herlin Riley on drums and bassist Mark Brooks. Don’t miss these three masters at work and play.
// CASSIDY MEEHAN
Wilco
Fareed Haque Trio
Clockwise: courtesy Grahame
Lesh; courtesy Bryan
J.
Sutter; courtesy Fareed Haque
Trio; courtesy Virgin; courtesy Live Nation
LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE
Rumble on the Gulf
Now to October 29 | silverslipper-ms. com/rumble-on-the-gulf Rumble on the Gulf is back at the Silver Slipper Casino in Bay St. Louis, MS. As the sun sets over the Gulf, stroll the beachfront for a lineup of classic cars, hot rods, Jeeps, and motorcycles. Then, cast your vote for your favorite. Enjoy beachside drinks, plus casino perks, including a $5 slot voucher and entries into weekly and grand prize giveaways. This year, they have invited local food trucks and live music featuring a new band every week. It is free to the public, making this the perfect way to gather, socialize, and enjoy the Gulf Coast.
Cherries Jubilee
May 8-17 | jpas.org/theatre/westwegoperforming-arts-theatre
The Jefferson Performing Arts Society is staging Cherries Jubilee this May. The hit local comedy was first staged in 2001 when it was supposed to run for only two weekends; however, due to overwhelming demand, the play ran for three months. Now, for two weekends, the beloved play is back at the Westwego Performing Arts Theatre. This heartwarming ensemble comedy is set in the Garden District and follows five friends as they navigate the complexities of life. The play opens in the year 1960, when the main characters are fresh out of college, and spans over 35 years of life.
Sail 250 New Orleans
May 28 to June 1 | sail250neworleans.com America’s semiquincentennial— or the sestercentennial or bisesquicentennial—however you’d like to call it, is approaching. To help celebrate 250 years of independence, Sail 250 New Orleans is bringing 12 remarkable ships to the Port of New Orleans. The ships, aptly designated “tall ships,” come from all around the world, creating the largest flotilla of its kind. Visitors can expect a range of activities, including a welcoming parade, extensive fireworks over the river, and tours of the impressive ships. Come down to the river and celebrate America’s sestercentennial with a glimpse into nautical history.
LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR
MUSIC CALENDAR
SATURDAY, APRIL 25
30/90 Jake Landry, The Frequency Kanectk
Bacchanal Bayou
Manouche, Miles Berry
Bamboula’s Johnny Mastro, Paggy Prine
BJs Quintron, Miss Pussycat
Blue Nile Afrobeat NOLA, The Rumble
Café Istanbul Axial Tilt
Cafe Negril Bon Bon Vivant
Chickie Wah Wah Darrell Scott, Durand Jones
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
D.B.A. The Soul Rebels, Tuba Skinny
Fillmore Better Than Ezra
Gasa Gasa HollyRock
House of Blues Mac McAnally
Le Bon Temps Roule Pocket Chocolate, The Snozzberries
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
Mother-in-Law Lounge Kermit Ruffins
Music Box Village The Headhunters, Gitkin
New Marigny Theatre Helen Gillet, Nikki Glaspie
New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Judith Owen
No Dice BORZOI, Graveyard Hours
NOLA Brewing The Filthy Six, Nick Etwell
Preservation Hall Wendell Brunious, Preservation Hall Legacy Band
Rabbit Hole The Crystal Method, Morning 40 Federation
Republic Voodoo Dead
Rivershack Tavern Clay Diamond
Rock ‘n’ Bowl Bonerama, River Eckert
Saenger Theatre Trombone Shorty
Siberia Dan Deacon
Spotted Cat Shake ’Em Up Jazz Band
The Broadside Jon Cleary, John Boutte
The Jazz Playhouse The Nayo Jones Experience
Three Maries Glen David Andrews Band, Cyril Neville
Tipitina’s Galactic
Toulouse Ivan Neville, Adam Deitch
Virgin Hotels Tablibah Safiya & Marcella Simien
SUNDAY, APRIL 26
Bayou Bar Double Bird, Peter Harris
BJs Wits End Brass Band
Blue Nile Kota Doas, Street Legends
Bourbon O Bar Kid Merv, All That Jazz
Buffa’s David Doucet
Banks Street Bar Manu Gomez Band
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Eric Bloom
BJs Chaz Blues Trio, Tuba Skinny
Blue Nile Wil Blades, Herlin Riley
Buffa’s Alex McMurray
30/90 Daphne Parker Powell, The Andre Lovett Band
Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Bamboula’s Midnight Brawlers, Kat Kiley
BJs Deslondes, Jackson + the Kinks
Blue Nile Once A Dozen
Buffa’s Some Like It Hot!, The Pfister SIsters
Café Istanbul Current Futures
Carrollton Station Mahmoud Chouki
Chickie Wah Wah Zachary Richard, The Heavy Heavy
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Gasa Gasa ABtrio
Joy Theater Take Me To the River All-Stars
Maple Leaf Keiko Komacki, MLB All Stars
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Jon Cleary
No Dice Father
Polo Club David Boeddinghaus
Preservation Hall Leroy Jones, Will Smith
Republic Mountain Grass Unit, TBC Brass Band
Rock ‘n’ Bowl Pretty Krewe
Snug Harbor Steve Masakowski, Davell Crawford &
Company
Spotted Cat Treme Brass Band, Monty Banks
The Broadside Oteil Burbridge, Ivan Neville
The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
Three Maries BassX
Tipitina’s Tab Benoit, Dustin Dale Gaspard
MONDAY, APRIL 27
30/90 Dapper, Dandies, Gumbo Funk
Bacchanal Byron Asher
Bamboula’s Jon Roniger, Ted Hefko
Cafe Negril Mother Ruckus, Keep It Rolling
Carrollton Station Jeff Fest, Meryl Zimmerman
Chickie Wah Wah Benny and the Late Bloomers, Melt
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
D.B.A. Adam Deitch, Brad Miller
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Holy Diver Nellie McKay, DJ Reverend Robert Sinewave
Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown, Jackson’s Flying Circus
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
No Dice DEAD SUGAR
Polo Club John Royen
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
The Rabbit Hole Rebirth Brass Band
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20
Café Degas Gizinti Trio
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Gasa Gasa Cheerleader Roadkill, Awannabe
Irene’s Monty Banks
Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels
No Dice Cultus Black
Orpheum Theater The Firebird
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds
Polo Club John Royen
Saenger Theatre Alison Krauss, Union Station
Smoothie King Center The Queens
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band
Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry
FRIDAY, MAY 8
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Blue Nile Dj Jess
BJs Miss Martha, Rose Vaughn
Buffa’s T Marie Trio
Civic Theatre Sepultura
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Dragon’s Den Yung Dex
House of Blues Club 1BD
Irene’s Monty Banks
Le Bon Temps Roule Joey Houck
Maple Leaf Pollo Asado
Pirogue’s Paul Faith
Republic Level Up, Nitepunk
Rock ‘n’ Bowl Haul’n’Boats
Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band
The Howlin’ Wolf Oscillation Communications, Nick
360
Tipitina’s The Soul Rebels
SATURDAY, MAY 9
BJs Horace Trahan, T-Marie
Buffa’s Tim Robertson Trio
Cafe Negril Bon Bon Vivant
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Le Bon Temps Roule Jamie Bernstein, Zen Cowboys
New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market The Louisiana
Philharmonic Orchestra
Rock ‘n’ Bowl Beach Face Band
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds
Vaughan’s Corey Henry
FRIDAY, MAY 15
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Jenn Howard, Max Sanders
Le Bon Temps Roule Heavy Weather
Maple Leaf Dave Jordan
Rivershack Tavern Pontchartrain Wrecks Duo
Tipitina’s Big In The 90s
SATURDAY, MAY 16
ARORA SoDown
Chickie Wah Wah Jammy Buffet
Dew Drop Inn DC Paul
Gasa Gasa Yot Club
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Shotgun Jazz Band
Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato, Dave James
THURSDAY, MAY 21
Blue Nile DJ T-Roy
Chickie Wah Wah Mark Hummel
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Yot Club
Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels Peacock Room Da Lovebirds
Vaughan’s Corey Henry
The Queens at Smoothie King Center
The Queens is a supergroup composed of legends Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills. Together, the four icons are bringing a night of unforgettable vocals and music to NOLA’s Smoothie King Center.
Thursday, May 7, 8 p.m., $96.30 to $3,305.65, smoothiekingcenter.com
The White House / Wikimedia Commons
The Eagles and The Black Keys Headline Jazz Fest's Second Weekend RockTitans
// JEFF BOUDREAUX
Ladies and gentlemen, rock ‘n’ roll fans alike, this is what you have all been waiting for—the closing weekend of the 2026 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.
We were recently treated to performances by two living legends: Stevie Nicks and Rod Stewart. If you think it’s about to go downhill after that, then in the words of the immortal Judas Priest, “You’ve got another thing coming.”
Two very different rock bands are hitting the Fair Grounds. One consists of one of the greatest collections of musicians and songwriters in popular music history, and the other is two guys who just know how to rock. Are you ready?
On Friday, May 1, the Black Keys will bring their signature raw, blues-driven energy to Jazz Fest as an official leg of their “Peaches ‘n Kream” world tour. Formed in Akron, OH, in 2001 by guitarist/ vocalist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick
2013, thrilling concert goers with their dynamic mix of bluesy grit and rock swagger. Beyond this familiar stage, the duo has also performed in the city at local venues as disparate as Woldenberg Park and Saturn Bar, showcasing their affinity for our eclectic live music scene. Their past seven appearances here thus far have signaled respect for that heritage, all the while maintaining their signature bridge between indie rock and roots music that is celebrated all over New Orleans.
“New Kid in Town” dominated the charts, while the album itself went on to sell tens of millions of copies worldwide, cementing the band’s reputation as rock and roll icons of the highest order.
Carney, the duo quickly carved out a reputation for stripped-down, guitar-heavy rock inspired by classic blues and garage rock infused with a punk ethos. Their early years were marked by gritty, lo-fi recordings that earned them underground buzz, but it wasn’t until their 2010 album Brothers where they were catapulted into mainstream success, driven by the hit single “Tighten Up.”
That record won three Grammy Awards, including Best Alternative Music Album and Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group. Their 2011 follow-up, El Camino, was equally acclaimed and featured “Lonely Boy,” another Grammy-winning hit that pushed them into larger arenas and cemented their status as major figures in modern rock music.
From blues-drenched tracks including “Little Black Submarines” and “She’s Long Gone” to arena rock staples such as “Gold on the Ceiling,” the Black Keys have drawn equally from Muddy Waters and rock ‘n’ roll’s classic era while also carving out a space in mainstream rock culture, a balance that has earned them both critical acclaim and deep fan devotion. Through the 2010s and into the present day, the band has continued to evolve while maintaining their musical ancestry.
Turn Blue became their first album to hit number one on charts in the U.S., Canada, and even way “down under” in Australia. More recent releases such as Delta Kream and Dropout Boogie showcased both their songwriting chops and reverence for the Delta Blues, a lineage that resonates deeply within a legacy music hub such as New Orleans.
Most importantly for us, they aren’t strangers to the Big Easy. They previously played Jazz Fest in
With that being said, it’s time to kick it up a notch. Few bands have etched their names into the American musical landscape with as much permanence as the Eagles. Formed in Los Angeles in 1971, founders Glenn Frey (vocals/guitar) and Don Henley (drums) actually grew out of Linda Ronstadt’s backing band, soon adding Bernie Leadon (guitar) and Randy Meisner (bass). This lineup would carve out an identity rooted in country rock, soft melodies, and harmonically lush balladry. Their initial sound, featuring songs such as “Take It Easy,” “Witchy Woman,” and “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” helped define the early ’70s country rock scene, laying the groundwork for albums such as their self-titled debut in 1972, Desperado in 1973, and One of These Nights in 1975.
The band’s 1976 compilation, Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975), became the best-selling album in U.S. history, a transcendent achievement that underscores their enduring appeal. In case you missed it, that’s quadruple diamond—40x platinum—status. Who does that? The Eagles, that’s who. By the time Hotel California was released in late 1976, the Eagles were international superstars and in desperate need of a follow-up greatest hits compilation. Songs such as the title track and
Over the course of their long and storied career, they have sold hundreds of millions of records, garnered six Grammy Awards, and released countless chart-topping albums and singles. The current lineup, featuring Henley, Joe Walsh (who replaced Leadon in 1975), Timothy B. Schmidt (taking over for Meisner in 1977), former country superstar Vince Gill on guitar (who has replaced Don Felder, who wrote the music to “Hotel California,” including that double lead guitar solo), and secondgeneration Eagle Deacon Frey on vocals, are on the heels of a major residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, which lasted 58 performances. In fact, their appearance at Jazz Fest on Saturday, May 2 is particularly noteworthy because it marks their first performance outside of that bubble in nearly two years. While the band is quintessentially associated with the southern California rock scene, they do have a history in our great city. Prior appearances in town included the famed Warehouse in 1972, the legendary “Day of Rock & Roll” in 1980 at the Superdome, and six appearances since their 1994 reunion, including a 2012 appearance at Jazz Fest. Take heed that this is officially a part of their “Long Goodbye” farewell tour, so don’t let this chance pass you by.
There you have it, folks. Another Jazz fest will invariably come to a close, and we’ll be wondering who will grace the Acura and Shell Gentilly stages next year. Hopefully, we’ll get more music legends and gritty rock and rollers. Until then, see y’all at the festival.
From left: Andy Witchger / Wikimedia Commons; courtesy Warner Music Group
Mother's & Father's Day Gifts
An Experienced & Local Based Mother’s and Father’s Day Gift Guide
// FRANCES DEESE
Both being celebrated for over a hundred years, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day honors the family members who have helped shape us into who we are today.
With these celebrations, there can be a pressure to get the gifts you give to your parents just right. Yet when it comes to creative gift giving, often what resonates more over perfectly curated luxury are the heartfelt, meaningful touches. This year, take inspiration while shopping for presents from in town resources that offer welcoming new experiences. Experience-based gifts add value through built-in time together, offering a break from routine or a chance to try something that they wouldn’t splurge on themselves.
Plants as presents give the recipient a way to connect with nature, as well as something to look
forward to day after day. Set a date to plan a visit together to pick up a new floral or green friend at Pelican Greenhouse. They specialize in native plants, collecting from native territories in the New Orleans eco-region. In addition, they are well known for their old garden roses collection, which are just the right touch for this time of year. Their supportive team can answer questions and provide knowledge about best selections. Enjoy strolling through City Park, where they are located and with all proceeds supporting the park. Be sure to check the calendar for their opening dates or visit them at the Crescent City Farmer’s Market, as well.
With a sense of whimsy and antique charm, the designs of Lady Delaney make for a gift sure to invoke wonder. Having been inspired by her grandfather, who hand crafted dollhouse accessories for her and her family growing up, her pieces are an eclectic and welcome new take. Gifting options include DIY miniatures, mystery kits, and a whole gamut of dollhouse accessories. In addition, her vintage inspired flowergrams make for a perfect mailbox pick me up, with your message transforming into a beautiful telegram and including dried florals by Doris Ione. These offerings can make for a new hobby outlet or a welcome addition to a treasured dollhouse collection.
The benefits of yoga are robust for the mind and body, including its ability to rebalance the nervous system, increase freedom of motion, and relieve pain. Your giftee, however, may not carve out time for these essentials themselves. At Swan River Yoga, their focus on alignment yoga allows for both mind and body peace. Founded
and owned by a New Orleans native, they are also true to the city’s roots with their studio space being housed at a former public library that even includes a 1930s WPA mural. In addition to their yoga classes, wellness offerings such as meditation classes and sound baths can also support welcome relaxation.
Much more than a tasty treat, tea invites a mindful pause and respite from life’s busyness. Offering up high-quality brews since 1929, you can find options to suit all palettes at New Orleans Tea Company. Owner Jeanne Powers offers an additional way to enhance this idea by setting aside time for a tea party all together, which can come together with a few simple but elegant touches. It’ll create a lasting memory each time your parents reach for a new cup of tea.
Despite living so close to the water, many living in New Orleans may not often have the chance to get out and explore the waterways. Gift a paddle session with NOLA Paddleboards and set out on an adventure, including routes through Bayou St. John or Lake Pontchartrain, for exploration and laughs.
Offer kitchen inspiration by purchasing a cooking class for your loved one. The New Orleans School of Cooking has been open and serving up delights since 1980. Housed in a renovated molasses warehouse, enjoy NOLA ambiance while learning from cooking professionals. They offer several varieties of classes including hands-on classes, demo classes where you can “watch, learn, and eat” and also a happy hour mixology class.
With this being dubbed “the year of the analog,” we can also use this to inspire our gift giving. For your host or hostess parent, add to their collection by crafting a bundle of handwritten recipe cards. Papier
stationary and notecard designs to choose from, as well as journals if you want to add a nice book to house their collection. Compliment this by setting a date to cook together, adding another special memory of a shared meal.
Ignite your parent’s inner artist and let creative sparks fly by gifting them a class at New Orleans Glassworks and Printmaking. They can explore a new medium with classes including glassworks options, printmaking and book arts, metalsmithing and sculpture, and ceramics. With their short courses and seasonal mini workshops, these hands-on classes can accommodate all schedules for a fun learning experience.
If you’re feeling stuck about present options, a surefire solution is to think of a theme and build out a gift basket from it. With the season afoot for cookouts and seafood boils, a basket for your favorite chef would be welcome. Include some new spice blends, cash for the butcher or seafood counter, and a stop into Ladle and the Whisk for any new gadgets.
Gifting concert or theater tickets gives your recipient not only something to look forward to but also a great event you can enjoy together. Thankfully, New Orleans has no lack of great live entertainment. This also works well for a museum lover by giving them a membership for the year or tickets to a special exhibit they’d be sure to love.
From left: courtesy Lady Delaney; courtesy Swan River Yoga
Flowergram by Lady Delaney
Lady Delaney
Swan River Yoga
FLAVOR, DISH!
The Small but Mighty Greek Culture of New Orleans OpaNola!
From its earliest immigrants’ enduring impacts to hosting half a century of festivals, Greek culture is a bold blue Aegean Sea thread running through our vibrant New
New Orleans’ population boomed by 366 percent between 1830 and 1860. Irish, Germans, and Sicilians comprised the largest immigration waves. By 1850, only 150 Greeks were recorded in the New Orleans census; however, unlike other immigrants who arrived with little, many early Greek immigrants to New Orleans were part of an educated and funded
Prominent Greek families, such as
accelerated by the War of 1812 and later by the Greek War of Independence from 1821 to 1832. In New Orleans, Greek Revivalism inspired the creation of Lower Garden District streets named after the nine Greek Muses (Calliope, Clio, Erato, Thalia, et al); the naming of the earliest Mardi Gras krewes such as Comus (1857), Momus (1872), and Proteus (1882); and the building of notable architectural gems including the Buckner Mansion (1856), the Dabney House (1856), and Gallier Hall (1853).
While these architectural marvels and Mardi Gras krewes were being built by established “American” New Orleanians, Greek immigrants were arriving in New Orleans. Although Michel Dragon, the first
documented Greek in the city, arrived in New Orleans in the late 1700s, it was the small but substantial group of Greek immigrants who arrived in the mid1800s, in part due to the Greek War of Independence, who created two firsts in the Americas: one was the first Greek Orthodox Church in the Americas, and the other was the first consulate office for Greece— both between 1864-1866 and both spearheaded by Nicholas Benachi, a wealthy cotton merchant. Greek immigration continued for different reasons throughout the next century, especially following wars that brought economic hardships: World War I, the Balkan Wars, the TurkishGreco Wars, and World War II. The 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act prompted a resurgence in Greek immigration to New Orleans by abolishing discriminatory national origins quotas. The law prioritized family reunification, allowing Greek Americans in New Orleans to sponsor relatives, which strengthened the local Greek Orthodox community.
“Our Greek community, although rooted in the oldest Greek Orthodox Church in the Americas, has a very large group that immigrated in the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, creating a community with a very recent diaspora community. I feel very blessed to be a part of two of the most amazing places on Earth: New Orleans and Greece. I consider them both my home,” said Katerina Tsatsoulis Sutton, Parish Council and PTA, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Executive Committee for our Greek Festival New Orleans.
// AMY KIRK DUVOISIN
Diego
Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Gallier Hall
From the Founding of the Church to the Founding of a Festival
“The Greek community in New Orleans may be small in numbers, but it’s incredibly strong, active, and deeply connected—both within the church and throughout the broader city,” said Laura Labropulos Toras, Co-Chair, New Orleans Greek Festival 2026. “What stands out most to me is how intentional people are about preserving Greek traditions while also being fully invested in New Orleans life. There’s a real sense of responsibility to carry the culture forward but also a deep love for this city and its people.”
After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the change from Spanish/French Catholic rule to American control introduced religious freedom under the U.S. Constitution. This change made all the difference for the Greeks and other Orthodox groups, who until that point had conducted most baptisms, marriages, and funerals at St. Louis Cathedral.
Fundraising from the most notable and established New Orleans Greek families (Dragon, Dimitry, Benachi) and support from Orthodox communities in Turkey, Greece, and Herzegovina led to the purchase of land and the building of the first Greek Orthodox Church at 1222 N. Dorgenois St. in the Tremé neighborhood. In 1950, this original wooden structure was replaced by a brick cathedral. In 1976, the community purchased the current
CATERING OFFERED FOR ALL OCCASIONS
site on Bayou St. John at 1200 Allen Toussaint Blvd. In 1980, Holy Trinity moved into the Hellenic Cultural Center, and the gold-topped cathedral was dedicated in 1985.
The New Orleans Greek Festival began at the original Holy Trinity site in Tremé in 1973, purportedly inspired by the success of a baklava booth at Jazz Fest. What began as a small church event has grown to attract 20,000 attendees annually. Just as the church established and anchored the community in its early days, the celebration symbolizes the birth and ongoing legacy of Greek culture in New Orleans.
“The Greek Festival provides the opportunity to experience Greek cuisine, music, Orthodox liturgical practices, and to learn the rich history of our community while meeting community members who present the festival as they celebrate the sharing of their culture," noted Magdalene Spirros Maag, Chair, Holy Trinity Archives Committee. “This aspect of the festival reflects the Greek cultural value of philoxenia, love of strangers, which goes beyond casual hospitality and is a cornerstone of deep cultural values.”
This year’s festival theme, “Your Odyssey Begins Here,” bridges ancient and modern Greece, capturing the timeless spirit of a culture whose influence far exceeds its size—inviting us to embark on our own journey as it continues its vibrant odyssey in New Orleans.
Greek Fest
From Lafitte Frontlines
New Orleans Stories of Courage to the
// MICHELLE NICHOLSON
Long before formal medals existed, New Orleans had earned a reputation for stubborn defense. When the nation began officially recognizing valor, local names found their way into the record.
From pirates-turned-patriots to modern Marines, the arc of New Orleans military history shows a pattern repeated across generations: new battlefields, new weapons, and the same willingness to risk everything for the people beside you.
War of 1812: Before the Medals, the Myth
Long before medals or formal military honors, New Orleans made its reputation on an unlikely military leader—Jean Lafitte, the Barataria privateer whose knowledge of Gulf waters helped shape the city’s defining victory.
The War of 1812 placed New Orleans at the center of a high-stakes struggle. Control of the Mississippi meant control of commerce, and British forces aimed to seize the city in late 1814.
Recognizing Lafitte’s military value, British officers first approached him, hoping he would join their
campaign. Instead, Lafitte turned to Governor Claiborne, offering intelligence and the support of his gunners. His men were later folded into the American defense under Andrew Jackson.
At Chalmette in January 1815, Lafitte’s artillery helped break the British assault and secure one of America’s most significant early victories. The peace treaty had already been signed overseas, but the battle cemented New Orleans’ place in national history.
No medals existed yet to mark heroism, but in the story of New Orleans military valor, the tradition begins with Lafitte.
Civil War: When Honor Became Official
By the time the Civil War reached Louisiana, New Orleans was under Union control, and the fight for the Mississippi had become central to the conflict. The war also introduced a new idea—a national
Ben Franske / Wikimedia Commons
medal recognizing extraordinary courage.
One of the earliest recipients tied to the city was Jean J. Beaufort, a French immigrant who had made New Orleans his home before joining Union forces. During operations near Port Hudson, Beaufort led a small group into enemy territory to eliminate a Confederate signal station, disrupting communications and ultimately enabling the Union’s victory in the siege of Port Hudson.
Another New Orleans native, Navy sailor John Williams, proved his courage during a river engagement at Mathias Point in 1861. While evacuating soldiers under fire, Williams refused to pull away until every man reached the boat. Even after being wounded and losing the flagstaff to gunfire, he kept the colors raised until his crew reached safety.
Indian Wars: Service on a Distant Frontier
After the Civil War, military campaigns shifted westward into the conflicts known as the Indian Wars. Though fought far from Louisiana, they drew New Orleans soldiers into a changing national story.
Among the most notable was Moses Williams, born in Carrollton and who served with the Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th U.S. Cavalry. During an 1881 fight in the foothills of New Mexico’s Cuchillo Negro Mountains, Williams helped lead flanking attacks and rallied troops under heavy fire. As his unit withdrew, he exposed himself to enemy fire to help rescue soldiers who had been cut off.
Years later, supported by his commanding officer, Williams received the Medal of Honor for those actions, becoming the first Black Medal of Honor recipient connected to the New Orleans area and a reminder that local heroism extended far beyond the Gulf.
World
War
II:
A Global Stage
World War II pulled New Orleanians into battles stretching from Europe to the Pacific. Among them was James H. Diamond, a New Orleans native serving with Army forces in the Philippines.
During heavy fighting, Diamond repeatedly put himself in danger to keep his unit moving, charging enemy positions and helping evacuate wounded soldiers even after being injured himself. On a later mission to rescue trapped troops, he ran through intense fire to reach an abandoned machine gun, drawing enemy attention long enough for others to escape. He was later awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions.
Korea and Vietnam: The Long Road Forward
Just five years after World War II ended, American troops were again fighting overseas. The Korean War unfolded across harsh terrain and
shifting front lines, marking the beginning of the Cold War’s long military shadow.
New Orleans native Edward Rightor Schowalter Jr. earned the Medal of Honor while commanding Company A of the 31st Infantry Regiment during fighting near Kumhwa in October 1952. Though seriously wounded by a grenade and then gunfire, Schowalter refused medical aid and continued to direct assaults and steady his men until the objective was secured.
He continued serving with distinction during the Vietnam War, which brought a different style of combat shaped by helicopters, jungle patrols, and sudden moments of crisis. As a result, he was awarded the Silver Star.
Among the city’s most recognized Vietnam-era heroes was Raymond M. Clausen Jr., a Marine crew chief who repeatedly moved into danger during a rescue mission when Marines were trapped in a
mined area under enemy fire. Again and again, he crossed hazardous ground to bring the wounded out, saving lives through calm persistence rather than spectacle.
Across two very different wars, the common thread remained the same: ordinary men making extraordinary choices for the people beside them.
Memorial Day: What Remains
Memorial Day asks us to remember not just the names but also the pattern. Across centuries, the battlefields have changed, yet the choices at the center of these stories remained strikingly familiar. New Orleans has always been shaped by people willing to stand fast for others, whether or not medals followed. The wars move farther from home, but the legacy returns here, carried in stories, in memory, and in the names we still speak aloud.
FOODNEWS
// KIM RANJBAR
Neighborhood nosh . . . Among the first culinarians to graduate from New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute and kin of the Kupcake Factory owners, Laura Bueso recently partnered with her mother to launch Barrio Bites Mid-City. Located in the former Church Alley Coffee shop space on Canal Street, only a couple of blocks from the S. Carrollton intersection, the new bakery/café will obviously be the hub for Bueso’s stunning king cakes come 2027 (can you say “Dubai chocolate?”) but is fast becoming a go-to neighborhood pastry and coffee spot all year round. The family business not only offers her mom’s awardwinning cupcakes and specialty coffee drinks, but it also plays it savory with breakfast and lunch options. 4201 Canal St., @barriobitesmidcity
A familee affair . . . Famous Detroit food influencer Keith Lee is teaming up with Morrow Hospitality to host an inaugural food and music festival right here in New Orleans. Keith Lee’s Familee Day will take place at the UNO Lakefront Festival Grounds on Saturday, May 16 and will feature a wide array of performers from Grammy Award-winning musician Kirk Franklin and Tobe Nwigwe from Texas to YouTube kid’s show Gracie’s Corner. Many local musicians will also be taking the stage, such as Mannie Fresh, DJ Arie Spins, and LA Reezy. The festival will also include a food village “curated by Keith Lee” and featuring some of the “best restaurants in the city” with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free offerings.
UNO Lakefront Festival Grounds, famileeday.com
Full circle . . . Although Freret Street pizza destination Ancora shuttered in July last year, its replacement remains Garcia-esque. Adolfo Garcia Jr. is following in his father’s footsteps as a restaurateur with the recent launch of Dolfy’s, affectionately named, and conceptualized, in honor of dear old dad. A couple of years ago, Junior opened Korean fried chicken joint Chi-Chi’s in the former Windowsill Pies space with his wife Sophia Petrou, but his second restaurant hearkens to his past at Rio Mar. Open for nearly 15 years in the Warehouse District, Rio Mar was a hugely popular Spanish/Latin American-tapas restaurant and, as it so happens, where Junior pretty much grew up. Dolfy’s isn’t a reboot of Rio Mar—regardless of how badly we all want it to come back—but it is focused on regional Spanish cuisine with dishes such as dry-aged beef, pinchos or bread and cured meat bar snacks, “burnt” Basque cheesecakes, and seafood. 4508 Freret St., @dolfys_nola
Don’t be shellfish . . . Bubbly fans were bummed when French Quarter champagne bar and restaurant Effervescence closed over the summer, but there’s no need to fret. Brenna Sanders and Evan Ingram, the chefs who helmed the kitchen at Effervescence, have taken over the restaurant and renamed it The Crustacean Club. The duo’s focus is on Gulf seafood, and the menu reflects that with shellfish from other waters, as well. Plus, corks are still popping at the Rampart Street restaurant, so you can still eat your caviar wishes and sip on champagne dreams.
1036 N. Rampart St., thecrustaceanclub.com
Killer ‘cue . . . It begins early every Thursday and Friday morning—people lining up to get their Central Texas-style barbecue from Gonzo’s Smokehouse in Luling, LA. Located out on River Road, Gonzo’s has grown from a festival vendor to a part-time BBQ pick-up. Now, it has moved into its very own digs just a ways up the river. The juicy smoked brisket that make up their heady bowls of yaka-mein and smoke-alicious smash burgers are
the domain of Westbank-born and raised pitmaster Jason Gonzalez, whose hobby has become a GNOsensation. The new location next to German Coast Beer Co. keeps the same hours. With both indoor and outdoor seating, more folks can kick back while devouring their BBQ.
13899 River Rd., Luling, (504) 858-6241, @gonzossmokehouse
Late night lattes . . . Yemeni coffeehouses were one of the hottest industry trends last year, and it’s only taken the GNO a year or so to catch up. Thanks to the Middle Eastern community, our area— specifically, the Westbank—now boasts multiple Yemeni coffee shops with the recent opening of Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co. in Harvey, with Aden Aroma Yemeni Coffee and Port Coffee Co. also on the same street. The Michigan-born chain began as a coffee wholesaler by partners Hatem El-Eidaroos and Munif Maweri, who sought to support Yemeni farmers and sourcing conflict-free beans. Launched in 2021, the company now has over 25 franchises across the country. Located on Manhattan Boulevard near Target, Qamaria is not so much a café as it is an experience, serving uniquely-spiced specialty coffee drinks and pastries including khaliat nahal, aka honeycomb bread, and baklava cheesecake in an uber-clean and colorful space decorated with bright murals and scrolled arches; however, don’t expect it to be your new morning fix as Qamaria is open from 5 p.m. to midnight.
Bestest of the best . . . North America’s 50 Best Restaurants of 2026 will be counted down at a special awards ceremony right here in New Orleans on Thursday, May 28. The inaugural event for 50 Best began in Las Vegas last year, but we all know our city is the perfect host for such a gastronomic undertaking. In partnership with the New Orleans & Co., “the event will bring together chefs, restaurateurs, and industry leaders from across the region for a series of culinary events culminating in the live awards ceremony.”
Gonzo's Smokehouse
DININGGUIDE
AMERICAN
Anita’s Grill serves a Southern menu that’s been unchanged for over a hundred years since it was originally Jerry’s in 1922. Enjoy their breakfast with the pork & eggs, or stop by for lunch and order one of their po-boys. 833 Howard Ave., (504) 354-8979, anitasgrillnola.com
Bearcat Café is a breakfast and lunch eatery with a menu that is hearty and vegan friendly. The menu is split in two. The Good Cat has nutrition-forward meals, and the Bad Cat has heartier comfort foods. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com
Crescent City Steaks is a true NOLA institution. Opening their doors in 1934, this is the oldest steakhouse in Louisiana. Gather in their dining room or tuck away in the curtained booths and enjoy their acclaimed cuts sizzled in butter. 1001 N. Broad St, (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes Restaurant is a renowned Southern breakfast chain in New Orleans. They are famous for their all-day breakfasts featuring favorites such as the alligator omelet, chicken & waffles, and their awardwinning Bloody Mary, which can be bought by the bottle. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Desi Vega’s Steakhouse is a lively steakhouse in the CBD. Start your night off with one of their appetizers such as the crab cake or the steak bruschetta. Try their locally inspired cocktails or a wine from their premium selection. 628 St. Charles Ave., (504) 523-7600, desivegasteaks.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern offers a stylish dining experience. Its tavern-like dining room showcases a contemporary edge to its building in the Warehouse District. The menu offers classics such as the Bananas Foster waffle, po-boys, and seafood plates. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop combines steakhouse delicacies and seafood mainstays. With an array of shareables, small plates, and premium cut steaks; a curated list of sandwiches for lunch; and weekday specials, they are sure to satiate at any time of day. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 608-6082, legacykitchen.com
Luke is a lively brasserie in New Orleans. Their menu features a raw oyster bar and rich Creole dishes. Try their burger and the hot buttered crawfish bread. Luke keeps it fresh with their dedication to locally sourced ingredients. 333 St. Charles Ave., 504 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com
Moe’s Original BBQ brings Alabama-style barbecue to Metairie. Mentioned in several top 10 lists for BBQ, everything on their menu is prepared fresh daily. Stop by and try their pulled pork or smoked wings with cornbread. 1101 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 407-3533, moesoriginalbbq.com
New Orleans Vampire Café combines polished cuisine with spooky legends. Their menu offers highlights such as steak tartar, filet mignon, and blood orange crème brûlée. Pair your meal with a cocktail including the famous boozy blood bags. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
Rib Room has recently undergone an extensive remodel that amplifies its upscale setting. It’s known for its slow-roasted prime rib and traditional New Orleans cuisine. Patrons can enjoy a jazz brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, bolstering its classy atmosphere. 621 St. Louis St., (504) 529-7045, ribroomneworleans.com
Sala NOLA is perfect for brunch and dinner. Choose from a selection of hearty Benedicts and omelets. They serve small plates and local delicacies including Gulf fish amandine. Sip on their craft cocktails or order bottomless mimosas for weekend brunch. 124 Lake Marina Dr., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com
Studio Steakhouse & Bar, from the visionaries behind Doris Metropolitan and Tal’s Hummus, combines neighborhood charm with culinary excellence. Start your night with the lamb kabob, pair it with a lemondrop martini, and end it with the ginger crème brûlée 4734 Magazine St., (504) 5102791, studio-nola.com
Spudly’s Super Spuds has been serving Metairie since 1980. This family-friendly restaurant offers a “meal in a baked potato,” including the super duper, a baked potato medley loaded with seafood, cheeses, and seasonings. They also offer burgers and amazing appetizers. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com
Vacca Steakhouse is an upscale restaurant blending classic steakhouse plates with elevated seafood dishes. Their atmosphere is chic and intimate, ideal for date nights. Featured steaks include the center cut filet and cowboy ribeye. They also offer a happy hour. 3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 3183808, vaccasteakhouse.com
Rivershack Tavern serves a fresh, ingredient driven, comfort style menu with a smalltown flare. Visit them during special live music performances for their selection of local drafts, and try their garbage fries or their roast beef po-boy. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
The Vintage
The Vintage is a unique spot that brings a Parisian atmosphere to NOLA. They offer beignets ranging from traditional stylings to gravy smothered. Satiate your sweet tooth with one of their coffee cocktails or go savory with their small bites. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com
ITALIAN
Mosca’s Restaurant has been serving their familystyle, Italian menu to the people of Westwego for nearly a century. Their history is preserved in the garlic stained, wood-paneled interior. Patrons love their oysters Mosca, chicken a la grande, and spaghetti bordelaise. 4137 US-90, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Pizza Domenica, a sibling to the restaurant Domenica, is a Neapolitan-style pizzeria. The atmosphere there is casual and lively. They offer perfectly tossed gourmet pizzas in a wood-fired oven. Compliment your pie with one of their refreshing cocktails. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
U Pizza, just steps from the St. Charles streetcar line, is a pizzeria with easy access for commuting locals and those exploring the city. They offer gourmet pizza with local fare such as the streetcar pizza and the Garden District. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com
Venezia is a home-style Italian restaurant that has been serving locals since 1957. The atmosphere is laid-back with table dining fit for their generous portions. Try the incredible eggplant Vatican, their hearty lasagna, and the house special pizzas. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com
LATIN
Empanola, owned by Jimena Urrutia and her husband Marcelo Garcia, showcases their passion in the kitchen and love for New Orleans. They have dozens of different empanada fillings to try including gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and Asian dumpling. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
MIDDLE EASTERN
Vampire Apothecary is casual dining with a vampiric twist. Their menu features unique plates, desserts, and themed cocktails. Beyond the vampiric cocktails and to-die-for dishes, they offer special made teas that are artfully tinned and sold in their shop. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com
ASIAN
Mikimoto Restaurant serves Japanese cuisine with a Louisiana touch. This can’t miss menu is a staple of sushi in Uptown. Dine-in for a casual but intimate experience, featuring a traditional sushi bar, or order takeout from their drive-through window. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com
Thai’d Up was voted best Thai restaurant by Where Y’at’s readers in 2025. Try their coconut shrimp and sweet chili sauce. Whether dining in or taking out, Thai’d Up provides the same flavorful experience to every patron who visits. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co
BARS WITH GREAT FOOD
JB’s Fuel Dock is a dockside pizzeria with a view. Its open kitchen caters a welcoming atmosphere for friends and families. They offer bar side, dining room, and dockside service. Pair their pizza with a glass of wine. 128 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com
CAFÉS
Café Amelie is a gem known for its lush courtyard. Try their Cajun poutine and Gulf shrimp & grits for brunch or the braised short rib for dinner. It is a great place to slow down and enjoy the French Quarter. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com
Prince Tea House is a charming spot that uniquely blends European and Asian techniques. The business imports premium tea from France, offering a high class experience. Pair your tea with one of Prince Tea House’s handmade desserts such as the strawberry matchamisu. 3012 N. Arnoult Rd. Ste. B, Metairie, (504) 330-0360, princeteahousenola.com
Willa Jean celebrates its Southern roots with an elevated and creative touch. They offer a variety of mouth-watering dishes all day, such as the fried chicken & Tabasco honey biscuit. Check out their pastry counter for freshly baked goods. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
CARIBBEAN
Jamaican Jerk House offers authentic, bold, and aromatic flavors. Patrons love their tender oxtails, curry shrimp and chicken, and jerk chicken. Committed to authenticity, they use traditional recipes and fresh ingredients to bring true Caribbean cuisine to New Orleans. Multiple Locations, jamaicanjerkhouse.com
Lebanon’s Café is a Middle Eastern restaurant that, for over 20 years, has been dedicated to serving a creative menu with welcoming hospitality. Try the fried cauliflower and pomegranate hummus, their baba ganoush, and deliciously fresh za’atar bread. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Mona’s Café is a beloved Mediterranean restaurant and market. Their menu offers gyros, chicken shawarma, and lula kebabs. Mona’s market is the perfect place to buy imported ingredients. The restaurant recently underwent renovations but maintains its welcoming, neighborhood feel. 3901 Banks St., (504) 482-7743, facebook.com/monasnola
Shaya is an award-winning, modern Levantine restaurant. They offer warm and fresh wood-fired pita bread, hearty platters, and a spread of vegetableforward dishes. Whatever you order, be sure to pair it with a cocktail and enjoy their friendly neighborhood ambiance. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
Tal's Hummus is a quick-service Mediterranean restaurant in Uptown. They offer a fresh and healthy selection such as their arayes, pita sabich, and falafel. Stop by for an authentic bite, and try their frozen mint lemonade. 4800 Magazine St., (504) 267-7357, talshummus.com
is a lively restaurant and bar situated near Lake Pontchartrain. It is a favored casual dine-in
with a sports-friendly bar. They offer delicious salads, po-boys, and burgers. Try their pork belly burnt ends with a root beer glaze. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
Lil’ Dizzy’s Café is operated by the renowned Baquet family and serves amazing Creole soul food. In addition to po-boys and other Southern classics, the restaurant offers great tasting fried chicken. Visit Lil’ Dizzy’s website to see their weekly specials. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines is a local confectionery spot founded in the ‘80s by the late Loretta S. Harrison, building on generations of family recipes. Loretta’s famous pralines rose in popularity when they became a vendor at Jazz Fest. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines. com
Lyons Corner offers morning coffee, evening cocktails, and delicious plates. Their dining room has an urban-chic design, and their menu reflects contemporary twists by offering Creole fixings with thoughtful craftsmanship. Try the maple glazed pork belly or the flounder Pontchartrain. 537 Gravier St., (504) 576-9721, lyonscornernola.com
Mandina’s Restaurant offers Creole-Italian flair. Try their crab fingers with white wine sauce or taste their legendary turtle soup. They offer famously large portions, so make sure to come hungry, and keep an eye out for their
Mother’s Restaurant is one of NOLA’s most longstanding and beloved eateries. The menu offers classic all-day breakfast items including Mae’s omelet, Mother’s famous buttermilk biscuits, and more. Traditional Louisiana fixings such as jambalaya and red beans & rice are also available. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
New Orleans Creole Cookery offers quality Creole dishes in the French Quarter. A mix of white tablecloth and courtyard ambiances, the eatery’s menu offers local favorites including redfish almondine and jambalaya. They have a happy hour weekdays with special pricing for raw and chargrilled oysters. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow’s Creole Café is owned by Tanya Dubuclet, who based the menu on family recipes. The atmosphere mirrors its origins—lively yet cozy. Their menu includes red beans & rice, filé gumbo, mouth-watering Southern fried chicken, and celebrated chargrilled oysters. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neyows.com
Neyow’s XL, next door to Neyow’s Café, is an upscale take on the original concept. This restaurant utilizes black tablecloth and dark leather seating to compliment the luxurious menu, which features a premium selection of steaks and seafood. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
Lil' Dizzy's Café
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro offer Southern fare with a contemporary spin. Their menu boasts fine fare with a relaxed atmosphere. Try their scallops over pecan rice and follow that up with the roasted duck breast. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parasol’s is a beloved dive bar in the Irish Channel that offers good eats and friendly service. Their kitchen serves easy to love comfort foods such as onion rings and crawfish bites, as well as a tasty list of po-boys. 2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ ParasolsNOLA
Parkway Bakery and Tavern is one of NOLA’s iconic establishments. The restaurant has a lively neighborhood feel with largely outdoor seating. Try the roast beef with gravy poor boy or get the James Brown, a roast beef with fried shrimp. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com
Please U Restaurant is a time-tested, Louisiana-style diner. It opened in 1947 and has since cemented itself as a true classic. This booth and counter spot serves all day breakfast alongside an extensive list of po-boys and plates. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Restaurant Rebirth sets itself apart by being the Warehouse District’s only spot for farm-to-table CajunCreole cuisine. The kitchen is run by Louisiana native Chef Ricky Cheramie. Their menu features blackened scallops, chicken and mirliton Rochambeau, and double-cut Cheshire pork shop. 857 Fulton St., (504) 522-6863, restaurantrebirth.com
Short Stop Poboys is a popular counter-service poboy spot. They offer over 30 delicious varieties of poboys, spanning from six to 14 inches. They also serve tasty potato salad and more. Beat the lunch line, and bring the whole family. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
Willie Mae’s NOLA is a true staple. Family-owned since 1957, the business is a James Beard award recipient and offers “America’s Best Fried Chicken.” The restaurant’s popularity continues to grow, so be sure to give them a visit. 898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com
SEAFOOD
Bon Temps Boulet’s Seafood is a seasonally operated seafood restaurant with award winning crawfish. This crawfish season, stop by the family friendly spot and order the “blue daddy” platter, which is a mix of crawfish and blue crab. 4701 Airline Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-5003, bontempsboulets.com
Briquette is known for their elevated seafood menu. Try their Louisiana redfish on the half shell or their oysters Bienville en casserole. Briquette’s open kitchen features an 18-foot display of whole fish, speaking to their promise of fresh seafood. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 547-6330, briquette-nola.com
Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant is famous for their “Bucktown-style” seasoned boiled seafood. Deanie’s boils became so beloved, it now hosts two locations in the Greater New Orleans area. They also offer an array of stews, platters, and differently-prepared oysters. Multiple Locations, deanies.com
Delacroix is an elevated ode to the historic fishing community of the same name outside of New Orleans. Visit and try their Cajun pistolettes or Momma’s drum almandine. This restaurant’s river-blue interior is reminiscent of its bayou roots. 1 Poydras St. Spc. 1005, (504) 655-9002, delacroixrestaurant.com
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant began in Metairie in the late ‘60s, but it was in 1993 when Tommy Cvitanovich invented charbroiled oysters. Patrons will find they upkeep the same stylings and quality that sky-rocketed them to fame decades ago. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com
Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, founded in the French Quarter in 1940, is known for its fresh raw and charbroiled oysters, lively atmosphere, and its authentic Cajun-Creole seafood dishes. Famously, patrons can see the oysters shucked right at the bar. Multiple Locations, felixs.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox is a polished, casual seafood restaurant and oyster bar. Tacklebox offers daily brunch and the CBD lunch, a quick and easy selection for those on their lunch breaks. Head over for dinner and order their grilled fish. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
The Blue Crab Restaurant & Bar serves fresh seafood with a view. This rustic lakeside spot is designed after the raised houses on the bayou. Enjoy oysters on the half-shell, seafood gumbo, whole stuffed flounder, and much more. 7900 Lakeshore Dr., (504) 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com
The Galley Seafood is a neighborhood-style spot with a seafood focused menu. Try their boiled crawfish or slurp down on fresh oysters. Their softshell crab po-boy comes highly recommended, so bring your friends and enjoy their draft beers. 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955
The Blue Crab
Courtesy The Blue Crab
C'est
Vintage Festivals in New Orleans Chic
Vintage is so hot right now.
People are seeking to turn back the clock, longing to tap into that feeling of being more present. Some vintage-indulgers never knew this feeling due to having been born into the digital age: the moment they were born was being posted on Facebook, they’re going to class virtually, and/or they never know what it’s like to click through TV channels.
The Louisiana Vintage Festival held its inaugural event at House of Blues in August 2025, and it was a smashing success. The rooms of the venue/restaurant were filled with clothing, toys, and knick knacks that eager people combed through. This event was organized by vintage store owner Chris Olsen, who felt the allure of vintage his entire life.
“My parents would always take us antiquing.
There’s something about looking through those old stores, trying to find a piece that you’re looking for, that always felt like a treasure hunt,” Olsen said. “Later, my dad started a company restoring antiques. He would sometimes have priceless artifacts hanging around our house that people had purchased for often more money than our house was worth.”
industry advertising took a hit, so he took his side business full time. “We have two stores. One is called Vice & Graft, where we sell things that are basically from the 1970s all the way back to the Victorian era. Our other store, Swamp Rags, definitely caters more to the younger demographic. It’s mostly ‘80s and ‘90s T-shirts and denim, and that is heavily in the Gen Z range, but it’s just as popular, if not more so, with even younger kids. My kids, who are 10 and 11, really only wear vintage or vintage-inspired items, and that’s the same for all of their friends.”
Olsen collected and sold vintage items as a hobby until the pandemic. His day job of hospitality
Old, worn T-shirts aren’t just a fashion statement. It’s a stand against creating waste. Olsen explained, “There’s a huge segment of the market right now that really loves the sustainability of vintage and often are buying vintage as a deliberate pushback against the fast fashion trend of the previous years. People now want clothing again that will last them for a generation or that has already been used and loved. They want to be able to see that wear, that patina, that love, in the clothing that they wear.”
Louisiana Vintage Fest sold out its first event with 2,000 attendees. The second edition will cater to 5,000 attendees with double the amount of vendors over two days in August. Olsen continued, “I think that this speaks to why retail stores in the vintage world can be successful today, even with the proliferation of online shopping. People want to feel a garment, they want to hold it in their hands, they want that experience of trying something on. There’s something in that hunt,
in the satisfaction of finding it, and, of course, in the nostalgia of what once was.”
Another con that delves into nostalgia is the Louisiana Retro Con growth in a short time, a testament to the surge in popularity of vintage. The conventions have been able to add celebrity appearances, costume contests, freeplay gaming areas, and Q&A panels in between the many vendors. “I’ve noticed a lot of people come searching specifically for video games, and, a lot of times, you’ll notice Nintendo titles from the different generations in people’s shopping bags,” noted Davey Lusco. “It’s nice to see the fans that come in looking for Sega products. We also have one of the biggest fan bases in the area for Pokémon specifically to hunt down that specific trading card to add to their collection or looking for that specific title in the series’ respective video game franchise.”
on Lusco, now the director of the Louisiana Retro Con with Morgan City and Gonzales events. “I can still remember playing a they used to sell at retail stores in the very early 2000s on a giant RCA television that had the speakers at the bottom. My very first console was the Nintendo GameCube, and my first-ever handheld device was a GameBoy Advance SP,” Lusco recounted. “The very young version of me would end up never selling several of the games played on these consoles from my childhood, and, eventually, I continued to collect even further. I now own over 3,000 video games for multiple different game systems, spanning across the ages before us up into the present-day selections.”
many comic book conventions seeking video games, but he felt the selection was lacking. In 2022, Lusco planned to create a proper retro-item
This drive for gaming led Lusco to attend
Between big events, you can go back to the past at Ms. Claudia’s, Funky Monkey, Junk’s Above, Century Girl Vintage, Mad Liberation Vintage, bdffrnt Vintage, 90’s Kid Closet, Old Kids on the Block, Glue, and Slow Down with Future Shock Video rental store inside. Happy hunting.
// EMILY HINGLE
BARGUIDE
BAMBOULA'S
516 Frenchmen St. (504) 451-7306
BOOT SCOOTIN’ RODEO
522 Bourbon St. (504) 552-2510
BOURBON STREET HONKY TONK 727 Bourbon St. (504) 523-1960
CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE 527 Decatur St. (504) 522-0571
Providing live music every day, Bamboula's is the perfect place on Frenchmen Street. Try their Oyster Shooter with one raw oyster, vodka, and spicy Bloody Mary Mix.
Boot Scootin' is a lively country bar offering line dancing, a mechanical bull, and games. Enjoy a full bar with beers and specialty drinks for a fun-filled Southern night.
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk blends blues and country vibes. It offers signature cocktails including the Hand Grenade and Pirate’s Passion, plus some of the best live performances in the Quarter.
For nightly live music and quality craft beer, be sure to visit Crescent City Brewhouse. The microbrewery also offers tasty Louisiana favorites such as oysters and fried alligator.
JB's Fuel Dock overlooks Lake Pontchartrain and is a former fuel dock turned waterfront bar, offering cocktails, beers, seltzers, and wines. It’s an inviting spot to enjoy stunning lakeside views.
Le Bon Temps Roule has been a staple since 1979. This 24-hour bar features live music, signature cocktails, and more. It’s perfect for late-night drinks or a game of pool.
Lots a Luck Tavern is a hidden dive bar gem near City Park featuring a backyard courtyard and games. With affordable drinks and a lively crowd, it’s a must-visit.
Martine's Lounge is a true Old Metairie gem, boasting a laid-back charm that welcomes both regulars and newcomers alike with low prices, a new pool table, and friendly vibes.
Mélange sets itself apart by being a cool bar that is completely alcohol free. The spot above Bamboula’s offers NA alternatives, THC beverages, and more.
Pal's Lounge is open daily and offers a relaxed NOLA-style atmosphere with heavy pours, classic games, and occasional food trucks—perfect for a nightcap or pregame drink.
Parasol's is famous for its po-boys and is a beloved neighborhood dive bar offering diverse beers and cocktails. Try their Frozen Irish Coffee and homemade onion rings.
Rick's Cabaret offers a full wine and beer selection, plus VIP cocktails including Mile High Gin and Unrigged Tequila, making it the ideal place for bachelor or bachelorette celebrations.
Rivershack Tavern is a mix of a neighborhood tavern, live music club, sports bar, and a restaurant. It offers great burgers and po-boys, a vast beer selection, a wine list, and more.
Saddle Bar is a country-themed bar in the Quarter featuring two floors of cocktails and throwback shots, perfect for riding the mechanical rooster or showing off your line-dancing skills.
Sala NOLA offers modern American food right near Lake Pontchartrain. Visit during their happy hour on Tuesday through Thursday for a craft cocktail such as their pineapple cilantro margarita.
Sazerac House is a historic museum that offers insight into the traditions and culture of the Sazerac cocktail. After wandering through their distillery, make sure to grab a classic Sazerac.
The Boondock Saint is a cozy Irish-style pub that offers a wide selection of draft beers and an old-school jukebox, making it perfect for a relaxed and authentic NOLA experience.
This Irish Channel gem serves perfectly poured Guinness and excellent bar food. A favorite hangout for locals, don’t miss The Channel’s lively St. Patrick’s Day block party celebration.
The Jazz Playhouse is one of the city’s top jazz clubs. This hotspot in the Royal Sonesta offers jazz-inspired cocktails, flavorful entrées, and a rotating lineup of world-class artists.
The Metropolitan is a two-story club with multiple full bars, VIP bottle service, and trendy DJ sets. They offer a calendar of events, so visit their website to see upcoming performances.
The Original Nite Cap is a Seventh Ward entertainment bar featuring live music and burlesque. Sip unique cocktails such as the Mora Nera or Bel Signore.
The Vintage, located on Magazine Street, serves coffee, beignets, wines, and bubbles, as well as coffee cocktails, local beers, and pre-Prohibition classics—perfect for daytime treats or evening indulgences.
Three Maries Jazz Club, located in the Omni Royal, is perfect for people looking for late-night tunes. The club offers snacks and decedent cocktails such as the Caviar and Champagne.
Tropical Isle is famous for its iconic Hand Grenade and lively French Quarter bar atmosphere. They serve frozen and classic cocktails, making it the perfect starting point for exploring New Orleans.
Where to Sip on Cinco de Mayo in the Big Easy Mezcal OverMargaritas
// ARIELLE
GONZALES
Cinco de Mayo in New
Orleans warrants more than weakened drinks and plastic sombreros.
This city values authenticity, culture, and flavor with a story, qualities embodied by Latin America, with some influences from the Caribbean and the Spanish, especially in restaurants influencing today’s cocktail scene. Here you can find eight extraordinary spots around New Orleans, each serving a margarita that is not only tasty but also uniquely one-of-a-kind. These unique cocktails are crafted with skill, creative twists, and flavorful roots, elevating the enjoyment of the holiday experience.
While this is our unique list, check out other spots that are around the city, whether you prefer a meal-infused sip, a fruity twist, or a spicy note that hits all the right notes, for a festive experience.
Mr. Tequila
Address: 5018 Freret St.
Drink: Rosé Rita
Ingredients: Classic Margarita and Martini & Rossi Sparkling Rosé
Mr. Tequila’s Rosé Rita leans into a softer blend of sparkle that feels playful without losing its edge. Built on Cazadores Reposado and fresh limes, it gets its blush from a simple sparkling pour of rosé, with a touch of martini flavor. It’s bright but not too loud and sweet without tipping over, which makes all these flavors contrast perfectly. You taste the balance in every sip, with a little elegance folded in. The kind of margarita is a festive, flirtatious, and easy-to-love cocktail that any typical martini or rosé drinker would enjoy on a cool spring afternoon in Uptown.
Galaxie
Address: 3060 St. Claude Ave.
Drink: Galaxie 5000 Margarita
Ingredients: Don Abraham Blanco Tequila, Orange Liqueur, Lime, Agave
A staple in the Bywater, Galaxie provides a refreshing, well-balanced, and deceptively simple cocktail. Don Abraham Blanco provides a smooth, vegetal foundation, and the orange liqueur and agave add a rich undercurrent without overpowering the citrus. As you would expect, it’s a wonderfully uncomplicated margarita, as if it just appeared out of nowhere, though, of course, as always, it really didn’t. Along with Galaxie’s retro garage and their patio, it’s a cocktail that fits in just right.
Mr. Tequila
Sydni Sanders
Mayas
Address: 2027 Magazine St.
Drink: The Spicy Watermelon
Ingredients: Painted Donkey Watermelon Tequila, Lemon Juice, and House-Made WatermelonBlueberry-Jalapeño Mix topped with Tres Agaves Organic Margarita Mix
At Mayas, one of the city’s unique margaritas is served—a drink that is fruity, spicy, and interesting without ever overwhelming bold flavors. It starts with Painted Donkey watermelon tequila, adds an interesting dimension with its house mixture of watermelon, blueberry, and jalapeño, adds lemon juice to keep things bright, and adds depth with Tres Agaves. It’s a drink with a refresher up front and
a spice kick afterwards, which suits Mayas’ Nuevo Latino-style menu.
La Cocinita
Address: 4920 Prytania St.
Drink: Jalapeño–Cucumber–Mint Margarita
Ingredients: House-Infused Jalapeño Tequila, Fresh Lime Juice, Elderflower Liqueur, House Infused Mint Simple Syrup, Muddled Cucumber, Fresh Mint, Cucumber, and Jalapeño Garnishes
A Venezuelan version of a margarita is not only a unique twist but also a specialty of flavors. La
Cocinita’s jalapeño-infused tequila makes the drink spicy, but the cucumber and mint syrup mellow down the heat. The addition of elderflower liqueur makes the cocktail elegant and unexpected. The drink is garnished with fresh ingredients and is a refreshing change from the usual spicy margarita. This drink is a winner for those who want complexity in a drink without losing the authentic significance of a margarita cocktail.
The Velvet Cactus Address: 6300 Argonne St. Drink: Cucumber Orange Margarita
Ingredients: Fresh Muddled Cucumber, Fresh Orange, and House-Made Cactus Original Margarita Base
Velvet Cactus is known for its colorful, creative margaritas, but their cucumber orange margarita is the one that truly stands apart. Fresh cucumber keeps it cool and clean, while orange adds a burst of brightness that feels tailor-made for warm weather. Built on their signature cactus original base, this drink is refreshing, citrus-forward, and just different enough to feel special. It’s the kind of margarita that sneaks up on you for being simple at first glance but unforgettable once you’ve had it.
Bésame
Address: 110 S. Rampart St. Drink: Margarita Picante
Ingredients: Patrón Tequila, St. Germain, Habanero, Lime
Bésame’s Margarita Picante, made with Patrón, St. Germain, lime juice, habanero, and agave syrup, is a floral, spicy, and bold masterpiece. Patrón serves as the foundation, but the addition of St. Germain puts this cocktail a cut above the rest. The liqueur provides a subtle sweetness, which rounds off the
spiciness of the habanero perfectly. The lime keeps things balanced, resulting in a spicy yet sophisticated margarita.
La Carreta on Magazine Street
Address: 1814 Magazine St.
Drink: Champagne Disaster
Ingredients: House-Made Frozen Margarita Mix with a glass with sugar or salt around the rim with a choice of a mini bottle of Champagne in a large bowl
La Carreta’s Magazine Street location brings a playful colorful twist to the margarita with the Champagne Disaster—a frozen margarita crowned with a mini bottle of champagne to match the Instagram-aesthetic atmosphere. As the bubbles slowly mix into the drink, the flavor grows from tart and icy to bold and bright. It matches the vibe of how dramatic, fun, and undeniably chaotic New Orleans is. For those who prefer beer over bubbles, the Mexican Disaster swaps champagne for a mini beer, but the champagne version is the true showstopper.
Espíritu
Address: 520 Capdeville St.
Drink: Fresa Margarita
Ingredients: Fresh Local Strawberries, Lime, Mezcal, Basil Salt
At this breezy, bohemian, Mexican-style restaurant, Espíritu’s margarita is a true love letter to mezcal with traditional roots in flavors and with the spirits in mind. Fresh local strawberries bring natural sweetness, the lime adds acidity, and the mezcal ties everything together with a smoky backbone. The basil salt rim is the final touch for an herbal, aromatic, and unexpected flair. It’s one of the most thoughtfully crafted margaritas in the city and a perfect example of Espíritu’s commitment to honoring spirits with creativity and respect.
Galaxie
La Cocinita
TALES FROM THE FRENCH QUARTER
A Rhythmic Reunion
Sitting here at my desk and keyboard, I’m itching with Jazz Fest anticipation. It’s February and still chilly here in New Orleans as I write my love letters to the fest. You might have read “Week One” of my columns celebrating this magical event, and, once again, I welcome you to share with me the music of this festival.
Meeting my deadline for the magazine requires putting myself into the festing mindset months in advance—and that’s okay. This writing gig is my personal pep rally for Jazz Fest. Every year, it gets me revved up and ready to shake, shimmy, and fill my ears with music. Thanks to the tunes from my radio, always set to 90.7 FM, I am gyrating in my chair. Last issue, I reminisced and relived the music of decades of my Jazz Fest audience participation. Now, I want to share with you my fest rituals and the people who make it special. I adhere to my routine with a fervent dedication just as a Saints fan might embrace their “lucky” superstitions and rituals before, during, a game. I get it. I had my lucky bra and Saints shirt.
For me, Jazz Fest is more than music, food, and crafts. It’s an annual reunion that I attend. My reunion is not exclusively with people; it also embraces paying homage to various tents and spots along the way. Even waiting in line to get in is a reunion of “the process of entering this magical portal.” After going through the usual check points including ticket purchases at box office for Locals’ Thursday Discount Tickets—the other tickets were purchased
FILM REVIEWS
well in advance—and baggage check-in—tote bag, bottle of water, and cushions for my boney-gone-ass seating comfort—I get to thank the volunteers as they take my ticket. All of this is a reunion of festing routines that I love. And, of course, I meet folks in line and enjoy their joy.
Upon entering, I pay my respects to the Gospel Tent, then hang a left and take the best short-cut through the Blues Tent while promising to return often, and then weave around Contemporary Crafts to see who I might know who’s vending this year. After that, a “people reunion” with the ladies selling water and soft drinks, and a quick tight hug and kiss with Reggie the ladies' restroom attendant and a pre-tip to jump-start her tip jar. More on this wonderful woman later. Now I must
get to the Jazz Tent, my homebase, find my favorite aisle and seat, deposit my belongings, and enjoy the first set.
The opening set in the Jazz Tent is always a college or high school jazz band. They’re always top notch, and they’re the standard-bears of jazz to come. As soon as this set is over, I begin locating my buddies whom I share this tent with year after year. I usually start with Roy, my friend who travels here almost every year. Like myself, he sits in the same seat every time. He missed last year, so as soon as he returns, there’ll be extra hugs. Note to Roy: If you can’t grace the fest in person this year, I know damn well you’ll be listening to WWOZ broadcasting live to the world from the fest.
Gotta go now and practice smiling like I ain’t got a lick of sense, clapping til my arms a burnin’, and, when the music calls for it, shakin’ my saggy booty. I’m warming up for fest time.
About this time, usually during the opening set or soon thereafter, Rochelle and her friends will arrive. We share the same row of seats. This is how we met some years ago. Her dearest friend, Cathy, would be with her, and Cathy would sit next to me. She became my Jazz Fest “wife” as she was lovingly nicknamed by my husband, Philipe. One
year between fests, she ceased to respond to my emails, and I had a sinking feeling; therefore, when Rochelle arrived without her that one year, we just looked at each other as the tears commenced. She’ll always be seated in spirit next to us. Now, every afternoon there, Philipe and I share beignets and sprinkle a little powdered sugar on the ground in honor of her. She loved those messy pastries.
There are Jazz Tent friends such as Ellen and Randy, also those wonderful folks I know by face but not by name, that I can count on to see every year. I watch festers with a baby bump one year and then, soon, their kids will be in tow—a new generation of Jazz Festers that I will watch grow up before my eyes. Each year, I see the changes that time brings—our hair grays, thins, and our weights fluctuate. One year, you see that regular woman whose name you forgot wearing the chemo scarf and looking pale and thin. You worry until next year and then—drum roll and joy—she dances her way to her seat with curly hair and a glow. Some regulars simply stop coming as age gets the better of their mobility to groove and glide through the Fair Grounds. Some, like my darling friend Curtis, whom I met and became fast friends with decades ago in this tent, still shares—via phone calls—his love of jazz. I will ship him some Jazz Tent CDs this year.
I promised more about Reggie, the restroom goddess. Her Aunt Mo taught her the ropes. Like her, Reggie knows the art of meeting and greeting folks and how to maintain the cleanest restroom trailer at the fest. She is always there with a hug for me and photos of Mo and her family. She is also kind enough to text with me during the year.
// FRITZ ESKER + DAVID VICARI
Over Your Dead Body Normal
An unsuccessful commercial director (Jason Segel) and his struggling actress wife (Samara Weaving) leave for a weekend getaway in a forest cabin, but both have plans to murder the other in the new dark comedy Over Your Dead Body
In director Jorma Taccone’s remake of the 2021 Norwegian film The Trip the unhappy couple have let years of slights, infidelities, and financial mistakes curdle into plans for murder. They’re in crushing debt, so even a divorce wouldn’t fully rid them of each other. Their plans go wrong, and they’re surprised to find two escaped murderers (Timothy Olyphant and Keith Jardine) and the guard who helped them escape (Juliette Lewis) hiding in their attic. Husband and wife must again unite to survive the danger.
though the film is not particularly long at 105 minutes, the second half feels protracted. It doesn’t entirely lose its sense of humor, but the endless parade of action scenes featuring repulsive, over-thetop gore is wearying.
Over Your Dead Body is at its best in its first half when Segel and Weaving are unleashing accumulated resentments on each other. Even
Speaking of that gore, Over Your Dead Body is absolutely not for the faint of heart. It’s a film for people who looked at Robocop and thought it chickened out on the gruesomeness. It used to be that the defense of extreme gore was that it was transgressive, edgy, and envelope-pushing; however, in an era where it feels like 75% of R-rated movies feature it, even prestige dramas like The Secret Agent, it’s not daring. It’s mundane. There is one bit of violence/gore involving a knife block in a kitchen that is imaginative and funny, but a lot of it here is purely gratuitous and adds nothing to the proceedings.
That said, Segel and Weaving both deserve praise for their performances. They make the audience still care about them even though they’re would-be murderers. That’s not an easy thing to do. Over Your Dead Body is at its best when it just focuses on them.
— Fritz Esker
Actor Bob Odenkirk became an unlikely action hero in Nobody and its sequel, Nobody 2. Because of the modest success of those movies, we now have Normal, a truly terrible action-comedy.
Odenkirk plays Sheriff Ulysses, an interim sheriff in the small town of Normal, MN, following the death of the previous lawman. The residents of the town, including the mayor (Henry Winkler), seem harmlessly quirky, but that all changes during a bank robbery when they all turn against the new substitute sheriff. In the bank, Ulysses discovers a huge stash of gold bars and militarygrade firepower, which is all tied to the yakuza. Ulysses and the two out-of-town back robbers (Reena Jolly and Brendan Fletcher) must blast their way out of there if they want to live.
The screenplay by Nobody and John Wick scribe Derek Kolstad is clumsy in both its set up and revelations. When we first see the cache of
weapons, it is brushed off in a mundane way, making it obvious to the audience that something
fishy is going on. Maybe make a clever joke about why the weapons are there to throw off the audience? As for the townsfolk, they are equally dull and annoyingly offbeat.
What could have been clever is the voice-over narration by Ulysses used to set up his character and events. The narration is presented as a phone message to his estranged wife, but it just sounds like Odenkirk is reading a flowery monologue. Other than that, Odenkirk is good in the lead role.
Director Ben Wheatley (Kill List, Free Fire, Meg 2: The Trench) can’t decide on a consistent tone. Is he making a sharp fish-out-of-water comedy like George Roy Hill’s Funny Farm or a gore-splattering action flick like Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive? It doesn’t matter, because Wheatley fails at both.
The extreme violence here comes off as ugly instead of funny; however, if your bucket list includes seeing the Fonz explode on screen, then Normal is the movie for you. —David Vicari
From left: XYZ films; Magnolia Pictures
PO-BOY VIEWS
Festing Or Resting
The second week of Jazz Fest, and you made it, or you are here in spirit. Your trek to the Fair Grounds is like a pilgrimage toward musical Mecca, complete with the sidewalk entrepreneurs who entertain, entice, provide, and beguile you with their ability to know just what you want to make your coming and goings from the Holy Land just a bit more special. The music and action doesn’t begin and end inside the Fair Grounds.
If you’re in luck, walking in after you pass the beverage entrepreneurs, Liuzza’s famous Bloody Mary, and macrame/budding artist stands, you might be greeted by Eddie of New Orleans’ finest police officers, who will welcome you to the fest complete with high fives, handshakes, and hugs, if you want them. You’ll fest all day, and, flushed with the afterglow, you’ll get hit with a second wind musical round of young brass bands on corners, beauties selling batiks, puppets painting, tie dyes for sale, and drinks of every kind—Liuzza’s is still Ground Zero every year, and they have that Bloody Mary that you’ve been wanting since this morning. There’s buttons; beads; Jello shots; folks dancing to avoid bicycles, kids, and dogs; and folks hurrying to catch a taxi or the shame train/ bus. Breath deep, Alice. You’re still in Wonderland.
Now it’s time to plan the evening’s festivities—get back to where you stay or are staying, shower, shave, shampoo, and Shinola. Slick back whatever you got to work with and tune in to the WWOZ 90.7 (wwoz.org) hotline and find who’s playing where and at what time or check out the info in this mag that you’re holding. Spoiler alert: Some attractions don’t start until 4 or even 5 in the “ahem.” Just enough time for you to pace yourself, absorb all you can, get back home, catch a power nap, and frappe la rue (hit the street) for another day of excruciating great times at the fest.
I’ve known people that do Friday or Saturday allnighters. You may fanaticize that you can heroically do this starting on Thursday and marathon it until early Monday morning. If you’re pure of heart and have the strength of 10, but are you up to that challenge? Probably not. It’s merely urban legend that says that there are stalwarts that can actually hoe the whole row. Do yourself a favor and don’t overtax your body. Smart money knows when to check yourself before you wreck yourself. Ya dig?
Going out and about after the fest? Of course, there’s Bourbon Street, but it’s hard to find a diamond in that coal mine—Maison Bourbon and Fritzel’s Jazz Club—so that’s pretty much a brief one and done thing for a fest devotee just so you can say that you did it. There’s Frenchmen Street if you want to buck the crowds and melee of 10 clubs in three blocks. Snug Harbor is always a class act. Or you can (ad) venture out to where true locals dig the digs.
Have a short one at Hank’s before dropping in to the Mother-in-Law Lounge, head down to Bullet’s Sports Bar, or bop on over to the Bywater/Marigny strip to Vaughan’s, the AllWays, or BJ’s (all Lounges). Also, drop by the Saturn Bar if you want some local “culcha.”
Staying uptown? Say no more. The Maple Leaf Bar, the Rabbit Hole, Carrollton Station, Tipitina’s, Le Bon Temps Roule, or Gasa Gasa. These are but a few joints and jams around town.
Use your street smarts. Don’t accept or purchase candy from strangers, travel in a pack, use a ride share, be aware of your surroundings, and take advice from seasoned festers. Now go get that power nap, ‘cause it’s back to the fest.
“Wasted and wounded, it ain’t what the moon did. I got what I paid for now.”
—Tom Waits “Tom Traubert’s Blues”
You back? Don’t worry, you can sleep on the plane. No, no, no. Stay away from the Bull. It’ll mess up your mind, and you won’t remember s**t about the haps at the fest. Go get yourself an affogato from the ice cream stand. I hope that you enjoyed all you did, even if you just had a few at a local watering hole and went to bed after watching Democracy Now!
If you need to, take that towel that you brought with you, Arthur, and go catch a nap on one of the grassy places. Not for too long, though. You’ll miss Earth, Wind, and Fire, Stevie Nicks, or Rod Stewart, if you’ve got that on your docket.
I’ve got a docket of my own. My docket is to recall the day the Stones played the fest. Thursday, May 2, 2024: The Rolling Stones took over the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. It’s the first day I didn’t go to Jazz Fest in over 20 years. Pre-sale tickets were $185 and went up to $250—not my budget, even for Keith and the boys. May 2, 2026, I will be at Jazz Fest second lining with Marques and the One-Shot Brass Band, parading in the Fair Grounds, and rockin’ to Dumpstaphunk, the Soul Rebels, the Skatelites, and others from my tribes and vibes. Wave.
WHERE Y’BEEN
WEEKDAYS 10PM
Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel
John Boutté
Andrew Duhon
Sally Baby's Silver Dollars
Joe Krown
John "Papa" Gros
Pine Leaf Boys
J & The Causeways
The Tin Men
New Orleans Suspects River Eckert
Keb' Mo' Samantha Fish
Robert Randolph
Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen
Anders Osborne
Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers The Rumble Blind Boys of Mia Borders
