Latest Issue: December 2025—Holiday Dining Guide

DINING • MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE

FROG LEGS F antastic

Holiday Dining Guide

Happy Holidays. Enjoy this Winter Restaurant Guide that highlights some of the hottest restaurants in town, many with special holiday offerings.

Frog legs, which do not taste like chicken, represent the perfect marriage between Creole and Cajun cuisines. Kim Ranjbar explores this unique delicacy and how both the French and Acadians savored it as far back as the 1750s. This issue is filled with more sensational seasonal features, including Andrew Marin’s article on the special Réveillon menus offered around town, Beauregard Tye’s roundup of holiday cocktails, and Michelle Nicholson’s look at the types of foods enjoyed during Hanukkah.

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Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig

Creative Director: Robert Witkowski

Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff

Assistant Editor: Donald Rickert

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Contributing Writers: Shane Finkelstein, Emily Hingle, Kimmie Tubré, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Joel Mandina, Andrew Marin, Michelle Nicholson, Kim Ranjbar, Sabrina Stone, Celeste Turner, Beauregard Tye

Cover: Frog Legs at Jack Dempsey's Restaurant by Randy Schmidt; Frog illustration: Where Y'at staff

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Photographers and Designers: Gus Escanelle, Daelyn House, Emily Hingle, Ameer Joseph, Kim Ranjbar, Alison Robichaux, Robert Witkowski

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HOP CUISINE

How Frog Legs Leaped onto Louisiana Tables

By Kim Ranjbar

While, realistically, no one is worried about dining on the cursed limbs of Tiana or Prince Naveen, many people are understandably squeamish about eating frog legs. Not only are they commonly considered squishy and slimy, and wrongly-accused of spreading warts, frogs are emblematic of our childhood as many are our favorite, fantastical characters. From Jim Henson’s beloved Kermit to Wind and the Willows’ impulsive Mr. Toad, they hold a special place in our hearts.

Nostalgia notwithstanding, frog legs have been devoured and enjoyed for centuries, and the practice has long been attributed to the French, which is where the offensive slur used against them came about. Like many culinary wonders, the devouring of frog legs in France began with monks who found a loophole when abstaining from meat sometime in the 12th century. As amphibians, frogs were deemed to be more fish-like and therefore an acceptable foodstuff to be consumed during Lent.

Interestingly enough, in 2013, a team of archaeologists discovered compelling evidence proving frog

Simmered in a sauce piquante, sauteed in garlic butter, or deep fried, frog legs have long maintained a place on local menus.

Jack Dempsey's

legs were hopping onto the plates of the British long before those wily French monks. An ancient site in Wiltshire, England, not far from Stonehenge, revealed cooked bones from frog legs that proved to be over 10,000 years old, approximately 8,000 years before any recording of the French enjoying this particular delicacy. Despite this discovery, it was, in fact, the French who brought this dish to Louisiana. Our love of frog legs came from both the French who first colonized the area and the Acadians who migrated south in 1755 during the Great Expulsion when the British forced them out of eastern Canada.

Although Acadians settled all across the south and south eastern parts of the state, the small town of Rayne, located just west of Lafayette in Acadia Parish, emerged in the late 19th century as New Orleans’ chief source for frog legs. According to documents archived in the Historic New Orleans Collection, this hopping industry got its start when a Rayne chef named Donat Pucheu began shipping frogs to restaurants in New Orleans by train.

Pucheu’s culinary initiative created a “ribbiting” new business enterprise for the burgeoning Southern town when Jacques Weil, an industrious French immigrant and general mercantile owner, developed a bullfrog shipping industry in Rayne, selling their gourmet bullfrogs to chefs across the country.

Like many towns in southern Louisiana, Rayne is surrounded by rice fields, marshes, and bogs. These are ideal habitats for American bullfrogs, or ouaouaron, as they’re called in Cajun French, which are the type most commonly harvested for their legs. According to a 2003 article in The Rayne AcadianTribune, Weil built a huge pen or “aquarium” with overhead lights to attract insects, which fed the over 15,000 bullfrogs housed within. In its heyday, the small town of Rayne exported hundreds of thousands of frogs to the restaurants of New Orleans and beyond, garnering a country-wide reputation as the “Frog Capital of the World.”

Due to rising labor costs, competition, and habitat loss, Weil’s froggy “leg-acy” ended in the early 1970s, but the city still honors their former claim to fame with an annual festival. Now in its 53rd year, the Rayne Frog Festival, held in the second week of May, is a gathering with live music, pageantry, carnival rides, frog racing,

jumping and kissing, and lots of food (including frog legs), all overseen by the celebration’s green, top-hatted mascot Monsieur Jacques.

Frog Legs & Where to Find Them

Curious diners apprehensive about trying frog legs may be relieved to know they possess a very mild flavor. They don’t exactly taste like chicken, nor do they taste exactly like fish. Instead, their almost sweet flavor and tender texture hovers somewhere in between. Professional chefs and home cooks all over southern Louisiana cook frog legs and know they make an ideal canvas for a variety of flavors.

Similar to French recipes, frog legs, or cuisses de grenouille, are often prepared in Louisiana either dredged in a light batter and pan fried or sauteed in butter, garlic, and parsley. John Folse, a famous local chef, restaurateur, and businessman, offers a recipe for French fried frog legs with a somewhat different preparation. The legs are soaked in buttermilk; dipped in a batter of egg, Creole mustard, beer, and Worcestershire sauce; and then coated in seasoned corn flour before deep frying. The crispy legs are served hot with tartar sauce or cocktail sauce.

Frog legs provençale is another popular recipe, a dish you can currently find on the menu at Arnaud’s Restaurant. The French Quarter restaurant’s recipe includes crisply fried frog legs topped with an Herbsaint-infused garlic butter. Folse also offers a version of this recipe, though his calls for simmering floured and pan fried frog legs in a sauce made with red onion, Creole tomatoes, white wine, and chicken stock.

Out on the edge of Bywater on Poland Avenue, Jack Dempsey’s menu is chock full of fried fish platters, including a pile of battered and deep fried frog legs offered with a choice of sides such as baked mac ‘n’ cheese or potato salad. The Delachaise, a French-inspired wine bar on St. Charles Avenue, also offers fried frog legs, but theirs are cooked in goose fat and served with a spicy-sweet remoulade.

From the monks of medieval France to the rice fields of Rayne, frog legs have traveled a long road to become a Louisiana staple. And while some diners may hesitate at first bite, those who take the leap usually discover what locals have known for generations—frog legs are worth savoring.

HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE

AMERICAN

ANITA’S GRILL

833 Howard Ave., (504) 354-8979, anitasgrillnola.com

1. Anita’s Grill has been serving the same satisfying meals without any changes to the menu since 1922.

2. Anita’s Grill was originally named “Jerry’s” before being sold to Mrs. Anita’s son, who changed the name and ran it for nearly 40 years.

3. Their original Tulane location and current Howard Avenue location served as popular Saints pre-game breakfast spots.

4. The restaurant is well loved for its many different breakfast dishes, such as French toast, pancakes, and omelets.

5. They offer traditional and unique po-boys, including liver and onions.

BEARCAT CAFÉ

Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com

1. Bearcat Café offers a wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and gluten free options.

2. Freshly made juices, sustainably sourced local coffee, and a diverse selection of specialty teas are what make Bearcat unique.

3. Bearcat offers two styles of dining—the “Good Cat” menu and the “Bad Cat” menu.

4. They have a full-scale bakery where they make all the bread and pastries for their stores.

5. They offer a wide selection of cocktails in both their CBD and Uptown locations.

CRESCENT CITY STEAKS

1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

1. Crescent City Steaks is Louisiana’s oldest family-owned steakhouse.

2. Their menu includes a variety of fine cuts of beef, including a filet mignon wrapped in bacon.

3. Crescent City Steaks created the “New Orleans style” of cooking steaks by sizzling them in butter.

4. At the age of 26, John Vojkovich opened up Crescent City Steaks at the same location it stands today in 1934.

5. The restaurant is still owned and operated by the Vojkovich family.

DAISY DUKES CAFÉ

Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com

1. Daisy Dukes Café takes pride in serving genuine Cajun and Southern cuisine in New Orleans.

2. The restaurant serves breakfast all day along.

3. Daisy Dukes Café has an award-winning Cajun Bloody Mary that is essential to order while there.

4. The menu features shrimp and grits, biscuits and gravy, classic New Orleans po-boys, fried green tomatoes, country fried steak, and so much more.

5. Daisy Dukes Café was recognized by Tripadvisor as a “Travelers Choice” in 2024.

DESI VEGA’S STEAKHOUSE

Multiple Locations, desivegasteaks.com

1. USDA prime cut steaks and fresh seafood are what Desi Vega’s Steakhouse is known for.

2. Desi Vega, the steakhouse’s namesake, grew up in NOLA learning how to cook from his mother.

3. Desi Vega learned his culinary expertise from the great chefs of Brennan’s, Ruth’s Chris, and Commander’s Palace.

4. The restaurant has an extensive wine menu and has even won Wine Spector’s Award of Excellence three years in a row.

5. They have three unique dining rooms for private events.

JACK ROSE

2031 St. Charles Ave., (504) 608-7112, jackroserestaurant.com

1. Jack Rose is an elegant restaurant located in the Pontchartrain Hotel.

2. The restaurant menu consists of a mix of New Orleans style Italian, French, and Spanish dishes.

3. Jack Rose was named “Best Hotel Restaurant in the United States” by USA Today.

4. The name Jack Rose was inspired by the play The Rose Tattoo by Tennessee Williams because of his connection to the Pontchartrain Hotel.

5. Head out for brunch and enjoy duck and andouille gumbo and fried catfish Benedict.

JIMMY J’S CAFÉ

115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe. com

1. Jimmy J’s Café is a funky breakfast restaurant in the French Quarter that also serves po-boys and burritos.

2. The mom-and-pop spot, popular for tourists and locals, opened back in 2011.

3. They serve a variety of unique breakfast options including Oreo pancakes, beignet sticks, and breakfast nachos.

4. The owners take pride in using fresh, home-made ingredients.

5. Jimmy J’s also has a variety of alcoholic beverages including Bloody Marys, mimosas, and sangria.

LEGACY KITCHEN’S CRAFT TAVERN

700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com

1. Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern focuses on American cuisine and craft beer in an industrial-chic ambiance.

2. The Craft Tavern opens at 7 a.m. every day and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

3. If you’re searching for beignets, they offer beignets all day.

4. Craft Tavern is included in the same Legacy Kitchen restaurant group as Tacklebox and Steak + Chop.

5. Some menu items at Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern include crawfish cornbread, steak frites, and pecan smoked chicken wings.

LEGACY KITCHEN’S STEAK + CHOP

91 Westbank Expy. #51, Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com

1. If you love prime cut meats, then Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop is a must visit on the Westbank.

2. Steak + Chop has a top-grade selection of center cut top sirloin, Delmonico ribeye, tomahawks, filets, and pork chops.

3. They offer happy hour and “Game Day Specials” during particular football games.

4. Creative craft cocktails, including the Saintsational, are available.

5. Even though they are meat forward, the restaurant does have seafood and vegetarian options to enjoy.

LUKE

333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

1. Luke is in the Hilton New Orleans Hotel and is a refined Creole-inspired brasserie

2. Chef Corey Sharp’s menu, which includes crispy pork schnitzel and moules et frites, pairs well with the restaurant’s crafted cocktails and select wines.

3. Luke opened in 2007 as a tribute to French and Anita's Grill

Anita’s Grill

German brasseries

4. Luke has an amazing raw bar that can be enjoyed for lunch, brunch, and dinner.

5. Some menu items include blue crab omelet, honey glazed pork belly, and fresh Gulf oysters.

MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

1101 N. Causeway Blvd., (504) 407-3533, moesoriginalbbq.com

1. Moe’s offers Alabama BBQ, Southern sides, and fresh seafood.

2. The BBQ spot opened in Colorado by three University of Alabama students with a love for smoking meat.

3. They offer a wide variety of customizable catering items.

4. Moe’s Original BBQ has been named Top 10 BBQ Chains in America by USA Today and The Daily Meal

5. The founders of Moe’s created two signature sauces for their meats—a bold and tangy BBQ sauce and a creamy and zesty tartar sauce.

NEW ORLEANS VAMPIRE CAFÉ

801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

1. Vampire Café takes dining to a new level with their dishes including “stake” and eggs and espresso crème brûlée

2. Order one of their specialty cocktails by blood type such as the “Type O-,” which is a blackberry mojito served in a blood bag.

3. They also have wines such as Trueblood and Dracula.

4. Get friends together for a leaf reading at their monthly afternoon high tea.

5. Vampire Café also has special chocolate bars shaped like bats.

NOLA STEAK

4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (855) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans. com

1. NOLA Steak is located in the Boomtown Casino in Harvey on the Westbank.

2. The restaurant is open for dinner Thursday to Saturday and features a jazz brunch buffet on Sundays.

3. The menu features not only a variety of steak selections but also Louisiana BBQ shrimp, crawfish bread, and fresh seasonal salads.

4. Join NOLA Steak for Ladies Night on Thursdays for a live DJ and $3 cocktails.

5. Creative cocktails such as the NOLA Tini and the Italian margarita are available.

SALA NOLA

124 Lake Marina Ave., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com

1. Located near Lake Pontchartrain, Sala NOLA specializes in shareable plates with specialty cocktails.

2. The owner of Sala NOLA, Joseph Riccobono, is a member of multiple community boards focusing on promoting small businesses in New Orleans.

3. Sala NOLA features breakfast, weekend brunch, dinner, steak night, and happy hour.

4. Some menu items include bacon Brussels spouts, herb truffle fries, and bang bang shrimp.

5. Sala NOLA is the sister restaurant to Café Navarré and Panola Street Café.

SPUDLY’S SUPER SPUDS

2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com

1. Spudly’s is known for their loaded baked potatoes that are “a meal in a baked potato.”

2. Spudly’s opened in 1980 serving only baked potatoes before evolving to include soups, salads, and sandwiches.

3. Some of the unique fully loaded baked potatoes include a crabmeat and shrimp spud, pizza spud, and fajita spud.

4. The restaurant also serves spud skins for people who don’t want a full potato.

5. Their super combo tray of chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and mushrooms is a great appetizer.

THE COUNTRY CLUB

634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com

1. The Country Club New Orleans has been located in the Bywater for more than 40 years.

2. The neighborhood gem offers guests a relaxing getaway with their cabana lounge and pool, Creole restaurant and bar, and events.

3. Don’t miss out on their award-winning drag brunch every Saturday and Sunday.

4. The Country Club does private buyouts for weddings, receptions, and other extravagant events.

5. Their dinner menu includes crab beignets, fried green tomatoes, and crispy Parmesan oysters.

VACCA STEAKHOUSE

3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com

1. Vacca Steakhouse opened up in June 2024 as an oldschool steakhouse with a modern flair.

2. The restaurant has weekly specials featuring martini Monday, Friday burgers & brews, and happy hour on select days.

3. Stop in for happy hour and enjoy a complimentary garlic steak bite.

4. Vacca hosts Sunday brunch with some menu items including grillades and grits, crab cake Benedict, and steak and eggs.

5. Vacca also specializes in private events including weddings, birthdays, business meetings, presentations, and more.

VAMPIRE APOTHECARY

725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

1. The Vampire Apothecary, or Boutique du Vampyre’s Apothecary, opened its doors to the public in 2023.

2. The Vampire Apothecary offers tarot readings, as well as a full-service restaurant and bar.

3. On select dates, the apothecary hosts magic shows that feature illusions and tricks.

4. Learn how to read your own future with their high tea leaf reading, which includes finger sandwiches, scones, and learning how to read your leaves.

5. They also offer a customized fang making service.

WILLIE MAE’S NOLA

898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com

1. Originally opening in 1957 as a bar in the Tremé neighborhood, Willie Mae’s is a full-service restaurant serving some of the best fried chicken in the nation.

2. Ms. Willie Mae won the James Beard Award for “America’s Classic Restaurant in the Southern Region.”

3. Be sure to try Willie Mae’s unique cocktails, including Uncle Yam’s Old Fashioned.

4. The menu includes mixed seafood and meat gumbo, Creole Gulf fish, and more.

5. Willie Mae’s also hosts brunch on Saturday and Sundays.

Orleans Grapevine

Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern

ASIAN

ASIA

4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com

1. Asia offers Vietnamese and Chinese dishes inside of Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans.

2. They serve a variety of delicious dishes including Vietnamese noodle soup, fried rice, and lo mein noodles.

3. They also offer a blood orange sparkling sake by local brewery Wetlands Sake.

4. Make sure to also try a unique non-alcoholic drink including grass jelly and chrysanthemum tea.

5. Asia is one of many food spots inside Boomtown Casino, including NOLA Steak.

MANTRA ORIGINAL INDIAN CUISINE

3116 S. I-10 Service Rd. W. E., Metairie, (504) 3548349, mantraoriginalindiancuisine.com

1. Mantra Original Indian Cuisine brings the soulful flavors of the Punjabi region to Greater New Orleans.

2. The restaurant uses hand-blended spices and the freshest ingredients for its dishes.

3. Their menu contains a variety of tandoori specialties including sheekh kabob and lamb chops.

4. Mantra also has a selection of lamb and goat entrees for those willing to give them a try.

5. Save up room and experience truly unique Indian desserts such as carrot halwa, gulab jamun, ras malai, and kheer.

MIKIMOTO RESTAURANT

3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

1. Mikimoto opened on S. Carrollton in 1999 with a promise to serve the freshest quality ingredients with exceptional service.

2. Mikimoto is the only to-go sushi restaurant in New Orleans with a drive-thru window.

3. Not only do they offer dine-in and to-go, Mikimoto offers free catering delivery for orders over $100.

4. Some menu items include pork gyoza, vegetable tempura, and specialty sushi rolls.

5. The restaurant also has plenty of Japanese drinks to try including plum wine and many kinds of sake

THAI’D UP

1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co

1. Thai’d Up, serving their unique version of Isan Thai cuisine, came to the Gentilly neighborhood in 2022.

2. Thai’d Up won Where Yat’s “Best of the Big Easy Best Thai Restaurant” in 2024 and 2025.

3. Their menu offerings include roti flatbread, Thai beef jerky, coconut shrimp, and more.

4. Thai’d Up is located near the Fair Grounds Race Course on Gentilly Boulevard.

5. Owner Chef Saowanit “Kate” Welch is a Thailand native with over 10 years of experience in the culinary world.

BARS WITH GREAT FOOD

JB’S FUEL DOCK

128 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock. com

1. JB’s Fuel Dock is located along Lake Pontchartrain in beautiful West End Park.

2. Their menu includes pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, and a full bar.

3. Enjoy a day out on their outside patio, which faces the waterfront.

4. JB’s location was built in the 1950s and has been a boat yard, convenience store, and a fueling station providing gas to boats.

5. The building was bought and converted into a restaurant and bar in 2018.

THE CHANNEL

2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans.com

1. The Channel is located on Magazine Street and features seasonal crawfish, a full bar, and a kitchen.

2. Some food items include wings, burgers, and fried seafood.

3. The Channel is named after the neighborhood it resides in: the Irish Channel.

4. If you’re a sports fan, make sure to get to The Channel early for the game because they have multiple TVs and usually get packed for local football games.

5. They also host birthdays, office functions, and other special events.

CAFÉS

CAFÉ AMELIE

900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com

1. Café Amelie sits in one of three connected townhouses that were built in 1836.

2. The restaurant is named after the mother of Princess Alice, the first American Princess of Monaco, who lived in the accompanying townhouse.

3. Café Amelie opened as a restaurant serving brunch and dinner in 2005.

4. Some menu items include gumbo, chicken and waffles, and Cajun poutine.

5. In addition to their indoor seating, Café Amelie has beautiful outdoor seating to enjoy while the weather is cool.

KITCHEN TABLE CAFÉ

7005 St. Claude Ave., (504) 301-2285, facebook. com/kitchentablearabi

1. The Kitchen Table Café is a casual neighborhood cafe serving American cuisine through locally-sourced, fresh ingredients.

2. The café hosts a variety of events regularly.

3. Fresh and fruity brioche, crispy pesto chicken cutlet sandwich, and smoked duck gumbo are just some of the menu items.

4. This neighborhood favorite is located in Arabi.

5. They host live music as well, so check the Kitchen Table Café’s Facebook page to see who will be performing.

THE VINTAGE RESTAURANT

3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com

1. The Vintage is a café, wine bar, and bakery serving beignets and small plates.

2. The restaurant opened in 2018 on Magazine, giving itself the name “The Vintage” for the history of New Orleans’ architecture and culture.

3. If you’re a coffee lover, The Vintage is a microroastery that imports the highest quality of green coffee.

4. Some featured small plates include a zoodle bowl, alligator poppers, and garlic herb bites.

5. They offer a list of Pre-Prohibition cocktails including Sazerac and Brandy Crusta.

WILLA JEAN

611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com

1. Willa Jean is a beloved bakery, restaurant, and bar in the Warehouse District.

2. The restaurant offers a Southern menu featuring a fried chicken sandwich, shrimp Creole, and more.

3. The fried chicken and Tabasco honey biscuit is amazing and is a stand out for Chef Sarah LeBlanc.

4. Their cookies + milk dessert, which comes with cookie dough, evokes childhood memories.

5. Willa Jean also offers catering, and you can book your next event at the restaurant as well.

CARIBBEAN

JAMAICAN JERK HOUSE

Multiple Locations, jamaicanjerkhouse.com

1. Jamaican Jerk House is one of the most authentic Jamaican restaurants in Greater New Orleans.

2. You can find unique combos including oxtail tacos, jerk salmon pasta, and queso Brussels sprouts.

3. Owner Richard Rose is from Kingston and his wife Jackie Diaz is from New Orleans with a Cuban heritage, giving them a unique fusion to their restaurant.

4. Jamaican Jerk House is known for its family secret recipe jerk seasoning.

5. Try their original Bywater location or their brand-new Metairie spot.

FRENCH

RESTAURANT AUGUST

301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com

1. Restaurant August is located in the CBD in a 19th century French-Creole building.

2. Restaurant August was founded in 2001 as a homage to Creole culture by Chef John Besh and August “Duke” Robin.

3. Chef Corey Thomas creates elevated takes on Creole cuisine such as with the Snapper Pontchartrain.

4. The restaurant is known for its commitment to serving high end Creole dishes.

5. Restaurant August has won multiple awards includingsome from the “Guide to America’s Best Restaurants” and “America’s Top 50 Restaurants.”

ITALIAN

DOMENICA

123 Baronne St., (504) 336-6541, domenicarestaurant.com

1. Domenica’s Executive Chef Phillip Mariano was part of the original opening team in 2009.

2. Domenica has a sister restaurant named Pizza Domenica for a more casual dining experience.

3. The menu includes salumi selections, pizza, pasta, and more takes on warm, rustic flavors.

4. The name of the restaurant, “Domenica,” means “Sunday” in Italian and is a tribute to the traditional

Thai'd Up

Sunday dinner in Italian cultures.

5. Chef Mariano’s skills ensure all of Domenica’s dishes come from the heart.

MOSCA’S RESTAURANT

4137 US-90 West, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com

1. Mosca’s Restaurant has been opened in Westwego since 1946 by Italian immigrants Provino and Lisa Mosca.

2. The restaurant was restored in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina and is still owned and operated by fourth generations of the Mosca family.

3. Tradition stands strong at Mosca’s with its unchanging menu and family recipes.

4. The menu includes Creole Italian classics oysters Mosca, chicken cacciatore, and more.

5. Their menu is family style, so get your family or close friends together and arrive hungry.

PAULIE’S DELICATESSEN

8201 Oak St., (504) 412-8326, pauliesneworleans. com

1. Paulie’s Delicatessen started as Empire State Deli by Paul Tufaro in 2004.

2. Tufaro changed the name and expanded the menu of the restaurant after relocating his business in 2021 to Oak Street.

3. They serve fresh from NY bagels daily, coffee/ espresso drinks, and have a full-service bar and TV for sports.

4. Their catering menu, with sandwich platters, fruit and salad trays, and family sized potato salad, is perfect for business lunches.

5. They also host events including karaoke and trivia. PIZZA DOMENICA

Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

1. Pizza Domenica, with locations in Uptown and Lakeview, offers a relaxed yet vibrant energy.

2. Chef Philip Mariano’s menu includes a variety of pizza options including a classic margherita and a creative fungi pizze with oyster mushrooms, egg, truffle salami, and smoked mozzarella.

3. Their custom-made wood-fire ovens were shipped from Italy.

4. Their open kitchens give guests a connection to the meal being made for them.

5. Pizza Domenica’s happy hour specials and welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for get-togethers.

PULCINELLA!

1300 St. Bernard Ave., (504) 221-1560, dirtydimeproductions.com

1. Enjoy modern takes on family recipes by Executive Chef Matty Hayes at Pulcinella! in the Seventh Ward.

2. Pulcinella! is a tribute to home style Italian cuisine and the classic Italian character known for being a trickster.

3. Live shows happen weekly at the upstairs speakeasy called the Original Nite Cap.

4. Some menu items include oyster artichoke soup, seafood cannelloni, and eggplant parmesan.

5. Pulcinella! offers craft cocktails and beer, as well as mocktails and non-alcoholic beer.

U PIZZA

1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola. com

1. U Pizza opened in 2022 on St. Charles Avenue where the old Slice Pizzeria stood for 18 years.

2. The pizza spot opens 10:30 a.m. and closes at midnight on Sunday to Thursday and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

3. The menu includes classic options including gourmet pizzas and mozzarella sticks.

4. From Monday to Thursday, U Pizza offers a slice of pizza and draft beer deal for $5.

5. They have a robust lunch crowd and also offer delivery.

VENEZIA

Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com

1. Venezia opened in 1957 on N. Carrollton Avenue as one of the first pizza restaurants in New Orleans.

2. The owner, Anthony Carole, ran the restaurant for 30 years.

3. Venezia made its way to Gretna with a second location in August 2024.

4. Host your private party at one of the Venezia locations, which includes a set menu and bar service.

5. The traditional Italian menu includes chicken marsala, baked meatballs, seafood stuffed mushrooms, and so much more.

LATIN

34 RESTAURANT & BAR

714 Baronne St., (504) 498-3434, 34restaurantandbar.com

1. Emeril Lagasse and his son E.J. opened up 34 Restaurant & Bar as a tribute to their Portuguese heritage.

2. The restaurant features a Sunday brunch menu, dinner menu, and happy hour menu on select days.

3. Some dinner items include Portuguese blood sausage, seafood paella, and a Portuguese steak sandwich.

4. Chef De Cuisine Chris dos Reis is a Portuguese American chef who spent time in Portugal working at multiple pop-up concepts.

5. Dos Reis also worked in Michelin Star kitchens across Europe.

EL GATO NEGRO

Multiple Locations, elgatonegronola.com

1. El Gato Negro is an authentic Mexican restaurant that is inspired by the cuisine of Michoacan, Mexico.

2. Not only does El Gato Negro serve fresh high-quality meals, they have an extensive tequila list.

3. The restaurant has three locations spread across New Orleans and Gretna.

4. Juan Contreras dedicated the restaurant to his mother and father who migrated to America with nothing but a dream.

5. Some menu items include lobster claw tacos, tableside ceviche, and carrot and lime margaritas.

EMPANOLA

Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com

1. Empanola started in 2017 as a vendor at the St. Roch Market by combining traditional empanadas with New Orleans inspired fillings.

2. Their twist on the traditional empanadas includes menu items such as crawfish etouffee and gumbo empanadas.

3. Empanola is also a franchise that gives others the chance to provide curated meals to the community.

4. The unique concept has branched out from New Orleans to a new location in Ocean Springs, MS.

5. Empanola also serves salads and vegetarian empanadas.

FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA

Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com

1. Felipe’s is a very popular Mexican restaurant with locations throughout Greater New Orleans, as well as Florida and Massachusetts.

2. In addition to specific dishes, the restaurant allows customers to customize their entrees to fit their tastes.

3. Their margaritas, both on the rocks and frozen, and sangria are made with fresh squeezed juice.

4. Felipe’s won both Best Traditional Tacos and Best Traditional Margaritas during Top Taco 2022 and 2023.

5. The restaurant also hosts special events for celebrations and specific holidays.

MIDDLE EASTERN

LEBANON’S CAFE

1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

1. Lebanon’s Cafe has been proudly serving authentic cuisine in the Carrollton neighborhood for over 22 years.

2. In addition to the menu, the decor and ambiance is a celebration of the rich culture of the Middle East.

3. The classic menu features hummus, baba ganoush, and gyro plates.

4. Make sure to bring your own alcohol if you’re looking for wine because Lebanon’s does not have a bar but does allow outside beverages.

5. Baklava, burma, and Jordan almonds are available for dessert.

MONA’S CAFE

3901 Banks St., (504) 482-7743, monas-cafe. foodjoyy.com

1. Mona’s Cafe is a hidden gem in New Orleans’ Mid-City neighborhood.

2. The Middle Eastern café originated in 1990 on Banks Street as an extension of the Daily Pita Bakery next door.

3. The menu is filled to the brim with delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

4. Traditional Mediterranean dishes such as falafel and fried halloumi cheese, as well as unique dishes including safeiha, are available.

5. Nammura, which is semolina, almond, rosewater, and honey, is available.

SHAYA

4213 Magazine St., (504) 943-7231, shayarestaurant.com

1. Shaya focuses on combining cuisine from North Africa, Eastern Europe, Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East together with Southern flair.

2. Chef Fariz Choumali is from Beirut and has created a contemporary Levantine menu.

3. Vegans and vegetarians luck out at Shaya due to a good amount of the menu not containing any meat.

Kitchen Table

4. Shaya serves all their menu items with wood-fire roasted, fresh pita bread.

5. Creamy hummus, smoky baba ganoush, and crispy halloumi are just some of the menu features.

NEW ORLEANS CUISINE

3RD BLOCK DEPOT

316 Chartres St., (504) 552-4095, 3rdblockdepot.com

1. 3rd Block Depot is a Cajun and Creole restaurant located in the Hotel de la Poste.

2. The creative menu features mushroom hushpuppies, Bananas Fosters French toast, crawfish omelet, and more.

3. The historic Warehouse District building used to be a warehouse where molasses and rum was stored.

4. Executive Chef Stuart McLaughlin previously worked as the executive chef for the Omni Riverfront Hotel.

5. Their drink menu contains Louisiana inspired, creative cocktails and mocktails.

ANNUNCIATION RESTAURANT

1016 Annunciation St., (504) 568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com

1. Annunciation Restaurant, located in the heart of the Warehouse District, offers a great selection of classic and contemporary Creole and Cajun food.

2. The restaurant was recognized in OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice awards for 2023 and 2025.

3. They offer special twists on traditional cocktails such as the Cajun Mule and the Ole’ Pecan.

4. In addition to traditional dishes, expect to see creative takes on classics such as the paneed oysters and softshell crab Monica.

5. Annunciation can even host your next private party.

CHEF RON’S GUMBO STOP

2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com

1. This cozy spot is nestled in the heart of Metairie’s Galleria and is only just a few minutes away from New Orleans.

2. Chef Ron Iafrate only uses local ingredients in his home-made gumbo.

3. The Gumbo Stop is known for their award-winning gumbos including the stuffed gumbo topped with fried catfish.

4. Chef Iafrate earned his culinary degree from Johnson and Wales University.

5. Chef Iafrate was named Chef of the Year in 2010 by the American Culinary Federation.

CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE

527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com

1. Crescent City Brewhouse is the French Quarter’s first and only microbrewery.

2. Enjoy live music daily featuring classic New Orleans jazz in their open dining room.

3. All their dishes, including crabmeat hush puppies, fried alligator, and ribs, are made from scratch.

4. Crescent City Brewhouse is the oldest brewpub in Louisiana and brews Old World style beer with modern technology.

5. The historic building that Crescent City Brewhouse resides in dates all the way back to 1722.

DESIRE OYSTER BAR

300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com/ royal-sonesta/la/new-orleans

1. Located in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, Desire Oyster Bar serves Louisiana-style cuisine with a focus on Gulf oysters.

2. The building the hotel and restaurant are located in has been standing since 1721.

3. Sit at the oyster bar and watch the chefs shuck fresh Gulf oysters.

4. Desire Oyster Bar serves more than just oysters including Creole jambalaya and fried catfish.

5. Order their Compromise po-boy, which is half fried shrimp and half fried oyster.

1513 ST. CHARLES AVE.

HEADQUARTERS

BY NICE GUYS NOLA

445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com

1. Nice Guys NOLA opened their sister restaurant Headquarters in the Warehouse District, offering a relaxed ambiance with a unique fusion style menu.

2. Don’t miss their Taco Tuesday deals that include $3 tacos, $5 cocktails, and $20 hookah set up.

3. The fusion menu consists of crawfish beignets, Buffalo wings, and a crabcake burger.

4. Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA shares a space with the historic Little Gem Saloon.

5. The restaurant hosts weekly live events including Latin Night and Saints watch parties.

HOUSE OF BLUES NEW ORLEANS

225 Decatur St., (504) 3104999, houseofblues.com/neworleans

1. The House of Blues New Orleans opened in the French Quarter in 1994 and is just one location of many across the country.

2. It aims to celebrate Southern and African American culture through music and live events.

3. Their food menu consists of American classics including fried green tomatoes, Cajun chicken pasta, and burgers.

4. House of Blues features many different event halls.

5. Sign up for the House of Blues’ membership and get early access to shows, VIP treatment, and personalized service.

LAKEVIEW HARBOR

8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us

1. Lakeview Harbor was founded in 1993 on Harrison Avenue before moving to their current location on Pontchartrain Boulevard.

was nicknamed Lil’ Dizzy because he played jazz similar to the musician Dizzy Gillespie.

4. They use recipes from over four generations of the Baquet family.

5. The menu contains old school Creole specials including stuffed bell peppers and smothered okra.

LORETTA’S AUTHENTIC PRALINES Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines. com

1. Loretta Harrison was the first African American woman to own a praline company in NOLA in 1983.

2. The late Harrison first gained recognition for her pralines as a vendor at the Jazz Fest.

3. Loretta’s Authentic Pralines is set up in the French Market and at a brick and mortar on N. Rampart.

4. In addition to original pralines, Loretta’s offers unique pralines made with chocolate, coconut, and rum.

2. This neighborhood spot is known for their thick cut burgers and Typhoon punch.

3. If you want to have a party right by Lake Pontchartrain, Lakeview Harbor hosts private parties and events.

4. They are known for their famous overstuffed baked potatoes that can accompany any dish.

5. Lakeview Harbor also offers catering and can provide boiled crawfish, mini muffulettas, and more.

LIL’ DIZZY’S CAFÉ

1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 7668687, lildizzyscafe.net

1. Wayne Baquet Sr. opened Lil’ Dizzy’s Café in 2004 and now operates with his wife Arkesha.

2. The Baquet family has over 70+ years of culinary history in NOLA.

3. The name “Lil’ Dizzy’s” was inspired by Wayne Baquet Sr.’s grandson who

5. They offer both traditional and savory beignets including their one-of-a-kind crabmeat stuffed beignet.

LYONS CORNER

537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006, lyonscornernola.com

1. Lyons Corner offers casual dining with a chic modern charm, offering New Orleans and American style contemporary cuisine.

2. The building where the restaurant stands today used to be an apothecary in the 1800s named Lyons Co.

3. This building is where the famous New Orleans nectar soda was formulated by Lyons Co.

4. The menu features muffuletta chopped salad, bang bang fried oysters, and Cajun prawns.

5. Lyons Corner also has an espresso bar that serves up fresh coffee and tea daily.

Moe’s Original BBQ

MANDINA’S RESTAURANT

3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

1. The iconic Mandina’s Restaurant was originally a grocery store opened in 1898 by Sicilian immigrant Sebastian Mandina.

2. The business evolved into a pool hall that also served sandwiches in the 1900s.

3. Sebastian Mandina’s sons opened up Mandina’s Restaurant in 1932, leaving the wives to run the business while the brothers served in WW2.

4. Fast forward to today, fourth generation owner Cindy Mandina operates the business.

5. Mandina’s Restaurant is known for their Creole and Italian cuisine including po-boys and pasta.

MELBA’S

Multiple Locations, melbas.com

1. The beloved Melba’s opened up after Hurricane Katrina as a hub for the community to come get a meal and talk about the current battles the city was facing.

2. Melba’s serves breakfast and a main menu that includes BBQ ribs, fried plates, and po-boys.

3. Melba’s literacy program helps people in need of books.

4. Melba’s is open 24 hours.

5. If you need to do laundry and grab a breakfast sandwich, Melba’s also has an attached laundromat at the Elysian Fields location.

MERIL

424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com

1. Meril was opened by Chef Emeril Lagasse and named the restaurant after his daughter.

2. The American contemporary restaurant has an open kitchen where you can see the cooks make your meal.

3. The menu has international influences from Chef Lagasse’s favorite places to eat all over the world.

4. Meril focuses on a more casual dining experience in comparison to some of the other restaurants owned by Emeril Lagasse.

5. Meril hosts brunch on Saturdays and Sundays with bottomless mimosas.

MOTHER’S RESTAURANT

401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

1. Mother’s Restaurant opened in 1938 by Simon and Mary “Mother” Landry.

2. The restaurant became very popular during and after WW2 serving as a local hangout spot for the U.S. Marine Corps.

Cookery and have a long history of restaurant and catering businesses in New Orleans.

3. Mother’s still serves veterans, locals, and tourists alike their po-boys, world famous baked ham, and more.

4. The restaurant also has plenty of seafood including catfish, Gulf shrimp, and fried oysters.

5. In addition to its NOLA classics, Mother’s offers breakfast all day, every day.

NEW

ORLEANS CREOLE COOKERY

510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

1. New Orleans Creole Cookery is a traditional Creole restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio.

2. The historic building has a haunting past with people claiming they’ve seen ghosts.

3. The Tusa family launched New Orleans Creole

Available at fine Grocers

4. The restaurant received OpenTable’s Diners Choice recognition in 2023.

5. The menu contains plenty of oysters, boiled and fried seafood, and many other New Orleans favorites.

NEYOW’S CREOLE CAFÉ

3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neyows.com

1. Timothy and Tanya Dubuclet opened Neyow’s Creole Café in Mid-City in 2009.

2. Tanya originally had the idea of opening a restaurant after making “to-go plates” to family and friends after Hurricane Katrina.

3. The café serves Creole classics including stuffed crab, BBQ shrimp, chargrilled oysters, and gumbo.

4. “Neyow’s” came from the nickname for the family’s favorite dog breed: Neapolitan mastiff.

5. Neyow’s has a huge catering menu that includes

Lakeview Harbor

LEBANON’S CAFE

SEASON’S EATINGS SEASON’S EATINGS

oyster patties, sweet potato pound cake, and so much more.

NEYOW’S XL

3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com

1. Neyow’s XL is a fine-dining steakhouse that is run by the same owners who own Neyow’s Creole Café.

2. Neyow’s XL serves premium steaks, seafood, and has a large wine list.

3. The restaurant offers special XL cocktails including XL Blue Bayou, XL Hurricane, and XL French.

4. The interior of the restaurant is perfectly designed for special occasions and private parties.

5. The restaurant is conveniently located right next to the original Neyow’s Creole Café.

ORLEANS GRAPEVINE WINE BAR AND BISTRO

720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

1. Pam Fortner and Earl Bernhardt opened Orleans Grapevine in the French Quarter in 2002.

2. The historic building that contains the wine bar and bistro was built in 1809 and served as a restaurant even back then.

3. Fortner and Bernhardt are the same owners of Tropical Isle, the iconic home of the Hand Grenade.

4. Orleans Grapevine has an extensive wine list with wines from all over the world.

5. They also feature a full menu with scallops, roasted duck breast, and more.

PARKWAY BAKERY & TAVERN 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

1. Parkway Bakery & Tavern was first established in Bayou St. John in 1911.

2. The owners originally sold sweet rolls and donuts before the creation of the po-boy in 1929.

3. After shutting down in the 1990s, local resident Jay Nix purchased the building and reopened Parkway in 2005.

4. Parkway is known for their many different po-boys including fried Gulf shrimp and their famous slowcooked roast beef.

5. Parkway has Jay’s Place, a tavern where customers can get the same menu items.

PLEASE-U-RESTAURANT 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504)

1. Please-U is a family-owned diner that has been open since 1946.

2. The classic menu features all day breakfast and lunch with generous portions at great prices.

3. The restaurant is owned by local Greek entrepreneurs “Mr. Nick and Mrs. Helen.”

4. Please-U is located right by the St. Charles streetcar line.

5. Their menu has some unique items including a fried oyster omelet, cotto salami po-boy, hot dog and chili poboy, and liver with two eggs.

SHORT STOP POBOYS

119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno. com

1. The original Short Stop was a grocery and meat market called Short Stop Superette.

2. The business has been family run since its inception and it is currently run by Russell Hendrick.

3. Hendrick began selling po-boys in 1970 when he realized how many customers came into the grocery buying deli meat for sandwiches.

4. Short Stop Poboys is known for their classic roast beef po-boy covered in house-made gravy.

5. They also have softshell crab, oyster, and shrimp po-boys.

SEAFOOD

BRIQUETTE

701 S. Peters St., (504) 547-6330, briquette-nola.com

1. Briquette is a contemporary seafood restaurant located in the Warehouse District.

2. The restaurant is owned by A.J. and Anna Tusa, who also own New Orleans Creole Cookery.

3. The building that houses Briquette is where the former Rodd Brothers Molasses Refinery was located in the 1800s.

4. The restaurant has a culinary focus on fresh Louisiana and Gulf Coast seafood.

5. The name of the restaurant refers to

Neyow's Creole Café

the cooking method of cooking fresh fish using red-hot briquettes.

DELACROIX RESTAURANT

1 Poydras St. Spec. 1005, (504) 655-9002, delacroixrestaurant.com

1. Delacroix Restaurant is a brand-new restaurant on the New Orleans riverfront in Spanish Plaza.

2. The restaurant pays tribute to the food, people, and culture in the village of Delacroix in the St. Bernard Parish.

3. Chef Wiley Lewis offers a refined take on classic fishing and hunting camps.

4. Some menu items include turtle sauce piquante and fried catfish, as well as wild boar cavatelli

5. Delacroix Restaurant’s raw bar contains off-bottom Gulf oysters, Louisiana stone crab claws, and other decadent seafood.

DRAGO’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com

3. The Tacklebox is open at 7 a.m. every day and has a brunch menu until 2 p.m.

1. Drago’s Seafood is named after founder Drago Cvitanovich, who was originally from Croatia.

2. Drago’s is perhaps best known for originating the famous and beloved chargrilled oysters dish that can now be found throughout Greater New Orleans.

3. The restaurant is run by Drago’s son, Tommy Cvitanovich.

4. The menu also features Maine lobsters, filet mignon, and seafood pasta.

5. Drago’s is a local favorite and has grown in popularity by expanding out to Mississippi.

FELIX’S RESTAURANT AND OYSTER BAR

Multiple Locations, felixs.com

1. Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar put the New Orleans oyster bar on the map in the 1940s.

2. Felix’s is famously known for their fresh, Louisiana oysters that are shucked right in front of you.

3. The iconic restaurant has a location on the Lakefront and expanded in 2017 to Mississippi.

4. The menu also includes gumbo ya-ya, red beans and rice, and various seafood plates.

5. The famous neon “Felix’s” sign has become a landmark of the French Quarter.

LEGACY KITCHEN’S TACKLEBOX 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com

1. Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox, one of several “Legacy Kitchen” concepts, focuses on quality seafood.

2. The menu features fried seafood platters, beignets, and Southern comfort plates.

4. The brunch menu includes a breakfast burger, Bananas Foster waffle, and a NOLA-style grits bowl.

5. Some of their standout seafood dishes include a softshell crab BLT, lobster rangoon, and crawfish bread.

THE BLUE CRAB RESTAURANT & BAR

7900 Lakeshore Dr., (504) 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com

1. The Blue Crab opened in 2013 in Lakeview as a tribute to all the old restaurants that had populated West End.

2. The seafood restaurant features a beautiful outside area that looks over Lake Pontchartrain.

3. The menu includes chargrilled oysters, crab claws, and a blue crab platter.

4. The Blue Crab features $1 oysters for happy hour from Tuesday to Thursday.

5. The restaurant also features boiled shrimp, crabs, and crawfish when they are in season.

THE GALLEY SEAFOOD

2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955

1. The Galley founders Dennis and Vicky Patania gained popularity in 1976 for their fried soft-shell po-boy.

2. The family-owned restaurant was originally a food vendor at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

3. The Galley Seafood grew in popularity and opened a brick-and-mortar in 1991.

4. The menu includes fried artichoke hearts, softshell crab, and crawfish Moncia with fried catfish.

5. The business remains in the same family and maintains the same recipes used at the 1976 Jazz Fest.

Loretta's

ESTIVAL OF LAVORS

By Michelle Nicholson

Celebrating Hanukkah Through New Orleans Cuisine

In New Orleans, every holiday comes with a table full of food, and Hanukkah is no exception.

In fact, food plays the same role in both Jewish and New Orleans traditions: it keeps memory alive, gathers people, and turns ordinary nights into occasions worth remembering. While the Festival of Lights is rooted in ancient history, it continues to shine in New Orleans with local flavor.

LATKES WITH A LOCAL TWIST

The story of Hanukkah is the story of oil—oil that miraculously lasted eight nights when there was only enough for one. Jewish cooks have honored that miracle by frying holiday foods, and latkes became the most beloved of all. In Eastern Europe, potatoes—cheap and abundant—were transformed into golden fritters, crisp at the edges and soft

Saba

The Windsor Court’s Grill Room

cream, they became a holiday symbol of survival and celebration.

At home, latkes are simple: shred potatoes and onions, squeeze out liquid, mix with egg and flour, then drop spoonfuls into hot oil. The sizzle in the pan echoes history, filling the kitchen with comfort. Of course, in local kitchens, latkes rarely stop at potatoes and sour cream, and our restaurants show how the latke stays true to its roots while also doubling as a canvas for Hanukkah and New Orleans flavors.

Chef Alon Shaya has offered elevated takes on the tradition, from latkes with crème fraîche and caviar at Miss River to abundant topping boards at Saba’s L’Chaim Lounge, featuring labneh, apple butter, pickled shallots, beet tahini, and whipped butter. The Windsor Court’s Grill Room brings formality to the table with a prix fixe Hanukkah Dinner. At his seasonal pop-up Latke Daddy, Adam Mayer stacks them with a wide variety of traditional and creative toppings and slaps on fun names including Shroomy Daddy (with oyster mushrooms and gravy), Bayou Daddy (with harissa crawfish étouffée), Ruski Daddy (with house-cured beet and gin salmon), and Beefy Daddy (with Mayer’s stepmom’s brisket).

BRISKET MEETS THE BAYOU

If latkes, crisp and welcoming, are the appetizer of Hanukkah, then brisket, rich and sustaining, is the main course.

In Eastern Europe, brisket was a tough, inexpensive cut, braised low and slow until sinew turned to silk and kitchens filled with onions, garlic, and carrots. When Jewish immigrants brought brisket to America, it stayed central to Hanukkah. In the South, the overlap with barbecue was irresistible—another culture that revered tough cuts made tender by time and fire. The Jewish brisket and the Southern brisket were cousins from the start.

At home, brisket is still a ritual. Sear the meat, nestle it in onions and broth, and let slow cooking do its work until it slices tender and rich, with a sauce that thickens into gravy. Leftovers—if there are any—taste even better the next day, reminding families that holiday food is built as much on memory as on meat. It’s about taking what you have and making it tender with care. In New Orleans, brisket finds a place everywhere—braised in a family oven, smoked in a barbecue pit, or dressed up in fine dining style.

At the Joint in the Bywater, it’s dryrubbed and smoked, sliced with that telltale pink ring and peppery bark—barbecue at its most soulful. At Tujague’s, one of the city’s oldest restaurants, brisket has appeared in Creole classics from boiled cuts in the 19th century to today’s hearty brisket bowls. At Boucherie, a Carrollton fine-dining favorite, brisket arrives as smoked Wagyu, plated with polish and global flair—proof that even the humblest holiday cut can be elevated to something elegant.

SWEET TRADITIONS

Sufganiyot

sweet, celebratory, and full of joy. These jelly-filled doughnuts weren’t always part of Hanukkah. They rose in 20th-century Israel, embraced as the holiday sweet because

they’re fried in oil, echoing the miracle at its heart. Powdered sugar on top, jam inside—a symbol of joy.

Making sufganiyot is a hands-on project. Mix a yeasted dough, let it rise, then roll and cut circles. They puff in hot oil until golden and then cool just enough to be filled with jam: strawberry, raspberry, or whatever fruit is close at hand. In New Orleans, bakers might swap in satsuma or blackberry preserves, even praline cream. A dusting of

them by the dozen, offering classic fillings such as jelly, custard, and chocolate to keep family tables stocked. Also, Ayu Bakehouse, celebrated for its challah and babka, has become part of local Hanukkah pastry roundups.

CARRYING THE LIGHT FORWARD Hanukkah in New Orleans shows how traditions travel and adapt. A latke topped with shrimp, brisket from a smokehouse,

The Joint

ON Réveillon

The Ultimate New Orleans Christmas Holiday Meal

By Andrew Marin

There’s no lack of festivity in New Orleans anytime, especially during the Halloween/Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year/Mardi Gras/St. Patrick’s Day/Festival Season marathon.

In December, you can go caroling in Jackson Square, celebrate in the oaks in City Park, or stroll by St. Charles Avenue’s well-decorated mansions. Holiday music is readily available at church concerts, jazz bars, or even just on a record player at home. Réveillon dinners are the perfect meal to get in the spirit.

Historically, Réveillon (“awakening” in French) is a late Christmas Eve dinner inherited from Catholic culture in France. Hispanic and Latin countries call it Nochebuena. Tradition from the 1800s calls for it to be served after midnight mass during the early hours of Christmas. Whether a family goes to bed before or stays up until Christmas morning to open presents under the tree was and remains a personal choice.

As Ann Masson writes in her book Réveillon History: “The event was actually more of a breakfast than a supper. Later in the day, a Christmas dinner was served in many households. Even during the stringent times of the Civil War, the French, sitting around the festive board, did their best to have as lively a Réveillon as possible.”

Picayune Newspaper, 25 December 1861

As the centuries went by, the original Réveillon tradition began to fade. Changing religious practices, increased secularization, and evolving social norms led many New Orleanians to abandon the late-night feasting. By the mid-1900s, Réveillon was nearly extinct, remembered primarily in nostalgic family stories or historical accounts.

Over the decades, however, New Orleans restaurants have adapted the tradition and extended

Réveillon de Noël by Carl Larsson c., 1904-1905

Muriel's Jackson Square

it through the month of December, with some places even serving it up until New Year’s Eve. These seasonal tasting menus, served during conventional dining service hours, are prix-fixe and often have recommended wine pairing menus.

The current versions originated with the French Quarter grande dame restaurants in the 1990s and have radiated throughout the city to restaurants of all cuisines and formality levels. New Orleans is renowned worldwide for its warm hospitality and distinctive, flavorful dishes. Modern Réveillon dinners are coursedout tasting menus that lean into heartier, seasonal, and more decadent ingredients to celebrate the holidays.

been serving Réveillon together for a very long time—decades of experience creating these menus. They truly understand the spirit of this special celebration.”

Alongside the usual tasso hams and Gulf shrimp, look for “Christmasy” ingredients such as chestnut stuffings, roasted duck or goose, and peppermint and cranberries sneaking into desserts. Old-school delicacies including daube glacé, turtle soup, oyster stew, and bûche de Noël really shine at this time of year. Coffee spiked with cognac or brandy is available yearround but comes to the forefront alongside eggnog and hot chocolate during this season.

She added that Muriel’s makes every effort to tie modern dining to New Orleans’ historic traditions, and Réveillon is no exception. “We’re a Creole restaurant right next to [St. Louis] Cathedral. It’s likely the celebration happened right here in our building back in the day.” She recommended having dinner at Muriel’s on one of the nights the CathedralBasilica of St. Louis, King of France hosts free Christmas concerts for “a fully immersive historical evening.”

If you want to celebrate the tradition at home in the wee hours, you can retreat back into the 1800s with egg dishes, homemade gumbos, and cakes or puddings. Or, if you want to create your own restaurant traditions, roll into your favorite local spot and have a festive meal with your loved ones. Ask what the seasonal specials are, and pour “the good stuff.”

Chef Tommy DiGiovanni called Réveillon an invitation to step into a beloved New Orleans tradition. “At Arnaud’s Restaurant, we welcome both new and longtime guests to a menu blending our classics with imaginative creations available only during the season.”

His Réveillon menus often include courses with wild mushroom risottos, quails, and chocolatey hazelnuts. “It’s all with the elegance of our historic dining rooms and signature hospitality. A celebration of flavor, festivity, and fun not to be missed.”

For locals such as Denise Gratia of Muriel’s Jackson Square, Réveillon is a deeply personal matter. “Rick [Gratia, her husband and managing partner] has a long history in Creole dining.” He and Muriel’s Chef Erik Veney worked together at Mr. B’s in the ‘80s. “They’ve

The Réveillon dinner is a shining example of New Orleans’ ability to preserve its past while embracing the present. From its 18th century French origins to its modern-day renaissance, Réveillon, like Mardi Gras, has grown beyond its Catholic roots. Today’s version is more cultural than strictly religious, inviting people of all backgrounds to partake in holiday feasting. It’s a way to showcase Creole cuisine, support local businesses, and keep a historic tradition alive in a dynamic, inclusive way.

New Orleans food has never been just food—it’s heritage, identity, and hospitality. Réveillon is a reflection of our city’s deep respect for tradition, its flair for celebration, and its ability to adapt old customs to fit new contexts. For locals, it’s a way to reconnect with roots and create new memories. For visitors, it’s a unique opportunity to experience a holiday tradition that can’t be found anywhere else in the United States.

Whether you’re in a candlelit restaurant in the French Quarter or cooking at home with family, a Réveillon dinner is more than just eating. It’s participating in a living tradition—a celebration of culture, community, and the enduring magic of New Orleans.

NewOrleans.com has the full list of officially participating Réveillon restaurants.

Arnaud's

FAST FOOD FIGHT

The Steak Taco

Tacos have become ubiquitous among Americans as the ultimate comfort food. In this edition of “Fast Food Fight,” we compared some of the top fast-food tacos around town to see which steak taco shines above the rest.

By Shane Finkelstein

CHIPOTLE

Multiple Locations | chipotle.com

A recent visit to Chipotle’s Magazine Street location found the chain short-staffed on a busy Saturday evening. Two employees handled online orders while one worker juggled the counter, leaving the dining room messy and service slow. Despite the chaos, the tacos impressed. We tried three beef options—steak, barbacoa, and a limited-time carne asada, which was the standout. Each came with a choice of six complimentary toppings such as fajita peppers, corn salsa, and pico de gallo. Guacamole and queso cost an extra $1.25 per taco, and tortillas are limited to flour or crunchy—no soft corn option. Mixing proteins adds $2.25, making the meal pricey. Online ordering doesn’t allow mixed proteins, either. Single: $4.35 | Three Tacos: $11.70

FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA

Multiple Locations | felipestaqueria.com

Felipe’s opened in 2006 near Tulane, immediately gaining a following for its lively bar with top-shelf tequilas and margaritas made with fresh key lime juice. Now with four local locations around town, it remains a solid pick for fast-casual tacos. The steak taco can be served on flour, corn, or crunchy tortillas with eight complimentary toppings—including guacamole—and five hot sauces. At the original Claiborne Avenue spot, we tried steak, al pastor, and carnitas tacos with pico de gallo, corn, pickled jalapeños, and guacamolillo sauce, all served on double corn tortillas. While tasty overall, the steak lacked seasoning, and we preferred the flavorful al pastor. The steak option also adds $0.75 to the base price.

Single: $4.45 | Double: $8.55 | Three Tacos: $13.35

IZZO’S ILLEGAL BURRITO

Multiple Locations | izzo’s.com

A Baton Rouge favorite, Izzo’s expanded to the New Orleans area with several locations, including Metairie and Harvey. At the Metairie restaurant, we ordered steak tacos on either 6” flour or 5” double corn tortillas. While protein options are limited, Izzo’s shines with customization—11 free toppings (including queso) and 10 sauces. At $2.95 per taco, the value is strong. The steak, however, was chopped too fine and lacked flavor. The achiote chicken and pulled pork fared better. Izzo’s offers great combo deals: two street tacos or three super tacos with chips, dip (including guac), and a drink for $8.95 and $12.50, respectively.

Single: $2.95 | Three Tacos: $8.85

PATY FOOD TRUCK

8800 Claiborne Ave. & 2801 Earhart Blvd. | patyfoodtruck.mobile

Paty Food Truck delivers true Mexican street tacos with 10 protein options, including rarities such as chicharrón (pork rind), lengua (tongue), tripa (tripe), and buche (pig craw). The steak tacos come on 4.5” homemade corn tortillas with Chihuahua cheese, cilantro, diced onion, and a side of verde sauce and lime. With so few ingredients, the meat’s flavor is crucial—and Paty’s nails it. These tacos are exactly what authentic street tacos should be, and at $2.50 each (tax included), they’re a steal. The Earhart location, recently upgraded with better parking and picnic tables, is the more comfortable stop.

Single: $2.50 | Three Tacos: $7.50

SALVAMEX & MI FRIDA

121 Jefferson Hwy.

Two taco trucks sit side by side on the parish line: SalvaMex, Salvadoran-owned, and Mi Frida, a Mexican counterpart. SalvaMex offers pupusas, tortas, tamales, and tacos with five meats—carne asada, pollo, pastor, barbacoa, and chorizo Their thick, homemade corn tortillas are topped with finely-diced carne asada, sautéed onions, cilantro, mild verde sauce, and, interestingly, a lemon wedge instead of lime. Mi Frida’s tacos are the better pick. Served on homemade corn tortillas with eight protein options, they come topped with grilled onions, cilantro, spicy verde sauce, lime, and a grilled serrano pepper on the side. Mi Frida also operates a second truck on General de Gaulle on the Westbank.

Single Tacos at Both Trucks: $3

TACO BELL

Various Locations | tacobell.com

Taco Bell has long been the gateway taco for generations of high schoolers. While its menu has grown, the classic taco remains unchanged—and unimpressive. Bland chopped steak when available, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and shredded cheddar come on a 6” flour or hard corn shell. You can boost flavor with hot sauce packets or one of six side sauces, including creamy jalapeño and spicy ranchero Taco Bell still satisfies late-night cravings when everywhere else is closed, but with so many authentic and affordable options around town, you no longer need to make a run for the border. Single Tacos $2.95

THE VERDICT:

Each contender brings something different to the table. Paty Food Truck stands out for authenticity, simplicity, and unbeatable value, proving that great tacos don’t need frills. Felipe’s offers the most balance—quality ingredients and a full bar—while Chipotle delivers reliably good meat despite operational hiccups. Izzo’s wins on value for variety and combos, and Mi Frida is a hidden gem for handmade tortillas and spice lovers.

As for Taco Bell, it may always have a place in American nostalgia—but when real tacos are this close and this good, there’s no going back to the drive-thru. Here’s to hoping that Torchy’s Tacos make it down to New Orleans in the near future.

Taco Bell

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FOOD NEWS

FOOD NEWS

A pastry by any other name . . . Gracious Bakery, the beloved New Orleans bakery launched in Gert Town by Megan and Jay Forman over a decade ago, is now under new ownership. Callais Capital Management, a Louisiana-based, venture capital investments firm, has purchased the bakery with promises to keep the croissants rolling. “We’ve been loyal customers of Gracious for years, and we know how much Gracious means to the community,” said Hal Callais, managing partner of Callais Capital Management. “Our goal is simple: Keep everything people love about Gracious exactly as it is and enhance wherever we can.” Loyal fans will surely let them know if anything slips. The first test of the bakery’s new management will tell all when the 2026 king cake season kicks off on January 6.

Multiple Locations, graciousbakery.com

Awe, shucks . . . Lorenzo Marrero, Pêche Seafood Grill’s oyster shucker and said “cornerstone” of the restaurant’s raw bar, has been named a 2025 Hospitality Hero in Food & Wine Magazine’s restaurant issue. In its inaugural year, the awards recognize those who embody the very concept of hospitality, going above and beyond to satisfy and offering guests a uniquely fabulous and educational experience. With over 20 years in the business, Marrero’s skill, expertise, and personality have made him an invaluable part of what diners love about Pêche. “Lorenzo has made a career out of shucking oysters,” said Nicole Cabrera Mills, chef de cuisine at Pêche. “People come to our oyster bar to hang with Zo. He delivers great service by talking about the different types of oysters and how they taste while shucking 300-plus a day.” Congratulations, Mr. Marrero. Your accolades are well-deserved.

800 Magazine St., (504) 522-1744, pecherestaurant.com

More pastry, please . . . Originally opened in 1982 by treasured French pastry chef Maurice Delechelle, Croissant D’Or Patisserie has long been a French Quarter standby. Now, after over 40 years, the bakery and café has expanded with a second location on Chartres Street.

Owners Hoa and Thu Nguyen are continuing the “old world” bakery tradition started by Delechelle with house made pastries, cakes and cookies, savory quiche, full breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches.

317 Chartres St., (504) 524-4663, croissantdorpatisserie.com

Back to school Flour Moon Bagels, the Lafitte Greenway’s answer to breakfast (and lunch), is bringing their boiled bready brilliance Uptown. In a move sure to make college students giddy, the bagelry will now have a mobile outpost at Tulane University—a food truck that can park on campus or be hired for events all over town. Owners Breanne Kostyk and her husband Jeff Hinson have the truck manned and ready to sling their signature breakfast bagel with egg, American and Muenster cheeses, and chili crisp mayo, as well as build-your-own, kettle-boiled bagels, to students and faculty in need of a great meal on the run. flourmoonbagels.com

Still makin’ groceries . . . Local grocer Langenstein’s, which was launched by Michael Langenstein and his sons George and Richard over a century ago, has sold all of its locations to Robért Fresh Market, another local grocery that’s been around since 1994. The Uptown Arabella Street location, not far from Audubon Park, has been an essential market for the surrounding community since the mid 1950s, and though many seem sad about the change in hands, others rejoice in the fact that there will still be a convenient grocery store just around the block.

Multiple Locations, robertfreshmarket.com

By Kim Ranjbar

Pelea de tacos . . . The founder of Tacos del Cartel, Danny Cruz of Veho Hospitality Group, has turned up the heat on Poydras Street with the opening of Taquerias Carnalito. The new, casual taco joint opened up in the old Reginelli’s Pizzeria spot right next to Johnny Sanchez. The menu offers “traditional” Mexican fare from trompos-style tacos (meat cooked on a vertical spit, kind of like gyro) with flavors such as al pastor (marinated pork), skirt steak and sirloin, “regular” carne asada, pollo asado, and nopales tacos, and “gringas,” which is kind of like a quesadilla. Carnalito also offers chips and queso, frozen margaritas, soft serve ice cream, and cinnamony churros. May the best taco win. 930 Poydras St., Ste 100, taqueriascarnalito.com

Ehi . . . Thaihey’s culinary genius Chef Orawin Yimchalam has just launched Padrona, a new traditional Italian food stall at St. Roch Market. The girl boss recently launched Thaifood, yet another stall at the Bywater food hall, and it’s amazing she even has time to breathe. While cooking at a fivestar hotel in Bangkok, Yimchalam learned from Italian chefs and was smitten, so much so it’s what she loves to cook at home. Her latest food stall is offering dishes such as shrimp pomodoro with fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil; fettuccine alfredo; and a fried eggplant parmigiano blossom.

2381 St. Claude Ave., @padronanola

Sushi in the suburbs . . . Kenji Omakase, the popular, refined Japanese restaurant at the International House Hotel, has opened another location in Old Metairie dubbed Kenji Kazoku (a.k.a. Kenji family). The partnership between Matthew Nguyen and former football player Malachi Dupre has obviously taken off. Now, the freshest selection of fish coming all the way from Japan will be available for all those suburban foodies in Metry.

2929 Metairie Rd., Metairie, @kenjikazoku

A rose by any other name . . . Chef Bansi Lal launched Mantra Indian Cuisine in the old City Diner space in Metairie in the midst of a pandemic, yet residents across the GNO still flocked for a taste. His reputation preceded him as the manbehind-the-magic at a Hammond gas station restaurant called Punjabi Dhaba. For reasons unknown (though there are some unsavory rumors circulating on Reddit), Bansi and his staff were evicted and are now looking to reopen in Mandeville. Meanwhile, the building’s owner has planted another chef at the Metairie location and re-launched the restaurant as Mantra Original Indian Cuisine. For Chef Bansi loyalists, keep an eye on the old Desi Vega’s Steakhouse in Mandeville for the original Mantra Indian Cuisine to reopen.

3116 S. I-10 Service Rd., Metairie, (504) 354-8349, mantraoriginalindiancuisine.com

MUSIC CALENDAR

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24

21st Amendment Jelly Roll Stompers

30/90 Dapper Dandies

Bacchanal Byron Asher

Bamboula’s Jon Roniger

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan Trio

Buffa’s David Doucet

Cafe Negril Gumbo Funk

Capulet T Marie, Bayou Juju

City of New Orleans Riverboat Dukes of Dixieland

Columns Hotel Stanton Moore Trio

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

D.B.A. The Jump Hounds

Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band

Dos Jefes John Fohl

French Market Alicia Renee

Fritzel’s Richard Scott

MRB Ben Buchbinder

Mahogany Jazz Hall Tom Hook

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Kermit Ruffins, Irvin

Mayfield

Preservation Hall Preservation Brass Saturn Bar BC Coogan

The Maison The New Orleans Rug Cutters

The Maple Leaf George Porter Jr.

Snug Harbor Davy Mooney Quinte

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz Club

The Jazz Playhouse Amber Rachelle

The Maison Paradise Jazz Band

The Rabbit Hole Rebirth

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26

21st Amendment The Funky Soles

30/90 Kayla Jasmine

Bacchanal Jesse Morrow

Bamboula’s Jacky Blair

Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Derek Douget

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Serabee Quartet

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan Trio

Bratz Y’all Chris Vincent

Buffa’s Black Dog

Cafe Negril Jason Neville

Café Degas Gizinti Trio

Capulet Washboard Chaz

Carousel Bar James Martin

City of New Orleans Riverboat Dukes of Dixieland

Commons Club After Five

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

D.B.A. Lagniappe Brass Band

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

30/90 Neicy B Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Bamboula’s Giselle Anguizola

Bayou Bar Peter Harris

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan Trio

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Capulet James Jordan

Chickie Wah Wah King Yellowman

SEVENDUST AT THE FILLMORE

Sevendust will be in NOLA for its “Southside DoubleWide” tour. The intense rock band has released 14 studio albums and has consistently charted on the Billboard 200. The group has been rockin’ out for over 30 years. Tuesday, December 9, 7 p.m., $62 to $179.35, thefillmorenola.com

Dew Drop Inn

Legends of Dew Drop

Fritzel’s Richard Scott

Irene’s Monty Banks

J’s Place New Groove Brass Band

Kermit’s Tremé Keep It Rolling Brass Band

Le Bon Temps Roule

Steve Kelly

MRB Lynn Drury

Mahogany Jazz Hall

Paul Longstreth Trio

Mayfield’s 208

Bourbon Irvin

Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins

Marsalis

Old Point Bar Rick Trolsen

Orpheum Theater LPO

Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars

Press Room Or Shovaly Plus

Snug Harbor Jason Marsalis

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

Sweet Lorraine’s Jazzmeia Horn

The Broadside The Iguanas

The Maison Shotgun Jazz Band

Tipitina’s Lost Bayou Ramblers

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

30/90 Jeff Chaz Blues

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

BMC The New Orleans Rug Cutters

Bacchanal Miles Berry

Bamboula’s Les Getrex

Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson

Blue Nile George Brown Band

Bratz Y’all Margie Perez

Buffa’s Crusty Jugglers

Cafe Negril Higher Heights

City of New Orleans Riverboat Dukes of Dixieland

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

D.B.A. Michael Watson, Dwayne Dopsie

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Fritzel’s Steve DeTroy Band

Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

Le Bon Temps Roule Killer Whale

Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French Trio

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Delfeayo

Marsalis

Press Room Or Shovaly Plus

Saenger Theatre Joe Bonamassa

Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band

The Maison Nola Axe Men

Tipitina’s Maggie Koerner

Tropical Isle Mark Barrett

The Rabbit Hole Rebirth

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3

Bourbon Street Drinkery

Justin Donovan Trio

Buffa’s Mason Howard Quartet

Cafe Istanbul Lilli Lewis, Ashley Beach

Café Degas Gizinti Trio

Capulet Brian Quezergue

Carousel Bar James Martin

Chickie Wah Wah American Aquarium

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

J’s Place New Groove Brass Band

Kermit’s Tremé Keep It Rolling Brass Band

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins

New Orleans Jazz Museum The Brave Acorn Band

St. Louis Cathedral Leroy Jones

Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4

BMC Mark Appleford

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30

Atchafalaya Jon Roniger

BJ’s James McClaskey

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Aurora Nealand

Capulet Mia Borders

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Gasa Gasa 156/Silence

Howlin’ Wolf TrentTruth Quartet

Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Kirk Whalum

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds

The Den TrentTruth Quartet

Tipitina’s Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Trombone Shorty Vaughan’s Corey Henry

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5

Bacchanal Willie Green

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Cafe Nola Neicy B

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Delfeayo Marsalis

City of New Orleans Riverboat Dukes of Dixieland

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

D.B.A. Kid Chocolate

Dos Jefes Tom Hook

Fritzel’s Colin Myers Orchestra

Holy Diver The Amazing Henrietta

Irene’s Monty Banks

Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins

No Dice Rushadicus

Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars

Saturn Bar Chris Acker

Orpheum Theater

Leslie Odom

Preservation Hall

Preservation All-Stars Snug Harbor

Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band

The Broadside Alexis and The Sanity

The Howlin’ Wolf Cory Phillips

Tipitina’s George Porter Jr.

Tropical Isle Bourbon Dave Ferrato

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Balcony Bar Mark Appleford, Smoky Greenwell

Bamboula’s Sugar & The Daddies

Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield, New Breed Brass Band

BMC Mark Appleford

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Cafe Degas Gizinti Trio

Capulet Washboard Chaz

Carousel Bar Leslie Martin

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Irene’s Monty Banks

Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels

Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars

The Howlin’ Wolf The Vibe Tribe

The Jazz Playhouse Brass-A-Holics

Tropical Isle Bourbon Mark Barrett

Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28

30/90 Andre Lovett

AllWays Lounge David Bode

BMC John Lisi

Bacchanal David Sigler

Bamboula’s Les Getrex

Bayou Bar Peter Harris

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Mem Shannon

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Washboard Chaz

Cafe Negril Jamey St. Pierre

City of New Orleans Riverboat Dukes of Dixieland

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Fritzel’s Richard Scott

H.O.B. OnlyHeaven

Irene’s Monty Banks

Le Bon Temps Roule Quarx

Mahogany Jazz Hall Kid Chocolate

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Delfeayo

Bacchanal Pete Olynciw

Bamboula’s The Jaywalkers

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Hobo Gadget Junk Band

Cafe Negril John Lisi

Carousel Bar The Iguanas

City of New Orleans Riverboat Dukes of Dixieland

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

D.B.A. Vegas Cola Band

Fritzel’s Sazerac Jazz Band

Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Jason Ricci

Orpheum Theater 112

Preservation Hall Leroy Jones

Saturn Bar Louis Michot

Snug Harbor Nick Solnick Trio

Spotted Cat Jacky Blaire

The Broadside The Lynn Drury Band

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

The Jazz Playhouse Richard Scott

The Maison Cry Babies

Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont

MONDAY, DECEMBER 1

30/90 Margie Perez

AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane

Apple Barrel Mark Appleford

Beandlandia Treme Brass Band

BJ’s Dick Deluxe

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Capulet Cristina Kaminis

D.B.A. Dwayne Dopsie

Le Bon Temps Roule Heavy Weather

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Southern Avenue

Santos Bar The Unnaturals

Smoothie King Center Brandy, Kelly Rowland

Spotted Cat Dirty Tuba, Paradise Jazz Band

The Broadside Pigeon Pit

Tipitina’s Johnny Sketch, Dirty Notes Undertow Show The Mynabirds

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

Big Couch Jeff McCormick

Buffa’s Meryl Zimmerman

Chickie Wah Wah The Desert Nudes

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

D.B.A. Sam Price

H.O.B. The Soul Rebels, Irma Thomas Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

Le Bon Temps Roule Paul Faith, Barstool Prophets

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Southern Avenue

Smoothie King Center Jonas Brothers, Jesse McCartney

Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band

Tipitina’s New Breed Brass Band

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7

BJ’s James McClaskey

Bacchanal Tangiers Combo

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band

D.B.A. Secret Six Jazz Band

Dos Jefe’s John Fohl

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Kermit Ruffins, Irvin

Mayfield

Southport Music Hall Ariel Pink

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Dos Jefe’s Tom Hook

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Kermit

Ruffins

Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars

Saenger Theatre 98 Degrees

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz Club

Buffa’s Some Like It Hot!

Chickie Wah Wah Son Little, Candi Jenkins

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Kermit’s Tremé The BBQ Swingers, TBC Brass Band

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Jane Monheit

No Dice Mary Mortem

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Tipitina’s Kristin Diable, Andrew Duhon

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8

AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane

Beandlandia Treme Brass Band

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan Trio

Capulet Susanne Ortner

Chickie Wah Wah Jake Xerxes Fussell

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band

D.B.A. Secret Six Jazz Band

MUSIC CALENDAR

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Kermit Ruffins, Irvin

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Bourbon

Buffa’s Alex McMurray, Susan Cowsill

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10

Bourbon

Marshall Band The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus

Tipitina’s Andy Frasco

Isle Bourbon Dave Ferrato

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11

KENNY GARRETT AT N.O. JAZZ & BLUES MARKET

Saxophonist and composer Kenny Garrett will be performing two shows in NOLA. In addition to being a NEA Jazz Master, Garrett was also previously a member of the Duke Ellington Orchestra and Miles Davis’ band.

Friday, December 12, 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m., $36.60-$62.40, jazzandbluesmarket.com

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Mark Appleford Bombay Club T Marie Trio Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin

Trio

Tom McDermott, Susanne Ortner

Capulet Mando Jazz

Chandelier Bar David Torkanowsky

Chickie Wah Wah Shovels & Rope

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels New Orleans Jazz & Blues

Market The Headhunters

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds

The Polo Club John Royen

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

BJ’s Louis Michot

Bacchanal Willie Green

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Tuba Skinny

Chickie Wah Wah Leroy Jones Quintet

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Fillmore Trivium

Le Bon Temps Roule Hash Cabbage

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Kenny

Garrett

Rivershack Tavern Casey Saba

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus

Tipitina’s Tank and The Bangas

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

BJ’s Kelcy Mae’s

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

D.B.A. Tuba Skinny

House of Blues Bricks In the Wall

Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

Le Bon Temps Roule Anna Q

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Maurice

‘Mobetta’ Brown

Bacchanal Tangiers Combo

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Some Like It Hot!

Carousel Bar The Iguanas

Commons Club Jeremy Phipps

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Kermit’s Tremé TBC Brass Band

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Matt Schofield

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus

Tigermen Den Jean Bertrand

Tipitina’s Hanukkah Funkstravaganza

MONDAY, DECEMBER 15

30/90 Margie Perez

AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane

Apple Barrel Mark

Rivershack Tavern Big Al and The Heavyweights

Spotted Cat Soul Brass Band

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

The Polo Club John Royen

Tipitina’s Dragon Smoke

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

Urban South T Marie

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Beanlandia Treme Brass Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Deutsches Haus Patrick Hennessey

H.O.B. Robert Earl Keen

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins

Spotted

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan Trio

Buffa’s Joe Krown Café Degas Gizinti Trio

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Deutsches Haus American Legion Band

J’s Place Neauxla New Groove Brass Band

Kermit’s Tremé Keep It Rolling Brass Band

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market

The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus Tropical Isle Bourbon Dave Ferrato Smoothie King Center Trans-Siberian Orchestra

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

BMC Mark Appleford

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Capulet Dylan Decker

Chandelier Bar David Torkanowsky

Chickie Wah Wah The Iguanas

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Gasa Gasa Catbite, Jaywood

Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Vanessa Collier

Peacock Room Da Lovebirds

The Polo Club John Royen

Tipitina’s Flow Tribe

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Bacchanal Willie Green

Banks St Hash Cabbage

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Jaime Bernstein

Chickie Wah Wah Alexis & The Sanity

Civic Theatre Girls Play Trumpet Too

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

D.B.A. The Jump Hounds

Gasa Gasa The Casualties

Le Bon Temps Roule The Team Players

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Brubeck

Brothers

Saenger Theatre Jagged Edge

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

The Broadside Fatter Than Albert, Bad

Operation

The Howlin’ Wolf Ryan Rogers

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus

Tipitina’s Marc Broussard, Joe Stark

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

Buffa’s T Marie

Chickie Wah Wah Jourdan Thibodeaux

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

D.B.A. James Andrews, Tuba Skinny

H.O.B. Steel Panther

Joy Theater Bela Fleck

Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

Le Bon Temps Roule Reverend Rob B.

Mortimer

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market Ghost-Note

Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

The Polo Club John Royen

Tipitina’s Anders Osborne

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21

Bacchanal Wine Tangiers Combo

Bombay Club T Marie

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk Bad

Sandys

Buffa’s Pfister Sisters

Commons Club Jeremy Phipps

Crescent City Brewhouse New

Orleans Streetbeat

D.B.A. Wild Magnolias

Kermit’s Tremé TBC Brass Band

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market

Lindsey Webster

St. Louis Cathedral Cathedral Choir

The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus

Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

MONDAY, DECEMBER 22

AllWays Lounge Betsy Propane

Beanlandia Treme Brass Band

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin

Donovan

James Spotted Cat Smoking Time

Jazz Club

The Polo Club John Royen

The Rabbit Hole Rebirth

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Sporty’s Brass Band

D.B.A. Secret Six Jazz Band

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield

The Polo Club David Boeddinghaus

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Mayfield’s 208 Bourbon Irvin Mayfield, Kermit

Ruffins

New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market José

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24

Bourbon Street Drinkery Justin Donovan

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Dutch Alley Johnette Downing

Kermit’s Tremé Keep It Rolling Brass Band

The Jazz Playhouse Big Sam

The Maison Leroy Marshall

Tropical Isle Dave Ferrato, Mike Lemmler

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25

Apple Barrel Bubbles Brown

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Le Bon Temps Roule Soul Rebels

Tropical Isle Bryan Ory

LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE

AMAZING ACRO-CATS

December 4-21 | rockcatsrescue.org/tourschedule

The “Acro-Cats Meowy Catmas Special” will be returning to the AllWays Lounge, with cats doing seasonal tricks including riding a sleigh and jumping through wreaths. The Amazing Acro-Cats show combines service, felines, and entertainment all together. The event is put on by Rock Cats Rescue, a nonprofit that works to support cats through education training, rescue, and adoption. The eccentric show features a troupe of cats with a variety of talents. Attendees can expect a spectacle that sees furry friends riding skateboards, jumping through hoops, and even playing in a band. General admission tickets and VIP options are available.

PLAQUEMINES PARISH ORANGE FEST

December 5-7 | orangefestival.com

Serving up rich history, the Plaquemines Parish Fair and Orange Festival started as an effort to preserve the orange industry in the parish. Now, the festival stands tall, hosting days of fun for the community. The three-day event, which promotes the delicious citrus, features live music, carnival rides, games, food, appearances from the festival’s royalty, and a variety of other activities for the family to enjoy. This year’s musical lineup includes BC Boyz Band, Paper Chase, Louisiana Landfall, and more. The celebration of the beloved fruit will take place at historic Fort Jackson in Buras, LA.

JEFFERSON PERFORMING ARTS’ RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER

December 5-14 | jpas.org/performance/rudolph

The Jefferson Performing Arts Society will be performing a holiday classic for the season at the Jefferson Parish Arts Center in Metairie. Witness the JPAS’s musical adaptation of Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer, based on the animated TV special. JPAS, experienced in delivering all kinds of programming, aims to fill the theater with Christmas joy. The show will be directed by Kris Shaw and feature all of your favorite characters, such as Santa and Mrs. Claus, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Hermey the Elf, and the iconic Rudolph. Tickets start at $38.75. Visit JPAC’s website for details on specific showtimes.

COMPETE 4 CAUSE CLASSIC AT SMOOTHIE KING CENTER

December 13 | smoothiekingcenter.com/events/detail/ compete-4-cause-classic

The Smoothie King Center will serve as a home to bridge college basketball and community service at the Compete 4 Cause Classic. The showcase, organized by United Sports Entertainment, looks to bring out a high level of competition. Women’s basketball starts the epic showdown at 5 p.m. with the LSU Tigers taking on the LA Tech Lady Techstars. The men follow at 7:30 p.m. with a rivalry matchup between the LSU Tigers and SMU Mustangs. Aiming to foster community, the event also provides student-athletes with the opportunity to empower underrepresented youth in NOLA.

With cool breezes and sunny days, it’s the perfect season to cast a line, take an eco-tour through our scenic wetlands, or enjoy a weekend getaway along Louisiana’s beautiful delta coast. Don’t miss the Plaquemines Parish Fair & Orange Festival at historic Fort Jackson, December 5–7, 2025 — a celebration of local culture, food, music, and fun.

Come see why Plaquemines Parish is Louisiana’s best-kept secret for fishing, adventure, and relaxation!

FALL EVENTS

Plaquemines Parish Christmas Festival • Nov. 29 Plaquemines Orange Festival, Fort Jackson • Dec. 5–7

Christmas in the Park • Dec. 20 Market in the Park, Jesuit Bend • Dec. 20 For a complete of events visit PlaqueminesParishTourism.com Visit PlaqueminesParishTourism.com

ALL THAT JINGLES

Christmas Concerts in NOLA

By Sabrina Stone

There’s no shortage of ways to spend the holidays in New Orleans: parades, parties, dance performances, park festivities, tree and menorah lightings, musicals, markets, ballet, burlesque, bonfires, concerts, caroling, cabaret, Acro-Cats, and more. It’s an embarrassment of options.

So we are bringing you three holiday concert fundraisers where you can celebrate with the whole family and donate to charitable causes: Trombone Shorty Foundation’s Tunes for Toys: Toy Drive and Concert, the NOCCA Foundation’s Home for the Holidays, and Harry Shearer and Judith Owen’s Christmas Without Tears: 20th Anniversary Holiday Extravaganza.

TROMBONE SHORTY FOUNDATION’S TUNES FOR TOYS

TOY DRIVE AND CONCERT

Date: December 4; Location: Tipitina’s; Admission: Free with new toy donation

TOYS FROM TROY

Date: December 6; Location: Warren Eastern; Admission: Free

Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews is a New Orleans staple and synonymous with the city. As a musician and a philanthropist, his impact on our city is wide-reaching. On Jazz Fest posters, at the White House during the Obama administration, at the GRAMMYs, on TV shows, in films, as a muppet on Sesame Street, as a float on Mardi Gras, and as a children’s book author, he is inescapable and has been since 4 years old when he performed at his first New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and he’s played there nearly every year since. The annual holiday event he hosts is actually two events: Tunes for Toys Toy Drive concert on Thursday evening at Tipitina’s and Toys from Troy, a toy giveaway at Warren Easton on the following Saturday morning.

Students of all ages from the Trombone Shorty Academy will be performing at Tunes for Toys Toy Drive nighttime concert event, which includes beginner, intermediate, and advanced ensembles. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band will also be headlining. It’s a toy drive concert, filled with brass, so the theme is the spirit of giving and the warmth of the holidays. Because there is a bar, attendance is 18+.

Toys from Troy is open to the community. There will be a bounce house, a Santa, Andrews will be signing his books, and, of course, free toys will be distributed. The toys that were collected at the concert are free for children under 12 to choose from, but there’s also plenty of family fun to be had.

NOCCA’S HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Date: December 6; Location: House of

Blues

New Orleans

The New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, aka NOCCA, is the training ground for many of Louisiana’s most successful working musicians and artists, including

the aforementioned Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. More than a high school, the pre-professional arts training center is an important resource for our city, providing free education to local students who show promise in their future field, be it dance, theater, visual art, music, culinary arts, or creative writing. The NOCCA Foundation is the school’s nonprofit partner, which raises funds to keep their supplies flowing, to bring visiting artists to the classrooms, to support summer training programs, to build practical projects including Press Street Gardens, and to offer concerts, art classes, and literary and gallery events to the community.

The NOCCA foundation’s yearly celebration concert “Home for the Holidays” is a large part of those fundraising endeavors, and this year will be featuring four major heavy hitters: Irma Thomas, Big Freedia, Kermit Ruffins, and the Soul Rebels. The NOCCA foundation is partnering with the Daniel Price Memorial Fund for Aspiring Artists, which creates scholarships in honor of visual artist and NOCCA alum Daniel Price, who was taken from the world in 2003 at the start of his promising career. As well as supporting high school age students, this particular foundation also creates scholarship funds for remarkable graduates in order to help them further their arts studies in college. So far, this annual event has raised $700,000 for these admirable endeavors.

HARRY SHEARER AND JUDITH OWEN’S CHRISTMAS WITHOUT TEARS: 20TH ANNIVERSARY HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA

Date: December 16; Location: Orpheum Theater

For two decades, actor/comedian/musician Harry Shearer and musician Judith Owen have spent every holiday season fundraising for charitable causes. This year, in honor of their 20th Anniversary Extravaganza, they will be supporting the Innocence Project of New Orleans.

Best known for voicing some of your favorite and least favorite characters on The Simpsons (Ned Flanders, Smithers, and Mr. Burns, among others) and for his big screen performances in Christoper Guest’s This is Spinal Tap, A Mighty Wind, and For Your Consideration, Shearer is a big deal. Just this year, Shearer’s fame skyrocketed back up again when he returned to his role as Derek Smalls in Spinal Tap II: The End Continues

Welsh-born singer-songwriter Judith Owen has been releasing albums since 1996. She once appeared as an animated version of herself in honor of The Simpsons’ 600th episode. Owen has toured in France, Ireland, Norway, Germany, Italy, Austria, Sweden, and the UK and has put out over a dozen albums. Shearer and Owen have been married for 32 years, launched their own record label 20 years ago, and began hosting these annual charity shows at that same time. Whichever event you choose, these three embody the giving spirit of the holidays and are sure to be evenings filled with music, love, and joy.

VERSATILE ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

FIRE & WATER

The Algiers Bonfire & Concert Celebration

By Celeste Turner

Come experience the towering bonfire, savor local flavors, and enjoy artisan shopping for a festive night on the river.

Imagine a brilliant blaze lighting up the banks of the Mississippi River, casting a glow over the city skyline and sparking the start of the holiday season for all to enjoy.

Free and open to the public, the Algiers Bonfire and Concert has been a beloved Louisiana tradition since 2016, which features a 30-foot sculptural bonfire, live musical performances, food from local vendors, and a holiday market with artisan shopping.

Hosted by the Algiers Economic Development Foundation, this community celebration will be held on December 6 at 200 Morgan St. on the Algiers batture, the land between the river and the levee. Recognized as the largest bonfire in New Orleans, the Algiers Bonfire and Concert unites locals and visitors for a night of music, food, and a giant bonfire on the levee, lighting the way for Papa Noël, the Cajun Santa Claus, on his airborne journey.

Although the tradition of lighting bonfires dates back to the 1880s, the bonfire structure has evolved over the years. Today, the designs are more imaginative and creative, with a focus on the effigy, or bonfire centerpiece, which is admired for its artistic detail and grandeur before going up in flames. “You can see it from many miles away,” said Eric Arvidson, the lead artist and fabricator for the Algiers Bonfire and Concert. “The effigy is a 25 to 30-foot-tall structure, which produces a 60-foot flame burning at one point. It is a substantial fire for about 15-20 minutes. You can watch it from across the river on the Eastbank.”

Arvidson pointed out that the bonfire design for last year resembled a big arched stone structure created as a tribute to the 2024 Paris Olympics. “We try to mix up the designs to evoke excitement from the crowds. Some effigies have a lot of detail like the Victorian house we built in 2018,” said Arvidson. “This year’s design is a surprise. We are always thinking of ways to create something iconic.”

Arvidson, assisted by a group of burners, will construct the sculptural design off-site and transport it in large pieces for the final assembly at Algiers Point. “It takes three months to build it,” Arvidson, who is also a member of the Fire Team of the Burning Man organization, said. “The new wood for the basic structure comes from Home Depot or Lowe’s, and the reclaimed wood is sourced from the Greater New Orleans and Algiers businesses.”

For many, this dazzling display marks a familyfriendly kickoff to the holidays, highlighting Algiers as both a historic landmark and a growing center for business, art, and community life. As one of New Orleans’ oldest neighborhoods, Algiers also benefits economically from the bonfire event.

“This yearly celebration boosts Algiers’ pride [and] sparks economic growth by supporting local vendors, attracting tourists and highlighting the

Westbank’s importance to New Orleans’ cultural and economic future,” emphasized LaVerne Toombs, interim executive director of the Algiers Economic Development Foundation.

Local vendors including Shawntell Manuel, owner of the Big Dog BBQ on the Go, have worked with the Algiers Economic Development Foundation for several years and look forward to the Algiers Bonfire and Concert. “It is always a pleasure to serve my community,” said Manuel, whose business is located in Algiers at 3146 General Meyers Ave. “I have been doing festivals since 2013, but I love Algiers because the people are great, and everybody knows me. A lot of people enjoy my specialty ‘Jakamein’ because it keeps them warm until they set up the fire.”

According to Manuel, “Jakamein,” which is a combination of noodles, eggs, beef, green onions, and broth, is only one of her many food items she serves up at the bonfire. “I have homemade burgers called Mardi Gras burgers, which is a local favorite,” Manuel said. “Some other tasty dishes are ribs, pulled-pork sandwiches with coleslaw, smoked sausage, and chargrilled oysters. I love the bonfire because you can see all the families gather together.”

Charles Langford, another local vendor and owner of Charlie’s Waxworks, eagerly awaits the event each year. “My favorite part is the bonfire itself,” said Langford, who sells body fragrances, candles, incense, and soap. “You can feel the energy ramp up because everyone is anticipating the fire. It is an unifying experience where the community comes together and symbolically burns away the stressors of the day.”

Last year, the crowd was substantial, with nearly 5,000 people in attendance, according to Toombs. In addition to the on-site parking, Toombs recommends arriving via the Algiers Ferry, which will offer extended hours of operation and is located adjacent to the event grounds.

Food trucks and local vendors showcasing arts and crafts will be open from 4:30 to 8 p.m., with the bonfire tentatively scheduled to ignite between 7 and 7:30 p.m. “It’s dark when we light the fire,” Arvidson said. “The musical second line proceeds from the stage and brings the attention to the bonfire.”

Rest assured, the event is safe and monitored by the New Orleans Fire Department. Bring your chairs and relax on the levee to soak in the bonfire display as music, food, and culture merge in a vibrant celebration of holiday magic.

“You’ll see a lot of families with strollers and groups of people who come out for the music and take a look at all the vendors,” Langford said. “But, it’s the bonfire that brings everyone together.”

THE BACKBEAT OF

Francis’ Legacy at the Backstreet Cultural Museum

In the middle of Tremé, the oldest African American neighborhood in the country, sits a little building with a big job. What’s that job? It’s keeping the memory of New Orleans culture alive.

By Kimmie Tubré & Burke Bischoff

The Backstreet Cultural Museum isn’t the quiet, “don’t-touch” kind of museum. It’s a place where culture is still moving.

The story starts with Sylvester “Hawk” Francis, a Seventh Ward native who decided in the 1970s that somebody had to keep track of what was happening in the streets. Francis picked up a Super 8 camera and went where the culture went. He would attend second lines, jazz funerals, and Mardi Gras Masking Indian parades. He wasn’t just watching, he was also a part of it, having been part of a social aid and pleasure club. “Before 1999, he had a heavy presence in the culture already, pretty much documenting films and photos of cultural events such as Mardi Gras Indian parades, jazz funerals, second lines,” Dominique Dilling, executive director of Backstreet Cultural Museum and Sylvester Francis’ daughter, said.

Francis’ goal was simple—making sure Black New Orleans could see itself. Every parade, every Big Chief suit, every kid dancing behind the band—all of these things—he caught it all on film.

“During his time of parading, he was approached by a photographer who actually tried to charge him for his own photograph, and that didn’t sit well with him,” Dilling said. “That’s what gave him that extra drive to kinda start documenting and photographing and filming the culture.”

By 1999, Francis turned his collection into a permanent home. With help from family such as his sister Elvera Touro, friends such as Joan Rhodes, and culture bearers such as Big Chief Victor Harris, he originally opened the Backstreet Cultural Museum in a former Tremé funeral home called Blandin. That previous location made sense. Not only had Francis previously

worked at Blandin, that was a place where the deceased were remembered, and he was committed to keeping the culture alive.

“[The culture bearers] were so appreciative of the photo and film collection that he would always keep two copies of [documentation] and give to that person free of charge,” Dilling said. “So, in return, they were like, ‘Well here’s my second line suit, here’s my umbrella, here’s my hat.’ Whatever they had, they gave it to him with a story.”

When you step inside of the museum, now in its new location at 1531 St. Philip St. since 2022 after the original location was damaged by Hurricane Ida, you’ll see Masking Indian suits that took a year or more to sew, photos of jazz funerals, parade flyers, and instruments that once led processions through the streets. It feels less like a museum and more like a community front room, the kind of place where stories get passed down and history isn’t distant, yet it’s right there with you.

Backstreet is where Masking Indians, Baby Dolls, social aid and pleasure clubs, and second liners all get their shine. Elders drop by to tell stories while kids come to learn where they come from and visitors leave knowing New Orleans a little better.

The museum became more than a collection. It became a gathering place. Every Mardi Gras morning, the Northside Skull and Bone Gang has started its walk from Backstreet’s front door, in skull masks and skeleton suits, waking up the neighborhood with their annual reminder that life is short, so live it right.

When someone donates a suit, a tambourine, or even a photo, it’s not just an object, it is a piece of the city. Those gifts keep the story growing.

Sylvester “Hawk” Francis kept going until the end. Even when his health started to slip, he worked on a book about jazz funerals, determined

to honor the mix of grief and joy that makes those processions so unique. He passed away on September 1, 2020—10 days before his 74th birthday. His funeral was exactly the kind of sendoff he’d spent his life recording: music, dancing, and a brass band leading him home.

“It was his daily life,” Dilling said. “It wasn’t something that he was being paid to do. It was his personal passion, so I know it meant a lot to him. Right now, today, it means a lot to me for me to continue to just to carry out his legacy of it.”

Today, the museum is still standing strong. Dilling and a dedicated crew make sure Backstreet not only stays open but that it also keeps growing. “Before he passed, the only thing that he would always tell me, ‘When I’m gone, do it your own way.’ He said, ‘I did it my way for over 20 years. It was my dream—nobody else’s dream but my own.’ He said, ‘So when I’m gone, do it the way you need to do it to maintain [it].’ He said, ‘And if it doesn’t work out for you the way it worked out for me, I’m not mad, you know, because I had it. I had it. I lived my dream. I made it work. Although I’m passing it down to you, just do what you can do.’ And I have done that by adding just little tweaks to it, putting my own little twist on adding different layers of the culture, to keep it going,” Dilling said.

Visiting Backstreet isn’t just about seeing costumes and photos. It’s about feeling what they mean. You walk out understanding that New Orleans culture isn’t a thing of the past. It’s still parading down the street, still playing the horns, still dressing in feathers and beads, and still second lining.

The next time you’re in Tremé, step inside and witness the cultural experience for yourself. For more information about the museum, or to make a donation or become a member, visit backstreetmuseum.org

BRICK, POWER, ELEGANCE BRICK, POWER, ELEGANCE &

Long neglected, the former New Orleans Public Service Inc. building in the Central Business District was reborn a decade ago as the luxury NOPSI Hotel and continues to shine as a landmark in the city’s skyline.

The Story of the NOPSI Hotel

The Story of the NOPSI Hotel

By Kim Ranjbar

The nine-story brick landmark at Baronne and Union, built in 1927 by the Louisiana firm Favrot & Livaudais, had long languished in neglect. Its once-proud façade had been marred by peeling paint, graffiti, and rusting ironwork. Behind its faded exterior lay a storied past. It was the former headquarters of New Orleans Public Service Inc., the gas, electric, and transit company that left an indelible mark on the city—far beyond the manhole covers that still bear its name.

After a year-long, $33 million renovation, the luxury 217-room NOPSI Hotel, operated by Salamander Hotels & Resorts, opened in early summer 2017 with a grand ceremony featuring distinguished guests such as New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu and Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. Also in attendance were several former executives and employees of New Orleans Public Service Inc. “It’s so amazing and enriching for us to be able to take [visitors] through the building,” Ellen LeMaire, general manager of NOPSI Hotel, said. “I think everyone who has come through has been really happy about how respectful the renovation has been and how it speaks to the history of the building.”

Connecticut-based developer Building and Land Technology purchased the property for $11.6 million and brought in local firm Woodward Design + Build to lead the renovation. Restoring a structure that had sat vacant for more than three

decades came with no shortage of obstacles. The adjoining building—now home to the hotel’s restaurant, Public Service, formerly the Jackson Homestead Association—was so deteriorated it had to be demolished and reconstructed from the ground up. “The roof and ceiling had caved in, water was pouring inside, and, structurally, it just couldn’t be saved,” Tom Abernathy, project executive at Woodward Design + Build, recalled. “That was one of the first challenges—removing and rebuilding an identical structure within that same narrow footprint.”

Even with these difficulties, the NOPSI Hotel emerged gloriously from the dust and debris, bringing the past into the present while simultaneously forging a way forward into the future. One of the most talked about features of NOPSI, both past and present, is the palatial lobby that still features the intricately designed terrazzo flooring. “We kept that original flooring and patched it where we had problems,” Abernathy said. “We love the way the floor looks, especially in its imperfectness.” The lofty vaulted ceilings, columns, and capitals are other details that remained from the original structure.

Equally striking is the Dryades Ballroom, defined by its exposed brick walls and soaring multi-paned windows. “The owner, together with the Historic District Landmarks Commission, decided to preserve those original windows,” Abernathy noted.

What steals the spotlight, however,

DON’T MISS

is not the classical detailing but the boldly modern, industrial-chic ceiling, complete with exposed ductwork and, most notably, a full-scale crane. “The Dryades Ballroom was originally an electrical substation packed with heavy-duty switchgear and equipment,” Abernathy explained. “The overhead crane, which remains today, was once used to hoist those massive components in and out.”

Along with amenities such as spacious, accommodating guestrooms with everything from hypoallergenic bed linens to iPod docking stations, guests of the NOPSI Hotel also have access to a fitness center, concierge services, and 24-hour in-room dining. The hotel offers 76 suites,

including four spa suites with access to generous terraces overlooking the Caesars Superdome. Guests can also be assured their four-footed traveling companions won’t be left out in the cold. NOPSI’s expansive, pet-friendly policies incorporate everything your pet might need, from a plush dog bed and a chef-crafted doggie menu to suggestions where you and your buddy can hang out such as nearby parks, pet-friendly bars, and grooming services.

Both visitors and locals are invited to experience NOPSI Hotel’s signature dining destination, appropriately dubbed Public Service. The “casual-yet-sophisticated” restaurant is fronted by a two-story glass facade and features a custom-built craft

cocktail bar and an open kitchen. “We want the local community to feel welcome,” LeMaire said. “We’ve got a good happy hour and the chef has spent a lot of time developing a menu that honors our local cuisine.” Chef Adam Korbel has created a contemporary menu featuring dishes such as Louisiana duck gumbo, boudin fritters, crab-stuffed flounder, and fried shrimp, catfish, and oyster po-boys.

NOPSI also features a stunning rooftop pool and bar, a worthwhile trend among hotels in the Warehouse District and CBD. “At Above the Grid, the views are phenomenal and it’s just a really cool setting, one that no other rooftop has in the city,” LeMaire said. “We want people to come and enjoy the view if they’re going to stay the night or just to take a look at the skyline.”

At Henry’s Gin Bar + Backyard, located in the hotel lobby, visitors will be transported back to the 1800s when Henry C. Ramos, one of our city’s famed bartenders, created the Ramos Gin Fizz—a complex, sweet, and sour concoction with orange flower water and egg white froth.

Excitement over NOPSI’s transformation into a luxury hotel is still palpable nearly a decade after its reopening—not just among nostalgic locals and visiting guests but also within the hotel staff itself. “The employees are so connected and enthusiastic about being a part of this hotel,” LeMaire said. “They want to understand its history and are proud to carry forward what their parents and grandparents once knew it to be.”

ART FOR THE HOLIDAYS

FREE ADMISSION FOR LOUISIANA RESIDENTS ALL YEAR LONG

Art is the gift that keeps on giving. Explore some of New Orleans’ most beloved cul tural institutions and spread the cheer this holiday season.

THEHELISFOUNDATION ORG #ARTFORALL

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

Experiences While in Louisiana

By Emily Hingle

The relationship between man and animal is ancient. Humans domesticated wild animals to become our beloved pets, and zoos and aquariums are helping to conserve endangered animals.

Not only can you have a fun time interacting with animals, it can also be therapeutic. It’s not uncommon to see emotional support animals roaming the halls of hospitals and nursing homes, delivering smiles and comfort to those enduring difficult times. Even prisoners are finding rehabilitation by training former shelter dogs to become service animals.

There are several places in Louisiana where animal lovers can interact with domesticated, farm, and captive animals.

Magnolia Wilds in Ethel, north of Baton Rouge, is actually three different parks. Native wildlife freely roams the Magnolia Ridge Adventure Park while thrill seekers fly on the zipline and aerial courses. You can experience more exotic creatures at the Safari Park from the comfort of an open-air wagon. Zebras, Watusis, ostriches, wildebeests, and more will mosey up to you for a snack. Barn Hill Preserve is where to go for immersive animal encounters and to learn all about the animals you’re meeting one-on-one. The Wild Discovery Tour provides you with an educator who brings several animals, including otters, armadillos, and sloths, to you.

For even more fun, add a swim with an Asian small-clawed otter to your tour. Grown-ups can enjoy the occasional Sip with Sloths, where adults are invited to drink wine and roam the park while encountering animals and hanging out with docile sloths.

Disabled children and adults can enjoy the benefits of riding horses thanks to the Greater New Orleans Therapeutic Riding Center. This non-profit organization has invited differently-abled people to take rides on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at the farm, located in LaPlace, for over 30 years. GNOTRC stated about their unique service, “To see children and adults with disabilities ride horses is truly an unforgettable experience. Not only do they sit taller and smile more, they extend their dreams beyond the confines of their disabilities into new, unexplored worlds.” Patrons can also enjoy some goat time during Kiddin’ Around. The goat encounter is an agri-playtime initiative in which you can pet and feed baby goats for 30 minutes or a full hour.

Global Wildlife Center in Robert has been driving group safaris around the reserve for a long time. Every day of the week, you can pay a visit to meet reticulated giraffes, Bactrian camels, bison, and llamas awaiting you on the open prairie that they freely roam. The friendly animals will come right up to you if you have snacks for them. The private tour option gets you even closer to the animals in a Pinzgauer truck.

As part of the personal encounters, you can hang out with cute capybaras for

half an hour. The largest rodents in the animal kingdom will even paint a picture for you that you can take home. You can also walk into the red kangaroo enclosure for a hoppin’ good time. The African spurred tortoises aren’t as fast as the other animals, but they’ll love you if you feed them some veggies.

People have been visiting animals at Audubon Zoo for over 100 years. Rather than just seeing them from afar in their enclosures, the zoo offers several ways to get closer to some of the wild beasts. The giant Aldabra tortoises are probably the oldest zoo residents that you can encounter. While you feed them veggies with a pair of tongs, you’ll learn all about how the staff takes care of them day to day. Also available for an unforgettable meeting and tong feeding are orangutans and three Louisiana black bears. Reina and Valerio, the resident jaguars, will let you enter their world for a close, but no-touch, encounter. These wild cats would love to take some food off of a skewer or tongs that you’ll be holding, however. The Southern white rhino is a little too big for civilians to feed, even with tongs, but your encounter will take you into the back of their habitat for a close look.

The Audubon Aquarium opened its doors in 1990, and it holds fond memories for many New Orleanians, young and old. However, most of these visitors never had the pleasure of getting very close to some of the animals that are available for an encounter. The popular penguins are ready to get some pets and take pictures with you. The endangered African penguins will hang out with you for 45 minutes. Put on a wetsuit and affix a snorkel to take a dive into the lively Mayan reef. Over 30 species of colorful marine life, including cownose rays, will swim around you for over an hour.

People seeking something less wet and wild will enjoy watching a butterfly’s first flight at the Audubon Insectarium inside the Audubon Aquarium. You can release a butterfly newly emerged from its cocoon into a secure habitat while learning all about its care and conservation efforts.

Whether you’re really excited about your animal encounter or a little bit nervous about getting this close, always remember to be kind to these creatures and exercise patience. The more you relax, the more you will get out of the experience.

The Future of Shopping Malls in Greater New Orleans

According to Alan Erhenhaldt’s 2024 governing.com piece “The Once & Future Shopping Mall,” the pinnacle of the traditional mall was in the 1980s and ‘90s, with the height of construction being in 1982.

By Joel Mandina

After several economic crises, the development and rise of online shopping, and the global pandemic, what was once an American, ideal “Third Space”—a space that is neither home nor work, according to sociologist Ray Oldenburg in his 1989 book The Great Good Place—has devolved into unoccupied and empty spaces.

From ski slopes in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates—that trend is now in effect in New Jersey at American Dream, the second largest mall in the country—and Germany’s merger of retail, entertainment, and transportation, with malls and train stations merging, “the mall” is an entity that is continuously adapting in this world of digital retail.

New Orleanians are a literal bunch. From the “Daiquiri Shoppe” to the “Nail Place,” we use monikers that succinctly summarize places and things. With that in mind, we shall delve into the history, and futures, of the Riverwalk, Canal Place, Lakeside, Esplanade, and Oakwood malls.

WALKING DAT WALK

For people of a certain age group, the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk has a certain place in the NOLA psyche. As the site of a traumatizing riverboat run-in in 1992, going to Riverwalk was an experience. With massive construction planned for the Riverfront District, including connecting Governor Nichols Wharf through Waldenberg Park to the Riverwalk and Convention Center, the Riverfront District should become the longest consecutive “river walk” in the United States.

Further cementing the proliferation of multi-use development, the new District is also planning a new Omni Hotel, as well as an amphitheater. This will be similar to the Grove in Los Angeles, another multi-use, multi-space venue. Entertainment Tonight frequently broadcasts from there, so someone alert Sheba Turk.

FANCY MEETING YOU HERE

Typically billed as New Orleans’ “highest-end shopping center,” located at 1 Canal Pl., Canal Place has the highest percentage of luxury stores, including Saks 5th Avenue, Louis Vuitton, and Mignon Faget. Crystal brand Swarovski also recently opened, with General Manager Matt Brown saying, “Swarovski’s arrival further enhances Canal Place’s commitment to an unparalleled luxury shopping experience, complementing our existing roster of prestigious brands.”

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY, AND ALL DAT

Having turned 65-years-old in 2025, Lakeside Mall is New Orleans’ quintessential shopping experience with over 100 stores such as Abercrombie & Fitch, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Sephora, and Macy’s.

Another offering of Lakeside’s is a restaurant famous for its ample menu—the Cheesecake Factory. Dubbed the “the Cheesecake Effect,” almost any mall that still makes a profit now has a Cheesecake Factory. A 2023 Moody’s Analytics report found that about 93% of loans backed by malls with a Cheesecake Factory were current, compared to only 72% for malls without one. Lakeside is a lynchpin of Metairie’s retail economy, which also includes Clearview Mall and which has a larger footprint than Lakeside—although Lakeside is the largest “indoor” mall in town. With Jefferson Parish having turned 200 this year, it continues to have a large economic impact, with FOX 8 citing Lakeside as “the number one sales tax driver for Jefferson Parish.”

“WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU REOPEN?”

Another suburban-based #SprawlMall is Esplanade Mall in Kenner, off of the Williams Boulevard exit. Having been shuttered since August 2021, the rumor mill surrounding a reopening has been in full-effect, with a story by reporter Thanh Truong pondering if the site would become an IKEA.

“We have been in discussions with IKEA, on and off for a series of a couple of years now, with interest in the Esplanade Mall. I think they are realistically looking at this market,” said Jerry Bologna, executive director of the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission.

With the announced move of Nordstrom Rack from the Riverwalk, it seems that the IKEA idea was prothesizing, but the Swedish brand still expresses interest. As of now, no reopening date has been announced. However, with Louis Armstrong Airport’s (MSY) positioning as a retail/restaurant mecca, as well as the announcement of a second terminal by 2030, the impact of The Esplanade will definitely be something shoppers will be watching.

WEST (BANK) WE GO

While analyzing the trends surrounding this “mall renaissance,” there seems to be a recurring theme of the “Rs”—restaurants, retail, and renovation. It is Oakwood Center, located at the intersection of Terry Parkway and the Westbank Expressway, that’s focusing on the “renovation” trend.

Having renovated with an entire new look after a string of violence after Hurricane Katrina, Oakwood has taken some financial hits with the closing of several stores, some of which suffered with locations across the country including Mervin’s and JC Penny, and restaurants including Chick-fil-A and Raising Cane’s. The mall might once again be getting a facelift.

From tariffs and disasters to technological revolutions and global upheaval, the American retail sector is in a state of flux, but, like all American ingenuity, continued evolution and development will prevail. Things might just not look the same as they once did.

CHRISTMAS SPIRITS

CHRISTMAS SPIRITS

By Beauregard Tye

Holiday Cocktails in New Orleans

With New Orleans being the party town for all occasions, venues all over town are prepared to help you make the most of the holiday season and would never expect you to get through it sober. Hence there are more Xmas-themed beverages to be had than could fit down your chimney.

For a Frank-Capraesque Christmas moment, seasonal celebrants can head to the Polo Club Lounge at the Windsor Court Hotel for The ZuZu, a pomegranate-influenced sparkling cocktail named for the little girl in the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life

There’s no roaring fire at Jewel of the South, but the Winter Waltz is returning this season, a blend of rye, amaro, and allspice. It will be joined by the Pagan Painkiller—a “Candycane Colada.”

The festivities get underway at the Hotel Fontenot’s Peacock Room with the Deck the Halls Hanger One vodka, amaretto, crème de cacao, cream, and sprinkles—and continues to the Glitter End, a Christmas combo of Bacardi Ocho, Tattersall Apple Pommeau, spiced cranberry, lemon, and glitter that can serve one to six people. Meanwhile, the Caribbean Holiday pictures Santa on vacation in a custom-made mug filled with Bumbu rum, apricot, yuzu curacao, spiced oolong orgeat, and lime.

From November 28, 2025, until January 9, 2026, Rib Room at the Omni Royal Orleans will host Blitzen’s Bar, a holiday pop-up bar with cocktails crafted by

mixologist and Drink Masters judge Julie Reiner. The bar will serve eight seasonal cocktails, including the Sleigh Ride and Espres-Ho Ho Ho Martini, along with a zero-proof mocktail, a Dubai hot chocolate that can be made boozy, and snacks.

At sit-down seafood place GW Fins, winter cocktails are planned months in advance, yielding merry mixed drinks such as the Partridge in a Pear Tree, made with Canton ginger liqueur, Stranahan’s whiskey, St George pear liqueur, and orange bitters, as well as other popular perennials including the Pumpkin-Spiced Espresso Martini.

The Roosevelt Hotel is a favored destination for Yuletide aficionados thanks to the dazzling display of lights adorning the lobby each Christmas season. Located in the lobby, the Sazerac Bar provides unique holiday drinks including the Christmas Cookie—a blend of vanilla vodka, brown sugar, and heavy cream—and the Candy Cane, which is a wellcrafted concoction of Rumple Minze, white créme de cacao, and cream, striped with raspberry to give the drink its festive appearance and taste.

Each December, the AllWays Lounge and Cabaret hosts Meowy Catmas, the annual three-week engagement of the Acro-Cats, which is the performing arm of the Chicago-based Rock Cats Rescue—a nonprofit group dedicated to feline welfare. The venue offers a trio of specialty cocktails during the show’s run: the Meowscow Mule, the Meowmosa, and Irish Whiskers, which proprietress Zalia Benville calls “the Irish whiskey from your 1970s hotel bar daydreams.”

The Christmas-themed pop-up bar Miracle on Magazine returns to Barrel Proof this holiday season, serving holiday cocktails in a festive setting. Begun in 2014 by Greg Boehm at his New York bar, Miracle became such an instant phenomenon that it quickly grew into an annual event with multiple locations around the world.

The pop-up’s original offering, the Christmapolitan, made with vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, lime, rosemary, and absinthe mist, will return this year, along with the Snowball OldFashioned with rye whiskey, gingerbread, aromatic and wormwood bitters, and orange essence.

Also back are: the Koala La La La (blanco tequila, dry vermouth, apple liqueur, tamarind, lemon, eucalyptus bitters, mint, and soda), Rudolph’s Replacement (vodka with coffee liqueur, white crème de cacao, orange curaçao, chai syrup, almond milk, and aromatic bitters), the Run Run Reindeer (a

mulled wine reduction, prosecco, lemon, and aromatic bitters), and the Jingle Balls Nog, which has cognac, cream sherry, almond milk, cream, egg, vanilla, and nutmeg, so it is a no-go if you have dairy or nut allergies or adhere to a plant-based diet.

They’ll be joined by some new creations, as well, including: Candy Cane Lane (white rum, vanilla liqueur, dark crème de cacao, minty amaro, candy cane, and soy milk), Cheery Cherry Chocosaurus (brandy, Italian sweet vermouth, dark crème de cacao, blackberry liqueur, tart cherry and chocolate, lemon, chocolate bitters, and brandied cherries), and Miracle Mouse (a bourbon base with French sweet vermouth, pamplemousse liqueur, vanilla liqueur, strawberry, grapefruit, and orange acid).

A spin-off pop-up was launched the following year in 2015 and is a collaboration between Boehm and Tiki bar impresario Jeff Berry, the author of six books on vintage tropical cocktails, including Sippin’ Safari and Intoxica! Beachbum Berry Presents Sippin’ Santa is now a seasonal staple at Berry’s French Quarter bar, Latitude 29, with a namesake cocktail of aged Demerara rum, amaro, lemon, orange, and gingerbread mix. With a full menu of drinks that Berry has called “North Pole meets South Seas mashups,” the sister pop-up has also been franchised with partner vendors.

Along with returning favorites including the Jingle Bird (bourbon with pineapple rum, Campari, pineapple, lime, and jingle mix) and the Sugar Plum Mai Tai, which contains Haitian and Nicaraguan rums, lime, plum mix, and two syrups orgeat and cinnamon, Berry has added half a dozen new cocktails for the 2025 holiday season.

The Coco Ho Ho Ho has gold Jamaican rum, lime, coconut, pineapple, pandan syrup, and banana liqueur. The Pineapple Upside-Down Cask is a blend of dark and gold Jamaican rums, lemon, pineapple upside-down mix, and cherry liqueur. The Frost Bite is a tequila drink with sage, pineapple, lime, cranberry syrup, and spiced cranberry bitters. Wreck the Halls contains Caribbean overproof rum, lime, tawny port, maple and vanilla syrups, and figgy bitters. Nui Nui New Year is a drink made for two with a choice of vodka or gold Puerto Rican rum mixed with lime, orange, allspice liqueur, nui mix, and bitters. The Hot Buttered Grog is another drink that combines two rums, Jamaican and Puerto Rican, that are mixed with honey-butter batter and island spices, as well as served hot.

Serving New Orleans for over

FOR

Bar Guide

Boot Scootin’ Rodeo

522 Bourbon St. (504) 552-2510

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk

727 Bourbon St. (504) 523-1960

Headquarters by Nice Guys

445 S. Rampart St. (504) 217-6851

Hot Tin

2031 St. Charles Ave. (504) 323-1500

House of Blues

225 Decatur St. (504) 310-4999

JB's Fuel Dock

128 S. Roadway St. (504) 510-2260

Le Bon Temps Roule 4801 Magazine St. (504) 897-3448

Lots a Luck Tavern

203 Homedale St. (504) 483-0978

Martine's Lounge 2347 Metairie Rd., Metairie (504) 831-863

Pal's Lounge 949 N. Rendon St. (504) 488 7257

Parasol's Bar & Restaurant

2533 Constance St. (504) 354-9079

Rick's Cabaret 315 Bourbon St. (504) 524-4222

Rivershack Tavern

3449 River Rd. (504) 834-4938

Saddle Bar

715 Bienville St. (504) 313-1113

Sazerac House

101 Magazine St. (504) 910-0100

The Boondock Saint

731 St. Peter St. (504) 525-4950

The Channel

2604 Magazine St. (504) 381-4680

The Jazz Playhouse

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.

Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA is a laid-back bar and event space. Headquarters offers an extensive menu of cocktails, beers, and wines—perfect for any occasion.

Hot Tin, perched atop the Pontchartrain Hotel, offers chic ambiance, creative cocktails—such as the Sugarcane Old Fashioned—and sweeping city views, where timeless elegance meets modern mixology.

House of Blues lets you experience NOLA’s nightlife with electrifying bands, delicious food, and creative cocktails, including the Rock Me Hurricane, perfectly blending the city’s vibrant music, flavor, and spirit.

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 24hour 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.

300 Bourbon St. (504) 553-2299

The Jimani 141 Chartres St. (504) 524-0493

The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. (504) 568-1702

The Original Nite Cap

1300 St. Bernard Ave. (504) 221-1560

The Vintage 3121 Magazine St. 504-324-7144

Tropical Isle Multiple Locations (504) 523-1927

Vintage Rock Club 1007 Poydras St. (504) 308-1305

Martine's Lounge is a true Old Metairie gem, boasting a laidback charm that welcomes both regulars and newcomers alike with low prices, a new pool table, and friendly vibes.

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 poboys, 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.

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 Jimani is a classic sports bar offering 100 beers, great food, and 16 TVs for every game. Housed in a 1848 building, it’s home to the famed “mysterious mixer.”

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, burlesque, and Italian cuisine. 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.

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.

Vintage Rock Club offers nostalgic fun and is NOLA’s only immersive concert experience, featuring DJ-curated rock hits. Check out their social media for themed nights and dress to impress.

FILM REVIEWS

By David Vicari & Fritz Esker

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t

2013’s Now You See Me was a hit about The Horsemen, a quartet of illusionists (Jesse Eisenberg, Isla Fisher, Woody Harrelson, and Dave Franco) who performed heists during their shows and shared some of their loot with their audiences. It was enough of a hit to get a sequel in 2016, which did okay domestically but very well internationally. Nine years after that, they ran it back with the ho-hum Now You See Me: Now You Don’t The film starts with three new illusionists (Dominic Sessa, Ariana Greenblatt, and Justice Smith) imitating the Horsemen. Soon, both they and the original film’s quartet are recruited by a mysterious entity

South African diamond heiress (Rosamund Pike).

A problem that movies have, as they churn out sequels, is the compulsion to bring all the old characters back while also introducing new ones. This can be a problem even in series that start as two-handers (e.g. Lethal Weapon). In a series with a fairly crowded ensemble, it becomes very overstuffed in a hurry.

Also, since it’s been nine years since the last film, the movie has to do a lot of work to bring viewers up to speed, so there is a great deal of expository dialogue. But even with all the explaining going on in the script, the events still don’t always add up.

There are a couple of decent closequarters fight scenes where Greenblatt has to avoid being captured by cops in a small police station room and Sessa has to fight his way out of the back of an Interpol truck. Overall, however, Now You See Me: Now You Don’t has described its stay in viewers' minds and the box office in the film's title.

The Running Man

This Edgar Wright directed action film, The Running Man, is the second time the 1982 novel by Richard Bachman (aka Stephen King) has been adapted to the screen. The first time, a 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger vehicle, is such cheeseball trash and feels so incomplete that it is unintentionally brilliant. There are scenes where, apparently, stationary cameras can go to different angles and self-edit. Another scene has Schwarzenegger’s character watching a commercial for The Running Man television show, which plays scenes from the live episode that his character hasn’t participated in yet. It’s like the film is an accidental rumination of media manipulation. As dumb as it is, though, the ‘87 The Running Man is an entertaining ride. This new version, however, is quite bland.

In a dystopian future, the biggest reality television show is The Running Man, where contestants are let loose in the city and must stay alive for 30 days while being hunted by professional killers. What makes it harder for a contestant to survive is that ordinary citizens can win money by reporting a runner’s whereabouts.

perfect for The Running Man show and has a real chance of winning.

From there, Richards gets in scrapes with assassins while trying to lay low, complete with donning disguises. One of his disguises is a blind priest, which is totally something that would attract attention.

Edgar Wright, known for sharp comedies including Shaun of the Dead and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, goes pretty much humorless here, or, rather, the intended jokes just aren’t funny. He is even able to defuse Powell’s on-screen charm.

The action scenes are serviceable, but we have seen it all before. Then there is the mess of a third act, which goes on and on and on before it finally wraps itself up. This The Running Man may be closer to the book than the ‘87 film, but who cares? It’s a dull movie. —David

Vicari

Unemployed Ben Richards (Glen Powell) desperately needs money to get his sick child medicine, so he reluctantly tries out for a random reality show. The slimy creator of The Running Man, Dan Killian (Josh Brolin), convinces Richards that he is

My Most Unpleasant Christmas Day Ever TALES FROM THE QUARTER

EBy Debbie Lidsey

ven after nearly 20 years, just writing about this gives me a vicarious anxiety attack mixed with embarrassed laughter.

we’d been dosed with a spiked drink by some nefarious stranger at the bar earlier— perhaps anthrax. Why? Because we were stupidly stoned and didn’t know it.

A few days before Christmas, we (Philipe and I) enjoyed a yuletide beer and visited with our dear friend as he tended bar. Our friend asked us if we would like some of his “special holiday confections.” In hindsight, I know he was quite clear that the homemade candies were “fully loaded,” as he would never dose someone without their total acceptance, but the bar was ever so noisy, and, as usual, Philipe was mesmerized by the big screen TV, and all I heard was “candy.” We eagerly said, “Heck yeah. We would love some.”

Philipe then decided he should walk the dogs and feed them right away—in case we died during the night. As I said, we were blitzed. It wasn’t until I mentioned, during one of my anxiety attacks, that the movie on TV was playing backwards that Philipe figured it out, remembering that our friend’s signature special candies had a bonus ingredient. We finally went to bed knowing we would not die and disappoint our hungry pets come morning. We also vowed to pay attention when a friend offers “some special candies.”

Christmas Day arrived and so did our box of sugary perfection, which could’ve rivaled any professional confectioner. We opted to devour these treats a little later (thankfully, or our entire holiday would have been ruined). We set off to visit our favorite Christmas spots—a stroll through the Roosevelt Hotel and all the other lobbies sporting grand decorations and Christmas trees. Our cats wanted a decked-out tree of their own but climbing among the branches of wired lights and glass bulbs was a hard “no.” Also, our dogs would never be able to resist marking “their” tree with pee. So we vicariously enjoyed having a decorated Christmas tree, in fact several, compliments of the lobbies we commandeered as our own living rooms, albeit briefly.

We visited our fellow Quarterite friends and noshed a bit at various apartments. We didn’t consider ourselves “holiday orphans” as we were “family.” Our French Quarter community was quite happy to celebrate amongst ourselves. That morning, we had made a pinkie promise not to imbibe too many drinks during our festive rounds. Back then, we both were quite the tipplers, so making a pact to take it easy and keep it light seemed an agreeable stance.

Around mid-afternoon, our collective sweet tooth was ready to indulge in our Christmas candies. Sweets have always been a holiday highpoint for me, no pun intended. They were as delicious as they were gorgeous, and we ate many. As the day slid into the evening, we were quite pleased with our festive day and moderate consumption of spirits. Dinner awaited us at home. We debated saving the temptation of more sugar until after dinner for dessert time, but we dove back in for a couple of candies while fixing our meal. Needless to say, the earlier “snacks” and the second helpings of the hash infused candies kicked our asses. We both became pathetically paranoid and hellaciously high.

I whined tearfully about feeling awful and ruining our Christmas, while Philipe figured he’d drank too much and that he had screwed up things. We then decided

This trippy trip down memory lane has me recalling “the longest three miles ever” ride. Back when I was around 19, my friends and I took a ride one evening to Dauphin Island, near my then home of Mobile. We drove down to the west-end of this barrier island to the beach and smoked a little pot. Our return drive home on the two-lane road had us about three miles from the island’s only exit when we noticed a police car behind us. Martha Reeves and the Vandellas sang in my head “nowhere to run, nowhere to hide” loud and clear. We just knew the cops were gonna pull us hippies over if we made one single traffic violation.

We drove so slow it was painful, and, since we were holding a bag of weed, which was seriously illegal back in those days, we decided to eat the damn s**t. We split the baggie up between the four of us and started chewing. After about a mile, I must have been really stoned and was forgetting why I was chewing grass like a cow and humming along with the Vandellas. I was convinced Ms. Reeves was guiding us to safety. As we clicked on the turn signal and slowly, legally—except for mouths full of pot—followed every turn lane protocol and exited the island, the squad car continued on down to the eastin of Dauphin Island. No jail time for me, though I do look great in orange.

As I was concluding in sharing my not so pleasant Christmas memory and my near encounter with the police, I was enjoying a cup of coffee and one more memory. This is also a word of caution— pay attention to what you eat. Years ago, while waiting tables, a fellow waiter offered me some dark chocolate covered espresso beans. I devoured them—not two or three but a handful. He looked at me like I had just eaten a lightbulb. I didn’t even think about the caffeine, just the chocolate. Needless to say, I raced around the dining room like a speed freak and jibber jabbered endlessly to my customers, my captive audience.

My gift to you—pay attention. That’s my lesson learned. Well, sometimes. Merry Christmas, everyone.

PO-BOY VIEWS

By Phil LaMancusa

Christmas or Commonplaces

Before we begin with this holiday/ restaurant piece, there’s some groundwork to be laid. First of all, in life, there are three things that will surely break your heart: betting the farm on an inside straight, falling in love with an “empathy-repellant” person—making you a “psychomagnet,” and opening a restaurant.

“Those yule tide loving sicklysweet nog-sucking cheer mongers. I really don’t like ‘em. No, I don’t.” —How the Grinch Stole Christmas The Grinch, (2000)

As for the second point, also in life, there are three things that are really stupid: playing poker for money with a guy named Lucky, asking an empathy-repellant person to move in with you—you psycho-magnet, you—and opening a restaurant, especially if the location of the restaurant is where they have winter as a predominant season. Indeed, the thought about entertaining the thought of opening a restaurant again gives me the willies, especially if it’s f**king cold outside. It’s really tempting karma to do any two or more of those things. Spoiler alert: There are seemingly smart people that do really stupid things that will break their hearts walking amongst you. You know who you are.

In a perfect world, luck and hard alcohol will get you through any of the above; however, something else that’s really, really stupid and will surely break your heart is cooking a holiday dinner, by yourself, for a bunch of people in a confined space. Double that trouble if you don’t know how to cook. Triple the trouble if it’s colder than a well-digger’s ass outside. That’s what restaurants are for.

You might start to get the idea that I am averse to cold weather, so I’ll say it right here—I am. It gets cold enough for me, December-wise, in New Orleans. Living here, where the weather suits my wardrobe, I can’t help reflecting how stupid it would be of me to ever consider living in a place that has brutal winters such as they have up north. I admit, there are some wonderful places to visit up north—just not in the winter.

People that enjoy winter cold weather creep me out. And, as years go by, the idea of such a thing as holiday food gives me a case of “meh.” It’s like being rewarded for enduring winter and not catching a cold.

Furthermore, cooking for more than one other person is strictly reserved for work, where I get paid to do it. Although I love my work, it’s not something I want to do once I’m off.

Now, I’m not the type of Negative Nancy or Danny Downer that would want to spoil anyone’s giddy holiday—wacky—rhapsodies and those that go all out for ugly sweater parties, where they play secret Santa. That game where you “steal” each other’s gifts from each other is a major curiosity for me, right up there with parlor games, trivia nights, and charades, but that’s just me. Henry Higgins and I are simple men—whatever revs your tractor is perfectly fine with us.

Me, for the holidays, I have simpler plans, and, saint that I am, I’m gonna share them with you. I’m not about to diss whatever sizzles

your bacon, but—here comes the big but— my sage advice is that you don’t need to stress about living up to anyone else’s standard of comportment when it comes to holiday behavior—period. You go roll on, mister sister. It’s still a free country, I think. You can march to/with your own drumette.

Here’s some winter (in New Orleans) holiday food ideas.

Go to a movie, preferably a multiplex. Go see multiple flicks and gorge on hot dogs, popcorn, nonpareils, Raisinets, and whatever else they purvey. Some places (Broad Theater and AMC) have alcoholic drinks, as well as pop-up food vendors.

Volunteer. Altruism at its finest. Somewhere out there, someone is feeding folks that are as less fortunate than yourself. If you help out, you’ll be doing a good deed, making some friends and contacts, and becoming available to all the food you can sneak.

Clean out your refrigerator/larder. Almost as a last resort, dig into your larder, freezer, and past the science projects in your fridge because surely there’s something edible somewhere. Mac ‘n’ cheese?

Supermarket picnic splurge. This takes at least a day’s planning: pâté, pickled herring, cheese, crackers, wine, fruit, and a tree in a park to sit under.

Visit friends. Surely you know someone who is puttin’ on a feedbag big enough to accommodate another hungry mouth. Go through your phone contacts and call someone. Say something like, “Oh! I was supposed to have dinner at Mom’s, but my flight was canceled. Do you happen to know anywhere for me to get a meal?”

Waffle House. They’re open and are always a good back up plan.

And my personal favorite is Chinese takeout. Don’t get taken aback. Deep down, you know you love that stuff. You watch folks on the “teevee” settling the world’s problems and solving mysteriously gruesome murders, abductions, and narrow escapes while sipping brown liquor from Glencairn whiskey glasses— two fingers, no ice—and eating what you can only guess as moo goo gai pan, shrimp fried rice, and sweet and sour pork in a virtual carnage of half-eaten egg rolls, bamboo chopsticks, and plastic/paper detritus. Sounds good, doesn’t it? I know that you know just the right hole-in-the-wall joint that’s open every holiday. Life hack: Dine on the floor (your dog will thank you).

Or, you could try to cook a meal for a few friends and, when disaster occurs, go to a restaurant in New Orleans, where it’s not winter. Happy Holidaze.

MAN HAVE F UN