Latest Issue: June 2025—Summer Restaurant Guide

SUMMER RESTAURANT GUIDE

Let’s eat. Savor this Summer Restaurant Guide, filled with suggestions on where to dine out. Matt Sheen shares vitalizing vegan locales, while meat lovers will enjoy Shane Finkelstein’s take on the city’s best smash burgers.

Dads always play second fiddle to moms, but Father’s Day is still a time to celebrate. Celeste Turner offers unique NOLA gift ideas for new dads, while Brooke Adams commemorates the fathers who contributed generously to our New Orleans culture.

With the summer solstice upon us, the community festivities slow down. Joel Mandina proposes easy road trips to take before the festival season returns, while Michelle Nicholson presents ways to entertain the little ones this summer in her “At-Home Camp Guide.” Log onto WhereYat.com to vote in our

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Contributing Writers: Brooke Adams, Shane Finkelstein, Lillian Foster, Emily Hingle, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Joel Mandina, Tim McNally, Julie Mitchell, Michelle Nicholson, Kim Ranjbar, Matt Sheen, Celeste Turner

Cover: Mother's "World's Best Baked Ham" by Randy Schmidt

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WORLD FAMOUS IN NEW ORLEANS

Baked Ham the Way Mother’s Makes It

Discover a few secrets behind the slice at a restaurant on the edge of the Warehouse District that’s been serving the “world’s best baked ham” for over 80 years.

Mother’s might get all the hype for its roast beef debris po-boys, fried chicken, and red beans and rice, but the real MVP is in all likelihood the baked ham—a flavorful, low-key legend that shows up in nearly half the dishes on the menu.

Slowly simmered with turnip greens or cabbage, chopped and sauteed into Mae’s Omelet with green onions and mushrooms, or griddled and layered onto a buttery, buttermilk biscuit with scrambled eggs, ham is arguably Mother’s frequently unsung hero.

The corner restaurant was born in the late 1930s when Simon Landry purchased what was formerly a small, Greek sandwich shop for his wife Mary, who loved to cook. Later, their sons Eddie and Jack took over the family business and named it Mother’s in honor of the restaurant’s inspiration and core founder.

At the time of its founding, the Warehouse District was a very different neighborhood than it is today. As an area consisting of small businesses and warehouses, there were a lot of longshoremen and laborers that worked on the riverfront and hungry men looking for an affordable, filling meal, and Mother’s menu was designed to fit that need. Today, the neighborhood around the corner of Poydras Street and Tchoupitoulas consists mostly of office buildings and hotels, yet

By Kim Ranjbar

the home-cooked, stick-to-your-ribs fare at Mother’s has endured, appealing to office workers, laborers, and tourists alike.

After nearly 50 years in business, the Landrys sold the corner restaurant to brothers Jerry and John Amato, and it has stayed in their family ever since. Though they added some of their own recipes, the Amato family has made it a point to maintain the Landrys’ beloved offerings, including the closely-held, family secret recipe for glazed baked ham.

Long before Mother’s changed hands, the Landry family was already sourcing cured hams from Chisesi Brothers to bake, sell, and serve in their restaurant. A local meat-packing company that has supplied the Gulf South with hams, deli meats, and more for over a century, Chisesi is now operated by the fourth and fifth generations of the Chisesi family.

Self-proclaimed as the “world’s best,” the popularity of Mother’s baked ham is due, part and parcel, to Chisesi’s curing methods. “Mother’s is also supplied with a specific cut of ham, according to specifications agreed upon nearly half a century ago,” explained Charles Pizzo, Mother’s marketing manager who’s worked with the restaurant since 1986.

“The cured hams are also

slow-cooked, which renders the fat and caramelizes the crust, giving it a certain sweetness.”

The highly-coveted ham crust’s unique flavor can also be attributed to Mother’s uber-secret mix of herbs and spices. “Only a handful of people know the seasoning blend,” Pizzo confided. It’s a formula not even known by the cooks as “the general manager pre-mixes the seasonings.”

Although a visitor can walk into Mother’s anytime and get a thick slice of their signature baked ham with a side of potato salad or red beans and rice, dyedin-the-wool guests at Mother’s know you have to get there early for a cut of the caramelized, well-seasoned crust, a swoonworthy tidbit for any lover of pork products.

Another random porkalicious morsel pops up from time to time at Mother’s—a crispy goodie for lucky souls who happen to walk in on the right day. “When the chef gets enough ham trimmings, he will fry them in a cast iron skillet in order to render the fat for the soups and vegetables,” Pizzo revealed. “But the cracklins—the ham cracklins—are just put out on the counter and given away.” He also admitted Mother’s ham cracklins are especially good when served atop Mother’s creamy potato salad.

On average, Mother’s produces around 300 baked hams per month, especially popular during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, and are sold whole or by the half to locals and customers across the country. While the shutdowns during the pandemic were rough on small businesses

throughout the state, Mother’s turned lemons into lemonade and started selling their baked hams, and other popular goods, through Goldbelly.com

All of Mother’s hams are trimmed, glazed, baked, and carved in a butcher shop and kitchen on the second floor of the red-bricked building that also houses the restaurant.

Home cooks in the area are all too cognizant of what Pizzo described bluntly as “the best deal in town for ham bones and chunks” in the city. Perfect for cooking up a pot of collard greens, chowders, soups and stews—not to mention the city’s Monday tradition of red beans and rice— Mother’s sells a three-pound bag of roughcut, chunks of ham for only $6, as well as a large bag of ham bones for $3. Throw in a couple pounds of dried beans, as well as a few hefty handfuls of a well-chopped “trinity,” and you’ll have more than enough “provender” for an army of folks, whether they’re dropping by your house during Mardi Gras or visiting for Jazz Fest.

Everyone has their favorites at Mother’s, be it the Ferdi Special po-boy layered with thick slices of ham and roast beef debris; a massive chef’s salad loaded with chunks of ham, turkey, roast beef, and cheese; or a big bowl of Mae’s filet gumbo with lots of chicken and smoked sausage. Many can’t resist a warm, buttermilk biscuit with egg, cheese, sliced baked ham—or crust, if you can get it, and a side of cheesy grits. It’s New Orleans’ own version of a greasy spoon—simple, affordable fare that definitely fills you up and keeps you coming back for more.

2025 SUMMER RESTAURANT GUIDE

AMERICAN

Crescent City Steaks has not been waning since 1934. They have high-quality steaks and an old-school ambience that brings everyone together. The flavors of their cowboy ribeye, a tender and rich steak, lasso your taste buds in to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience. Head down to Crescent City Steaks and give your taste buds the ride of their lives. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

Daisy Dukes is the perfect hotspot for funky vibes and mouth-watering Southern cuisine. Serving up sizzling seafood, delicious po-boys, award-winning Cajun Bloody Marys, and other New Orleans classics, this joint is sure to delight the entire party. Make sure to devour the delicious gator, hot sausage, or shrimp po-boys at Daisy Dukes, as well. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com

Dat Dog is known for their creative hot dogs and a myriad of flavor combos that make hot dog aficionados learn a few new tricks. With all sorts of hot dogs, from the Irish Channel dog to the Etouffee Special, the restaurant infuses new flavors into every bite. Fetch yourself a bite of New Orleans flair at Dat Dog. Multiple Locations, datdog.com

Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant & Bar brings laid-back charm and bold New Orleans flavor together in Old Gretna. Serving up dishes such as their sloppy roast beef poboy and their red beans & rice, Gattuso’s also prides itself on their craft beers and signature cocktails such as their Blue Moon, Lavender Haze, and their Rum Punch. It’s where Southern hospitality is served. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches is rewriting the sandwich playbook. Ike’s is bringing out sandwiches with wild flavors and eccentric names such as their Halal Backstabber, Matt Cain, and their vegan-friendly Time Traveler’s Wife that all come with their signature dirty sauce. One bite of their sandwiches and your regular turkey and cheese sandwich will never taste quite the same again. 1940 Dauphine St., (504) 581-8230, ikessandwich.com

Jimmy J’s Café puts the pop into mom & pop shops with loud colors, louder flavors, and zero tolerance for the bland. Whipping up brunch specials such as their Cajun Cuban sandwiches, Monte Cristo French toast, or their JJ’s Breakfast Bowl, they’re bursting with

it’s breakfast, lunch, or late bites, Luke proves timeless flavors that never fail to impress. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

New Orleans Vampire Café is offering a fang-tastic dining experience in the heart of the French Quarter. With hypnotizing options such as their alligator po-boys, French toast, and their vampire breakfast burger, all are paired perfectly with their refreshing bottomless mimosas and Bloodiest Marys. This is a perfect spot for those seeking a little intrigue with their meal. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

NOLA Steak hits the jackpot for your taste buds. Feast on jumbo lump crab cakes, the magnolia mushroom campanelle, or their juicy 14 oz. NOLA Strip steak, all of which hits the spot with their beers or mixed drink specials. Whether you win or lose at the slots in Boomtown Casino, you’ll certainly win at the tables in NOLA Steak. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (885) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans.com

Spudly’s Super Spuds turns the humble baked potato into a superb meal to enjoy. With dishes such as their Wisconsin super spud, crawfish spud, or their pizza spud, the sky’s the limit for flavor. Also serving soups, salads, and gourmet burgers, Spudly’s has the perfect line-up to give everyone a generous pinch of spud-stuffed satisfaction. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com

flavor.

Jimmy J’s is perfect for a quick bite or a laid-back time with friends. 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com

Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop elevates the steakhouse experience without presenting a stuffy atmosphere. With juicy, sizzling steaks seasoned to perfection, such as their Legacy surf & turf, center cut top sirloin, and their cowboy bone-in ribeye, all of their steaks hit the spot. Steak + Chop cuts out the gimmicks and tricks and presents truly killer plates. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 5132606, legacykitchen.com

Luke is where “Creole” meets “cool and fresh.” This brasserie blends French, German, and Creole flavors into every dish from their croque monsieur to their Luke burger and their seafood gumbo a la Creole, each bite brings out that special experience. So whether

Vacca Steakhouse invites guests to sink their teeth into their premier steaks and enjoy their smooth drinks. With dishes such as their succulent 16 oz. NY Strip and shrimp fra diavolo, as well as their buttery Chilean sea bass, each plate is a masterclass in flavor. Vacca is a dining experience that leaves an impression, so make your reservations now. 3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com

Vampire Apothecary Restaurant and Bar is an immersive dining experience where dark elegance meets tantalizing flavors. With offerings such as their roasted bone marrow, duck breast pastrami arugula salads, or their tea brined chicken thighs, they all combine exceptionally with their wide array of coffees, teas, and cocktails. It’s the perfect nook to sink your teeth into something unforgettable. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

Virgin Hotels New Orleans has fantastic businesses to try: Commons Club and the

Venezia

The Blackbird Hotel

Pool Club. Serving dishes such as swordfish, la wagyu burger, and wild mushroom rigatoni, Commons Club’s menu is perfectly catered to suit your palette. Meanwhile, the Pool Club offers fancy small bites including blue crab dip, craft cocktails, and a refreshing rooftop pool. 550 Baronne St., (504) 603-8000, virginhotels.com/new-orleans

ASIAN

Asia serves up bold Chinese and Vietnamese flavors packed with flair in Boomtown Casino & Hotel on the Westbank. From their sizzling shaking beef to their delectable Asia’s Pan entree, or even their take on Vietnamese rice noodle soup, every dish is packed with personality. It’s the perfect spot for a flavorful escape from the slots. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com

Mikimoto Restaurant has got your back when your sushi craving goes hard. Some favorites include their explosive Crunchy Dynamite Roll, their sweet Mango Mania Roll, and their unique Fantasy Box, which combines spicy tuna, crawfish, salmon, mango, and more. With fresh seafood, fast service, and feel-good vibes, sushi night has found its happy place at Mikimoto. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

Thai’d Up is bringing the heat with authentic Thai cuisine with bold flavors and street food charm. Including their crispy roti with curry dip, spicy basil stir-fry, creamy panang curry, and their delicious tom yum, nothing is worth missing. Cozy, casual, and full of kick, it’s dangerously easy to get “Thai’d up” and stay for a long while. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co

BARS WITH GREAT FOOD

Bourbon “O” Bar, tucked inside the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, offers a refined retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street. Enjoy classic cocktails such as their Ramos Gin Fizz, the Brown Sugar Old Fashioned, and their Veuve Clicquot. With nightly live jazz and a sophisticated vibe, it’s the perfect spot to unwind in the French Quarter. 730 Bourbon St., (855) 7715214, bourbonorleans.com

Buffa’s Bar & Restaurant has been around since 1939 and features delicious NOLA-style bar food and live musical entertainment seven days a week. From burgers and wings to specialty and deli sandwiches, there’s plenty to dig into. Make sure to get one of Buffa’s speciality dishes including blackened redfish, red beans & rice, crawfish étouffée, and redfish del Buffa. 1001 Esplanade Ave., (504) 949-0038, buffasbar.com

selection. Said to be haunted, it stills offers a welcoming, lively vibe for all. With big-screen sports, a jukebox, and plenty of drinks, it’s a go-to-spot for locals and visitors alike. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani. com

CAFÉ

JB’s Fuel Dock serves up both lakeside views and tasty bites. Whether you’re digging into their juicy burgers, enjoying their fingerlicking amazing wings, or digging into their unique pizzas, this spot has something for everyone. With both indoor and outdoor seating, friendly service, and a dog-friendly vibe, JB’s Fuel Dock is the perfect pitstop for a relaxing meal. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com

Rivershack Tavern is a funky spot with live music, drinks galore, and eclectic decor. The tavern offers a menu filled with favorites such as fried alligator bites, boudin egg rolls, and the Shank-You burger, which match well with local beers including Abita Purple Haze and Parish Envie. It’s hard to beat their good eats, cold drinks, and fun vibes. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com

The Blackbird Hotel offers a chic lobby bar that serves a curated selection of cocktails, mocktails, tequilas, whiskeys, and a wine list. With drinks such as their Blackbird Bramble, Quoth the Raven, and the Sea Level Spritz, they provide a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that can be enjoyed with friends. Have a bite and give a toast to The Blackbird. 1612 Prytania St., (504) 383-7500, theblackbirdnola.com

The Channel combines Irish pub charm with NOLA flavor to serve up cold pints and bold banter. Dig into favorites such as hot honey fried chicken sandwiches, roast beef po-boys, and the Irish Channel cheeseburger, along with their cold pints to drink it all down. Head on over to The Channel, in the Irish Channel, to kick back and relax. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans. com

The Jimani, a French Quarter staple since 1971, is known for their iconic jello shots, including Mysterious Margarita and Bananas Foster flavors, plus a huge beer and spirits

Café Amelie strives to treat all their clients like royalty with its romantic ambiance and refined take on Louisiana cuisine. Signature dishes include the Cajun catfish sandwich, their confit duck leg, and their Amelia pasta, which is rich with flavor. Save some room for their seasonal desserts because they are just as sweet as the romance in the air. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com

Crack’D Brunch has cracked the code for amazing brunch with friends and family. With dishes such as their shrimp & grits, the bacon tower, and their signature seafood omelet, everyone at the table will be satisfied. You don’t need to break a few eggs to enjoy an amazing brunch with family or some friends over at Crack’D. 1901 Sophie Wright Pl., (504) 381-4678, crackdbrunch.com

The Vintage Restaurant offers a chic café experience with a focus on gourmet beignets, craft cocktails, and artisanal coffees that are sustainable sourced. The flavors they present just pop out, so try their dulce de leches, cortados, or orange chai latte. This chic and inviting venue is ideal for some alone time or a fun hangout with friends. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com

Willa Jean is where biscuits meet brilliance. This chic Southern bakery and dining spot offers a menu that’s both comforting and inventive with a focus on hearty breakfasts and diverse brunches. Indulge in their Hangover Bowl with cheesy grits and short ribs or savor their Southern coconut cake for dessert. From breakfast to brunch, Willa Jean steals the show. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com

FRENCH

Restaurant August exudes class and a love for vintage European cuisine with a dash of Louisiana flair in New Orleans’ Central Business District. Dishes such as their chanterelle mushroom pithivier, pan-seared golden tilefish, and their gnocchi “black and blue” are crafted with precision. This is the right place for all seeking refined cuisine for any month in the year. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust. com

ITALIAN

Domenica Restaurant is serving up bold, handcrafted Italian dishes that take your taste buds on a tour of Italy. With handcrafted pastas and wood-fired pizzas in addition to their specialty dishes such as affettati misti, squid ink tagliolini, and their delightful gianduja budino, nothing disappoints. It’s the perfect vacation that you don’t need to book a flight for. 123 Baronne St., (504) 6486020, domenicarestaurant.com

Mosca’s Restaurant has been dishing out

Creole Italian cuisine as a family business since 1946. Signature dishes such as their oysters mosca are served family-style and are perfect for sharing. Even their seasonal desserts come with a local touch, selected from Bae’s Bakery and Angelo Brocato’s, proving that our local businesses look out for one another. 4137 US Highway 90 W., Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com

Paulie’s is a brand-new restaurant that has set up shop on NOLA’s hip and popular Oak Street. The joint specializes in New York Italian cuisine and offers plenty of delicious sandwiches including unique options such as the Buffalo Bill and the Jackie Robinson. Paulie’s also offers salads and hot dogs, so there is plenty of variety over there. 8201 Oak St., pauliesneworleans.com

Pizza Domenica makes pizza so well, you’ll think you have been transported to Naples with every bite. Delivering wood-fired pizzas, unique crust dipping sauces, craft beers, and more, there’s so much that will hit the spot. Swing by during happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and enjoy half-off on pizzas, draft beers, and wines. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

Pulcinella!, located in the heart of the 7th Ward, serves homestyle Italian dishes that are not to be missed. Executive Chef Matty Hayes uses modern techniques on family recipes in order to create standout dishes including seafood cannelloni, grilled steak tagliata, pollo alla cacciatore, and more. Make sure to pair your meal with a glass of wine. 1300 St. Bernard Ave. 1st Floor, (504) 221-1560, dirtydimeproductions.com/ pulcinella

U Pizza will have you making u-turns to head over there for a taste of their food. Choose from gourmet pizzas such as their Meat Lovers, Margherita, and Philly Classic or try their original Cajun-inspired Streetcar pizza and their signature U Special pizza. Toss in hearty pastas, sandwiches, and fresh salads, and there’s so much to love at U Pizza. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com

Venezia has been serving the best pizza all over New Orleans since 1957 and has now spread over to Gretna. With Italian classics such as pizzas, veal parmigiana, lasagna, and shrimp scampi, along with signature dishes such as their house special salad and their veal Pontchartrain, generous service comes packed with generous servings. One bite, and you’re famiglia Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com

LATIN

34 Restaurant & Bar is Chef Emeril Lagasse’s first restaurant dedicated to Portuguese cuisine and heritage. Dishes such as shrimp san miguel, arroz de paella, and bacalhau à Brás all burst with bold flavor. With a jamon bar, Portuguese architecture, and so much more to enjoy, 34 blends tradition and energy seamlessly into an experience to remember. 710 Baronne St., (504) 4983434, 34restaurantandbar.com

The Galley

Willa Jean

Alma Café offers a vibrant fusion of Honduran heritage with Louisiana’s local flavors. With signature dishes such as their handmade baleada sencillas, crispy camarones a la diables, and their tender bistec encebollado capture all of the soul and passion that is poured into every dish. At Alma Café, every bite feels like a warm embrace. Multiple Locations, eatalmanola.com

Easy Breakfast menu. Save some room for their beignets or Basque cheesecake. 316 Chartres St., (504) 552-4095, 3rdblockdepot. com

Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria, with multiple locations across the Greater New Orleans area, is the place to be for quality Mexican food. You can customize your burritos and tacos however you want or you can select one of Felipe’s selections including their Philly quesadilla, California burrito, and Mexico City tacos. Make sure to also order a refreshing margarita or sangria. Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com

MIDDLE EASTERN

Lebanon's Café has been NOLA’s go-to-spot for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine for over 20 years. From bona fide hummus and falafels to mouthwatering chicken shawarmas and rosemary lamb chops to delectable baklava and burma, this menu does not disappoint. Adorned with stunning art and decor and impeccable service, this venue creates an immersive dining experience into Middle Eastern hospitality. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

Shaya, in Uptown New Orleans, offers Israeli-inspired dishes with a menu crafted by Lebanese-born Executive Chef Fariz Choumali. Signature dishes included woodfired pita with vegetable dips, wild mushroom hummus, and chicken schnitzel sandwiches. Save up room for the dark chocolate halva brownie. For a casual, modern take on Israeli food, Shaya is a more than worthy choice. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com

NEW ORLEANS CUISINE

3rd Block Depot is located in the Hotel de la Poste and offers mouthwatering Creole, Cajun, and other types of cuisine. Enjoy selections from their lunch menu, including the NOLA BBQ shrimp & grits, or order the crawfish omelet or the vegetable frittata from their Big

Charlie’s Restaurant & Catering is truly worth the scenic drive over to Violet, Louisiana. This spot specializes in traditional Louisiana food and also offers breakfast items and stuffed potatoes.You can’t go wrong with any of Charlie’s different po-boy options, including the garlic roast beef & debris, Cajun boudin sausage, fried catfish, and breaded veal cutlet. 6129 E. St. Bernard Hwy., Violet, (504) 682-9057

Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop is the pit stop that goes above and beyond with its gumbo. This restaurant has you covered with varied dishes such as mumbo gumbo, freckled gumbo, yumbo mumbo gumbo, bayou scampi, shrimp & mango salad, and more. It’s bold, hearty, and proudly local— their stellar gumbo will make you vocal with delight. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop. com

Crescent City Brewhouse is the oldest brewpub in Louisiana, so you’ll be tasting history while there. With beverages such as English stouts, Cajun micheladas, and dark ‘n’ stormys served alongside their oysters, classic Creole snacks, and entrees, you’ll be satisfied. This venue is out of this world, so head on over and try a glass or two of their quality brews. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com

Desire Oyster Bar, nestled in the Royal Sonesta Hotel on Bourbon Street, offers that quintessential New Orleans dining experience. Featuring classic dishes such as bourbon smoked wings, seafood gumbo, Louisiana crab cakes, chargrilled oysters, and fried seafood plates, Desire ensures all your desires are appeased. At Desire Oyster Bar, the world really is your oyster. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com

Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA puts everyone in the right headspace with their Creole and Southern-inspired dishes. With options such as their crispy gator bites, burgers, wings, and shrimp po-boys, you’ll find something for every craving. Boasting

The Country Club

Lyons Corner

craft cocktails, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect space for a casual night out with your friends or family. 445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com

House of Blues New Orleans will get you out of any funk with its lively atmosphere, bold Southern flavors, and nonstop entertainment. Dive into their Voodoo shrimp, crispy wings, baby back ribs, or their HOB smash burger while soaking in their beverages or their live music. Feeling blue? This is the best place to enjoy it. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans

Lakeview Harbor is a local, family-owned restaurant known for hearty burgers, seafood, and Southern comfort food. Favorites include their catfish and oyster po-boys, wings, and their full rack ribs paired with their fresh Typhoon, cool Life Jacket, or their tropical Blue Hawaiian. Come hungry and leave happy, because this harbor always has a great catch. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 4864887, lakeviewharbor.us

Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern has perfected the craft of Southern hospitality with elevated comfort food and house-made cocktails. From crawfish beignet bites to shrimp Breaux Bridge pasta and crawfish étouffée, every dish is a hit. Whether it’s brunch, dinner, or drinks, Craft Tavern is the ideal spot for friends and families looking for a good time. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com

Lil’ Dizzy’s Cafe has been a beloved familyoperated hub for Creole soul food for decades. Favorites such as their golden fried chicken, gumbo, shrimp grillade, and their signature trout Baquet keep the family’s culinary legacy alive and the locals stuffed. So come hungry to this community gem in the Tremé neighborhood and feel like you’re part of the family. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 7668687, lildizzyscafe.net

Loretta’s Authentic Pralines bakes up the sweetest sweets that New Orleans has to offer with delectable pralines and unique beignet creations. With praline flavors such as chocolate, coconut, and rum along with unique beignets such as praline, chocolate, crab, seafood, and peanut butter & jelly, Loretta’s offers everything you might be craving. From sweet to savory, Loretta’s knows how to satisfy. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com

Lyons Corner has perfected brunch by serving fresh roasted coffee, perfectly crafted cocktails, and a delightful mix of creative and indulgent fare. With standout dishes such as breakfast empanadas, avocado toast, the catfish sandwiches, and Mr. T’s double smash burgers, every bite is filled with flavor and style. Head down to Lyons Corner for the best brunch in town. 537 Gravier St., (504) 5270006, lyonscornernola.com

Mandina’s Restaurant is where Creole and Italian flavors come together like family. Serving up classic favorites such as crawfish cakes, homemade seafood gumbo, veal parmesan & spaghetti, and Gulf fish meunière, this family-owned gem has been satisfying locals and visitors for decades. With their cozy atmosphere and generous portions, you and your family will be coming back for more. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

Mother’s Restaurant emulates mom-made cuisine filled with love and flavor. Since 1938, they’ve been cooking and serving up authentic flavors that feel just like home including dishes such as their famous Ferdi Special po-boys, shrimp Creole omelet, and Mae’s filé gumbo alongside other Louisiana classics. At Mother’s, you’re not just a customer—you’re treated like family. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

New Orleans Creole Cookery brings bold flavors and rich history to their menu. This is a French Quarter favorite known for its lively courtyard and classic Creole dishes such as redfish Pontchartrain, shrimp & grits, and the Taste of New Orleans sampler with red beans & rice, jambalaya, shrimp Creole, and crawfish étouffée. New Orleans Creole Cookery celebrates true New Orleans flavors. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

Neyow’s Creole Cafe is a vibrant gem offering authentic Creole cuisine with a lively atmosphere and lovely drinks. With dishes such as chargrilled oysters, Neyow’s smokin’ wings, and Shrimp on the Avenue pasta, this spot serves up generous portions and bold flavors in spades. The flavors are not to be missed at Neyow’s Creole Cafe. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neworleans.neyows.com

Neyow’s XL takes everything you love about Neyow’s Creole Cafe and suits it up, steakhouse-style. Serving up their 16 oz. ribeyes, fried lobster tails, and their XL “over the top” pasta with style, this venue blends Creole flavor with upscale presentation. At Neyow’s XL, the portions are big, the flavors bigger, and the vibe is unmistakably New Orleans. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 5031081, xl.neyows.com

Nice Guys NOLA dishes out explosive Creole and Cajun flavors with crowd-pleasers such as their chargrilled oysters, seafood rice bowls, shrimp & grits, Earhart fries, and boozy snoballs to make sure all the guys and gals are satisfied. With soul-filled flavors and a playful vibe, it’s clear that Nice Guys really knows how to cook up a good time. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com

Orleans Grapevine

Wine Bar and Bistro is offering the perfect blend of French, Cajun, and Creole cuisine in a refined yet cozy venue for all guests to enjoy. Featuring dishes such as gumbo du jour, black mussels, and ravioli Orleans, each plate can be expertly paired with selections from their extensive wine list. Head through the grapevine to Orleans Grapevine. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

Parasol’s Bar & Restaurant has boasted some of the best po-boys, gumbos, and other specialties in the city for almost 60 years. With options such as their roast beef po-boys, muffuletta sandwiches, and chicken tender baskets, this corner of the Irish Channel is satisfying many cravings. Don’t forget to grab a bite under the Parasol and enjoy the shade. 2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA

Parkway Bakery and Tavern fixes up poor boys of the highest quality with options such as their specialty house-made roast beef with gravy, alligator smoked sausage, deep fried Creole BBQ shrimp, and even a caprese poor boy. Served on crispy bread packed with bold, local flavors, these are more than sandwiches—they are New Orleans in a

bite. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

Please-U-Restaurant is dedicated to pleasing their guests from all walks of life with their menu of Southern classics united with Greek-inspired dishes. Highlights from their menu include the shrimp & oyster po-boys, half Southern fried chicken, mixed seafood platters, gyro with fries, and hearty veal or eggplant parmigianas. The name truly says it all at Please-U. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com

Short Stop Poboys has been serving up overstuffed sandwiches bursting with seasoning for over 50 years. With a menu

stacked with po-boys such as softshell crab, oysters, BBQ roast beef, and their four meat special, this stop has something for every craving. At Short Stop Poboys, there are no bites that come up short. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

The Country Club is a true gem in the Bywater neighborhood, having been in service for over 40 years. This beautiful spot incorporates elements of French, Italian, Creole, and Southern cuisine to create dishes such as crab beignets, crispy parmesan oysters, jumbo Louisiana shrimp, and more. Visit their bar for beers, mocktails, and cocktails such as the Blood Orange Spritz. 634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com

Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris offers a vibrant fusion of crispy fried chicken and creative daiquiris in New Orleans. Featuring Southern staples such as fried chicken, crawfish Natchitoches pies, and red beans & rice, their food goes great alongside a variety of fresh fruit daiquiris. Head on over and spice up your day with a little Voodoo magic. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com

SEAFOOD

Briquette is serving up more than tasty seafood and steaks—they’re serving true showstoppers. With dishes such as their snapper Pontchartrain, crawfish & goat cheese crepes, and veal osso bucco, the show

never stops, especially when paired with their international wine list from the Americas, Europe, and New Zealand. This spot doesn’t just hit the spot—it lingers long after the last bite. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquette-nola.com

Drago’s Seafood Restaurant is a mustvisit for seafood enthusiasts of all stripes and colors. Renowned for the legendary charbroiled oysters that they originated, the menu also boasts dishes such as Mama Ruth’s seafood gumbo, crunchy fried shrimp platters, and its succulent lobster marco, all bursting with flavor. No matter what, Drago’s delivers big flavors with plenty of heart. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com

Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox is for true seafood lovers. The restaurant reels in big flavors and offers terrific textures with their chargrilled oysters and creamy shrimp & grits, as well as their crispy South Georgia chicken sandwiches. Serving up comfort food with enough kick to keep you on your toes, Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox is here to please. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com

The Galley Seafood hauls in flavor by the boatload with fresh Gulf catches, as well as that iconic Southern charm we all know and love. From buttery, buttery crab legs to golden fried shrimps, this menu hooks seafood lovers of all stripes. When you come hungry, be prepared to leave shell-shocked by the explosive flavors they’re serving up. 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955

LAISSEZ LES VEGAN TEMPS ROULER

By Matt A. Sheen

The Vegan Times are A Rollin'

If you’re vegan, food can be a little trickier to find in crawfish country, and there isn’t much joy of living to be had if you can’t get what you want to eat.

Folks around the world love New Orleans for its music, food, and joie de vivre, but while music seems to waft from every open window in the city—when it’s not being played right on the sidewalk—vegan-friendly fare on par with the town’s traditional tastes does exist, albeit sometimes in surprising places hiding in plain sight.

Common varieties of gumbo, a dish emblematic of New Orleans, include chicken, sausage, or seafood, but the dish has a traditional meat-free version developed for Lent— gumbo z’herbes. Situated in the French Quarter, the Gumbo Shop continues this tradition, though, according to Assistant Manager Tiffany Burgin, perhaps to meet a different need. “Most of the people that we see asking for gumbo z’herbes are either vegetarians or vegans,” she said. “We do sell more of it during Lent, but it is very popular year round.”

Sweet Lorraine’s Jazz Club provides not only live music performances by local luminaries and international stars. The long-established family-owned supper club maintains a dedicated sub-menu of vegan variations of favorite dishes. With everything from a hand-held “oyster,” as in oyster mushrooms, po-boy—a plant-based alternative to the Big Easy’s signature sandwich—to red beans and rice served with a vegan alternative to andouille sausage, it’s a true New Orleans experience.

New Orleans is an international city, and its foodways reflect the different cultural traditions of its population. Two-time winner of the Vegan Chef Challenge, Thaihey has a substantial number of vegan dishes that reflect the influence of Buddhist beliefs in Thailand. Two local izakayas, a style of Japanese bar that serves small-plate dishes, offer vegan options. Sukeban, in the Riverbend neighborhood, regularly features several vegan temaki (sushi hand rolls) on its menu following the style of shojin ryori, the vegan diet of Japanese Buddhist monks. Nikkei, a new bar and restaurant inside the Broadside event venue, has numerous vegan plates that reflect the various culinary traditions of the Japanese diaspora, using locally-sourced foods and incorporating a hint of regional influence. This is evident in the crispy nori tacos, a favorite of diners both vegan and not.

In the city’s Central Business District, Espiritu Mezcaleria and Cocina serves the traditional food of Mexico, including dishes hailing from southern and central Mexico, the culinary traditions of which are less well represented on this side of the border and which include a much larger percentage of plant-based recipes. A number of vegan tacos appear on the menu including jackfruit, rojas, mushroom tinga, and the stalwart cauliflower taco.

If you just want typical American fare such as a burger or pizza, you can find a no-beef patty at the Original Slap Burger, located in the Bywater watering hole Marie’s Bar and Kitchen. The restaurant uses hand-made vegan meats and cheeses supplied by local provider Life Is Good and even has a vegan version of the in-house Mack sauce.

For plant-based ‘za, G’s Pizza in Mid-City will modify any of their gourmet pizzas for a vegan

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options, either sorbets or other plant-based frozen desserts, rotating various deliciously exotic flavors.

The French Quarter Louisiana Pizza Kitchen also carries a changing menu of decadent desserts, including the award-winning s’mores cheesecakes, by Deuxbelle Vegan Pastries and Confections, which are also available through the vegan caterer’s Instagram, Shopify, and Facebook pages.

As for king cake, the locally-beloved signature dessert of the annual Mardi Gras season, purists may squawk about a vegan variety. More than one commenter on social media has called it “a sacrilege;” however, so many liberties are already routinely taken with what was, in its original form, essentially a cinnamon coffee cake, there is little room to argue against this one particular innovation.

Some places you wouldn’t expect to offer a vegan version provide them to order, including

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A SPICY HISTORY

Jambalaya Mix

By Emily Hingle

Other Jambalaya Mixes of Louisiana

MAM PAPAUL’S

Founded by Nancy Wilson, Mam Papaul’s started out as Cajun Care Packages in 1972, and they claim to be the first brand to have NOLA-style dinner entrees packaged in boxes. The company is based in Harvey.

RAGIN’ CAJUN

Headquartered in Lafayette, Ragin’ Cajun states that their veggies, herbs, and spices are either grown locally or imported from premium growing regions.

Jambalaya is possibly the most multicultural food dish developed in Louisiana.

Fusing locally-available ingredients with influences from African and European culinary traditions, the heavily-spiced rice and meat dish is made across the state, varying from deep brown in the western areas to vibrant red in the east. More than a dozen locally-blended mixes line store shelves today, and many of the options have histories that go back decades.

Grocer Emile Zatarain Sr. premiered his Papoose Root Beer formula at the Louisiana Exposition in 1889. Eventually making the product into an extract, his company grew into the Papoose Pure Food Products, headquartered at 925 Valmont St., where he expanded into pickling and spice blends. In 1922, Emile’s sons took over the business and reincorporated it into E.A. Zatarain & Sons, Inc. and Zatarain’s Pure Food Products. The family sold the company in 1963 to James Grinstead Viavant, who modernized the manufacturing of the products at a larger facility in Gretna.

After being sold time again throughout the 1980s, McCormick acquired Zatarain’s from Citigroup Venture Capital and other investors for $180 million in 1993. Most Zatarain’s products are still made in Gretna.

Anthony Chachere was a successful drug salesman, eventually starting his own drug wholesale business called the Louisiana Drug Company in 1935. Chachere retired from this business at 50 years old, but he took a job with Equitable Life Insurance Society two years later. He retired again at 65. Now doubly retired from a highly successful career, Chachere had time to write a cookbook based on his own recipes.

Cajun Country Cookbook was published in 1972, and he founded Tony Chachere’s Creole Foods the same year. For his efforts of promoting Cajun food, he was the very first inductee of the Louisiana Chefs Hall of Fame. Tony Chachere’s Creole Foods is family-owned and operated in Opelousas, LA, with Tony’s grandson Don Chachere at the helm. Due to the immense popularity of Tony Chachere products, the company opened Mr. Tony’s Country Store in

2022, where fans of the brand can get merchandise and gifts, as well as a peek into the production facility itself.

Tony Pizzolato grew his Baton Rouge-based company from a produce stand in 1959 to a successful seafood store in 1972. The fresh seafood was a great seller, but Pizzolato’s own well-seasoned fried seafood was a big hit. Louisiana Fish Fry Products was officially established in 1982 with a focus on fry mixes for seafood and other meats. Since then, the company expanded to seafood boil seasonings, sauces, and rice mixes. MidOcean Partners acquired the company in 2021; however, Louisiana Fish Fry Products is still headquartered in Baton Rouge. Marcus Spears was named Chief Fry Officer in 2023, and Chef Mindea of Atlanta was crowned VP of Fried Chicken after winning the Louisiana Fried Chicken Sandwich Challenge, hosted in New York, in 2024.

You can also visit Tony’s Seafood Market & Deli, which has live and boil seafood, catering services, groceries, and plate lunches that have the original flavor that made Louisiana Fish Fry famous.

The father of Jambalaya Girl’s owner Kristen Predu, named Paul, manufactured gas burners and other cookers for top Louisiana chefs, including Chef Paul Prudhomme. She was cooking jambalaya and other popular Creole and Cajun dishes alongside her father all her life until founding her own company in 2010. This brand distributes from New Orleans and ha s garnered a Certified Louisiana seal. Preau encourages her fans to join the Jambalaya Girl Cooking Club by submitting photos of their families enjoying her products.

Hailing from Houma, the Autin family started Three Little Pigs Sausages in 1910. Autin’s Cajun Cookery came along in 1989 so that the popular Cajun seasoning blends they crafted could reach a wider audience. Currently, Autin’s has five food mixes in stores including Chili Mix, Dirty Rice Mix, and Jambalaya Mix, all of which carry a Certified Cajun seal.

Whether you make it rich brown or fiery red, mild or super spicy, meat-heavy or vegan, jambalaya is a local dish that has a colorful, spicy history.

SLAP YA MAMA

In 1996, the Walker Family owned a convenience store/deli in Ville Platte. They created a popular seasoning blend that added more products over the years.

KARY’S ROUX

Kary’s Roux products are distributed by Kary’s Roux & Pig Stand Bar-B-Q Sauce in Ville Platte.

CAMELLIA BRAND

Connelly, Ken, and Vince Hayward write that their “great grandfather started selling red beans in the French Market.” Camellia Brand has operated in Elmwood since the 1970s.

WE DAT’S

We Dat’s is a Black-owned fried chicken and seafood restaurant chain in New Orleans. The company more recently ventured into packaged seasonings and food mixes distributed from New Orleans.

OAK GROVE SMOKEHOUSE

Oak Grove Smokehouse is headquartered in Prairieville.

CAJUN FRY

Cajun Fry Products is headquartered in Pierre Part, LA.

FAST FOOD FIGHT

Attack of the Smash Burgers

By Shane Finkelstein

The original intention for this article was to write about all the different types of local fast food burger options there are in New Orleans; however, I discovered that most of our fast food burgers are smash burgers.

Smash burgers are loosely-packed balls of ground beef smashed on a griddle to create a thin, crusty burger, usually served in doubles. The advantage to smash burgers is the cook time, where a burger can be served in under two minutes while a thick flame-broiled burger can take up to 10 minutes to cook. The differences between the burgers at our local joints are subtle, but worth noting, so let’s take a look at what’s cooking around town.

ATOMIC BURGER

3934 Veteran Blvd., theatomicburger.com

Atomic Burger feels like it was designed to be a franchise from the get-go. Its sleek, modern interior has been outfitted with self-service counters, so on our recent visit, we only saw the one employee who handed us our food without uttering a word. The Atomic Burger comes with beef ground in-house, American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a choice of five different signature A.B. sauces ($.50). The standouts were the thick hand-cut fries, which were our favorite of the six burger joints we visited. One disappointment was the shake, which tasted good, but was so thick it was impossible to drink through a straw.

Atomic Burger: $8.99; Fries: $3.99; Soda: $2.99

BUB’S BURGERS

Multiple Locations, bubsnola.com

Bub’s Burgers burst on the scene with their popular pop-ups before finding a home in Mid-City on Banks Street. A second location, Bub’s Grab & Go, which was the one that was visited for this article, opened on Freret Street late last year in the location formerly known as Good Bird. These burgers are smashed super-thin and are bursting out of their excellent brioche buns. They are topped with griddled onions, cheese, homemade bread and butter pickles, and their signature Bub’s sauce. Both Thrillist and Eater named Bub’s Burgers in their top burgers in America lists. Of note here are the flash-fried Brussels sprouts, served crispy and tossed in a sweet and spicy Sriracha Honey Glaze.

Bub’s Burger: $9.50; Fries: $5.00; Bottled Soda: $3.00

BUD’S BROILER

Multiple Locations, No website (that’s about as retro as you can get)

Yes, we know, Bud’s Broiler is not a smash burger. It’s a flame broiled burger served with traditional toppings: grated cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and thinly-sliced raw red onions. There have been many iterations of this long-time local staple and even a fairly new one on Canal Boulevard near City Park. Bud’s is a nofrills burger joint where you order at the counter, take a number, and wait about 10 minutes for your food. If you like flame broiled burgers with the unmistakable smokey flavor, then Bud’s serves a serviceable version, made even more worthy by the price point, which even beats some of the national burger chains.

Burger: $4.50; Fries: $1.99; Medium Soda: $2.75

BURGER NERDS

Multiple Locations, burgernerds.com

Like Bub’s Burgers, Burger Nerds was born as a pop-up in 2020, but they recently found a home in Metairie just off Veterans Highway near Bonnabel. A second brickand-mortar location has popped up now near the Tulane campus on Maple Street. Burger Nerds’ menu looks nearly identical to Bub’s with their burgers, fries, and Brussels sprouts, but, there, the queso burger got equal billing to the traditional burger options. The stand-out at Burger Nerds was the meat, cooked and seasoned a little better than Bub’s, and complemented by American cheese, pickles, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and Nerd Sauce. However, the bun didn’t match up to the brioche options at some of the other burger joints. The fries are not handcut, but they are seasoned nicely with Cajun spices. Their Brussels sprouts were to die for—a huge portion topped with okonomi sauce, Kewpie mayo, crispy shallots, and furikake

Classic Burger: $14.00; Fries: $3.00; Soda: $3.00

COMPANY BURGER

4600 Freret St., thecompanyburger.com

Founded in 2011, Company Burger was one of the first fast food burger joints in the city and quickly garnered national attention with accolades in Food & Wine Magazine, Esquire, and CNN. They grind their own hormone-andantibiotic-free patties, bake their own buns, and the pickles and several different mayo options are all made from scratch. Also of note is their additional offerings, including the incredible lamb burger, hand-cut fries, and thick milk shakes.

The only issue with Company Burger is the price, as a burger with fries, shake, tax, and tip costs over $25.

The Company Burger: $10.50; Fries: $5.50; Soda: $2.50

ORIGINAL SLAP BURGER

2483 Burgundy St., originalslapburger.com

Tucked away in the back of Marie’s Bar and Kitchen, a dive bar in the Bywater, is a takeout window selling the best smash burgers in the city. A note next to the window apologizes to fans for their popularity and growing pains. Going early on a Monday evening led to a successful in and out time within 10 minutes. This led to an inhaling of the OG Burger at Marie’s Bar with an Abita Andygator. Served in singles and doubles, the Original OG comes with grilled onions, melted cheese, dill pickles, and a delicious Slap Sauce on a toasted brioche bun. The side of fries were ordinary, but the burger made Original Slap Burger the standout of the ones that were visited and definitely made it worth the visit to the Bywater.

The OG Burger: $14.00; Fries: $3.00; Andygator: $5.00

Quality Light Beer

FORMAL SHORTS

A Summer Restaurant Challenge

By Julie Mitchell

Let’s paint a picture. You’re from old money. You have a grandmother who married rich, found oil, and/or invested. She’s gone, but her money has stayed. You have a cushy job at a bank or a real estate firm or different bank. Your world is just fine. The main problem is how to dress for lunch in the summer?

It’s so hot. You’re trying to follow the rules of social conduct for stuffy whites passed down for generations, but your calves? They’re so sweaty. This is where formal shorts come in. Riding a horse for graduation? Formal shorts. Senator’s pool party? Formal shorts. Lunch with a client in August? Formal shorts.

Formal shorts are the universe’s way of saying, “I’m a person who has needs, but I’m still rich. I never get diarrhea, and I’ve never voted—unless you want me to, then I have every time.” Formal shorts are the answer to the question, “What’s he wearing?” said with jealousy and disdain. We’re here to help. Strap in, it’s going to be a bumpy ride full of seersucker and loop hems.

LENGTH

This is a question all men must ask themselves at one time or another: How short do I want these shorts? Fortunately, there’s only one correct answer, and there’s a formula to help remember. Take the full length of your knee, divide by two, and then add four. It’s like the rule for how young you can date, but men actually care about this one.

If you’re a large-kneed fellow, you should be considerate of hem width as well, because your knees might take some of the length in depth—if you know, you know. A good rule is that the shorts should never be kissing your thighs or calves. They should sit a comfortable height above the knee, like a French teen watching tennis from a hill. If you don’t get that reference, you’re not rich enough and, apologies, this guide is not for you.

MATERIAL

Remember the SAT? Or ACT? Or LSAT? This is like that but more important. Relationships are made or broken by the material of formal shorts and you won’t know the difference until the invitations to cricket watch parties and Oscar betting rings dry up. You’ll be upstream without a paddle or a servant with long arms.

You never want a blend—that’s the first thing. Blends are simply out of the question— for your daughter’s fiancé and for the shorts. A starched cotton is respectable, a stretch twill is reasonable, a linen is ideal, and a seersucker is divine. CTLS, if you can’t remember. These materials will breathe, hold their shape, and not wrinkle too visibly.

PATTERN

There has never been a more important question than the question of a pattern for a formal short. The less material, the more important the pattern. If you’re thinking, “Do I need a pattern? I was going to wear a solid color,” then you’re a fool. What a grave mistake you almost made. Think of someone you trust. Are they wearing a solid color? Of course not. They’re wearing a pattern.

The busier the pattern, the busier the mind, which means they’re too distracted to be sneaky. All sneaky people throughout history—Alexander Hamilton, Monica Lewinsky— do you know what they have in common? Solid colors. You’d be hard-pressed to find a deviant who wears patterns, and you don’t want to start. Exactly what pattern is a matter

of preference but never an animal you couldn’t kill. Cats, dogs, fish, deer? Fine. Leopard? Only if you’re an excellent marksman. Shark? Not on your life. Goat? Sure. Peacock? Of course. They’re very slow. Squirrel or goldfish? These are all safe animal patterns. Crocodile? You better have some photos ready because those are shorts you’re going to need to back up.

There are allowable non-animal patterns, but too much could go wrong. These are more for a seasoned formal shorts-wearer. How thick should the stripes be if you’re meeting a woman with brown hair who’s older than you and unmarried? If you don’t know, you shouldn’t even be considering it.

IN YOUR POCKETS

This is a controversial one. You’ve been warned. What a man or woman carries in their pockets is no one’s business but their own; however, four rules apply to everyone, and you’d do well to follow them:

• Nothing living • Nothing wet

• Nothing cursed

SHOES

• Nothing sharp that can’t fold

The final and most important part of the ensemble. Would you buy a million dollar home and paint the driveway green or plant daisies? Shoes are the driveways of the legs. Shoes can be a lot of things: comfortable, daring, white, and/or ugly. But which shoe is perfect for you? Only the shorts can decide.

What you’re looking for in a shorts/shoe relationship is trust and a little drama. The shorts and shoes shouldn’t be saying the same thing, but they should agree. If the shorts are pink linen, the shoes could be pastel, designed for a boat, have a little wedge, or perhaps even two toned. In this case, they wouldn’t be leather, black, or have metal of any kind. This relationship is one of intuition and style; you have to “feel” what shoe is right for the shorts—never the other way around. The shorts should be guiding this process, always.

Does the shoe feel too heavy for the shorts? Reach for a lighter shoe. Always be ready to toss ‘em and try again. If you’ve followed our guidelines up to this point, you should have a relatively easy time. When in doubt, a gray loafer is rarely incorrect and a brown sneaker is rarely correct. Happy lunching.

GIFTING

Celebrate Dad's 1st Father’s Day with Unique NOLA Gifts

As any new parent will tell you, being a dad can be the hardest and the most gratifying job in the world. From changing diapers to nighttime feedings, firsttime fathers take on a variety of roles—so what better way to appreciate these efforts than only-inNOLA gifts within the family budget?

By Celeste Turner

To help you find the perfect gift for his first Father’s Day, Where Y'at has curated a selection of New Orleans-inspired items from local shops—all under $100—to show how truly special every new and expectant father is.

“Being a new parent is most difficult and, yet, most rewarding,” said Beverly Rafferty Caldwell, a mother of an 8-month-old son. “The house definitely got louder, and we do not always sleep through the night. But, it is fun.” Caldwell plans to make her husband’s first Father’s Day truly unforgettable with a NOLAthemed gift from local clothing store Perlis

Caldwell, who is director of marketing for perlis.com, revealed that the $20 Louisiana recipe apron, displaying New Orleans’ iconic recipes, is the ideal gift for her husband, who enjoys grilling and making gumbo.

Another recommendation by Caldwell is the popular Mexican wedding shirt, or guayabera, for new or expecting fathers. This shirt, which costs $85, is embroidered with different designs and made of 50% cotton, 50% linen. “The guayabera shirt is super light and a popular gift item for fathers who like to go to Jazz Fest,” Caldwell said. Perlis has four locations, including the Magazine Street store, a shop in Jax Brewery, in Mandeville, and in Baton Rouge.

The first year of fatherhood is filled

FIRST-TIME FATHERS

with memories and milestones, and regular storytime sessions can help dads build a connection with their baby. “We carry a variety of dad-themed children’s books that would be perfect for dads to read to young readers,” Betsy Becker, owner of Zukababy at 701 Metairie Rd., said.

Becker highlighted the Babies Love Daddy: Lift-A-Flap Book at $7.99. “This charming book uses animals to play the parts of the families,“ Becker said. “The sturdy flaps will last for years of daddy ‘n’ me storytime.”

If you’re buying for a first-time father who is active and likes to exercise, Darlene Yetta, owner of Once Upon A Child in Metairie, suggests the jog stroller, currently priced at $90. First-time dads can maintain their fast-paced schedule while keeping their baby comfortable in this jog stroller. Other memorable gifts for Father’s Day include the Men’s Backpack Diaper Bag at $20, Front Baby Carrier at $15, or the assortment of dad-themed apparel ranging in price from $1.50 to $6.50. Owned and operated by local business owners, Once Upon A Child, located at 3122 Severn Ave., is your budget-friendly, one-stop shop for growing families.

For the new dad who is a weekend reveler, The Baby’s Room, located at 1217 N. Causeway Blvd. in Metairie, showcases the Bevvy Stroller Basket Cooler, priced at $69. This little ice chest fits in a stroller basket, which is ideal for transporting drinks to outdoor events, parades, and parties. The Baby’s Room, a local small business offering all things baby, also sells customized beer mugs for expecting fathers at $24.99.

For the new dad who celebrates New Orleans and everything jazz, the $52 Fest Shirt Door Hanger from local art and gift store Home Malone ranks at the top of the list. This door hanger, featuring festival shirt patterns and designed by local artist Kristin Malone, is waterproof and ready to hang indoors or outdoors. Another especially thoughtful dad

gift from Home Malone includes custom-designed, leather-wrapped lowball glasses for just $29. Home Malone has two locations—629 N. Carrollton Ave. in Mid-City and 4610 Magazine St. in the Uptown area.

For the first-time father who loves history, the WWII Bombers Planes Aloha Shirt, priced at $60, is a wise choice available at the National WWII Museum Store at 945 Magazine St. The museum’s $75 individual membership for Father’s Day can also be the ultimate gift that keeps on giving.

For the stylish new dad, check out the Red Lantern, a small business at 824 Royal St. that collaborates with local designers. Appealing to new and expecting fathers who are fashionable and funky, their wide range of funny and witty socks will provide comic relief to any first-time dad. Reasonably priced at $14.95, you can browse their dad-themed socks, including the “Here Comes Cool Dad” and “The Rad Dad” designs, for your Father’s Day gift.

Comfort is the name of the game for the sporty first-time dad who is elbowdeep in spit-up and dirty diapers. Virtually every item at Dirty Coast, located at 5415 Magazine St. and in the French Quarter at 630 Chartres St., offers a variety of casual apparel for new dads. Owned by locals, Dirty Coast takes pride in their stand-out NOLA X DAD Hat by 47’ Brands at $28, as well as their World’s Best Jazz Dad Koozie at $8.

Of course, after rocking the baby for hours and handling their portable crib, a new father may be in need of some R&R. Suggested by Matt Brown, general manager of Canal Place, consider a cozy pajama set in cotton herringbone priced at $98 from J.Crew in Canal Place. He added that new dads and dads-to-be may also enjoy something to make them smell good, such as the Royall Rugby cologne priced at $55 from Brooks Brothers. With Father’s Day approaching, first-time fathers will appreciate gifts that offer a moment of respite in their busy, hands-on lives. Whether it’s a thoughtful book, a festive shirt, or a pair of funny socks, these gifts under $100 provide a chance to celebrate the day dedicated to new and expecting fathers.

WHO’S YOUR DADDY?

Iconic Fathers of New Orleans

By Brooke Adams

Remembering the Famous Dads of New Orleans Who Left a Lasting Cultural Impact on our City.

Father’s Day is upon us, and while we might all have different ways of celebrating—be it with barbecue, a well-deserved nap, or a gift that doesn’t involve another tie—it’s the perfect time to

Edgar

From cultural icons to community leaders, New Orleans has a rich history of fathers who not only raised families but also left lasting marks on our culture. So, this Father’s Day, we’re asking the question: Who’s your daddy? No, seriously. Who are the dads who helped make New Orleans the city we know and love today?

Let’s take a moment to honor some iconic fathers who did it all: raised kids, changed history, and made us proud to call this place home. After all, what’s more New Orleans than family, food, music, and a bit of good old-fashioned dad humor?

Fats Domino (1928-2017)

Why did Fats Domino bring a pencil to the piano? Because he wanted to draw a crowd.

Antoine “Fats” Domino wasn’t just a rock ‘n’ roll pioneer—he was the heartbeat of New Orleans rhythm and blues. Born and raised in the Lower Ninth Ward, his rolling piano style and smooth vocals turned hits, including “Blueberry Hill” and “Ain’t That a Shame,” into American classics.

But beyond the music, Fats was a devoted father of eight, balancing chart-topping fame

Allison “Tootie” Montana (1922-2005)

Why did Tootie Montana always wear such flashy suits? Because he believed in “beading” a good impression.

Allison “Tootie” Montana was the Big Chief of the Yellow Pocahontas Mardi Gras Indians for over 50 years, shaping the Black masking Indian tradition into the vibrant, artistic celebration it is today. Born and raised in New Orleans, Tootie learned to sew his first suit as a child, carrying on his family’s legacy.

“Dooky” Chase, Jr. (1928-2016)

Why did Dooky Chase bring a ladder to the restaurant?

Because he wanted to take his cooking to new heights.

Edgar “Dooky” Chase Jr. was more than just the man behind Dooky Chase’s Restaurant. He was a jazz musician, civil rights advocate, and cultural icon. As a teen, he led the Dooky Chase Orchestra and helped integrate New Orleans’ music scene—even organizing one of the city’s first racially mixed concerts.

In 1946, he married Leah Lange Chase, an icon in her own right, and, together, they transformed his family’s Tremé restaurant into a fine-dining institution and a meeting place for civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall. While Leah made history in the kitchen, Dooky Jr. was a force in business and labor rights, ensuring Black workers had a seat at the economic table.

His legacy lives on through his family and the still-thriving Dooky Chase’s Restaurant—a place where history, food, and culture collide in true New Orleans fashion.

with a deep love for family and home. Even at the height of his success, he stayed rooted in New Orleans, cooking for friends and neighbors and keeping his doors open to the community. When Hurricane Katrina loomed and would devastate our beloved city, he refused to abandon the place he loved. Fans feared the worst, until he was found safe. His resilience became a symbol of the city’s spirit, and he later performed at benefit concerts to help rebuild New Orleans. President George W. Bush honored him with a replacement National Medal of Arts in 2006 after the original was lost in the flood.

Fats Domino’s legacy isn’t just in the music—it’s in the soul of New Orleans itself, where his boogie-woogie spirit still lingers.

Pete Fountain (1930-2016)

Why did Pete Fountain bring his clarinet to the party? Because he knew how to blow everyone away.

Pete Fountain was New Orleans’ jazz clarinet legend—a man whose smooth, lilting melodies became the soundtrack of the city. Born and raised in the Crescent City, Fountain’s mastery of the clarinet made him a star both at home and beyond.

Whether playing in the jazz clubs of Bourbon Street or performing for national television audiences, his signature sound became synonymous with New Orleans jazz.

A father and family man, Fountain balanced his busy career with a love for his hometown. His performances brought New Orleans jazz to the world, but he always stayed grounded in the local music scene, working with everyone from Louis Armstrong to Frank Sinatra.

Fountain’s influence is still felt today in the vibrant jazz culture of New Orleans. With every note he played, he kept the heart of the city alive, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Known for his elaborate, beaded, and feathered suits, Tootie shifted the focus of Mardi Gras Indians from conflict to pageantry, creating a sense of pride and community. His artistry elevated the cultural significance of the Indians, making their parades one of the city’s most anticipated events.

Tootie was also a family man, passing down the leadership of the tribe to his son Darryl in the late ’90s. His legacy lives on in the colorful traditions and deep pride of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Indian culture.

For the Dads

While the dads we’ve highlighted might not be with us today, their legacies are alive and well in the streets, music, food, and culture of New Orleans. They taught us that being a dad isn’t just about providing. It’s also about leading by example, making a difference, and, sometimes, just being there to share a laugh, even if it’s at the expense of bad dad jokes.

So as you kick back and enjoy your Father’s Day, remember that the fathers of this city have given us much more than great stories. They’ve given us a culture that celebrates life, love, and the importance of family. Here’s to the dads who shaped New Orleans and to all the dads who continue to make an impact every day. Happy Father’s Day.

MUSIC CALENDAR

SUNDAY, MAY 25

21st Amendment Dominick Grillo, Marty Peters

30/90 Andre Lovett, Funhouse

Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo

Bamboula’s Aaron Levinson

BJ’s Lounge James McClaskey, Rhythm Band

Blue Nile Kayla Jasmine

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!

Café Beignet on Decatur Central Standard

Time

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Sam Warren

Paradigm Gardens Mikayla Braun

Pour House Saloon Dave Jordan

The Broadside Simple Tix

The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Tipitina’s Tom Petty

MONDAY, MAY 26

21st Amendment John Lisi, Delta Funk

Allways Lounge Betsy Propane Apple Barrel Decaturadio

BJ’s Lounge Red Beans N’ Blues, Luke Allen

Bacchanal Byron Asher

Bamboula’s Jon Roniger, Sugar N’ Blue Banks Street Micah McKee

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Kid Merv, All That Jazz

Cafe Negril Gumbo Funk

Café Beignet Bob Macy

Capulet Susanne Ortner

Care Forgot Beercraft Dan Frigolette

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

D.B.A. Jump Hounds, Secret Six Jazz

Da Jump Off Big 6 Brass Band

Dos Jefes John Fohl

Fritzel’s Jazz Richard Scott, Tin Men

Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

MRB Ben Buchbinder

Mahogany Jazz Hall Nick Solnick Trio

Maple Leaf Bar George Porter Jr. Trio

NOLA Brewing & Pizza Bluegrass Pickin’ Party

Preservation Hall Preservation Brass

Royal Frenchmen Jazz Vipers

Snug Harbor Charmaine Neville Band

The Maison Gene’s Music Machine

Tropical Isle Original Dave Ferrato, Charles Brewer

TUESDAY, MAY 27

Bamboula’s Giselle Anguizola Quartet, John Saavedra

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Café Beignet Bob Macy

Capulet Lady O, The Expats

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dos Jefes

Tom Hook

Fritzel’s Jazz Colin Myers Orchestra, Richard “Piano” Scott

Hideout Bar Kid Merv, All That Jazz

Holy Diver The Amazing Henrietta Kermit’s Tremé Irvin Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins

Mahogany Jazz Big Joe Kennedy, Leroy Jones

NOLA Guitar Studio Micheal Joseph Christie

National Park Service FQ Arrowhead Jazz Band

No Dice The Soap Girls

Royal Frenchmen Jaudai Vappie

Salon Salon Silver Lining Serenaders

Snug Harbor Stanton Moore Trio

Spotted Cat Music Club Smoking Time Jazz

The Jazz Playhouse Amber Rachelle

The Maison Jacky Blaire, Paradise Jazz Band

Tropical Isle Original Dave Ferrato, Charles Brewer

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28

Bacchanal Jesse Morrow

Bamboula’s Edgewood Park Syncopators, The Queen

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Buffa’s Eric Merchant

Cafe Negril Jam-ilton, Soul Tribe

Café Beignet Bob Macy

Café Degas Double Whisky

Capulet The GET

Chickie Wah Wah Jon Cleary, Lamont Landers

King Center

Renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli will return to New Orleans, performing with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Steven Mercurio, for a show featuring beloved arias and crossover hits. Tuesday, June 10, 8 p.m., $110.60 to $1,160.30, smoothiekingcenter.com

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

D.B.A. Lagniappe Brass Band, Stephen Walker

N’em

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Fillmore Ryan Bingham

Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Richard “Piano” Scott

Hotel Monteleone James Martin

MRB Lynn Drury

Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Hall All Stars,

Tom Fischer

National Park Service FQ Saskia Walker, Larry

Sieberth

Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars, Branden Lewis

Royal Frenchmen Kermit Ruffins, BBQ

Swingers

Snug Harbor Richard Moten, Uptown Jazz

Orchestra

Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band

The Jazz Playhouse Big Sam

The Maison Leroy Marshall Band

Tipitina’s Reverend Horton Heat

Vaughan’s Lounge Glo Worm Trio

THURSDAY, MAY 29

21st Amendment Amber Rachelle, Sweet

Potatoes

Bacchanal Raphael Bas

Bamboula’s Cristina Kaminis, Wolfe John’s Band

BJ’s Lounge Tuba Skinny

Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield

BMC Balcony Music Club French Quarter

Pounders, Maurice Cade

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Audrey, CrawZaddies

Bratz Y’all Joey Houck & Dean Zucchero

Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Tim Laughlin

Café Beignet Bob Macy

Cafe Negril Armani Smith, Sunny Side

Candlelight Lounge Royal Caravan

Capulet Daphne Parker Powell

Carousel Bar & Lounge Lena Prima, Leslie Martin Trio

Carrollton Station Caitie B., Fizzy N’ The Budz

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

D.B.A. Palmetto Bug Stompers

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Dew Drop Inn Sunni Patterson

Dog House, The Craig the Canine Crooner

Fausto’s Italian Bistro Glo Worm Trio

Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Doyle Cooper Band, Richard

“Piano” Scott

Holy Diver Corpus Offal, Mephitic Corpse

House of Blues Big Soul Band

Mahogany Jazz Hall New Orleans Catahoulas

May Baily’s Place Jerry Dugger

Mid-City Lanes Chubby Carrier, Bayou Swamp

Band

MRB Jamey St. Pierre

No Dice Matt Pless

Orpheum Theater John Saavedra

Tonk Revue

Peacock Room Robin

Barnes & Pat Casey

Preservation Hall

Preservation All-Stars, Wendell Brunious

Press Room D’Batiste, Jeremy Habegger

Royal Frenchmen Glen

David Andrews

Salon Salon Maxwell

Poulos

Snug Harbor Grayson

Brockamp, New Orleans

Wildlife Band

The Jazz Playhouse

Brass-A-Holics

The Press Room

D’Batiste

Three Muses Jacky

Blaire, Hot Biscuits

Tropical Isle Bourbon

Mark Barrett, First Calls

FRIDAY, MAY 30

Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green

Bamboula’s 3rd Degree

Brass Band, New Orleans

Dos Jefes Betty Shirley

Favela Chic New

Orleans Rug Cutters

Frat House, The The Big Soul Band

Fritzel’s Jazz Pub

Rug Cutters

Blue Nile Caesar Brothers, Kermit Ruffins

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Bratz Y’all Tom Worrell, Dean Zucchero

Buffa’s Washboard Chaz Blues Trio

Cafe Negril Jamey St. Pierre, Honeycreepers

Carousel Bar & Lounge Nayo Jones, Royal

Street Brass Band

Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band

Chickie Wah Wah Little Freddie King

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Deutsches Haus Singers-DamenchorSaengenchor?

Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge Sunni

Patterson, Sweet Southern Heat

Dos Jefes The Afrodiziac’s Jazz

Fillmore New Orleans Berlioz, Curren$y

Frat House The Big Soul Band

Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Richard “Piano” Scott, Sam Lobley Band

Gasa Gasa Hotel Burgundy, Gold Connections

Hard Rock Cafe Offbeat Anthems

Holy Diver Rik Slave

Jean Lafitte Auditorium After Party, Clay Cormier

Joy Theater Orion Sun

MRB Sam Price

Mahogany Jazz Hall Delfeayo Marsalis Quintet

Marigny Brasserie Caitie B., Hand Me Downs

May Baily’s Place Blue Horn Jazz Band, High Standards

NOLA Brewing & Pizza Dave Jordan Trio

New Orleans Jazz Museum Belinda Moody

Preservation Hall Preservation All-Stars, Mark Braud

Press Room Or Shovaly Plus

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

The Maison Johnny J, Shotgun Jazz Band

Tipitina’s Gov’t Majik, Bakey’s Brew

SATURDAY, MAY 31

21st Amendment John Lisi, Delta Funk

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

BMC Balcony French Quarter Pounders, Sierra Green

Bacchanal Amari Ansari, Miles Berry

Bamboula’s James McClaskey, Paggy Prine

Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson

Blue Nile George Brown Band, Next Level Band

Buffa’s Dr. Sick, The Freudian Slips

Cafe Negril Jason Neville, Rue Fiya

Carousel Bar & Lounge Lena Prima, Mecca

Notes

Courtyard Brewery Sariyah Idan

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport

Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge Sam Warren, Sweet Southern Heat

Bourbon Matinee Jazz Band, Steve DeTroy Band

Gasa Gasa Wim Tapley, The Cannons

Hard Rock Cafe Bubbles Brown

Holy Diver Leche, T.A.C.K.

Jazz & Heritage Center Waylon Thibodeaux, Dwayne Dopsie

Jean Lafitte Auditorium Dwayne Dopsie, Tracy

Lawrence

Joy Theater Bingo Loco

Kermit’s Tremé Kermit Ruffins

Le Bon Temps Roule Reverend Rob B. Mortimer

MRB Wolfe Johns

Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French Trio, Smoking Time Jazz Club

May Baily’s Place The Shuck’s Brothers, The Villains

NOLA Brewing & Pizza Maw Maw

Orpheum Theater Jenavieve Cooke

Pirogue’s Whiskey Bayou Andrew Jobin

Pour House Saloon Jamie Lynn Vessels

Press Room Or Shovaly Plus

Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin

Royal Frenchmen Glen David Andrews

Snug Harbor Yusa, World of Rhythms

Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band, Twerk

Thomson Band

The Maison The Cajun Troubadours, NOLA Axe Men

Tropical Isle Bourbon Mark Barrett, The First Calls

SUNDAY, JUNE 1

Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk, The Bad Sandys

Broadside Dave Jordan

Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!

Celebration Hall Yung Dex Brass, Young Fellaz Brass

Constantinople Stage Dave Jordan

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Sweet Southern Heat

Jazz & Heritage Center Corey Ledet, Black Magic

Jean Lafitte Auditorium Aaron Foret, Louisiana Landfall

Orpheum Theater Samara Joy Saturn Bar T Marie, Lily Unless The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

MONDAY, JUNE 2

Buffa’s David Doucet

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Big 6 Brass Band NOLA Brewing & Pizza Bluegrass Pickin’ Party

TUESDAY, JUNE 3

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Royal Frenchmen Cristina Kaminis Salon Salon Or Shovaly Plus

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz Club

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Broadside Caleb Caudle

Cafe Istanbul Sariyah Idan

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat

Gasa Gasa The body, Sunrot

Hotel Monteleone James Martin

Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band

THURSDAY, JUNE 5

Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat Andrea Bocelli at Smoothie

Pavilion of the Two Sisters Gal Holiday, Honky

The Broadside Caleb Caudle, The Sweet Critters

Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Susanne Ortner

Carousel Bar & Lounge Leslie Martin Trio

MUSIC CALENDAR

Modest Mouse at Orpheum Theater

Alternative rock pioneers Modest Mouse will bring their influential hits, including “Float On” and “Ocean Breathes Salty,” and beloved discography to the iconic Orpheum Theater for an unforgettable summer evening.

Tuesday, June 17, 8 p.m., $51.50 to $237.90, orpheumnola.net

Orpheum Theater Orchestra Noir

Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin

Southport Hall SiC TX, Lost In Hollywood

Tipitina’s DJ Soul Sister

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo

Big Couch New Orleans Jess Joy

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!

Celebration Hall Yung Dex Brass Band, Young

Fellaz Brass Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Fillmore Ice Nine Kills

French Market Charmaine Neiville, Johanna

Rose

Old Point Bar Jon Sheckler Organ Trio!

Santos Bar Sunshine Edae

The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

Tipitina’s Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band

Smoothie King Center Andrea Bocelli, Louisiana Philharmonic

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Gasa Gasa Othiel, Dremm

Hotel Monteleone James Martin

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Mikayla Braun

Santos Bar The Phantom A.D.

Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band

THURSDAY, JUNE 12

Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield’s Music Church

Dutch Alley Johnette Downing

House of Blues Young Nudy

New Orleans Jazz Museum Adonis Rose

Ogden Museum of Southern Art Rapuzzi’s Glo Worm Trio

Peacock Room Robin Barnes & Pat Casey

Salon Salon Tangiers Combo

Tipitina’s The Cat Empire

FRIDAY, JUNE 6

Bacchanal David Sigler

Blue Nile The Caesar Brothers, Kermit Ruffins

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Adam Rogers

Checkpoint Charlie’s Burning Shore

Crescent City Brewhouse

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Neicy B

Howlin Wolf Saint Social, Lydia Paul

Republic NOLA Layton Giordani

Saturn Bar La Tran-K

Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band

The Howlin Wolf Saint Social, Lydia Paul

Tipitina’s Good Enough For Good Times, Deltaphonic

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

Allways Lounge Angie Z

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

Bacchanal Amari Ansari

Blue Nile George Brown Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Niecy B.

MONDAY, JUNE 9

Bourbon Orleans Hotel Kid Merv, All That Jazz

Buffa’s David Doucet

Cafe Negril Keva Holiday

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Big 6 Brass Band

Fillmore New Orleans Ice Nine Kills

Joy Theater Peter Hook, The Light

Buffa’s Tom McDermott, Susanne Ortner Carousel Bar Leslie Martin Trio Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat Dog House Craig the Canine Crooner Dutch Alley Performance Space Johnette Downing Fillmore The Head And The Heart Le Bon Temps Roule The Soul Rebels

Orleans Jazz Museum Maxwell S.

Room Robin Barnes, Pat Casey

Salon Double Whisky

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

Bacchanal David Sigler

The Tchoup Yard Food Truck Funk

Tipitina’s Eric Johanson, Very Cherry

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band

Armstrong Park Inayak, Fly Boi Keno

Bacchanal Amari Ansari

Banks Street Bar Marsh Fire

Blue Nile George Brown Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Kayla Love, Lisa Amos

Gasa Gasa Agriculture, Slowhole

House of Blues Nirvanna

Roosevelt Hotel Leslie Martin

Santos Bar Berlin Taxi, Mere of Light

Sheraton Metairie Arsalan Rabbani

SUNDAY, JUNE 15

Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!

Celebration Hall Yung Dex Brass Band, Young Fellaz Brass Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Kayla Love

Joy Theater Lil Poppa

The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

MONDAY, JUNE 16

Buffa’s David Doucet

Crescent City

Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Big

6 Brass Band

NOLA Brewing & Pizza

Bluegrass Pickin’ Party

TUESDAY, JUNE 17

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Gasa Gasa twen, Mold!

No Dice Bear Hands, Ok Cowgirl

Republic NOLA Flux

Pavilion

Spotted Cat Paradise

Jazz Band

Tipitina’s Honey Island

Swamp Band, Sweet Magnolia

SATURDAY, JUNE 21

Apple Barrel bar Smoky Greenwell Band

Bacchanal Amari Ansari

Blue Nile George Brown Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dew Drop Inn Jesse McBride, Tidal Wave Brass Band

House of Blues Planet Perreo

Hyatt Centric Summer Songwriter Residency

McDonogh 35 Royal Diamond Divas

No Dice Swampgrave, Phallic LAceration

Republic NOLA Akeem Ali

Santos Bar Ronnie Stone, Lisbon Girls

Tipitina’s Perpetual Groove

SUNDAY, JUNE 22

Bacchanal Noah Young, Tangiers Combo

Bar Redux Take Off Your Folkin’ Clothes

Blue Nile Street Legends Brass Band

Stephen Marley at House of Blues

Stephen Marley, who is an eight-time Grammy Award winner and son of Bob Marley, will perform his signature reggae sound for a special Bob Marley 80th birthday performance at the House of Blues.

Thursday, June 26, 7 p.m., $45.30$256.65, houseofblues. com/neworleans

Orpheum Theater Modest Mouse

Royal Frenchmen Grayson Brockamp, The Wildlife

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Buffa’s Jow Krown Civic Theatre Coco Jones

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

House of Blues Lords of Acid

Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

Blue Nile Irvin Mayfield’s Music Church

Buffa’s Trad Jazz Camp Vocalists

Checkpoint Charlie’s Schrödinger’s Sex Kittens

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Dos Jefes Anna Laura Quinn

Dutch Alley Performance Space Johnette

Downing Pavilion of the Two Sisters Audrey LeCrone, The CrawZaddies

Peacock Room Robin Barnes & Pat Casey

Salon Salon Hanna Mignano

FRIDAY, JUNE 20

Bacchanal David Sigler

Blue Nile The Caesar Brothers’ FunkBox

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Adam Rogers, Tim Laughlin

Carrollton Station Mikayla, Kateri

Checkpoint Charlie’s Salven

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Deutsches Haus Ladies Choir, Men’s Choir

Dew Drop Inn Tidal Wave Brass Band

House of Blues Led Zeppelin 2

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys

Buffa’s Some Like it Hot!

Celebration Hall Yung Dex Brass Band, Young Fellaz Brass Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

The Broadside Johnny & The Mongrels

Crawfish Boil, Soirée

The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band

MONDAY, JUNE 23

Buffa’s David Doucet

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Da Jump Off Lounge Big 6 Brass Band

NOLA Brewing The Bluegrass Pickin’ Party

TUESDAY, JUNE 24

AllWays Lounge Kirk Duplantis Quartet

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Buffa’s Alex McMurray

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

House of Blues Thievery Corporation

Orpheum Theater Fridayy

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Mikayla

Braun

Royal Frenchmen Grayson Brockamp, The Wildlife

Salon Salon Or Shovaly Plus

Spotted Cat Smoking Time Jazz Club

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25

AllWays Lounge Kirk Duplantis Quartet

Blue Nile New Breed Brass Band

Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans

Streetbeat

Orpheum Theater Fridayy

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey Mikayla Braun

Spotted Cat Music Club Shotgun Jazz Band

LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE

NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

May 29 to June 7 | nationalww2museum.org/events/special-events

The National WWII Museum is marking its 25th anniversary of preserving World War II’s historical legacy with a large variety of events. From May 29 to June 7, visitors can immerse themselves in a comprehensive program featuring special exhibitions chronicling the museum’s evolution from a single D-Day exhibit to America’s premier WWII institution. Join distinguished guests, veterans, and historians for memorable presentations, ceremonies, and commemorative events that honor the Greatest Generation while showcasing the museum’s commitment to education and remembrance for future generations. Some events are free and open to the public, while others require tickets.

NEW ORLEANS PUBLIC

LIBRARY SUMMER OF FUN

June 1 to July 31 | nolalibrary.org/inthe-library/summer-fun

Take part in the magic of reading this summer at the New Orleans Public Library. Their annual Summer Fun program brings two months of enriching activities, engaging events, and rewarding reading challenges for the whole family. Track your progress, earn badges, and unlock special rewards as you read. From creative workshops and storytelling sessions to educational programs and special performances, there’s something for everyone at all 15 library locations. Pick up your reading tracker, join the reading challenge, and discover new adventures through books and community programs. Registration can be done at the library’s locations or through Beanstack’s website or app.

FRENCH MARKET CREOLE TOMATO FESTIVAL

June 7 & 8 | frenchmarket.org/creoletomatofest

Experience one of Louisiana’s most beloved culinary traditions at the 39th annual Creole Tomato Festival. This two-day celebration showcases the region’s famous Creole tomatoes, in addition to an array of engaging activities including live music performances at the French Market and Dutch Alley, cooking demonstrations from local chefs, and specialty food booths featuring creative tomato-inspired dishes. Festival highlights will include the lively Ripe & Ready Secondline, fresh tomatoes from local farmers, and the popular Bloody Mary Market. The festival also features family-friendly activities, arts and crafts vendors, and opportunities to learn about sustainable farming practices from local agricultural experts.

NEW ORLEANS WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE

June 11-15 | nowfe.com

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience will be celebrating its 33rd anniversary as one of the nation’s most prestigious food and drink festivals. This premier event showcases the best of New Orleans dining and spirits through wine dinners, grand tastings, seminars, and the Royal Street Stroll, bringing together worldclass chefs and wine experts while supporting local charities. The festival features exclusive experiences such as the Vinola VIP tastings, the Tournament of Rosés, and the grand finale Burlesque, Bubbly, & Brunch at the Omni Royal Orleans. Food lovers can also participate in BBQ masterclasses and a food truck event.

NEW ORLEANS PRIDE

June 14 | neworleanspride.org

Experience New Orleans Pride with vibrant LGBTQ+ celebrations throughout the city. The festivities include the signature Pride parade winding through the historic French Quarter on June 14 at 5 p.m., which will end on the corner of Dumaine and Rampart. From Community Fest in Armstrong Park to PrideFest at Phoenix Bar, there’s something for everyone. Join diverse performances and community gatherings that promote equality and inclusivity. The parade welcomes all walkers with a $15 registration donation to support event costs. Community Fest will run from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. while PrideFest will be from 5 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.

SUMMER SLOWDOWN

Travel Ideas During NOLA’s Summer Down Time Travel Ideas During NOLA’s Summer Down Time

By Joel Mandina

While New Orleans is fondly known as “The

Big Easy,” anyone truly in the know will tell you that it “ain’t dat easy.”

Between the festivals and feasts in spring and fall lies the “summer famine,” where visitor rates fall, restaurants shutter to renovate, and people tend to seek more hospitable climates. From easy-to-reach markets on the Gulf Coast and in Texas to longer journeys on both coasts and abroad, the summer slowdown is the perfect excuse to “get out of Dodge.”

DRIVE TIME = PRIME TIME

Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida are Louisiana’s fellow Gulf Coasters, with the US Census Bureau estimating about 15.8 million people populating the Gulf Coast Region. Naturally, with America itself being a geographically large nation, its citizens historically enjoy road trips, bringing to mind some common memories for us all.

Some sound advice about Gulf Coast sojourns: always wake up early, get the car gassed and packed the night before, and stop for breakfast at a place such as Waffle House, Cracker Barrel, or McDonald’s.

At this juncture, our travelers must firmly commit to their destination. Whether Biloxi in Mississippi, Gulf Shores in Alabama, or Destin in Florida, each location bears a special place in the hearts and minds of Southerners.

“Upon arrival, we check in before promptly going to the grocery for snacks and sandwich materials to be had on the beach before heading to the seafood market for our dinners of lobsters, shrimps, oysters, etc.” Amber Babin, a local attorney and avid “roadtripper” with her husband and two children, said.

Biloxi saw an impressive post-Katrina jump due to its courting of land based casinos, including the MGM-owned Beau Rivage, as well as the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (located at 777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS), which has its own, now-tragic connection to the city of New Orleans. Other travelers are fans of the Biloxi Aquarium, while the highlight of some trips is meandering across the street to Mary MaHoney’s, located at 111 Rue Magnolia directly across from the Beaux Rivage (875 Beach Rd., Biloxi, MS).

“ARUBA, JAMAICA, OOH I WANNA TAKE YOU”

Destinations within the Caribbean are getting more and more accessible from NOLA with MSY expanding its international offerings to places such as Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Aruba.

Aruba, a Dutch constituent country, also has some New Orleans connections as a popular New Orleans bar called Lucy’s Retired Surfers’ Bar & Restaurant (701 Tchoupitoulas St.) has a sister location on the island, located at L.G. Smith Blvd. 82, Oranjestad, Aruba. Christina Derenthal-Salicco, a film executive out of Los Angeles, said, “There is no pun intended, but Lucy’s Aruba really rolled out the red carpet. It was a real mixture of Caribbean beach life with Southern Hospitality.”

Aruba also partnered with Travel + Leisure for a campaign for “The Best Job in the World” as an Aruba-based weatherperson due to the island’s near 300 days per year sunshine and consistent temperature.

Another island that’s becoming a fanfavorite is the Franco-Dutch, bilingual Saint Martin. Its two-in-one combination of two of Western Europe’s primary destinations, synthesized with Caribbean beach culture, makes for both a convenient and a multicultural designation.

Add in the famed “jet blast” where beach-goers are, literally, blown into the waters from the airport (SXM) as jets depart from the island’s notoriously short runway, and the entire experience is ready for bar tales, memories, and, of course, Instagram reels.

HOMEGROWN HOSPITALITY

“Home is where the heart is” is one concept New Orleanians are known to appreciate.

Frequently appearing on the “must-do” list as dayadventures from NOLA are the city of Lafayette and Plantation Row. Lafayette, best known as the capital of Cajun Country, supports a number of world-famous festivals for music, cuisine, and culture, especially Festival International de Louisiane. For historical plantations, there are a lot of opportunities, including Oak Alley, Whitney, Destrehan, Houmas, and the famed Myrtles Plantation.

TEX-ANA

Obviously, Texas has more land, money, and power players than its smaller neighbor Louisiana, but we both play in the Majors. There is plenty to do. For example, last year, some spent two weeks bouncing around Texas using luxury bus line Vonlane. Within two weeks, there was a solar eclipse in full totality, a Madonna concert, a soccer game in Austin’s brand new stadium, and a baseball game.

“LET’S GET DIGITAL, DIGITAL” From the open borders of the EU to America’s—in particular the Gulf Coast’s—rapidly developing Houston to Miami digital, travel planning through various apps is a necessity.

One travel professional said, “I outline my route using Rome2Rio to decide my travel method and overlay that with my usual booking apps (Expedia, Travelocity, etc.) for travel. I try to book directly with the hotel itself because it’s easier to make changes directly or even to see if they have partners in other markets to book multiple destinations.” Download each app to your phone or tablet and sign up for updates to your reservations to really be on top of your game.

When asked about some Northern attitudes about Southern travel and their own day trips, Lisa Bell, a travel and tourism PR executive and former representative of the Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (Massachusetts is also known for its proximity to a variety of climates and entertainment), said, “I love New Orleans as my weekend trip. Though, I’ll let y’all keep the heat and hurricanes, but I always enjoy a good drive-thru daiquiri shop.”

NOLA’s reputation, as usual, proceeds itself.

ROBERT

Two legacies of excellence.

One brighter future for our kids.

Children’s Hospital New Orleans – the only comprehensive children’s hospital in the Gulf South – is celebrating a new chapter and name as Manning Family Children’s. Together, we’re charting a bold new future for child health fueled by two steadfast Louisiana legacies. manningchildrens.org

Tracy Lawrence

Shorts in December • Them Ol’ Ghosts

Ryan Foret & Foret Tradition • Dwayne Dopsie

Clay Cormier • Junior Lacrosse Band

Aaron Foret Band • Waylon Thibodaux

Todd O’Neill • JP Bourgeios Band

Louisana Landfall • After Party

By Emily Hingle

Though it’s not as prevalent as it was perhaps 50 years ago, the New Orleans accent is distinct from the rest of the South and is more closely related to the historical accents of other port cities, especially New York. Many people with a strong Yat accent have been asked at some point if they’re from Brooklyn, for example.

The banks of the Mississippi River were home to Native Americans for tens of thousands of years. The Chitimacha Tribe and sub-tribes most notably inhabited what is now New Orleans, and they were slowly forced out of the area beginning when Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle claimed the region for the French crown in 1682, which ended with a devastating war and spreading of diseases from French colonists between 1706 and 1718. New Orleans was officially founded by Jean Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville in 1718, then ceded to Spain in 1723. It was returned to France in 1800 before Napoleon made the Louisiana Purchase on December 20, 1803. The historic deal saw 828,000 square miles of land sold to the United States. French was the predominant language spoken, written, and printed in the 1800s despite becoming an official American city.

Due in part to the Port of New Orleans, large waves of immigrants settled here. The Haitian Revolution that ended in 1804 and Ireland’s Potato Blight from 1845 to 1852 were two events that notably increased the city’s population. English-speaking Americans started taking up residence on the western side of the city. Germans, Sicilians, Chinese, Filipinos, and Ashkenazi Jews also found their way here in the 1800s and early 1900s.

The American Civil War in the 1860s ushered in the use of English by more New Orleanians, and it was the dominant spoken and printed language by the 1920s. L’Abeille de la Nouvelle-Orléans, a mostly French-language newspaper also known as The New Orleans Bee, ceased operations on December 27, 1923, after 96 years of publication.

“New Orleans was the second leading port of entry in the United States during the antebellum period. Between 1820 and 1860, over 550,000 immigrants came through New Orleans, although the Crescent City lagged far behind its top competitor, New York City,” according to Louisiana’s Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism.

There is another link between New York and New Orleans besides immigration— commerce. Both cities had booming ports, which also fostered prosperous trade and financial systems. The Foreign Trade Zones Act of 1934 was passed in order to encourage foreign commerce. The city of New York received the first Foreign Trade Zone designation on January 30, 1936, and the Port of New Orleans received the second on July 16, 1946.

The late linguistics researcher William Labov wrote in his 2007 University of Pennsylvania research paper “Language: Transmission and Diffusion” that the “history

'LINS ENT? WHAT IS A 'LINS ENT? WHAT IS A

of New Orleans points to repeated and extensive connections with New York City.” He continued, “The city of New Orleans had intimate and complementary relations [with New York], as the port of shipment for the cotton trade financed by New York bankers. We find many descriptions of commercial and social relations between New Orleans and New York in the five-volume history of The Older Merchants of New York City by John Scoville (1885); the typical pattern involves movement of New Yorkers to New Orleans.”

Professor Labov found a strong link between Jewish bankers and merchants in New York and New Orleans going back centuries. “We can see how intimate the relations were between the Jewish population of the two cities by examining [Bertram Wallace] Korn’s history ‘The Early Jews of New Orleans,’ which deals with social and business relations from 1718 to 1812. References to New York City are found on 55 pages, more than any other city.”

Professor Labov received a letter in regard to his research of this link. Mr. Herman S. Kohlmeyer of A.G. Edwards Investment Firm wrote to him, “I am the great-grandson of some of our top cotton merchants. They were all German Jewish immigrants who came over in the 1830-1860 era. I remember very well friends of my father’s generation who talked about how hard they ‘woiked’ before they went home to their house on ‘Foist’ Street. That was very much our upper class speech, as much with the Christians and with the Jews.”

Notable features of the New Orleans accent that can be heard in the New York accent include the use of non-rhotic words. The accents drop Rs so that “the Quarter” might sound more like “the Quorta,” “Ward” sounds like “Wahd,” and Mardi Gras may sound like “Mawdi Gras.”

Professor Labov cited musician Dr. John as an example of the sharper A sound in words such as “fancy” and “answer,” writing, “As further evidence of the weakness of the open syllable constraint in New Orleans, one may consider the speech of Dr. John (Mac Rebennack), a prominent representative of New Orleans musical tradition who grew up in the Third Ward of the city at mid-century. In a broadcast of March 16, 2005, Dr. John showed the pattern of tense and lax short-a. Dr. John’s tensing pattern includes nasals, voiced stops and voiceless fricatives, as in New York City, but open syllable words are treated in the same way as closed syllables.”

The Yat accent, though, seems to be disappearing, and, soon, there will come a day when that New Orleans accent can only be heard in audio recordings and videos of people no longer with us. As local musician Benny Grunch would say, it “ain’t dere no more.”

GUIDE FOR AT-HOME SUMMER CAMP

(or Making the Most of Summer Break)

By Michelle Nicholson

Summertime is the perfect time to connect with the kids—and reconnect with our younger selves—while making memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you have the entire summer to fill your days with fun and inspiring activities or you only have a few weeks of homework-free evenings to enjoy, it’s easy to orchestrate an epic at-home summer camp experience for the family (and their friends).

SO MANY CHOICES

There are lots of categories of activities and experiences to consider including in your summer camp. In general, you will want a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, individual and interactive activities, and exploratory and creative activities. You will also want to include quiet or restful activities, as well as activities to get the blood pumping.

If your family loves the great outdoors or arts and crafts, you may want to center your activities around those interests. Summer camp is a great opportunity to reinforce and grow the passions your kids already have, but it is also prime time to spark new areas of interest. An inclusive approach integrates many domains of play and study. Collect supplies and set aside time for STEM and science; arts and crafts; music, theater, and literature; self-care, exercise; and games.

THE NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM

opened in New Orleans on June 6, 2000

Scan QR code to purchase tickets

as a single exhibition hall dedicated to telling the stories of the everyday Americans who participated in the greatest amphibious invasion in history. Now, 25 transformational years later,

THE NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM

explores and honors the entire American experience in World War II— why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—reaching audiences both on its seven-pavilion campus and around the world.

KNOW THYSELF (AND THE KIDS)

The best plan for summer camp at home is to have a plan—one that works for you and yours. If you like to keep things loose and super-flexy, then you might choose to create a daily schedule. This can be as open as a simple checklist. Be sure to start with daily start-up tasks such as brushing teeth and hair, making beds, and eating breakfast. Then, add your top priorities, such as 20 to 30 minutes each of music, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and “brain play” including math puzzles and creative writing.

Maybe you prefer a more structured day? You might include blocks of time designated for particular types of activities each day. Try chunking the day by meals and snacks and designating time for certain activities during each part of the day.

For example, you could set aside 8:00 to 11:00 in the morning for breakfast, outdoor or active play, and arts and crafts; 12:00 to 3:00 in the afternoon for lunch, STEM activities, and brain play; 3:00 to 5:00 for snacks, reading or rest, and music, followed by more outdoor or other active play; 5:00 to 8:00 in the evening for dinner, screentime or free time, and interactive group games and activities.

Keep in mind that for older children, you can allot more time for each activity— perhaps as much as an hour—but very young children need more time for rest and free play, and their structured activities should last for no longer than 20 to 30 minutes. While younger children may

need all of their activities to be chosen for them, older children may choose their activities from a bucket list. Their activities could also be randomly selected—simply write activities on slips and add them to categorized and labeled jars.

A GRAND VISION

Many like to choose themes for each week. This is the perfect opportunity to include what you know the kids in your life love. Choose a favorite cartoon, film, or book series. Choose a favorite sport, hobby, or topic such as space, dinosaurs, mythical creatures, and superheroes. Any obsession or curiosity can become a theme. Each week’s theme could lead to a related culminating event: a talent show or field

day, a trip to the beach or a park, or a visit to a museum or garden. Camping, water parks, theater, and “fine dining” at home count, too.

Rather than weekly themes, some folks like to establish themes for each day of the week, sometimes following a regular cycle. Think: Musical Mondays, Tasty Tuesdays, Wise Wednesdays, Thankful Thursdays, and Field Trip Fridays. This option is a great choice whether you want to plan for one big activity each day or for exploring and having fun applying the theme in creative contexts in many ways over the course of each day. You can also apply weekly themes to your daily themes if having a routine makes the process even easier for you.

GET READY FOR A SUMMER FULL OF FUN

A crucial part of planning is to determine what supplies you need and can access. Sure, having a pool is sweet, but you’ll find there are tons of affordable, or free, options in every category: themed coloring sheets, word searches, and homemade Mad Libs; jumping rope and hula hooping; scavenger hunts, relay races, and obstacle courses; sidewalk chalk drawings and tie-dying; planting kidney beans and making salt crystals; baking cookies and making spaghetti necklaces; Lego construction sprints; and living room fort building. The list goes on.

When it comes to self-care and physical activity, perhaps you and the kids in your group are down for yoga and even meditation—teachers suggest using apps such as Headspace—but don’t underestimate the benefits of old-school moves, including jumping jacks and floor stretches. The important point is to enjoy summer, so don’t forget to just have free time and fun.

Take a hike around the neighborhood. Make friendship bracelets. Have a danceoff. Play charades or take a stab at improv. Pull out the board games or add some newbies to the collection. Create an escape room. Make a family time capsule. Act like a kid again and play under the sprinkler. At-home summer camp as a grown up means the world is in your hands, and the choices are all yours.

Behind the Scenes of Louisiana’s Extra Casting Industry

CRESCENT CITY CASTING

Often dubbed “Hollywood South,” Louisiana has emerged as a top destination for motion picture productions. By Lillian Foster

Louisiana’s film industry workforce, which grew by more than 400 percent since 2002, has contributed to the production of over 700 movies, television series, and documentaries. As actors look to get on set, veterans in the industry are eager to give advice to emerging talent.

“It’s a natural progression to be able to elevate new actors to a different level and give them a shot at their dreams of speaking on camera. After doing this for so long, I’ve found myself being able to nurture young talent and foster a community of actors that are up and coming,” Ryan Glorioso, founder of Glorioso Casting, said.

After Hurricane Katrina, Glorioso moved to Shreveport and worked alongside Elizabeth Coulon, founder of Coulon Casting, before starting Glorioso Casting in 2007. Glorioso worked in casting for both background and local actors as he began his career as a casting agent. Today, his main focus is on casting local actors.

“As film workers, we had to recognize that we were doing two jobs. Now, we get to separate it a little bit and have two different departments,” Glorioso said. “[Casting background] is a whole other beast. I really do enjoy being able to create the bigger picture that’s involved, and when those opportunities come up, I am definitely willing [to do it].”

Glorioso noted that being on set as a background actor can open the door for a multitude of other opportunities. “Some people end up becoming actors and some of them remain as extras. Others find that they have a passion for working in different departments and end up in the assistant director’s department or in hair and makeup. Background

roles can present opportunities for you to meet people on set who can help you get to other departments that you might be interested in,” Glorioso mentioned.

Glorioso recommended that any person looking to be a background actor on set should create an account on mycastingfile.com. When casting background, casting directors are mainly looking at photos to determine if the actor is the right fit for the role. “Typically, it’s from your photos, which is the reason why your photos should always be current,” Glorioso pointed out. “If you change your look, cut your hair, dye your hair, get a tattoo on your face— whatever—you should be updating your look.”

According to Glorioso, Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) rates on commercials can make being a background actor much more profitable. “I tell all my actors in town that if they’re not going to be a principal role in the commercial, to do background work on it. It pays about $500 for eight hours and you could be there for at least 12 hours, so background actors can make a lot of money in one day,” Glorioso said.

SAG-AFTRA formed in 2012 after the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio merged, both working towards the common goals of securing labor protections for media artists. In Louisiana, the SAG-AFTRA contract does not cover background actors statewide, but production companies can hire up to 45 union background actors within a 100-mile radius of New Orleans.

Depending on the production, union actors are entitled to a scale daily rate of $1,158 for speaking roles and a five-

Ryan Glorioso

Bill Rainey in Paradise

day scale weekly rate of $4,019, accompanied by overtime pay, residuals, health and pension benefits, and workplace protections. Non-union actors are not guaranteed a fixed pay for background work or speaking roles.

The quickest way to join SAG-AFTRA is by booking a speaking role, although there are other pathways to membership. Members are required to pay a one-time initiation fee, as well as annual dues.

Casting companies generally have a list of go-to background actors that they know are reliable, but they are always searching for new talent. “They always need fresh faces. We’re always looking for new people. You don’t want to see the same people over and over in every movie that’s made in New Orleans—right?” Glorioso said.

During COVID-19, when local actor Dylan Jones couldn’t work as a bartender, he started applying for background work through Central Casting, a national background casting company.

Since then, Jones has been a background actor on five sets, including the Netflix series The Corps, where he did extensive stunt work from March to July 2023. “We would do obstacle courses. It’s like doing the same stunt or obstacle course about 17 times until that same take is done. You still do the same thing every time without messing up or trying to change anything, because if you change it, then you have to go through the whole process again,” Jones said.

Bill Rainey began working as a background actor in films across the South after retiring from Cox Communications in 2009. Since then, Rainey has garnered 231 credits, including from television series, commercials, and movies.

Though Rainey could have pursued speaking roles, he decided that he preferred to act in background roles. “I didn’t want to have to memorize anything. Plus, it gave me the opportunity to submit. I basically submitted and volunteered for everything possible because, when you start this business, you have to work for free a lot of the time,” Rainey said.

Background actors, as Rainey recounted, should always expect to work for at least 12 hours. “You might go there and work one hour, or you might work 18. That’s the biggest thing. Be prepared for that,” Rainey said.

After gaining extensive work as a background actor, Rainey founded The Holding Tent in 2011, a free resource for finding low-budget actors in Louisiana, southern Alabama, and southern Mississippi. Since then, Rainey has amassed over 20,000 members.

According to Rainey, background actors who are struggling to get cast should remain resilient. “There’s probably thousands of people trying to get background work in the New Orleans area. You’re competing against that, so following instructions and being pleasant to deal with [is important],” Rainey said.

Bill Rainey at SAG-AFTRA Awards

Rainey as a passenger in This is the End

Rainey as a judge in Pitch Perfect

Over

Featuring a tall, pink facade with stepped ziggurat motifs typical of the Art Deco style, as well as a bright red and yellow marquee, the small neighborhood theater first opened its doors in 1927. While hundreds of these little theaters opened up across the state, the Ashton was unique in that it was designed by Ferdinand L. Rousseve, Louisiana’s first licensed African American architect.

Born in the Seventh Ward to Barthelemy Abel and Valentine R. (Mansion) Rousseve in 1904, Ferdinand’s life was one filled with civil, academic, and pedagogic pursuit. Among numerous accomplishments after graduating from the Preparatory Department at Xavier University, Rousseve received a diploma in Mechanical Drawing and Elementary Machine Design from the Coyne Trade and Engineering School in Chicago, won a scholarship to MIT and ended up attaining a BA in Architecture, and was the first person to complete a PhD in only four years at Harvard University.

Although he spent many years teaching, both at Harvard University in Washington, D.C., and as associate professor and head

The Ashton

Congregational Church on Bienville Street in the Tremé, the Dr. Joseph Epps’ residence on Annette Street in Gentilly, and, of course, the Ashton Theater in Hollygrove.

A little over 5,000 square feet with a balcony, the single-screen cinema was owned and operated by the Fonseca family. The Ashton Theater served the Hollygrove neighborhood for close to 30 years, showing films such as Citizen Kane and The Invisible Boy, until it finally closed in 1958.

No one bit when the building was put on the market, though the contents of the theater—including a Reproduco pipe organ with a roll frame (virtually identical to those used in Coinola coin pianos), which plays a multi-tune music roll—were later sold through an auction. The Ashton sat empty for nearly a decade until the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra purchased the old theater to use as its rehearsal hall after their former space, the St. Charles Theater, was demolished.

In 1989, local visual artist and sculptor Lin Emery purchased the Ashton and used the space to construct the massive,

NOLA Theater

By Kim Ranjbar

in the Hollygrove neighborhood on Apple Street. As we’d only ever visited the Hollygrove Farmers Market, we wanted to get a feel for the neighborhood, so we walked around a little and, after only one block, stumbled upon the Ashton Theater.

created large-scale public artworks activated by water, wind, magnets, and motors. One of her pieces, titled Wave and is a polished aluminum kinetic sculpture poised above a reflective pool, long held a spot in front of the New Orleans Museum of Art. It now resides in the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden in New Orleans City Park.

When Emery passed away in 2021, her son Brooks Braselman, who took over ownership of the Ashton, put the officially designated historical landmark (New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission) up for sale with hopes that its new owner would keep the building’s legacy going and use the space for creative endeavors.

In the summer of 2023, local entrepreneur Janice Meredith purchased the nearly centuryold theater, which she distinctly remembered from her childhood as she grew up near the Hollygrove neighborhood. Her intention was to use the Ashton in part as a manufacturing and retail space for her business selling patches and embroidered clothing, while also leaving the rest to serve as a co-working/retail space for other creative entrepreneurs.

In a NOLA.com article, Meredith said other artists would be able to book the extra space through an app called EntrepreNOLA, turning it into a “true community asset for residents in the neighborhood.” She also had planned to invest $400,000 to update the HVAC system and make the structure ADA compliant. As far as can be gleaned, none of her plans for a co-working space have yet come to fruition, but, as is often said, good things come to those who wait.

As mentioned earlier in this piece, my boyfriend and I were originally looking at a house in that Hollygrove neighborhood. At that time, the Louisiana Housing Commission was offering a Soft Second program, a home-buying assistance loan that would pay up to $85,000 then. After 10 years of residency, the loan would be forgiven. A first-time home buying class and mountains of paperwork later, we suddenly found ourselves in a rush to choose a house before the program ended.

The house we looked at, originally a 500 square foot shotgun, had an addition built out front, a long living room/dining room that stepped up to a modern kitchen with dark hardwood floors throughout. The house also had a big backyard with two mature oaks and a stone brick patio.

It’s funny—the house we never ended up buying on Apple Street is not often thought about anymore. More often, my mind wanders back to the daringly-Deco Ashton Theater, pondering its potential role in Hollygrove’s future.

COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH

The Hurricane—as created by Pat O’Brien's

By Tim McNally

It would not be reasonable to expect that a favorite cocktail of New Orleans would have any more of a straightforward tale than the twisted history traveled by the city that gave birth to it.

In New Orleans, references to compass points have to be abandoned, the sun rises over the Westbank, the topography is defined by man-made Monkey Hill—at 30-ft. above sea level, it’s not the tallest dirt point in town, it’s but close—and North America’s mightiest river twists and turns within the city’s political limits. It is only logical that a cocktail made famous here would have an interesting backstory.

Pat O’Brien, a saloon owner of some repute, was actually proprietor and bartender of an illegal establishment, Mr. O’Brien’s Club Tipperary, established near the corner of Royal Street and St. Peter in early 1930. The illegality of the spot was due to the fact that Prohibition was in full effect in America and service of any alcohol was banned. In New Orleans, we actually considered federal law, namely the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, to be a suggestion. Not adhering to the strict statement of the law was not necessarily a grievous legal offense.

Mr. O’Brien’s establishment, like all speakeasies, required a spoken password in order to enter through a locked door. The current story is that the password was “storm’s a-brewin’” or “storm’s brewin’.” Those may have been passwords, but, by necessity, passwords changed frequently to keep U.S. revenue agents and unwelcome guests on the outside. The “storm’s a-brewin” legend was actually begun by a reporter from the New York Times several years after Prohibition ended because he thought it made for better copy in an assigned story requested by his editor.

O’Brien picked up his illegal products from a multitude of places, including from New Orleans neighbors who made alternative use of their bathtubs. When quantity was needed, O’Brien would drive to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, meet a booze-laden boat on the beach, load up his car, and drive back to his club on St. Peter through the Rigolets along the coast and under cover of darkness.

Even when Prohibition was repealed with the 21st Amendment in December 1933, O’Brien proved his rebelliousness to the end by opening his Club Tipperary to the public during the last two days of Prohibition. He was confident that no revenue agent was going to affect an outgoing law when, all along, they had not enforced the law when it was in full force. O’Brien’s business at the club was very good. It was so good, in fact, that O’Brien and his partner Charley Cantrell were encouraged to look for a larger venue. They did not have to look very far. Literally in the next block, the 700 block of St. Peter, was a large available space. The partners signed a lease deal and proceeded with sprucing the place up, which included a large patio that was perfect for enjoying cocktails. The partners renamed Club Tipperary to Pat O’Brien’s in late 1933 and moved to 718 St. Peter in 1942 to a building constructed in 1791, the current home of the bar.

The years between Prohibition and the outbreak of the World Wars were not easy for bar owners. Product for a variety of reasons was in short supply. In particular, there was a shortage of spirits. Whisky, scotch, and liqueurs were almost impossible to purchase, and when purchases were made, pricing was not favorable.

The companies that sold such spirits placed limits on how much product customers could buy. Also, when a customer was good enough to earn the right to buy brown spirits, other products had to be purchased alongside. O’Brien convinced Cantrell that this system could still work to their advantage.

One of the alcohol items of which there was no limit was rum. Manufactured relatively near New Orleans and with low prices, O’Brien turned the advantage back towards himself and Cantrell. Sometime in the early 1940s, O’Brien invented a cocktail composed of light and dark rum, vodka, gin, passion fruit, grenadine, and simple syrup—a sugar rush, indeed. Now, they had to name the cocktail, and O’Brien suggested “Hurricane;” however, there already was a cocktail named that. O’Brien had a brainstorm to top all brainstorms. He suggested to his partner that they create specialty glassware in the shape of hurricane lamps well-known to New Orleanians. Then, the partners said that the glassware would be available for customers to purchase on the spot—souvenirs, if you will. Patrons could be “sales ambassadors” for Pat O’Brien’s, taking the bar’s story to the streets or back home to be placed in a cherished spot, all the while alleviating the need for the bar to wash the glass. It was pure genius.

1. Slice an orange in half and place the flat side down on a cutting board. Slice it into quarter-inch thick half-moons, one for each drink.

2. Fill each Hurricane glass, or the tallest glass you have, about halfway with ice to chill.

3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the rum, passion fruit juice, lime juice, orange juice, and grenadine to the shaker.

4. Shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds or until the shaker is frosty on the outside.

5. Strain the mixture into a Hurricane glass filled with fresh ice.

6. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry for that final tropical touch.

Bar Guide

Boot Scootin’ Rodeo

522 Bourbon St. 504-552-2510

Bourbon “O” Bar

730 Bourbon St.

504-523-2222

Bourbon Street Honky Tonk

727 Bourbon St.

504-523-1927

Fillmore

6 Canal St.

504-881-1555

Ghost Bar

606 Iberville St.

504-910-2010

Headquarters by Nice Guys

445 S. Rampart St.

504-217-6851

High Grace NOLA

733 St. Peter St.

504-218-5649

House of Blues

225 Decatur St.

504-310-4999

Lots a Luck Tavern

203 Homedale St.

504-483-0978

Martine’s Lounge

2347 Metairie Rd., Metairie

504-831-8637

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

Saddle Bar 715 Bienville St. 504-313-1113

Sazerac House 101 Magazine St. 504-910-0100

Swamp Room

5400 Veterans Blvd., Metairie

504-888-5254

The Blackbird Hotel 1612 Prytania St. 504-383-7500

Featuring a full bar, a mechanical bull, and Americana decor, this novelty bar is no joke. Wear your cowboy hat and order the Cowboy Punch, their signature 27 oz. drink.

Bourbon “O” Bar is a break from Bourbon Street. Experience live music while enjoying one of their specialty cocktails including the French Quarter Float or the Leave of Absinthe.

Owned by Tropical Isle, the originators of the (in)famous Hand Grenade drink, this bar specializes in live blues and country performers while serving the Hand Grenade drink you love.

The Fillmore is on the second floor of Caesars New Orleans Hotel & Casino and hosts big and small named musical artists, as well as full-service private productions with custom drink menus and mixologists.

A fun spin on usual bar fare, this “spooky” spot offers plenty of themed cocktails, is open until very early in the morning, and offers plenty of delicious food options including pizza.

Headquarters is a sister establishment of Nice Guys Nola. This trendy spot has DJ nights, wine, beer, and specialty drinks, including a Blueberry Drop Martini.

This elevated cocktail lounge and restaurant offers contemporary Creole cuisine alongside expertly crafted drinks. High Grace features plush seating and mood lighting, perfect for enjoying their signature cocktails and seasonal small plates.

The House of Blues can be enjoyed as both a restaurant and a music venue. Order one of their specialty cocktails including the Beast of Bourbon and Strawberry Fields.

The Boondock Saint 731 St. Peter St. 504-525-4950

The Channel 2604 Magazine St. 504-381-4680

The Jazz Playhouse 300 Bourbon St.

504-553-2299

The Jimani 141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493

The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd.

504-568-1702

The Vintage 3121 Magazine St.

504-324-7144

Tropical Isle Multiple Locations

504-523-1927

Lots a Luck Tavern is a true laid-back, locals bar. Go by yourself to catch a game with some fellow fans or bring a group to enjoy affordable drinks and a game of pool.

Martine’s Lounge is a classic neighborhood bar with darts, video poker, and happy hour every day. Wednesdays are for trivia, and order a cocktail from one of their daily specialty cocktails.

Pal’s Lounge is a great hangout spot with creative specialty cocktails, beers, and shots. Order their Honey Lavender Rose Sangria or their “House Salad” drink.

Parasol’s is a neighborhood bar with a selection of NOLA eats, including the best roast beef po-boy in town. Stop by and enjoy their cold, refreshing drinks.

Rick’s Cabaret is one of New Orleans’ finest gentlemen’s clubs. With two floors of entertainment, three bars, and a friendly staff, you can’t go wrong.

The only place in New Orleans where you can find a mechanical, rideable rooster, saddle up to Saddle Bar and order one of their Western-inspired cocktails, including the Ranch Water.

Sazerac House is a distillery and museum honoring the legacy of one of New Orleans’ most famous cocktails—the Sazerac. Guests can experience a special tasting area.

Home of the famous 10 oz. Swamp Burger and many more hearty options including steak and wings, the Swamp Room is a perfect spot to dine, drink, and watch the big game while in Metairie.

The Blackbird Hotel boasts a dramatic interior, including a full-service bar that locals and visitors adore. Their vast drink menu serves draft beer, fine wine, and unique cocktails.

The Boondock Saint is an Irish pub that is all about cool drinks and good times. The bar, located in the heart of the French Quarter, has plenty of beer and other drinks to choose from.

The Channel is a cozy, Irish pub that serves craft beer, wine, and delicious eats—including a decadent cheeseburger. Their New Orleans-style bar food menu and refreshing drinks make it a great place to watch the big game.

The Jazz Playhouse is located in the lobby of Royal Sonesta. Enjoy some local jazz music while ordering a jazz-inspired signature drink, including Ella Fitzgerald’s Pearflower Martini.

Family-owned and opened in 1971, the Jimani has an impressive food menu, over 100 beers, and a door that stays open until 4 a.m. They even have jello shots.

The Metro is a top-notch nightclub with three rooms featuring smoke machines and lighting effects. With 11 bar stations, it’s the ideal place to party all night and enjoy plenty of drinks.

The Vintage is a chic café with coffee, pastries, cocktails, wine, and more. Order their beignets and one of their crafted cocktails, including the Espresso Yourself and Tia’s Can Can.

Home of the Hand Grenade, a drink synonymous with Bourbon Street, Tropical Isle has multiple locations across Bourbon Street. They also have other iconic drinks including the Tropical Itch.

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FILM REVIEWS

Shadow Force

By David Vicari & Fritz Esker

convoluted and generally idiotic spy thriller directed and co-written by hack filmmaker Joe Carnahan (Narc, Smokin’ Aces).

The title Shadow Force sounds like one of those cheap, generic direct-to-streaming releases or, if you remember the ‘90s, the direct-to-video titles that collected dust on the video store shelves. Shadow Force does have a better budget than those direct-to-whatever films, but it is just as forgettable.

Assassins Kyrah (Kerry Washington) and Isaac (Omar Sy) fall in love and have a kid. Because they broke the rules, their former employer (Mark Strong) has put a bounty on their heads. So it’s love on the run in this somewhat

The performances are fine. Washington and Sy have good chemistry, and Strong plays a villain once again, and he’s not phoning it in; however, it’s Jahleel Kamara as the couple’s young son, Ky, who steals the movie. He’s definitely a young actor to look out for.

Some aspects that make the movie go awry are the plot contrivances, like Kyrah going to the villain’s lair to chat, but it’s just so she can be captured. She is on the run with her family from these professional killers, so why would she decide to meet with them?

Another area of the movie that sucks is the wonky editing. There is one action car chase set on a foggy road, which is a neat idea, but the execution is routine. At the end of

the chase, the car carrying Kyrah, Isaac, and Ky flips and crashes. We then see the bad assassins descend a hill and watch the car sink into a lake. The film then cuts to Kyrah and her family safely hiding in some bushes. When did they escape from the car? It really felt like a scene was missing. Shadow Force probably could have been a good movie in the hands of better filmmakers.

—David Vicari

Hurry Up Tomorrow

Canadian singer The Weeknd co-wrote and stars in Hurry Up Tomorrow, a film that is a companion piece to his recent album of the same name. It’s a mess.

In director Trey Edward Shults’ film, The Weeknd plays a fictionalized version of himself—with the same name—on the edge of a nervous breakdown while on tour. His voice is giving out, and he’s being weepy and having self-pity about a recent breakup. The movie makes it clear that he is not blameless in that affair and that it’s part of a pattern.

After flaking out at a concert, The Weeknd forges a brief connection with Anima (Jenna Ortega), a young woman we first see setting fire to a house. They seem to bond at first over their mutual brokenness, but things quickly take a darker turn.

On the positive side, Shults does create some striking visuals—anyone with any sensitivity to flashing lights should stay far away, though; however, the story is shapeless and hollow. Both leads are too whiny, self-indulgent, and hurtful to others to garner much sympathy or interest. The movie also doesn’t seem sure of what it wants to be. The final 40 minutes sharply veer into thriller territory. Whether it’s trying for character study, romantic drama, or horror/thriller, Hurry Up Tomorrow never entices the audience to become involved.

It’s likely that only hardcore fans of The Weeknd will have any interest in this. —Fritz Esker

AMY RUSSO LBJ

CARRIGAN CHAUVIN

‘‘Good Food at Good Prices” – SINCE 19461751 St. Charles Avenue [504] 525-9131

PleaseuNOLA.com

TALES FROM THE QUARTER

By Debbie Lindsey

DEADLINE: JUNE 18 | STREET DATE: JUNE 28

Good Company

Anyone who’s connected to cats knows that the relationships are on the cat’s terms. Any cat will tell you that. They will also let a person know that said person is damn lucky to have the “honor” of a cat’s company. Nothing delights me more than having a cat curl up next to me on my pillow at night. Is this affection or intimidation? Something about them having teeth and claws is enough of a reminder that they can kill us in our sleep. Those cats that acquiesce to nail trims, topical flea prevention drops, or grooming have yet to be “schooled” by another cat. Once a compliant new kitty meets another established house cat, all bets are off, and you best leave things such as “pilling” a cat their medications to a veterinarian or lion tamer.

For anyone thinking of having multiple indoor felines, I recommend a nanny cam, as well as an excellent veterinarian (we do) and tons of money (we don’t). The nanny cam will capture which cat just threw up and can be checked after leaping from bed when awaked by the guttural retching sounds. Cats seem to delight in this timing when you are in the tub, running late for work, or embarking on a romantic moment. I joke about chronic cat barf—it’s that or lose my friggin sanity. However, I do take it seriously as it can be an indicator of an illness.

But when you have multiple cats, and they all play dumb and refuse to rat each other out, you can’t tell which one to take to the vet. And right when you do catch one in the act, the others decide to vomit. Is it feline solidarity or some weird feline plague? Certainly, a nanny cam can identify it until the cats wise up, attack it with brute force, and render it a “waste of money.”

Husband and I share our home with four amazing cats, all of whom think they share their home with us. Thank god they haven’t changed the locks yet. Of course, we have Scout, the little dog who adores cats and they her. They accept her as an unusual looking feline that is too uppity to use a litter box (mewing, “Power to her.”) but they frown upon her willingness to wear a collar and allow herself to be leashed. Occasionally, Scout will take their lead and vomit just to be part of the gang and to flummox us into, “Do we call the vet now?”

Scout allows us to “train her” and set boundaries—somewhat. But cats? Never. We kinda appreciate this feline show of defiance and independence. Furthermore, because we fear them peeing on us in our sleep. We pretty much do whatever they “request.” Yes, we’re pussy whipped.

Domesticated cats are those felines that live within your (their) home—some with outdoor privileges (remember, they can shred a door, not just a curtain). A determined cat can take down a solid wood door, or so they say, and who am I to contradict them? Remember: They can pee

on you in your sleep.

Any hoot, these pets—call them pets to their face and they will hiss you into a corner—these feline roommates generally comply with “house rules.” Some examples are: they quickly adapt to a litter box and are very supportive of you changing the litter often (their participation in house work), they’ll clean all food from all cat bowls, and they’re self cleaning, depositing their fur balls where you can see them— underfoot.

Plus, cats love to help with pest control— even if you prefer to use a humane mouse trap. They will allow your device to lure the little cuties in and then bat the trap around until the creature is inhumanely released to their jaws. Luckily, I’ve rescued many a mouse from the jaws of death in the nick of time and proceeded with re-homing them to a field somewhere. The cats look very smug after this, taking all the credit.

Where did I acquire such sweet little feline angels? Rescues. All our pets/ companions/feline and canine roomies are adopted from the street or a TNR clowder. What, you ask, is a TNR clowder? I hoped you would wanna know, as this is a segue to something near and dear to my heart. A clowder is a group of cats, and, in this discussion, they are feral/ stray/homeless/street cats. You see them about town. If you notice a clipped/ tipped ear, this indicates they have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated against rabies, enjoy some legal protections, and deemed healthy enough to be released back to their territory with the rest of the colony of (fixed) cats—their version of home. Trap, Neuter, Return (TNR) is the best humane way to reduce overbreeding and lessen the health complications (i.e. cancer) that result from not being spayed or neutered. Plus, neutered male cats become less aggressive with fewer cat fights and injuries.

Husband and I have been honored to feed and look after a small clowder of “community” cats. Thanks to the SPCA back in 2015, and later Trap Dat Cat, the clowder of ferals we tend to are alumni of the TNR program (TNR is often free or otherwise a small fee). And to those who vilify us and other feeders of these cats, let me remind you: If not for us and the aforementioned groups, you would have potentially hundreds of unwanted cats by now roaming your area. These TNR cats control rodent populations. Removing these cats would merely create a vacuum effect (look it up) and soon many unfixed, breeding ferals would be there to take their place. Exponentially, a pair of breeding cats can produce from 700 to 2,000 offspring in a seven-year span.

We love these noble creatures. We feel privileged to care for them and, in turn, they care for our hearts by filling us with love, empathy, and a sense of purpose.

PO-BOY VIEWS

By Phil LaMancusa

Abide or Exit

You never listen, you just stay and stay. / How can I miss you if you don’t go away?”

—Dan Hicks

Well this is me, going off on a pilgrimage. I’m going far, far away and with her blessings. It’s a trip by planes, trains, and buses—a trek. I’m going to the wild mountains of Sicily to a small town called San Piero Patti, population 2,700, spread over miles and miles of wild terra firma. I’m going to find where my people came from.

In the early days of the 1900s, my 25-year-old grandfather came and settled in a very unlikely place: Altoona, PA. He settled and then sent back to his village for a bride. His name was Filippo LaMancusa. His bride (14-year-old) Carmela Scaglione came and, by the time she was 19, had given birth to five children, one of whom was my father Giuseppe (Joseph). I could tell you stories; however, I only have 1,000 words to spend here.

Debbie and I visited San Piero Patti about 10 years ago. First, you get to Italy—in our case Venice. Then, you take the train to Rome and catch the train to Messina, Sicily. The train actually gets on a boat to get there. Then, by train to a small town called Patti and then a bus up the mountain to San Piero Patti, which is even smaller.

That area is amazing topographically with mountains, beaches, volcanoes (five of them), winding roads, suicidal bus drivers, and fields of olive trees. The people there eat spaghetti, drink strong espresso and wine, love gelato for breakfast, and snack on pastries and pistachios. They are in no particular hurry to do much of anything. It’s as if they have no place to go and nothing to do, which is pretty much the case. I’m going to go over there to join them in these pursuits and personally test these allegations and the alligators. Allegedly, they’re big on street markets as well.

Do I know what I’m doing? I don’t have a clue. I just feel a pull. When we were there, I felt a calm at-homeness—possibly my ancestors watching over me. Do I speak the language? I speak very little Italian and absolutely no Sicilian, which is a separate language of its own. The Sicilian language compared to the Standard Italian language—as it was explained to me—is like someone from Possum Holler, Mississippi conversing with someone from the East End of London.

Sicily is a gumbo of nationality profiles. As early as (and since) the 8th century BC, it has been continually occupied— yes, occupied—by, in succession: Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, the Norman descendants of Vikings, and then Spain before the unification of Italy in 1860.

Any local history buff will be able to tell you of the impact that the Sicilians had on—Louisiana generally and New Orleans

specifically—culture as far as cuisine and attitude. By way of fact, in the early 1900s, what we know as the French Quarter was known as Little Palermo.

What am I going to do in this hamlet for three straight weeks? I have no clue— maybe have gelato for breakfast, drink strong coffee, find a street market, a convenient café, learn the language, do some sketching, take some notes, and possibly meet some distant cousins to commune with.

Yes, I’m taking a sketch pad, a small journal, and this little app that will let my English be translated into their Italian out loud—a two way, real time voice translator. Pretty cool for a guy on his feet wandering the cobbled streets of a small Sicilian village looking like some noodge on the loose.

According to my initial investigation a decade ago, it seems like a significant part of the population of San Piero Patti share the surname of my grandfather and grandmother, and I’ll be happy to track down some and stalk them.

I cannot imagine what it must have been like for my grandparents to come five thousand miles to what they would have seen as a foreign country, not knowing the language or customs, raising a family in hard scrabble times—since grandpa was a farmer—becoming citizens, sending their sons off to war, and trying to make their way in this strange land. What could have possibly been their reasoning for doing that? A better life? An American Dream? Some definition of freedom?

I gotta say here that our immigrants, documented or not, do not have it easy peasy lemon squeezy here. Ask anybody— anybody—that has recent generational immigrants in their family—first, second, or third generation removed. Hell, ask an immigrant. They take any employment available, work hard to make their way, raise and educate their kids, find healthcare and housing, save money, pay taxes, and all they want is a fair shot at the American Dream. I cannot imagine how many are disillusioned making their way into this dysfunctional society and still dreaming of a better life than what they left behind. The ones who get made fun of at school, bullied on the street, taken advantage of in the marketplace, and have to learn to protect themselves against those who, themselves, were once immigrants. Their kids must hate us.

I’m going back to Sicily to basically find out what is so great about America and to try to fathom why such a bucolic and picturesque village in the mountains was/ is such a terrible place that it would prompt my grandparents to face an uncertain future and leave for distant shores where some giant green siren statue of a woman called Liberty beckons with nebulous promises of prosperity and peace.

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Summer fun & Reading Challenge

Monte Cristo French Toast

shaved ham, American cheese, bacon & home fries

Cochon Panini

slow-roasted pulled pork, Provolone, bell peppers, bacon jam, fried egg on a pressed panini

Shrimp and Grits

shrimp sautéed in a cream of garlic sauce over grits & served with white toast

Crab Cake Benedict

2 poached eggs, 2 sautéed crab cakes, hollandaise on a toasted English muffin

Steak Burrito

steak, home fries, eggs, Cheddar cheese, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, Chipotle

Southwest sauce wrapped in a spinach tortilla

Dirty South Bowl

shrimp, andouille sausage, garlic cream sauce over breakfast potatoes topped with Parmesan cheese

Surf and Turf Burrito

Shrimp, steak, onions, bell peppers, eggs, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, Southwest Sauce & avocado crème

Eggs Ranchero

2 fried eggs, Cheddar cheese, crispy tortilla, black beans, red & green salsa, avocado crème

Cajun Cuban

Slow-roasted pork, onions, bell peppers, pickles, served on Ciabatta

Hangover Po Boy

Fried eggs, bacon, hot sausage, American cheese

Bananas Foster French Toast

Served with bacon or sausage, sprinkled with powdered sugar

Shrimp Po Boy

Pork Chop Benedict

Tomatoes Benedict

Cochon Benedict