Adore: May 2024

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR SPRING

EDITOR'S LETTER

Konnichiwa! This letter is coming to you fresh off my first visit to Japan where I ate my weight in fish, egg sandwiches, and Japanese convenience store snacks; discovered my new favorite drink (plum wine with soda); and stocked up on cult skincare finds. It was a very active trip — I hiked, biked, and more than doubled my normal step count each day — but by the time I landed in New Orleans, I was really looking forward to slowing things down again. On the agenda this month are postwork walks in Audubon Park, drinks on my in-law’s porch, and reading and needlepointing in the sun.

This issue of Adore really leans into the slow, outdoor living that New Orleanians especially love to do during this time of year. The French Quarter vacation home designed by Penny Francis that we’ve featured is sure to inspire, and we’ve listed everywhere you need to know about for picturesque dining and drinking this season. If you’re more of a homebody or a hostess, we’ve included recipes from local restaurants that will take your next porch or poolside meal up a notch. The May issue also includes Mother’s Day and graduation gifts, bug-inspired items, a beautiful wedding, and Buster of Forever New Orleans. I hope you enjoy this issue!

- MICHAELA BECHLER

Despite being in Japan for cherry blossom season, many of the trees decided to peak much later than usual. Luckily, the Yamato River in Nara had several blooms!

Adores Things Michaela

DINNER DATE

For your next group dinner, consider indulging in a Family-Style Tasting from Costera (4938 Prytania Street). Earlier this spring, I had the pleasure of sampling the menu featuring seasonal ingredients and flavors and was delighted by each dish (the Charred Romaine with Summer Vegetables and Buttermilk Dressing is still on my mind). Delicious food, great service, and a convenient location check all my boxes!

MORNING GLORY

Sometimes the key to a perfect morning is a delicious pastry. Start your day off with Mae’s Bakeshop (3917 Baronne Street) and expect Southern breakfast options, a cozy atmosphere, and the perfect spot to read your copy of Adore

SIGN ME UP

EXCITED TO READ

Women and Children First by Alina Grabowski (out May 7) takes place in the “decaying coastal enclave” of Nashquitten, Massachusetts where the small community is shaken after a teenage girl dies at a house party. While details of the death are unclear, the story is told through the eyes of 10 local women including the girl’s mother, her teacher, the PTA president, and friends. In each vignette, secrets from the fateful evening as well as other dramas in the sleepy town are sure to emerge.

In our April issue, we covered Bohemian Soul: The Vanishing Interiors of New Orleans , a celebration of the unique style of our city’s homes. Get your hands on a copy at a special book signing hosted by the Garden District Book Shop (2727 Prytania Street) on Thursday, May 9. Designer and writer Valorie Hart and photographer Sara Essex Bradley will be on hand to discuss the new release and sign copies.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SJP LIT

PHOTO COURTESY OF RIZZOLI

PHOTO BY MARIGNY LANAUX

PHOTO BY LOVE IS RAD FOR ELYSE JENNINGS WEDDINGS

Juliska Sofia Melamine Salad Plate $20, Dinner Plate $22, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com

Garden Spade Teaspoons $14.95 / Set of 2, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com 3

Melamine Server $50, Watermelon Mini Topper $17, Susie’s Boutique shopsusiesboutique.com 4

Wine Freeze Cooling Cup $17.99, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com 5

Peter Millar Fields of Carlsbad Polo $125, Iron Horse ironhorsemetairieroad.com 6

22K Gold Plated LINDA FARROW Sunglasses $1,195, Art & Eyes artandeyesneworleansla.com 7

Martin Dingman Loafers $250, Iron Horse ironhorsemetairieroad.com

Outdoor DINING E ASY B REEZY

Whether you’re planning a garden soirée or simply lounging poolside, you’ll want to savor refreshing, light fare. Supplied by local chefs and restaurants, utilize these delicious recipes for your next al fresco adventure!

Yields 1 serving.

Chef and Owner Mike DiIonno of Beggars Banquet (1330 Prytania Street) says this tequila-based cocktail is terrific for outdoor parties.

1 ½ oz jalapeño infused tequila

½ oz Cointreau

¼ oz Luxardo maraschino liqueur

½ oz lime juice

½ oz grapefruit juice

Grapefruit to garnish (dehydrated or regular)

Combine all ingredients in a shaker tin and shake with ice. Strain over ice in a rocks glass and garnish with grapefruit.

Jalapeño-Infused Tequila

Cut up two seeded jalapeños and place them in a bottle of tequila. Let sit for 24 hours.

Spicy BOI COCKTAIL HEIRLOOM Tomato CARPACCIO

Executive Chef and Owner Melissa Araujo of Alma Cafe (800 Louisa Street) creates a famed Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio that makes a refreshing appetizer or salad.

2 large heirloom tomatoes

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

4 oz burrata cheese

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

3 tbsp apple cider balsamic glaze

Smoked sea salt or grey salt to taste

Fresh oregano leaves and torn basil leaves for garnish

Thinly slice heirloom tomatoes and spread them over a large serving dish. Add halved cherry tomatoes, then pull the burrata into small pieces and place over everything. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, oregano, and basil. Sprinkle salt to taste.

Deviled CRAB DIP

Yields 4-6 servings.

For an easy yet decadent dip, whip together this Deviled Crab Dip courtesy of Amarys Koenig-Herndon and Jordan Herndon of Palm&Pine (308 N Rampart Street).

8 oz Louisiana crab claw meat, shells removed

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup mayo

¼ tsp Coleman’s dry mustard

¼ tsp celery seed

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

½ tsp Tabasco mash

(can sub 1 ½ tsp Tabasco sauce)

2 oz sweet onion, small diced

1 oz red bell pepper, small diced

1 oz poblano, small diced

1 oz celery, small diced

1 oz green onion, sliced

1 lemon, juiced

½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Salt & pepper to taste

SICILIAN Sashimi

Yields 3-4 servings.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Stir together all ingredients with salt and pepper to taste. Put the mixture into a casserole dish or Dutch oven. Stir together the topping ingredients until the breadcrumbs are well coated in butter and spread evenly over top. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the dip is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Topping

2 cups panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp parsley, chopped

2 oz butter, melted

Home cooks can easily make a delectable Sicilian Sashimi courtesy of Porgy’s Seafood Market (236 N Carrollton Avenue). This dish requires fresh ingredients, best accessed by visiting a local fishmonger. For portioning, anticipate 3 to 4 oz of fish per person.

12 oz fresh fish (preferably a combination of 3 to 4 different types, such as yellowfin tuna, snapper, or swordfish)

Flaky sea salt

1 lemon

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp minced red onion

1 tbsp capers

1 tbsp thinly sliced celery

Slice each piece of fish against the grain into ¼-inch thickness. Arrange the slices artfully on a plate or platter, alternating each type of fish. Generously season with flaky sea salt, squeeze lemon juice all over, and generously drizzle olive oil on the fish and platter. Finally, garnish with onion, capers, and celery before serving.

PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL

GRANDMA'S Sour Cream POUND

The cake is delicious served by itself, but adding whipped cream and a nice fruit compote adds another level of enjoyment!

CAKE

Makes one 10-inch tube pan.

Savor this sweet, buttery dessert courtesy of Mae’s Bakeshop (3917 Baronne Street).

Recipe by Peggy Moon.

8 oz butter, softened

3 cups granulated sugar

6 eggs

3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

1 cup sour cream

¼ tsp baking soda

1 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Place the softened butter and granulated sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a mixing bowl and hand mixer) and beat until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time and mix until incorporated. Add the sifted flour and mix until just combined. Stir the baking soda and vanilla extract into the sour cream before incorporating it into the mixture. Prepare the tube pan with baking spray or butter and flour. Pour the batter into the tube pan and spread evenly. Place the pan on the center rack of the oven and bake for 90 minutes. Cool the cake completely in the pan, then carefully flip it out onto your desired serving plate!

Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tbsp powdered sugar

½ tsp vanilla extract

Place all ingredients in a small bowl and whip with a hand blender until fluffy stiff peaks form.

Fruit Compote

½ pound fresh fruit, prepared (such as strawberries or peaches)

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp water

Place the prepared fruit and granulated sugar in a saucepot and cook over medium heat until the fruit is the desired tenderness. Mix the cornstarch and water before adding in the fruit. Bring to a boil for 1 minute or until the mixture slightly thickens. Serve warm.

Grilled Chicken SKEWERS

WITH HERB PUREE

Yields about 20 servings.

Fire up the grill and try this delicious skewer recipe by Executive Chef Farrell Harrison of Plates Restaurant & Bar (1051 Annunciation Street). This dish calls for chicken thigh, but multiple proteins can be substituted: lamb, shrimp, beef, or even summer veggies!

5 lb chicken thigh, boneless, skinless, cut into strips

½ cup salt

½ cup sugar

32 oz water

2 oz olive oil

20 six-inch skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water ahead of time)

Salt and pepper as needed

If using chicken, combine the initial salt, sugar, and water in a small pot and warm until dissolved to make a brine. Cool by adding 2 cups of ice. Sit the chicken in the brine for 1 hour. Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry with paper towels. Carefully skewer 1 piece of chicken onto each skewer. Season with salt and pepper and lightly oil. Cook on a grill for about 2 or 3 minutes on each side or until chicken is cooked through. If you do not have a grill, you can also bake the skewers in an oven set to 450 degrees for 8 minutes. Once all the chicken is cooked, place it on a platter and pour the chermoula generously over the dish.

Chermoula

2 bunches of parsley, leaves picked

6 green onions

1 ½ oz fresh mint, about 30 leaves picked

1 ½ oz basil, about 30 leaves picked

1 cup olive oil

2 cloves garlic

4 oz (V) white balsamic

¼ tsp cumin

A pinch of ground clove

A pinch of ground cinnamon

1 tbsp red chili flake

2 lemons, zested

½ tbsp salt

Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree.

Creole Cottage FRENCH QUARTER GUEST HOUSE

ALL-WEATHER FUN

For the outdoor oasis, Penny supplied custom pillows and a sofa from Eclectic Home with a side table and lounge chair by Summer Classics and the large round cocktail table from Bernhardt Exteriors.

WBY MISTY MILIOTO

PHOTOS BY DAYMON GARDNER

hen an Austin, Texas-based family found the perfect vacation home in the French Quarter, they turned to Penny D. Francis, principal designer and owner at Eclectic Home, to design the home of their dreams. In addition to designing the interiors for the two-bedroom, historic Creole cottage, Penny also designed the interiors for the detached guest house and the exterior spaces.

“First and foremost, they wanted the small space to have multiple functions,” Penny says. “The main living area needed to accommodate a sofa sleeper for additional guest quarters, while providing a space for lounging, and a small cafe table space for dining. They wanted a relaxed, approachable space with bohemian flair."

The homeowners also wanted a departure from the neutral environment of their primary home, so adding color and pattern was important in the design. “They wanted a mix of modern furnishings to contrast with the traditional elements and for the space to be fun and interesting.”

GREEN WITH ENVY

The living area also includes a textured chair and macramé stools from Eclectic Home, a Justina Blakley Tiger Rug, and vintage touches with the floor lamp and photograph of Elton John.

CUSTOM COMFORT

The guest cottage living area features a custom sofa and pillows and leather ottomans from Eclectic Home atop a rug from Loloi. Finishing details include the light from Eclectic Home and a lovely vintage mirror.

FLIP TRICKS

The airy kitchen sports a vintage bar cart, gesso wall sconces from Visual Comfort, a rug from Eclectic Home, and the homeowner’s own skateboard.

Shop Home Décor, Jewelry, Gift Registry & Tabletop

FIRST IMPRESSION

A hand-painted mural by New Orleans artist Ann Marie Auricchio, plus an antique crystal chandelier and a custom bench, bring the entrance foyer to life.

BATH TIME

The serene guest cottage bath has an antique clawfoot tub, Carrara marble pedestal and wall tile, plus a round mirror with cane trim from Eclectic Home.

In the main house, the designer kept the original brick walls (after removing drywall) and fireplaces. To update the historic spaces, Penny added new custom sofas and chairs and commissioned a mural for the foyer by New Orleans artist Ann Marie Auricchio. “The selection of furnishings and materials needed to be versatile and provide comfort.”

In terms of color choices, Penny found inspiration in the outdoor landscape. “We wanted to bring the green into the space and complement it with tons of clay from the flooring,” she says. “The brick, ivory, and blue paired beautifully.”

The detached guest house — a two-story structure with private guest quarters, a full bathroom, bar, and living space — features original exposed brick, terra

cotta floors, pine beams, and fireplace and mantel. Penny juxtaposed the traditional architecture with a touch of modernism in the furnishings, and she added layers of textiles to introduce pattern and visual interest. French doors open to the courtyard and saltwater pool, creating a seamless transition. A French water fountain and pool area surrounded by lush landscaping provide privacy and secluded atmosphere.

“It’s truly a mix of periods and styles with moments of graphic pattern and color. It's approachable eye candy. We took some risks, while paying homage and respect to the past and the history of the home.”

COZY CORNER

The guest bedroom’s cozy seating area has an accent chair from Eclectic Home, a Johanna Howard angora throw, artwork from Eclectic Home, and a vintage rattan side table.

TURN DOWN SERVICE

In the guest bedroom, a cane queen bed from Eclectic Home (with bedding by Matouk) takes center stage. The dresser is from Interlude, the pillows are from St. Frank, and the mirror is from Eclectic Home. The blue glass lamp is vintage.

BEAUTY Wings OF 1 2

SIDE UP Sunny

Where to Dine and Drink En Plein Air

BY MARIGNY LANAUX

On a nice New Orleans day, enjoying the outdoors is essential, and there are plenty of places with spacious patios, breezy porches, or picturesque courtyards. Soak up some Vitamin D and enjoy the fresh air at these local spots!

THE ELYSIAN BAR

Known for its brilliantly designed interior, The Elysian Bar also has a stunning outdoor space. Surrounded by blooming jasmine, the courtyard thrives in the spring and early summer, where guests can spread out amongst the iron garden furniture and keep cool under the shaded umbrellas. An ideal time for dining would be during Aperitivo Hour from 3-6 p.m. every weekday for deals on house cocktails.

THE ELYSIAN BAR IS LOCATED AT 2317 BURGUNDY STREET

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ELYSIAN BAR

THE BOWER & BIRDY’S

Connecting

The Bower and Birdy’s is a newly renovated outdoor area equipped with highpowered fans, a sleek metal roof, and delightful string lights. With these updates, the backyard can now seat over 150 guests, making it one of the largest outdoor dining spaces in the city! Whether you’re looking to indulge in cocktails and bites from The Bower or share one of Birdy’s signature brunch boards, the patio is perfect for open-air dining day or night.

THE BOWER & BIRDY’S IS LOCATED AT 1320 MAGAZINE STREET

THE LITTLE HOUSE

Nestled on Algiers Point, The Little House is a quaint restaurant and wine shop with a large patio. Live acoustic music is often hosted at this neighborhood spot, along with “The Table” — a dinner series where guest chefs from across the city prepare a meal and wine pairings are carefully selected for each course. When gathering with a few friends, take a seat at a nearby picnic table, buy a bottle, and indulge in a spread of creative small plates.

THE LITTLE HOUSE IS LOCATED AT 640 BOUNY STREET

PARK VIEW HISTORIC HOTEL

The Park View Historic Hotel doesn’t just have beautiful rooms that overlook the oak trees and lush greenery of Audubon Park. You can also admire the scenery after stopping into The Gilded Perch, the charming downstairs bar with antique finishings and peacock décor. Craft cocktails, glasses of wine, or locally made beers can be enjoyed daily on the porch or patio along St. Charles Avenue.

PARK VIEW HISTORIC HOTEL IS LOCATED AT 7004 ST. CHARLES AVENUE

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOWER & BIRDY'S

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LITTLE HOUSE

CHEMIN À LA MER

When visiting Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, take the elevator up to the fifth floor where you’ll find a fine dining restaurant with a gorgeous terrace. French for “pathway to the sea,” Chemin à la Mer prepares many of its dishes with fresh fish from the Gulf Coast, serving up snapper ceviche, steamed shrimp, and raw oysters from the in-house oyster bar. When you dine outside, you’ll savor the sweeping view of the Mississippi River as boats cruise below.

CHEMIN À LA MER IS LOCATED AT 2 CANAL STREET

Mother’s Day, 5/12

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHEMIN À LA MER

CLASS OF 2024

Graduate with Style

LET'S Celebrate

Reyna & Patrick 11.11.23

BY MARIGNY LANAUX | PHOTOS BY BROCATO PHOTOGRAPHY

During the uncertainty of 2020, Reyna Lubin and Patrick Narcisse met online and after a few dates, one thing was certain: they were meant to be together. A LaPlace native, Reyna always envisioned getting married close to home, and following Patrick’s proposal in July 2022, the two began planning their New Orleans nuptials. As a lawyer and orthopedic surgeon, the busy couple worked with Iris and Oak Events to ensure a smooth planning process.

The morning began with the bridal party getting ready in the presidential suite at The Westin New Orleans with a catered brunch spread by Pigéon Caterers. Reyna chose a timeless look, wearing a dress with long sleeves and a dramatic train from Janene’s Bridal in California. She accessorized with an Essense of Australia veil and Badgley Mischka heels. Patrick worked with Andre Clarke-Womack to create a custom, perfectly tailored white tuxedo. Before the excitement, the couple opted for a private first look to share their vows. “We wanted to have a special moment during the day for ourselves,

“The venue is absolutely breathtaking. It is a restored Catholic church that now operates as a performing arts center and opera house. The stained glass, high ceilings, and distressed walls made it the perfect fit for our ceremony.”

–

REYNA LUBIN

and it was very meaningful,” Reyna shares. “It was also a great way to get all of our pictures done beforehand so we could really enjoy and celebrate with our friends and family during our wedding.”

Decorated with white florals and greenery by Michelle West Design, Marigny Opera House hosted the beautiful ceremony that embodied the classic aesthetic the bride and groom envisioned. The two shared traditional vows and were married by Patrick’s cousin, Pastor Dimitri David. A brief cocktail hour immediately followed in the courtyard with lights hung by Luminous Events, live music by Harry Hardin’s New Orleans String Quartet, charcuterie cups by NOLA Charcuterie, and custom cocktails and mocktails by the mobile bar Tippy Tap.

Paume Design Co. created the invitation suite.

Guests were then transported to the reception at The Westin New Orleans to enjoy classic Southern fare and upbeat tunes by DJ Kelly Green. Reyna and Patrick wanted to make sure they had alone time during the big day and arranged an intimate dinner before rejoining guests at the party. Both Reyna and Patrick are Haitian, so the couple incorporated their culture throughout the celebration. “We had a poem read in French during our ceremony. During the reception, our guests brought Haitian flags, and we also played Konpa music.” Before heading out onto the dance floor, Reyna slipped into an embellished SAU LEE dress, and Patrick swapped his Gucci oxford dress shoes for sneakers. The newlyweds were sent off with a lively second line lead by Kinfolk Brass Band and Mardi Gras Indians.

Hair: Christina Michelle of Nola Beauty

Makeup: Amanda Lee Harvey of Petal Salon

The bridesmaids complemented the wedding color scheme in champagne gowns from Meshki. The groomsmen looked sharp in black tuxedos.

The couple took advantage of the four-tiered wedding cake from Bittersweet Confections! Two tiers were traditional almond, one was lemon, and the last was strawberry.

To honor Reyna’s grandmother who passed away two weeks before the wedding, her bridesmaids gifted her a pendant to attach to her bouquet.

Reyna and Patrick hosted their rehearsal dinner at the Fire House Loft. In anticipation for the next day, the laidback evening consisted of speeches, exchanging stories, and enjoying a spread by Pigéon Caterers.

Being one of three siblings and the first to get married, Reyna and her father sweetly danced to “My Girl” by The Temptations.

WOMEN’S & CHILDREN’S

BY MARIGNY LANAUX

Shop Dog Buster

Blocks away from Jackson Square is Forever New Orleans, a shop perfect for finding gifts, apparel, and home décor inspired by the vibrant city around it. In 2007, Lisa Saladino successfully opened the flagship store in the historic LaBranche Building and now oversees three locations in the area. “We come into contact with so many people from all over the world, and as all small business owners know, every day is an adventure,” Lisa shares. “I am most appreciative of the success that we have had at Forever New Orleans and contribute that to a hard-working team... including Buster.”

Buster is Lisa’s amusing Boston Terrier with a welcoming nature that encourages her to pause and interact more with customers. “He represents New Orleans hospitality at its finest. We often have people stop in to get a little Buster love.” Being a huge people person, the pup thoroughly enjoys working and living in the French Quarter due to the endless foot traffic. He also loves his action-packed job

responsibilities, whether it’s peeking out of the courtyard’s fence to people watch or enthusiastically greeting Brad — the shop’s UPS driver — when he delivers new inventory.

After being cooped up, Buster will impressively fetch his leash in anticipation of a lively neighborhood stroll. He is eager to explore the city as he once escaped on a bustling Friday night and ended up in the back of a police car — you’ll have to visit Buster to hear the rest of the story.

Lisa’s companion may add excitement to the shop and keep customers coming back, but so do the store’s offerings. Alongside their own product line, Forever New Orleans carries an assortment of Louisiana brands and goods made by local artisans, including Bonfolk, Home Malone, Citizen NOLA, and Dat Mambo. Whether you’re a resident or tourist, pop into Forever New Orleans to take a small piece of the city home with you. Buster will be ready to greet you — especially if treats are involved.

Name: Buster

Birthday: May 3, 2015

Breed: Boston Terrier

Favorite thing: People with treats

Pet best friend: His cousin Sonny, a fellow brown and white Boston Terrier.

Favorite nearby spot: Hancock Whitney — the employees are always happy to see him

Favorite Forever New Orleans product: Nola Tawk Chew Toys

The Multi-Colored Crawfish Dog Collar retails for $21.95, and the Rope Chew Toys sell for $14.95 each.

CLASSIC FRENCH-INSPIRED DISHES SIGNATURE CREOLE FLAVORS