A THE ISSUE -LIST
EDITOR Michaela Bechler
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dora Sison
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Sandy Stein
SALES Lauren Cunningham, Olivia Rigol, Alyssa Hauptmann, Abigail Bordelon, Stephanie Clark, Bennett Geston, Jill Dryden, Matt Guidry, Kelly Sonnier, Michelle Tuggle
CONTENT PRODUCER Marigny Lanaux
ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR Tiana Watts
CONTRIBUTING CREATIVES Scott Forsythe, Emma Veith, Jasmyne White, Gavin Donaldson
Serigne Mbaye, Chef & Owner of Dakar NOLA, at Common House New Orleans
PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL
PHOTO BY KAT KIMBALL
EDITOR'S LETTER
After a long, hot summer, Adore is back! I spent the slower months working on my bucket list, reading by the pool, and training my newest family member, Seamus. It’s been fun taking him around town to Barracuda, Miel Brewery, and even waiting in line for a number at H&H Estate Sales.
At the office, our team spent the season planning and prepping for a busy fall filled with amazing content. Kicking us off is our annual A-List Issue, which features 15 inspiring individuals who are proud to call New Orleans home and are making it a better place through their contributions! We loved working with this year’s A-Listers, especially during their photoshoots with Kat Kimball at Common House New Orleans, the city’s newest social club. It was fun to be on location before its grand opening and peek at all its amenities like the gorgeous rooftop pool (learn more about it on pg. 19).
This issue also highlights past A-Listers Chef Eric Cook and Chef Nini Nguyen’s new cookbooks; patterns and shades of green trending in fashion and home design; and important information about Nola Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K and Festival taking place Sunday, October 13 — I hope to see you there! A beautiful wedding and an artsy Shop Dog round out this joyful edition. Thank you for reading Adore, hanging out with us on social media and online, and supporting our amazing local advertisers.
- MICHAELA BECHLER
Enjoying a birthday beer at Miel Brewery with Seamus...who was desperate for a taste!
A THE -LIST
BY MICHAELA BECHLER & MARIGNY LANAUX
15
NOTEWORTHY
NEW ORLEANIANS
Throughout the years, Adore has highlighted 115 local visionaries in our annual A-List issue. We’ve featured everyone from artists to athletes to philanthropists to CEOs. Some of the A-Listers are widely known around the city while others have made waves behind the scenes. From native New Orleanians to more recent residents, each A-Lister’s industry, goals, and favorite places around town have varied, but the widespread dedication to New Orleans in every profile is ubiquitous.
This year’s list continues that tradition. In the sixth iteration of this series, Adore sought out 15 individuals with big dreams for themselves, their fields, and the city. While our team admires their many accolades and achievements, we are even more impressed by their kindness, enthusiasm, and wisdom. We are excited for you to get to know these noteworthy New Orleanians through their words and colorful portraits, and we hope you’ll join us in championing them in their personal and professional endeavors. Remember their names and faces because you are sure to see them around!
PHOTOS BY KAT KIMBALL
SERIGNE MBAYE
7th Ward
CHEF & OWNER OF DAKAR NOLA | 2024 JAMES BEARD AWARD WINNER FOR BEST NEW RESTAURANT
UPCOMING PROJECT
Culinary trip to Dakar, Senegal in January 2025
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? I get to be a part of people’s celebrations every night.
SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS I absolutely love the people of New Orleans. They love to have a good time and are truly genuine. Just running into regular folks on the street is a joy.
FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE
A good shrimp po’boy
FAVORITE NEW BUSINESS Really, any new business opening. I love supporting anyone who takes on the challenge, and I love the diversity that’s happening around the city.
FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS A 7th Ward second line
BAND YOU RECOMMEND Orchestra Baobab
BOOK YOU RECOMMEND High on the Hog by Jessica B. Harris
SOMETHING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Motivational books
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO NEW ORLEANS? Tulane University has a presidential strategic focus on innovation and startup development resulting in the creation of the Tulane University Innovation Institute, a startup for startups. I have the honor and pleasure of leading the effort to provide support for our community of innovators and entrepreneurs.
KIMBERLY MARUSAK GRAMM, MBA,
PhD
Old Metairie
DAVID & MARION MUSSAFER CHIEF
INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
OFFICER AT TULANE INNOVATION
INSTITUTE, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF TULANE VENTURES
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? I am truly inspired by meeting people and helping to make their American Dream a reality each day. I get to play a small part in helping to build a successful business and see the joy someone experiences through mentoring and the programs that result in funding for their startup.
SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS It’s a global city with rich culture, bubbling with kind and caring people, and the next city to host the Superbowl! I’m a huge fan of professional sports and am thrilled we get to showcase the true beauty of a city that is beloved.
FAVORITE NEW BUSINESS All founders in New Orleans making a go as a startup
FAVORITE PLACE TO GO WITH FAMILY The beaches of Florida
SHOW YOU RECOMMEND Bridgerton
BLAS ISASI
Algiers Point
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO NEW ORLEANS? I came to get my MFA degree at Tulane University, and life just happened. I met my amazing wife, a Louisiana native, and now we have a year-and-a-half old New Orleanian boy.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? Spending my time making labor-intensive, strange, and beautiful objects that nobody needs. In a world obsessed with productivity and efficiency, I consider it both a luxury and a vital necessity to not engage in such dynamics.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT Sukeban
BOOK YOU RECOMMEND Human Poems by César Vallejo
TRAVEL SPOT YOU RECOMMEND The Cusco region in Peru. People tend to fixate on Machu Picchu, but the Inca heartland holds so many other amazing sites to visit. One of my personal favorites is Tipón, an easy bus trip east of Cusco city.
GIA M. HAMILTON
Treme
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CHIEF CURATOR OF NEW ORLEANS AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM, FOUNDER OF AFROFUTURE SOCIETY
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? Being able to be wrong about certain decisions, examine them (eventually) without emotion, and make course corrections. I like to learn new things and question things I think I know.
SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS I love the synchronicity of things here. Sometimes it can be difficult to be in the flow because what is required of you in New Orleans is to be and remain authentic, but it is both exhilarating and challenging.
FAVORITE CAUSE As a mother, I am very drawn to support for St. Jude, because I cannot imagine having to go through childhood disease, and the work of St. Jude is so admirable.
FAVORITE PLACES TO TAKE VISITORS Bayou Road, all the shops, Baldwin & Co., and Studio Be
BOOK YOU RECOMMEND Women Who Run with the Wolves by
Clarissa Pinkola Estés
DAVID MORA
West End
PHOTOGRAPHER & CONTENT CREATOR (@DAVIDNOLA)
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO NEW ORLEANS? I was born and raised in the New Orleans area. I moved away for college and jobs but returned home for good in 2015.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? New Orleans is my passion. Capturing and sharing the beauty of the city via my photos to a global audience brings me the greatest joy.
FAVORITE CAUSE I’m often asked to donate my work to silent auctions for charitable organizations; it’s an honor to support any organization that makes New Orleans a better place for all.
PODCAST YOU RECOMMEND Beyond Bourbon Street
LIFE HACK RTA’s Jazzy Pass – I love to ride the streetcar all day for $3
FAVORITE HOBBIES All things Carnival/Mardi Gras, estate sales, Saints football, trying new restaurants and bars, travel, and walking
TRISHELLE CANNATELLA
Lakeview
TV PERSONALITY & ENTREPRENEUR | WINNER OF "THE TRAITORS" SEASON 2, TV CRITICS CHOICE WINNER: BEST ENSEMBLE CAST AND BEST COMPETITION SERIES
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO NEW ORLEANS? I was born and raised on the bayou, baby. I tried living in other cities, but there is no place like New Orleans!
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? In the 22 years I have been in the television business, I have met the most interesting people and had some unique experiences. Not many people can say they lived in a house with Tammy Faye Bakker and Vanilla Ice, was trained to wrestle by Hulk Hogan, or was in an underwater tunnel face to face with an 8-foot alligator. I love that I'm never bored with my job!
FAVORITE MUSEUM The New Orleans Museum of Art's Sculpture Garden, especially when The NOLA Project has performances
FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE Roast Beef Po'boy from R&O's
MUSICIAN YOU RECOMMEND My incredibly talented friend and New Orleans Songbird, Robin Barnes!
FAVORITE QUOTE "To be a woman you have to look like a girl, act like a lady, think like a man, and work like a dog.” - Chef Leah Chase
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? My ability to give my clients the wedding of their dreams. I bring elegance and sophistication to every event, and my mission is to craft bespoke celebrations that reflect clients' unique stories while setting new industry standards.
ANISSA COLEMAN
Autumn Haven
WEDDING & EVENT
PLANNER, OWNER OF ELEGANCE BY ACE
SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS Our culture. New Orleans has a way of bringing people together. There's truly nowhere else like it anywhere in the world.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT Ruth’s Chris Steak House
FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS Breakfast and brunch at Stanley of New Orleans
FAVORITE PLACE TO GO WITH FAMILY Fulton Alley
BOOK YOU RECOMMEND Becoming by Michelle Obama
MORGAN GRAY
Metairie
ARTIST (@MORGANPAINTSSTUFF)
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? Occasionally, I’ll have someone tell me that I’ve inspired them to begin painting, which is incredibly gratifying. Knowing that my work can spark creativity in others makes all the effort worthwhile.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? When I graduated college, I had no plan, just some money I had saved up from doing commissions. Establishing myself in such an unpredictable profession and building my career from the ground up has been extremely rewarding.
FAVORITE HOBBY Thrifting! I’ve recently begun creating paintings using frames I’ve thrifted.
FAVORITE MUSEUM New Orleans Museum of Art
FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc
FAVORITE QUOTE “If you are born an artist, you have no choice but to fight to stay an artist.” - Lana Del Rey
IAM CHRISTIAN TUCKER
Gentilly
PRESIDENT & CEO OF INTEGRATED LOGISTICAL SUPPORT INC. | 2024 SBA NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESSPERSON OF THE YEAR
UPCOMING PROJECTS We are finishing up civil engineering for the entire River District neighborhood. We are also working on design projects for the Army Corps of Engineers in Texas, Pennsylvania, Peru, and various other locations.
SOMETHING THAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT NEW ORLEANS What I love about New Orleans is our people and culture. New Orleans packs more culture into a single block than most places have in their entire town. There ain’t no place like home.
FAVORITE CAUSE Economic equity. Equity for women. Equity for all.
FAVORITE BAR Red Door
FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE Binge-watching Bob’s Burgers at home with my wife and our animals
FAVORITE QUOTE “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” - Shirley Chisholm
UPCOMING PROJECT Free Therapy The Live Album! Free Therapy takes custom poetry and pairs it with an ensemble of musicians. The audience gives me a topic, and I type in rhythm with the band.
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO NEW ORLEANS?
Dillard University! My father went there, and I felt called to continue the legacy. I ended up thinking for myself and began typing poems on Royal Street.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
BETTER KNOWN AS CUBS THE POET
Algiers Point POET & ARTIST
I love the innovation and spontaneity. In the current world of technology creating and connecting for us, I find it rewarding that people seek me out to write them poems. There’s something beautiful about poetry being the road signs.
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I’d rather be a genie than a genius. FAVORITE
PETER HARRIS
Broadmoor
BASSIST & MUSIC DIRECTOR FOR THE BAYOU BAR AT THE PONTCHARTRAIN HOTEL | JAZZ JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION 2024 “JAZZ HERO” AWARD
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? The process of learning this music and getting to play with some of the greatest musicians in the world. To have found an appreciative local audience means a lot to me.
FAVORITE CAUSE I’ve been teaching at the Heritage School of Music since 2008. It is operated by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation and offers free after-school programming for students 8-18 years old.
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I started playing my primary instrument, the double bass, when I was 20 years old and didn’t study music until my 3rd year of college.
FAVORITE MUSEUM The National WWII Museum
FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE Coffee
BOOK YOU RECOMMEND Empire of Sin: A Story of Sex, Jazz, Murder, and the Battle for Modern New Orleans by Gary Krist
BATY LANDIS
Mid-City
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF LONGUE VUE HOUSE & GARDENS
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? Lifelong learning is a part of Longue Vue’s mission, and learning something every day is my favorite part of my job. I have always looked at the arts as a means of connecting us as humans, no matter where we are from, what language we speak, or how much money we do or don’t have.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I am proud of my husband and our children — all independent beings who make the world a better place for those around them. In my work, I am proud to look back at the spaces where I have worked to cultivate a sense of belonging for all.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT Rosedale
FAVORITE PLACE TO TAKE VISITORS Kayaking or walking along Bayou St. John
SOMETHING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Avocados
MATTHEW NGUYEN MALACHI DUPRE
Mid-City
CHEF & CO-OWNER OF KENJI OMAKASE
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? Making people happy and sharing experiences with each other through food
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I am proudest of how far I’ve come in the hospitality industry. Thinking back on my journey, I'd say I'm an “everything happens for a reason” kind of dude. I’ve always worked my butt off everywhere I went and to say I finally have my own restaurant is a literal dream come true.
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I am left-handed and started making sushi while still in my senior year of high school. I'm now 14 years in.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco
FAVORITE NEW BUSINESSES OPPA Korean Fried Chicken and Jolie
PODCAST YOU RECOMMEND The Shop with Lebron James
Bywater
CO-OWNER OF KENJI OMAKASE
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO NEW ORLEANS? Born and raised, but the people keep me here
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
I have always loved sushi and appreciated the artistry of it. Traveling allowed me to see how advanced chefs were in other places, which I felt was missing in New Orleans until I met Matt. I knew he possessed a rare skill set which immediately made me want to open a restaurant with him.
WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I feel like football has translated to my success in business. It takes a lot of attention to detail and discipline to accomplish the job; the small details matter just as much as the big ones.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT Emeril’s
FAVORITE SIMPLE INDULGENCE Fishing
BOOK YOU RECOMMEND Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara
SHIRLEY LEE
Metairie
CHEF & OWNER OF MISS SHIRLEY'S CHINESE RESTAURANT | SOUTHERN LIVING’S BEST NEW RESTAURANT IN LOUISIANA
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? When my children finished their degrees and became professionals. We came to America for a reason; my husband and I worked hard to provide for them to go to school and live the American Dream. When they succeed and accomplish goals, we are also succeeding and accomplishing goals as their parents.
FAVORITE RESTAURANT
Adolfo’s on Frenchman Street. I love their rack of lamb and pasta and the whole experience: the old stairs, the sewing tables, the little food window, and the cash machine that sometimes works.
LIFE HACK Get a vacation home in another country, make yourself travel, and experience life. I waited a long time to do this, and I wish I did it sooner.
FAVORITE HOBBIES
Gardening, cooking, knitting, and sewing
JOIN THE
BY MICHAELA BECHLER
Club
COURTESY OF COMMON HOUSE NEW ORLEANS
Looking for a single place to work, grab a drink with a friend, swim, learn something new, workout, and host a wedding? Good news: Common House New Orleans has arrived. The community-focused social club boasts everything from an in-house bar and restaurant to a rooftop pool to unique programming to multiple event spaces. Located in the former Louisiana Children’s Museum, the color-drenched club opened this summer and is already making a splash among locals.
Common House came about when co-founders Derek Sieg and Ben Pfinsgraff sought to build a place for people of different backgrounds to gather and connect. They decided to focus on mid-sized cities and opened Common House Charlottesville (Virginia) in 2017 which was followed by locations in Richmond, Virginia and Chattanooga, Tennessee.
While creating the New Orleans location, the team worked with Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture and Joshua Joseph Interiors to preserve the 19th-century building’s exterior, iconic blue arched doors, and historic features like the original wood beams. The club is extra playful (a nod to the former tenants) with rich colors and superhero figurines
hidden in plain sight. Funky rugs, striking light fixtures, and works by local artists all add to the whimsy.
The restaurant and bar are led by Chef de Cuisine Sean Rajo and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Expect a taste of Chef Rajo’s Honduran roots and South Asian ingredients and flavors in reimagined classics.
Several spaces are also available for members and non-members to host weddings, dinners, and corporate events and include all-inclusive services like in-house catering, furniture, and professional waitstaff.
Beyond the thoughtful amenities, members have access to about 25 “Goings On” every month that are designed to immerse, inspire, and create connection. Think wine tastings, live music, wellness classes (from sound baths to water aerobics), and art and culture programs. This fall will welcome some of Common House’s annual traditions including October's All Hallows' Eve Halloween Party, November's Friendsgiving, and December's Grand Cuckoo for New Year's Eve.
For more information and to become a member, visit COMMONHOUSE.COM/NEWORLEANS.
PHOTO
Tweed Baseball Cap $38, Hazelnut hazelnutneworleans.com
Checkered Fanny Pack $56.95, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
Dear Perli Toddler Pajama Set $40, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
Peter Millar Joplin Performance Shirt $200, Iron Horse ironhorseclothier.com
Grey Fox Designs Tall Tote $198, Steele at Iron Horse @steeleoldmetairie
Olivia Rubin Darya Skirt
$230, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com 2
Cheers Cocktail Napkins
$7.50, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
3
Piero Massaro Limited Edition Frames
$1,195, Art & Eyes artandeyesneworleansla.com
4
Casero & Associates Bubble
$64, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
5
Flamingo Tulle Ruffle Dress
$35, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
6
5x7 Gingham Frames
$31 Each, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
NOLA DOGS ON A MISSION: Race to the Rescue 5K AND FESTIVAL
BY MICHAELA BECHLER
As events return in full force, be sure to add this year's NOLA Dogs Race to the Rescue 5K and Festival to your calendar. The annual family-friendly event raises funds for local nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to saving animals, keeping them healthy, and educating the community.
Race to the Rescue was started by JoAnne Casey, owner of local boutique Alice & Amelia, after adopting a dog from Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO). “I saw for the first time the amount of work and money that goes into managing a facility and processing the animals that come through the doors,” she shares. “These rescues do amazing work in the community and get no government funding. They also work together to rescue animals.”
Inspired by her experience, JoAnne organized the first race in 2018 which had about 265 participants and raised $4,925. In 2023, the event grew to 650 participants and raised $40,000. This year, JoAnne has two big goals: to have 1,000 registered participants and raise $100,000.
“I wish people would understand the need for resources for animal rescue. The rescues that we work with pull animals from kill shelters throughout South Louisiana. They receive animals from hoarding situations. Most of the animals that go through these facilities arrive with heartworm, which is a very dangerous, painful, and life-threatening disease. The rescues depend on volunteers and donations, and combined, their vet bills are $1M a year.”
Rescue 5K and Festival
There are several ways to support: run or walk at the event, participate virtually from anywhere in the world (people in 25 states supported from afar in 2023), create a fundraising team, and donate. An online auction featuring art, gift cards, hotel stays, and local finds will also begin two weeks prior to the race and conclude after the awards ceremony on Sunday, October 13.
In-person participants will also enjoy a lively second line, a blessing of the pets, local food and beverages, randomly drawn prizes, goodie bags, and the race’s first Artist Village. All participants who register in advance will receive a commemorative t-shirt and medal, and cash prizes will be awarded to the firstplace male and female finishers.
When: Sunday, October 13
Where: Heaven's Pets at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries
Who:
Proceeds will be donated to Animal Rescue
New Orleans (Jefferson Parish), Zeus’ Rescues (Orleans Parish), Take Paws (Orleans Parish), Trampled Rose Rescue (Tangipahoa Parish), and The Inner Pup.
Sign up and donate at nolagirl.org/events
What: NOLA Dogs Race to the
COURTESY OF NOLA GIRL CHARITABLE GIVING
Green
1 Forte Forte Dress $1,070, Sosusu sosusuboutique.com
2 Juliska Colette Acrylic Goblet $20, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
3 Eva Solo Spinning Collander $65, Chouette chouette-nola.com
5
Stoneware Gingko Leaf Plates Large $16, Small $12, Little Miss Muffin shoplittlemissmuffin.com
8 Nation Ingrid Dress $190, Peony peonynola.com 1 2 4 3 5 8 7 6
1 Aria Ring Bag
$54.95, Forever New Orleans shopforeverneworleans.com
2
Mariela Suede Wrap Skort
$47.86, Honeypot Boutique shophoneypotboutique.com
3
Kahler Signature Vase $80, Judy at the Rink judyattherink.com
4
Beatriz Ball Snakeskin Reversable Placemats
$50 / Set of 4, Estella’s Home estellasmetairie.com
5
NANNINI Sunglasses
$585, Art & Eyes artandeyesneworleansla.com
6
Heishi Bead Necklace $2,100, Porter Lyons porterlyons.com
7
Oh, the Places Pillow $37, Alice & Amelia shopaliceandamelia.com
1
The Garden Book
$59.95, NOMA Museum Shop shop.noma.org
2
Stag Beetle Necklace
$3,500, Porter Lyons porterlyons.com
3
Eternal Snow Stem Glass $28 Each, NOMA Museum Shop shop.noma.org
4
Rhinestone Pave Handbag $20, Honeypot Boutique shophoneypotboutique.com
5 Emerald Expansion Ring
$4,895, Porter Lyons porterlyons.com
6 Tuft Ottoman $599, Eclectic Home eclectichome.net
TWO NEW COOKBOOKS LET'S DISH:
by Local Chefs
BY MARIGNY LANAUX
Looking to spice things up in the kitchen? Chef Eric Cook and Chef Nini Nguyen are both talented, local chefs (and former A-Listers!) whose new cookbooks are packed full of mouthwatering dishes with deliciously detailed instructions. Both offer a fresh perspective on cuisine that can be easily added to your culinary repertoire.
PHOTO BY SAM HANNA
MODERN CREOLE: A Taste of New Orleans Culture and Cuisine
Chef Eric Cook has worked in some of the city’s finest establishments, leading him to open two award-winning restaurants of his own: Gris-Gris and Saint John. As an avid collector of old cookbooks and a native New Orleanian, Chef Eric knew he eventually wanted to piece together a book that honed in on Southern, Cajun, and Creole flavors. “I have to admit that this is one of the most difficult things I've done in my career in food service,” Chef Eric shares. “It was nearly impossible to jam 30 years of experiences into one book, then give it a name. I had many conversations with family and friends about what dishes were significant to both me and our community.”
Inside Modern Creole, you’ll find a foreword written by Gordon Ramsay followed by approximately 120 recipes written with Jyl Benson to recreate at home. These dishes can be prepared for a tasty weeknight meal or whipped up while entertaining family and friends. “The kitchen is a great place to tell stories and make memories.”
Modern Creole will be available on September 17 at local bookstores, both of Chef Eric’s restaurants, and Gris-Gris to Go Go — an addition to Gris-Gris that offers grab-and-go goods and retail items. Stay tuned for upcoming book signings, the re-opening of Saint John on St. Charles Avenue, and the chef’s brand-new restaurant: Julia Brown.
TAJIN Vinaigrette
Makes 3/4 cup.
2 tablespoons Tajin seasoning
Kosher salt
Black pepper
1/4 cup Steen’s cane vinegar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Combine the Tajin seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, and vinegar in a small bowl and whisk in the oil until it has emulsified. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Grilled Feta AND TOMATO SALAD
Serves 6.
1 (8-ounce) block feta cheese
2 tablespoons blended oil or vegetable oil Kosher salt
Black pepper
10 ounces arugula, washed and dried 1/3 cup Tajin Vinaigrette
3 large vine-ripened tomatoes, cored and cut into 8 pieces each 1 Sugar Baby watermelon, rind removed, diced 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced Tajin seasoning, for finishing
Heat a grill to medium-high. Brush the feta on both sides with the oil and season with salt and pepper. Using tongs, place the block of feta on the grill. Watch it carefully. Just as it begins to sink onto the grate of the grill, use the tongs to carefully turn it over. As soon as it sinks again, pull it off and set it aside to cool.
Toss the arugula, vinaigrette, tomato, watermelon, and onion in a large bowl. Taste and add salt and pepper. Divide the salad between chilled salad plates. Break the feta into 1-inch chunks and add it to the salads. Top with a pinch of the Tajin seasoning.
Translating to "the special" or "with everything," Đăc Biêt is filled with Vietnamese fare that may have a touch of New Orleans flair. After noticing that people with a Vietnamese background were attending her cooking classes to connect more with their heritage, Chef Nini Nguyen was motivated to demystify the culture’s cooking by preserving traditional recipes and making them accessible.
While compiling her cookbook, Chef Nini narrowed down her perfected dishes. She made sure to include delicacies from northern Vietnam — especially ones her grandmother used to make — as many of these recipes were once at risk of being lost and forgotten. As you cook your way through Đăc Biêt, you’ll find practical and delicious food that can be made in a short amount of time. Readers can learn how to perfect a Sticky Fried Shrimp Bánh Mì, Hà NÔi–Style Vermicelli with Grilled Pork, Pandan Honeycomb Cake, and much more.
“If you decide to cook from this book, I recommend sticking to the recipes because they've been thoroughly tested,” Chef Nini shares. “Start by mastering the sauces — they're key. Once you've nailed the sauces, you can elevate any dish. Feel free to get creative and experiment; you're the chef here.”
PHOTO BY KIMBERLY HA ĐĂC BIÊT
PHOTO BY SAM HANNA
Pork Ribs
GLAZED WITH ROASTED NUOC MAM SAUCE SUON NUONG NUOC MAM
Serves 2.
1 rack St. Louis–style ribs, or your favorite pork ribs
3 tablespoons brown sugar (dark or light)
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
1⁄2 cup Roasted Nuoc Mam Sauce
1⁄4 cup cilantro leaves
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 lime
Clean the ribs to remove any silver skin and membrane on the bone side. In a bowl, combine the sugar, salt, and pepper, and rub all over the ribs. Wrap the ribs tightly with foil and bake at 300°F for 3 hours. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool in the foil. This step is best if cooled overnight.
Unwrap the ribs from the foil, portion them out, and glaze with Roasted Nuoc Mam Sauce. Place under the broiler just until caramelization occurs (about 3 to 5 minutes). Glaze one more time and broil for a minute more. Alternatively, you can do this process on the grill. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and fresh lime juice. Definitely don’t forget the lime juice!
PHOTO BY WILLIAM HEREFORD
ROASTED
Nuoc Mam Sauce
Makes 1 cup.
4 tablespoons crushed red pepper flakes
1⁄4 cup neutral oil
5 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1⁄2 cup Louisiana cane syrup
(Important!! But you can also substitute Lyle’s Golden Syrup)
1⁄4 cup unseasoned rice vinegar
1⁄2 cup fish sauce
4 tablespoons dark brown sugar
In a heatproof bowl, add the red pepper flakes. In a saucepot set over mediumhigh heat, add the oil and heat until hot but not smoking. Add the garlic and fry until light golden, about 1 minute. Using a spider or slotted spoon, transfer the garlic to a plate. Carefully pour the oil into the bowl with the red pepper flakes. In the pot you used for the oil, add the cane syrup, rice vinegar, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the red pepper flakes and the oil back into the pot and cook for a few minutes or until the glaze coats the back of a metal spoon. Add the fried garlic and stir to combine. Remove from the heat.
Let cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep for a few months. If it gets too firm, just stir in a bit of hot water before using. Brush over broiled, roasted, or fried meats, vegetables, or tofu.
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LET'S Celebrate
Mandy & Sidd
3.23.24
BY MARIGNY LANAUX | PHOTOS BY JOSH WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY
Mandy and Sidd Patel’s stunning, three-day celebration embodied love, culture, and beauty. The two met on a dating app in July 2020 and instantly bonded over a prompt about karaoke. Since their relationship began during the pandemic, they had plenty of casual dates at home, resulting in deep conversations and a quick connection that flourished over the next two years.
Once engaged, Mandy pulled from her previous experience working in the wedding industry and shared her go-to list of vendors with Sidd. They planned and reserved everything far in advance to ensure a stress-free engagement, including the multiple outfits for the weekend. Mandy ordered three beautifully made lehengas — pastel, purple, and red — from a shop in Baroda, Gujarat in India. Sidd selected his kurtas from Borota, India, and his wedding day sherwani was
custom-made by Twisted Threads, a designer shop in Bombay, India.
The festivities began with Sangeet — a night of Indian songs and dance — on Thursday evening at the Arbor Room at Popp Fountain in City Park New Orleans. Guests marveled at the rehearsed dances performed by family and close friends and listened to heartfelt speeches from members of the wedding party. Mangalik Prasangs was held at the same venue on Friday, a day filled with religious rituals to prepare the couple for their upcoming marriage ceremony. Both events showcased Sidd’s
True Value Rental and Luminous Events brought the couple’s décor dreams to life.
Southern Approach Events planned the remarkable wedding weekend, making sure the events went off without a hitch.
DJ Shivvy performed during Sangeet and the Hindu ceremony. The Pants Party Band kept people dancing all night long at the reception!
culture; the space was donned with Indian décor by Nirvana Weddings, there was a spread of Indian food by Art of Flavors, and attendees received henna by New Orleans Henna.
The Hindu ceremony took place on Saturday, March 23, where Mandy and Sidd were married by a pair of traditional Indian priests. “We had a father and son so that the father could marry us in traditional Sanskrit, and the son would explain the meaning of each ritual in English,” Mandy shares. “It was a perfect way to keep everyone engaged throughout the 1.5-hour ceremony!” The pair also participated in the “Seven Steps,” a ritual where the couple takes seven steps as they make seven promises to one another regarding their new future as husband and wife.
The newlyweds swiftly changed before the reception with Mandy opting for a lightweight white gown from Unbridaled New Orleans that was perfect for the dance floor. As a former resident of Plano, Texas with an appreciation for Western fashion, Sidd wore a dazzling, baby blue nudie suit designed by Addicted Bespoken with black cowboy boots. The unforgettable wedding weekend wrapped with a vibrant party in the Pavilion of the Two Sisters.
During Mangalik Prasangs, Sidd participated in Pithi, also known as Haldi. This pre-wedding ritual consists of family members and close friends covering the groom’s body in a paste made of turmeric, sandalwood, and other auspicious ingredients. It’s believed to purify the couple, ward off evil spirits, and bring good luck.
Mandy and Sidd danced to “The Best” by Tina Turner. The song reminds the couple of an endearing episode of Schitt’s Creek and Sidd’s proposal.
“Two hours before the ceremony, I had a private moment with my father. He was so excited that he posted a picture of me on Facebook in my full wedding dress hours before the wedding! He was so cute, but I had to tell him to take it down! We laugh about it every time now.” – MANDY PATEL
The large wedding party consisted of cousins, family members, and close friends. Mandy had both a Man of Honor and Maid of Honor — two of her best friends from high school and college, respectively. Sidd’s dadaji (grandfather) served as his Best Man.
Makeup and hair: Dee of Faces of Virtue
Throughout the celebration, what stood out most to the couple was seeing both of their families come together and embrace their cultures.
Jewelry was purchased from Kilian Jewelry in Atlanta, Georgia.
Instead of a honeymoon, the newlyweds got a puppy named Tex! However, they are planning on visiting Colombia at the end of 2024.
Mandy and Sidd had their first look under a breathtaking wisteria tree that only blooms for a few days once a year.
The Plant Gallery utilized tropical greenery for the Hindu ceremony and vibrant, pink and orange florals for the reception.
In lieu of a traditional guest book, guests could “leave a message after the tone” for the newlyweds.
PHOTO BY LOVE
RAD
BY MICHAELA BECHLER
Shop Dog Max
Even though Claire Thriffiley grew up with two artists in her family and won a coloring contest in the second grade, a career in art wasn’t always the idea. But after living and studying for a year in Paris, she immersed herself in the arts, and upon return, applied for a master’s degree in arts business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art. At Sotheby’s, she saw how art and business intersect, which led her to her unique career path and eventually the opening of her own gallery in the French Quarter.
At Claire Elizabeth Gallery, Claire works with artists who exude passion and have an interesting process when producing their work. She enjoys helping them recognize the value in their talent just as much as she loves when clients connect with their work in a meaningful way. Another perk of the job is working with Max, a lovable Bichon Frisé that she co-parents with her best friend Mandie Landry and partner Allen.
“We like to say that we have a very ‘modern family,’” she shares. “This started in 2020 when we offered to watch Max and his brother Beau while Mandie was away at legislative session. (Mandie is a State Representative for District 91
in New Orleans.) Very quickly we fell in love with both dogs and realized Max thrived in a home where he was the only dog. I hesitated at first to bring Max to the gallery, because he has a lot of energy, but he took to it like a fish to water. Max is truly a ‘people person,’ so he thrives in an environment where he can visit with people, and the gallery is a perfect place for that.”
Once Max is clocked in, he alternates between welcoming guests to the gallery and guarding Claire and the art from his bed. He is also an art model and helps Claire when she needs to show a piece to her clients. She photographs Max in a chair next to the work so they can understand the size, color, and texture. On his days off, Max lives for walks to Envie Espresso Bar & Cafe where he visits his friends and gets a piece of sausage from Mr. Cliff.
While Claire can’t (and won’t!) choose favorite artists, she’s particularly excited about debuting a group exhibition this fall with artists Ben Depp, Ida Floreak, and Heather “Bird” Harris. Visit the gallery to see the beautiful works exploring nature and ecology, and of course, Max.
Name: Maximus “Max” Landry-Thriffiley
Age: 9 years old
Breed: Bichon Frisé
Zodiac sign: Gemini
Favorite place to walk: The French Quarter
Favorite foods: Sausage patties, rotisserie chicken, and tomato soup
Pet best friend: His brother Beau
Impressive tricks: Max is working on becoming bilingual and responds to commands in English and French.
“Art galleries can often be intimidating places to visit, but Max makes people feel right at home. His demeanor allows clients to know that this is a warm and welcoming place where people can feel free to ask questions and learn about a work of art.”
- CLAIRE THRIFFILEY
Claire and Max in front of a Megan Lightell work.
Max posing next to a Ben Depp photograph.
