As cool breezes begin to sweep in, we welcome you to the radiant and cozy moments of fall and winter.
These months are perfect for gathering with loved ones, enjoying breathtaking sunsets and relishing the beautiful weather. Whether you’re here for festivals like the Wooden Boat Fest (page 9), the food or the fun, The Northshore promises unforgettable memories.
For those with a penchant for the past, this issue highlights great spots for antique shopping and museum hopping (page 10-11). Exploring unique treasures has never been more exciting and immersive.
Bike rentals offer a sustainable way to get around the parish and explore our scenic trails. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or you're simply seeking a leisurely ride, the Tammany Trace promises breathtaking views and a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature (page 12).
Take a much-needed culinary recharge either indoors or outdoors this season. The Northshore offers dining options to suit every taste, and as for my family, we enjoy dining out together more than anything. We love discovering new restaurants just as much as our tried-and-true spots, and I find great joy in sharing our pastime with you. Gather your family and friends at our outdoor and waterfront dining venues, where you can savor delicious meals
while enjoying our picturesque views (page 20). Or for more casual outings, we’ve got you covered with recommendations for mouthwatering burgers and pizza spots (page 24-27).
When you’re ready for more outdoor activity, water recreation remains the foundation of Northshore fun (page 34-39). Imagine your day spent gliding across serene waters, reeling in the catch of the day or simply soaking up the sun’s warm rays. Here, we float our own boat and savor every bit of the good life!
We hope this guide becomes your ultimate companion. For even more tips and stories, visit us at VisitTheNorthshore.com. Also, don’t miss All The Waves, our new-ish podcast, where we dive into engaging stories from the personalities that make this place so special and hard to leave. Capture and share your moments with us by tagging your photos with #VisitTheNorthshore and #TammanyTaste. We hope you embrace the magic of fall and winter and celebrate these enchanting seasons.
Katie Guasco, CDME EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Katie Guasco, CDME
EDITORIAL STAFF
Erica Sweeney Glory, Sarah Hill, Roberta Carrow Jackson
With warmth and excitement,
CONTRIBUTORS
Jyl Benson, Liz Bragdon, Donna Bush, Beth D'Addono, Carroll Devine, Jordan Fuller, Laura Kiniry, Pet Friendly Northshore
FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHERS
Virender Ajmani, Donna Bush, Leah Dominique, Kevin Garrett, Cheryl Gerber, Laura Grier, Jordan Hefler, Joanie Johnston, Bill Lang, Anthony Chopper Leone, Eric Lindberg, George Long, Joseph Marc, Anna Rockhold, Randy Schmidt, Bobby Talley
The Northshore guide is dedicated to Renée Kientz.
PRESIDENT AND CEO
Donna O'Daniels, CDME
Visit The Northshore 68099 Highway 59 Mandeville, LA 70471 (985) 892-0520
VisitTheNorthshore.com
CREATIVE DIRECTION
PRESIDENT/CEO
Kimberly Ferrante
GROUP PUBLISHER
Adam Pitluk, PhD
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Info@midwestluxurypublishing.com midwestluxurypublishing.com | (917) 447-7731
The Northshore is a biannual publication of Visit The Northshore. Visit The Northshore provides visitor information and assistance to leisure and business travelers in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana. Find comprehensive listings for accommodations, attractions, dining and events at VisitTheNorthshore.com
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Plan Your Visit
Oct. 2-6
ST. TAMMANY PARISH FAIR
Carnival rides, critters and food
Oct. 5
LOUISIANA FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Delicious fare and entertainment
Oct. 5
BLUESBERRY MUSIC & ART FESTIVAL
Music, art and blueberry treats in Covington
Oct. 11-12
ABITA FALL FEST
Music, dancing and Abita Beer
Oct. 12
FALL FOR ART
Art, music and food in downtown Covington
Oct. 12-13
GREATER NEW ORLEANS MILITARIA SHOW
Military antique and collectible vendors from 20 states
Oct. 19
SUNSET SYMPHONY ON THE LAKE
Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra plays a soundtrack for sunset at the lakefront
Oct. 19-20
WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL
Maritime fun in Madisonville, a 2023
Signature Event of the Southeast
Oct. 25-27
OZONE SONGWRITER FESTIVAL
100+ free performances in Covington
Oct. 26-27
SLIDELL ANTIQUE
STREET FAIR
Hunt treasures in Olde Towne
Nov. 9-10
THREE RIVERS ART FESTIVAL
Juried outdoor art in Covington
Nov. 16-17
ST. TAMMANY COLLECTORS CONVENTION
Comics, toys, games, artists and cosplay in Mandeville
Dec. 6-31
HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS
Strolling the lights, carnival rides and youth performances
Dec. 6-7, 13-14
CHRISTMAS UNDER THE STARS
Festive decorations, Santa & Mrs. Claus and more in Slidell’s Griffith Park
Dec. 6
LPO PERFORMS CHRISTMAS CLASSICS
Handel’s glorious Messiah in Covington
Dec. 7
CHRISTMAS IN COVINGTON
Festive fun with a parade and tree lighting
Dec. 7
WINTER ON THE WATER PARADE & FESTIVAL
Santa on parade along the Mandeville lakefront and a party at the Trailhead
Dec. 7
SANTA ON TRAILS 5K RUN/WALK
Runners in Santa suits in Fontainebleau State Park
Jan. 6 – March 15
MARDI GRAS
Boats, floats and pups on parade
Jan. 10-12
ABITA SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Features, shorts and docs from around the world
March 16
CHEF SOIRÉE
Culinary delights and music under the oaks
March 29
WHOLE TOWN GARAGE SALE
Abita’s colossal yard sale
March 29
TOUR DE LIS LOUISIANA BIKE RIDE
“Healin’ through wheelin’” in Fontainebleau State Park
*all events are subject to rescheduling, canceling or postponing. visit our website for current information.
Mardi Gras
2025 PARADE SCHEDULE
For the latest news on parades and more, check out VisitTheNorthshore.com/mardi-gras
JANUARY 11
Mande Kings Day Parade, Mandeville, 2 PM
St. John Fools of Misrule March, Covington, 6 PM
JANUARY 25
Krewe of Majestic, Covington, 11 AM
FEBRUARY 14
Mystic Krewe of Titans, Slidell, 6:30 PM
FEBRUARY 15
Krewe of Bilge, Slidell, 12 PM
Krewe of Poseidon, Slidell, 6 PM
FEBRUARY 16
Krewe of Pearl River Lions Club, Pearl River, 1 PM
The Wooden Boat Festival Delights Guests of all Ages.
CELEBRATE THE NORTHSHORE'S RICH MARITIME HERITAGE at the annual Wooden Boat Festival, held in the fall along the scenic Tchefuncte River in Madisonville. This two-day extravaganza attracts more than 30,000 visitors and offers an unforgettable experience filled with history, family fun and, of course, stunning wooden boats.
The festival is beautiful, featuring an array of vintage boats, sailboats and meticulously hand-built wooden canoes and boats. Their polished wooden decks shine in the sun, and you’ll find nautical flags flowing in the sky. Visitors can explore these masterpieces, even hopping aboard some to appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship of their owners up close.
One of the festival’s most anticipated events is the Quick 'n Dirty Boat Building Contest. Teams of enthusiastic participants have just 14 hours to construct boats, which they then race in a 100-yard course. The creativity and humor of the teams are on full display, with members donning playful costumes and the boats often hilariously disintegrating upon hitting the water, much to the delight of the cheering crowds.
Young festivalgoers will find endless excitement in the Children's Village. Here, kids can build and customize miniature wooden boats at the Kid's Boat Shop, with guidance from the skilled members of the St. Tammany Woodworker's Guild. Testing the buoyancy of their creations is the final thrilling step, leaving kids feeling accomplished and sparked with joy.
The Wooden Boat Festival is more than just a celebration of maritime craftsmanship; it’s also a significant cultural event.
The Wooden Boat Festival is more than just a celebration of maritime craftsmanship; it’s also a significant cultural event. In fact, Southeast Tourism Society named Wooden Boat Festival one of the Signature Events of the Southeast in 2023.
Throughout the weekend, the festival buzzes with live music and engaging art exhibitions. The festival supports Maritime Museum Louisiana, the state's sole museum dedicated to preserving and promoting Louisiana's maritime history. Proceeds contribute to the museum's operations and the restoration of the iconic Tchefuncte River Lighthouse.
So, make your way to Madisonville for a weekend brimming with excitement and delight. The Wooden Boat Festival is set to deliver unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.
Museum Hopping on The Northshore
An Immersive Journey for History Buffs and Curious Explorers.
BY LIZ BRAGDON
EDUCATIONAL AND INTRIGUING, fascinating and delightful— sometimes downright strange—there’s a Northshore museum for every history buff and curious explorer.
The Abita Springs, Covington and Mandeville town museums are located along the historic Tammany Trace. Slidell Museum is in picturesque Olde Towne Slidell. As closely connected as our communities are, each has its own colorful character. To understand why, you might start here.
Louisiana culture is deeply intertwined with its waterways—our rivers, lakes, swamps, bayous and the Gulf Coast. Visit Maritime Museum Louisiana on the Tchefuncte River for engaging, detailed exhibits about Louisiana’s maritime history.
At Bayou Lacombe Museum, learn about the region’s first people, the Choctaw, and the area’s blended Choctaw and French heritage. Down the road, Pearl River & Honey Island Swamp Museum showcases life in our wetlands and how we are ensuring preservation of one of our nation’s unique and beautiful ecosystems.
Interested in historical architecture and genteel lifestyles? Tour the charming Anglo-Creole-style Jean Baptiste Lang Creole House Museum. Not-to-be-missed and most unusual of all are our last two stops on the museum trail. The Abita Mystery House is home to folk art oddities and native curiosities found nowhere else, including the fearsome bassigator, mystical swamp ghost and House of Shards. And the 150-year-old family-owned H.J. Smith & Sons General Store & Museum never disappoints. Inviting and chockfull of old-timey tools, artifacts (mundane and peculiar) and unexpected historical treasures, the kids especially will enjoy tracking down the elusive and ancient petrified rat.
LOCAL MUSEUMS
ABITA MYSTERY HOUSE/UCM MUSEUM
22275 LA-36, Abita Springs abitamysteryhouse.com
ABITA SPRINGS TRAILHEAD MUSEUM
22044 Main St., Abita Springs trailheadmuseum.org
BAYOU LACOMBE MUSEUM 61115 S. St. Mary St., Lacombe bayoulacombemuseum.com
COVINGTON TRAILHEAD MUSEUM 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington covla.com
Discover Treasures in The Northshore’s Historic Districts.
BY LIZ BRAGDON
ON YOUR HUNT FOR ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE TREASURES, you’ll inevitably find yourself traveling some of The Northshore’s most picturesque and well-trodden byways, highways and historic districts. Covington is home to many unique and eclectic neighborhood shops like Copper Rooster, Rosemary’s Closet and Patina Interiors. For fine antiques, visit St. Romain Interiors, nestled in the curve of the Tchefuncte River in Madisonville. Mae Antiques in the quaint heart of Old Mandeville is a local favorite, and Olde Towne Slidell is known for its antiques district. If you’re on a serious antiquing quest, consider some Northshore paths less travelled. In all the stories, the rarest treasures are often found in the most unexpected places. And the best part? You might discover a new favorite shop, beautiful views you’ve never seen before, a local dish you’ve never tried or a new place you’d love to stay. One adventure can always lead to another…
LOCAL SHOPS
ANTIQUES & ART ON FIRST
1952 First St., Slidell (985) 643-4790 antiquesandartonfirstla.com
SEASONED CYCLISTS AND LEISURE RIDERS ALIKE enjoy the beautiful Tammany Trace, a 31-mile paved path through towns and green spaces. The Trace winds through St. Tammany Parish and connects Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and Slidell. You can bring your own bike or rent one at any of the shops listed. Call the shop directly to reserve, or just show up and enjoy the ride!
BROOKS' BIKE SHOP OF COVINGTON
416 E. Gibson St. (985) 338-5933
BROOKS' BIKES/TRIKES & BEYOND OF MANDEVILLE 128 Girod St. (985) 231-1079
BROOKS' BIKE AND BOARD SHOP OF SLIDELL 208 W. Hall Ave. (985) 265-4278
TAMMANY TRACE
Creature Connections
Fall into Adventure with The Northshore's Captivating Wildlife Encounters.
BY DONNA BUSH
AFTER SUMMER, our much-needed fall is finally here. The cooler weather is an opportunity to get outside and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature. There’s no shortage of both free and paid activities. Flip the page for activities across The Northshore.
Afamily favorite is to visit the 900-acre wildlife preserve, Global Wildlife Center, for a little taste of Africa, Asia, Australia, North America, South America, India and Europe all rolled into one. Get up close with approximately 30 species, including giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, bison, a variety of deer and more. Choose between a guided wagon tour or a private tour in a 4x4 Pinzgauer to feel like you are on an African safari. Buy a bucket of food to entice these stunning creatures closer for a selfie.
For a bit more of a Louisiana wildlife experience, check out Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery, with a goal of sharing the history and conservation of the American alligator. Its tours are both educational and entertaining, allowing you to feed, touch and hold an alligator.
To see alligators in their natural habitat, hop on an amazing Honey Island Swamp Tour for a boat ride deep into a peaceful, serene cypress swamp along the Old Pearl River. Enjoy the scenic, moss-draped oak trees and old growth cypress. Keep an eye out for a barred owl staring at you from his hunting perch, a bald eagle soaring overhead, raccoons fishing for dinner or a wild boar on the hunt. Even with the cooler weather, you may still see large alligators sunning themselves on a log or the shore. Swamp tours typically last two hours and provide the opportunity to see and photograph various waterfowl, wading birds, osprey, deer, nutria, beavers, turtles and more.
For an alternative to boating, drive into Honey Island Swamp via the Louisiana Pearl River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) just north of Slidell. You will need a Louisiana Wildlife Management Area permit, which can be purchased online at www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/wmasrefuges-and-conservation-areas. Similar wildlife experiences may occur on a drive or a hike through the WMA. Regardless of your mode of transportation in the swamp, you are not likely to see the infamous Honey Island Swamp Monster!
For free wildlife and outdoor adventures, hike or paddle Big Branch or Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuges
These creature connections not only entertain but also educate visitors on the importance of conservation and the beauty of wildlife. Grab your camera, pack your sense of adventure, and head outdoors to make the most of the cooler weather and the incredible biodiversity that The Northshore has to offer.
Global Wildlife Center
Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge
Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery
Swing Into Fall
From Serene Waterside Challenges to Modern Fairways, Discover the Golfing Experiences of The Northshore.
BY JORDAN FULLER
Rediscover the golf courses on The Northshore, a place where water influences culture and events but also offers diverse golfing experiences. While many courses are private, they generally welcome members of other clubs. Here are some notable ones:
MONEY HILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB: This 18-hole championship course spans a vast 12,500-acre area and presents a challenging play with a rating of 74.4. The final five holes around a lake, featuring a signature island green on the 16th, are particularly striking.
OAK HARBOR GOLF CLUB: Known for its design by Lee Schmidt with Pete Dye influences, Oak Harbor caters to all skill levels. The course includes intimidating water carries and par-5s that offer birdie opportunities, while sneaky hazards like sand traps and water hazards enhance the challenge.
COVINGTON COUNTRY CLUB: Stylish and modern, Covington offers a unique vibe with reasonable fees and the option of a Family Membership, which allows frequent play without green fees. Special days include Seniors Day on Mondays and Ladies Day on Thursdays.
TCHEFUNCTA COUNTRY CLUB: Suitable for all golfers, Tchefuncta features well-maintained fairways and challenging greens. It offers various tees and practice facilities like a driving range and putting greens.
PINEWOOD COUNTRY CLUB: This private club requires an invitation from a member unless you're accessing the public driving range. The course is beautifully maintained with tree-lined fairways and provides a scenic walking experience.
These aren’t the only golf courses on The Northshore that are worth a play. If you’re a fan of the sport, they all merit spending some time on, especially if you enjoy being outdoors and surrounded by nature.
Oak Harbor Golf Club
Get Your Game On
Arcades and VR Activities on The Northshore.
BY ERICA SWEENEY GLORY
THE NORTHSHORE IS EXPERIENCING A RENAISSANCE OF ARCADES combined with an explosion of virtual reality (VR) gaming facilities, popping up as hot spots for fun and excitement. When exploring a destination, it’s always good to have options for indoor activities on hand. No matter the weather or desired activity level, there is always something a group can experience together. These lively venues offer a mix of sports, games and socializing that everyone will love. Top that off with quality south Louisiana food and beverages, and you’ve got a winning activity. There are multiple locations on The Northshore where you can get your game on, three of them being The Arcade on Carey in Olde Towne Slidell, The 19th Hole in Covington and Loft18 in Mandeville.
At The Arcade on Carey, visitors can enjoy amazing golf simulators, play on top-notch billiards tables and experience the thrill of actual axe throwing. The venue also offers a delicious selection of food and drinks, perfect for snacking while watching your favorite games on big screens. arcadeoncarey.reservewithrex.com
The 19th Hole is tucked away in the Three Rivers area of Covington off Hwy 190. Despite its name, this place is way more than just virtual golf. Soccer, baseball, and their most-popular, virtual basketball, are some of the other sports also available to play. 19thholeatthreerivers.com
Loft18’s beautiful turf, the vibe of the bar and the special event space make this fun VR venue stand out. Acoustic music nights, burgers of the month, sports games on giant TVs and evolving drink menus make this place feel fresh with something always going on. Here’s a pro tip: look for weekday deals, and be sure to sign up for their SMS messages. They are great at sending out texts to customers with coupons for bays, event information and food and drink specials. loft18.com
These gaming centers are ideal for sports fans, social gatherings and anyone looking for fun, relaxation and great memories. And there's no need to be athletic! Simply show up ready to have a good time.
NEW ATTRACTION
Urban Air Adventure Park
Also not to miss—the new Urban Air Adventure Park, the latest family-friendly attraction on The Northshore. Located on Hwy 190 in Covington, this place is more than just a trampoline park. It boasts spin zone bumper cars, ropes courses, climbing walls, battle beams, obstacle courses, dodgeball, tumble tracks and even indoor go-karts! urbanair.com/louisiana-covington
Arcade on Carey
Eat and Drink Like a Local
NOLA Southern Grill
Recharge with Open-Air Dining
Delight in The Northshore's Cozy Patios and Stunning Waterfront Views.
BY KATIE GUASCO
DURING FALL AND WINTER on The Northshore, it’s easy to discover al fresco dining choices all across the parish. From enviable patios equipped with outdoor games and twinkling lights, to relaxing waterfront options offering perfect sunset views, the options are truly endless. You can indulge in world-class culinary offerings from mouthwatering comfort foods to gourmet dishes, all while soaking up a picturesque outdoor atmosphere.
Waterfront Dining
ABITA ROASTING CO.
Specialty coffee and homey café near the Tchefuncte River.
504 Water St., Madisonville (985) 246-3340
EIGHT60 WINE WHISKEY BITES
Extensive wine, whiskey and bourbon to pair with delicious bites overlooking a serene canal in Eden Isle.
860 Oak Harbor Blvd., Slidell (985) 259-4051
UGLY DOG COASTAL KITCHEN
Fresh, local seafood at this coastal-themed spot on the Tchefuncte River.
708 Water St., Madisonville (985) 792-7092
PALMETTOS ON THE BAYOU
Upscale restaurant on Bayou Bonfouca with Cajun and Creoleinspired dishes and live music.
1901 Bayou Lane, Slidell (985) 643-0050
PAT’S REST AWHILE
Southern comfort food and oyster bar on Lake Pontchartrain.
2129 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville | (985) 951-2173
PHIL'S MARINA CAFE
Casual Louisiana seafood dishes on the waterfront near Lake Pontchartrain.
1194 Harbor Drive, Slidell (985) 641-0464
RIPS ON THE LAKE
Known for its seafood specialties and lakefront views.
1917 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville | (985) 727-2829
TCHEFUNCTE’S AND THE ANCHOR
Two restaurants offering fine dining with riverside balcony or casual fare with boat access on the Tchefuncte River.
407 St. Tammany St., Madisonville | (985) 323-4800
Proper Patios
ABITA BREW PUB
Famous local beers and Louisiana pub favorites adjacent to the Abita Springs Trailhead.
72011 Holly St., Abita Springs (985) 892-5837
THE CHIMES-COVINGTON
Southern cuisine and an ample bar menu on the Bogue Falaya River. Paddling rentals available.
19130 W. Front St., Covington (985) 892-5396
COVINGTON BEER GARDEN
Brews, snacks and a community vibe adjacent to the Covington Trailhead.
434 N. New Hampshire St., Covington | (985) 327-7570
KELLY’S COASTAL CABANA
Laid-back coastal fare one block from the Lakefront.
124 Girod St., Mandeville (985) 231-6623
MIDDENDORF’S SLIDELL
Famous for their thin-fried catfish and seafood dishes.
1951 Oak Harbor Blvd., Slidell | (985) 771-7777
SOUTHSIDE CAFÉ
American eatery known for hearty sandwiches and burgers with a covered patio.
Chef/Entrepreneur Efrain Bermudez Brings the Flavors of the Caribbean and Central America to The Northshore.
BY JYL BENSON
WHEN EFRAIN BERMUDEZ FIRST MOVED TO NEW ORLEANS from Orlando, he met a local firefighter. “I told him I planned to move my family to the area. He lived on The Northshore and raved about the quality of life there. I fell in love with the area just as soon as I crossed the Causeway to check it out. That was 18 years ago. Food was an important part of my upbringing. I loved the environment on The Northshore, but no restaurants catered to the Hispanic community beyond Mexican restaurants.”
A yearning for the flavors of his childhood inspired him to open EmpaTaco in Madisonville nine years ago. “Though I grew up in Orlando, which has a large Puerto Rican community, my family is from Colombia and the Dominican Republic, and the foods of all those places are what I ate while growing up,” said the Cordon Bleu-trained chef and a graduate of Florida International University. “My wife is from Guatemala. When we opened EmpaTaco, we
A yearning for the flavors of his childhood inspired him to open EmpaTaco in Madisonville nine years ago.
did so to feature the foods of the Caribbean—beans, rice and empanadas—as well as those of Guatemala— tacos.” Traditional Ropa Vieja (shredded beef) served with rice, black beans and sweet plantains; and Bandeja Paisa (a Colombian platter with steak, chorizo, deepfried pork belly, rice, red beans, an over-easy egg, arepas and sweet plantains) are menu specialties.
Later he opened Valencia in downtown Covington, bringing an elevated approach to the culinary traditions of his paternal greatgrandmothers' and grandfathers’ homeland. “My great-grandfather was the treasurer to the King of Spain. With that in my family, I wanted to focus on something more than street food and tapas." Open for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, Valencia's specialties include ceviche, paella, Gambas al Ajillo (shrimp, olive oil, garlic, pimenton de la vera, white wine), Spanish Albondigas, Pan con Tomate (sofrito, smoked Manchego cheese, olive oil) and both grilled and charred octopus.
In a move that took him away from foods with which he was familiar, he opened Geaux Pizza & Wings in Folsom to satisfy the community’s demand for America’s favorite food. “I am an entrepreneur. I will try anything. You can make of yourself whatever you want. When I moved here, I kept seeing all these signs ‘Geaux Saints!’, and ‘Geaux Tigers!’ I asked a friend, ‘What does ‘Go-Ox!’ mean?” After a long laugh, Bermudez nabbed that bit of colloquial language to name his pizzeria, which also offers salads, calzones and desserts.
Bermudez will soon open a second EmpaTaco location in Lacombe. “The menu will be the same, but we will have a bar and more seating.”
Not one to rest, Bermudez will also be opening Fuego Chicken in Madisonville. “It will be fast-casual,” he said, “but with healthful Caribbean-style grilled chicken as the menu centerpiece.” Accompaniments to the seated, familystyle menu will include yucca, beans and rice.
EFRAIN'S RESTAURANTS
EMPATACO
101 Hwy 22 W., Madisonville (985) 792-7157 empataco.com
GEAUX PIZZA & WINGS
82361 LA-25, Folsom (985) 796-4207 geauxpizza.com
VALENCIA
315 N. Vermont St., Covington (985) 900-2151 thevalenciarestaurant.com
Bengliz and Efrain Bermudez
Love at First Bite
Get Your Burger Fix on The Northshore.
BY SARAH HILL
The Mushroom Burger at Coffee Rani
Hijacked Burger at Rusty Pelican
FROM UNIQUE TAKES ON THE CLASSICS to vegetarian options, restaurants around The Northshore create love at first bite with these burgers.
With locations in both Covington and Mandeville, Rusty Pelican is easy to stop into and enjoy one of the many burger options on the menu. A unique choice includes the Southern Comfort Burger. Topped with pimento cheese and a fried green tomato, this burger is sure to satisfy. If a little heat is what you’re after, take a taste of the Special Burger. With a hot sausage patty and both melted and fried cheese, the first bite of this burger will help you understand why it is called special. sippinstation.com
Another not-to-miss spot in Covington and Mandeville is Coffee Rani. The Mushroom Burger is a treat for everyone, not just vegetarians. This “burger” features grilled portobello and button mushrooms held together with provolone and Swiss cheese. Avocado, alfalfa sprouts, diced onion, carrots and purple cabbage add a bit of color, making this burger Insta-worthy. coffeerani.com
Over in Slidell, Southside Café is a lively place with vintage military memorabilia adorning the walls and murals painted by local artists. With an assortment of local and regional beers on tap and a 10oz. brisket burger on the menu, it doesn’t get much better, right? Wrong. Take the brisket burger and request it “smothered.” It will come topped with grilled onions, mushrooms and brown gravy, making it a heap of deliciousness. southsidecafe.net
The Greyhound boasts the hidden gem among burgers in Covington. The Greyhound Pub Burger may sound simple but do not be fooled. This burger is juicy and hearty with patties made of short rib, chuck and sirloin topped with a truffle aioli, creamy gruyere cheese, crispy cremini mushrooms and caramelized onions on a brioche bun. Pair it with a signature cocktail and let your senses soar. thegreyhoundcovington.com
There are plenty more beloved burgers on The Northshore that cater to every palate. Let your tastebuds be your guide and it is “shore to be” love at first bite.
SPOTS
ABITA BREW PUB abitabrewpub.com
COLUMBIA STREET TAP ROOM & GRILL columbiastreettaproom.com
KY'S OLDE TOWNE BICYCLE SHOP kysoldetowne.com
LEE’S HAMBURGERS (985) 898-3440
SPOKE + BARREL facebook.com/SpokeAndBarrel
TIMES BAR & GRILL timesgrill.com
The Greyhound Pub Burger at The Greyhound
Deep Dish Dive
Local Pizzerias to Liven Up Your Dine-In, Delivery or Take-Out.
CAMELLIA CITY PIZZA
1904 Front St., Slidell (985) 641-1300 slidellpizza.com
460 Town Center Pkwy, Slidell (985) 326-5880 pizzaplatoon.com
REGINELLI'S PIZZERIA
1810 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville (985) 778-0644 reginellis.com
Camellia City Pizza
Meribo
The Pizza Man
Known for Delicious Sauces, Fresh Local Toppings and its Uniquely “Artsy” Atmosphere.
BY ROBERTA CARROW JACKSON
WHEN PAUL AND EVELYN SCHREMS
OPENED THE PIZZA MAN IN 1976, little did they know they would become the oldest dine-in restaurant on The Northshore.
It all began in 1964 when the chef-owner of Artista Pizza Kitchen in New Orleans passed his recipes on to Evelyn’s father, who promised never to open a restaurant in the city. Years later, Paul and Evelyn opened their own pizza parlor in the front of their home on Boston Street in Covington. In 1984, they moved the restaurant to its own space on Collins Blvd. where they are today. Their son Dustin runs things now, although Paul can still juggle dough balls and flip two at a time.
The most popular pizza may be The Board, which got its name from customers who would ask for “the whole board” of ingredients listed. A close second is the Wow!, so named for diners’ response to this seafood-and-artichoke combination. You can watch your pizza being tossed through picture windows to the kitchen, and the chefs like to have fun by tossing flour at the windows and drawing smiley faces on the glass.
There's a beautiful, retro jukebox, framed jigsaw puzzles and the feature: dozens of 12” pizza boxes, illustrated by accomplished local artist Suzanne King. The decorated boxes began as illustrations of songs on
When asked what’s in their delicious sauce, Paul answers, “A touch of joy.”
the jukebox and eventually included holidays, community events, football seasons and historical events. Today, hundreds of boxes are rotated to match the season, but two stay up year-round: a drawing of Puff the Magic Dragon (the most popular song in the jukebox), and an American flag tribute to 9/11, the event that motivated Dustin to leave LSU and join the Marine Corps.
The Schrems have always had a policy of consistency, quality and family. For employees, it's family first, school second, and then pizza. Quality of life is paramount. Today, they have a server on staff whose mother, uncle and aunt were all part of the team during their school years.
THE PIZZA MAN
Open for dinner six days a week (closed Tuesdays) (985) 892-9874 | the-pizza-man.com
Sip, Savor and Celebrate
Explore a Unique Blend of Music, Wine and Unforgettable Experiences.
WILD BUSH FARM + VINEYARD carries a rich history, having been known as Pontchartrain Vineyards until new owners
Monica Bourgeois and Neil Gernon acquired it in December 2021. Monica and Neil's love for wine traces back to their days in the food industry. Meeting while working at renowned New Orleans restaurants, they shared a passion for fine wines, which led them to venture into wine distribution and retail. This passion sparked a desire to craft their own unique blends to fill a need that wasn't being met in the market. In 2009, they established Vending Machine Wines, where they experimented with their own varietals. The quarantines of 2020 fostered an urge to learn more about self-sufficiency, leading to the natural next step: growing their own grapes. Charmed by Pontchartrain Vineyards' picturesque setting, with its tree-lined winding roads and vibrant green fields, they seized the opportunity to create something truly special when they discovered it was for sale.
Located in the charming rural town of Bush, Wild Bush is a 34-acre property with a tasting room offering 10 exquisite wines and the magic and warmth of an exceptional gathering space.
The rebranding to Wild Bush Farm + Vineyard paid homage to the area's natural beauty and reflected their commitment to sustainable farming, encompassing native plants, small-crop vegetables and a thriving ecosystem. Embracing innovation, Monica and Neil planted hybrid grapes developed by the viticulture program at the University of California-Davis. These grapes are specifically bred to thrive in Louisiana's humid climate, ensuring optimal growth and disease resistance.
Looking forward, Monica and Neil have ambitious plans for Wild Bush. They aspire to introduce new styles of beverages, such as ciders made from mayhaw trees and persimmon plants, and aim to cultivate dried blueberry wine from the bountiful harvest of their 1,600 blueberry bushes. Other enhancements, such as a Frisbee golf course and movie screenings, will add to the already immersive experience found on the grounds. Don’t miss the opportunity to stop in for a sip and check out event listings for Jazz'n the Vines, a seasonal concert series featuring live music, delectable cuisine from local food trucks and, of course, the vineyard's exceptional wines. Cheers!
Pet Friendly Northshore
Enjoying St. Tammany's Best Spots for Dogs and their Humans.
BY ERICA OF PET FRIENDLY NORTHSHORE AND HER FURRY FRIENDS, THE SPOTS
THE IDEA OF PET FRIENDLY NORTHSHORE came to us during the COVID outbreak. At the time, Darcy was a puppy, and we knew having a deaf dog would require socialization, but we were stuck at home. We wanted to support restaurants that were open to outdoor seating, but we also felt bad for the dogs being cooped up at home, so we set out to find what restaurants were pet friendly in our area. We thought it would be fun to travel around, take pictures and post reviews, like whether a restaurant was better suited to a small dog or was roomy for big dogs like our Nash and Rupert. Also, how can you not want to have a hearty breakfast at Abita Springs Cafe, or Boudin Eggrolls at Nan's New Orleans Cafe & Poboys in Mandeville? I've even learned to like shrimp thanks to Cilantros Mexican Cuisine in Covington!
What started out as a handful of restaurants has now grown to 80-plus, but it's not all about restaurants. It's also about supporting small businesses, events and fundraisers that are pet friendly. We work with amazing organizations like Mardi Paws and Northshore Humane Society to support the adoption of shelter animals.
PUP PRIDE
Pick up a free Visit The Northshore bandana* for your furry friend at our visitor center: 68099 Hwy 59, Mandeville, LA 70471.
*while supplies last.
We have met some amazing people since the creation of Pet Friendly Northshore—from the servers at our local restaurants who remember my Hawaiian shirts and The Spots' never-ending costumes and bandanas, to some of the most creative small business owners, crafters, dogtreat bakers and artists. They keep The Spots stylin' and even created a custom crawfish cake for them. Shout-out to Cafe Du Bone in Slidell and The Majestic Dog Boutique of Mandeville! The future of Pet Friendly Northshore is endless as we look forward to trying new restaurants, promoting small businesses and, most of all, supporting this beautiful, pet-loving Northshore.
For
more pet friendly stops, follow along on Facebook at @PetFriendlyNorthshore.
MEET
Ernest Robert
Boldly Blending Art and Life in Every Brushstroke.
Slidell Art Matters
These two artists bring startlingly original work to Slidell. Although their mediums are different, the passion to create drives them both forward.
BY BETH D'ADDONO
AS AN ARTIST, Ernest Robert doesn’t stick to a lane. What he paints is life, what he sees, what he remembers, what he feels. Although he’s only 41, Robert is an old soul, painting memories that resonate across a spectrum of ages. His work is bold, colorful, full of texture and detail. Much of it evokes the food and music of New Orleans and Louisiana.
Robert is from Algiers but moved with his wife and four children to Slidell a few years ago. “Moving here, we all have room to breathe,” said the artist, who radiates an intensity of mind and purpose.
His work is playful, rife with symbolism, evocative. His piece Breakthrough is a surrealist portrait of the hands of time, in this case a shackled hand ready to break its chains with the key to freedom almost within reach. In his children’s book Art of the Wild, Robert illustrates the animal kingdom with watercolor portraits of curious pandas and cheeky crows. His two daughters helped with the captions. A vintage Louisiana series has a pop art vibe, spotlighting familiar brands like Hubig’s Pies, Blue Runner red beans, Big Shot in the glass bottle and Schwegmann’s.
Relocating to Slidell is a chance to regain his footing, connect with his new community and continue doing what he loves most, making art. “I remember drawing as a little kid, maybe five or six,” he said. “I was one of 10, so there was always something going on around me. It was just something I had to do.”
Relocating to Slidell is a chance to regain his footing, connect with his new community and continue doing what he loves most, making art.
He’s been through tough times. The pandemic shuttered his Lower Garden District E. Robert Gallery and shut down his Terrytown barber business for 10 months, leaving him with piles of debt. “I lost a lot. The key is just to push through.”
Robert’s work unfolds on Instagram (@ernestsizzerhands), showcasing both his dreamy portraiture and his skills as a trendsetting barber. Customers can stop by to peruse art in a range of styles and prices, and/or get a stylish fade with line art cut into the sides for extra drama. In both areas, Robert pushes boundaries, creating style and art that reflect how he sees the world.
VISIT ERNEST ROBERT
The Cut Gallery
2859 Carey St., Slidell | (504) 281-7436
Instagram @ernestsizzerhands
Solange Ledwith
Mastering the Fiery Art of Glass Blowing with Grit and Grace. MEET
BLOWING GLASS IS NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART, which is one of the many reasons that artist Solange Ledwith relishes her craft.
Ledwith works with molten glass that can reach temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. From this dangerous liquid she creates gossamer Venetian-style goblets and dramatic art with bubbles of glass blown within glass for an astonishing layered effect. The shop overflows with her work, including a large cast woman’s torso draped in a fiber art bustier. There is an asymmetrical glass bowl fixed to a pedestal, glowing in gold leaf. Vases in all shapes, awash in color, line the shelves. Glassware ranges from the functionally pretty to the downright divine.
Now I’m dripping glass Jackson Pollock-style. It’s chaotic, hard to control.
Ledwith has been at it for 22 years, starting in 2002 at Chico State University in California, where she discovered her passion for glass. She moved to L.A., finishing her Master of Art degree at California State University, Fullerton. Next came an eightyear stint in the Air Force, fueling military aircraft here and overseas.
The fall of the glass determines the painting.
She loves the physicality of the work. “I’ve always been athletic, into sports and martial arts,” said the 43-year-old Slidell native. “The science and chemistry part appeals to my nerdy side.”
Her journey home started 15 years ago, when she started teaching glass blowing along the Gulf Coast, a mobile furnace in tow. In early 2020, she opened Swamp Girl Glass Blowing, her studio and shop space on Front Street.
Here she does custom work for clients, pursues her own artistic vision and teaches classes. Many of her repeat clients come from The Northshore, New Orleans, Mississippi and Alabama.
As a woman, she’s in the minority in her discipline. “It’s sweatshop work,” she said. “I’m a furnace worker. Most people don’t stick around. It’s historically just guys.”
Her most recent pieces involve dripping glass into bold, contemporary acrylic paintings. “Learning how to make a Venetian-style goblet takes so much control, a lifetime to achieve. Now I’m dripping glass Jackson Pollock-style. It’s chaotic, hard to control. The fall of the glass determines the painting. It’s like a duet, a dance with the glass.”
In Louisiana’s “Easy Escape,” Relaxing Waters Abound.
BY LAURA KINIRY
Cruising along the smooth surface of the Tchefuncte River, I felt an incredible sense of calm. We were drifting among a setting of moss-draped cypress, tupelo gum, fan-leaved palmetto trees and verdant swamplands where, every so often, a gator would lazily raise its head. As Captain Mike shared a bit of local history and offered his thoughts on the best way to prepare a freshly caught catfish (hint: it involves Cajun spices), I realized this was exactly the kind of quiet reprieve I needed.
It was February 2023, and I’d come to The Northshore as a journalist to celebrate Mardi Gras. I’d spent the last few days learning about various krewes, dining on king cake-inspired desserts, and even gearing up to ride in Slidell’s Krewe of Dionysus parade (where I’d discover that tossing out beads is an art form). But my itinerary also included a tour on Captain Mike’s 24-foot covered pontoon boat with Louisiana Tours and Adventures, and with it came a sunset of pinks and reds that reflected off the river, transforming the water into an almost-holographic display of light and motion that left me mesmerized—and snapping a ton of photos.
After two hours on the river, I had no doubts about why The Northshore is known as Louisiana’s “Easy Escape.” In fact, relaxing waters abound in St. Tammany Parish, from the vast Lake Pontchartrain to Bayou Cane, a lazy tributary on Pontchartrain’s north side that’s popular among kayakers. Whether it's cruising with Tchefuncte River Charters on its Fat Bottom Girl, a 26-foot
pontoon boat—complete with a bar, sound system and restroom—that offers a stop at any one of eight bars and eateries along its scenic route, or sunning on the beach at Fontainebleau, Louisiana’s most visited state park, The Northshore offers plenty of other water activities to whet your appetite (and mine). Here are some favorites:
Louisiana Tours and Adventures
For the ultimate water experience, Mandeville’s Delaune Sailing Charters offers private trips aboard a 42-foot sailboat with up to five of your friends. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in the “boating lifestyle” by setting sail midday or while watching an incredible sunset along the horizon. What’s more: Captain Rick, the company’s owner, hosts hands-on sailing lessons in everything from rigging to tackling. Not only can you discover the ins and outs of operating a yacht on your own, but you might also consider buying one. Delaune has featured everything from a Pearson 27 with a wing keel to an impressive Oceanis 44 for purchase on its site.
DID YOU KNOW?
Lake Pontchartrain (pictured right) is approximately 630 square miles (1,630 square kilometers) in area, making it one of the largest inland bodies of water in the United States. It's technically an estuary, not a true lake, because it connects to the Gulf of Mexico via the Rigolets strait, Chef Menteur Pass and other smaller waterways.
Canoe & Trail Adventures at The Chimes
Delaune Sailing Charters
Book a kayak from Bayou Adventure’s Fontainebleau State Park kiosk and set out exploring the waters of Lake Pontchartrain on a self-guided tour. Or enjoy a guided wetland journey along the Bogue Falaya River with Canoe & Trail Adventures, a Northshore staple for over 45 years. Kayaks To Geaux also delivers kayak rentals at several locations in St. Tammany, so that anyone can traverse the parish’s various bayous, rivers and swamps at their leisure.
Try your hand at catching speckled trout, redfish and flounder with Slidell-based fishing charter Angling Adventures of Louisiana, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like Louisiana brown pelicans and otters throughout the full-day excursion. The company’s motto is “No fish, no pay”, perfect for a novice like me. For something even a little more intrepid, join Wicked Fishing Charters in Mandeville on a “kraken hunt” to search for the monsters (alligator gar, bull redfish and bull shark). On this mostly catch-and-release adventure, it’s all about the chase.
With so much to do on The Northshore, I’m already planning my return. I just hope it involves some king cake treats to go with my time on the water.
ST. TAMMANY'S WATERWAYS
These bodies of water contribute significantly to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available in St. Tammany.
• Lake Pontchartrain
• Abita River
• Bayou Bonfouca
• Bayou Cane
• Bayou Lacombe
• Bogue Falaya River
• Pearl River
• Tchefuncte River
Dr. Wagner's Honey Island Swamp Tours
EDITOR'S TIP
Packing List for a Day on the Boat
Camera and binoculars
Sunglasses and a secure-fitting hat
Sunscreen and bug spray
Comfortable and practical boat shoes
Light jacket for cooler days and evenings
Waterproof bag for valuables
Refreshments, including water and easy snacks
Fishing license if you are planning to fish
Properly fitted personal flotation device. Check with your charter captain on sizes already onboard.
Discover our Communities
BY CARROLL DEVINE ST. TAMMANY LITERARY ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2023
MAYBE IT’S SOMETHING IN THE WATER that gives Abita Springs its flavor—its creativity, quirkiness and affinity for nature—everywhere evident. Indeed, the town’s artesian spring or well water, with its reputed healing powers, has long drawn vacationers and settlers alike.
Whatever the cause, the town generously shares the benefits. Annually, musicians who typically perform in the streets for tips are
Abita Springs
celebrated at the ever-popular outdoor Busker Festival. Another widely favored event is the Whole Town Garage Sale in March. Just imagine the treasures that await you. And all seriousness aside, a visit to the Abita Mystery House, a sort of repository of tongue-incheek weirdness, is worthwhile.
A stop on the unspoiled Tammany Trace, Abita Springs has a Victorian style pavilion with a park and playground at its center, next to the Abita River.
You can feel the town’s vitality at the nearby Abita Café and the Abita Brew Pub, at the Trailhead Museum and at the Town Hall, which hosts the Abita Opry in spring and fall. At the Abita Brewing Company’s tours and tastings, you can learn about the fascinating process of beer making.
And on a hike through nearby Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve, among the beauty of the longleaf pines, you'll be refreshed.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
ABITA BREW PUB 72011 Holly St. (985) 892-5837
ABITA FARMERS MARKET 22056 LA-59
ABITA SPRINGS CAFÉ 22132 Level St. (985) 400-5025
ARTIGUE’S ABITA MARKET 22069 LA-59 (985) 892-7300
MAMA D’S PIZZA & MORE 22054 LA-59 (985) 809-0308
MAPLE STREET BAKERY 72066 Maple St. (985) 327-5554
Abita Brew Pub
Covington
JUST AS THE NAMES ABITA, TCHEFUNCTE AND BOGUE FALAYA, said together, have a rhythmic beat, so too does the vibrant city where these rivers converge. Covington, over 200 years old, is a place where the past and present hold hands, and nature and art of every kind are best friends. Hear the local beat at downtown clubs, like the Columbia Street Tap Room and Encore Bar & Grill. Enjoy free Rockin’ the Rails concerts weekly in April and October at the Covington Trailhead, or music once a month, March to October, at the Columbia Street Landing, both the
riverfront stage and the gazebo, and Saturday mornings at the bustling Farmers Market
Catch the art beat in the city’s many galleries, including Armbruster Artworks, SALADINO, Rutland Street Gallery and Dead Tree Gallery
Visit St. Tammany Art Association’s exhibitions of established and emerging artists’ work, and find great buys at the seasonal Art Markets. Visit Southern Hotel, a work of art itself, which displays seasonal art installations. Also, see how easily the past joins the conversation as you visit H.J. Smith & Sons General Store and Museum—there since 1876—now right in the middle of happening boutiques, restaurants and cafes.
Go half a mile north on 21st Avenue and look carefully to spot the enchanting “twig house,” a unique hundred-year-old sanctuary structure, artfully and obviously
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
ABITA ROASTING CO. 1011 Village Walk (985) 246-3345
BOULEVARD AMERICAN BISTRO 70340 LA-21 (985) 326-2121
COFFEE RANI 234-A Lee Lane (985) 893-6158
COLUMBIA STREET TAP ROOM AND GRILL
434 N. Columbia St. (985) 898-0899
CURED. ON COLUMBIA
415 N. Columbia St. (985) 893-0355
DEL PORTO RISTORANTE
501 E. Boston St. (985) 875-1006
DICHRISTINA’S ITALIAN AND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
810 N. Columbia St. (985) 875-0160
ENGLISH TEA ROOM
734 E. Rutland St. (985) 898-3988
GALLAGHER’S GRILL
509 S. Tyler St. (985) 892-9992
HAVEN COFFEE & COCKTAILS
534 N. New Hampshire St. (985) 352-2644
lovingly made from intertwined heart pine knots. The fairy-type house with a dirt floor and see-through walls has prompted many legends. See it and you may be tempted, like others, to invent your own story about its mysterious purpose. But there’s no mystery about why a magnificent live oak stands in the middle of Boston Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. When the street was constructed, the oak was in the way, so the builders just built the road respectfully in a semi-circle around the treasured tree.
LOLA
517 N. New Hampshire St. (985) 892-4992
MARCELLO’S
324 E. Boston St. (985) 400-5668
MATTINA BELLA
421 E. Gibson St. (985) 892-0708
MERIBO
326 Lee Lane (985) 302-5533
NEW ORLEANS FOOD AND SPIRITS
208 Lee Lane (985) 875-0432
TAVI
330 N. New Hampshire St. (985) 200-2045
THE CHIMES COVINGTON 19130 W. Front St. (985) 892-5396
THE DAKOTA
310 E. Boston St. (985) 892-3712
THE GLORIETTE
428 E. Boston St. (985) 202-8090
THE GREYHOUND
705 E. Boston St. (985) 400-5828
VALENCIA
315 N. Vermont St. (985) 900-2151
The Gloriette
Bogue Falaya Park
Lacombe
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
WITH THE LAID-BACK AND WELCOMING WAYS OF ITS RESIDENTS, Lacombe exemplifies a town comfortable in its own skin. Even the landscape, peppered with centuries-old, magnificent live oaks, is a gentle reminder to embrace time and place.
Cultural history plays a significant role in the town, with sites like the captivating 1923 stucco building of Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel Shrine and its meditation garden. Visitors are welcome, and traditions, like the Creole candle-lighting ceremony of All Saints Day, are observed. The rustic Bayou Lacombe Museum, once a two-room schoolhouse, distills and brings to life both Choctaw culture and Lacombe’s early history.
Simultaneously, the town embraces a bright future, as embodied in the Northshore Technical Community College. In a dynamic environment, students can pursue a wide range of workforce training programs. The campus also offers a cuttingedge space as an event venue.
If learning about and experiencing nature is on your agenda, you might explore the fascinating 15,000-acre Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. Its visitor center in Lacombe offers educational and nature-focused programs as well. Lacombe is an easy drive from other Northshore communities, but a fun way to arrive there is by bicycling down the Tammany Trace
ALICE’S RESTAURANT
28505 U.S. Hwy 190 (985) 882-3888
BAYOU STUF
28178 U.S. Hwy 190 (985) 218-9277
DA CRAB TRAP
28152 U.S. Hwy 190 (985) 218-9700
JANIE BROWN’S RESTAURANT
27207 U.S. Hwy 190 (985) 882-7201
SAL & JUDY’S RESTAURANT
27491 U.S. Hwy 190 (985) 882-9443
WHITE HOUSE COFFEE AND CREAMERY
61700 LA-434 Ste. A (985) 218-9580
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
Madisonville
MADISONVILLE IS GRACIOUSNESS personified, with her moss-dressed live oaks, gingerbread-trimmed front porches and come-hither looks. She’s not just a pretty face, though. She can help with your escape from the mundane, offering places you’ve never been before as you explore the remote reaches of the meandering Tchefuncte River on a pontoon boat. View the alluring 1837 landmark lighthouse that stands at the river’s mouth, currently only accessible by boat. Knowledgeable captains with the right stuff from Tchefuncte River Charters or Louisiana Tours and Adventures are ready to guide and entertain you. You can learn the town’s fascinating history at Maritime Museum
Louisiana, located on the former site of Jahncke Shipyard, where 2,200 workers built wooden ships for the U.S. Navy in 1900. Let yourself be astonished by the museum’s expertly displayed dioramas, artifacts and other exhibits.
Madisonville also easily accommodates as you do your own thing, like enjoying a meal at one of the Water Street restaurants or gaining a new life perspective as you loll on the river’s bank. And, a short ride east down Highway 22, Fairview-Riverside State Park on the Tchefuncte offers picnicking, camping, fishing and all the elements you need to complete your escape.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
ABITA ROASTING CO.
504 Water St. (985) 246-3340
CHERRYBOMB COFFEE
306 Covington St. (985) 792-7121
EMPATACO
101 LA-22 (985) 792-7157
KEITH YOUNG’S STEAKHOUSE 165 LA-21 (985) 845-9940
MORTON'S BOILED SEAFOOD & BAR
702 Water St. (985) 845-4970
REELS WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL
100 Marina Del Ray Drive (985) 206-5390
TCHEFUNCTE’S AND THE ANCHOR
407 St. Tammany St. (985) 323-4800
THE UGLY DOG COASTAL KITCHEN
708 Water St. (985) 792-7092
TRIPLE NICKEL GRILL
305 Covington St. (985) 792-7292
Maritime Museum Louisiana
Mandeville
Fontainebleau State Park
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A PLACE that blends the feel of a small, intimate town with a coastal resort, Mandeville could be it. Since the early 1900s, daily steamers brought visitors to Mandeville looking for entertainment and crowd-weariness relief. You'll still find that kind of place today.
Discover it in the tree-shaded streets of Old Mandeville, in the friendliness of Girod Street's neighborhood restaurants, boutiques, art and antique shops, and at the Saturday morning Trailhead Community Market, where artisans, growers and producers sell their wares while musicians play on stage for free.
At the same Trailhead amphitheater, for six Friday nights each spring and fall, find Mandeville Live!, a series of free concerts.
Also, each spring and fall on scheduled Saturdays, feel the special vibe as live music of various genres is performed in the iconic 1895 wooden building housing the Dew Drop Jazz and Social Club. You might even dance. Not far away, and since the 1920s, sits the bar and live music dance hall known as Ruby’s Roadhouse. The style is funky, eclectic and unplugged.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
BOSCO’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
2040 LA-59 Ste. 3 (985) 624-5066
CAFÉ LYNN
2600 Florida St. (985) 624-9007
CRAZY PIG SOUTHERN KITCHEN
4700 LA-22 Ste. 1 & 2 (985) 792-7900
DUMAN ARTISAN KITCHEN
821 Girod St. (985) 231-7663
Mandeville Lakefront
For the ultimate in “unplugged”, you might want to meet the Seven Sisters Oak. At 65 feet tall, with a girth of 40 feet and an estimated age between 500-1,200 years, she has been President of the Live Oak Society since 1968. She lives on a quiet street in the Lewisburg neighborhood. You can’t miss her. A few miles down the road you can experience Fontainebleau State Park. You can picnic, hike, fish, camp or play on the sandy beach or on the kids’ splash pad. Then, you can head back to the marina on Lakeshore Drive and charter a sailboat from Delaune Sailing Charters and even take lessons. It could happen.
RIPS ON THE LAKE 1917 Lakeshore Drive (985) 727-2829
SPOKE + BARREL
639 Girod St. (985) 612-1828
THE BARLEY OAK
2101 Lakeshore Drive (985) 727-7420
Slidell
Old Town Slidell Soda Shop
NATURE AND GOOD TIMES ARE never far apart or far away in Slidell. There are festivals, live music with “gotta-move dancing”, good food, play, adventure, history and serenity.
In the city’s expansive and modern Heritage Park, which kisses the shore of Bayou Bonfouca for a quarter mile, you’ll find a walking trail, picnic table shelters, a playground, a splash pad and a boat launch at the marina end of the park. Better still, an amphitheater stands ready for the Bayou Jam concert series in September and October, and screenings of holiday movies during Slidell's Bayou Christmas each December.
If pickleball is your game, you’ll find courts open to the public at both John Slidell Park and Fritchie Park. You can’t miss trying local cuisine at some of the restaurants and cafes. Have fun exploring historic buildings or browsing shops in Olde Towne Slidell. On Saturdays, the Camellia City Market is the place to stock up on homegrown produce, prepared foods, arts, crafts and specialty items—and to hear live music. See nature close up, following a wooden boardwalk through the nearby Camp Salmen Nature Park on Bayou Liberty. Besides having a playground, amphitheater and pavilions, the park is home
to the Camp Salmen House, a rare example of 1830s-era French Creole cottage architecture.
Take a ride on the wilder side on a Honey Island Swamp boat tour through this permanently protected wildlife preserve. Cajun Encounters Tours or Dr. Wagner’s Swamp Tours can take you into the pristine freshwater swamp for a mesmerizing experience.
Yes, Slidell has a bit of everything, including drama—the good kind—like you’ll see in productions at Slidell Little Theatre and Cutting Edge Theater.
CULINARY HOT SPOTS
CRAWFORD’S 1-STOP 715 Old Spanish Trail (985) 445-1199
EIGHT60 WINE WHISKEY BITES 860 Oak Harbor Blvd. (985) 259-4051
GILLIGIL’S ISLAND
4826 Pontchartrain Drive (985) 201-8824
JOE'S ITALIAN RISTORANTE 300 Oak Harbor Blvd. (985) 326-8637
KENNEY SEAFOOD, INC. 400 Pontchartrain Drive (985) 643-2717
KY’S OLDE TOWNE BICYCLE SHOP 2267 Carey St. (985) 641-1911
NATHAN’S RESTAURANT 36440 Old Bayou Liberty Road (985) 643-0443
NOLA SOUTHERN GRILL 1375 Gause Blvd. (985) 201-8200
OLDE TOWNE PIZZA CO. 285 Cousin St. (985) 445-1273
PALMETTOS ON THE BAYOU 1901 Bayou Lane (985) 643-0050
QUE RICO! CUBAN CAFÉ 2170 Gause Blvd. W. (985) 201-8215
SOUTHSIDE CAFÉ
3154 Pontchartrain Drive (985) 643-6133
Antique Umbrella Alley
Northshore Soundtrack
There’s a Place for Everyone to Find their Groove.
BY ROBERTA CARROW JACKSON
THE NORTHSHORE IS A GREAT place for fans of live music, with a diverse and vibrant music scene of up-and-coming local acts, established musicians and touring acts performing at a variety of venues—from shady riverside stages, cool nightclubs and cozy coffeehouses to auditoria with stateof-the-art sound systems. Whether you prefer dancing with the crowds at a food-and-music festival, a family-friendly, free concert amid a bustling downtown or a transcendent listening room experience at an historic venue, we’ve got you covered.
Artists perform a variety of genres, too, owing to the varied populations in and around St. Tammany Parish, especially New Orleans, with its world-renowned music scene. Crosspollination among musicians around southeast Louisiana and across the Deep South dates from the birth of jazz, when early greats like Buddy Bolden and Louis Armstrong played the Dew Drop Jazz Hall (his mother lived just around the corner). That continues to this day, as numerous musicians sit in with bands beside their own, bringing their influences to the table, crafting something new before an eager audience and carrying that experience with them to their next show. The result: a diversity of sound to satisfy listeners of rhythm and blues, funk, Americana, indie rock, traditional jazz, bluegrass, pop country, folk,
metal, hip-hop and more. When coming to St. Tammany via the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, a 24-mile jaunt, it’s good to have a soundtrack to accompany your trip across the world’s longest continuous bridge over open water. So, we’ve put together playlists for your ride. Our mixes feature recording artists who have lived and performed on The Northshore, from internationally renowned artists to up-and-coming storytellers who include our venues on their national and regional tours.
We kick off this themed road trip with The Deslondes’ blend of twangy, ‘50s-style rock ‘n roll, followed by a track from the band’s drummer, Sam Doores, from his self-titled debut. You’ll hear songs by local rising stars Paul Childers and Kristin Diable alongside a timeless local hit by Jon Cleary, whom Bonnie Raitt called “the 8th wonder of the world”. Blues icon Tab Benoit trades licks with Brian Stoltz of The Meters, Joe Bonamassa lends his ax to Marc Broussard’s anthemic blues song, Marc “Johnny Sketch” Paradis and his funky Dirty Notes will have you dancing in your seat, and a sultry Serabee paints a joyful portrait of Christmastime in Louisiana. We wrap with a lovely piano piece by John Autin backed by two of New Orleans’ most in-demand artists, perfect accompaniment for coasting under the swaying Spanish moss of Mandeville’s live oaks.
24-MILE PLAYLIST: CAUSEWAY TO THE NORTHSHORE
“Less Honkin’ More Tonkin’” from The Deslondes by The Deslondes (2015)
“Other Side Of Town” from Sam Doores by Sam Doores feat. Alynda Segarra (2020)
“Driving In Your Car” from Create Your Own Mythology by Kristin Diable (2016)
“When You Get Back” Debut by Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen (2002)
“Take It All In” from The Green Chapter EP by Paul Childers (2020)
“Break Me” from 2,000 Days by Johnny Sketch and The Dirty Notes (2013)
“Baby Blue” from The Sea Saint Sessions by Tab Benoit feat. Brian Stoltz (2003)
“Driving Wheel” from S.O.S. 4: Blues For Your Soul by Marc Broussard feat. Joe Bonamassa (2023)
“Bayou Christmas” from Bayou Christmas (Single) by Serabee (2023)
“Poinciana” from Piano Town by John Autin feat. Herlin Riley and Roland Guerin (2011)
