December 2021-January 2022 Issue of Inside New Orleans

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‘TIS THE SEASON! •

READERS’ FAVORITES • CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

DECEMBER 2021-JANUARY 2022 VOL. 8, NO. 6

December 2021-January 2022

Vol. 8, No. 6

Publisher Jonée Daigle-Ferrand –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Editor

Leah Draffen

Art Director

Brad Growden

Contributors

Leslie Cardé

Lorin Gaudin

Anna Tusa

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Account Executives

Sarah Daigle

Amalie Murphy

Genevieve Daigle-Buring Poki Hampton Summer Tallant Trish Trahan

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Executive Assistant

Summer Tallant

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email InsideNewOrleansMag@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Contribute Please send items for Inside Scoop to ScoopINOLA@gmail.com.

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On the cover

Artist Christy Boutte.

Find more on page 12.

Visit InsideNewOrleansMagazine.com to view our online issue with direct links to our advertisers’ sites.

INSIDE NEW ORLEANS is published bi-monthly (February, April, June, August, October, December) by JBL Publishing, LLC, PO Box 7603, Metairie, LA 70010-7603 as a means of communication and information for greater New Orleans, Louisiana. Bulk Postage paid - New Orleans, LA. Copy­right ©2020 by JBL Publishing, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent of publisher. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork. Inside New Orleans Magazine is created using the page 20 Adobe Creative Suite on Apple Macintosh computers.

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contents table of

‘Tis the Season!

Page 24

Departments

10 Publisher’s Note 11 Contributors

60 IN the Kitchen

Oyster Patties

62 Drinks with Anna

Dreaming of Christmas Markets 50 IN Better Health and Holiday Cocktails

with Jennifer Williams 64 Haute Plates 54 New Year, New You 66 Last Sip Resources

Wetlands Sake 56 INside Peek 16 INside Scoop

page 39

59 Last Bite

The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel page 34

Features 12 Painting Out Loud

Cover Artist Christy Boutte 24 ‘Tis the Season!

Shopping and Dining Around the City 30 Readers’ Favorite Results 34 Behind the Scenes at Celebration in the Oaks 39 Women’s Jewelry 40 Holiday Gift Guide

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page 60

Publisher’s Note

by Jonée Daigle-Ferrand

‘Tis the season to shop local!

Every year I love to shop from within Inside New Orleans magazine’s pages to find the best holiday gifts for my family and friends. I would love to see all of my readers do the same to help support so many amazing local businesses.

I am really excited about our cover artist this month, Christy Boutte. The minute I met her, I knew that she would have the perfect piece of art for the December 2021-January 2022 cover. From the red Christmas colors to the New Orleansthemed ornaments and tree dripping with Mardi Gras beads, it just felt perfect for a New Orleans holiday season. Join us for a Meet the Artist Holiday Party on Thursday, December 9, at Art by Christy Gallery on Magazine Street from 6-8pm.

I feel blessed this holiday season to spend time with my family and friends, and I pray for those who have lost loved ones this year. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Have a wonderful holiday season and remember to shop local, dine local and support Inside New Orleans’ advertisers.

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Contributors Our contributors give Inside New Orleans its voice, its personality and its feel. Here we are proud to highlight a some of them so that you can put a face with a name and get to know them.

Leslie Cardé

Veteran journalist Leslie Cardé began her career reporting for NPR in Los Angeles. From there, she landed in New Orleans as an anchor/health and science editor before moving on to anchor three hours of daily financial news and host an entertainment show for CNBC. She’s reported from the Middle East for CNN, worked as a producer and narrator for E! Entertainment and wrote, directed and produced the award-winning documentary America Betrayed. Leslie currently writes for The New Orleans Advocate and Los Angeles Magazine.

She is also a producer/reporter for CBS Newspath. In this issue, Leslie goes behind the scenes of Celebration in the Oaks on page 34, and pens IN Better Health on page 50.

Anna Tusa

Anna Tusa is the Director of Operations for Briquette, the Briquette Wine Room and New Orleans Creole Cookery. On page 62, Anna takes us on a holiday drinking-around-the-world tour.

Other Voices: Frank L. Aymami, III, Boone Clemmons, Leah Draffen, T. Charles Erickson, Melanie Langteau, Lorin Gaudin and Thomas B. Growden.

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Painting Out Loud

by Leah Draffen

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CONSIDER OUR HANDS. Most of us use our hands to do just about everything in our day-to-day lives. Artist Christy Boutte uses her hands in bit more powerful ways—to finger paint, and to speak in sign language.

Spinal meningitis left Christy profoundly deaf at 13 months old. And today, her paintings are just as much a form of communication as they are a form of selfexpression. “I use my hands to express myself through my second language of signing, and finger painting,” Christy says. “Being deaf, I feel that my art breaks down the

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communication barrier between myself and the hearing world. While I can read lips and chat, my art is like an ice breaker. It speaks my voice.”

It was in high school that Christy realized her natural ability to draw and create. She knew then that she wanted to be an artist. “Art gave me the self-confidence and strength to push through academically. As a deaf student in a mainstream environment, school was tough, but art class was my happy place. It still is!” Christy went on to become the first deaf graduate from Ringling College of Art and Design in 2000.

Fresh out of college and a starving artist, Christy traded her first original painting for rent. She earned a living and inspired young students as an Art Director at a Montessori School in Austin while continuing to paint and sell her pieces.

Three short years later, she was asked to create her first poster for the 2003 Gretna Heritage Festival. That poster opened the door to her nearly two-decade career as a festival poster artist, creating over 50 posters for various festivals in Louisiana and across the country. A Gretna native, Christy captures the playful spirit of our local traditions, wildlife and architecture in her paintings.

Christy’s oldest and most popular series is her Mardi Gras Tree, like the one on our cover. She says, “A friend told me a while back, ‘New Orleans is so fabulous, even the trees wear jewelry.’ I use that a lot when talking about them. The tree roots represent how we New Orleanians >>

photos: MELANIE LANGTEAU MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover Artist Christy Boutte

photos: MELANIE LANGTEAU MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY

are so deeply rooted in our culture.” Her Petunia the Pelican is also popular with Christy’s collectors.

Petunia can be seen dressed in all sorts of professional garb and cleverly placed headwear.

She is so well-loved that Christy chose her for the Magazine Street gallery storefront.

Christy’s subjects often come from her experiences and feelings. “One night out with friends, the waiter asked if I would like a complimentary glass of house wine. I immediately envisioned an old shotgun house built into a bottle of wine. That was how my House Wine and Home Brew paintings came to life. We live in such a vibrant city with inspiration at every turn.”

The idea or inspiration is only half the fun for Christy. She says: “The act of painting brings me love, joy, peace, comfort and healing. Sharing my art with the world brings me the kind of happiness that feeds my heart and soul. Knowing that my art makes people smile makes my heart flutter.”

While painting has always brought Christy joy, her method of doing so has changed over her long career. In the early 2000s, Christy used oils and a palette knife to create thickly laid pieces. But as the market became saturated with this style, Christy decided to stretch her creative wings and grow into a new style of her own.

She reflects: “With so many palette knife paintings and comparisons from one artist to another, I fell into darkness. I became frustrated and lost my passion as an artist. One day, I walked into my studio, sat on my artist’s stool, and became lost in deep thought. As I focused inward, I began to breathe in all the experiences and discoveries throughout my career. I asked myself,

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how do I return to that unique place that sets me apart from other artists?

“I gathered materials that I had used in many stages of my art education and career then combined them an entirely new style that I am so in love with. I thought, ‘I use sign language to speak, why not use my hands to speak volumes through my art?’”

Christy quickly discovered that painting with her hands came more naturally and beautifully than it did with brushes and palette knives.

Currently, Christy continues to use her fingers to paint with unconventional mediums and materials.

Her latest favorites are chalk paint and finished plywood. She is currently working on Petunia’s Fashion Week on Magazine Street, which will debut in December at the Uptown Gallery.

Next on Christy’s art journey, she hopes to tackle sculpture. Something tells me that she will be a natural. She concludes, “I want viewers to feel that their hearts are at peace when they look at my art. I want them to smile and chuckle. If it speaks to them and they connect, I have done my job.”

Meet Christy on December 9, 6-8pm at Art by Christy Gallery located at 4616 Magazine Street. Art

by Christy Studio is located at 603 Lafayette Street in Gretna. artbychristy.com. Follow along Facebook and Instagram @artbychristy.

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INSIDE

Hadestown Dec 28-31, Jan 1-2 Hadestown. The winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best New Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, Hadestown will come New Orleans’ Saenger Theatre. Presented by the New Orleans Theatre Association, Hadestown is part of the Hancock Whitney Broadway in New Orleans 2021-2022 season.

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. BroadwayInNewOrleans.com.

December

1 SOSUSU’s Five Year Anniversary Celebration. Celebrate SOSUSU’s anniversary with food, drinks and giveaways.

3427 Magazine St. 309-5026. sosusu. myshopify.com.

1 St. Scholastica Academy Dove Market.

Pop-up and online holiday shopping.

St. Scholastica Academy Gym, 122 S. Massachusetts St, Covington. 4-8pm. ssacad.org.

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1-24 Réveillon Lunch and Dinner.

Galatoire’s Réveillon menu features creations by Executive Chef Phillip Lopez alongside the classics, crafted to celebrate the centuries-old New Orleans tradition of Réveillon. Galatoire’s, 209 Bourbon St. 5252021. galatoires.com.

1-31 Holiday Tea. Afternoon tea with a festive holiday twist. Le Salon at Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St. 522-1994.

windsorcourthotel.com.

1-23, 26-30 Réveillon Dinner. The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St. 522-1994. windsorcourthotel.com.

1-Jan 2 Carousel Gardens Experience.

An all access pass to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, which features 18 rides guaranteed to put a smile on your face, and the festive outdoor bar in the Botanical Garden, where you can share a holiday

photo: T. CHARLES ERICKSON

delight under the twinkling lights with your loved ones. 7 Victory Ave. Sunday-Thursday, 6-11pm; Friday-Saturday, 5pm-12am. celebrationintheoaks.com/experience/ carousel-gardens-experience.

1-Jan 2 Celebration in the Oaks Driving Tour. City Park’s largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks presented by Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, is the New Orleans holiday family tradition. >> D e ce m be r 2 0 2 1 - Jan uary 2 0 22

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Inside Scoop

This incredible light festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and beautification year-round. Make memories with your loved ones in City Park this holiday season. New Orleans City Park, 2 Friederich Ave. Closed Dec 24 and 31. neworleanscitypark.com/celebration-in-the-oaks.

1-Jan 23 Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow.

Prospect New Orleans’ 2021 iteration, Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow, is scheduled to open across the city in stages from late October to mid- November and will remain on view until January 23, 2022. Prospect New Orleans’s Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow is curated by Naima J. Keith and Diana Nawi, the Susan Brennan Artistic Directors of Prospect.5, and will feature the work of 51 artists and artist collectives in museums, cultural spaces, and public sites throughout New Orleans.

ProspectNewOrleans.org.

3-5, 10-12 Cinderella. The new Broadway adaptation of the classic musical. This contemporary take on the classic tale features Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” alongside an updated, humorous, and romantic libretto by Douglas Carter Beane.

Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Drive,

Metairie. jpas.org.

4 Merry Market. Celebrate the holidays with Longue Vue House and Gardens. Outdoors art market, photos with Santa (additional pricing through Loupe Photography), seasonal music and crafts, and tea and Holiday treats at Edith & Edgar’s Museum Café. 7 Bamboo Rd. 1-4pm. 4885488.

4 Improvisations: The New Orleans Jazz Museum Gala. The Gala will feature an exciting mix of some of the finest local and national musical talents, spectacular New Orleans cuisine, a selection of coveted auction items, and a dazzling Sound Collage installation — all on the grounds of the New Orleans Jazz Museum. 400 Esplanade Ave. Patron party, 7-8pm; gala, 8-11pm. nolajazzmuseum.org.

4-5 Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Show and Sale. The Bead Shop, 4612 Magazine St. 10am-5pm. jenniferponson.com.

4-5 Santa! Meet Santa and enjoy the holidays at Judy at the Rink, 2727 Prytania St. 891-7018. judyattherink.com.

4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 22-24 Teddy Bear Tea 2021. Nothing marks the holidays like Teddy Bear Tea. Children of all ages have been coming for decades to kindle the Christmas Spirit, honor family traditions and, in turn pass them on to their children. The Roosevelt New Orleans, 130 Roosevelt Way. therooseveltneworleans.com.

4, 11, 18 Champagne Saturdays. Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, 8138 Hampson St. symmetryjewelers.com.

5, 12, 19, 26 Jazz Brunch. Broussard’s Restaurant, 819 Conti St. 581-3866. broussards.com.

7 Sips & Slices: Cocktail and Pie Pairing with Bywater Bakery. Pie and cocktail pairing hosted by Sazerac House cocktail experts and Bywater Bakery. This tasting features items that include nuts and nut products.

The Sazerac House, 101 Magazine St. 4-5pm. For tickets, visit sazerachouse.com.

9 Inside New Orleans Holiday Meet the Artist Party.

Meet cover artist Christy Boutte. Art by Christy Gallery, 4616 Magazine St. 6-8pm. insideneworleansmagazine. com.

10 Holiday Spirited Dinner. The dinner will feature five courses paired with a festive hand-crafted cocktail prepared by Anna Tusa. Briquette, 701 S Peters St. 7pm. $125 per person all inclusive. Reservations can be made on OpenTable or through Anna, 460-3886.

11 Early Childhood Open House. Ursuline Academy, 2635 State St. go.uanola.org.

11 Royd Anderson Book Signing. Meet Royd Anderson and get your copy of New Orleans Disasters signed. After the book signing, there will be a screening of The Luling

Ferry Disaster documentary East Regional Library, 160 W Campus Dr, Destrehan. 10am-12pm. facebook.com/ neworleansdisasters.

11 Running of the Santas. Enjoy drink specials, open bars, live music and of course the big “run,” from the North Pole to the South Pole. Manning’s, 519 Fulton St. 3-8pm. runningofthesantas.com.

11-12 Preservation Resource Center’s Holiday Home Tour: Video Series and Art & Garden Tour. Join PRC Executive Director Danielle Del Sol as she steps inside FOUR exquisite houses around New Orleans. Her interviews with the homeowners will explore the gorgeous art collections, historic architectural details and masterful interior design of these private homes in the French Quarter, Uptown and Faubourg St. John. Working with some of the city’s most talented landscape architects and artists, these lush Garden District landscapes will be stunning holiday showcases filled with custom-designed, larger-than-life art installations. For pricing, times and details, prcno.org/event/holiday-home-tour-2021.

13-March 31 Embrace your Winter at The Pontchartrain Hotel. For stays December 13 to March 31, enjoy complimentary valet parking. Two-night minimum length of stay required on Saturday nights; some >>

Inside Scoop black-out dates apply. The Pontchartrain Hotel, 2031 St. Charles Ave. 800-708-6652. thepontchartrainhotel.com.

14 Cheers to Cheese: Holiday Gatherings. Cheese and cocktail pairing hosted by Sazerac House cocktail experts and St. James Cheese Company. The Sazerac House, 101 Magazine St. 4-5:30pm. For tickets, visit sazerachouse.com.

14-19 CATS. Featuring new sound design, direction and choreography for a new generation — experience CATS for the first time as it begins a new life, or let it thrill you all over again!

Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. BroadwayInNewOrleans.com.

18 French Quarter Museum Association Holiday Market.

For one weekend only, vendors will be set up in several FQMA museum courtyards throughout the French Quarter! This event is free and open to the public. Locations include: 1850 House Museum Store, Beauregard-Keyes House, Hermann-Grima House, The Historic New Orleans Collection and New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. hgghh.org/events/2021-fqma-market.

18-19 The Nutcracker. Based on the E.T.A. Hoffmann fantasy story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, the ballet is a magical Christmas Eve journey about a girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life. Jefferson Performing Arts Center, 6400 Airline Drive, Metairie. jpas.org.

21 Drink & Learn: Creole Holiday Traditions. New Orleans history siscussion and cocktail demo hosted by drinks historian Elizabeth Pearce. The Sazerac House, 101 Magazine St. 4-5:30pm. For tickets, visit sazerachouse.com.

24 Christmas Eve Prix Fixe Dinner. The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St. 5-9pm. 522-1994. windsorcourthotel.com.

24, 31 Christmas Eve and New Years Eve at Briquette.

701 S Peters St. Reservations can be made on OpenTable or 302-7496.

24, 31 Christmas Eve and New Years Eve at New Orleans Creole Cookery. 510 Toulouse St. Reservations can be made on OpenTable or 524-9632.

25 Christmas Day Prix Fixe Lunch and Dinner. The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St. 11:30am-3pm; 5-9pm. 522-1994. windsorcourthotel.com.

28-31, Jan 1-2 Hadestown. The winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best New Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, Hadestown will come New Orleans’ Saenger Theatre. Presented by the New Orleans Theatre Association, Hadestown is part of the Hancock Whitney Broadway in New Orleans 2021-2022 season. Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. BroadwayInNewOrleans.com.

31 New Year’s Eve Prix Fixe Dinner. The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St. 5-10pm. 522-1994. windsorcourthotel.com.

January

1 Allstate Sugar Bowl. Allstatesugarbowl.org.

1-2 Carousel Gardens Experience. An all access pass to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, which features 18 rides guaranteed to put a smile on your face, and the festive outdoor bar in the Botanical Garden, where you can share a holiday 20

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delight under the twinkling lights with your loved ones. 7 Victory Ave. Sunday-Thursday, 6-11pm; Friday-Saturday, 5pm-12am. celebrationintheoaks.com/experience/ carousel-gardens-experience.

1-2 Celebration in the Oaks Driving Tour.

City Park’s largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks presented by Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, is the New Orleans holiday family tradition. This incredible light festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and beautification year-round. Make memories with your loved ones in City Park this holiday season. New Orleans City Park, 2 Friederich Ave. Closed Dec 24 and 31. neworleanscitypark.com/celebration-in-theoaks.

1-2 Hadestown. The winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best New Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, Hadestown will come New Orleans’ Saenger Theatre.

Presented by the New Orleans Theatre Association, Hadestown is part of the Hancock Whitney Broadway in New Orleans 2021-2022 season. Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. BroadwayInNewOrleans.com.

1-23 Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow. Prospect New Orleans’ 2021 iteration, Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow, is scheduled to open across the city in stages from late October to midNovember and will remain on view until January 23, 2022. Prospect New Orleans’s Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow is curated by Naima J. Keith and Diana Nawi, the Susan Brennan Artistic Directors of Prospect.5, and will feature the work of 51 artists and artist collectives in museums, cultural spaces, and public sites throughout New Orleans. ProspectNewOrleans.org.

1-March 31 Embrace your Winter at The Pontchartrain Hotel. For stays December 13 to March 31, enjoy complimentary valet parking. Two-night minimum length of stay required on Saturday nights; some blackout dates apply. The Pontchartrain Hotel, 2031 St. Charles Ave. 800-708-6652. thepontchartrainhotel.com.

2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Jazz Brunch. Broussard’s Restaurant, 819 Conti St. 581-3866. broussards.com.

6-9 An Homage to Josephine Baker.

Thomas Cipullo’s Josephine and a >> world premiere performance from D e ce m be r 2 0 2 1 - Jan uary 2 0 22

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the Marigny Opera Ballet. Marigny Opera House, 725 St. Ferdinand St. 529-3000.

NewOrleansOpera.org.

8, 15, 22, 29 Champagne Saturdays.

Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, 8138 Hampson St. symmetryjewelers.com.

Jan 22 Tango Fire. Launching on January 22, 2022, NOBA begins the season with global phenomenon The Tango Fire Company of Buenos Aires’ Tango Fire, the world’s leading Tango company. As one of the world’s most popular dance forms, this exhilarating dance spectacular melds rawness and sophistication with the seductive and sultry, mesmerizing audiences every step of the way. Tango Fire is accompanied by a live ensemble consisting of four of Argentina’s finest young musicians.

8pm. nobadance.com.

Looking Ahead

Feb 1-March 31 Embrace your Winter at The Pontchartrain Hotel. For stays December 13 to March 31, enjoy complimentary valet parking. Two-night minimum length of stay required on Saturday nights; some black-out dates apply. The Pontchartrain Hotel, 2031 St. Charles Ave. 800-708-6652. thepontchartrainhotel.com.

March 12 Ballet Hispánico. Audience favorite Ballet Hispánico launches their national tour with a return to New Orleans and marks their 50th anniversary debut performance of Doña Perón. nobadance. com.

April 1-2 Hogs for the Cause. Hogs for the Cause event and fundraising successes have made it possible to broaden the mission to include building Hogs Houses, a place for the most critical patients and their families to stay. Find details at hogsfest.org.

May 14-15 American Ballet Theatre: Don Quixote. Bringing the masterpiece Don Quixote, American Ballet Theatre is accompanied by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at Mahalia Jackson Theater to close out NOBA’s blockbuster season. nobadance.com.

NOTE: All dates and events are subject to change or cancellation. Send your event information to scoopINOLA@gmail.com to have it featured in an upcoming issue of Inside New Orleans.

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s i T ’ the Season!

Shopping and Dining Around the City

Right: Colorful stemware at JADE. Below: A Christmas bell from Judy at the Rink.

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THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE perusing a locally owned shop—beautiful home goods, ornate decorations, sweetly scented candles, handmade art and pottery, fabulous clothing. While it’s fun to shop for yourself, it’s even more satisfying to mark off items on your Christmas list! Fresh and fun glassware for your aunt? Check. A shining necklace for your sister? Check. New pajamas for dad? Check. And it’s undeniable that our local store and restaurant owners are even more excited to see your face during the holidays!

DECK THE HALLS Hilltop Shoppe owner Mary-Martin France’s go-to advice for gifting is to “start simple”. She says: “Go with something everyone likes. Either a candle or one of our French tea towels is usually my go-to for the hard-tobuy-for customer.” Mary-Martin’s personal favorite gift this year is their new handmade wine glasses from Saban Glass. Available in bright and fun colors, each glass is oneof-a-kind. She also expects their new lacquered sphere candles and always popular Thymes Frasier Fir products to be customer favorites. Hilltop Shoppe will be part of several pop-up markets this year along with the Cannery’s Lanyard Lovebirds on December 5, and the Southern Hotel in Covington on December 9.

Anything acrylic is a go-to gift for JADE owner Jennifer Rabalias. She suggests, “Frames, trays, vases, games, coasters—acrylic matches almost

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photo courtesy: JADE

by Leah Draffen

any style!” Other favorite items in store include Estelle colored glasses for the wine lovers, a gold sustainable electric chargeable lighter, luxe coffee table books, initial notepad with acrylic holder, brand new PJ Harlow sleepwear, and alpaca slippers. Jennifer has seen trends in fuzzy faux fur tree skirts, vintage inspired décor and ornaments, and whimsical glass Christmas ornaments perfect for ornament exchanges. She believes that the color gold continues to dominate the holiday season and beyond!

BEJEWELED Speaking of gold, Anna Hollinger, of Symmetry Jewelers and Designers, says versatile, easy-to-wear pieces are going to be a hit this year. “We expect minimalist

crafts pieces into wearable art making them perfectly unique and personal gifts for loved ones. “I love when someone finds a piece that speaks to them. It’s the look on their face when they clearly connect to a piece,” she says. Jennifer will also happily meet via video from her studio to help design a custom piece.

photo courtesy: REAGAN CHARLESTON JEWELRY

styles, which feature raw or natural textures, will be popular,” Anna says. Want a gift idea that’s perfect for anyone? How about a necklace! “We have pieces in every price range from designers, carried by no one else in the city. And our large inventory of necklaces starts at $50.”

For Brandon Boudreaux of Boudreaux’s Jewelers, he’s excited to see all their Christmas customers from years past. He says, “Being in our fourth generation, I hear all the old stories of how my grandfather or great grandfather sold jewelry to some of our longest standing clients.”

This year, he expects the classics to rule holiday gifting— diamond studs, bracelets and pendants. He adds, “One thing that we always stress is to get in the store early. We custom make a huge amount of jewelry during the holiday season, but at a certain point we have to cut off orders.

There is no feeling worse than having to tell someone that there simply is not enough time to make that perfect gift they envisioned for their loved one!”

While out shopping, you can meet Jennifer Ponson of Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Designs on December 4 and 5, during her trunk show at the Bead Shop on Magazine Street. Jennifer has been working with Jasper along with other beautiful items from mother nature. She

photo courtesy: SYMMETRY JEWELERS & DESIGNERS

BEST DRESSED This holiday season, Reagan Charleston Thomas’ hat collaboration with Eugenia Kim is sure to be a hit with Reagan Charleston Jewelry collectors. She also expects the latest Manifestation Collection pieces are going to be

super popular gifts. “All of our jewelry pieces are original designs that are entirely artisan made; cast by hand in our East Coast casting house; and finished in our local studio.”

Reagan loves matching sets for gift ideas. She adds, “Petite pieces for daughters and full-size pieces for mommies; and cufflinks and lapel pins for him to match with necklaces, earrings, pendants, and rings for her.”

To dress for your holiday gathering, sequins, bold color, and cutouts are on the radar at SOSUSU. Owner Susan Stall says, “We offer cocktail to denim and everything in between catering to everyone from ages 18 to 80!” They also have a variety of gifts ranging from his and her Christmas pajamas, to winter hats, Christmas socks, and jewelry by Tendenza and Of RARE Origin. SOSUSU will celebrate its five-year anniversary on December 1 with food, drinks and giveaways. Join in on the fun and knock out some shopping while you’re there.

Clockwise from top: Stunning diamond studs from Boudreaux’s Jewelers; wearable art from Jennifer ON THE LIST Ponson Jewelry At Home Malone, Kristin Malone wants to help her Designs; unique customers find locally made gifts for everyone on their necklaces from list. “While many people are concerned about supply chain Symmetry Jewelers issues, we aren’t too worried. Since we opened five years & Designers; a chic ago, our mission was, and still is, to buy from local makers hat from Reagan who are designing and creating their products locally,” Charleston Jewelry’s Kristin says. “Our Home Malone door hangers are always collaboration with a customer favorite. It’s the perfect under $50 gift that >> Eugenia Kim. D e ce m be r 2 0 2 1 - Jan uary 2 0 22

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To Help Make Your List

Boudreaux’s Jewelers 701 Metairie Road, Metairie 831-2602 boudreauxsjewelers.com

Briquette

701 S Peters Street 302-7496 briquette-nola.com

Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard 819 Conti Street 581-3866 broussards.com

Everyday Keto To Go 110 Athania Parkway, Ste B, Metairie 957-9033 everydayketotogo.com

Galatoire’s

209 Bourbon Street 525-2021 galatoires.com

Home Malone

4610 Magazine Street 766-6148 homemalonenola.com

Hilltop Shoppe 3714 Magazine Street 533-9670 hilltopshoppe.com

JADE

324 Metairie Road, Metairie

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875-4420 jadenola.com

Jefferson Performing Arts Society

1118 Clearview Parkway, Metairie 885-2000 jpas.org

Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Designs 850-698-3183 jenniferponson.com

Judy at the Rink 2727 Prytania Street 891-7018 judyattherink.com

Reagan Charleston Jewelry

Canal Place, 333 Canal Street, Ste 200A reagancharleston.com

SOSUSU

3427 Magazine Street 309-5026 sosusu.myshopify.com

Swiss Confectionery 3700 Orleans Avenue 522-7788 swisscakes.net

Symmetry Jewelers and Designers 8138 Hampson Street 861-9925 symmetryjewelers.com

photo courtesy: BROUSSARD’S

Brûlot written by Sue Strachan. Although the drink may have originated in France, Café Brûlot is primarily served in New Orleans, making it a distinctive Crescent City tradition. Sue delves into the history of the drink, the story of its various ingredients, and the customary implements used to serve it. Sure to be found under many Christmas trees, the book can be purchased online at lsupress.org, or in person at Octavia Books and Garden District Books.

For the person who truly has everything, the gift of theatre is an out-of-the-box idea. Gift cards, individual tickets and season subscriptions are all available for the Jefferson Performing Arts Society. This season, JPAS will present The Nutcracker ballet with two matinee shows on December 18 and 19 at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Amy Kirk Duvoisin tells us about the annual production, “JPAS continues to ring in the season with The Nutcracker. It’s a rite of passage for both local dancers and their families, as well as a wonderful tradition for audience members.”

photo courtesy: HOME MALONE

people love.” Kristin also recommends useful or one-ofa-kind gifts for those who seem to have it all. “A curated package of a few items such as a wooden roux spoon, a ceramic spoon rest, and a tea towel. All functional items that can be displayed but also well used!”

Martha Claire Breland of Judy at the Rink agrees that local and thoughtful items will dominate gift lists this year. She says, “I think local items are going to shine this season! We’ve had such a focus on community over the past two years and love supporting our artists.” She personally enjoys decorating for Christmas and cannot wait to welcome customers to their glittery wonderland in store. “It really puts you in the spirit and carries the glitter into Mardi Gras!”

Books are always a classic option when it comes to gift-giving and LSU Press recently released The Café

photo courtesy: GALATOIRE’S

TRADITIONS NEW AND OLD A well-loved tradition this time of year is Galatoire’s

Réveillon menu. The restaurant is delighted to share this magical season with so many loyal patrons and their families, Melvin Rodrigue, president and CEO of Galatoire’s Restaurants, says, “We’d like readers to know that—despite the challenging times we have experienced during the last 18 months—traditions endure. The holiday season is a special time to celebrate our time-honored traditions and Galatoire’s is ready to set the table and be the centerpiece for families and friends to gather and embrace their traditions. This is something we need now more than ever.” Réveillon Lunch and Dinner, created by Executive Chef Phillip Lopez, will be offered December 1-24 along with a New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner on December 31. Find details at galatoires.com.

At Briquette, owner Anna Tusa is ready for some fun at their annual Holiday Spirited Dinner on December 10.

The dinner will feature five courses paired with a festive hand-crafted cocktail prepared by Anna. “Everyone will be going home with a special thank you gift for being amazing supporters of Briquette all year long,” Anna says. The meal is $125 per person all inclusive. Reservations can be made on OpenTable or through Anna at 460-3886. >>

Top: Broussard’s exterior.

Above: Galatoire’s shrimp remoulade.

Left: Many door hanger options at Home Malone.

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For 101 years, Broussard’s has served its French and Creole-influenced menu in its historic French Quarter location. This year, as Chef Jimi Setchim has paid homage to Louisiana ingredients, he created special prix fixe menus for each ingredient including spices, coffee, rice, and pecans. For the month of December, Broussard’s will finish their Centennial-Plus-One Celebration with a citrus menu. Chef Jimi Setchim will also showcase Louisiana citrus with several special menu items on the traditional Réveillon menu.

SWEETS AND MORE If headed to a holiday party empty handed, swing by Swiss Confectionery for the sweets! In fact, they are offering Christmas or holiday-themed cake designs at no additional charge, and their petit fours are in the spirit as well with red and green options. “You can never go wrong with a box of our ‘flurries’, which are our classic petit fours with a white chocolate snowflake on top,” Sarah Mitzel says. Their assorted fancy and deluxe mix boxes are an easy, delicious way to offer a variety of treats at any event.

For holiday meals at home, Everyday Keto To Go owner and baker Susan Freeswick is excited to introduce stuffing breadcrumbs this year. In addition to Everyday Keto To Go’s wide variety of guiltfree sweets and savory goodies, she says, “We provide holiday specials including pies, cake rolls, and more savory items like the breadcrumbs. We also have side dishes like dressing, ‘sweet potato’ casserole (without sweet potatoes) and more!” If you want to surprise a friend or family member who has dietary restrictions, an Everyday Keto To Go gift card may just be the perfect gift.

From shopping for jewels to noshing at Friday lunch, we hope that your holiday prep is filled with local merchants, purveyors, and restaurateurs so that we all may have a merrier Christmas!

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This fall, we asked our readers to nominate their favorite businesses in nearly 45 categories. From dentists to brunch spots, the winners are listed below. Congratulations to all!

Be on the lookout for more Readers’ Favorites online at insideneworleansmagazine.com.

Weekend Getaway Destination Grand Isle Gulf Shores, AL Pensacola, FL South Walton, FL

Tourist-in-YourOwn-Town Activity Audubon Zoo Café Du Monde New Orleans City Park French Quarter Longue Vue Gardens Streetcar ride

Gulf Coast Casino Resort or Hotel

Beau Rivage Resort and Casino, Biloxi, MS. The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa Autograph Collection, Fairhope, AL. Silver Slipper, Bay St. Louis, MS. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, D’Iberville, MS. The Beach Club, Gulf Shores, AL. The Henderson Park Inn, Destin, FL.

Artist/Art Gallery Abigail Reller Art Casey Langteau Art Degas Gallery Gallery B. Fos Martine Chaisson Gallery

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Sarah K Kreations Terrance Osborne Gallery

Museum

Louisiana Children’s Museum National WWII Museum New Orleans Jazz Museum New Orleans Museum of Art Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Live Music Venue d.b.a.

House of Blues Rock ‘N’ Bowl Tipitina’s

Festival

Creole Tomato Festival French Quarter Festival Jazz and Heritage Festival Poboy Festival

Place for Artisan Cocktails Briquette Cure Saba Southern Hotel Bar The Sazerac Bar The Carousel Bar

Hotel

Roosevelt Hotel Royal Sonesta Southern Hotel The Chloe Virgin Hotels New Orleans Windsor Court Hotel

Nonprofit

Boys Hope Girls Hope New Orleans Ballet Association Son of a Saint You Night We Lift You Up

Charity Event

Audubon Zoo-To-Do CHAIRish the Children Games in the Gardens Hogs for the Cause Lark in the Park

Mardi Gras Parade Cleopatra Endymion Muses Rex Thoth

King Cake

Haydel’s Bakery Dong Phuong Bakery Everyday Keto To Go Gambino’s Bakery Manny Randazzo King Cakes Swiss Confectioners

Abita Brewery Crescent City Brewhouse Kingfish Cider NOLA Brewing Port Orleans Brewing Company Urban South Brewery

Bakery

Everyday Keto to Go Gambino’s Bakery Gracious Bakery Haydel’s Bakery LA Boulangerie Swiss Confectionery

Local Celebrity

Brittany Piccolo-Ramos Bryan Batt Harry Connick, Jr. Reagan Charleston Thomas

Bar

Columns Bar Delachaise Hermes Bar Josephine Estelle The Bombay Club

Place to Buy Fine Jewelry Aucoin Hart Jewelers Boudreaux’s Jewelers Diamonds Direct Friend & Company Fine Jewelers Jack Sutton Fine Jewelry Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry

Place to Buy Jewelry

Mignon Faget Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Designs Reagan Charleston Jewelry Symmetry Jewelers

Restaurant

Antoine’s Restaurant Boulevard Briquette GW Fins The Pelican Club

Breakfast

Brennan’s Café Du Monde District Donuts Ruby Slipper Riccobono’s Panola Street Cafe

Brunch Spot

Hotel Restaurant

Criollo (in Hotel Monteleone) Josephine Estelle (in Ace Hotel) Jack Rose (in Pontchartrain Hotel) The Grill Room (in Windsor Court)

Blue Line Sandwich Co. Briquette Broussard’s Restaurant Court of Two Sisters New Orleans Creole Cookery Ralph’s on the Park

Date Night Restaurant Avo Compère Lapin Pêche Seaworthy

Friday Lunch

Broussard’s Restaurant Commander’s Palace Galatoire’s Restaurant Mr. B’s photos courtesy: SARAH K KREATIONS

Local Brewery

Place for Dining Al Fresco Blue Crab Café Degas Chef Ron’s Gumbo Shop

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Snowball Stand Casey’s Hansen’s Plum Street Sal’s

photo courtesy: SARAH K KREATIONS

Plastic Surgeon

Herbsaint Rum House

Boutique Au Darling Em’s Peony Swoon

Gift Shop

Auraluz Chateau Drugs & Gifts Home Malone JADE Judy at the Rink Phina

Holiday Gift Shop Chateau Drugs & Gifts Fleurty Girl Fur.Nish Hazelnut Hilltop Shoppe

Spa

Earthsavers Ritz Carlton Spa The Spa by Sadeghi Woodhouse Day Spa 32

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Grocery

Breaux Mart Dorignac’s Food Center Langenstein’s Rouse’s Market Zuppardo’s Family Market

Hair Salon

Doll House Hair & Beauty Salon H2O Salon Senoj Studio Lu Elle

Dr. Summer Black Dr. Benjamin Boudreaux Dr. David Jansen Dr. Stephen Metzinger Dr. Ali Sadeghi Dr. Ravi Tandon Dr. Parker Velargo Dr. Jules Walter

Dermatologist

Wedding Dress Shop

Pearl’s Place The Bridal Boutique by Mae Mae Town & Country Bridal Yvonne La Fleur

Dr. Zeena Al-Dujaili Dr. Elizabeth Foley Bucher Dr. Tamela Charbonnet Dr. Patrick Coleman of Coleman Center for Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery Dr. Michelle Gerdes Dr. Elizabeth B. Greishaber of Terezakis & Grieshaber Dermatology Dr. Nicole Rogers Dr. Richard Sherman

Toy Store

Hospital

Le Jouet Learning Express Magic Box

Children’s Hospital Ochsner Hospital Touro Tulane Hospital

Surgery Center

Avala Crescent City Surgery Center Houma Outpatient Surgery Center St. Charles Surgery Center

Urgent Care

LCMC Urgent Care In and Out Rapid Care Metairie UrgENT

Pediatrician

Dr. Stephen Hales Dr. Lauren Hernandez Dr. Heather Porche of Collins Pediatrics

Dentist

Dr. Kevin Astugue, DDS Dr. Todd Canatella, DDS Dr. Tre DeFelice, DDS Dr. Troy Patterson Sr. of Oak Family Dental Dr. Nicole Russo, DDS Dr. Garry S. Salvaggio, DDS

Veterinarian

Batt Veterinarian Magazine Street Animal Clinic Metairie Small Animal Dr. Jessica Miller at Uptown Vet Dr. Karen Miller-Becnel at The Cat Hospital of Metairie

Place to Board Your Pet Camp Bow Wow Canine Connection Dogtopia Pet Paradise

Artwork is courtesy of Sarah Hebert of Sarah K Kreations. As a mama, wife and business owner, Sarah is a completely self-taught artist. Sarah loves using texture while painting unique architecture like the several establishments demonstrated above. Learn more at sarahkkreations.art.

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s e n e c S e h t d Behin at Celebration in the Oaks

by Leslie Cardé

The moss-covered live oak trees are all aglow on the driving tour.

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DRIVE IT, BIKE IT, ride the train through it, or stroll on foot amongst the festive light show in the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and New Orleans own Botanical Garden inside City Park. Whatever you choose, you’ll be delightfully amazed at the twinkling spectacle before you, consisting of over a million lights in an array of designs and colors that are a feast for the senses.

It’s the annual Celebration in the Oaks which traditionally starts on Thanksgiving evening and runs through January 2, attracting visitors from 48 states, with the largest number of out-of-state visitors (outside the southeast region), coming from California. The event has been a staple of the holiday season since the late ‘80s, and, in spite of last year’s pandemic, 45,414 vehicles rolled through the park, totaling nearly 186,000 people

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that became part of the holiday festivities in 2020.

What began as a small fundraiser for The Botanical Garden inside the park has become an extravaganza, which raised over $1.4 million for the park just last year.

“The event grew from a daytime tea and cider event to something else entirely, when Paul Soniat (Director of the New Orleans City Park Botanical Gardens) brought in longtime news anchor (now retired) Angela Hill of WWLTV who came on board to promote the event,” explains Casie Duplechain, Chief Development Officer for City Park. “The celebration later expanded to a driving tour, and Entergy also became a large sponsor by providing the bucket trucks and manpower to hang exhibits throughout the ancient live oaks.”

Those live oak trees which are the stars of the show

photos: BOONE CLEMMONS, COURTESY OF CITY PARK

have taken a significant hit, first with Category 3 Hurricane Zeta in October 2020, and most recently the nearly Category 5 Hurricane Ida which barreled down upon New Orleans on August 29th.

The park sustained $2 million in damages, specifically impacting the tree canopy throughout the park, whose branches arch their way along the meandering driving tour. Although the oldest ancient live oak tree grove survived, 124 significant trees were lost in Ida, totaling over 43,000 cubic yards of debris, which will now be used as compost throughout the park. With 2.25 miles on the driving tour alone, it’s doubtful any participants will notice a tree shortage, but it has cost the park $1

million in recovery efforts, to date, and is why the popular fundraiser is so critical to the park’s maintenance.

A staff of seven people construct all of the LED-light displays in-house throughout the year in preparation for the annual light show, and this year there is a new exhibit, The Crescent City Connection Bridge which measures 14’ H X 50’ W, making it one of the two biggest exhibits in the park, the other being the SS Annie, a 50’- long paddlewheel boat. The fan favorites are back, and include the pirate ship, aquatic animals, the horse-drawn carriage, unicorn, famous St. >>

Top: The giant poinsettia tree in The Conservatory lets everyone know the holidays are here.

Above: Flamingo Island reflected in one of the many lagoons in City Park is always a fan favorite.

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Louis Cathedral, Flamingo Island, Mr. Bingle, and T-Rex & friends, the dinosaurs who have lined the train route since 2019.

Since the lights are taken down each year after the celebration ends in January, I wanted to know just who was responsible for the massive effort involved in putting up and taking down over a million lights?

“We have four guys we call our MacGyvers,” explains Julie LaCour, Director of Special Events/Celebration in the Oaks.

“They make everything work around here.

When you consider it takes eight months from concept to installation and then takedown and cleaning, this is a full-time job. These guys navigate bucket trucks and 30 to 40-foot lifts, and even do welding. To do this job takes creativity, skill and no fear of heights. It’s a labor of love for these guys.”

Many people believe that the lights are taken down each year because of the cold weather in the winter that might crack the glass in the lights, but LaCour says it’s not about the weather, it’s about the squirrels.

They will eat right through the wires.

This year’s “celebration” includes a variety of activities from all-access passes to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with unlimited rides, an outside bar at the Botanical Gardens where you can share a holiday indulgence under the sweeping starscape, a new festive train experience with on-board entertainment, a newly added “snow” area, marshmallow roasting and hot chocolate, photo opportunities, a dancing light show in the Carousel Gardens, and so much more.

City Park is 50 percent larger than New York’s Central Park (which has 843 acres), compared with City Park’s 1,300 acres. It’s home to everything from The New Orleans Museum of Art to the Enrique Alférez Sculpture Garden, two 18-hole golf courses with a driving range, a tennis center, and the ambling 5.5 acres of rolling hills of Nola City Bark, the utmost in dog parks... and that’s just for starters.

Therefore, navigating the activities amidst this sprawling greenspace may require a map, which is available on the park’s website at celebrationintheoaks.com. On the site, you will also find the different ticket combinations and prices, as well as entrance points into the park for each of the events, and all sorts of other Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

With attendees coming from 17 different countries around the world, it’s New Orleans’ time to shine, showcasing this fabulous park in the best possible light.

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Trust your Face to Dr. Velargo, a Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Velargo is a double board certified facial plastic surgeon who has been practicing uptown for over 7 years.

He is an internationally published expert in facial plastic surgery and has been invited to speak both internationally and stateside at numerous plastic surgery conferences. Dr. Velargo has also been recognized as a key opinion leader by top cosmetic injectable companies, and frequently trains other providers across the country using his signature techniques.

Aging face surgery before.

Three months after.

Dr. Velargo specializes in surgery of the aging face as well as surgery of the nose. Here are some of his most popular treatments.

1) Deep Plane Neck Lift: What makes this procedure unique is that Dr. Velargo addresses up to 7 layers of tissue in the neck, including fat, glands, and muscles while most other surgeons typically address only 3 layers. This results in a neck contour that is unparalleled, even in downward gaze.

Patients mid-40’s and younger typically only require a small incision under the chin without any incisions around the ears. This is frequently combined with a deep plane face lift in older patients.

2) Rhinoplasty: Dr. Velargo prides himself on producing natural elegant results with his rhinoplasties. Additionally he ensures that patients have adequate nasal function following surgery. It is truly an art. Dr. Velargo uses 3D imaging software prior to surgery to help establish realistic expectations and visualize the potential outcome.

3) Minimal access Brow Lift: Brow lifts don’t have to involve shaving hair or long incisions. Dr. Velargo uses 4 tiny incisions hidden in the hairline (each the size of a thumbnail) to lift the brows and temporal tissue. Results are long lasting and very natural appearing.

4) Eyelid Surgery: Both upper and lower eyelid surgery can

be life-changing. They make you appear more alert and less tired. These procedures can even be done in the office using local anesthesia and mild sedation.

5) Lip Lift: Wait, what?!? Yes, the lip can be surgically lifted with a well camouflaged incision under the nose. Thin lips, flat lips, and long lips can be addressed permanently and naturally without filler.

Rhinoplasty before.

Rhinoplasty after.

Dr. Velargo ensures that you leave your consultation with him well educated on what options will give you the best results possible. Trust your face to an expert —Dr. Parker Velargo.

2633 Napoleon Ave., Ste. 920, New Orleans (504) 533-8848 • www.plasticsurgerynola.com • @PlasticSurgeryNOLA

3.

1.

2.

Women’s Jewelry 4.

1. Gold Venetian Glass coin chain necklace.

Chateau Gifts & Drugs, Metairie, 889- 2300, chateaudrugsrx.com. 2. L’Amour Crisscut collection, starting at $6,995. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, 831-2602, 5. boudreauxsjewelers.com. 3. 18K yellow gold diamond celestial pendant with lapis. Ron Jewelers, Kenner, 4055121, ronjewelers.com. 4. Galaxy beaded bracelet with mother of pearl charm, $45. Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Design, 850-698-3183, JenniferPonson.com. 5. Garden Gate chandelier earring inspired by Reagan and Reina’s Parisian design expedition. Handcrafted by master artisans, $270. Reagan Charleston Jewelry at Canal Place, ReaganCharleston.com. 6. 14k white gold Art Deco pendant with .15ct diamond and sapphire accents, $1,500. Symmetry Jewelers, 861-9925, symmetryjewelers.com. 7. Antique diamond filigree ring in platinum and 14kt white gold, $3,650.

Wellington & Company Fine Jewelry, 525-4855, store.wcjewelry.com.

6.

7.

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Holiday Gift Guide

1.

2.

3.

1. Cast a romantic glow on your holiday season with Bevolo’s 9” French Quarter patio lantern, $300. Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, 522-9485, bevolo.com. 2. Papa Noel mugs, $25 each. Hilltop Shoppe, 533-9670, hilltopshoppe.com. 3. Patience Brewster by Makenzie-Childs Dash Away Santa Sitting Figure, $308. Judy at the Rink, 891-7018, judyattherink.com. 4. PHYTOMER reveals the secrets of perfect moisturizing with OLÉOCRÈME Ultra-Moisturizing Body Milk: an ideal combination of the comfort of a cream and the lightness of a body milk. Its “antithirst” formula, infused with hydrating and lipid-replenishing ingredients, moisturizes the skin from morning to night. The Woodhouse Day Spa, 482-6652, woodhousespas.com.

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4.

5.

6.

5. The perfect stocking stuffer! Cajun Pop, cajun-pop.com. 6. 24k goldplated sterling silver lapis droplet surrounded by a sparkly cubic zirconia halo by German artist, Bernd Wolf.

16”-18” chain. Symmetry Jewelers, 861-9925, symmetryjewelers.com.

7. Pajamas available in matching His and Hers. SOSUSU, 309-5026, sosusu. myshopify.com. 8. Who wants beautiful lashes by Christmas? Whether it’s your first time or you just need a refill, LATISSE® kits are available now for purchase before the holiday rush.

Aesthetic Surgical Associates, 3097061, aestheticsurgical.com.

7.

8.

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Holiday Gift Guide 2.

1.

3.

1. Stay warm this holiday season in luxury winter items like Powder scarf and gloves, and One Hundred Stars robe. Chateau Gifts & Drugs, Metairie, 8892300, chateaudrugsrx.com. 2. The Skinbetter InterFuse Treatment Eye Cream received the 2021 Prevention Beauty Award for best anti-aging eye cream. It diminishes dryness and locks in moisture with a synergistic blend of humectants. New Orleans Aesthetics, 475-1000, neworleansaesthetics.com. 3. Enjoy a complimentary Reparative Mask when you schedule any in-salon service. The Reparative Mask is an intensive conditioning treatment, it helps reconstruct the fiber deep down and gradually increases the hair’s resistance to breakage. Service must be valued at $50 or more. (Valid thru 1/31/22). Studio Lu Elle, Metairie, 655-9868, studioluelle.org.

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4.

5.

7.

6.

4. Paintings by Alabama artist Lorrie Lane, 6” x 6”, $95 each. Greige Home Interiors, Covington, 985-875-7576, greigehome.com.

5. Reagan Charleston Jewelry Monarch necklace from the Manifestation Collection, from $200. Available in sterling silver and bronze. Reagan Charleston Jewelry at Canal Place, reagancharleston.com.

6. Auraluz hand-embroidered two-piece sets, $52-56. AURALUZ, Metairie, 8883313, shopauraluz.com. 7. Boudreaux’s Signature diamond hoop earrings, starting at $1,995. Boudreaux’s Jewelers, 831-2602, boudreauxsjewelers.com.

Holiday Gift Guide

1.

2.

1. Market Street lantern, shown with pendant yoke, in three sizes, starting at $358. Gulf Coast Lanterns, Covington, 800-9103275, GulfCoastLanterns.com. 2. Highly advanced anti-aging ingredients, this kit is designed to help reduce the appearance of early or significant signs of environmental and chronological aging. Jansen Plastic Surgery Medi-Spa, Metairie, 455-1000, jansenplasticsurgery.com.

3. Your one-stop shop for your cats during the holidays! Cat Hospital of Metairie, 837-6137, catsarespecial.com. 4.

Age your own spirits at home with this 5-Liter black hooped American oak barrel featuring the Sazerac House logo.

The inside of the barrel is toasted medium to medium plus and barrel includes spigot, bung and stand, $95. The Sazerac House, 910-0100, 3. sazerachouse.com.

4.

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5.

5. 14K rose gold halo 3ct emerald cut diamond engagement ring.

Ron Jewelers, Kenner, 4055121, ronjewelers.com. 6. Stay warm this holiday season in luxury winter items like an One Hundred Stars robe. Chateau Gifts & Drugs, Metairie, 8892300, chateaudrugsrx.com.

7. Maison Berger Lampe gift sets, $60-80. AURALUZ, Metairie, 888-3313, shopauraluz.com.

8. Cozy up in the plush signature Pontchartrain robe. Pontchartrain Hotel, 800-708-6652, thepontchartrainhotel.com.

6.

7.

8.

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Holiday Gift Guide 1.

2.

4.

3.

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1. Holiday festivities are always more fun when viewed through the lenses of hand-crafted frames such as L.a. Eyeworks (featured in photo), Gucci, Chanel, Cartier, Anne et Valentin, and Krewe. Eye Wares, 301-1726, eyewaresnola.com. 2.

New Orleans Disasters: Firsthand Accounts of Crescent City Tragedy

by Royd Anderson. Available for purchase on Amazon. facebook. com/neworleansdisasters. 3. Holiday Hydration for your skin! Product package includes Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment, Alastin Restorative

5.

Neck Treatment, and SkinBetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment. Reguarly $335; mention this listing through January 2022 to receive $50 off. New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery, 533-8848, plasticsurgerynola.com. 4. Cajun Kringle from Haydel’s Bakery, 837-0190, haydelsbakery.com. 5. Southern Bloody Mary gift box, $72. NOLA Boards, 256-0030, nolaboards.com.

6. “Testing the Waters” Heron 24” x 36” indoor/outdoor door mat, $34.99. Outdoor Living Center, Covington, 985893-8008, outdoorlivingcenter.com. 7. Tiger eye earrings, $45. Jennifer Ponson Jewelry Design, 850-698-3183, jenniferponson. com. 8. Tivoli gold table lamp. Southland Plumbing Supply, Metairie, 504-8358411; Mandeville, 985-893-8883, southlandplumbingsupplymetairie. com.

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6.

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IN Better Health

by Leslie Cardé

DERMATOLOGY TODAY covers a myriad of treatments and encompasses everything from acne and skin cancers to aesthetic treatments which address the aging process.

When patient Jennifer Williams, a nurse practitioner herself, decided to make an appointment with dermatologist Dr. Zeena Al-Dujaili, she had a number of issues on her plate that she wanted to discuss with her physician.

“I initially came in for anti-aging treatments, but we began to discuss how to address my adult acne,” remembers Williams. “I didn’t have extremely visible facial acne that was as bad as many people endure, but most people didn’t know I had body acne which was not only embarrassing, but painful as well. With age, it was continuing to worsen.”

Upon examination, Dr. Zeena found an abundance of acne on Jennifer’s back, which can occur for a multitude of reasons, including stress and heat, and hormonal changes – even coming off birth control pills.

Regardless of any underlying causes, both doctor and patient decided to engage in tackling the problem.

“There are different types of acne –comedonal 50

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(causing bumpy skin and oil-blocked hair follicles) and cystic (painful bacteria and pus-filled pimples),” explains Dr. Zeena. “The patient had a combination of these two types. We decided initially to treat it with a topical retinoid, but she really needed a stronger option, which was Accutane (isotretinoin) taken orally.”

Isotretinoin has long been the gold standard for treating recalcitrant acne, but treatment must be followed closely by a licensed medical doctor, who monitors for any side effects. The drug cannot be taken by anyone who is pregnant or trying to become pregnant. However, used properly, it can be extremely effective.

“The patient had previously been on antibiotics, to no avail,” notes Dr. Zeena. “After three or four months of Accutane, we noticed a remarkable difference, and at six months, the acne was gone. We now have her on topical tretinoin therapy, as maintenance.”

For Williams, it wasn’t until her acne was gone that she realized how much of her life had revolved around her skin problems.

“I recently went on my first beach vacation (with plenty of hats and SPF) since completing treatment,” recounts Williams. “I used to always have to worry when the breakouts would occur, plan for back-up outfits, have different make-up to try to cover it up, and basically plan my whole vacation around this problem.

On this recent vacation, I texted Dr. Zeena and her staff a photo of myself on the beach, and thanked them for the confidence that I was able to pack with me.”

Jennifer has now begun treatments to resurface the damaged skin that was the result of years and years of chronic acne.

Skin damage, however, can occur over time from a factor much more common than acne... the sun. The damage that occurs from sun exposure is one of the major reasons that people age prematurely, acquiring excess lines, wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. Skin

photos: MELANIE LANGTEAU MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY

with Jennifer Williams

Dr. Zeena Al-Dujaili.

damage is cumulative, so often how you treat your skin today will have repercussions years, even decades, down the road. Excess tanning can have much more drastic consequences than wrinkles, however, in the form of various types of skin cancers. Trained as a Mohs surgeon (a subspecialty of dermatology which requires advanced schooling), Dr. Zeena removed skin cancers on her New York City patients, before opening her own practice in New Orleans. That procedure entails surgically removing tissue layer by layer until no cancer cells remain.

“Most patients don’t realize that you don’t have to be lying on the beach or even be outside for extended periods of time to damage your skin cells,” comments Dr. Zeena. “There’s a great picture that was shown in the Wall Street Journal of a truck driver who drove for years with his driver side window down, and his arm hanging out. The left side of his body, which was getting the sun, looked weathered...nothing like his right side. Wearing sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher which contains zinc or titanium actually acts as a physical shield when applied often enough. I tell patients to get up in the morning, wash their face, apply an antioxidant like vitamin C and then apply sunscreen, whether they’re going in the sun, or not.

Damaging rays come through windows and even penetrate clouds on an overcast day.”

For those who do wish to reverse the effects of aging and sun damage, Dr. Zeena is fellowship-trained in cosmetic dermatology and assesses each patient individually, engaging them in conversation about what specifically on their face they would like to improve. There are injectables like Botox and Dysport which work to weaken or paralyze certain active muscle groups, or fillers like Juvederm and Restylane which plump up areas in the face which have lost springiness and tightness from the loss of collagen. There is also microneedling which causes small injuries to the skin which helps create collagen as the body heals. There are a wide array of treatments which Dr. Zeena is eminently qualified to employ.

“There’s still no replacement for taking care of your skin from a young age, recounts Dr. Zeena. “That means protecting it from the sun and free radicals and nourishing it from the inside out by maintaining a healthy diet.”

When it comes to your skin, the old adage certainly applies; an ounce of prevention is decidedly worth a pound of cure.

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Aesthetic Surgical Associates

Stephen E. Metzinger, MD, MSPH, FACS 3223 8th Street, Ste 220, Metairie 504-309-7061

Astugue Family Dentistry Kevin C. Astugue, DDS 100 Robert E. Lee Blvd 286-3880 astuguefamilydentistry.com

Coleman Center for Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery 4425 Conlin St, Metairie 455-3180 Drcoleman.net

Doll House Hair & Beauty Salon 4650 West Esplanade Ave, Ste 103, Metairie 504-835-7474 Metairiesalon.com

Everyday Keto To-Go

110 Athania Parkway, Ste B, Metairie Everydayketotogo.orders@gmail.com 957-903

Jansen Plastic Surgery

3900 Veterans Memorial Blvd, #200, Metairie 2100 Audubon Ave., Thibodaux 504-475-1209 Jansenplasticsurgery.com

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Lakeview Endodontics

Dr. Quinton Miner, Jr., DDS 600 Harrison Avenue, New Orleans 504-226-7600 endolakeview.com

LCMC Health Urgent Care

Algiers, Gretna, Clearview, Lakeview, Covington, Marrero and Uptown LCMChealthurgentcare.com

New Orleans Aesthetics

Dr. Zeena Al-Dujaili 3434 Prytania Street, Suite 420, New Orleans 504-475-1000 neworleansaesthetics.com

Retina Associates

Gwen M. Cousins, MD; Kathy H. Ta, MD; Ronald L. Willson, MD; and Stanislav A. Zhuk, MD. 4315 Houma Blvd., Ste. 201, Metairie; 1311 Ochsner Blvd., Covington 504-456-9061 RetinaAssociates.org

Studio Lu Elle

3348 West Esplande Ave, Ste 105, Metairie 655-9868 studioluelle.org

Thibodaux Regional Medical Center 602 N. Acadia Rd., Thibodaux 985-447-5500 thibodaux.com

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INside Peek Shining the Spotlight on Southern Designers

photos: Mark Mascar & Steve Hammond

In the words of iconic fashion designer, Coco Chanel; “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

That couldn’t be a more appropriate descriptor for New Orleans Fashion Week recent fashion fête – Taste of Fashion Week. The 3-day event culminated with an evening of runway shows featuring a variety of fashion aesthetics from street-styles to fantasy.

In partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy ‘Embrace the Culture’ the event took place in historic Gallier Hall where over 15 designers presented their collections.

The goal was to shine the spotlight on local fashion designers; giving them a platform to showcase their creative talent. Mission accomplished.

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Games in the Gardens

photos courtesye: LONGUE VUE HOUSE & GARDENS

The second annual Games in the Gardens took place at Longue Vue House and Gardens. An outdoor fundraiser benefiting education in gardening and the natural environment, the evening was filled with food, fun, and philanthropy presented by the Friends of Longue Vue. Guests enthusiastically engaged in croquet, boules, table tennis, chipping, hors d’oeuvres by Hippie Kitchen and music by the Harry Hardin Trio. The Event Co Chairs were David, A. Briggs, Elizabeth M. Landis, Selby S. Melius.

Games partners included Thibodaux Pétanque, Red Stick Croquet Club and New Orleans Table Tennis Club.

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INside Peek 1-5. It was a night to remember for fans and friends of Inside New Orleans. Guests gathered at the New Orleans Jazz Museum to meet October-November 2021 cover artist James Michalopoulos. Surrounded by art and musical artifacts, everyone enjoyed food by Annunciation, drinks by Urban South Brewery and Kingfish Cider, and

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treats from Everyday Keto To Go, Haydel’s Bakery and Cajun Pop. New Orleans Jazz Vipers provided music for the evening. 6.-7. Briquette’s incredible team at AJ Tusa’s Italian Wine Dinner held at the warehouse district restaurant. 8. Kehoe-France Southshore’s STEM class using string and rubber bands to create a cup tower. No hands allowed! 9. Mahlon and Karen Sanford with Tammy and Scott Crabtree at Lambeth House Foundation’s

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13th Annual Lambeth House Gala 2021 presented by Bellingrath Wealth Management & Employee Benefits, Hancock Whitney, and Ochsner Health. 10. Charlotte Travieso and Tim Trapolin. 11. Holly Abbott, Marietta Stirratt, and Anne Honeywell. 12. Dr. Zeena Al-Dujaili, Reina Tucker and Reagan Charleston Thomas (with her newest addition) at their Glow Getter Party held at New Orleans Aesthetics.

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The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel

photo courtesy: THE GRILL ROOM AT WINDSOR COURT HOTEL

Last Bite

REGARDED AS ONE of New Orleans’ ultimate fine dining destinations, The Grill Room at Windsor Court Hotel combines elegance, an intimate ambiance, unparalleled service, and one of the most extensive wine collections in the city.

While showcasing the talents of renowned chefs, Culinary Director Igor Krichmar and Executive Chef Vlad Kogan, The Grill Room’s dinner menu offers soups, greens, steaks, and seafood among other savory options. The famous Lobster Salad is comprised of a local herb and lemon aioli, fresh lobster delivered from Maine topped with Regiis Ova Ossetra Caviar, yuzu compressed Asian pear, assorted citrus pickled heirloom tomato seed and cucumber consommé poured tableside.

This holiday season, The Grill Room’s Réveillon dinner menu includes ‘Beet’ Tartar; Loch Etive Steelhead, which is roasted salmon plated with wild

kale and swiss chard, fennel pollen, roasted sweet corn and caviar cream; and Opera Torte, an almond cake with dark chocolate ganache, coffee buttercream, dark chocolate streusel, and coffee ice cream.

On Christmas Eve, a Prix Fixe dinner will be served, and on Christmas Day, a Prix Fixe lunch and dinner. While the first and second course options are sure to satisfy, third course choices include Macfarlane Pheasant; White Alba Truffle and Pumpkin Risotto; Filet Mignon; or Red Snapper. Finish with an option of Gingerbread Roulade, “Hot Chocolate”, or Intermezzo.

Each course will be paired with a complementing wine.

Celebrate the season at The Grill Room!

Lobster Salad.

The Grill Room will also serve a New Year’s Eve Dinner on December 31. Visit windsorcourthotel.com for menus and serving times. For reservations, call 522-1994 or online at OpenTable.

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IN the Kitchen

by Lorin Gaudin

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Oyster Patties I’M VERY FORTUNATE to have married into a family of excellent cooks with many holiday recipe traditions. While reminiscing about family specialties, the subject of Oyster Patties came up. It took a minute for me to figure out that “patties” are a local term for “vol-au-vent,” a pastry shell that can hold anything from beef burgundy to crab meat dressing, garlicky artichokes and breadcrumbs, even fruits, nuts and honey. My favorite place to get freshly baked pastry shells is from Maurice’s French Pastries in Metairie. However, frozen shells from the grocery store work just fine.

My husband’s Aunt Beth is famous for her holiday specialty of oyster patties - pastry shell rounds filled with a simple stew of Louisiana oysters in a light, slightly loose bechamel. It’s delicious and, quite honestly, it reminds me of a fancy oyster version of Chicken a la King. Aunt Beth graciously shared her recipe (a copy was passed on to me from a sister-in-law) that I’ve made as written, but I decided to add my own spin with shallots and fresh herbs, including a splash of Chartreuse (borrowed from a recipe I saw during my research), for a slightly snazzier version.

INGREDIENTS ½ cup butter (1 stick) ½ cup finely-chopped French shallot or yellow onion ½ cup finely-chopped white and lightgreen parts of a leek 2 cloves of garlic, minced 3 Tbsp. Wondra Gravy Flour 1 pint (16 oz) fresh oysters, drained (reserve as much oyster liquor as possible; you want about a cup.

If you’re short, add homemade or low-salt seafood stock to make a cup) ¾ cup Half-and-Half (you can use whole milk if you prefer) Splash of Chartreuse (optional) 1 bay leaf 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme 1/8 cup minced fresh flat-leaf chervil or parsley, whichever is available ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon white pepper ½ tsp. kosher salt (or more, to taste) 24 (small) or 12 large oyster patty shells from Maurice’s Bakery Finely sliced scallion for garnish INSTRUCTIONS In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add shallot (or onion) and garlic, cooking and stirring often, until lightly browned. Add Wondra flour, and cook, whisking constantly, until roux is tan.

Whisk in 1 cup of oyster liquor (or oyster liquor and stock combination), cream, bay leaves, sage, Chartreuse and thyme.

Bring to a boil over high heat, whisking constantly and scraping the bottom and sides of the skillet.

Add oysters, parsley, cayenne and white pepper. Turn off heat and stir until the edges of oysters curl. Remove from heat; remove bay leaves, and season to taste with salt and pepper, to taste.

Fill patty shells (you can use the small or the large) with oysters and sauce. Garnish with sliced scallions. Serve warm.

photos: LORIN GAUDIN

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Drinks with Anna

by Anna Tusa

Dreaming of Christmas Markets and Holiday Cocktails

I MISS HOLIDAY TRAVEL, and especially the beloved Christmas markets that pop up in Europe this time of year. Nothing gets you in the spirit like walking around these markets with a warm holiday cocktail, smelling the delicious aromas of traditional Christmas fare, and seeing all the smiling faces of vendors selling their cheese, sweets, and hand made goods. So, with this mind I wanted to re-create these festive memories at home this Holiday season.

Our first stop on the holiday drinking-around-the-world tour is the Christmas market in Nuremburg, Germany, home to the famous Gluhwein – German mulled wine.

This traditional German drink made by pouring red wine into a bowl heated bowl.

(Think of our crawfish boil pot set up.) A metal grate is then placed over the top of the bowl and a rum soaked sugar cube is placed on top; and set on fire to caramelize into the wine. This is so amazing to see in person. Let us re-create this drink at home on your stove top or crock pot.

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GLUHWEIN: HOT SPICED WINE 2 bottles red wine (inexpensive; use a full-bodied wine like a Syrah or Malbec) 3 star anise 6 cinnamon sticks 2 cloves Pinch of nutmeg 2 oranges zested 10 oz apple cider

Allow the above ingredients to simmer on low heat to infuse spices with the wine and apple cider. Next once everything has infused add 10 oz of brandy still using low heat. To serve ladle into a festive glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange slice.

And the best part—leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days and re-heated on low heat.

Next up, we travel to Italy for the Bombardino: Italian Egg Nog. This drink mixes brandy and alcoholic egg-based zabaglione to create an orange

“bomb.” It is is famous in Christmas markets of Northern Italy, and ski slopes in the Italian Alps. This drink is super easy to make at home.

BOMBARDINO: ITALIAN EGG NOG 40 ml brandy 80 ml Advocaat or Zabov Zabaglione egg liqueur (if you can’t find this, use your favorite eggnog) Whipped cream Ground cinnamon Gently warm the egg liqueur in a pan, but do not boil. Pour the brandy into a glass mug. Pour the warm eggy liqueur into the glass and stir. Pipe in whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Our next stop France, and the Christmas market on the Champs Elysees where we will sip Vin Chaud: French Mulled Wine. This is also a favorite in the Christmas markets along the Rhine River in the Alsace region of France.

VIN CHAUD: FRENCH MULLED WINE 1.5 bottles of red wine (again inexpensive, but full bodied) 1 cup brown sugar Zest 1 lemon Zest 1 orange 2 cinnamon sticks 2 star anise 2 cloves Pinch of Nutmeg 2 Tablespoons of Honey On your stove top bring the red wine to a boil, add remaining ingredients, then simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Ladle into a glass mug. Garnish with another cinnamon stick and an orange slice. This drink is also great for parties. Do not forget that you can re-use any leftovers.

From France, we will travel to England for a Wassil. Wassil is a festive traditional drink that dates back to Medieval times when, on the Twelfth Night, villagers would run into the fields and chant as a spiritual ritual to help the apple crops thrive for spring harvest.

Today, it is a holiday favorite in some of London’s nicest Cider rooms and hip bar scene.

2 apples 750 ml bottle of Cognac 8 cups apple cider 2 cups orange juice 1/3 cup lemon juice 4 cinnamon sticks 15 whole cloves ¼ teaspoon ginger ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

WASSIL

Poke the whole cloves into the apples on all sides. Add all ingredients, including the apples to a large pot over medium-low heat. Bring to simmer. Simmer for 45 minutes. Remove the apples and whole cloves ladle into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice and enjoy. This one is even better re-heated the next day.

Our final stop on our holiday drinking around the world is Ireland for a Christmas Irish Whiskey Cocktail. This is a cocktail that is popular around the holidays in Ireland according to the Irish Whiskey Museum.

CHRISTMAS IRISH WHISKEY COCKTAIL 2 oz Irish Whiskey (I am a Jameson lover) 1 oz Kahlua Coffee liqueur .05 oz Mint Schnapps Pour all ingredients into a high ball glass filled with ice and stir.

Garnish will a candy cane.

I hope you will enjoy all of these fun, festive, and easy drinks that help me recall my experiences in these beautiful places while enjoying the local culture (aka “Cocktails”).

Cheers!

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Haute Plates

A selection of restaurants and haute dishes found in New Orleans and beyond.

A Tavola

3413 VETERANS BLVD.

METAIRIE 504-577-2235 ATAVO.LA

Blue Line Sandwich Co. 2023 METAIRIE RD.

701 SOUTH PETERS ST.

(504) 309-3773

NEW ORLEANS 504-410-5171

504-302-7496

METAIRIE, LA

BLUELINESANDWICHCO.COM

Modern Italian cuisine in a lively, family-friendly setting. Featuring a

Briquette

Boulevard American Bistro

Farm fresh breakfasts and

5171 CITRUS BLVD.

NEW ORLEANS

BOULEVARDBISTRO.COM

BRIQUETTE-NOLA.COM

Classic American cuisine with

Award-winning contemporary

bright, spacious dining room, patio and

lunches at Blue Line Sandwich Co.

locations in Elmwood and Metairie.

coastal cuisine featuring Gulf seafood

bar offering Salute! Wednesdays, Vino

Pictured above is the homemade,

Enjoy delicious dishes, exceptional

and fish, beef, lamb, chicken, Maine

Thursdays, and daily happy hour from

locally sourced St. Patty’s Day

service, and outdoor dining. The bar

Lobster and unique chef specials

2 – 6 pm. Join us for Italian favorites,

Massacre Corned Beef sandwich.

hosts Wine & Dine Wednesdays, $5

daily. Holiday Spirited Dinner,

wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, paninis,

Catering and Delivery available.

Martini Thursdays, and a happy hour that

December 10th, 7pm. 5 Courses,

runs weekdays from 3-6 pm.

$125 per person.

salads, and more!

Broussard’s Restaurant Everyday Keto To Go The Grill Room at Windsor Court 110 ATHANIA PKWY, SUITE B & Courtyard 819 RUE CONTI

METAIRIE, LA 70001

300 GRAVIER ST

504-957-9033

NEW ORLEANS 504-522-1994

BROUSSARDS.COM

EVERYDAYKETOTOGO.COM

WINDSORCOURTHOTEL.COM

Celebrate Broussard’s 101 years of

Healthy can be delicious!

The Grill Room at Windsor Court

NEW ORLEANS 504.581.3866

service with Chef Jimi Setchim’s $48 3-course

Gluten free, Sugar Free, Low Carb

is recognized as a local leader in Modern

prix fixe menu. Enjoy the ambiance of outdoor

and Keto Bakery delivering weekly

American cuisine with a distinct New Orleans

dining in the largest courtyard in the French

to New Orleans and surrounding

flair. Whether it’s a dinner with a menu that

Quarter. Join us for our monthly Century

areas including the Northshore!

defies categorization or the gourmet Plate

Supper Series featuring craft cocktails from

Everydayketotogo.com or call/text

Lunch menu, The Grill Room transforms fine

each decade we have been in service.

504-957-9033 to place your order.

dining to make it accessible and fun.

New Orleans Creole Cookery 508 TOULOUSE ST.

NEW ORLEANS 504-524-9632

NEWORLEANSCREOLECOOKERY.COM Experience the traditional Creole tastes of New Orleans in the historic French Quarter. Specialties include jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, shrimp creole and raw and chargrilled oysters on the half shell. Craft cocktails and signature drinks with Happy Hour, weekdays 3-6pm.

Wetlands Sake

THE NEWEST ADDITION to the New Orleans brewery scene isn’t what you’re expecting…Wetlands Sake is the first sake brewery in Louisiana. Considering our state is the third largest producer of rice in the country, a sake brewery just made sense to owners Nan Walls and Lindsey Beard. And noticing the uptick of the beverage on wine lists of fine dining establishments in cities like New York, they thought it was about time someone brought it to New Orleans.

Three years and a multitude of brewing trials later, a portfolio of premium craft sakes recipes is perfected. The lineup includes two traditional sakes (a bright, fruity Filtered and a cloudy, silky Unfiltered) and innovative sparkling sakes introduced in two flavors, Blood Orange and Passion Fruit. Packaged in accessible single-serve cans, Wetlands hopes that sake will be ushered into the fold of the American alcoholic beverage experience. Crawfish boil?

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perfectly. Mixer? The ingredient you never expected to elevate your cocktail game.

Housed in a converted warehouse space off Tchoupitoulas, the brewery is anchored in a community dedicated to handcrafted beverages. Wetlands’ sakes are made with a unique short-grain rice grown exclusively at a Louisiana farm.

And in their research to find the right fit, Nan and Lindsey learned about the role the wetlands play in rice cultivation. As multigenerational New Orleans natives, they considered this, along with their inherent appreciation for the beauty and the protections of the wetlands, when they decided to dedicate a portion of profits to wetlands conservation.

The luxe taproom space at the brewery is slated to open in January 2022. In addition to their core lineup, a

photos courtesy: WETLANDS SAKE

Last Sip

selection of rotating small batch varieties and infusions, crafted by a master mixologist, will be available. Neighboring the Brennan concept market and eatery The Commissary, the shared outdoor space means that you can enjoy classic New Orleans fare while sipping on sake! It’s the perfect addition to the Lower Garden District and New Orleans as a whole.

Wetlands Sake is located at 634 Orange St, Ste B, in New Orleans. Visit wetlandssake. com for more information.