Night out on the Northshore

by Brad Ferrand

IF YOU ARE LOOKING for a perfect weekend getaway, the Mandeville and Covington areas of the Northshore have everything needed for a fun and memorable experience. Let us guide you in exploring some of the best the Northshore offers. We will showcase Nouvalari’s, The Gloriette, Whiskey Tavern, and the Southern Hotel. We suggest starting your first evening at Nouvalari’s. Located at 246 Girod Street in the heart of Old Mandeville, Nuvolari’s has earned a reputation as a culinary destination that offers more than just a meal—it provides an experience. With its blend of traditional Italian recipes, a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, and commitment to excellence, Nuvolari’s has become a beloved establishment for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends, this restaurant offers something for every palate. Nuvolari’s is under new ownership and boy, the changes are noticeable. The service was impeccable, the atmosphere was lively, and, most importantly, the food was back on point. After having a drink at the bar, we were shown our table and began our feast. Nuvolari’s draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of Italy, emphasizing fresh, highquality ingredients, simple yet flavorful preparations, and a warm, welcoming ambiance. The restaurant’s menu features an array of dishes that span the spectrum of Italian cuisine, from hand-crafted pasta to classic seafood and tender meats, all prepared with a contemporary twist. We started with an antipasti course of warm olives and fennel drizzled in olive oil, chicken liver pate, and beef short rib arancini balls. To say these starters blew us away is an understatement. The entrées were equally as impressive. I usually have two rules I stand by when I dine at Italian restaurants: 1.) If there’s a veal dish, get it. 2.) If grilled pompano is topped with jumbo lump crabmeat, skip rule number 1 and go with rule number 2. I chose number 2, and, well, let’s just say that I was glad I did. The pompano was perfectly grilled and topped with a huge portion of Louisiana’s nectar of the gods – jumbo lump crabmeat. It was served over a bed of perfect-grilled asparagus. Dessert featured an assortment of sorbets and, of course, tiramisu.

Nuvolari’s is more than just a place to eat—it’s a celebration of Italian cuisine and a beloved spot in the Northshore dining scene. With its delicious menu, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service, it’s no wonder this restaurant continues to be a favorite among those who crave authentic, high-quality Italian food.

Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, a meal at Nuvolari’s is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Once your meal at Nuvolari’s is finished, we recommend checking out one of Covington’s hottest new music venues, Whiskey Tavern. Located at 600 Highway 190 just north of Interstate 12 in Covington, Whiskey Tavern is a hot, new restaurant and bourbon bar offering live music with local and national bands. This swank new establishment is more of an upscale club than your typical dance hall. A centrally-located bar can be found in the main room. Special “VIP” half-moon booths are present along each side of the bar, which also overlooks the main stage. These booths can accommodate up to six guests and offer a more intimate and relaxed experience. On each side of the main stage are yet more VIP areas. These private areas offer couches and great views of the stage. Behind the stage, in a separate room, is the real hidden treasure – a “VIP” speak-easy-style bar and restaurant awaits those who are members of Whiskey Tavern’s Diamond Club. Members can enjoy a more private and upscale experience in this Club, which offers a first-class bar and a more upscale menu of food to dine on before concerts. We felt like we were in a swanky Manhattan nightclub and not in the middle of Covington.

Whiskey Tavern isn’t just about drinks and music. It’s also known for its exceptional food. The menu is a love letter to Southern comfort cuisine, offering a variety of dishes that satisfy both the soul and the palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite or a hearty meal, Whiskey Tavern has you covered, and if you are craving one of its famous craft burgers for lunch, you can grab one because Whiskey Tavern just recently expanded its hours to offer lunch on Wednesday through Friday.

As discussed, in addition to great food and drinks, Whiskey Tavern regularly hosts live music and special events, making it a popular gathering spot for Covington residents and out-of-town visitors. Bands performed at Whiskey Tavern include Bag of Donuts, The Molly Ringwalds, and the Chase Tyler Band.

Whiskey Tavern’s schedule of events often includes trivia nights, cocktail classes, and whiskey tastings, offering something for every taste. These events help foster a sense of community, making Whiskey Tavern a place to eat and drink and a vibrant social hub where people can come together, relax, and have fun.

Whiskey Tavern in Covington offers more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s an experience. Whiskey Tavern provides the perfect blend of tradition, creativity, and charm, from its carefully crafted cocktails and expansive whiskey selection to its Southern-inspired comfort food and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur, a craft beer enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a great place to unwind and catch a great band, Whiskey Tavern is a local treasure that promises to deliver every time.

At this point, we do not recommend heading back across the Causeway. Instead, we highly recommend staying at the Southern Hotel in downtown Covington for a night or two. The Southern Hotel offers a luxurious atmosphere where guests can enjoy an elevated experience without sacrificing comfort. The hotel’s design beautifully balances its historic features with modern touches. The interiors boast high ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and large windows that allow natural light to flood the rooms. The aesthetic is a harmonious blend of vintage Southern style with contemporary furnishings and décor, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

Each guest room at The Southern Hotel is meticulously designed with comfort in mind. From spacious suites to cozy, well-appointed rooms, every detail is thoughtfully curated to provide guests a restful and pleasant stay. The rooms feature plush bedding and modern amenities like flat-screen televisions, minibars, and elegant bathroom fixtures, ensuring guests feel pampered and at home. Some rooms also offer picturesque views of Covington’s historic downtown, adding an extra layer of charm to the experience. The hotel also recently opened The Garden House adjacent to the Southern Hotel, which offers spacious and luxurious private suites. We enjoyed the elegance of our stay in our suite inside The Garden House.

The Southern Hotel offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. One of the main attractions is the Cypress Bar. This comfortable backlit bar offers an upscale bar experience to guests and locals alike, featuring bourbon specials on Wednesdays and Hers Day every Thursday; the Cypress Bar has everything you expect in a first-class bar. After enjoying a delicious Old-Fashioned or French 75, take a short walk to The Gloriette, a fine dining restaurant inside the Southern Hotel. The Gloriette has been a welcomed French restaurant offering local and French-inspired cuisine. Our scrumptious meal began with a delicate poached pear salad with a blue cheese mousse, arugula, and spiced pecans. Our entrée featured slow-roasted duck breast with blackberries, marinated kale, and butternut squash. For a truly French experience, we also recommend the beef short rib bourguignon served on top of an addictive crispy potato cake. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. Our server, Destin, has been with The Gloriette since its inception, and she is one of the premier servers on the Northshore. She will answer all your questions, provide friendly conversation, and steer you in the right direction while you navigate the menu. We cannot recommend the Southern Hotel experience enough. We are confident that you will not be disappointed.

Take it from us. The Northshore has you covered if you are craving a short weekend getaway. Indulge in a stay at The Southern Hotel and dine at some of the great restaurants the Northshore offers. You can’t go wrong at Nuvolari’s, Whiskey Tavern, or The Gloriette. Hit all three during your stay and sleep like a baby inside the Southern Hotel. What are you waiting for?