TOP-SHELF PUB GRUB ew Orleans’ July heat can be ferocious, like a sauna and a steam room had a baby. But this is a city prepared for the swelter with plenty of cool ways to hydrate and cure the hangries. Whatever your pleasure—chugging a tall iced tea, slurping some noodles, tossing back a chilly shot of tequila or devouring frites—the newest places to chill are close at hand. Pop into one of these dope bars, grab a seat, eat, quaff and cool your heels. BY LORIN GAUDIN
BARREL PROOF
Pair a Caffe Flip (a boozy riff on an egg cream) with snazzy snacks like frites and aioli at happy hour, or go full-ham on a fat farmhouse cheddar and roasted tomato-topped Franklin Burger, spiced Brussels sprouts and luscious lemon pie. www. thefranklinnola.com
Dark and moody best describes the decor, though the crowd trends light and fun and the bar team is stellar. From the kitchen there’s a rotating crew of pop-ups covering a lot of flavor. Recently, Matchbook Kitchen (inspired Thai and Latin), Thali Llama (Indian), Little Kitchen (tacos) and Daddy Hot Bird (hot fried chicken) have been holding delicious court. www.barrelproof nola.com
JEWEL OF THE SOUTH Billed as a “tavern,” this charmer, run by two of the best in the local bar biz, rocks cocktail classics (and more) to go with a clever,globespanning menu of pâté, bao, gumbo, gnocco fritto and calas. www.jewelnola.com
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: A BARREL PROOF MARGARITA, FRESH MOZZARELLA WITH HERBS FROM JEWEL OF THE SOUTH AND THE FRANKLIN BURGER
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THE FRANKLIN
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