FROSH 2012

ERE WH O G TO

PRODUCED BY

LOUISIANA MUSIC, FOOD & CULTURE www.offbeat.com

WHAT TO DO

Welcome to New Orleans!

Your crash course is in session. Within these pages you’ll find most everything you need to help make your higher education in the Big Easy as fun and productive as possible. Read on for the essentials and the indulgences, from food to nightlife to navigating the Crescent City. Brush up on your local history, and discover ways to explore the town without overdrawing your bank account. Find stylish duds, scout your daily coffee fix and impress your jealous friends with your knowledge of the neighborhood.

Above all else—be smart, be safe, and remember, let the good times roll. Now, hit the books.

Take the ferry to Algiers Point—it’s

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free

www.OFFBEAT.com

Contents The Basics 101

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Media resources, Health and Fitness, Grocery Stores, Laundromats, Coffee Vitals, Online Essentials, Hurricane Preparation.

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LOCAL INTERNET RESOURCES TWITTER FEEDS TO FOLLOW

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APPS TO DOWNLOAD

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Move It!

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Getting around in the Crescent City via public transit, bike and more.

Food, Dude!

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You gotta eat. Carnivore or vegan, budget or baller, find your fix here.

LATE-NIGHT DELIVERY

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YA-KA-MEIN, YA-KA-YOURS

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TO MARKET, TO MARKET

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Vintage & Vinyl

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Where to score the important stuff: records, books, smokes and cool duds.

Slack On, Slack Off

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Live music, cultural offerings and other extracurriculars.

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MOVIE THEATERS

No Really, I’m a Local

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A primer in how to prove it, from dates to remember to neighborhoods at a glance.

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VITAL PRONUNCIATIONS Publisher and Editor-in-Chief: Jan V. Ramsey. Editors: Amanda Schurr, Elsa Hahne, Joseph L. Irrera and John Swenson. Contributing writer: Amanda Schurr. Design by Elsa Hahne.

Cover by Kevin Thayer. Photos by Jess Pinkham. Advertising Sales: Aaron Lafont and Carly Levenshon. Copyright © 2012 OffBeat, Inc./The Frosh Guide OffBeat Publications, 421 Frenchmen St., New Orleans, LA 70116, (504) 944-4300.

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The Basics 101 (the fundamentals of college life) You’re here. (You’re here!)

You’re ready for New Orleans, to take in its food, its festivals, its music—and sure, to study a bit, too. First things first, though: milk and eggs, clean jeans that aren’t walking by themselves, where to go in an emergency, medical or otherwise. And perhaps most critical to the day, your first cup of joe.

With that, we submit the most elementary of info. You’ll be quizzed later.

You and Media The OffBeat Family OffBeat Magazine: The folks behind FROSH publish New Orleans’ free music, food and culture magazine every month, on glossy, glorious full-color pages chock-full of news, feature stories, interviews, photos, reviews and more. We may be a little biased, but suggest picking us up around town to learn about the city’s varied music scene, from funk to indie rock to underground hip-hop and everything in between, along with our restaurants, cooking and visual arts.

OffBeat.com: Here’s your onestop digital shop for music and event listings, current and archived issues of OffBeat online, including articles that

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LOCAL INTERNET RESOURCES BlackenedOut.com: Popular local food blog written by OffBeat’s restaurant reviewers, Rene Louapre and Peter Thriffiley.

Tips on places to eat out, both on and off the beaten path.

DefendNewOrleans.com/blog: Producer of New Orleans’ most popular tees, Defend New Orleans has a blog about local news and events, from architecture to photography and music.

Nola.gov: The city’s website, where you can pay tickets, find work, volunteer in the wetlands, or even report that pothole.

Nola.com: This easy-to-navigate website is affiliated with the Times-Picayune and local TV station ABC26. Head here for extensive news, weather, classifieds, event schedules and other tidbits.

Nola.HumidBeings.com: A by- and for-locals “cyber-gumbo” of New Orleans.

In addition to the usual news, events and places pages, check out the blogs section, with its handy consolidation of posts from local bloggers and newspapers.

NolaDefender.com: A well-designed, irreverent site that goes inside local news.

TheLensNola.org: The Lens does investigative journalism in New Orleans at a time when few others are, and more should be.

WorkNola.com: The best place to look online for a job to pay for those weekend expenses. Lots of internships as well, including many that offer school credit (gratuitous plug: OffBeat is always looking for good writing, photography and video interns to help produce content). www.OFFBEAT.com

date all the way back to 1988, providing a rich history of the city’s music, art and culinary scenes. We also blog, post news, videos and other web-only features daily to keep you updated about everything that’s going on.

Facebook.com/OffBeatMagazine and @OffBeatMagazine: Like us on Facebook for ticket giveaways and updates, and follow us on Twitter for vitals on events around town, links and more.

OffBeat iPhone App: Access our full listings while you’re already out and about, plus quickly look up venues in our directory, watch video and read stories from the current issue while you’re bored in class, or upload your iPhone pics to our app-user album on Flickr.

Weekly Beat: Subscribe to our email newsletter sent out every Thursday morning with music picks, upcoming events, ticket giveaways, local album releases and more.

To Your Health Options other than Ochsner and Touro.

Common Ground Health Clinic (1400 Teche St., Algiers, 504-3619800, CommonGroundClinic.org): This appointment-only facility, opened just days after Katrina, focuses on providing primary care to the uninsured and underinsured.

Payment runs on a sliding scale.

Daughters of Charity Health Centers (locations in the Bywater, Carrollton, Metairie and East New Orleans, 504-2073060, dcsno.org). A variety of primary and preventative health care services, including vision and dental, available to patients regardless of insurance status.

New Orleans Urgent Care (900 Magazine St., Warehouse District, 504-5522433, NewOrleansUrgentCare.com): An alternative to the ER for minor emergencies, this clinic welcomes walk-ins seven days

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a week, takes most major insurance and Balance Yoga & Wellness (120 S. offers a deposit system for patients without Cortez St., Mid-City, BalanceYogaWellness. coverage. com): This renovated old house-turnedPlanned Parenthood (4018 Magazine St., Uptown, 504897-9200, PlannedParenthood. health org): The local branch of this sexual and reproductive health Visit gnocommunity.org for a care resource is located at New Orleans Health Center. comprehensive listing of health care Urgent Care Clinic at LSU providers in the Greater New Orleans Health System’s Medical area.

Office Building (2025 Gravier St., fifth floor, Downtown, 504-903-0564, lsuhospitals): No appointment is necessary for this nonemergency clinic, open to the public. There’s also a round-the-clock hotline (877-LSU-TALK/578-8255) to serene studio offers by-donation community speak with a nurse. classes in Anusara, Kundalini, Pranayama and integrated styles.

Fitness & The Beauty Lab NOLA Fit Grooming (5033 Freret St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-891-8803): Fight the Freshman 15.

This new, stylish Freret Amazing Hands Street salon is one of (appointment only, the most affordable Tulane/Loyola, 504spots to get your curls 717-2577, neworleans. clipped. Just a short amazinghands.us): walk from Tulane and From stress reduction Loyola, the Beauty Lab to relaxation to pain accepts both walk-ins management to and appointments, sports care and special which can be made on needs, this massage Facebook. In addition to studio offers a highly haircuts, the salon offers specialized line of highlights, color, facial therapeutic massages. waxing, eye-lash care Scheduling is flexible, and makeup services. but appointments must Freret Street Yoga be made ahead of time. Conveniently located (4608 Freret St., Uptown, 504-899-1142, within walking distance of Loyola and Tulane, FreretStreetYoga.com): Walking distance Amazing Hands offers students discounts. from the Tulane campus, Geoffrey Roniger’s

HELLO

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Terranova’s

studio concentrates on the Hatha approach and offers classes for all levels of experience.

Jewish Community Center Uptown (5342 St. Charles Ave., Uptown, 504-8970143, nojcc.org): Spin classes, basic weight and exercise equipment, spa services, a sauna and steam room are among the offerings that mark this alternative to Tulane’s Reily Student Rec Center.

Life Yoga (5422 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-267-0380, LifeNola.com): Feel a variety of flow (Vinyasa, power, funky, Ashtanga) here, where mat use is free and students get special rates.

New Orleans Athletic Club (222 N. Rampart St., French Quarter, 504-525-2375, NewOrleansAthleticClub.com): Amenities for your considerable dollar at this historic facility include basketball and racquetball courts, an indoor lap pool, spa, barber, boxing ring and track.

NOLA Fit (2116 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-941-7083, NolaFit.com): An upscale two-story full-service gym with all the fixin’s—automatic rock wall, free

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movement machines, tanning facilities, cardio and aerobics rooms, classes, etc.

Romney Pilates (3701 Magazine St., Irish Channel, 504-895-1167, RomneyPilates. com): Within these eco-friendly walls is a full menu of yoga, meditation and massage therapy services, along with both low and high impact programs exclusive to the studio.

Spa Savoir Faire (5014 Freret St., Uptown, 504-891-8404, spasavoirfaire. com): Recently relocated to Freret Street, Spa Savoir Faire offers massage, aromatherapy, cupping, salt and sugar scrubs, facials and peels, waxing and eyebrow tinting. Keep your student I.D. handy, and you’ll save 10 percent on spa services.

Wild Lotus Yoga (4842 Perrier St., Uptown, 504-899-0047, WildLotusYoga. com): After 10 years and now two locations (including the new post at downtown’s New Orleans Healing Center), Wild Lotus has the flexibility thing down pat, with options including drop-in and sliding scale community classes. www.OFFBEAT.com

Makin’ Groceries

HELLO

That’s what we call it here. produce You’ll be doing so soon, too.

Breaux Mart (3233 For more grocery-makin’ goodness, Magazine St., Garden District, turn to page 37 for info on the 504-262-0750): This local chain has five locations city’s farmers’ markets, organic and offering produce, flowers, vegetarian options. meat, seafood and daily deli “ToGeaux” specials.

Canseco’s (3135 Esplanade Ave., Mid-City, 504-3222595; 5217 Elysian Fields Ave., Gentilly, 504-218-8426): Another local business, with three locations, of which the Bayou St. John regional chain has locations throughout store stands out. the city. The new location on Baronne rivals The Fresh Market (3338 St. Charles Whole Foods in freshness and specialty Ave., Uptown, 504-895-5160): The East items.

Coast chain just opened its first New Orleans Terranova’s (3308 Esplanade Ave., Midlocation in the former Borders (and Bultman City, 504-482-4131): A cozy mom-and-pop Funeral Home) building on the streetcar operation known for its destination butcher line. They promise to “cheerfully carry your counter. Go early in the day for the fresh, groceries to your car.” You can always ask if house-made sausage. they’ll carry it across the neutral ground for Whole Foods (5600 Magazine St., you. Get a free coffee while you shop.

Uptown, 504-899-9119): Your local outpost Langenstein’s (1330 Arabella St., of the Whole juggernaut.

Uptown, 504-899-9283): Around since Winn Dixie (various locations citywide, 1922, this neighborhood grocery, with winndixie.com): Hit the website to find the its emphasis on pre-made New Orleans location nearest you; a “super” store is culinary staples (red beans and rice, crawfish coming to Mid-City (just across the street etouffee), is a favorite among locals. from the Carrollton Rouses, no less), in late Poeyfarre Market (925 Poeyfarre St. ‘12 or early ‘13. #1, CBD, 504-522-5252): A relatively new In the Wash addition to the Warehouse District, this specialty grocery stocks local products, such Laundromats as sweets from Uptown’s Sucre.

Cleanerama (106A Bruff Commons Rouses (701 Baronne St., CBD, 504Building, McAlister Drive, Tulane, 504-862227-3838; 4500 Tchoupitoulas St., Uptown, 8530): The convenient Tulane campus location 504-896-7910; 400 N. Carrollton Ave., also offers dry cleaning, wash-and-fold, Mid-City, 504-488-2129; 6600 Franklin alterations and other services also available at Ave., Lakefront, 504-361-5557; 701 Royal its main location at 3639 S. Carrollton.

St., French Quarter, 504-523-1353): The Follow us: facebook.com/offbeatmagazine & @offbeatmagazine

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The Clothes Spin (840 N. Rampart St., French Quarter, 504-522-1336): No coin laundry here, just cards you load funds onto and swipe.

Igor’s Lounge (2133 St. Charles Ave., Uptown, 504-568-9811) and Igor’s Checkpoint Charlie (501 Esplanade Ave., Marigny, 504-9497012): Pub, grub and rub-a-dub-dub for your duds. ‘Nuff said.

Lucky’s Bar, Grill and Laundromat (1625 St. Charles Ave., Uptown, 504-523-6538): Have a terrific Bloody Mary while you get out that, um, stain.

Magazine Laundromat (4639 Magazine St., Uptown, 894-8887): Good location, good capacity machines, drop-off services, too.

Splish Splash Washateria (3101 Grand Rte. St. John, Mid-City, 504942-0272): Give dat wardrobe a bath—again, good location, machines both large and small.

Hey! Cafe

Suds Dem Duds (1101 Bourbon St., French Quarter, 504-309-9871): “Suds” for everyone—free soap, y’all!

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TWITTER FEEDS TO FOLLOW In addition to @offbeatmagazine, of course.

Eater (@EaterNOLA): Follow for all things foodie (and drink) related.

Groupon (@GrouponNO): Deal-conscious Twitters flock here for everything from discounted cemetery and Segway tours to $10 for $20 worth of goods at local businesses. (See also: @LivingSocialNO.) New Orleans Film Society (@NOFS): Follow this reel-ly respected organization for info on screenings, special events, its annual film festival (held in October) and more.

Sports (@WWLTVSports): Keeping up with Saints news is a Brees (c’mon, man!) with this local CBS-affiliate feed, which also covers the Hornets, LSU, Tulane and more.

Star Power: Harry Shearer (@ TheHarryShearer) and Wendell Pierce (@ WendellPierce): Actors, celebs and kick-ass advocates for the Crescent City.

WWOZ-FM (@WWOZ_NewOrleans): The Twitter feed for New Orleans jazz and heritage community radio, 90.7 FM, one of the greatest radio stations ever, period.

Dry Cleaners DeLuxe Laundry-Cleaners-Storage (5325 Canal Blvd., Lakeview, 504-4887733): Not surprising for a place with “storage” in the title, DeLuxe offers 24hour drop-off and pickup.

Liberto Cleaners (4814 Prytania St., Uptown, 504-897-2161; 8128 Willow St., Uptown, 504-861-7812): For four www.OFFBEAT.com

generations, this family business has been offering old-school, spendier care for shirts and skirts.

Q Lee Laundry and Cleaners (1629 Basin St., Treme, 504-523-8615): Another longstanding, family-run affair—70 years and counting—with expertise in all manner of uniforms, formal wear and alterations, too.

Young’s Dry Cleaning (905 Harrison Ave., Lakeview, 504-872-0931; 6227 S. Claiborne Ave., Uptown, 504-866-5371): Third generation local cleaners offer free pickup and delivery, along with garment restoration services.

Coffee ‘Cause what’s more important than your first cup?

The Bean Gallery (637 N. Carrollton Ave., Mid-City, 504-324-8176): This low-key Mid-City spot, with its free wi-fi and ample assortment of pastries, bagels and sammies, has an outdoor deck for the balmy days and a cute fireplace for the chilly ones.

Café Luna (802 1/2 Nashville Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-269-2444): A corner café on shop-happy Magazine Street, Café Luna boasts a spacious wrap-around porch, free wi-fi and a myriad of flavored iced lattés.

The back room offers a selection of board games and puzzles.

CC’s (multiple locations, CommunityCoffee.com): Also known as Community Coffee, CC’s offers up a wide selection of hot brews, espressos and frozen beverages. Get your caffeine fix while surfing the web on their free internet service.

Fair Grinds (3133 Ponce De Leon St., Xavier/Dillard, 504-913-9072, Fairgrinds. com): Fair Grinds is an unpretentious and excellent coffeehouse that makes one of the best bran muffins in the city.

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APPS TO DOWNLOAD Experience Mardi Gras—iPhone/ Android download—FREE: During carnival season, this GPS-tastic app lets you track parades en route to your viewing location.

GO NOLA—iPhone/iPad download— FREE: It may be the official tourism app of the city, but it’s also a helpful guidebook, navigator, restaurant guide and event calendar for newcomers.

New Orleans GPS Guide—iPhone/iPad download—$1.99: Locate wi-fi spots, points of interest and download offline maps to help you navigate.

OffBeat Mobile—iPhone, android and mobile site—FREE. Anything and everything you want to know about music, clubs and festivals in New Orleans. The club listings are renowned for their accuracy.

The Streetcar App—iPhone/iPad Download—$0.99; Android download— FREE: Check out schedules, fares, live ride GPS details and tips for new travelers.

WDSU 6 Hurricane Central—iPhone/ Android download—FREE: Live storm updates, a “threat meter” and general, non-hurricane weather updates from the local NBC affiliate.

First Cup Café (3146-A Calhoun St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-283-3838): Meet Moe. If Moe’s demeanor doesn’t make him your favorite New Orleans barista, then maybe his potent iced coffee will. His library ranges from Tolstoy’s War and Peace to monthly magazines.

Hey! Café (4332 Magazine St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-891-8682, HeyCafe.biz): Oddly

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shaped mugs, books, records, occasional live music and a hanging sign of a cup with teeth.

What’s not to like?

PJ’s Coffee and Tea Co. (multiple locations, PJsCoffee.com): This local chain has several convenient locations for students Uptown—on Tulane’s campus, Maple Street and Magazine Street—as well as a Mid-City location for Xavier and Dillard students and Rue de la Course

another branch near UNO. Try the awesome chocolate chip muffins, granitas and iced mochas.

Rue De La Course (1140 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-4343): Rue now serves delicious cold sandwiches as well as coffee. It’s popular with Uptown students seeking an off-campus coffee fix. Cash only.

Village Coffee (5335 Freret St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-1909, VillageCoffeeNewOrleans.com) Located on the corner of Freret and Jefferson Avenue, Village Coffee offers free wi-fi, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a menu that consists of both hot and cold beverages, plus sandwich options.

Z’otz (8210 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504861-2224): Hipsters flock to study in this dimly lit, eclectic café, with its unique mugs, board games and couches. It’s wired for wi-fi if you have your own laptop, or you can pay to use one of theirs. Cash only. www.OFFBEAT.com

Hurricane Preparation Hurricanes don’t move with the predictability of storm fronts, so every one has to be watched, but not all hurricanes that look like they’re bound for us make it here. That’s the problem.

Because of the number of false alarms—which far outnumber hits—locals can be laissez faire about hurricanes, as with so much else in the Crescent City.

Refer to your university’s website for its Hurricane Emergency Plan. Most provide a plan for students who cannot evacuate on their own; this likely means being bussed to a church in Baton Rouge where you will sleep on the floor. Given this scenario, consider making another game plan in advance.

To avoid your school’s shelter, research cheap hotels in another Mike the Bike Guy Louisiana city like Baton Rouge, or if you want to get further your means, there’s a mode of transport away, Houston, Jackson or to make sure that where y’at is where Memphis. The longer you wait to book, the you wanna be. longer your drive will be.

If you feel like you should leave before your Streetcars and buses—Not the most university cancels class, do it—no professor will efficient way to get around, but a relaxing blame you for getting out early. Just check with one—and, at exactly $1.25 a trip (if you them prior to departure to avoid a tardy strike don’t need a transfer), an economical and to get your assignments. one. Beware, though: conductors won’t make change. Uptown, it’s tempting to take the streetcar toward the Quarter, but the Magazine Street bus is faster. Tulane (all about getting all around the students will appreciate their namesake line, the 39, in particular. Visit Norta.com for Crescent City) more details.

We’ve established that you’re here.

Walking—New Orleans is a great city, But how do you get to there? Whatever but never turn your back on her. The town is

Move It!

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a checkerboard, not a melting pot, and the ostentatious mansions of St. Charles Avenue can be just blocks away from rougher neighborhoods. Stick to the main streets and trust your guts. On that note…

Taxi—Program United Cab into your cell phone (504-522-9771). Sooner or later, you’ll want a cab and it’s as reliable as any— we would argue more so than most. If you don’t have cash, be sure to ask for a credit card-ready cab and that you’re cool paying a $10 minimum regardless of how far you need to go.

Driving—Because of the heat (among other factors), New Orleans is a car town.

Watch out for axle-grinding potholes, some of which can get deep enough to hide entire shopping carts, and don’t count on your fellow driver using a turn signal.

When it comes time to park, the rule of thumb is that if you’re not sure if it’s legal, don’t chance it; the city can get tow-happy, particularly during party times. The list of what you can and cannot do is a bummer: visit neworleansonline.com/tools/transportation/ gettingaround/parking.html for a breakdown.

If you get towed, the impound lot (504-5657450/504-565-7451) is under the Claiborne overpass (400 N. Claiborne Ave.) and it’s never less than $100 to reclaim your car.

Bicycles—Learn to ride with traffic and look out for streetcars. New Orleans is a flat, gridded city and if you know the right routes and what pothole-ridden streets to avoid, you can get from Uptown to the Quarter in 15 minutes. As with vehicles, be on guard, because folks aren’t big on turn signals in this town and if you leave your bike unlocked, consider it stolen. That advice out of the way, local pedalers can count new bike lanes and more parking among their recent good fortunes. Presently sans ‘cycle?

There are plenty of options—in addition to Craigslist—for procuring a set of wheels.

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Bayou Bicycles (3530 Toulouse St., Xavier/Dillard, 504-488-1946, BayouBicycles. com): The oldest bicycle store in the city, Bayou Bicycles has a massive selection of brand-new bikes, which you can test on the paths along Bayou St. John.

Bicycle Michael’s (622 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-945-9505, BicycleMichaels. com): The knowledgeable staff sells and fixes bikes and rents them on a day-by-day basis if you aren’t ready for the commitment.

Big Easy Scooters & Cycles (3926 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-2696465): Along with rentals, this scooter shop services major brands and offers financing for an inventory, including Aprilla, Kymco and Peirspeed.

The Bike Shop (4711 Freret St., 504265-8071, Uptown, TheBikeShopNola. com): This friendly neighborhood shop does everything: buy, sell, trade and repair. They have accessories and used parts, and do fixed gear conversions.

FX Motor Sports (3248 Chippewa St., Irish Channel, 504-267-4517, fxmotorsports. net): Folks in search of a 2-stroke, head to this garage-chic showroom with its TOMOS mopeds, used scooters and motorcycle sales and repair, vintage Vespas and accessories.

GNO Cyclery (1426 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-0023, GNOCyclery. com): A large bike shop located on the newly created bike lanes of Carrollton Ave. Come here for a selection of new bikes, tune-ups, or bike accessories.

Mike the Bike Guy (4411 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-1344, MiketheBikeGuy.com): Mike provides wellpriced bikes and valuable advice on traversing

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New Orleans’ pothole-pitted streets. The shop’s location may be unmarked and difficult to spot, but don’t be afraid to stop by.

New Orleans Bike and Board Shop (8136 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-4439, NewOrleansBikeShop.com): Shop N.O.B.S. for new and used bikes, and skateboards, too.

They also do repairs and vintage restoration.

Plan B: The New Orleans Community Bike Project (1024 Elysian Fields, Marigny, 504-272-7266, BikeProject.org): Plan B is a DIY non-profit collective that allows free use of its tools and staff to assist people in learning to build their own bikes. The prices are dirt cheap, with most completed bikes running well under a hundred bucks, along with low-cost new and used parts. Bonus points for addressing the gender issues present in mechanical environments: they’ve got a for-women, by-women time block reserved for “ladies, trans and sissies only.”

Camellia Grill

Food, Dude! (eats) You’re here and you’re hungry. Lucky you, New Orleans has something for every appetite and budget. From ramen www.OFFBEAT.com

to Rolls Royce taste, early morning brekkie to, well, early morning brekkie, the most blood-seeking steak hounds to the crunchiest of vegans, we’ve got you covered.

Let the Freshman 15 commence.

Breakfast Able The most important meal of the day.

Who are we kidding? The night, too.

Artz Bagelz (3138 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-309-7557, artzbagelz.com): If you want delicious homemade bagels and shmears made daily you go to Artz. New Orleans’ only bagel shop right on Magazine. Have a seat, or get it to go.

Cake Café (2440 Chartres St., Marigny, 504-943-0010, NOLACakes.com): A cozy neighborhood restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dessert. Cake Café specializes in sandwiches and homemade cakes, especially cupcakes.

Camellia Grill (626 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-3092679; 540 Chartres St., French Quarter, 504-522-1800, CamelliaGrill.net): Known for its burgers, po-boys and pies warmed on the grill, Camellia Grill tops the list of classic diners in New Orleans. House-made waffles, omelets and other breakfast delights make for a solid start to the day or end to a night.

Coulis (3625 Prytania St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-304-4265): Some locals were upset when this eatery replaced their beloved breakfast joint the Bluebird Cafe, but they

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soon found Coulis to be a more ambitious alternative. It serves breakfast and lunch daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Oak Street Café (8140 Oak St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-866-8710, OakStreetCafe.com): This breakfast place specializes in omelets, scrambles and biscuits and gravy. The prime location makes it a great place to start a day of shopping on Oak Street.

Riccobono Panola Street Café (7801 Panola St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-314-1810): Try a gracious helping of chocolate and strawberry pancakes or waffles only three blocks from Broadway.

Ruby Slipper Surrey’s Café (139 S. Cortez St., Xavier/Dillard, 504-309-5531; 200 Magazine St., CBD, 504-525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe. net): This red restaurant serves breakfast all day every day, lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and brunch all day on the weekends. Try the Eggs Blackstone, bananas foster French toast, or BBQ shrimp and grits.

Satsuma Cafe (3218 Dauphine St., Bywater, 504-304-5962, SatsumaCafe. com): An extensive breakfast menu offers everything from fruit cups to the One-Eyed Jack, a fried egg in toast covered in avocado and hot sauce. Check out their selection of fresh-squeezed organic juices.

Slim Goodies Diner (3322 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-891-3447): In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, this cash-only hot spot was a meeting place for locals to regroup.

They serve eggs in a variety of styles—with chili, hash browns, bacon and tofu. www.OFFBEAT.com

Stanley (547 St. Ann St., French Quarter, 504-587-0093, StanleyRestaurant.com): You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the Breaux Bridge Benedict (featuring boudin, smoked ham and Creole hollandaise) at the more casual counterpart to the Quarter’s posh Stella! Wash it down with an Italian soda.

Surrey’s Café and Juice Bar (1418 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-5243828; 4807 Magazine St., 504-895-5757, SurreysCafeandJuiceBar.com): Known for its freshly squeezed juices, Surrey’s original menu leans toward flavors from south of the border and features a plate-size peanut butter pancake.

Tartine (7217 Perrier St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-866-4860, TartineNewOrleans. com) This French bakery/sandwich shop features homemade bagels and quiches for breakfast. For lunch, it’s salads and tartines.

Try the open-faced, homemade Pork Rillette and you’ll be hooked. Open MondaySaturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and now on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cooter Brown’s

Po-Boys Aplenty With its many glorious fried varieties, there’s no escaping the state’s signature sub. Praise be.

Cooter Brown’s Tavern & Oyster Bar (509 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504Follow us: facebook.com/offbeatmagazine & @offbeatmagazine

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Creole Creamery

866-9104, CooterBrowns.com): Always packed when there’s a Saints game, this sports bar serves tasty fried seafood po-boys and is within walking distance of Loyola and Tulane.

Domilise’s (5240 Annunciation St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-9126): At lunch time, a long line of eager customers waiting for fried-to-order shrimp and oyster po-boys snakes through Domilise’s. Their roast beef po-boy with hot mustard is delicious.

Favori (7507 Maple St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-8140): Nestled by the Maple Street bars is Favori, a deli popular with students for its delicious po-boys, friendly employees and optional delivery. You can pick up specialty sodas and groceries while you wait for your hot beef brisket, Philly cheese steak, or an enormous po-boy.

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Guy’s Po-Boys (5259 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-891-5025, GuysPoBoys. com): Guy’s specializes in fried shrimp po-boys and also has a great selection of grilled items.

The dining area is small, but these are some of the most affordable sammies in town.

Koz’s (515 Harrison Ave., UNO, 504-4840841, KozCooks.com): Koz’s is considered by many as a must for po-boys and seafood platters in the Lakeview area. Besides offering an extensive menu of local favorites, Koz’s also boasts friendly service in a casual atmosphere and will leave you thinking, “I can’t believe I ate the whole loaf.”

Mahony’s Po-Boy Shop (3454 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-3374, MahonysPoBoys.com): A former sous-chef from high-end seafood restaurant Rio Mar www.OFFBEAT.com

brings a chef’s attention to classic po-boys served both day and night.

Parasol’s (2533 Constance St., Garden District, 504-302-1543, ParasolsBarAndRestaurant.com): Since 1952, this charming dive bar has been a destination every St. Patrick’s Day and any occasion that calls for a roast beef po-boy dripping with brown gravy.

Parkway Bakery and Tavern (538 Hagan Ave., Xavier/Dillard, 504-482-3047, ParkwayPoorboys.com): The still waters of Bayou St. John on a calm day never looked so peaceful. Why? Because you’ve just had a sublime roast beef po-boy at the Parkway.

Sammy’s Food Service & Deli (3000 Elysian Fields Ave., Xavier/Dillard, 504-9470675, SammysFood.com): Along with ravedabout po-boys, Sammy’s “Ray Ray”—fried chicken breast, ham and big-eye Swiss cheese sandwich—won 2010 and 2011 honors at the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival.

Tracey’s (2604 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-899-2054, TraceysNola.com) Located on the corner of Magazine and Third, Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar and Restaurant also wields a mean roast beef po-boy.

Warm Weather Snackin’ There’s more to coolin’ off than just snoballs. (Oh, and that’s shaved ice—not crushed—thankyouverymuch.)

Bee Sweet Cupcakes (5706 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-891-8333, beesweetcupcakes. net): They bake ‘em from scratch daily with the finest chocolate from Germany, France and Belgium, vanilla from Madagascar and fresh fruits. Going to the store is like going home, where you can watch the staff bake and decorate the cupcakes.

Creole Creamery (4924 Prytania St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-894-8680; 6260 Follow us: facebook.com/offbeatmagazine & @offbeatmagazine

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Dat Dog

Vicksburg St., Xavier/UNO, 504-482-2924, CreoleCreamery.com): This independent ice cream shop does all the traditional flavors, but dare to try their more exotic efforts, which change regularly.

Frostbite (4700 Freret St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-265-8604, FrostBiteOnFreret.com): A new yogurt spot on up-and-coming Freret Street, Frostbite features an innovative “bottoms bar” and more toppings than you can think of—ranging from bacon to s’mores bites. This place takes the self-serve trend to a new level.

Hansen’s Sno-Bliz (4801 Tchoupitoulas St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-891-9788, SnoBliz. com): It’s officially summer when this familyowned snoball stand opens and lines start to snake out the door. With shaved ice closer to snow, this isn’t your average snoball.

La Divina Gelateria (3005 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-342-2634; 621 St. Peter St., French Quarter, 504-302-2692;

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300 La Salle Ct., Tulane/Loyola, 504-2582115, LaDivinaGelateria.com): La Divina crafts homemade gelato in a variety of flavors, such as crème brulee, chocolate azteca and pineapple-mint sorbetto. Flavors change with the season.

Meltdown (508 Dumaine St., French Quarter, 504-301-0905): Originally run in an ice cream truck, this exotic sweets shop offers gourmet popsicles featuring flavors like Salty Caramel, Pineapple Cilantro and Blueberry Basil Lime. Follow them on Twitter (@MeltDownPops) for mobile meltdownage.

Pinkberry (5601 Magazine St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-899-4260; 300 Canal St., CBD, 504-899-4260, Pinkberry.com): Escape the heat with a low-calorie treat in one of four flavors garnished with fresh fruits, nuts, honey, chocolate—even cereal—from this California chain.

Plum Street Snoball (1300 Burdette St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-7996, www.OFFBEAT.com

PlumStreetSnoball.com): Established in 1945, Plum Street serves up tasty snoballs in their signature Chinese take-out containers. With flavors from mandarin to cotton candy— both improved with condensed milk—there’s a flavor for everybody.

SnoWizard (4001 Magazine St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-899-8758): This shop is home to the original New Orleans snoball. Flavors range from traditional fruit flavors like nectar to orchid cream vanilla. Try a stuffed snoball with soft-serve ice cream in the center of your icy treat.

Sucre (3025 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-520-8311; 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-834-2277, ShopSucre. com): This sweets boutique specializes in chocolate creations. Top sellers include fresh gelato, French macaroons, handcrafted chocolates and delicious pastries.

Pure Yogurt Culture (8108 Hampson St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-864-8108): A locally owned and operated self-serve yogurt shop located just off of Carrollton Avenue Uptown that offers the luxury of paying for your yogurt by weight. For a special treat, try their “Who Dat?” yogurt.

Cheaper Eats It may cost more than top ramen, but you’ll thank us in the morning—and at lunch the next day. Here’s where to go for the most belt-busting bang for your buck.

August Moon Chinese & Vietnamese Cuisine (3635 Prytania St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-5122, AugustMoonNewOrleans. com): A block away from Superior Grill, this kitchen serves enormous portions of Chinese and Vietnamese favorites.

Dat Dog (5031 Freret St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-6883, DatDogNola.com) Located in the heart of the “New Freret,” Dat Dog has

quickly become a local favorite for authentic German and Louisiana hot dogs. Cash only.

Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria (6215 S. Miro St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-309-2776; 301 N. Peters St., French Quarter, 504-267-4406, FelipesTaqueria.com): Their tacos, burritos and other Mexican food are made to order with tons of salsas and meats to choose from. The location can’t be beat for Tulane and Loyola students.

Five Happiness (3605 S. Carrollton Ave., Mid-City, 504-482-3935, FiveHappiness. com): New Orleans isn’t known for its traditional Chinese food, but Five Happiness is as solid and plentiful as they come.

Fresco Café and Pizzeria (7625 Maple St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-862-6363, FrescoCafe.us): Specialty sandwiches and pizzas keep regulars coming back for more and their spacious wooden terrace is a reason to skip delivery.

Juan’s Flying Burrito (2018 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-569-0000; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., Xavier/Dillard, 504486-9950, JuansFlyingBurrito.com) True to its name, Juan’s specializes in burritos (flying status TBD) to accompany their stiff margaritas and blueberry mojitos. Adding a dash of New Orleans, the place features a Louisiana crawfish queso dip.

Lebanon’s Café (1506 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-862-6200, LebanonsCafe.com): Lebanon’s is a laid-back Middle Eastern joint with low prices and good food. Begin with the special appetizer, an array of humus, baba ganuj, stuffed grape leaves, tabouli and labna.

Midway Pizza (4725 Freret St., Uptown, 504-322-2815, MidwayPizzaNola.com): This deep-dish joint spins playful pies like the King Creole (house-made Creole/Fredo sauce, garlic marinated gulf shrimp, tomato basil relish and green onion) and the Captain Lou (spinach, bacon, chopped tomato,

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Spanish onion) along with the standbys.

Bonus for late-night study marathons: delivery once school gets back in session.

Mona’s Cafe (1120 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-8175; 3901 Banks St., Xavier/Dillard, 504-482-7743; multiple locations): Mona’s has more locations than any other restaurant in this guide. It’s very popular for the same reasons Lebanon’s is: good food, friendly service and you won’t cringe when you see the bill.

Nirvana (4308 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-894-9797, insidenirvana.com): Nirvana has been serving Indian cuisine to the Greater New Orleans area since 1982. Their weekly buffet is a hit—not to mention all the vegetarian options.

A good Indian cook will be able to satisfy anyone’s palate and Nirvana’s got great cooks.

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Reginelli’s (multiple locations, Reginellis.com): This local pizza chain also specializes in salads and sandwiches. On Mondays and Tuesdays, it features $2 pitchers.

Slice (5538 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-8974800; 1513 St. Charles Ave., Garden District, 504-5257437, SlicePizzeria.com): Slice Pizzeria makes pies with meat toppings from andouille sausage to prosciutto di parma and vegetable toppings like yellow corn and artichoke hearts.

Squeal (8400 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-3027370, Squeal-Nola.com): An affordable barbecue joint with an extensive menu and a New Slice Orleans flair.

St. James Cheese Company (5004 Prytania St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-4737, StJamesCheese.com): Get your stinky cheese fix here with their extensive cheese selection.

Sandwiches are made with a considerable selection of quality cold cuts.

Stein’s Market and Deli (2207 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-5270771, SteinsDeli.net): This Jewish/Italian deli serves an array of fine meats and cheeses in several sandwich styles. If you like to cook, check out Stein’s collection of aged balsamic vinegars, oils, rices and pastas while you wait for your order.

Taqueria Corona (5932 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-897-3974, TaqueriaCorona.com): If you’re in the mood for inexpensive, quality Mexican food, this is the ticket. www.OFFBEAT.com

Theo’s Neighborhood Pizza (4218 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-894-8554; 4024 Canal St., Mid-City, 504-302-1133, TheosPizza.com): You could come here just for the $1 draft beer on Tuesdays, but this is arguably one of the best pizzerias in the country if you like thin, crunchy crust.

Local Flavah Oysters, boudin and pralines are just the beginning. Your waistline will testify soon enough.

Casamento’s (4330 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-895-9761, CasamentosRestaurant.com): Established in 1919, this world-famous oyster joint closes for the summer. When it re-opens on September 13, stop by for a raw dozen, a fried oyster loaf, or a soft-shell crab.

Coop’s Place (1109 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-525-9053, CoopsPlace.net): Traditional food done right in the heart of the French Quarter. House specialties include seafood gumbo as well as rabbit and sausage jambalaya.

Elizabeth’s (601 Gallier St., Bywater, 504-944-9272, Elizabeths-Restaurant.com): Hidden from tourists, this gem serves good home cooking and chef Bryon’s seafood sampler, which includes blue cheese oysters, beer BBQ shrimp and seared scallops.

Franky and Johnny’s (321 Arabella St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-9146, FrankyAndJohnnys.com): Their boiled crawfish, shrimp and fried seafood have made Franky and Johnny’s a favorite with tourists and locals.

Jacques-Imo’s (8324 Oak St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-861-0886, JacquesImosCafe. com): Creole soul food from Jacques Imo’s almost always has to be fried and you usually have to wait for it, whether outside on Oak Street or next door at the Maple Leaf.

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Joey K’s (3001 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-891-0997, JoeyKsRestaurant. com): New Orleans dishes, such as fried shrimp platters, po-boys, jambalaya and red beans and rice mean that Joey K’s stays right at home.

Lil’ Dizzy’s (1500 Esplanade Ave., Treme, 504-569-8997; 610 Poydras St., CBD, 504-212-5656): Open for lunch and breakfast, Lil’ Dizzy’s is owned by Wayne Baquet, a member of one of New Orleans’ great Creole restaurant families who dishes up a daily hot lunch buffet that includes its renowned fried chicken.

Liuzza’s (3636 Bienville St., Xavier/Dillard, 504-482-9120, Liuzzas.com): This Mid-City landmark was established in 1947 and serves Italian and New Orleans dishes with a big emphasis on seafood.

Mandina’s (3800 Canal St., Xavier/ Dillard, 504-482-9179, MandinasRestaurant. com): This casual, cash-only spot is ideal for big meals. Mandina’s specializes in the uniquely New Orleans version of Italian Jacques-Imo’s

R&O’s (210 Hammond Hwy., Metairie, 504-831-1248): Nobody leaves R&O’s hungry.

This casual, family restaurant specializes in seafood, Italian favorites and pizza.

Tee-Eva’s (5201 Magazine St. Tulane/ Loyola, 504-899-8350, Tee-EvaPralines.com): Tee-Eva’s Old Fashioned Pies and Pralines serves true Creole soul food. Using Aunt Elizabeth’s

Eva’s famous recipes, her granddaughter continues to produce superb pies, gumbo, jambalaya and pralines.

Toup’s Meatery (845 N. Carrollton, Mid-City, 504-252-4999, toupsmeatery. com): This addition to MidCity cuisine is turning out Cajun staples with flair: the reasonably priced menu features cracklins, hog’s head cheese and rillons, in addition to small and large plates for appetites both meaty and not so much.

Splurge Alert cuisine, but you can find any native dish here: gumbo, shrimp remoulade, soft-shell crab and other fried seafood.

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Planning a big date? Treating yourself?

Consider the following worthy investments. www.OFFBEAT.com

La Boca (857 Fulton St., CBD, 504-5258204, LaBocaSteaks.com): Get a taste of Argentina at La Boca, where beef is king.

Zagat gave La Boca the highest rating among steakhouses in the city for their “unusual” cuts of meat and their housemade sauces.

Boucherie (8115 Jeannette St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-862-5514, Boucherie-Nola. com): Evolved from chef Nathanial Zimet’s kitchen-on-wheels known as “The Que Crawl,” Boucherie is a Riverbend favorite serving contemporary Southern cuisine that speaks for itself. All meats are smoked, cured, aged and prepared in house.

Brigtsen’s (723 Dante St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-7610, Brigtsens.com): Located a few blocks off of the streetcar line in the Riverbend is the magnum opus of awardwinning chef Frank Brigsten. His restaurant is known for its stellar service and Creole Acadian cuisine.

Café Atchafalaya (901 Louisiana Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-891-9626, CafeAtchafalaya.com): In the Upper Garden District, Café Atchafalaya serves contemporary Creole cuisine, such as boudin-stuffed quail and crawfish-stuffed flounder. The weekly Sunday brunch comes with live music.

Clancy’s (6100 Annunciation St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-895-1111): Experience old-time Uptown New Orleans at Clancy’s, where the fried oysters with brie and the soft-shell crab are staples.

Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., Garden District, 504-899-8221, CommandersPalace.com): Institutions don’t always live up to their reputation; Commander’s Palace does. Don’t even try to get in with shorts on, but the food is worth the spiffin’ up.

Cochon (930 Tchoupitoulas St., CBD, CochonRestaurant.com, 504-588-2123): Follow us: facebook.com/offbeatmagazine & @offbeatmagazine

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Culinary icon Donald Link’s latest hot spot (see also: Herbsaint) is not for the faint of heart or small of stomach: think paneed pork cheeks and pickled tongue, alongside smoked beef brisket and oven-roasted Gulf fish.

For a more casual, no less carnivorous nosh, head next door to adjoining sandwich shop Butcher (504-5887675).

La Crepe Nanou (1410 Robert St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-899-2670, LaCrepeNanou.com): There might be a wait, but it’s worth it to eat the tasty mussels and tender beef at this lovely French restaurant, which also features an extensive list of French wines.

Delachaise (3442 St. Charles Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-895-0858,

Verti Marte

TheDelachaise.com): The Delachaise is a cozy restaurant with a view of St. Charles. The classy atmosphere, well-

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LATE-NIGHT DELIVERY You know you need it.

Major “Womp! Womp!” ahead: Delivery isn’t as abundant in New Orleans as you might think, especially as the clock ticks on. Pizza joints may get you to midnight, but after that, the options are few and far between.

NolaFoodDelivery.com is of service for relative early birds. Be sure to check delivery areas.

Daisy Dukes (121 Chartres St., French Quarter, 504-522-2233; 123 Carondelet St., CBD, DaisyDukesRestaurant.com): Breakfast, lunch and dinner to your doorstep. Blackened alligator sausage at 3 a.m.? It could happen.

Déjà Vu (400 Dauphine St., French Quarter, 504-523-1931, DejaVuNola.com): Steak night every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.(!), biscuits and gravy with sausage and chicken-fried steak po-boys round the clock.

Magazine Pizza (1068 Magazine St., CBD, 504-568-0212, MagazinePizza.com): If you’re not feeling the national chains, this local pie peddler delivers until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, midnight otherwise.

Pita Pit (5800 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-899-4141, PitaPitUSA.com): Ring up these folks for sandwiches and vegetarian fare delivered well past the witching hour.

St. Charles Tavern (1433 St. Charles Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-523-9823, StCharlesTavern. com): This college hang is open 24/7, offers pizza, po-boys, and pancakes (French toast, too), and delivers until 2:30 a.m.

Verti Marte (1201 Royal St., French Quarter, 504-525-4767, VertiMarte.com): Tasty sammies and sides served 24/7. Cash only.

Vieux Carre Pizza (733 St. Louis St., French Quarter, 504-529-1999): Straight up, folks: yummy pies comin’ at ya until 4 a.m. www.OFFBEAT.com

chosen wines and spirits and elegant appetizers make it a fine place to linger for an evening.

Lilette (3637 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-895-1636, LiletteRestaurant.com): Located on historic Magazine Street, Lilette boasts a lively dining experience, an impressive wine and cocktail menu and was Commander’s Palace dubbed “the sexiest dining room in New Orleans” by Travel and Leisure.

La Petite Grocery (4238 Magazine Mondo (900 Harrison Ave., UNO, St., Irish Channel, 504-891-3377, 504-224-2633, MondoNewOrleans.com): LaPetiteGrocery.com): Superb French fusion Superstar chef Susan Spicer’s family-friendly fare served in a swanky but comfy brasserie restaurant features upscale pizzas and atmosphere. Try the blue crab beignets with affordable yet elegant entrees. For a more Old Bay aioli, or the local shrimp and grits romantic affair, head to Spicer’s Bayona with shiitake mushrooms, smoked bacon (430 Dauphine St., 504-525-4455, bayona. and thyme. com) in the Quarter.

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Restaurant Patois (6078 Laurel St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-895-9441, PatoisNola. com): Located in the heart of Uptown, Patois uses all local ingredients to prepare elegant dishes, such as potato gnocchi and paneed rabbit. The kitchen was heavily featured in the first season of HBO’s Treme.

The Upperline Restaurant (1413 Upperline St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-891-9822, Upperline.com): The Upperline offers fine dining versions of New Orleans favorites in rooms that are surrounded by the owner’s art collection.

On the Lakefront You’re a bit of a hike away.

Water you gonna do? Get over our bad joke and check out these eateries, that’s what.

Chinese Tea Garden (2170 Filmore Ave., UNO, 504-282-1493, ChineseTeaGardenNola.com): The Tea Garden survived 10 feet of water during Hurricane Katrina, but continues to serve fresh egg rolls and other reasonably priced Chinese cuisine today.

East of Italy Lakefront (6600 Franklin Ave., UNO, 504-286-1022, EastofItaly.com): Formerly Café Roma, this local chain specializes in Louisiana-Italian fusion and the pizza is satisfying for people that like thick, doughy crusts.

Good Time Sushi (5315 Elysian Fields Ave., UNO, 504265-0721): Japanese hibachi and sushi joint that some reviewers at UrbanSpoon.com swear has the freshest fish and best sushi in town.

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Lakeview Brew Coffee Cafe (5606 Canal Blvd., UNO, 504-483-7001, LakeviewBrew.com): This reasonably priced coffee shop gets rave reviews for its soups, salads and sandwiches.

YA-KA-MEIN, YA-KA-YOURS This Southern solution to overindulgence will save your life, or maybe just your day.

The Snuggie of eats, ya-ka-mein— pronounced “ya-ka-mee”—is the closest thing to a cure-all for an evening of overindulgence. With its salty broth of beef, noodles, boiled eggs, scallions and condiments like soy sauce, hot sauce, Worcestershire and ketchup, it’s little wonder this regional staple also goes by “Old Sober.”

As for local “yock” practitioners of this time-honored Creole-Asian stew, none is more known than Ms. Linda Green, The Ya-ka-mein Lady, who offers savory relief at local markets, museums (she does Ogden After Hours), second lines and juggernauts like Jazz Fest and Essence Fest. Follow her on Twitter @OneOfTeamBreezy or online at NewOrleansSoulFood.com.

And if you can’t find Ms. Linda, recent winner of Food Network’s Chopped: Pride of New Orleans, a few other options will set you right: C&A Seafood (1429 S. Jefferson Davis Pkwy., Gert Town, 504-822-8497) Eat-Well Food Mart (2700 Canal St. Ste. A, Mid-City, 504-821-7730) Manchu Food Store and Chinese Kitchen (1413 N. Claiborne Ave., Seventh Ward, 504-947-5507) www.OFFBEAT.com

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Beaucoup Juice

Lakeview Harbor (911 Harrison Ave, UNO, 504-486-4887, Lakeview-Harbor. com): A laid-back establishment featuring big burgers and good gumbo.

Pizza Nola (141 W. Harrison Ave., UNO, 504-872-0731, PizzaNola.com): Specializing in pies, Pizza Nola also serves chicken wings, wraps, pasta and salads.

Russell’s Marina Grill (8555 Pontchartrain Blvd., UNO, 504-2829980, RussellsMarinaGrill.com): Open for breakfast and lunch, this Lakeview institution dishes up classics, such as eggs Benedict and their own egg-oriented creations. “The Morning After” is an omelet filled with sausage, ham, cheese and French fries with a Bloody Mary on the side.

Zimmer’s Seafood (4915 St. Anthony Ave., UNO, 504-282-7150, ZimmersSeafood.webs.com): The seafood is fresh and you’ll regret not trying their shrimp po-boy.

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The Fourth Meal There’s no such thing as “after hours” in New Orleans, but these places satisfy when you’re either too early or too late.

The Balcony Bar (3201 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-894-8888): This bar/ restaurant has an extensive menu and stays open ‘til 3 a.m. on weeknights. Bonus: they deliver.

Bud’s Broiler (3151 Calhoun St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-0906; 500 City Park Ave., Xavier/Dillard, 504-486-2559, multiple locations, BudsBroiler.com) A New Orleans staple, Bud’s Broiler features grilled hamburgers dressed how you like them.

Their Mid-City location is open 24 hours a day, so you can enjoy their signature hickorysmoked sauce, day or night.

The Dough Bowl (1039 Broadway St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-2200): Those in the Tulane/Loyola neighborhood won’t find a more convenient remedy for the late night www.OFFBEAT.com

munchies than this pizza and sandwich joint attached to The Boot.

Hoshun Restaurant (1601 St. Charles Ave., Uptown, 504-302-9716, hoshunrestaurant.com): Open daily until 2 a.m. and with delivery to some areas until 1 a.m., this Asian fusion palace offers a mix of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine, with surprisingly good sushi.

La Peniche (1940 Dauphine St., Marigny, 504-943-1460, lapenicherestaurant.com): Just off of Frenchmen is this unassuming corner spot, which serves eggs, waffles, burgers and deep-fried goodies 24/7, dine in or carry out.

The Taco Truck inside Café Negril (606 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-944-4744): Tucked in the back of Cafe Negril, this go-to cart features tacos loaded with fish, ground beef or chicken that go well with a late night out on Frenchmen Street.

Trolley Stop (1923 St. Charles Ave., Garden District, 504-523-0090): A New Orleans late-night tradition, the Trolley Stop serves breakfast, lunch and dinner 24 hours a day on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Pop-Ups and Food Trucks Hit the streets and the interwebs for some of the best food in town.

When it comes to these bite-sized buzz words, time—and Twitter—is of the essence.

The inherent portability of the latest trend in food on the fly often means here today, gone tomorrow, in more ways than one. Get connected for your tasty fix: Google “popups New Orleans” regularly for the latest developments and visit NOLAfoodtrucks. com for updates.

Empanada Intifada (@EmpanadaIntifad): A self-proclaimed “guerilla” effort, this roving truck hits up music venues and fests around the city, offering mestizo meat pie

and “hobos adobo,” Filipino-style marinated chicken with potato, tomato and rice.

La Cocinita (@LaCocinita): A “little kitchen” with a lot of authentic Latin American flavor, this popular truck can be found everywhere from the Crescent City Farmers Market on Orleans Avenue to Le Bon Temps Roule on Magazine Street.

Pizza Delicious (@PizzaDelicious): Fancy a slice? Keep tabs on these pop-up pie people, who serve New York-style pizza Thursday and Sunday nights (free delivery on Thursdays!) in the Bywater until they move into permanent digs, expected for late 2012.

Streats McGee (@StreatsMcgee): Devour Streats Kukhnya’s Slavic soul food like pierogis and blinis from 5 p.m. to midnight daily in the back of music venue Siberia (2227 St. Claude Ave.).

Taceaux Loceaux (@TLNola): You’ll find these beloved taco slingers around Tulane Square (200 Broadway) during lunch hours and Uptown bars like the Kingpin (1307 Lyons St.) and Dos Jefes Cigar Bar (5535 Tchoupitoulas St.) at night.

The Wandering Buddha (@TheWndrngBuddha): Craving scrumptious all-vegan Korean eats? Check out this popup at the Hi-Ho Lounge (2239 St. Claude), which also offers gluten-free dishes. Delivery by bike is available in some areas.

Green Bein’ Yes, Virginia, there are vegetarians in the Crescent City—quite a few of them.

If bacon isn’t your bag, a cornucopia of non-carnivorous options will please organic and veggie-lovin’ folk. Keep in mind the expected caveat, though: you’re gonna pay a bit more.

Back to the Garden (833 Howard Ave. Ste. 100, CBD, 504-299-8792): Salads, sandwiches, turkey burgers, shakes and soups, all at reasonable prices.

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Beaucoup Juice (4713 Freret St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-430-5508, BeaucoupJuiceNola.com): Have a smoothie made with fresh local fruit and veggies, or a tropical snoball made with real juice, such as the Brazilian Acai berry.

City Greens (909 Poydras St. Ste. 125, CBD, 504-533-0004, EatCityGreens.com): Take your pick of fresh “farm-to-fork” salads, including a truffle Caesar, watermelon and cucumber, or quinoa, kale and corn plate. Design your own, or opt for a wrap with either turkey and avocado, or mango Thai shrimp.

Fresh Bar (6101 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-309-9513, FreshBarNola.com): Skip the salad bar at Whole Foods for the extensive fixin’s in this build-your-own buffet, or try a signature salad like the quinoa and veggie plate. They also do wraps.

Green to Go (GreenToGoNola. com): Follow this family-owned mobile food operation on Twitter (@ GreenToGoNola) for deets on where to find their healthy wares, with an emphasis on organic ingredients.

Greener still, their color-coded salads—”Red” has roasted beets and dried cherries, “Orange” has dried apricots and so on—come your way via bicycles.

Satsuma Café (3218 Dauphine St., Bywater, 504-304-5962, SatsumaCafe.com): The menu at this brekkie and brunch spot is veggie happy, from a tofu-and-black bean scramble to house-made juices and wheatgrass shots.

Superfood Bar (4113 Magazine St., Irish Channel; 2706 Royal St., Bywater, 504-891-7733; Power up

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TO MARKET, TO MARKET These farmers markets will sustain you while growing the local community.

Crescent City Farmers Market (Various days and locations, CrescentCityFarmersMarket.org): The granddaddy of farmers markets visits Uptown, Downtown and Mid-City throughout the week and while everybody’s got their favorite, the Tuesday outing near Audubon Park gets consistently high marks. Stop by 200 Broadway between the Mississippi and Tulane Square from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for fresh, local produce, seafood and more—or visit the MidCity installment on Thursday afternoons (3700 Orleans Ave.) and Downtown’s every Saturday morning (700 Magazine St. at Girod), with live music and cooking demonstrations.

Hollygrove Market and Farm (8301 Olive St., 504-483-7037, HollygroveMarket. com): This produce market, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, offers locally grown fruits and veggies at affordable prices. Along with goods from the ground, you’ll find meat, poultry and dairy, unrefined sugar, preserves and other treats. If you have it, bring $25 and prepare yourself for flatrate seasonal value.

Vietnamese Farmers Market (14401 Alcee Fortier Blvd., New Orleans East): Come here for special legumes, such as chili, okra, lemon grass and snow peas, to say nothing of the live ducks, rabbits, chickens and neighboring shops selling Vietnamese baked goods and imported groceries. This Saturday morning event (6-9 a.m.) is worth the trip. Sell-out risk is high: get there as early as possible. www.OFFBEAT.com

with organic smoothies chock-full of goodfor-you stuff. Try the Spirulina lemonade or coconut green tea.

Vintage and Vinyl (shopping)

Glue Clothing Exchange (8206 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-4336, GlueClothingExchange.com): Glue has affordable button-ups and tacky T-shirts for the style-conscious guy, along with cute patterned dresses, scarves and more for the ladies.

Glue Clothing Exchange

When it comes to shopping, we’ll keep the intro to a minimum, lest we risk going all pushy sales clerk on you. You’re here, you know what you want. So from first-run fashions to second-hand scores, here are the tops in new and “previously owned” stuff.

Used & Vintage Wares Bloomin’ Deals (4645 Freret St., Uptown, 504-897-9128, jlno.org): Proceeds from purchases at this thrift shop, which focuses on clothes—even bridal and evening wear— benefit programs of the Junior League of New Orleans.

Buffalo Exchange (3312 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-891-7443, BuffaloExchange.com): Racks upon racks of quality, name-brand clothing, shoes, costumes and accessories for guys and girls.

Exchange your old wardrobe for cash or store credit.

Funky Monkey (3127 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-899-5587): The Funky Monkey sells vintage clothing, jewelry, accessories and wigs. You can also have personalized T-shirts printed, exchange clothing and shop for Halloween costumes.

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Goodwill (Various locations, headquarters at 3400 Tulane Ave., MidCity, 504-456-2622, Goodwillno.org): Of locations citywide, the huge Mid-City headquarters is a mecca for thrifty Goodwill hunters and easily a day trip.

Lili Vintage Boutique (3329 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-938-6848, LiliVintage.com): Restored and vintage clothes, jewelry and accessories. Goodwill, this is not, but if you’re serious about your second-hand, look no further.

On the Other Hand Resale Boutique (8204 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-8610159): For 25 years, this consignment shop has stocked its racks with designer labels and everything from formal wear to sundresses to denim.

Red, White and Blue Thrift Store (5728 Jefferson Hwy., Harahan, 504-7338066; 605 Lapalco Blvd., West Bank, 504393-1072, RedWhiteandBlueThriftStore. www.OFFBEAT.com

com): You’ll need a car to get to these classic thrift stores, but the bargains are worth the miles.

Retro-Active (5924 Magazine St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-895-5054, RetroActiveVintage. com): This vintage clothing shop has good stuff, including a rad selection of jewelry, hats, gloves and other accessories, but you pay for someone with a good eye to pull such a collection together.

Swap (7716 Maple St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-304-6025, SwapBoutique.com): Highend but relatively affordable consignment store with designer labels and on-trend styles, where you can really make money off of your unwanted clothes.

Truck Stop (2209 Magazine St., Garden District, 302-1895): The “man store” of venerable NOLA outfitter Trashy Diva and your one-stop thrift shop for vintage jeans, belts, pearl-snap shirts and mesh-back caps.

Come here for a wide selection of cowboy boots.

New Clothes Abeille (8438 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-324-3488) This chic Uptown women’s clothing boutique offers a variety of desirable, yet affordable, designer clothing.

Keep an eye out for terrific sales.

American Apparel (3310 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-895-4970, AmericanApparel.com): Part of the Magazine Street fashion district, it’s one of the best places to get quality clothes Uptown.

C. Collection (8141 Maple St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-861-5002, CCollectionNola. com): Whether you’re having dinner with the girls or brunch with your parents, you’ll find the right fit in this boutique’s large selection of contemporary clothing, shoes and accessories.

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Defend New Orleans (1101 First St., Garden District, 504-941-7010, DefendNewOrleans.com): Defend New Orleans’ merchandise celebrates the spirit of the Crescent City with much more than just signature tees.

Dirty Coast Press (5631 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-324-3745, DirtyCoast.com): This tee store on Magazine Street is a huge hit with locals for screened prints that promote a fiercely NOLA-centric point of view.

Fleurty Girl (3117 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-301-2557; 632 St. Peter St., French Quarter, 504-3045529, FleurtyGirl.net): This little line, with a handful of shops throughout the GNO area, offers a variety of clever and culturally inspired clothing. Though its name suggests otherwise, Fleurty Girl also outfits men and children.

Francesca’s Collections (3333 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-8992118; 333 Canal St., Downtown, 581-4402, FrancescasCollections.com): The upscale dress shop branched out from its longtime Canal Place locale to deliver retail therapy to Magazine Street boutique shoppers. Printed dresses, tops and skirts are reasonably priced for students.

Gae-tana’s (7732 Maple St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-865-9625, Gae-Tanas.com): This Maple Street boutique offers sophisticated, classic fashions perfect for any mood or occasion, all at an affordable price.

Gnome (1301 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-309-2288): A funky French Quarter boutique with an ever-changing assortment of hats, shoes, clothes, jewelry, books and magazines.

Hemline (609 Chartres St., French Quarter, 504-592-0242; 3308 Magazine St., Garden District, 269-4005, ShopHemline. com): The first Hemline clothing shop

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Dirty Coast Press

opened up on Chartres Street in 1994.

Today, the ambitious boutique, which carries a large variety of designer clothing, has expanded nationally.

Jean Therapy (5505 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-897-5535, JeanTherapy. com): This Louisiana chain specializes in upscale denim, designer apparel and casual clothing, including vintage New Orleansinspired tees for men, women and children.

LF (5408 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504895-0971, LFStores.com): A trendy boutique marked by fresh, fashion-forward attire.

Perlis (6070 Magazine St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-891-2073, Perlis.com): This New Orleans men’s shop sells dressy and casual clothes, as well as crawfish-emblemed polos.

During Carnival season, their purple, yellow and green rugby shirts are practically a uniform for students.

Skip N’ Whistle (8123 Oak St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-862-5909, SkipNWhistle.com): www.OFFBEAT.com

Browse the scads of quirky tees here— more than 500 local designs for guys, gals and kids, along with other women’s apparel, accessories and gifts.

Traffic Boutique (1025 Bienville St. #1, French Quarter): For hip-hop lovers, Traffic offers stylish (but expensive) men’s clothes, kicks and accessories. The staff will point you to new trends.

Urban Outfitters (400 N. Peters St., French Quarter, 504-558-9459, UrbanOutfitters.com): Shopaholics, fear not: New Orleans has a UO. Although it’s not close to any university, it isn’t hard to get to via public transportation.

Vernon (2049 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-309-5929, VernonClothing.com): Crisp, classic and current garb for gals and guys. Think Brooks Brothers for the younger, sexier set.

Music Get off of iTunes and into these stores.

Domino Sound Record Shack (2557 Bayou Rd., Xavier/Dillard, 504-309-0871): A small vinyl and tape-only store, Domino is a great location for new and used vinyl.

Stop by the ATM first, though; it’s cash only.

Euclid Records (3401 Chartres St., Bywater, 504-947-4348, EuclidNola. com): The longtime St. Louis independent record store has a branch here, facing the Mississippi levee. An excellent selection of new and used vinyl is its calling card.

Louisiana Music Factory (210 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-5861094, LouisianaMusicFactory.com): The quintessential local music store. If a Louisiana musician has an album out, it’s likely to be here. LMF also features regular in-store performances on Saturdays and nearly every day during Jazz Fest.

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The Mushroom (1037 Broadway Jim Russell Rare Records (1837 St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-6065, Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-522-2602, MushroomNOLA.com): This store, on the edge JimRussellRecords.com): Jim Russell Records of the Tulane campus, features new and used CDs and vinyl.

Odyssey Records (1012 local Canal St., CBD, 504-523-3506, OdysseyRecordsNewOrleans.

Stay independent, support the city’s com): Odyssey has a great selection of hip-hop, economy. Visit StayLocal.org for more contemporary and classic R&B information. and jazz.

HELLO

buys, sells and trades everything from popular and rarer New Orleans music to bigger new artists. In addition to CDs and vinyl, the shop has new, used and rare video games.

Skully’z Recordz (907 Bourbon St., French Quarter, 504-592-4666): Hidden far enough away from the rowdy blocks of Bourbon, Skully’z is easy to get to for a quick trip and offers a strong selection of indie music, along with a wide array of local and national music.

Books Domino Sound

Peaches (408 N. Peters St., French Quarter, 504-282-3322, PeachesRecordsNewOrleans.com): After taking over the old Tower Records spot, this shop brought local back to the North Peters shopping strip. Heavy on the R&B and hip-hop, it also sells zydeco, blues and jazz, along with bigger pop names.

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We repeat, get off of iTunes (and Amazon) and get into the stores!

Blue Cypress Books (8126 Oak St., Uptown, 504-352-0096, BlueCypressBooks. blogspot.com): Revel in the smell of old pages, from discount used books to rare finds, not to mention local cookbooks, memoirs, fiction and more.

Faubourg Marigny Art and Books (600 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-947-3700, www.OFFBEAT.com

FabOnFrenchmen.com): A most eclectic browsing experience awaits you at the corner of Chartres and Frenchmen, thanks to old 45s, VHS tapes, erotic art and carefully chosen texts for sale.

The South’s longest standing gay and lesbian bookstore.

Garden District Book Shop (The Rink, 2727 Prytania St., Garden District, 504-895-2266, GardenDistrictBookshop.com): Along with regional and national titles—and beaucoup signed editions—this neighborhood store hosts book groups and author readings. If you can’t manage the trip, you can purchase e-books via the shop’s website.

Maple Street Book Shop (Multiple locations; 7523 Maple St., Riverbend, 504-861-2105, MapleStreetBookShop.com): A hub for literati since 1964, this new, used and rare bookseller is a word nerd’s dream. A packed monthly schedule of events lets patrons get up close and personal with authors and each other.

Online and e-book purchases are available.

Octavia Books (513 Octavia St., Uptown, 504-899-7323, OctaviaBooks.com): Another locally owned bookstore with a solid mix of high-profile and under-the-radar titles, not to mention signings, thoughtful staff recommendations and a warm atmosphere.

Etc. and So Forth…

Crescent City Comics (4916 Freret St., Uptown, 504-891-3796, crescentcitycomics. com): If Free Comic Book Day is a highlight on your yearly calendar, then every day’s a holiday here. All manner of memorabilia, ‘zines, manga and more.

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Maple Street Book Shop

Downtown Tattoo (501 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-266-2211, DowntownTattooNola.com): Got ink? Want some and/or more? You’ll find some of the most gifted tattoo artists in the biz here.

Electric Ladyland (610 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-947-8286, ElectricLadyland. net): Arguably the biggest name for tats in town, and for good reason.

Herb Import Company (5055 Canal St., Xavier/Dillard, 504-488-4889; 711 St. Peter St., French Quarter, 504-525-4372; 712 Adams St., Uptown, 504-861-4644, HerbImport.com): More than just a smoke shop, it sells body care products, vitamins, detox products and sexual enhancers.

Hippie Gypsy (633 Canal St., French Quarter, 504-592-0525): This ‘60s-inspired www.OFFBEAT.com

boutique smoke shop has an extensive selection of tobacco accessories, clothing, incense and tapestries.

Mary Jane’s Emporium (1229 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-525-8004, MaryJanesEmporium.com): M.J.’s is small store packed with a full range of cigarette brands and other smoking materials.

Mayan Import Company (3000 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-2699000): This store was a hub for all things cigar before the fad of recent years, and it has remained committed.

Mid-City Voodoux Tattoos (140 N. Carrollton Ave., Mid-City, 504-278-1465, Voodoux.com): Another established place for quality ink and piercings.

More Fun Comics (8200 Oak St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-8651800): Get your geek on with new and old comics, T-shirts, action figures, graphic novels, collectibles and more.

The Mushroom (1037 Broadway St., Tulane/ Loyola, 504-866-6065, MushroomNOLA.com): The Mushroom is one of a handful of independent record stores in the city, but it also carries hookahs and tobacco pipes. It is located upstairs above the Boot.

Smoke (4507 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-301-9954, smokenola.com): This award-winning smoke shop opened two years ago on hip, historic Magazine Street, nestled in uptown New Orleans just past Napoleon Street. Stop in and say “What’s up” to Bernadette.

Ra Shop (8128 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-864-8288; 3812 Veterans Memorial

Blvd., Metairie, 504-889-8436, RaShop.us): The statewide Ra chain is a hit with local smoking enthusiasts because of its large selection of products. It has pipes, hookahs, clothes, piercings, gaming supplies, detox supplies, self-defense supplies and cigarettes.

Up in Smoke HQ (2101 Magazine St., Garden District, 504-899-0005, UpinSmokeNewOrleans.com): Up in Smoke features locally blown glass accessories and an assortment of tobacco paraphernalia.

Uptown Tattoos (575 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-3859, UptownTattoo. net): This convenient Riverbend district studio is well versed in custom and classic work and a variety of styles.

Downtown Tattoo

Slack On, Slack Off (activities and culture—what to do) You’re here—but you’re bored?!

Notwithstanding that looming term paper and, we dunno, the city of freaking New Orleans before you, let’s banish that thought ASAP with ways

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hospitals and outpatient transfusion facilities in the region. One day it may serve you. Pay it forward while you can. Visit the organization’s website for details on places to donate and mobile drives, or consider giving at Ochsner Medical Center (1516 Jefferson Hghwy., 504-842-3375, Ochsner.org).

Volunteer at Rebuilding Together New Orleans (504-636-3058, rtno. org): This Habitat for Humanityesque effort needs folks of all skill levels to help rebuild the homes of low-income elderly and disabled individuals throughout the GNO area. Since 2005, more than 18,000 volunteers have donated upwards of 400,000 hours to rebuild 220 homes.

Of course, there’s the NOLA branch of Habitat for Humanity (504-8612077, Habitat-Nola.org), in addition Ra Shop to HandsOn New Orleans (504-4837041, HandsOnNewOrleans.org), a to get involved, things to do and tons volunteer hub that will connect you of other options that put the “extra” in with citywide service opportunities that meet extracurricular activities. your schedule and interests. Go on—do good, feel good, and get to know some For starters… amazing people in the process.

Be a movie extra: Louisiana ranks behind only Los Angeles and New York For LGBTQ students… for TV and film production, with A-listers The LGBT Community Center of New and indie types alike flocking to the area Orleans (2114 Decatur St., Marigny, 504for moviemaking magic. On any given day, 945-1103, lgbtccneworleans.org) provides there are numerous chances to rub elbows, information, resources and referrals to the or at least ogle, the famous and soon-tocommunity. Students can join for just $15 be-famous. Getting a gig means long hours a year. Visit the organization’s website for and a lot of hurrying up to wait, but it’s a details on support groups, safe spaces, how story to tell and some spending money. Visit to volunteer and more.

FilmNewOrleans.org for information on how The Metropolitan Community to get started.

Church of Greater New Orleans (1333 Give blood (The Blood Center, various S. Carrollton Ave., Uptown, 504-214locations, 504-524-1322, TheBloodCenter.

4340, BigEasyMCC.com) is an inclusive org): The Blood Center serves more than 30 congregation with worship services

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www.OFFBEAT.com

for individuals of all orientations and denominations.

Now in its 30th year, the New Orleans Gay Men’s Chorus (504-322-7007, nogmc. com) welcomes gay men to join them in song, regardless of experience or skill level.

Rehearsals are held each Tuesday evening.

The NO/AIDS Task Force (NOAIDSTaskForce.org) aims to reduce the spread of HIV infections, provide services and advocate for HIV-affected individuals.

Contact the main office (2601 Tulane Ave. Ste. 500, Mid-City) at 504-821-2601, or the Community Awareness Network office (507 Frenchmen St., Marigny) at 504-945-4000 for more information and to volunteer.

The NOLA Softball League (NolaSoftball.com), a member of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance, welcomes new players at the start of its slow-pitch seasons and presents the annual Bourbon Street Classic every fall.

PFLAG New Orleans (504-862-5912, pflagno.org) celebrates family “New Orleans style” with monthly meetings held every second Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Central St. Matthew United Church of Christ (1333 S. Carrollton Ave., Uptown). The organization also presents various anti-bullying and outreach efforts.

I Like Mic You know who you are. Let your star shine at these karaoke dens.

A college favorite, Little Tokyo (1340 S. Carrollton Ave., Uptown, 504-861-6088, LittleTokyoNOLA.com) is big fun, with everything from sushi to small plates, live bands to comedy—and karaoke every night in the dining room. The restaurant has four private rooms of varying sizes available for rent, complete with full karaoke sets. Fees start at $20 an hour, but food and drink Follow us: facebook.com/offbeatmagazine & @offbeatmagazine

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purchases can cancel out the room cost.

Call 861-6088 for details and to make a reservation.

Cat’s Meow (701 Bourbon St., French Quarter, 504-523-2788, CatsKaraoke.com): This Quarter venue bills itself as “the world’s best karaoke bar.” Step up and decide for yourself.

Kajun’s Pub (2256 St. Claude Ave., Marigny, 504-947-3735, KajunPub.com): With an intimidatingly massive songbook, if this dive doesn’t have your tune on deck, no one does.

The Saint (961 St. Mary St., Garden District, 504-523-0050, TheSaintNewOrleans.com): One word, four syllables—“Tikioki.” Extra points for the large capacity photo booth.

Dance It Off Get your freak on.

Ampersand (1100 Tulane Ave., CBD, 504-587-3737, ClubAmpersand.com): Ampersand has a busy, clubby atmosphere, a stylish dark lounge decked out with white couches, a long bar, a high-ceiling stage and a dance area. The venue has hosted great electronic acts such as Deadmau5 and MSTRKRFT. Eiffel Society (2040 St. Charles Ave., Garden District, 504-525-2951, EiffelSociety. com): This club features a restaurant with a new tapas menu. Check ahead before going there to eat or dance, as there could be a private party.

Le Phare (523 Gravier St., CBD, 504-6361890, LePhareNola.com): This posh dance space located in downtown New Orleans hosts themed dance nights every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

The Hookah (309 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-943-1101, Hookah-Club.com): This dance space is equipped with two bars,

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a spacious dance floor and a stage for live music. It draws a cool crowd and offers VIP areas.

Maison (508 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-371-5543, MaisonFrenchmen.com): A part of Frenchmen’s vibrant music scene, Maison hosts DJs upstairs on the weekend.

Friday is frequently Latin night while Saturdays are geared toward electronica, hip-hop and other dance music.

The Metropolitan (310 Andrew Higgins Dr., CBD, 504-568-1700, TheMetropolitanNightClub.com): Located in a renovated warehouse in the CBD, this stylish venue boasts three rooms and six full bars.

Mimi’s in the Marigny (2601 Royal St., Marigny, 504-872-9868): On Saturday nights, DJ Soul Sister fills the dance floor upstairs spinning soul, funk and disco in this hip neighborhood joint.

Oz (800 Bourbon St., French Quarter, 504-593-9491, OZNewOrleans.com): This straight-friendly gay club is ideal for a girls’ night out; half-naked men dance on the bar and radio hits spin into techno beats.

Republic (828 S. Peters St., CBD, 504528-8282, RepublicNOLA.com): The cover’s reasonable in this dance club, which often hosts live shows. Friday is “Throwback Night,” featuring music from the ’80s.

The Saint (961 St. Mary St., Garden District, 504-523-0050, TheSaintNewOrleans.com): This rock joint was renovated from an old tavern and caters to live indie and punk bands, along with late night dance parties.

Live From New Orleans…

It’s music every night at these venues.

The Allways Lounge & Theatre (2240 St. Claude Ave., Marigny, 504-218-5778, TheAllwaysLounge.net): With a lounge up www.OFFBEAT.com

front and a theater in the back, the Allways is a prime place for the emerging theater scene in New Orleans. Music acts range from hip-hop to burlesque to indie rock, and if what’s here doesn’t speak to you, you’re steps from the Hi-Ho Lounge and Siberia.

Banks Street Bar (4401 Banks St., Xavier/ Dillard, 504-486-0258, BanksStreetBar.com): This intimate bar in Mid-City rarely has a cover and often features bands on the upswing or artists testing out new ideas.

Blue Nile (532 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-948-2583, BlueNileLive. com): Located in the heart of the Frenchmen Street club scene, Blue Nile presents local, brass-oriented music by such local heroes as Kermit Ruffins and the Soul Rebels.

Circle Bar (1032 St. Charles Ave., CBD, 504-588-2616): This cozy Lee Circle spot, with its Victorian architecture and red walls, books quality acts of all sonic stripes. d.b.a. (618 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-942-3731, DrinkGoodStuff.com): d.b.a. often showcases local artists and the bar is stocked with more than 160 different beers.

House of Blues (225 Decatur St., French Quarter, 504-310-4999, HouseofBlues.com): Catch local stars and national music acts at this two-story venue that has multiple stages, bars and a restaurant.

Maison

The Howlin’ Wolf (907 S. Peters St., CBD, 504-522-9653, TheHowlinWolf.com): The Howlin’ Wolf hosts national touring acts, funk icons, local metal and indie hiphop in a spacious converted theater.

IClub (614 Canal St., Downtown, 504-5276712, iclubneworleans.com): Located in the JW Marriott, the IClub is one of the sleekest new editions to the New Orleans music scene. Its music bills span the genres of jazz, blues, funk, rock, Latin, Afro-Cuban, Cajun and Zydeco.

The classy atmosphere and laid-back vibe make it a destination, especially for Kermit Ruffins’ Wednesday evening DJ sessions.

Le Bon Temps Roule (4801 Magazine St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-897-3448): The front

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room at Le Bon Temps is a pool hall; the back is an intimate showroom that hosts funky bands and roots rock.

Maison (508 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-371-5543, MaisonFrenchmen.com): Frenchmen mainstay Maison is a great place to catch local brass and jazz names, as well as the occasional touring act.

The Maple Leaf Bar (8316 Oak St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-866-9359, MapleLeafBar.com): Tuesday night’s Rebirth Brass Band sets have led many a student to struggle into class come Wednesday morning. The rest of the week, the Leaf tends toward jamoriented funk.

Prytania Theater

One Eyed Jacks (615 Toulouse St., French Quarter, 504-569-8361, OneEyedJacks.net) Consisting of two rooms—a small barroom that leads to a seemingly hidden showroom—

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One Eyed Jacks hosts burlesque and major music shows alike in a converted theater, which affords good sight lines.

Republic (828 S. Peters St., CBD, 504528-8282, RepublicNOLA.com): When it’s not a dance club, Republic presents local and touring indie rock and dance artists.

MOVIE THEATERS NOLA Drive-In (840 Carondelet St., CBD): Join this open group on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter (@NolaDriveIn) for info on upcoming rooftop screenings.

Prytania Theater (5339 Prytania St., Tulane/Loyola, 504-891-2787, ThePrytania. com): Visit the single-screen theater where Confederacy of Dunces’ Ignatius J. Reilly belched and scoffed at the illegitimacy of Hollywood. It’s still in operation and features first-run movies as well as classics and midnight cult favorites on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Theatres at Canal Place (333 Canal St., French Quarter, 504-581-5400, TheTheatres.com): Inside Canal Place’s Shopping Center on the third floor, this small theater offers a full bar, dinner menu and huge leather seats. Try the white truffle oil popcorn.

Zeitgeist Multi-Disciplinary Arts Theater (1618 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., Central City, 504-352-1150, ZeitgeistInc. net): Zeitgeist is an independent movie theater and experimental arts venue on Oretha Castle Haley. The films are for niche audiences, but Zeitgeist is curated with the intelligence and taste of an art gallery. www.OFFBEAT.com

Circle Bar

Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-895-8477, Tipitinas.com): This world-famous venue with a roadhouse vibe is the musical home for stellar funk musicians, including Trombone Shorty, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Galactic.

For Show… a.k.a. Where To Take The ‘Rents.

Rock ‘n’ Bowl (3000 S. Carrollton Ave., Tulane/Loyola, 504-861-1700, RockNBowl. com): Grab a lane and listen to some live music at this bowling alley-slash-venue.

Weekly theme nights include zydeco and swing dance, and hula-hoops are always available. Call the day prior to reserve a bowling lane on a weekend night.

Saturn Bar (3067 St. Claude Ave., Bywater, 504-949-7432): A funky, hipsterfrequented dive with funky, hipster-leaning live music to match. DJs and a jukebox fill out the (nil) silence.

Snug Harbor (626 Frenchmen St., Marigny, 504-949-0696, SnugJazz.com): The best club on Frenchmen for contemporary, first-rate jazz music. The music room has a relaxed atmosphere where you can sip and sit while enjoying the show.

A family visit can be as intimidating a proposition as the folks becoming your Facebook friends.

There are many factors to consider: what kind of tone to set, how much to spend, what relative you’ll be entertaining—your cool Uncle Doug or your reserved Grandma Clara. Don’t sweat it. Read on and play tour guide to “ooh”s, “ah”s and “thank you”s.

Audubon Zoo and affiliated attractions (6500 Magazine St., Uptown, 504-212-5301, AudubonInstitute. org): Opened in 1914, this 58-acre complex, home to 2,000 animals, isn’t just child’s play. The Institute’s separate Aquarium of the Americas and IMAX theater (1 Canal St., 504-581-4629) are alone worth a day trip. Factor in the main grounds’ park, native swamp exhibit, and “Cool Zoo” splash zone for the youngest ones, and your week is booked and then some.

Backstreet Cultural Museum (1116 St. Claude St., Treme, 504-522-4806, BackstreetMuseum.org): Backstreet is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of New Orleans’ rich AfricanAmerican culture, particularly Mardi Gras Indian culture. It’s housed in a Creole cottage in Treme, and is also a

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Backstreet Cultural Museum

terrific resource to learn more about the ceremonial second line tradition.

Cemetery Tours (SaveOurCemeteries. org): If you’re from out of town and used to grave markers, you may be surprised by the giant crypts that crowd New Orleans cemeteries. We house our dead above ground, making for elaborate tombs and great cemetery tours.

Gallery Openings (CACNO.org): Art for Art’s Sake and White Linen Night are the best-known nights of coordinated contemporary gallery openings in the Arts District and on Magazine Street.

On that note, don’t miss the Royal Street counterpart, Dirty Linen Night (ArtsCouncilOfNewOrleans.org). Elsewhere, free street parties take place the first Saturday of every month in the galleries on and around Julia Street. On the second Saturday, many galleries on St. Claude Avenue in the Bywater present their coordinated openings.

Haunted New Orleans Tours (504861-2727, HauntedHistoryTours.com):

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Haunted History Tours offers ghost, vampire and voodoo walking tours that are part history and part performance art focused on New Orleans’ dark myths and legendary past.

National World War II Museum (945 Magazine St., CBD, 504-528-1944, DDayMuseum.org): Formerly known as the D-Day Museum, the WWII Museum features a full-scale educational tour of the history behind the war. The story is also told through film and live performances in the Stage Door Canteen. The complex includes chef John Besh’s restaurant, The American Sector, created in the spirit of the times.

New Orleans Museum of Art (1 Collins Diboll Circle, Xavier/Tulane/Loyola/UNO, 504-658-4100, NOMA.org): Located in City Park, NOMA’s permanent collection houses more than 40,000 pieces that present the artistic history of New Orleans and America.

It also features visiting exhibitions that showcase some of the world’s top artistic talent. All attending a local university get free admission to the museum. www.OFFBEAT.com

Ogden Museum of Southern Art (925 Camp St., CBD, 504-539-9600, OgdenMuseum.org): Located just off of Lee Circle, the Ogden boasts the largest collection of Southern art in the world.

Visit on Thursday nights for live local music from 6 to 8 p.m.

Presbytere and Cabildo (751 Chartres St., French Quarter, 504-568-6968): These twin museums sandwich one of New Orleans’ most iconic landmarks, the St. Louis Cathedral. The exhibitions in these galleries span the city’s high and lowbrow cultures.

Cheap Thrills Experience New Orleans culture for next to nothin’.

Ride the Algiers Ferry (1 Canal St., French Quarter, FriendsOfTheFerry.org): In operation since 1827, the ferry runs daily from 6 a.m. to a quarter past midnight and departs from the New Orleans side, at the foot of Canal Street, at :15 and :45 past the hour. Once on the West Bank— sometimes referred to (un)affectionately as the Wank—have a stroll around Algiers Point’s quiet, funky village community before heading back to the Quarter. The trip is free for pedestrians and bikers and provides picturesque vistas of the city. A no-brainer, and a must-do for everybody.

Skip the tours and roam the St. Louis Cemeteries on your own. The entrance to Cemetery No. 1 (425 Basin St.), home to the final(?) resting place of voodoo queen Marie Laveau, lies just outside the French Quarter. Open to the public, this mix of above-ground tombs, outdoor mausoleums and general disrepair is a crash course in Greek and classical revival architecture, not to mention New Orleans atmosphere.

It goes without saying, but explore during daylight hours.

People-watch in Jackson Square (at Chartres and St. Peter St., French Quarter, Jackson-Square.com). You know the tourist tag line “Only in New Orleans”? Observe as it comes to life in this Quarter melting pot of street performers, card readers and altogether interesting characters. While you’re at it, stroll the French Market, and along the way, lend an ear to the many musicians—but be sure to tip ‘em. It’s courtesy, and deserved.

Drop by the Historic New Orleans Collection (533 Royal St., French Quarter, 504-523-4662, HNOC.org): A museum, research center and gift shop, the HNOC is a place for all things related to New Orleans history, with permanent displays and changing exhibitions. It’s also a pleasant, air-conditioned stop-in when window-browsing on Royal Street.

Spend some quality time in the Sculpture Garden at City Park (1 Collins Diboll Circle, Xavier/Tulane/Loyola/UNO, 504-658-4100, NOMA.org/sgarden). With its sweeping oak trees and more than 60 world-class works of art, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a Mid-City treasure, made all the more marvelous by its free admission—and benches for reading, studying and just plain chilling out in the shade. NOMA hosts classic movie screenings on the grounds, for a nominal admission. Come late October, it plays host to the (neither free, nor nominally priced, but rather fabulous) Voodoo Music Experience.

No Really, I’m A Local (a primer in how to prove it) Just once more and with feeling— you’re here. And like any evolved

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Today, the eight-block stretch between Jefferson and Napoleon Avenue comprises the “New Freret,” home to many shops, bars, restaurants, art galleries and other useful services. The close proximity of this district to both Tulane and Loyola University makes it the perfect location for students to spend their free time. The street is lined with shops and galleries like Bloomin’ Deals Thrift Store, Crescent City Comics, DuMois Gallery and The Bike Shop. It’s also home to neighborhood restaurants, such as Dat Dog, Freret Street Poboys & Donuts, High Hat Café, Midway Pizza, Sarita’s Grill and Village Coffee and Tea, with more to open any time now. Expect a new 3,000-square-foot deli in the 4500 block, three new music venues and Dat Dog’s foray into desserts by the close of 2012.

The timely evolution of Freret Street— dubbed “newly trendy” by the New York Times—as a cultural destination has also helped it develop a vibrant and growing nightlife. Cure is a converted firehouse that offers a modern, uncompromising take on

Sculpture Garden at City Park

creature, you’re eager to blend in with the native surroundings, if not to survive, and to not look like that guy. Having leafed through the bulk of these pages, don’t leave quite yet.

Familiarize yourself with the following districts, dates and lingo—you’ll know NOLA all the better for doing so.

Four For The Road Melting pots of art, commerce, cuisine and character, these are neighborhoods worth knowing.

Freret Street: Throughout the ‘80s, Borsodi’s coffee house was a bohemian safe haven on Freret Street where students, dramatists, poets and artists gathered over coffee and tea. The then-sleepy street largely got sleepier over the years with a few exceptions, but in 2007, the City Planning Commission approved the Freret Street Arts and Culture Overlay, which made it easier for restaurants and nightlife venues to open, provided they close by midnight.

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Freret Street

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the traditional cocktail bar, one that prides itself for its civility and sophistication. La Nuit Comedy Theatre offers a space for individuals to enjoy live entertainment.

Finally, Freret Street is also home to recurring events that have quickly become traditions for locals—among them, the Freret Street Market, a lively neighborhood happening held every first Saturday of the month between September and June. For more information, visit TheNewFreret.com.

Magazine Street: With its tony stretch of antique shops, art galleries, retail boutiques and upscale bars and eateries, this neighborhood’s name suits it to a tailored, camera-ready T. Magazine Street, bookended downriver at Canal and the French Quarter, runs through Audubon Park and spans six miles of residential and commercial neighborhoods in Uptown and the Garden District.

The street’s moniker is a nod to a warehouse built in the late 1700s that housed products awaiting export. These days, Magazine is a well-traveled, wellheeled shopper’s dream. Its numerous home décor stores are matched by the exterior eye candy of the district’s mid19th Century Greek Revival and Victorian architecture.

Visitors need not be living large to enjoy the charms of this promenade, however.

Young creatives and college students can be found parked at Artz Bagelz or grabbing coffee and wi-fi at CC’s. Po-boy purveyors schmooze with wine cellars and chocolatiers. Grab a pint at The Bulldog and a macaroon at Sucre, and swing by Vom Fass to pick up gourmet cooking oil or vinegar. Magazine may have a ladieswho-lunch rep, but it still packs a preppy, cool vibe, thanks to sharp, on-trend outfitters like Vernon. With Velvet Espresso Follow us: facebook.com/offbeatmagazine & @offbeatmagazine

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Magazine Street

Bar, Chez Nous Charcuterie, and Blue Frog Chocolates within nibbling distance of each other, it’s also one-stop shopping for stocking a picnic basket, or wooing a crush over dinner. Reserve a table at third generation seafood haven Casamento’s, the award-winning Upperline, or intimate Lilette—with its divine white truffle Parmigiano toast—and consider yourself golden.

The bottom line: Magazine is as highbrow or lo-fi as you want to play it. Go budget-conscious with window-shopping and Pinkberry one afternoon, or sign up for a pottery class, splurge on a spa treatment, or just stop and smell the flowers.

Wide-brimmed hat optional. For more information, visit MagazineStreet.com.

Maple Street: Location, location, location. It’s no wonder Maple Street, the Lower Carrollton answer to Oak, is a mainstay among Loyola and Tulane crowds.

Students, faculty and alumni alike frequent this neighborhood’s cafes, restaurants, pubs and boutiques, which seem to coexist at a more leisurely pace than on Magazine and other stretches. At least for now.

Rooting this six-block alcove in local history—and knowledge—is Maple Street Book Shop, one of the city’s oldest

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Maple Street

independently owned and operated booksellers. For the last half century, this shotgun-house-turned-New-Orleansinstitution has served the community.

Its shelves emphasize homegrown literature and its back porch is the perfect reading room. The shop comes with an added measure of neighborhood cred: Confederacy of Dunces scribe John Kennedy Toole lived just a block away, on the corner of Hampson and Adams.

Down the street, students get their caffeine fix and wi-fi hookup at coffee joints like PJ’s, or grab a croissant at Maple Street Patisserie. There’s plenty of new and used retail therapy to be had, from Gaetana’s and C. Collection to the designer consignment finds at Swap. Hunger pains call for a short walk to 75-year-old Bruno’s, with its weekly half-off dining specials for students and welcome distractions— shuffleboard, darts, pool and more. Along with the prohibition-era tavern, nearby pizzeria Fresco is another longstanding collegiate go-to.

These and other faves, like Maple Street Café, will be getting a high-profile neighbor in the near future, thanks to a certain Saints quarterback. Drew Brees made contract-related headlines of a different sort in early summer 2012, www.OFFBEAT.com

when despite some local backlash over a perceived fast-food setup, the latest in his Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop franchise—pegged for the 7600 block—was unanimously approved by city council. For more information, head to VisitMapleStreet.com.

Oak Street

Oak Street: An eclectic six-block stretch of old and new, traditional and trendy, Oak Street is gaining on higher-profile thoroughfares like Magazine. Need a coffee table—and a latte, while you’re at it? How about a box of nag champa on your way respective menus, and Oak Wine Bar’s small to pick up those alterations? Oak’s got plate approach, the community is straddling something for yuppies, hippies and everybody the line between Main Street U.S.A. and in between. The convenience of the nearby cosmopolitan fare.

St. Charles streetcar line doesn’t hurt, either.

That’s not to say Oak isn’t a NOLA Smack dab in the Carrollton district, this neighborhood at heart. On the contrary, a day historic neighborhood dates back to the early 1800s, prior to New Orleans’ annexation of the directions then Riverbend town. Changes continued into the mid-20th Forget about North, East, West and Century, when Lynward “Bud” Adams opened his Family Barber South. Use bodies of water instead: Shop, still in the business of lakeside, riverside, uptown (upriver) and cutting hair and sharing local lore today. downtown (downriver).

Along with Adams’ shop, the current incarnation of Oak Street is anchored by day by longtime fixtures Paul’s Framing and Haase’s, the destination shoe store dating back to 1921. The Maple Leaf, with its weekly gigs spent strolling here unearths stories before

by New Orleans’ powerhouses the Rebirth the recent road-widening, before Katrina— Brass Band and Papa Grows Funk, draws hell, before the Kennedy administration. Still tourists and locals alike. So does Jacques-Imo’s sketchy at times, Oak is a charming brew of soul food next door. second-hand stores like Blue Cypress Books But there’s a new crop of restaurants and Glue Clothing Exchange and fashionbehind the buzz of late: Led by the modern forward retailers like Abeille NOLA and Fleurty sushi stylings of Chiba, the unpretentious Girl. Keep an eye—and a nostril—open for cuts from Cowbell’s and Squeal Bar-B-Q’s Breads On Oak, a new bakery set to expand

HELLO

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its hours in fall 2012, just in time for the neighborhood’s annual Po-Boy Festival. For more information, visit OnlyOnOak.org.

Save The Dates

November 18, 2012: Po-Boy Fest (PoBoyFest.com) More than just a sandwich in New Orleans, po-boys are a way of life.

Down here, folks live and die by their favorite purveyors, swearing lifelong allegiances to

HELLO

There’s more to attending school in New Orleans than mardi gras cheap drink specials and bread pudding on tap in your It’s time to start working on that dining hall. Keep these dates in mind when scheduling costume. Hit Jefferson Variety (on Iris your classes for fall and Avenue in Jefferson) and Broadway spring.

Bound (on Canal Street) for supplies.

September 9, 2012: The clock strikes noon for the first game of da Saints’ NFL season (NewOrleansSaints. com), when all joyous hell will break loose in Saints Nation. The black-and-gold will march into the Superdome to take on the the roast beef of Parkway Bakery, Johnny’s, Washington Redskins. Seriously, though— or Domilise’s, among others. A neighborhood regardless of your personal feelings about the celebration of the iconic sub, this annual event Saints and the pigskin in general—get used draws carb-o-loading fans citywide to Oak to their presence in your life. New Orleans Street at Carrollton. is a football town, and the mood of the city January 6, 2013: Twelfth Night—As during the week often reflects directly on Christian theology explains it, the 12th eve whether or not the Saints won the previous after Christmas signals the start of Carnival Sunday. Catch the first game of the season season, a wash of parades, masquerade with 100 of your closest friends down at balls, King Cakes and throws—beads and Champions Square and see what awaits you otherwise. Among the most coveted spoils, a for the next few years. Oh, and if you don’t hand-decorated high-heel from the all-ladies have a jersey by now, you’d be wise to pick Krewe of Muses and a coconut, or “golden one up. Get all in, and “Get Crunk!” Don’t nugget,” from the Zulu Social Aid and question, just Google.

Pleasure Club.

October 26-28, 2012: Voodoo Music February 3, 2013: Super Bowl XLVII Experience (TheVoodooExperience.com) (NolaSuperBowl.com) You may have Generations X and after flock to City Park overheard somewhere that this sporting for this Halloween weekend alt music and event will be held in the Crescent City. It’s culture fest. Green Day, Jack White, Skrillex kind of a big deal—and if 2010 victors and the decidedly older-school but no-lessthe Saints make it in this hometown cool Neil Young and Crazy Horse headline championship? Expect more “Who the 2012 bill. dat?”ing, crunking and unchecked fleur-

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power than you can fathom. Geaux Saints!

February 12, 2013: Fat Tuesday (MardiGrasNewOrleans.com) The day before Ash Wednesday—the start of Lent—is a legal holiday in these parts. Dress up, don a mask and—to quote Professor Longhair—“go to the Mardi Gras.” Note: New Orleans’ hosting of Super Bowl XLVII means Carnival festivities will break for nine days and resume after the game.

March 17, 2013: Super Sunday— Set each year to coincide with St. Joseph’s Day, March 19, Super Sunday is second only to Fat Tuesday for the city’s proud Mardi Gras Indians, who after a year of meticulously constructing, feathering and beading elaborate full-body costumes, suit up to roam the streets in their finest. The highest compliment they can hope to receive is being told they’re the “prettiest”—and they’re all stunningly pretty.

April 11-14, 2013: French Quarter Fest (FQFI.org)—A free festival and a living, breathing, playing testament to New Orleans’ musical culture, this weekend of impromptu street parades, performances and “the World’s Largest Jazz Brunch” is a favorite among locals. The action is centered around the Riverwalk, Jackson Square and Lafayette Square Park and spills throughout the Quarter. Have we mentioned that admission costs nothing?

April 26-May 5, 2013: New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (NOJazzFest.com)—International headliners and local legends descend upon Mid-City’s Fair Grounds Race Course for two weekends of music, arts and crafts and enough ridiculously good, authentic food to tide you over to the next year. You’ll

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likely realize later rather than sooner that Jazz Fest dates coincide almost directly with final exams for most university students.

That said, plan ahead—way ahead—and don’t miss one of the most unique music events in the country, which in 2012 alone drew Bruce Springsteen, the Eagles, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the Foo Fighters and the Beach Boys.

VITAL PRONUNCIATIONS No matter how much of a stickler for enunciation you consider yourself, “Where y’at?” will leave your mouth when you least expect it. Dat is for sure. (More often than not, the common greeting asks how you are, not your GPS info, by the way.) As for these terms, it’ll take some mental, if not physical, doing.

Tchoupitoulas is pronounced CHOP-iTOO-las.

Audubon is AW-du-bin.

Burgundy is burGUNdy. Calliope is KAL-ee-ope.

Chartres is CHARTers.

Leonidas is Lee-AHN-dis.

Milan is MYlan.

Orleans by itself, as in the parish, the avenue—or in certain cases a rhymed verse you’ll hear on the ‘OZ—is pronounced OrLEENZ. However…

And last but not least, it is pronounced New OrLINS, not New OrLEENZ and never N’AWlinz or New OrLEEuns. Not by locals. …Of which you now are one. Again, welcome, and see ya’ round. www.OFFBEAT.com