New Orleans Magazine January 2013 by Renaissance Publishing

JANUARY 2013

WYES Presents SEASON 3 OF “DOWNTON ABBEY”

myneworleans.com

$4.95

On the web FEATURING... For all things New Orleans and Louisiana, head to MyNewOrleans.com for a smattering of recipes, home décor ideas, style tips and articles on hot topics. Make sure to sign up for the MyNewOrleans.com Daily Newsletter, which delivers fresh content and information on New Orleans’ top events to your inbox every day. If you’re looking for some inspiration for the new year, read Louisiana Life’s “Louisianians of the Year” by Kathy Finn. The feature profiles eight movers and shakers, including Tom Benson, Tab Benoit and more, who are doing lots of good things for the Pelican State. Check out the article at MyNewOrleans.com.

January 2013 VOLUME 47 NUMBER 4 Editor Errol Laborde Managing Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Eric Gernhauser Associate Editors Haley Adams and

Sarah Ravits Contributing Editor Liz Scott Monaghan Food Editor Dale Curry Dining Editor Jay Forman Wine and Spirits Editor Tim McNally Restaurant Reporter Robert Peyton Home and Garden Editor Bonnie Warren Intern Johanna Gretschel

SALES MANAGER Shannon Smith Senior Account Executive Jonée Daigle Ferrand

Exclusively Online: Award-Winning Daily Blogs Mondays:

The Editor’s Room: Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde, three-time winner of the Alex Waller Award for print journalism, offers his take on the Big Easy, the state of Louisiana and the changing times. Named “Best Local Blog” by the Press Club of New Orleans.

Account Executives Erica Northcott Adams,

Shelley Duran, Maegan O’Brien Sales Assistant Erin Maher Azar Web/Production Manager Staci Woodward McCarty Production Designers Jenny Dascenzo Hronek and

Sarah George Web Editor Haley Adams Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne

Tuesdays:

President Alan Campell

Morgan Packard, managing editor for New Orleans Magazine, and Annie Drummond, whom MyNewOrleans.com stole from Ohio, tagteam weekly columns on the different ways to enjoy life our city.

Executive VICE PRESIDENT/Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Executive Assistant Kristi Ferrante Distribution Manager Christian Coombs

WYES DIAL 12 STAFF (504) 486-5511

Wednesdays:

After Hours: Nightlife savant and New Orleans Press Club award-winner Ian McNulty gives us the scoop on what to do when the sun goes down. You know, when he can get out of bed to write about it. Also... Nola Newbie: MyNewOrleans.com’s new web editor, Haley Adams, chronicles her adventures as a New Orleans resident. Thursdays:

Haute Plates: Our very own gastronome, Robert Peyton, offers the real dish on local dining. Also … Happy Hour: The yang to Mr. Peyton’s yin, Tim McNally, acclaimed wine judge and food writer, expounds on wine, cocktails and other draughts.

Executive Editor Beth Arroyo Utterback Managing Editor Aislinn Hinyup Associate Editor Robin Cooper Art Director Jenny Dascenzo Hronek

NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE Printed in USA A Publication of Renaissance Publishing 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 Subscription Hotline:

(504) 828-1380 ext. 251 or fax: (504) 828-1385

Fridays:

Joie d’Eve: Editor Eve Kidd Crawford, who has won awards from the Press Club of New Orleans and the Society of Professional Journalists, writes about what it means to be a family in New Orleans.

Visit MyNewOrleans.com to see photographs and articles, even before they hit the newsstands. Enjoy our archived articles, leave us a comment or sign up for our newsletter.

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Online at www.MyNewOrleans.com

New Orleans Magazine (ISSN 0897 8174) is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC., 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 8281380. Subscription rates: one year $19.95; Mexico, South America and Canada $48; Europe, Asia and Australia $75. An associate subscription to New Orleans Magazine is available by a contribution of $40 or more to WYES-TV/Channel 12, $10.00 of which is used to offset the cost of publication. Also available electronically, on CD-ROM and on-line. Periodicals postage paid at Metairie, LA, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to New Orleans Magazine, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright 2012 New Orleans Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The trademark New Orleans and New Orleans Magazine are registered. New Orleans Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in New Orleans Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

FEATURES

BEST HOTEL BARS PAGE

70 Best Bars Our annual guide – this year, the hotels by Tim McNally

76 Tops of the TOwn Our readers’ picks in a range of categories

84 THE POLITICS OF EDUCATION How the election shook up the school board by Dawn Ruth

87 New Orleans Magazine’s Guide to Schools compiled by Kristi Ferrante

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 INSIDE “When Terror Reigned” 8 speaking out Editorial, plus a Mike Luckovich cartoon

10 JULIA STREET Questions and answers about New Orleans

127 Try This “Pilates and a Little History – New Orleans-style”

128 STREETCAR “A Pixie at Krewe du Vieux”

THE BEAT 16 18 21 22

MARQUEE Entertainment calendar PERSONA Hornets’ point guard Austin Rivers newsbeat “Coaching for Change” Biz “Where New Ideas Flourish: Building enterprises from the ground up”

24 HEALTHBEAT The latest news in health from New Orleans and beyond

25 newsbeat “Irish Museum Opens in French Quarter” 26 Crime fighting “‘Front End’ to ‘Back End’: A view from both ends of public safety”

28 newsbeat “Adding Up the Praise”

LOCAL COLOR

THE POLITICS OF EDUCATION PAGE

30 THE SCOOP “Carnival Beneath the Oaks: A guide

to the early parades”

34 music “Music From the Soul” 35 Read & Spin A look at the latest CDs and books 38 CAST OF CHARACTERS “Ink Obsession: A relationship that’s more than skin deep”

40 MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS “Digital Grandma” 42 Joie d’Eve “Voice Lessons” 44 CHRONICLES “Snow Daze:” New Orleans’ few moments of winter wonderland

46 HOME “Making a Splash: Stephanie and Terrance TOPS OF THE TOWN PAGE

CONTENTS 1.13 VOL.47 NO.4

ON THE COVER Best Hotel Bars E ugenia U hl P hotograph

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Osborne’s home is a reflection of his art.”

THE MENU

52 table talk “Here’s the Beef: New butchers putting 54 56 60 62

down stakes”

restaurant insider “Taking a Bigger Bite” FOOD “Eating Light: Resolution recipes” LAST CALL “Ringing in the New Year With an Old Friend” DINING GUIDE

DIAL 12

D1 The Phenomenon Lives On! Beginning Sun., Jan. 6 at 9 p.m. on WYES – don’t miss the highly anticipated return of Masterpiece Classic “Downton Abbey” The acclaimed cast returns with Academy Award®-winner Shirley MacLaine as the mother of Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham. On Thurs., Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. Steppin’ Out “It’s Carnival Time” looks at highlights of what parade goers can expect for the 2013 Mardi Gras season.

IN SID E

When Terror Reigned

e loved roses – if only he could have

loved them longer. This column, being the first of the year, should be joyous, and indeed there’s much to be joyous about – a new year and the Super Bowl coming, to down right in the middle of the parade season. Our cover story, which focuses on hotel bars, reflects the city’s good-times atmosphere. Yet, 40 years ago the city faced one of its worst all-time disasters. On Jan. 7, 1973, a sniper began firing from the top of what was then the Howard Johnson’s Hotel on Loyola Avenue. Before the day was over, he killed a total of nine people, including two hotel guests and five police officers. It would be learned that he had also been responsible for two other murders that had begun outside the police department’s Central Lockup on New Year’s Eve. At first it seemed like there were several snipers. In the end it was one person, Mark Essex, who was ultimately felled by police sharpshooters in a Marine helicopter. Subsequent investigations would reveal that Essex, a native of Kansas who had become disillusioned while in the Navy and who had aligned himself with the Black Panthers, was out to kill white policemen. His first victim, however, the one shot at Central Lockup, Alfred Harrell, was a young unarmed black man in training as a police cadet. Louis Sirgo, at the time the No. 2 person in the police department, was the best-known victim. He was shot leading a group up the hotel’s stairway. In his career, Sirgo had spoken about the social inequities that lead people to lives of crime. Now he was a victim of it. Every death was its own personal tragedy but the one that has especially moved me was that of Paul Persigo, a motorcycle policeman who hurried to the scene. Presigo was a senior officer and much respected. It was said he was the sort of cop that others on the force would turn to for leadership. There were no SWAT teams in those days, so the police had to figure how to deal with a problem that they weren’t trained to handle. From the shooter’s rooftop vantage point, clusters of cops down on the street made easy targets. To Essex, Persigo’s white police helmet was like a bull’s-eye. He took aim. Besides being a cop, Persigo was an expert on roses and was even qualified to judge at national competitions. If only Essex could have seen into the souls of the men he shot (Sirgo, outspoken on the sociology of crime; Presigo, fascinated with a thing of beauty), he might have seen past skin color. Persigo is buried at Garden of Memories cemetery in Metairie. His grave marker has the star and crescent of the New Orleans department. There is one more element: Above his name and on each of the bottom corners there are images of roses.

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S P E A K IN G O U T

Learning From the Spirit of the Letten Years

rime fighting and public integrity took a big

step backward in 2012 with the resignation of U.S. Attorney Jim Letten. He was the person in public life that people trusted most. His reputation as a crime fighter was unparalleled by anyone who has held that office locally. Letten’s resignation was triggered by the revelation that two of his former assistants, Sal Perricone and Jan Mann, had anonymously written outspoken online comments to articles on NOLA.com. They were outed through the efforts of investigators hired by businessman Fred Heebe who reportedly is being investigated in the River Burch landfill controversy. What Perricone and Mann did was wrong, certainly a conflict of interest for the position they held, though technically not illegal. There was a touch of Camelot to the saga of the idealist king feeling let down by his knights. Both assistants (who deserve credit for having been good, effective crime fighters) have been rebuked, but we keep thinking that none of this would have happened were it not for other forces in the forest. Heebe certainly had the right to fight back against unflattering web comments, and he was fortunate to have the resources to do so, but look at the damage already done because of River Birch – such as the case of Henry Mouton, a former state Wildlife and Fisheries commissioner. In June, Mouton pleaded guilty in federal court to a conspiracy for accepting $463,970 in payoffs, from what was subsequently identified as River Burch, to lobby against a competing dump site. Investigations also reached into the administration of former Parish President Aaron Broussard. Heebe has not yet been indicted but it’s clear that whatever has happened at River Birch has hurt many people, including the public, which has lost the person who provided the most hope that the area’s reputation for corruption could be countered. Now comes the business of selecting a replacement. The choice will ultimately be that of President Obama, but, as protocol has it, presidents seek

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advice from the congressional members of their party. Senator Mary Landrieu will have an important role. Early speculation has provided several names, few of them very promising, mostly more of the same old political faces. Letten was successful because he rose through the ranks. Rather than being a figurehead U.S. Attorney, he was someone who had already proven his way in court. Camelot ended with Arthur finding hope from the enthusiasm of a young boy who wanted to be a part of the spirit of the round table. We hope the Letten years have encouraged other people to be as idealistic in pursuing justice and in sending a message to those who would do wrong that, even if they win battles, the war continues.

AN ORIGINAL ©MIKE LUCKOVICH CARTOON FOR NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE

JULIA STREET

W IT H P O Y D R AS THE PARROT

T H E P U R S U IT T O A N S W E R E T E R N A L Q U E STI O N S The Pontchartrain Railroad was one of the nation’s earliest passenger rail lines, dating back to the early 1830s.

Win a Court of Two Sisters Jazz Brunch or Lunch at the Rib Room

Dear Julia, A question of historical importance has arisen, on which you may be able to shed some light. What is the correct spelling for the Smoky Mary? A Google search yields two spellings in discussion of the original train, while the Orpheus parade float exhibits the “Smokey” spelling. No doubt you and Poydras have an eternal answer to this eternal question. D. Witcher H ous t on, Tx 10

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The Pontchartrain Railroad was one of the nation’s earliest passenger rail lines, dating back to the early 1830s. “Smokey” is a recognized variant of the preferred spelling of the adjective “smoky.” In those days cars were pulled by horses or mules, so there initially was no smoke. When steam engines replaced horsepower, multiple Smokey Mary coal-stoked steam engines operated along the railroad’s route to the Old Spanish Fort resort. The

Pontchartrain Railroad’s last run was on March 15, 1932 but not all sections of track along Elysian Fields Avenue were removed at that time. Dear Julia, Please clarify some facts for me. I know that in the early 1950s there were two abattoirs (“slaughter houses,” to Poydras) in Arabi: I not only saw them, I also smelled them. I don’t recall any in the city of New Orleans but think there was one or more in the Carrollton

Here is a chance to eat, drink and listen to music, and have your curiosity satiated all at once. Send Julia a question. If we use it, you’ll be eligible for a monthly drawing for one of two Jazz Brunch gift certificates for two at The Court of Two Sisters in the Vieux Carré. To take part, send your question to: Julia Street, c/o New Orleans Magazine, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 or email: Errol@ MyNewOrleans.com. This month’s winners are: Ron Hill, New Orleans; and Patrick Mulhearn, Santa Cruz, CA.

section before being annexed by the city. After Carrollton was annexed, they had to close or move out of town. Is there a law prohibiting an abattoir from operating in the city? The only fact I’m sure of is the abattoirs in Arabi, the rest is stuff I think I’ve read or heard. Please clear this up for me. George E. McLean M e ta irie

“Abattoir” is such a lovely-sounding word but its associated smell is just offal [pun intended]. While laws restricting slaughterhouse locations were once on the books, those geographic restrictions appear to have been rescinded prior to 1893, when Council Series ordinance No. 7494 granted Simon Oestarly permission to “maintain and operate a slaughterhouse on the square bounded by Green, Seventh, Burdette and Washington streets, the Seventh District of

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New Orleans; provided that no killing be allowed except for the consumption of the district ...” The city’s current municipal code, Section 30-1411 through 1416, covers the cleaning, inspection and operation of slaughterhouses, as well as disposition of rejected animals and condemned meat, but appears to include no regulations regarding or geographically restricting slaughterhouse location. Dear Julia, I was raised around City Park and spent countless hours enjoying this enchanting place, especially the “Rose Garden,” which was free when I was growing up. In 2005 I visited the gardens on a beautiful June day. Everything in bloom was particularly beautiful with the roses being more exquisite than any year I could remember. I thought to myself that, “There must be a reason why these

gardens were so outstandingly gorgeous this year.” I felt compelled to take pictures of everything, and I did. Two months later, Hurricane Katrina hit and destroyed the beautiful Rose Garden. As Katrina also handicapped me, I’ve not been able to go back for a visit on my own, let alone attend any of the garden shows, which I loved. I really miss them. There were many decades-old “Old World” roses that were destroyed. I was wondering if you could tell me if, by now, the Botanical Gardens were able to replace them. All I have left of them are my beautiful pictures. Julia Hertz Metairie

In the seven years since flooding from the post-Hurricane Katrina levee failures submerged and destroyed the New Orleans Botanical Garden’s collection of more than 1,000 roses, the garden

has made a remarkable comeback. With the help of volunteers, many destroyed plants have been replaced and replanted. Thanks in large part to the Azby Fund’s generous $1.2 million contribution, it was possible to not only purchase new plants but to re-hire park personnel. Other contributions of money, materials and labor also contributed to the garden’s recovery. People showed up from all over to help in whatever way they were able. Included among the many who went above and beyond the call of duty were retired New York policemen who protected the New Orleans Museum of Art and then spent their spare time trying to locate and save botanical specimens; they’re credited with saving a rare cactus collection. Thanks to a gift from The Garden Club of Virginia, the Pelican Greenhouse will be restored. Even local citizens whose

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own gardens had been spared showed up at the park, bringing with them plants and cuttings to help replace at least a little of what had been lost. The popular Celebration in the Oaks opened in December 2005, attracted more than 50,000 visitors. Soon, another sign of recovery would be noted when, in February ’06, New York Times correspondent Anne Raver reported that one of the garden’s new roses, a small pink climber named Clotilde Soupert, then less than one foot tall, had bloomed. Hello, I don’t remember where I came across this advertisement of “Yeah You Right” pilsner beer; can you tell me whether this was a real beer? Who

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produced it and what happened to it? More importantly, was it any good? Patrick Mulhearn Sa nta Cruz, CA

I have never heard of Yeah You Right pilsner beer. In my opinion, your beer ad looks like it may be a digitally altered vintage magazine advertisement. The lettering and background appear altered, and the product labels also don’t look quite right. I think it’s likely the slogan at the top may have originally read “Treat Yourself Right” but was later modified to read “Treat youself (sic) right ... yeah you right” in an attempt to evoke somebody’s idea of a New Orleans dialect. Dear Julia You have been answering obscure

and interesting questions from readers for years now. What is your favorite or most interesting question? Also, does Poydras have a favorite cocktail? I believe I saw Poydras at the French 75 the other day after he had one too many, being escorted out the door by Chris Hannah. Ron Hill New Orleans

Yes that was Poydras you saw at French 75. He says he doesn’t recall being escorted out, but he’s not sure. As for my all-time favorite question, that’s easy. Without question, the strangest and most memorable question I ever recall answering was one in which somebody wanted to know why cockroaches often die upside down. Since we didn’t yet have an insectarium, I called the zoo and relayed the question. Once the laughter subsided, I was told that one

possible explanation is that popular modern insecticides contain neurotoxins and that roaches – or any other critter with an exoskeleton – cannot convulse like vertebrates. A poisoned bug may twitch and fall over but, since it has a stiff exterior shell rather than a flexible spine, it cannot bend and right itself so it gets stuck and lies upside down until poisoning or dehydration eventually kills it.

Julia on TV

Look for the Julia Street question on “Steppin’ Out,” every Friday at 6:30 p.m. on WYES/Channel 12. The show features reviews, news and features about the New Orleans entertainment scene. Viewers who can answer Julia’s weekly question can call in for prizes. Tell ’em you read about the show in New Orleans Magazine.

THEBEAT MARQUEE

PERSONA

BIZ

EDUCATION

HEALTH

CRIME FIGHTING

NEWS

PERSONA:

Austin Rivers PAGE 18

LAYNE MURDOCH NBA/PHOTOS

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T HE BE A T OUR

MARQUEE

T O P P I C K S O F T H E M O N T H’S E V E N T S BY

SARAH

RAVITS

Shakespeare for a New Generation

DANCING INTO TOWN The New York City-based dance company, Jessica Lang Dance, will make its New Orleans debut, performing at the Freda Lupin Memorial Hall at NOCCA on Jan. 18 and 19. As the director, Lang,

a Juilliard School alumna who has created more than 75 works with a variety of prestigious companies, has her dancers shine in classical and contemporary styles, fusing fashion with ingenious choreography. Information, NobaDance.org.

The New Orleans Shakespeare Festival at Tulane is one of 42 professional theater companies that participate in “Shakespeare for a New Generation,” a program that showcases the Bard’s productions to middle- and high-school students in communities across the country. The festival stages fulllength, professional productions of one of Shakespeare’s most frequently studied plays, bringing the worldreknowned tragedies and comedies to life with a refreshing energy. On Jan. 9-11 and 15-18, Hamlet, the story of the ill-fated Danish prince, will take place at Dixon Hall at the university. Information, NewOrleansShakespeare. tulane.edu

A Legendary Bluesman At age 87, B.B. King has been one of the reigning bluesmen for decades. The living legend will perform at Tipitina’s Uptown on Jan. 20. King, a Mississippi native who has been emulated for his signature bee-sting vibrato technique and praised for being down-to-earth despite his long-lasting fame, has won numerous awards for his musicianship and was named by TIME magazine as one of the top 10 best electric guitarists of all time. Information, Tipitinas.com.

Through Jan. 6.

“The Music of Queen;” Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Information, MahaliaJacksonTheater.com

Jan. 4. Guster plus Yellowbirds in concert; House of Blues. Information, HouseOfBlues.com

PhotoNOLA: Currents of 2012, through Jan. 6

PhunnyPhortyPhellows.com

Jan. 5. LPO presents

PhotoNOLA: Currents 2012; Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Information, OgdenMuseum.org

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Jersey Boys; Mahalia

Jan. 6. Phunny Phorty Phellows parade; Uptown streetcar route. Information,

Jersey Boys, Jan. 8-13, 15-20, 22-27

Jan. 8-13, 15-20, 22-27.

Justin Bieber, Jan. 15

SPOTLIGHT

Nancy Staggs

SINGING SENSATION A native of Nashville, Nancy Staggs has been singing and performing her entire life. Since moving to New Orleans four years ago, she has balanced a career at a retail shop while maintaining her passion for music. She has been featured on live studio albums for country singers including Alan Jackson, and recently began to perform solo at locations around New Orleans. Upcoming shows for the honey-voiced crooner take place at Mojito’s on Jan. 4, 23 and Feb. 1. How long have you been performing? Honestly,

G R E G M I L E S P H O T O G R A P H , top

I can’t remember not performing. My first solo was in a Christmas play at school when I was in kindergarten. When I was 6, I made my first recording with my Fisher Price tape recorder of my favorite Christmas songs. What did your training entail? I started

taking voice lessons when I was 14 at the local community college and continued with various teachers in various genres of

Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. Information, MahaliaJacksonTheater.com Jan. 9-13, 16-20, 22-24.

Southern Rep Theater presents Venus in Fur; venues TBA. Information, SouthernRep.com

music throughout high school. I participated in various school and civic choirs throughout childhood and high school. My high school choir was one of the top choirs in Tennessee. I received a full music scholarship to Ole Miss (University of Mississippi) where I studied Vocal Performance. There I participated in vocal groups, bands and choirs. I also studied Vocal Performance at Belmont University from 2002-’05.

jazz with a touch of soul. My biggest influences are Etta James and Ella Fitzgerald. As a child, I couldn’t get enough of them. As far as more recently recorded music, Susan Tedeschi for her amazingly powerful voice, Diana Krall for her rich lower range and jazz styling and arrangements, Amy

Winehouse for her soul and Jamie Cullum for his brilliant arrangements of songs from completely different genres. Growing up I also loved (and sang along to) Mariah Carey, Martina McBride (remember, I’m from Nashville) and Whitney Houston. I also love a cappella choir and church music and I

think singing in church had a huge impact on my singing.

Orleans has changed my outlook on music and musicians. I grew up in Nashville, the place singers go to “get discovered.” Musicians there aren’t particularly welcom-

ing to other musicians. Everything in music is truly a competition there. I have no desire to become a hugely famous singer – I just love making music. It’s my sanity ... my escape. I have found that in New Orleans, most musicians feel the same way. The first month I was here, Charmaine Neville pulled me up on stage at Snug Harbor after hearing me at an audition the day before. At the time, I really didn’t understand how big of a deal that was. That was my first time to see her and my first time to go to Snug Harbor. Here, musicians help each other out because we know how hard it is to be a musician sometimes! It’s also the nature of this city to lend a helping hand to others. The bottom line is that in New Orleans people make music because they love it and they love what it means to this city.

Jan. 10. General

Jan. 17. The Good Apple

Jan. 19. SimplePlay pres-

Jan. 29. Children’s Hospital

Pakenham’s Final Supper; Hotel Mazarin. Information, NewOrleansHotelCollection. com

Gala; National World War II Museum’s Stage Door Canteen. Information, 5617312.

ents Coyotes and Roadkill Ghost Choir plus Vox and the Hound. Information, OneEyedJacks.net

Guild Mardi Gras Mambo Bingo; Pontchartrain Center (Kenner). Information, 896-9373, chnola.org

Describe your style. Blues and

How has performing in New Orleans affected your style? New

Jan. 15. Justin Bieber

Jan. 23. Los Lobos

in concert; New Orleans Arena. Information, JustinBieberMusic.com

– Acoustic En Vivo; Tipitina’s Uptown. Information, Tipitinas.com Los Lobos, Jan. 23

myneworleans.com

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T HE BEA T

PERSONA

Austin Rivers BY SUE STRACHAN

y first game

to see New Orleans Hornets rookie point guard Austin Rivers play was ironically against the Utah Jazz, the team that was once known as the New Orleans Jazz. The Jazz logo, as my friend pointed out, looks just like the same one it had when it was located in New Orleans. While the Hornets name was retained when the team was brought here from Charlotte, N.C., the Hornets may soon be going through a name change itself. Logos and team names aside, what I really came to the New Orleans Arena to do was to watch Austin Rivers, who has taken the rookie spotlight off the then-injured Anthony Davis, the top NBA 2012 draft pick. Rivers was also drafted in ’12, the number 10 pick, as a freshman at Duke University. From the later years of high school on, the sports press has

At a Glance Profession: Point Guard for the New Orleans Hornets Age: 20 Education: Winter Park High School (Florida); attended Duke University Family: Father, “Doc” Rivers (Coach of the Boston Celtics); mother, Kristen Rivers; brothers Jeremiah and Spencer; sister, Callie. Favorite book: The Hunger Games Favorite movie: The Shawshank Redemption Favorite TV show: “Dexter.” Favorite music: Hip-hop Favorite food: Seafood Favorite New Orleans restaurant: Emeril’s Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii 18

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watched both Davis and Rivers intently, with comparisons often made (though they play different positions). As teammates they will have to combine their strengths. But for now, with Davis having been injured, Rivers has, not so quietly, stolen the spotlight. That can be a mixed blessing in sports, because your good games are sometimes reported as afterthoughts, while your not-so-spectacular games and injuries are minutely evaluated by sports journalists and the man on the bar stool watching the game. According to reports, it’s been a bumpy ride for Rivers – most journalists say he’s having a hard time adjusting to the pace of the NBA – but the night I saw him play, I saw none of that. In fact, I was impressed on how fast he was – dare I say faster than Chris Paul – and probably had one of the most intent faces out on the court. It isn’t surprising, however,

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that Rivers excels at the game, because his father is none other than “Doc” Rivers, the coach of the Boston Celtics, himself once a point guard. Basketball fanboys can only imagine the one-on-one games those two may have had growing up. And, we may be able to see an interesting family competition soon: The team will be playing the Boston Celtics on Jan. 16 (in Boston) and March 20 (in New Orleans). But in the meantime, Hornets fans will have an interesting ride watching Rivers grow as a player. What was the first New Orleans experience that you had when you arrived here? Bourbon

Street. What’s your favorite thing about New Orleans? Everybody

is in a good mood. What do you bring to the team as a Hornets player? My play-

making ability. What has been the biggest

adjustment from playing in college to the NBA? The tempo. What is your most important asset as a shooting guard and point guard? Always stay confi-

dent and believe in your teammates and yourself. Who are the other shooting and point guards that you look up to? Dwayne Wade

father coaches? No. I mean

it’s obviously different cause my dad coaches the team, so it will be a better enjoyment I’d say, if you win. Cause, you know, then you get that edge over your father. But it’s really nothing – he’s not playing, he’s coaching, so I’m really not going against him.

(Miami Heat), Deron Williams (Brooklyn Nets), Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers) and Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls).

You have your father’s number, No. 25. Is it a tribute to him? It’s a family number.

Who is the toughest team that you have played against as a Hornet? The Milwaukee Bucks;

You and your siblings are a family of athletes. What are their sports? My sister played volley-

their defense is pretty good.

ball for University of Florida, then professionally in Mexico. She no longer plays. My older brother plays for the NBA D-league Maine Red Claws and my little brother plays for the same team I did, Winter Park High School in Florida.

Who has been the toughest player to play against? Ben

Gordon (Charlotte Bobcats). Any team in particular that you’re excited to play this season? Everybody really, though

all the prime-time games have a little more excitement. The Hornets are playing the Celtics in January. Is there anything that you’ve thought about playing against the team your

Everyone has worn it.

You were drafted during college like your father was. Do you plan to go back to get your degree, like he did? Yes, I’m

planning to go back.

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NE WS B E A T

Coaching for Change On a recent rainy afternoon, students at Samuel J. Green Charter School got their first taste of an unfamiliar sport, rugby, and a dose of one triedand-true youth development tool, coaching. Nick Conte, a youth coach with the New Orleans Rugby Foundation, showed the students how to run with a rugby ball and evade tacklers during an introductory session at their Uptown school. But for students who continue with this and other sports programs supported by a new initiative called Coach Across America, the lessons delivered by their coaches extend far beyond the sports field. On the same afternoon, international sports heroes and local youth development leaders gathered at Green Charter School to introduce Coach Across America, which is placing 26 coaches in 11 New Orleans after-school programs, from basketball and tennis to football and rugby, for children in neighborhoods around town. “Unless we give our kids a coach, we are not doing right by them. Every kid needs a coach in their lives,” says Paul Caccamo, founder of Coach Across America. “This is the most important

message: You can’t address health, you can’t address violence, you can’t address education – unless you give kids a chance to join a team and learn the values of teamwork and confidence and determination and making the right decisions every day.” Coach Across America recruits and trains recent college grads to become coaches. The program works to counter budget cuts nationwide that have reduced after-school sports programs, which are widely credited with helping keep youth on track and out of trouble. This year, New Orleans was chosen as one of five cities to expand the program, which is supported by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. MercedesBenz USA in turn helps fund Laureus, making the program possible. Among the sports stars gathered by Laureus to introduce the program were Olympic medalwinning track star Edwin Moses, championship windsurfer Robby Naish, former top-ranked tennis pro Monica Seles and running back Marcus Allen, a two-time Super Bowl MVP. “We see sports as an agent of social change,” Moses told students. “We’re not saying we’re going to make everyone a superstar. We’re saying that sports creates a legacy of motivation, of caring, of diligence and hard work. We think that’s the impact of sports.” – I an M c N u l ty

T HE BE A T

BIZ

Where New Ideas Flourish Building enterprises from the ground up B y K athy F inn

ew O rleans ’ profile as a magnet for business

startups has risen sharply during the past several years, and it seems that the more young people come up with good business ideas, the more established local firms are willing to help. Around the city, groups commonly known as business incubators or accelerators work to give young folks with great ideas a leg up toward fulfilling their vision. Idea Village (IdeaVillage.org) has become one of the best-known local support organizations for startups. Co-founder and CEO Tim Williamson reports that some 650 entrepreneurs have registered since the organization launched 12 years ago. Among the Idea Village “alumni” who not only survived but also built thriving enterprises are Cordina Frozen Cocktails, Kickboard, 504ward, Tierra Resources, Audiosocket and Crescent Unmanned Systems. Not all aspiring entrepreneurs reach their goals, of course; the odds against any startup surviving to maturity are heavy. But making the attempt and gaining experience in business planning can be invaluable in improving on the next try. Supported by a host of established businesspeople who are anxious to nurture “newbies,” Idea Village over the years has refined its efforts by targeting specific areas deemed ripe for business development, including digital media, education, life sciences and film industries. Collaborating with such groups as the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the Urban League, Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business and the Brees Dream Foundation, Idea Village is channeling valuable resources toward new business formation.

Fast-Pitch Winners

Meanwhile, Tulane University has become a launching pad for new enterprises on its own through such efforts as PitchNOLA, an annual competition in which students are invited to make what’s known as an “elevator pitch.” Each person is allowed just three minutes to present the merits of his or her business idea to a group of judges who will evaluate the proposal’s viability. Sponsored by Tulane Social Entrepreneurship Initiatives, the business school and a local social entrepreneurship group called Propeller, PitchNOLA funnels startup money toward the top aspiring entrepreneurs. 22

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Lisa Alfiere Stern, director of the Tulane LevyRosenblum Institute for Entrepreneurship, says the latest elevator pitch competition drew more than 100 applications from people presenting business ideas in two categories: proposals that aim to solve a social or environmental problem, and business plans that would put blighted properties or vacant lots to good use for the benefit of the community. Twenty-one semifinalists chosen to compete in the final round of PitchNOLA offered ideas ranging from a youth radio station to a way for public schools to find quality substitute teachers. Here are the winning picks. B Justice and Accountability Center of Louisiana, JACLouisiana.org

Founded by Ameca Reali and Adrienne Wheeler, the center won a $5,000 prize for its business plan to seek expungements for individuals previously incarcerated for nonviolent crimes, in order to help them get back to work instead of back to prison. Reali and Wheeler say the lack of access to appropriate services in the post-conviction phase of criminal justice makes it less likely that the individual will have a positive reentry into society. JAC helps by providing assistance with records requests and post-conviction relief applications, and the founders hope to improve transitions over time by collecting and analyzing post-conviction data. B Birthmark Doula Collective, BirthmarkDoulas.com Latona Giwa and Dana Karen aim to address the poor birth outcomes among low-income populations by improving birth experiences for women. A doula is a trained person who provides support before, during and after birth, or in the postpartum period. The founders say doula support can reduce the need of medical interventions, such as C-sections, shorten labor time and reduce medical costs. They won $4,000 to assist in their efforts. B The New Orleans Fruit Tree Project, NolaFruit.org Megan Nuismer says her motto is “Will climb

trees for food.” Her “urban harvesting program,” which won a $3,000 prize, collects fruit that would otherwise go to waste, and makes it accessible to those struggling with hunger. Using a tree owner registration and volunteers, the project harvests fruits from private residential and donates it to local organizations that feed the hungry. B

Get Fruity About Trees

Founder David Young’s goal is to transform two vacant lots in the Lower 9th Ward into a citrus, banana and fig orchard. His prize: $5,000. B

Goats of Progress

Caitlin Bergo, David Behmer and Jacquelyn Dadakis won accolades and $3,000 for their property-maintenance service that harnesses the natural appetite of goats to control undesirable vegetation. B

Develop Abundance

Cat Kochanski wants to put hydroponic, aquaponic and aeroponic technologies to work provide resources to communities in need, and they took home $2,000 to assist in their planning. Visit gopropeller.org/news/365/ for more information on PitchNOLA.

Growing Big Ideas

The Idea Village grows the New Orleans “ecosystem” by promoting an annual “entrepreneur season” from July through March that engages a network of partners, including government, universities, corporations, nonprofits and individuals to support and retain local startup ventures. Entrepreneur season culminates each March with New Orleans Entrepreneur Week, the nationally recognized festival that gathers venture capitalists, angel investors, business professionals, corporate volunteers and policy leaders along with visiting MBA students. The fifth annual New Orleans Entrepreneur Week is scheduled March 16 through 22, 2013. Last year’s entrepreneurship week featured:  • One week of innovation, entrepreneurship and business development including dozens of events B Free seminars and workshops   B Dozens of New Orleans entrepreneurs pitching for capital, access and resources  B Over $1 million in capital and resources to be allocated  B High profile keynote speakers B The Big Idea Pitch Extravaganza, presented by iBERIABANK Under the banner of “Capital Village,” Idea Village also hosts numerous capital access opportunities for equity, grants and

debt. Participating entrepreneurs are selected through a rigorous nomination process for the following programs: Venture Capital. Created in 2009 by Jim Coulter, TPG Capital founding partner, and The Idea Village, the Coulter IDEApitch is an invitation-only dinner and investment pitch during New Orleans Entrepreneur Week featuring high-growth entrepreneurs in the New Orleans region presenting their ventures to worldclass investors. Angel Capital. PowerPitch is a fast-paced investment pitch event that connects entrepreneurs seeking angel investment with a network of national and local investors. Grants. The Big Idea is an innovative approach to community engagement through crowdsourced funding for a select number of early-stage startups. Speed-to-Seed is a fast-paced pitch competition that engages the local business community as panelists to assess the pitches as well as provide constructive feedback. Debt. Capital Roundtables connect an identified entrepreneur with a diverse group of lending professionals and investors with the goal of educating that entrepreneur about how to approach and navigate funding sources.

HEALTHBEAT

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Patricia Molina, M.D, Ph.D., Professor and Chair of Physiology at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, was appointed to the National Advisory Council on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Molina’s term began in November of 2012 and will end in October of ’16. A major

responsibility on this council is to make recommendations regarding grant applications to support research and training activities. Her research at LSU focuses on the interaction of alcohol and drug abuse on the behavioral, metabolic and immune consequences of HIV/ AIDS; she also studies the effects of alcohol and drug abuse on the cardiovascular, metabolic and immune consequences of acute traumatic brain injury and hemorrhagic shock.

Ochsner Medical Center is currently participating in a randomized clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a new cell-based technology in patients with non-reconstructable limb ischemia, which is a severe condition of peripheral artery disease that decreases blood flow to the legs and feet to the point of severe pain or skin ulcer for-

mation. The breakthrough trial, which is called “bone marrow aspirate concentrate” uses a patient’s own cells, including stem cells from their bone marrow, to stimulate growth of new blood vessels in the lower extremities. Ochsner is one of 22 sites in the United States participating in this approach, and is the only location to offer this trial in the greater Gulf South region.

Melinda Sothern, Ph.D., CEP, Professor and Director of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences Program at LSUHSC School of Public Health, has been awarded grant funding for her research on the role of social, environmental and behavioral determinants of future obesity. Five years ago, Sothern worked with children age 7 to 9 who had early predictors of metabolic syndrome. She had documented evidence that supports relationships seen in ado-

lescents between insulin sensitivity and fatty liver, belly fat and total body fat. She will be re-measuring BMI and also analyze blood tests for metabolic and genetic parameters in 100 healthy obese and non-obese adolescents. Dr. Sothern’s group will examine the role of genetically determined pro- and anti-inflammatory compounds, and the change in obesity and biomarkers from pre-adolescence to adolescence. They will also examine the contribution of social determinants that can modify these compounds. – S arah R a v its

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Irish Museum Opens in French Quarter Walk around the French Quarter. You can read the history of the city in its architecture, hear it from tour guides and experience curatorial renditions at landmark properties. Now, a new cultural center in the French Quarter is telling a different chapter of the city’s history, one its founder says has been neglected for too long. Last fall, the Irish Cultural Museum of New Orleans quietly opened at 933 Conti St. in a newly built structure that, from the street, resembles a historic French Quarter home, but inside houses exhibitions and event space. It is a project of passion for Matthew Ahearn, the local construction contractor who created it. “I wanted to honor this Irish legacy and heritage in New Orleans,” he says. “I grew up with a sense of history and a sense of ancestral gratitude, but it seemed like you never heard about Irish heritage here unless it’s St. Patrick’s Day.” The museum joins a groundswell of interest in the history and modern culture of the Irish in New Orleans. Last year saw the formation of a new nonprofit called the Irish Network-New Orleans,

a chapter of a national group that combines business networking and cultural education. Last year, New Orleans also hosted for the first time the American Conference for Irish Studies for a week of academic and cultural programming. The new Irish Cultural Museum is small by almost any standard, though it’s full of different approaches to telling the story of the Irish in New Orleans. “It isn’t a traditional museum, but one designed with modern technology and an appreciation for how people learn in different ways,” says Ahearn. This includes: interactive kiosks; static displays and exhibitions; archival photos, maps and newspaper clippings; a portrait collection; and a library. In a small auditorium, the museum shows “Irish New Orleans,” a documentary produced by Terri Landry for local public TV station WYES, Ch. 12. The museum has also hosted céilís, traditional Celtic dances, in its courtyard and other gatherings. Ultimately, Ahearn hopes his new museum will help tell a fuller story of the entire city. “You learn about New Orleans as you piece it together from different perspectives,” he says. Find details at icmnola.com. – I an M c N u l ty myneworleans.com

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T HE BEA T

C R I M E F I G H T I NG

“Front End” to “Back End” A view from both ends of public safety

B y A LL E N J O H N S O N J R .

andcuffed

and

shackled ,

B ernell

“ B ussy ”

Williams, 22, views violent crime in New Orleans from what’s commonly known as the “back end” of the criminal justice system. Dressed in rumpled orange prison jumpsuits, Williams and four co-defendants from the alleged Hollygrove neighborhood gang stand before U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle. Each plead “not guilty” to charges including drive-by shootings and racketeering, during an alleged feud over drug turf with the Hell City gang in Carrollton, from 2006 to ’12. In New Orleans, a city with more than 1,000 murders during the last five years, efforts to stop violence break along a euphemistic divide. Locals often speak of committing the majority of public resources either to the “front end” of the criminal justice system (improving education, job opportunities and recreation) or the “back end” (improving police coverage, more effective prosecutions and ample and secure prison space). As 2012 drew to a close, it was clearly a bad year for the “back end.” B

U.S. Attorney Jim Letten – the city’s top crime fighter – resigned amid an Internet posting scandal involving trusted aides. Joint efforts by the U.S. Department of Justice and city officials to make New Orleans safer by reforming the New Orleans Police Department and Orleans Parish Prison bogged down, partly over money issues. Murders and shootings persisted, despite improved working relations between police and prosecutors. Mayor Mitch Landrieu scoured the country for successful violence-reduction strategies, but nothing seemed to work. New Orleans (population 344,000) appeared poised to equal the 200 killings the city recorded in 2011, the nation’s highest murder per capita rate at 57.6 per 100,000 citizens. Meanwhile, advocates on the “front end” of the local criminal justice system championed reducing crime in the New Year by strengthening families, schools, health care and job opportunities – a tall order. This is a city where 41 percent (30,000) of all children lived in poverty in 2010; compared to a national average of 22 percent, according to the Agenda for Children, the local advocacy group. 26

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Local activists and civic groups are forging ahead with various initiatives to steer local youth away from adverse encounters with police, the courts, the jails – and the Orleans Parish Coroner’s office. They include Agenda for Children, now under new leadership. Very Front End

Four years ago, on Jan. 15, 2009, George W. Bush left the White House. In one of his last acts as president, Bush praised New Orleans educator and child psychologist Anthony “Tony” Recasner as a national role model. “This is a nation where citizens show calm in times of danger, and compassion in the face of suffering,” the president said, adding: “We see America’s character in Dr. Tony Recasner, a principal who opened a new charter school from the ruins of Hurricane Katrina.” According to a White House briefing paper, Recasner opened Samuel J. Green Charter School on Jan. 9, 2006, for 350 kids (kindergarten through eighth grade) after New Orleans’ “highly successful” Charter Middle School (the first charter school in New Orleans) was destroyed by Katrina’s floodwaters. Recasner gave Bush a tour of Green in 2007, and the president delivered remarks on education at the school. Today, Recasner is CEO of Agenda for Children, the nonprofit advocacy center with the bright blue sign (at 8300 Earhart Blvd.). He replaced founder Judy Watts, who retired in January 2011. The center is a five-minute drive away from the site of New Orleans Charter Middle (at 3800 Monroe St.). The pioneering charter school Recasner founded in 1998 was located in the heart of the same tough Hollygrove neighborhood that was home to Bernell Williams and his alleged gang – as well as famed rapper Juvenile. J oseph D aniel F iedler illustration

Before Katrina hit in 2005, Recasner and New Orleans Charter Middle registered the highest scores among non-magnet schools in the New Orleans Public School District. B

Recasner views New Orleans’ crime from the “very front end” of the criminal justice system. “We focus on getting the kids upstream,” Recasner says. “We believe if you get the kids really early, you really make a measurable difference down the road. You get a kid whose interests, talents and skills lead them in different directions than drugs and violence. Crime becomes a non-issue for kids who have broad interests and who are in engaged. That is the kind of kid we want to produce. You want healthy parents who produce healthy children who lead different productive lives.” B

New Orleans Magazine asked Recasner to respond to vexing questions about local violence that a Tulane University criminologist raised in a House Judiciary Committee briefing on homicide prevention last summer.

Why does New Orleans have continuing high rates of violent crime and murder? “The only thing I can put my hand on is that we don’t

have a robust enough economy to really engage a large number of kids,” Recasner says. “I don’t think we have a city where there are meaningful levels of engagement for males looking to engage in meaningful, productive activity. There is a lot of time to be aimless and without focus.” There are too few jobs, internships, recreation – and alternatives to trouble. He applauds the mayor’s efforts to revitalize New Orleans Recreation Development Commission, but adds that, “the opportunity to engage in organized sports isn’t as widespread as it used to be.” Despite the economic downturn, he says, local youth are looking for jobs with meaning. “I don’t think it’s about working for money. I think it’s about doing work that has value – and work that values you.” What are the direct and indirect costs of high rates of violent crime and murder? “What I see, with the young children who I work with, is

that your potential is diminished when you lose your parent. We lose human potential when there’s a high murder rate because we never know what these kids could have been if we had been different towards them.” He continues, “We benefit from the gifts that individuals bring to the world through their talents, acts and skills. We never know how different our lives would have been had they lived. It’s a question that never gets answered. We don’t think about it much. We think about the circumstances, the drugs, the crimes and the environments.” Recasner says he once attended an NOPD Comstat meeting on neighborhood crime trends. “I found it fascinating the way they track trends and crimes,” Recasner says. It also encouraged him to keep kids out of the criminal justice system. “I think about doing everything possible to help keep a person from ending up in that situation. It’s a web. Once you get connected, it’s hard to disentangle.” The Back End

Back in federal court, Judge Lemelle hears chatter (again) from the Hollygrove defendants. The judge demands to know who’s talking. Williams raises a handcuffed hand. “Six months,” the judge says, sentencing him to six months for contempt of court. “Six months?” Williams says, incredulous. He is already facing life in prison. He turns to follows the other inmates heading back to jail – the very back end of the system. myneworleans.com

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N EWSBEAT

Adding Up the Praise “Don’t believe your own press” is a classic bit of advice to help stay grounded when experiencing a rush of praise. But lately, the frequency and high-profile nature of top-destination rankings that New Orleans has been gathering from the travel media has been hard to ignore. Most recently and prominently, New Orleans placed first in a reader survey from Travel+Leisure magazine for “America’s Best Cities.” Readers ranked their favorite cities in some 66 criteria. New Orleans finished in the top five in more than half of them, which ranked it ahead of much larger cities like New York, San Francisco and Chicago. “The Crescent City is the ultimate crowd-pleaser,” the magazine’s editors opined. “These high marks run the gamut from the quite civilized – fine dining, architecture and antiques – 28

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to the boisterously unpretentious, such as its toprated music scene and the colorful people-watching.” The honor followed a No. 8 ranking on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of “Top 10 Cities in the U.S.,” and it was quickly followed by a new accolade from CNN, which named New Orleans the top romantic city in the world, keeping company with – and ranking ahead of – Paris, Moscow and Buenos Aires. For the city’s boosters, gearing up for the onslaught of attention next month as New Orleans hosts Super Bowl XLVII, these and other national kudos are a validation of the progress made since Hurricane Katrina at least temporarily knocked the Crescent City off the tourism map. “I think it helps establish New Orleans as a truly iconic city,” says Mark Romig, CEO of the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corp. “What these designations do is give people a new way of looking at the city.” Romig says the diversity of praise the city is getting these days in part reflects the type of travelers now drawn here. Instead of the stereotype of Bourbon Street debauchery, more travelers are experiencing the city’s many neighborhoods and cultural richness. “People coming now are looking for that experience of authenticity,” he says. “They’re not coming here to lay by the pool; they want to feel like they’ve experienced a culture and that’s something we have like no one else. We don’t have to make that up.” – I an M c N u l ty

LOCALCOLOR THE SCOOP

MUSIC

READ+SPIN

CHARACTERS

JOIE D’EVE

MODINE GUNCH

CHRONICLES

HOME

Krewe of Sparta

THE SCOOP:

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L OCAL C O L O R

T H E S C O O P Krewe of Oshun

Carnival Beneath the Oaks A guide to the early parades By ERROL LABORDE

ar n i v al ’ s para d e s ea s o n i s s pl i t i n t w o th i s year w i th the

Super Bowl taking over the town for the weekend between. Because of that we have one major parade weekend in January and the rest of the season in February. Except for Endymion, which parades on Canal Street, we think the parades are best when seen along St. Charles Avenue. Here are our thoughts on those that move along that route.

Fri., Jan. 25

Sat., Jan. 26

Krewe of Oshun H H Uptown, 6 p.m.

Krewe of Pontchartrain H H H H Uptown, 2 p.m.

Knights of Sparta H H H H Uptown, 6 p.m.

This is the first of the parades to march along St. Charles each year taking that Friday night spot (the first night when the larger-scaled parades are allowed). There is nothing fancy about this group, but if you want to warm up for the season, this is the one – plus the crowds are usually fairly light.

This parade, the first of the day parades, has gotten remarkably better over the last few years. There is usually a good mix of bands and the riders all know to keep their masks on. For the last few years the krewe has gone into a new direction with its theme by presenting word games. The clues are on the floats.

Krewe of Choctaw H H Uptown, Follows Pontchartrain

This krewe has been a West Bank fixture, but because of float rental complications having to do with parading a week earlier due to the Super Bowl it will parade Uptown this year. It is a parade that most east bankers don’t get to see, so stick around.

This is by far the best of the first weekend’s parades. If you can only see one, make it this one. It is an old-style parade with flambeaux, mule-drawn king’s floats and lots of pride.

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Sat., Jan. 26

Krewe of Pygmalion H H Uptown, 6:45 p.m.

This parade is the secPAT JOLLY PHOTOGRAPH

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Krewe du Vieux

Sun., Jan. 27

Krewe of Carrollton H H H H Uptown, Noon

Here is another must-see parade if you like the traditional Carnival. This venerable krewe has been around for a long time. For many it’s the beginning of the daytime parade season. Sunday afternoons on the neutral ground is a Carrollton tradition. Sun., Jan. 27

Krewe of King Arthur and Merlin HHH

Uptown, 1:15 p.m.

This is a pretty krewe paired with nice Arthurian-centered floats at the lead. It shares its floats with the Metairie Krewe of Excalibur, but St. Charles Avenue provides a more poetic backdrop.

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Off the beaten path but worth it

Not all that glitters is along St. Charles Avenue; here are two others worth seeing.

Fri., Jan. 19

Sun., Jan. 27

Krewe du Vieux Marigny/French Quarter, 6:30 p.m. No talk about “family fun” here, this is Carnival’s adult parade. Small-scale, sometimes naughty, floats are rich in satire. Maskers walk alongside fitting the scale of the old streets. If you like the Bohemian feel, this is the one. A group that’s similar in spirit, Krewe Delusion, follows. (See Streetcar, pg. 128)

Krewe of Alla West Bank, Noon Because of its long time connection with Blaine Kern float builder, this has always been a well puttogether parade. This is the best of the West Bank parades and one of the best suburban parades.

B R Y A N T A R N O WS K I P H O T O G R A P H , B O T T O M left

MITCHEL OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPH

ond part of a double-header that begins with Sparta. A little heavy on maids floats rather than the larger themed floats, but a decent closer for the night.

L OCAL C O L O R

MUSIC

Music From the Soul Ruminations on St. Cecilia

B Y J A S O N B E R R Y

n R ome , d ur i n g No v ember , I w a n d ere d the

narrow cobbled streets of Trastevere, a neighborhood much older than its fabled medieval stone buildings in earth tones, the moment, beyond the self. Above: St Cecilia, many now with rooftops of terracotta. On a warm gray Sunday I Gregorian Chant is named for the the patron saint of found myself passing through the courtyard to the Basilica of St. Cecilia. pope from 590-604, Saint Gregory the music, as depicted Cecilia is the patron saint of music. Composers as diverse as Handel Great, who oversaw the gathering and in a 17th century and Henry Purcell commemorated her with orchestral works. John codifying of liturgical music. Gregorian painting by Jacques Dryden’s “Ode to St. Cecilia” from 1637 is a famous poem, though more Chant is the “sung Bible … A vocal, Blanchard. Inset: about the exaltations of music than the mysterious sainted muse. monophonic music composed in Latin Stafano Maderno’s Cecilia was a woman of early Christian nobility who, according to using sacred texts from the Ancient 1599 sculpture of legend, felt celestial music in her heart when she married Valerian, a and New Testaments,” according to St. Cecilia. pagan. Valerian converted. The house became a center for evangelists. solesmes.com, the website of a French In the second century A.D., Cecilia, Valerian and her brother died as abbey. “The goal of the Gregorian melodies is to martyrs, she reportedly sang to God as Roman soldiers hacked away. favor spiritual growth, reveal the gifts of God and the The serene beauty of the church, built over ruins of the home, has a sublime full coherence of the Christian message. ” force of character. It has gone through many permutations as a sacred space. The organ is comparatively small and stands to A large church was built there in the 10th century. During a restoration in 1599, the left of the sitting area; it has ivory and ebony keyCecilia’s remains were exhumed and said to be in remarkable physical condiboards, a pneumatic transmission system and wind tion. A sculptor of that time cast a statue that today, encased in glass at the base chest piston. Above the pipes a pair of cherubim of the altar, lies curled in white, a life-like replica of Cecilia, semi-pristine, 14 with gilded wings hold the edges of a scroll, laced centuries after her death. Affixed above the statue, two golden angels hold a with laurels of gold. The overwhelming power of crown of martyrdom. Ten candelabras in leaves of bronze line the altar. detail, so much of it in opulent architectural details, A hundred upright chairs filled the center of the church, as befit a monastic radiates in Renaissance churches. This basilica, not community. Benedictine nuns wearing full black habits stood on the altar, holdso fraught with art, is less overpowering. As the nuns ing music sheets as the organist played. Their singing of Gregorian chants drew sang into the early afternoon, the basilica with its the clutch of visitors (not more than 20 of us) into one of those moments when ancient origins manifested a human scale, smalltime stops, the world waits and angelic voices imbue people with meditations of 34

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CD He isn’t a New Orleans native, but Ned Sublette has devoted plenty of time to the Big Easy with his knowledge and talents. He wrote two books about New Orleans – The World that Made New Orleans: From Spanish Silver to Congo Square and The Year Before The Flood: A Story of New Orleans, and is a former Tulane University Rockefeller Fellow. He is also a music man and released “Kiss You Down South” in October 2012. Recorded at Piety Street Studios, the album is a good choice for those who love the simple sounds of just a man and his guitar. HISTORY While the Jewish population isn’t the first group you think of when you think of New Orleans, the book The Jews of New Orleans and the Mississippi Delta: A History of Life & Community Along the Bayou shows Jews have a prominent place in the history of the area. Writers Emily Ford and Barry Stiefel wrote the book to bring attention to the culture of Southern Jews because Jewish communities are on the decline in the region. The book is a mini history lesson on Jewish communities starting with the Colonial Period. FOOD It makes sense that Cochon would be featured in a book of the world’s best restaurants, but the eatery isn’t in this book for its menu. Cochon is featured in Come In, We’re Closed: An Invitation to Staff Meals at the World’s Best Restaurants by Christine Carroll and Jody Eddy not for what it feeds its guests but rather for what it feeds its staff. The book contains stories, recipes and great photos that will make you want to be hired as a waiter. ART William Rau’s Nineteenth-Century European Painting from Barbizon to Belle Epoque is a whopping 647 pages and is what Rau, a New Orleans resident and the owner of M.S. Rau Antiques, calls “a massive undertaking.” But Rau’s efforts were worth it. The book includes thorough history behind the different movements and motifs of the time, as well as mini biographies of notable painters. There is a painting on almost every page, so reading the book is like walking through an art museum.

Please send submissions for consideration, attention: Haley Adams, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. myneworleans.com

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er and more intimate than gigantic churches like St. Peter’s or St. Paul Outside the Walls – works of monumental art in every sense. As the singing settled over the church, the small crowd of visitors sat still, carried along by undulating refrains of alleluias. Looking down on the altar, the mosaic in the apse from the 9th century, features a semicircle of saints surrounding Christ with Cecilia and Valerian on the right. As nuns in black veils intoned the melodies, the gowned figure of Jesus stands slightly taller than the three saints on either side, all in distinctive gowns, flanked by palm trees. A row of lambs lines the base beneath them. The curvilinear space creates a sense of closeness, as if the saintly figures on either side of the Messiah were leaning toward us in a gesture of shared humanity. In another panel, angels from the 11th century with enlarged frilled wings seemed half-bird, half-human. Renaissance painters spread the legend of Cecilia as the inspiration of musicians. Then the poets came along, notably Dryden who rallied to her meaning, as the shards of her real life receded and a spiritual legend emerged, what she came to represent. W. H. Auden, writing in the shadows of World War II, captured the longing for an intercessor in “Hymn to St. Cecillia,” which ends thusly: “I shall never be Different. Love me. Blessed Cecilia, appear in visions To all musicians, appear to inspire: Translated daughter, come home to startle Company of mortals with immortal fire.” Later that day, back in my rented quarters, I logged onto WWOZ’s website and with the seven-hour time difference caught the Sunday morning gospel show. As the river of church song rolled out of the tiny audio system on my laptop, I sat in the

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advancing Roman afternoon struck by the mystery of musical inspiration. It carries in the persona of St. Cecilia, rarified by the cloistered nuns in Trastevere, extending Gregorian chants so little heard nowadays in American parishes, back again to the thumping melodies and sky-shouting choruses of Southern black folk. Traditional gospel from the 1950s – songs like “Old Time Religion” – were recorded before gospel got amped up and mass choirs supplanted the down-home small choir stylizations. Two traditions, centuries and oceans apart, each became fixated on sacred melody as a means to salvation. Into my day came the dearSt. Cecilia Church once stood ly departed Marva Wright, at 1015 France St., at the corner singing “Jesus on the Main of N. Rampart Street in Bywater. Line.” A blues diva later in With populaher life, Wright, who grew tion shifts and up singing gospel, echoed a decline in Auden’s “appear in visions parishioners, … appear to inspire.” But like the church myriad of African-American was closed in spirit carriers, her appeal was 2000. Most not to an intermediary like recently the Cecilia. Wright sang of the building has Savior’s direct power: served as an Adult Day Care “If you’re sick Center. Pictures, by John and and you can’t get well Kathleen DMojo, and a hisCall him up tory of the beautiful old church Call him up can be found on the website Call him up NewOrleransChurches.com. And tell him what you want.”

St. Cecilia – The Church

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L OCAL C O L O R

C A S T O F CH ARAC TERS

Ink Obsession A relationship that’s more than skin deep B Y G E O R G E G U R T N E R

attoo art i s t B ob E ll i s o n po i n t s to the pe n tagram

surrounded by three sixes etched into his neck: “That’s in honor of my dad,” he says. “When I was a kid, he always said I was an evil lil’ bastard. Well, Dad, if I’m evil, I may as well be the devil’s son.” Ellison cracks up at his own observation, and you just know it’s going to be an unusual night in the Ink Obsession tattoo studio on N. Galvez Street. Cars fly by almost directly overhead on an elevated portion of Interstate 10, and Ellison uses that vision to segue into an observation, one that points out that if Ink Obsession isn’t the center of an increasingly crowded universe of tattoo establishments around New Orleans, it’s at least at a geographical map point trisecting Faubourg Marigny, the 9th Ward and the 8th Ward. “We’re right on the edge of everything,” Ellison says, his voice tinged with pride. “We don’t get a lot of walk-ins, maybe five or so a week. But most of my clients are by-appointment, lot of repeat customers, people who like our work and come and refer us ... satisfied customers who really like what we do.” One of those satisfied customers is his partner for the past six years, Nicole Bell. He tattoos her. She tattoos him. Nicole’s daughter, Gabrielle, can’t wait until Aug. 29 when she turns 18 so she can experience the wonderful world of permanent dermal artwork for herself. Apparently, that old adage rings true here: The family that inks together stays together. Nicole is a native of Gretna, and Bob blew into New Orleans as a search and rescue volunteer fireman after Hurricane Katrina. Though their eyes locked into

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each other at a bar in Gretna, it wasn’t exactly love at first sight. “Nicole bought me a beer, but I don’t drink,” Ellison says. “I refused it. Well, she got mad as hell and slapped me upside the head. To say we didn’t get along at first would be putting it mildly. But we got to be friends and the rest, as they say, is history. We’re not married. I’ve been married five times. Those two words, ‘I do!’ and that little piece of paper can really ruin a relationship. They’ve been very unlucky for me.” Ellison jokes, “Nicole and I are in debt together, so I guess you could say we’re married.” But no doubt, it’s the love of ink that holds Bob and Nicole’s relationship together. He sort of nods in agreement and feels fortunate that his favorite two subjects actually are one and the same: “Nicole had two ugly tattoos when I met her,” he says. I put the rest on her …” Nicole lifts up her pants legs and shows the totem of skulls on her appendages. “Wanna see my camel toe?” Nicole asks, “Errrrr, ahhhh, wellll …” a visitor gulps. Nicole drops a shoe to the floor and points with pride to the dromedary camel inked on one of her toes. Not to be outdone, Ellison turns forearms up and points to this skull, that Madonna. The visitor is a little hesitant to ask about the three red claw marks up and below one of his eyes. “Yes, that’s a real tattoo,” Ellison says. “I got mad as hell at Nicole one day,” Ellison says. “We had a fight and she really got to me. So I put those three marks over and under my eye as a reminder to her. She still gets pissed off every time she looks at it.” Nicole’s daughter Gabrielle says, “I’m afraid of needles but … Maybe I will … then again, maybe I won’t. I just FRANK METHE PHOTOGRAPH

don’t know. I still have a little time to think about it. But I like the thought of the artwork on me …” “I know how she feels,” Ellison says, “My dad was a tattoo artist. I’ve been around it all my life. I mean, hell, I’d come home from school and hang out at the parlor. That’s all I saw. I grew up with tattoos. I got my first tattoo when I was 11 years old. Of course, I got my ass beat several times for that. But I’ve been getting tattoos ever since. I’ve been a firefighter, but man I love tattoos. I eat, sleep, dream tattoos. Sometimes, I’d rather get a tattoo than have sex. I really, really love it.” However, not everything covering the body of Bob Ellison is of Louvre quality. The 40-year-old Gilmer, Texas, native lifts his T-shirt to reveal a mass of broken lines that vaguely resemble a skull and a collection of playing cards. “This one (on his back) was done by a guy I was teaching to tattoo. He was an apprentice. A friend of mine. It was the very first tattoo he had ever done. We stopped to take a cigarette break. He was going to run down to the corner store to buy a pack of cigarettes. Well, he was hit by a car and he died. I just never let anybody touch it or even think about finishing it. I spent a lot of time with him … we were close.” He continues, “I guess it’s a memorial to my friend, just as it is. In truth, I don’t even remember what it was going to be. I’m not going to do anything else with it. I’m going to leave it just as it is.” In an era when seemingly everybody is out to have a picture of their kid tattooed on their arm or somebody’s name on their neck – one guy had a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department badge tattooed on his arm in honor of his mother who retired as a JPSO front desk receptionist – Ellison has followed an important axiom of any of business: “Know thy market.” He is fanatical about knowing and maintaining municipal and health department laws and codes. “I will not tattoo anything that has anything to do with narcotics or any illegal drugs … Did you know if the police pull you over and you have a marijuana leaf tattooed on your arm, they immediately have probable cause to search your car? But you get all these little idiots who buy a cheap ass tattoo needle online and do $5 and $10 tats in their kitchen … man that’s bad stuff. I want to put them all out of business.” Ellison pulls out a tattoo needle he has built. He goes on about the cost of ink, the maverick unregulated kitchen table tattoo practitioners out there and then he brags a little about holding the world record for having the number of ‘stick man’ tattoos on his body. Gabrielle is still contemplating the agony and the ecstasy of perhaps that skull with the words “As you are, I was … As I am, you will be …” on her arm or maybe it’ll be a rose. Nicole smiles at that and avers to the next time Bob puts tattoo needle to her body: “I’m open to anything,” she says. “But I want to try to keep it girly. Bob and I are working on a theme I like: ‘Day of the Dead girl.’ Right down the middle of my back. With flowers all around her. As you can see on my legs I like skulls.” “Every tattoo parlor has skulls in what they do,” Ellison says. He holds out his arms to bring the visitors’ attention to drawings and stencils of hundreds and hundreds of literally every subject imaginable. “In truth? I never if ever use stencils. I generally do my own. And those can run from $50 to as much as $30,000 for a full back with color. I’ve done several of those …” “I’m really anxious to get it done,” Gabrielle says. “Something very girly,” Nicole says. The family that inks together, stays together. And outside, the cars fly by on elevated Interstate 10 high above the family goings-on inside the little tattoo emporium on N. Galvez Street. myneworleans.com

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M O D I N E’S N EW O RLEAN S

Digital Grandma B Y M O D I N E G U N C H

y l i ttle gra n d d aughter L oll i pop

has written a song. We never had no songwriters in the Gunch family before. We never even had anybody who could carry a tune. We are the kind who moves our lips silently while everybody else belts out the words. And get this – this song is about me. My daughter Gumdrop says Lollipop won’t tell her the words, but she’s going to sing it right in front of everybody at Grandparents’ Day at her school. Grandparents’ Day is one of them required events if you’re a grandma. So every year I take time off – I’m a professional tour guide now – drive from my place in the French Quarter to Lollipop’s school on the Northshore, squish my backside into a kid-size chair, eat handmade Rice Krispie balls (say nothing about no crayon chunks that got rolled in by mistake) and smile a lot. Maybe it ain’t Thrillsville, but it comes with the territory. This year though, I’m pretty excited. And then, when I’m on my way, my car dies. No matter how much I step on the gas and say bad words, and how much the people behind me honk and HONK and HONNNNK, this car is dead as a doorknob. Finally, one of them tow trucks that are always circling around like vultures swoops in and takes me away and I pay the driver all the money I got in my purse. So here I am at a garage, drinking bad coffee and waiting for the mechanic to look at my car. And come to find out, my cell phone battery is also dead. I got to ask the young guy at the counter if I can use the garage phone to break the news to Lollipop. She is beyond upset. Grandparents’ Day party starts in 15 minutes. It isn’t just about missing the song, which is bad enough. It is that Lollipop will be the only one without a grandparent. Every kid in the school drags in either a legitimate grandparent or somebody with three or four chins who can pass for one. Last year Lollipop had two of us: me and the competing grandmother, Gumdrop’s mother-in-law, Mandy. But today, Mandy is getting her Botox injections, which are scheduled months in advance and can’t under no circumstances be changed. So I’m the grandmother she was counting on. But Gumdrop got a brain that works at warp speed, and she immediately comes up with an idea: We’ll set up a cell phone video chat. This means I can see her and she can see me over our smart cell phones. Gumdrop will bring her smart phone to Lollipop’s teacher, Miss Suzy, and Miss Suzy can carry it to Lollipop, and I can still go to Grandparents’ Day, virtually. Except my phone – which is smart enough to do this video chat, even if I’m not – is dead, which is why I’m standing at the garage counter making this phone call. I am explaining that to her, and the counter guy looks up – his nametag says Alonzo – and says “I got a smart phone here.” And he pulls it out. Turns out Alonzo and Gumdrop speak the same cyber language, so it only take a few seconds and clicks before I’m staring into Alonzo’s screen – he politely wiped it with a clean-ish rag– and looking at Gumdrop. And a few minutes later, at Miss Suzy. Now, Alonzo’s phone is bigger than most cell phones and the screen is about twice the size of mine, which means both of us can look into it together. But evidently Miss Suzy don’t quite grasp the concept of video chat. She sets the smart phone on top a stack of books she‘s carrying in her arms, and what me and Alonzo see for the next few minutes, via smart phone, is a extreme close-up of Miss Suzy’s left boob, in a flowered blouse, bobbing up the

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stairs. Thanks for that, modern technology. But pretty soon we’re looking at Lollipop, beaming like she’s seeing Santa Claus in person. I see a couple of her little friends peering into the phone, too, jealous because Lollipop has a virtual grandma and all they got are real ones. I introduce Lollipop to Alonzo and also to Vinny, the mechanic, who has wandered up and joined our little video party. Miss Suzy appears in the screen, frowns and asks Lollipop who her grandma’s friends are. Now, Lollipop is a very literal child. She don’t realize she’s asking about Alonzo and Vinny. She says “Her friends? The ladies in the altar society, I guess.” Miss Suzy frowns deeper, but then she goes back to directing the party. It is time for Lollipop’s song. Lollipop props the phone so we can all watch while she walks to the front of the room and bows, and then sings, to a tune that reminds me of the Oscar Wiener song. “My grandma don’t sew and she don’t knit If she makes a dress It won’t fit But: My grandma’s a professional She walks up and down the street And when new people come to town They all say she’s neat ...” It is very, very quiet in the classroom. Alonzo and Vinny are looking at me strange. “The French Quarter is Grandma’s home Where she likes to roam Use her phone ...” Why can’t she move her lips silently like the rest of the family? “But: She’s fun and kind of pretty She knows a lot of stuff She’s a tour guide for the city She’s my grandma – that’s enough!” Whew. The classroom breaks into applause; Vinny and Alonzo give me high fives and Lollipop blows us a kiss. And then it was over. No squatting on a tiny seat; no choking down suspicious Rice Krispies balls. Virtual Grandparents’ Day. Could be the next big thing. L O R I O SI E C K I I L L U S T R A T I O N

myneworleans.com

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J OIE D’ E V E

BLOGS FROM THE NEW NEW ORLEANS

Voice Lessons B Y E V E K idd C ra w f ord

w a s i n such a ba d moo d , a n d e v eryth i n g w a s go i n g

wrong. It was just a series of total first world problems, really, but I didn’t care about having perspective because I was in such a bad mood. The baby had teased me with a 15-minute nap but then woke up way too soon and way too angry. She wouldn’t let me put her down, so my lunch consisted of half a Granny Smith apple, a graham cracker with peanut butter, a packet of Cheez-Its and a pickle. I hit a pothole – hard – on the way to get Ruby. I hated every song on the radio, and my iPod was dead. The carpool lane was extra slow. And when I finally got to the front of the line and picked Ruby up, before she even finished buckling her seatbelt, she immediately launched into a bitter tirade about the legions of people who were not going to be invited to her birthday party. I tried to take a deep breath and put my bad mood aside. I didn’t want to take it out on Ruby, who seemed to be in a pretty crappy mood herself already. I tried to be sympathetic. But then I heard her say, “And I am definitely not inviting him because I don’t like his voice.” “Ruby!” I snapped at her. “You don’t judge someone by his or her voice! Don’t be ridiculous.” “Fine!” she said. “But I am also not inviting Nora!” “What? Why? She was like your best friend last year. What happened?” “Nothing … it’s just … I don’t like her voice either.” Well, then I really lost it. I got all fired up and started into a truly pointless lecture about how we judge people by things they can control, like how they treat us and others, and not by things they can’t control, like their looks or their voices. It was pointless, not because it wasn’t a valid life lesson but because Ruby couldn’t possibly have cared less about what I was saying. It was also pointless because I’m not even entirely convinced that Ruby herself knows what she means when she says she doesn’t like someone’s voice. It is just sort of her go-to complaint about people. The afternoon didn’t improve for me. I stubbed my toe. Ruby hit her head at the playground. The baby is teething and wanted to gnaw on my fingers and my face and my boobs. Pacifiers and teething toys, though offered, were roundly rejected in favor of maternal body parts. When she wasn’t gnawing, she was fussing. And regardless of whether she was gnawing or fussing, she was drooling so copiously that I kept changing her diapers, thinking they were leaking – but no, just drool. So much drool. All over everything. I was really in a terrible mood. And then in the car on the way home, it just got worse. The baby wailed from her seat. Traffic crawled. My contact lenses itched and burned. Ruby whined at me about how loud the baby was. Summoning the last of my

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patience, I said, “I know she’s loud, Ru, and it sounds awful, doesn’t it? Maybe she would calm down if you sang her a song?” And it worked. Miraculously, somehow, it worked. Ruby didn’t argue with me; she just started singing Georgia a made-up lullaby, and Georgia stopped crying and listened. “You are my sister,” Ruby sang. “And you’re better than a blister. And I love you, no matter what. And I don’t know what your voice sounds like yet, but I will love you even if I don’t like your voice …” That is the crazy thing about parenting: how quickly everything turns around. I have seen Ruby go from a perfect, wellbehaved, charming little angel to a screaming, furious, entitled, bratty little hellspawn in the time it takes me to say, “No, I don’t think we’re going to buy that Barbie today.” I myself have gone from a smiling, empathetic mother with what I thought was a fairly deep reserve of patience to a snarling monster yelling “Because I said so, dammit!” in a matter of seconds. But sometimes, it changes in the opposite direction – what had been a pretty lousy afternoon of parenting suddenly turned into one of the sweetest moments ever. Everything about parenting defies logic and reason – no one makes me feel things, bad or good, as strongly as my kids. No one brings out the best and worst in me as strongly as my kids. And having a second child intensifies the good and the bad by a factor much larger than two. As Ruby’s song wound down, she said to me, in one of those moments that would be scripted and saccharine in a sitcom but that in real life are one of the best and most rewarding things about motherhood: “Mom, I love Georgie. And I love you. I’m glad we’re a family.” “Ruby,” I told her, “we speak with one voice.” Excerpted from Eve Kidd Crawford’s blog, Joie d’Eve, which appears each Friday on MyNewOrleans.com. For comments: info@neworleansmagazine.com.

myneworleans.com

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L OCAL C O L O R

C H R O N I C L ES 1.5 inches of snow fell in the New Orleans area Feb. 12, 1958.

Snow Daze From 1853 to 2008, the National Weather Service recorded 17 New Orleans “snow events.” B Y C A R O L Y N K O L B

s the s tory goe s , s ome year s back the Ne w

Orleans Assessors (when there were more than one of them) required property owners to fill out a description form for their property and mail it in, along with a photograph. Included in the collection were a number of pictures of New Orleans houses in the snow – recording the one time people felt compelled to take a snapshot of the family home. Former Assessor Janyce Degan couldn’t confirm that legend, but she does remember a typical New Orleans snow experience: “I was going down Harrison Avenue with the kids in the car – and I was slipping and sliding, and it was very scary.” On a more positive snow note: “I remember taking them to City Park because it was so beautiful.” Snow doesn’t come to New Orleans every year. The National Weather Service has records dating back to 1849, and besides the 17 “snow events” of lasting cover, there were 38 days when traces of the fluffy precipitation appeared, but didn’t linger. Even if it doesn’t come down every year, New Orleanians always hope it will. For years the Maison Blanche department stores’ Christmas mascot Mister Bingle ran an essay contest for kids: “Just write down why you want it to snow in New Orleans and send it to Mister Bingle’s Snow Contest,” the

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Faux Snow

If you want your own snowy winter wonderland, get out your checkbook and call Pelican Ice and Cold Storage, Inc., (PelicanIce.com) at 602-0113. Pelican’s John Renaudin explains “We actually go out with a huge machine that breaks down 300 pound blocks of ice, and it blows it just about everywhere.” If you “friend” them on Facebook (Pelican Ice and Cold Storage) you’ll get a chance to enter one of their many contests. Pelican supplies the “snow” for events at both City Park and Loyola University. (Pelican is also the official ice of the New Orleans Saints.) P H O T O G R A P H C O U R T E S Y T H E H IS T O R I C N E W O R L E A NS C O L L E C T I O N , T op

ad in The Times-Picayune read. First prize was a trip to “Rocky Mountain Snow Country,” with a bike and T-shirts as consolation prizes. The best year for snow was 1895; Feb. 14, and the next day Feb. 15, had the largest snowfall the city has seen: 8.2 inches. Hazel Schlueter – also known as WWOZ’s Hazel the Delta Rambler – can attest that her great-grandfather, New Orleanian Gottleib Wolf, remembered it with awe. A Picayune reporter recorded that “the whole city was throwing snowballs or being hit by them.” He ventured up on the roof of the Grunewald (now Roosevelt) hotel to measure 7 inches of snow, and observe that “improvised sleigh and sleds on the streets” were being cheered by pedestrians. Rex (Walter Denegre) rolled on Feb. 12, 1899, with 3 inches of snow on his route. While snow may not fall on the parade, it may influence the look of the floats. Mardi Gras float designer Henri Schindler pointed out that “it’s only natural that designers would turn to the arctic or to snowflakes – they are so decorative!” Other holidays may see snow. Peter Derbes recalled snow on Lincoln’s birthday (Feb. 12) in 1958 when a 1.5 inches fell. On New Year’s Eve of 1963, 4.5 inches fell. As usual, the streetcars stopped running, but that didn’t stop partygoers. Angus Lind, in a ’88 Times-Picayune column, recounted his ’63 evening at the F & M Patio – somewhat dampened by his nagging guilt over not returning some extra change he got back from the clerk at Larry and Katz’s liquor store. The Sugar Bowl game helped the winning Alabama Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant add to his legend when the wet, cold field of the old Tulane Stadium forced the better rated Ole Miss team to fumble 11 times. Obviously, the Bear controlled the weather. For those years when the weather doesn’t cooperate, New Orleanians have other options. Rodney Thoulion, executive director of Friends of City Park, points out that City Park in many years has had a snow day in the Dreyfous Meadow, in front of the New Orleans Museum of Art. “It turns the meadow into a winter wonderland filled with tons of snow generated from a machine. It’s really a treat for families.” Original sponsor for the event was Radiofone, no longer in existence. Loyola’s University Programming Board puts on Sneaux @ Loyno every year, with snow pumped in for students to revel in before leaving for the holidays. And, there’s the annual “Miracle on Fulton Street” when Harrah’s casino activates a Snowmaster machine in the Fulton Street walkway that turns liquid soap into tiny snow-like bubbles. There is a 10-minute “snowfall” on the hour, between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., beginning in late November and continuing until Jan. 2. The biggest snowfall in recent memory was on Christmas Day of 2004 when 1.5 inches fell. As Peter Derbes remarked, “we should have known it augured something ill.” Hurricane Katrina arrived eight months later. But, that Christmas snowfall was especially lovely. As Angus Lind remembers: “We had just sat down to eat Christmas dinner – my wife, me and my son and daughter, who were adults. I think we had toasted, and my son said ‘it’s snowing like crazy outside.’ “With hot food on the table, we just ran outside. To think that you would stop cold and go frolic in the snow: four adults! “My wife grabbed a beret and a red scarf – to look Christmas-y. I got the camera, and we started shooting pictures of each other. We even stopped somebody and asked him to take a picture of us.” Some good things are meant to last forever: “That picture’s been in our front room ever since.” myneworleans.com

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HOME

Making a Splash Stephanie and Terrence Osborne’s home is a reflection of his art.

B Y B O N N I E W A R R E N p hotogra p hed b y c H E R Y L G E R B E R

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home

isn’t

har d

find

the

w alle d

neighborhood of Stonebridge on the West Bank – just look for the brightly painted art on the front door. The unique door is a pleasant welcome to the home of Terrance Osborne, a well-known artist, and Stephanie, his charming wife who manages his career. “The door is my introduction to the center of my art world,” he says. It is here that he creates his paintings and enjoys living comfortably. Having my studio here means I’m always close to my family and I enjoy having them around while I’m working.” (The Osborne family includes: Seth, 12 and Sydni (“Syd”), 9. Terrance also has an older son, also named Terrance but called “LT, for little

Terrance, who’s 18 and has his own apartment.) Step inside the front door, and you’ll find Terrance’s studio in a room you would normally expect to be the living or dining room. “It was actually a formal dining room before we purchased the house five years ago,” he says. “It didn’t seem strange for me to make it my studio and hub of my work, and it’s also like a gallery where our guests can enjoy my latest work when they visit us.” The core of the house is a large den that occupies most of the back of house. It is definitely a perfect showplace for Terrance’s work. Divided into four spaces – a seating area in front of the fireplace,

Facing page, top: Terrance and Stephanie Osborne purchased their 5,000 square-foot, Acadian-style home in Stonebridge on the West Bank five years ago. Facing page, bottom: The Osborne family includes Terrance, standing next to the front door he painted, and (seated left to right), Terrance “LT”, Seth, Stephanie and Sydni “Syd.” Family pets include, top to bottom, Toaster, a Great Dane, Jango, a Cocker Spaniel and Sarah, Shih Tzu-Poodle mix. Above: A relief of the New Orleans skyline hangs over the mantel, while a print and painting flank the fireplace. A painting of a New Orleans streetcar takes center stage over the leather couch. myneworleans.com

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a television nook, a bar and a dramatic corner for the couple’s opium bed – there isn’t a dull corner in the colorful room. The fireplace is the focal point for the main seating area and you’ll quickly notice that here Terrance’s art takes center stage. His relief of the skyline of New Orleans fills the wall above the mantel and it’s flanked by one of his prints and an oil painting, while his large painting of a streetcar hangs over the couch. Stephanie gets the credit for serving as the interior designer for the home. She added charm to the den by placing colorful pillows and two unique floor lamps on either side of the leather sofa. A matching leather daybed and the bright blue velvet chair complete the seating for the space. “We enjoy having a large open area in the back of the house that overlooks the pool,” she says. “The pool and patio are ideal for gatherings of our family and friends.” The second dramatic space is anchored by a handsome round couch from Scandinavia, Inc. in Metairie that’s placed strategically to take advantage of the television and provide a panoramic view of the backyard, swimming pool and Stonebridge Country Club beyond. “From Nothing” is the title of Terrance’s 4-by-8-foot painting that dominates a third corner of the large

space. “The tree begins with cool colors and then ends with reds and oranges at the top,” he says. “It seems like such an appropriate painting to be used in the space that features an opium bed we discovered in a shop on North Rampart Street. We fell in love with its beauty and uniqueness.” It is Stephanie who waved her magic design wand and added colorful cushions to dress out the bed. The fourth space is a bar that’s perfect for entertaining. Art definitely makes a statement in the Osbornes’ home, and it’s always exciting because it’s an ever changing scene as works are sold and moved to new homes and businesses around the country. For example, the 4-by-8-foot original painting of Trombone Shorty that Terrance created for the 2012 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival poster has now moved on to an art lover’s mansion in the Garden District. “Yes, I do get attached to my work,” he says. “But there’s no greater thrill than knowing something I’ve done has a new home with an art lover elsewhere.”

Facing page, top: Terrance’s large painting of a colorful tree has a place of honor next to the opium bed that graces a corner of the den; cushions and pillows add interest to the bed. Facing page, bottom: The dining room overlooks the scenic fairways and greens of the golf course just beyond the iron fence that surrounds the rear yard. This page, top: A round couch from Scandinavia, Inc. in Metairie is placed for ideal television enjoyment and a panoramic view of the swimming pool and golf course beyond. Above: Terrance’s studio is in what would normally be the dining room of the home. myneworleans.com

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THEMENU TABLE TALK

RESTAURANT INSIDER

FOOD

LAST CALL

DINING LISTINGS

Cleaver & Co. co-owner, Simone Reggie

TABLE TALK:

Here’s the Beef PAGE 52

J E F F E R Y J O H N S T on P H O T O G R A P H

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T HE M EN U

T A B L E T A L K

Here’s the Beef New butchers putting down stakes BY JAY FORMAN

Cleaver and Co. offers ribeye steaks, above, as well as hogshead cheese, kielbasa, smoked green onion sausage and pork chops, left.

eat l o v ers , rejo i c e . A gro w i ng n u m b er of

specialty shops around town now cater to carnivores with a focus on artisanship, selection and customer service. Uptown on Baronne Street is the new Cleaver & Co., a whole-animal butcher shop that takes a holistic approach to its sourcing. The brainchild of Seth Hamstead, the shop strives to essentially connect farmers with consumers in a uniquely transparent way that’s informative as well as practical. “The farmers’ strength is in raising things,” Hamstead says. “For the small guys to sell at farmers markets, it requires leaving their real jobs a few days of the week to sell pre-portioned stuff from coolers. That model just doesn’t complement their strengths.” Originally from West Virginia, Hamstead came to Tulane University as an undergraduate. Later, he came up with the concept for Cleaver & Co. while pursuing a Ph.D. in chemistry at the University of Chicago. Then he asked himself, Why do this in Chicago? New Orleans was where he wanted to be. He returned to the Crescent City to pursue an MBA in business, where he met Simone Reggie, a Lafayette native, who became his business partner in Cleaver and Co. The store buys the whole animal directly from the farmers, making sure to visit the farm beforehand to make sure they meet their standards for quality – pasture raised, no antibiotics and no hormones. Steps are taken to minimize stress to the animals before they are killed, which can affect the taste of the meat. Signs on the walk-in cooler display the cuts and prices available. Beef, pork and

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chicken are sold, as well as fresh duck and lamb. Louisiana-raised bison will make an appearance in the spring. Visitors will immediately notice that the selection goes far beyond the usual filet and rib-eye. More esoteric choices include flatiron, shank, tongue and chuck-eye, and a large selection of offal such as kidney, liver and heart are sold as well. Meat is cut to order to give the customer exactly what they want in terms of portion and thickness. The knowledgeable staff is fine-tuned to answer questions and offer suggestions. “Curiosity is a big part of the draw,” Hamstead says. “We get customers who come in and look at the list and say, ‘I recognize, like, three things on here, and I want to know more.’ And I’m like, sure, let’s talk about it as long as you want to; I’m here for you.” According to Hamstead, some of the most flavorful cuts come from the shoulder, which is where the chuck-eye comes from. “It is actually the same muscle as the rib-eye,” he says. “It looks a little different but it has the same flavor profile.” Recommended, too, is the flatiron cut, akin to a skirt steak but with a more concentrated, beefy flavor. For guests initially seeking filet, Hamstead might suggest the shoulder tender. “It is this tiny little half-pound muscle that comes from the shoulder. It is equally tender but it actually has flavor.” A bonus: A lot of these more obscure cuts cost less than the more well-known rib-eye and filet. Fans of boudin will be pleased to see fresh-made JEFFERY JOHNSTON PHOTOGRAPHS

Two New Tastes

versions available here. Reach-in cases display offerings like hogsCleaver & Co. head cheese, freshly made stocks 3917 Baronne St. and homemade sausages – Italian, 227-3830 bratwurst and breakfast-style, to CleaverAndCo.com name a few. L Mon, Wed-Sun; D Mon, For Mardi Gras, keep in mind Wed-Sun; closed Tues. their Uptown Baronne Street locaEmmett’s Meats tion is just a few blocks off the 5618 Jefferson Highway St. Charles Avenue Parade route, 733-0901 making them a convenient and EmmettsMeats.com interesting stop for Carnival grilling. B, L Mon-Sat “Regarding tailgating, I think there’s this big football match thing coming up in February …” Hamstead points out. Tucked into a strip mall on Jefferson Highway near the Huey P. is Emmett’s Meats, a little gem of a shop owned by Emmett Dufresne. A New Orleans native who grew up next door to Sam Cortese (the Roman Candy Man), Dufresne is a veteran meat purveyor who spent 23 years working at Langenstein’s before setting out on his own. “I worked the meat and seafood counters, along with the kitchen,” Dufresne says. “Along the way I learned what customers want. We cater to that and make it about customer service here.” The space evokes traditional butcher shops, with a checkered floor and retro-style cases for the prepared foods. Much of the meat comes from Halpern’s, a top-quality purveyor that’s also the source for a lot of big-name restaurants around New Orleans. The grass-fed beef is wet-aged, with a few select cuts available dry-aged as well. Along with the beef is a selection of homemade sausages including Italian and green onion, along with specialty ones like a barbecue bacon rib-eye sausage. A couple types of boudin – a traditional pork and a specialty crawfish etouffée version – are sold as well. In the reach-in cases is a wide selection of stuffed chickens, deboned and ready to cook. They are some of the most popular items and feature a range of stuffings including artichoke, crabmeat, Andouille-cornbread and (Dufresne’s favorite) shrimp and wild rice. Turduckens are sold year-round, and among the selection of prepared foods is his popular smoked almond chicken salad. Among the more novel offerings is a line of beef jerky, made from trimmed rump roast that’s sliced thin, cured overnight in a brown sugar and spice blend and then smoked. “Along with the thin sliced, we do a rib-eye jerky stick,” he says. Emmett’s Meats also offers wild game processing for hunters. “Hogs, venison, duck and quail – we do it all.” Emmett’s also does party trays that are convenient for Mardi Gras parties and parades, and – ladies take note – they also offer guy-themed Valentine’s gift baskets featuring steaks and loaded baked potatoes.

Other Cuts Other specialty shops for meat around town include Rare Cuts on Magazine Street, which offers an on-site dining room and private chef for catered events, as well as a line of prepared foods. Cochon Butcher in the Warehouse District sells perfectly portioned cuts of meat cryovaced, some pre-seasoned, ready to slap on the grill. They also sell a line of homemade rillettes, hogshead cheese and duck confit. myneworleans.com

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R E S T A U R A N T IN SID ER

Taking a Bigger Bite BY ROBERT PEYTON

Did you know that Morning Call opened a location in City Park? If so, congratulations; if not, now you do. It is in the first floor of the casino, and it’s hard to imagine how they could have done a better job with the renovation. The opening marks a return to Orleans Parish for Morning Call, which operated in the French Market from 1870 until re-locating to Fat City in 1974. All of the hallmarks of Morning Call are there: the mirrored walls, the bare bulb lighting and, of course, the Morning Call in City Park beignets and café au lait. The doughnuts are every bit as good as those at the the atmosphere in the City Park location makes it hard to argue. Metairie location, and the coffee is still poured from two sepaBoth locations of Morning Call are open 24 hours, 7 days a week, rate containers, one holding coffee with chicory and one hold364 days of the year – they are closed on Christmas day. Call 885ing scalded milk. Morning Call bills itself as New Orleans most 4068 to learn more. famous coffee drinking place, and while that may be hyperbole,

Pizza Delicious started as a pop-up restaurant operating out of a shared kitchen at 3334 N. Rampart St. Owners Mike Friedman and Greg Augarten served an ever-changing but limited selection of New York-style pizzas and a few sides, only for pick-up. In November of last year they set up a more permanent shop at 617 Piety St., just a few blocks from their original location. The new location allows for a more expansive menu, including a daily pasta, a couple of salads and a pretty decent dessert selection. All that, and they now serve beer and wine as well. The pizzas available still change depending on what’s available and what they feel like cooking, but cheese, pepperoni and margherita pizzas are always options. Pizza Delicious is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and you can call 676-8482 to place an order or find out what’s on the menu on any given day.

The Milk Bar

Milk Bar, the popular sandwich shop near Touro Hospital at 1514 Delachaise St., has opened a second location in the Riverbend, taking over the space at 710 S. Carrollton Ave., formerly occupied by the Saltwater Grill. The menu is the same: a soup that changes daily, a half-dozen or so salads 54

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Pizza Delicious pop-up

and a variety of sandwiches made on a round loaf, which the restaurant specialorders from La Boulangerie. Standouts include the Blue Heeler (roast beef and gravy with mushrooms, tomato, red onion and both blue and mozzarella cheeses); the Empirely

Delicious (marinated chicken with mozzarella, romaine, tomato and Caesar dressing); and the Cattle Fodder (cream cheese, roasted red pepper, mushrooms, avocado, tomato, carrot and alfalfa sprouts). Milk Bar also has a wide selection of milkshakes, fruit smoothies and freezes. The new location adds Saturday service, but otherwise has the same hours as the Delachaise Street shop – 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call 309-3310 to reach the new shop.

The George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts, in partnership with the Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation is holding its fourth annual art contest this year. The theme is Louisiana’s culinary heritage, and winning artwork will appear in a cookbook to be jointly published by the two partners. The contest is open to Louisiana juniors and seniors attending public or private schools and homeschooled and GED students. Entries must be between 11-by-14 and 18-by-24 inches, and acceptable mediums include oil or acrylic paint, charcoal, pencil or graphite, watercolor, photography, mixed media or digital media. Works will be judged on interpretation of theme, creativity and design. One-time college scholarships totaling $45,000 will be awarded to 10 seniors and five juniors, with the top winner receiving $6,000 to put towards college. If you’re interested, or know of a student who might be, visit RodrigueFoundation.org/ArtContest to learn more. The deadline for entries is Feb. 20, so don’t delay. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Email: rdpeyton@gmail.com

S A R A E S S E X B R A D L E Y P H O T O G R A P H S

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T HE M EN U

FOOD

Eating Light Resolution recipes BY DALE CURRY

ere w e are at d i et m onth i n the fa c e of K i ng

Cakes and Super Bowl. My ploy? Not to eat a single chip in January. Or a cookie, or a piece of King Cake. It is the only way. Now I’m not one to do without when it comes to food. It gets me in a real bad mood to eat 1,000 calories a day or live off cabbage soup. But when something has to be done, I turn to eating less and slightly altering the things I like. For example, I’ve picked several palatable breakfasts that I alternate – Activia blueberry yogurt, a bowl of Special K Cinnamon Pecan cereal, a piece of cheese toast, a soft-boiled egg over dry toast or a small bowl of grits with a touch of butter. If you need more, add a banana. Then, it’s on to lunch. If at home, I go for a lean meat sandwich using mustard only or a salad with a few strips of turkey and cheese and a quartered boiled egg sprinkled with extra-virgin olive oil and vinegar. If out to lunch, I

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go for the entrée salads or any light lunches some restaurants are offering. For dinner, I splurge with a lean meat entrée, such as broiled or grilled fish or chicken, one starch and one or more vegetables; or, a good hearty soup with a serving of French or homemade bread. I would be the last person to say that I’ll stick to this plan, but it’s at least a good idea. And, it gets me off to a good start. I will admit that I feel better without the fried foods, extra butter and cream and stuffing myself on occasion. Ah, to be perfect! Here are some ideas I’ve come up with, especially for Super Bowl and other parties. No more chips, folks; that’s the main thing! EUGENIA UHL PHOTOGRAPH

Deviled Eggs 6 large eggs 1 teaspoon dill, preferably fresh 1 Tablespoon light mayonnaise 1 Tablespoon light sour cream Salt and pepper to taste

In a medium saucepan, bring eggs to a full boil. Cover and turn off heat. Let eggs set in water for 10 minutes without removing top. When cool enough to handle, remove shells. Cut eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks to a plate and mash with a fork. Mix in all other ingredients, saving a little dill for garnish. Stuff yolk mixture into whites. Top each egg with a small piece of dill. Makes 12 deviled eggs

Stuffed Celery 6 large stalks celery 1 cup goat cheese For garnish, use toasted walnut pieces, pomegranate seeds or both

Rinse celery in cold water and cut each stalk into thirds. (For very crispy celery, soak in

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ice water for 1 hour.) Spread the cavities of the celery with goat cheese, mounding the goat cheese slightly. Garnish with walnut pieces, pomegranate seeds or both; pomegranate seeds make a pretty presentation. Makes 18 pieces

Minestrone Soup 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 large or 2 small stalks celery, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 6 cups chicken broth 1 14 1/2-ounce can plum tomatoes with juice 2 cups canned cannelloni or kidney beans 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 2 medium carrots, chopped 1 large potato, peeled and cubed Salt, if needed, and pepper to taste 1 cup sliced zucchini 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley 3/4 cup dried pasta, such as dilalini 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan or Roman cheese

In a large, heavy pot heat olive oil and sauté onion and celery until transparent. Add garlic and sauté a minute longer. Add chicken broth, tomatoes, beans, carrots, potato and seasonings, cover and simmer for 45 minutes. With a spoon, mash a few of the beans on the side of the pot to thicken the soup. Add zucchini, parsley and pasta and cook over medium heat until pasta is done, about 10 minutes. Adjust seasonings. If soup is too thick, add water to desired consistency and heat. Serve in bowls sprinkled with cheese. Serves 6

Smoked Salmon Bites 1/4 pound sliced smoked salmon 4 ounces light cream cheese 1 Tablespoon horseradish 1 bunch fresh herbs, such as dill, tarragon or basil, chopped 1 small jar capers

Spread small pieces of salmon

(about 1-by-2 inches) on a flat service – chopping board or countertop. Mix cream cheese, horseradish and 2 Tablespoons herbs. Spread onto salmon pieces. Top with several capers each. Fold salmon over and place a toothpick through the center. Serve on a platter. Makes about 15 pieces

Rosemary Walnuts 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter 2 teaspoons dried rosemary 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 1/2 cups walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. When butter sizzles, add remaining ingredients. Stir until all walnuts are coated. Transfer onto a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Place in the oven and bake until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Leave nuts on the pan to cool. Serve at room temperature. Makes 1/2 cup

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LAST CALL

Ringing in the New Year With an Old Friend BY TIM MCNALLY

he N e w Y ear i s a t i m e to re m e m b er past

happiness and a chance to plan for the future. Maybe we can even make good on matters that have gone off track. A Hurricane – the drink, not the meteorological event – is one of those famous cocktails that has had great success but at a cost. New Orleanians have had their fling with the sweet, rum-laden concoction. Some choose to not just shun the drink but to decry it. wMake a few and serve them to friends, but don’t tell them the name of the drink. Then let them know they have been enjoying an honest-to-goodness Hurricane – an old friend.

Hurricane 2 ounces Goslings Rum 1 ounce lemon juice 1 ounce passion fruit syrup* *passion fruit syrup: 2 parts passion fruit purée 2 parts sugar 1 part water

Bring to a boil and then remove from flame As served at Felipe’s Taqueria, 301 N. Peters St., and 6215 S. Miro St.

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SARA ESSEX BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPH

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THE MENU

$= Average entrée price of $5-$10; $$=$1115; $$$=$16-20; $$$$=$21-25; $$$$$=$25 and up.

5 Fifty 5 Restaurant Marriott Hotel, 555 Canal St., 553-5555, French Quarter, 555Canal. com. B, L, D daily. This restaurant offers innovative American fare such as lobster macaroni and cheese, seasonal Gulf fish with crab and mâche salad with boudin. Many of the dishes receive an additional touch from their woodburning oven. $$$$

7 on Fulton 701 Fulton St., 525-7555, CBD/ Warehouse, 7onFulton.com. B, L, D daily. Upscale and contemporary dining destination in the Warehouse District. $$$$ 13 Restaurant and Bar 517 Frenchmen St., 942-1345, Faubourg Marigny, 13Monaghan. com. B, L, D daily. Open until 4 a.m. Late-night deli catering to hungry club-hoppers along Frenchmen Street. Bar and excellent jukebox make this a good place to refuel. $

Abita Brew Pub 72011 Holly St., (985) 892-5837, Abita Springs, AbitaBrewPub.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Famous for its Purple Haze and Turbodog brews, Abita serves up better-thanexpected pub food in their namesake eatery. “Tasteful” tours available for visitors. $$

DINING GUIDE Andrea’s Restaurant 3100 19th St., 8348583, Metairie, AndreasRestaurant.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sun. Indulge in osso buco and homemade pastas in a setting that’s both elegant and intimate; off-premise catering. New Orleans Magazine Honor Roll honoree 2009. $$$ Antoine’s 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422,

Bayona 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455, French

Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., 523-5433, French Quarter, Arnauds.com. D daily, Br Sun. Waiters in tuxedos prepare Café Brulot tableside at this storied Creole grande dame in the French Quarter; live jazz during Sun. brunch. $$$$$

The Beach House 2401 N. Woodlawn St., 456-7470, Metairie. L Wed-Fri, D daily. Gumbo, steaks, lobsters, burgers and seafood are accompanied by live music each and every night. $$$

Audubon Clubhouse 6500 Magazine St.,

Besh Steak Harrah’s Casino, 8 Canal

212-5282, Uptown. B, L Tue-Sat. Brunch Sun. Closed Mon. Nested among the oaks in Audubon Park, the beautifully-situated Clubhouse is open to the public and features a kid-friendly menu with New Orleans tweaks and a casually upscale sandwich and salad menu for adults. $$

August Moon 3635 Prytania St., 899-5129,

Aloha Sushi 1051 Annunciation St., 566-

Austin’s 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 888-5533, Metairie, AustinsNo.com. D Mon-Sat. Mr. Ed’s newest upscale bistro serves contemporary Creole fare, including seafood and steaks. $$$

A Mano 870 Tchoupitoulas St., 508-9280, Warehouse District, AManoNola.com. L Fri, D Mon-Sat. A Mano is Adolfo Garcia’s take on authentic regional Italian cuisine. Executive chef Joshua Smith handles day-to-day duties at this Warehouse District spot. “A mano” means “by hand” in Italian; fitting for a restaurant where much of the pasta and charcuterie are made in-house. $$

Ancora 4508 Freret St., 324-1636, Uptown, AncoraPizza.com. L Fri-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza fired in an oven imported from Naples keeps pizza connoisseurs coming back to this Freret Street hot-spot. The housemade charcuterie makes it a double-winner. $$

Basil Leaf Restaurant 1438 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-9001, Uptown, BasilLeafThai.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily. Thai food and sushi bar with a contemporary spin is served in this date-friendly establishment; private rooms available. $$

French Quarter, Antoines.com. L Mon-Sat, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. This pinnacle of haute cuisine and birthplace of Oysters Rockefeller is New Orleans’ oldest restaurant. (Every item is á la carte, with an $11 minimum.) Private dining rooms are available. $$$$$

Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville St., 5225973, French Quarter; 3000 Veterans Blvd., 309-4056, Metairie; 1202 N. Highway 190, (985) 246-6155, Covington; AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$ 0021, Warehouse District, SunRayGrill.com. L, D Mon-Sun. A large list of rolls, hot rice bowls, Asian-inspired soups, salads, cocktails and more. Visit daily between 11-6:30 p.m. for Sake Hour: half-priced sake and three rolls for the price of two. $$

space, renovated largely by Laurentino himself, is charming. $

899-5122, Uptown, MoonNola.com. L, D MonFri, D Sat. Lots of vegetarian offerings and reasonable prices make this dependable Chinese/ Vietnamese place a popular choice for students and locals. Take-out and delivery available. $

The Avenue Pub 1732 St. Charles Ave., 586-9243, Uptown, TheAvenuePub.com. L, D daily (kitchen open 24 hours a day). With more than 47 rotating draft beers, this pub also offers food including a cheese plate from St. James, a crab cake sandwich and the “Pub Burger.” $ Bacchanal Fine Wines and Spirits 600 Poland Ave., 948-9111, Bywater, BacchanalWine.com. L, D daily. The pop-up that started it all, this ongoing backyard music and food fest in the heart of Bywater carries the funky flame. Best of all, the front of house is a wine shop. $$

Barcelona Tapas 720 Dublin St., 8619696, Riverbend, LetsEat.at/BarcelonaTapas. D Tue-Sun. Barcelona Tapas is chef-owner Xavier Laurentino’s homage to the small-plates restaurants he knew from his hometown of Barcelona. The tapas are authentic, and the

Quarter, Bayona.com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Chef Susan Spicer’s nationally acclaimed cuisine is served in this 200-year-old cottage. Ask for a seat on the romantic patio, weatherpermitting. $$$$$

St., 533-6111, CBD/Warehouse District, HarrahsNewOrleans.com. D daily. Acclaimed Chef John Besh reinterprets the classic steakhouse with his signature contemporary Louisiana flair. New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007. $$$$$

The Bistro at Maison De Ville 733 Toulouse St., 528-9206, French Quarter, BistroMaisondeVille.com. L, D Thu-Mon. Chef and co-owner Greg Picolo has a deft hand with panéed frog legs at this historic New Orleans institution. Other good choices include his house-smoked salmon rillettes and his duck sampler. $$$$$

CBD/Warehouse District, TheBonTonCafe.com. L, D Mon-Fri. A local favorite for the old-school business lunch crowd, it specializes in local seafood and Cajun dishes. $$$$

Bouche 840 Tchoupitoulas St., 267-7485, Warehouse District, BoucheNola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Bouche is a mix of lounge, cigar bar and restaurant with an open kitchen serving largely Southern food in portions Bouche calls “Partailles” – something larger than an appetizer but smaller than an entrée. $$$ Boucherie 8115 Jeannette St., 862-5514, Riverbend, Boucherie-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Serving contemporary Southern food with an international angle, Chef Nathaniel Zimet offes excellent ingredients, presented simply. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2009. $$ Brennan’s 417 Royal St., 525-9711, French Quarter, BrennansNewOrleans.com. Br, L, D daily. The institution that turned breakfast into a celebration and introduced bananas Foster to the world is one of the city’s most storied destinations. Enjoy a brandy milk punch in the courtyard while you’re there. $$$$$

Brigtsen’s 723 Dante St., 861-7610, Uptown, Brigtsens.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Frank Brigtsen’s nationally-famous Creole cuisine makes this cozy Riverbend cottage a true foodie destination. $$$$$ Broken Egg Cafe 200 Girod St., (985)

Bistro Daisy 5831 Magazine St., 899-6987,

231-7125, Mandeville. B, Br, L daily. Breakfastcentric café in turn-of-the-century home offers a sprawling assortment of delicious items both healthy and decadent. $$

Uptown, BistroDaisy.com. D, Tue-Sat. Chef Anton Schulte and his wife Diane’s bistro, named in honor of their daughter, serves creative and contemporary bistro fare in a romantic setting along Magazine Street. The signature Daisy Salad is a favorite. $$$$

Brooklyn Pizzeria 4301 Veterans Blvd., 833-1288, Metairie, EatBrooklyn.net. L, D daily (Drive thru/take out). Pie shop on Vets specializes in New York-style thin crust. The pizza is the reason to come, but sandwiches and salads are offered as well. $

Blue Plate Café 1330 Prytania St., 3099500, Uptown. B, L Mon-Fri, B Sat. Breakfasts and lunches are the hallmarks of this neighborhood spot. The Ignatius sandwich comes equipped with 10 inches of paradise. Breakfast is served all day on Sat. $

Broussard’s 819 Conti St., 581-3866, French

The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel,

Quarter, Broussards.com. D daily. Chef-owner Gunter Preuss brings his pedigree and years of experience to the table in offering up some of the city’s best Creole cuisine in an opulent French Quarter setting. New Orleans Magazine Honor Roll honoree 2006. $$$$$

830 Conti St., 586-0972, French Quarter, TheBombayClub.com. D Mon-Sun. Popular martini bar appointed with plush British décor features live music during the week and late dinner and drinks on weekends. Nouveau Creole menu includes items such as Bombay drum. $$$$

Byblos 1501 Metairie Road, 834-9773,

Bon Ton Cafe 401 Magazine St., 524-3386,

Café Adelaide Loews New Orleans Hotel,

Metairie; 3218 Magazine St., 894-1233, Uptown; 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 8307333 Metairie; 29 McAlister Drive, Tulane University; ByblosRestaurants.com. L, D daily. Upscale Middle Eastern cuisine featuring traditional seafood, lamb and vegetarian options. $$

January at Muriel’s

801 Chartres St., 568-9795, Muriels.com

January may be a quiet and cold month in other cities, but not in New Orleans. Take Muriel’s in Jackson Square for example. Founded in 1718 at the same time as the city, it’s one of the oldest and most historic restaurants in the country and is open seven days a week. Executive chef Gus Martin, who has worked in many of the city’s top eateries, produces fresh and fantastic interpretations of this city’s best-loved dishes. The Sunday Brunch with a jazz trio is almost an institution in itself. – M irella cameran 62

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300 Poydras St., 595-3305, CBD/Warehouse District, CafeAdelaide.com. B Mon-Sun, L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sun. This offering from the Commander’s Palace family of restaurants has become a power-lunch favorite for businessmen and politicos. Also features the Swizzle Stick Bar. $$$$

Café Burnside Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, Darrow, HoumasHouse.com. L daily, Br Sun. Historic plantation’s casual dining option features dishes such as seafood pasta, fried catfish, crawfish and shrimp, gumbo and red beans and rice. $$

Café Degas 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635, Mid-City, CafeDegas.com. L Wed-Sat, D WedSun, Br Sun. Light French bistro food including salads and quiche make this indoor/outdoor boîte a Faubourg St. John favorite. $$$ Café du Monde 800 Decatur St., 525-0454, French Quarter; One Poydras Suite 27, 5870841, New Orleans; 3301 Veterans Blvd., Suite 104, 834-8694, Metairie; 1401 West Esplanade, Suite 100, 468-3588, Kenner; 4700 Veterans Blvd., 888-9770, Metairie; 1814 N. Causeway Approach, Suite 1, (985) 951-7474, Mandeville; CafeDuMonde.com. This New Orleans institution has been serving fresh café au lait, rich hot chocolate and positively addictive beignets since 1862 in the French Market 24/7. $ Café Equator 2920 Severn Ave., 888-4772, Metairie, cadeequator.com. L, D Mon-Sun. Very good Thai food across the street from Lakeside Mall. Offers a quiet and oftoverlooked dining option in a crowded part of town. $$

Café Freret 7329 Freret St., 861-7890, Uptown, CafeFreret.com. B, L, D Fri-Wed. Convenient location near Tulane and Loyola

universities makes this a place for students (and dogs) to indulge in decadent breakfasts, casual lunches and tasty dinners – and their “A la Collar” menu. $$

Café at Gambino’s 4821 Veteran’s Memorial Blvd., 885-3620, Metairie, Gambinos.com. L Mon-Fri. Café nested in Gambino’s Bakery is a favorite local lunch spot featuring muffelattas, salads and soups. Afterward, pick up some Italian cookies to take back to the office. $

Café Giovanni 117 Decatur St., 529-2154, Downtown, CafeGiovanni.com. D Mon-Sun. Live opera singers three nights a week round out the atmosphere at this contemporary Italian dining destination. The menu offers a selection of Italian specialties tweaked with a Creole influence and their Belli Baci happy hour adds to the atmosphere. $$$$ Café Luna 802 Nashville Ave., 269-2444, Uptown. B, L daily. Charismatic coffee shop in a converted house offers a range of panini, caffeinated favorites and free Wi-Fi. The front porch is a prime spot for people-watching along adjacent Magazine Street. $ Café Maspero 601 Decatur St., 523-6250, French Quarter. L, D daily. Tourists line up for their generous portions of seafood and large deli sandwiches. $

Café Minh 4139 Canal St., 482-6266, MidCity, CafeMinh.com. L Mon-Fri., D Mon-Sat. Closed Sun. Chef Minh Bui brings his fusion-y touch with Vietnamese cuisine to this corner location. French accents and a contemporary flair make this one of the more notable crosscultural venues in town. $$

Café Negril 606 Frenchmen St., 944-4744, Marigny. D daily. Frenchman Street music club draws locals in with their lineup of live Reggae and blues. Tacos and BBQ in back are

a plus for late-night revelers. $

rice – a take on calas or Italian arancini. $$

Café Nino 1510 S. Carrollton Ave., 865-

Carmo 527 Julia St., 875-4132, Warehouse

9200, Carrollton. L, D daily. Non-descript exterior belies old-school Italian hideaway serving up red-sauce classics like lasagna, along with some of the more under-the-radar New York-style thin crust pizza in town. $$

District, CafeCarmo.com. L Mon-Sat., D TueSat. Caribbean-inspired fare offers a creative array of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free fare in a sleek location on Julia Street. One of the few places in the city where healthy dining is celebrated rather than accommodated. $$

Café Opera 541 Bourbon St., 648-2331, Inside Four Points by Sheraton, French Quarter. B, L daily, D Thurs-Sat. Chef Philippe Andreani serves Creole and Continental classics on the site of the old French Opera House. Choices include crabmeat beignets with corn maque choux as well as fried green tomatoes with shrimp remoulade. Validated parking is offered for dine-in. $$$

Cake Café 2440 Chartres St., 943-0010, Marigny, NolaCakes.com. B, L daily. The name may read cakes but this café offers a whole lot more, including fresh baked goods and a full breakfast menu along with sandwiches. A popular place to while away a slow New Orleans morning with a coffee and a slice. $

Camellia Grill 626 S. Carrollton Ave., 3092679, Uptown; 540 Chartres St., 533-6250, Downtown. B, L, D daily, until 1 a.m. Sun-Thu and 3 a.m. Fri-Sat. The venerable diner has reopened following an extensive renovation and change in ownership (in 2006). Patrons can rest assured that its essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned. The new downtown location has a liquor license and credit cards are now accepted. $

Capdeville 520 Capdeville St., 371-5161, French Quarter, CapdevilleNola.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Capdeville is an upscale bar-bistro with a short but interesting menu of food that’s a mix of comfort and ambition. Burgers are on offer, but so are fried red beans and

Carmelo Ristorante 1901 Highway 190, (985) 624-4844, Mandeville, RistoranteCarmelo.com. L Fri-Sun, D MonSat. Italian trattoria serves old-world classics. Private rooms available. $$ Casamento’s 4330 Magazine St., 895-9761, Uptown, CasamentosRestaurant.com. L TueSat, D Thu-Sat. The family-owned restaurant has shucked oysters and fried seafood since 1919; closed during summer and for all major holidays. $$ CC’s Community Coffee House Multiple locations in New Orleans, Metairie and Northshore, CCsCoffee.com. Coffeehouse specializing in coffee, espresso drinks and pastries. $

Chateau du Lac 2037 Metairie Road, 831-3773, Old Metairie, ChateauduLacBistro. com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. This casual French bistro offers up classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin and blanquette de veau. A Provençal-inspired atmosphere and French wine round out the appeal. $$$$

Checkered Parrot 132 Royal St., 592-1270, French Quarter, CheckeredParrot.com. B, L, D Mon-Sun. The Checkered Parrot is an upscale sports bar with a large menu, featuring nachos, fajitas, wings in seven flavors, wraps and burgers, and an outdoor patio. $$ Chiba 8312 Oak St., 826-9119, Carrollton, chiba-nola.com. L Thurs-Sat, D Mon-

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T HE M E N U Sat. Contemporary restaurant on Oak Street features an extensive list of special rolls, steamed buns and fusion-y fare to go along with typical Japanese options. Late night hours are a plus. $$$

Chophouse New Orleans 322 Magazine St., 522-7902, CBD, ChophouseNola.com. D daily. In addition to USDA prime grade aged steaks prepared under a broiler that reaches 1,700 degrees, Chophouse offers lobster, redfish and classic steakhouse sides. $$$

Clancy’s 6100 Annunciation St., 895-1111, Uptown, ClancysNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Their Creole-inspired menu has been a favorite of locals for years. $$$

Cochon 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 588-2123,

DINING GUIDE Coquette 2800 Magazine St., 265-0421, Uptown, Coquette-Nola.com. Br Sun, L WedSat, D Mon-Sat. A bistro located at the corner of Washington and Magazine streets. The food is French in inspiration and technique, with added imagination from chef Michael Stoltzfus (New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Chef 2009). $$$ Corky’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant 4243 Veterans Blvd., 887-5000, Metairie, CorkysBarBQ.com. L, D daily. Memphis-based barbecue chain offers good hickory-smoked ribs, pork and beef in a family setting with catering service available. $ Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St., 5227261, French Quarter, CourtOfTwoSisters. com. Br, D daily. The historic environs make for a memorable outdoor dining experience. The famous daily Jazz Brunch buffet and classic Creole dishes sweeten the deal. $$$$$

CBD/Warehouse District, CochonRestaurant. com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski showcase Cajun and Southern cuisine at this Warehouse District hot spot. Boudin and other pork dishes reign supreme here, along with Louisiana seafood and real moonshine from the bar. New Orleans Magazine named Link Chef of the Year 2009. Reservations strongly recommended. $$

Crabby Jack’s 428 Jefferson Highway, 8332722, Jefferson. L Mon-Sat. Lunch outpost of Jacques-Imo’s chef and owner Jack Leonardi. Famous for its fried seafood and poor boys including fried green tomatoes and roasted duck. $

Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington

The Creole Grille 5241 Veterans Blvd.,

Ave., 899-8221, Uptown, CommandersPalace. com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sun, Br Sat-Sun. The Grande Dame in the Garden District is going strong under the auspices of Chef Tory McPhail. The turtle soup might be the best in the city, and its weekend Jazz Brunch is a great deal. $$$$

889-7992, Metairie, TheCreoleGrille.com. L, D Mon-Sat. This quaint, upscale restaurant offers a variety of classic New Orleans cuisine, fresh fish and homemade soups and salads with early bird and daily chef specials. $$

Cooter Brown’s 509 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9104, Uptown, CooterBrowns.com. L, D daily. Riverbend-area sports bar serves up the city’s largest selection of beers along with great bar food. The cheese fries are a rite of passage, and the Radiator’s Special poor boy makes for a great late-night meal. $

Copeland’s 701 Veterans Blvd., 831-3437, Metairie; 1001 S. Clearview Parkway, 6207800, Jefferson; 1319 West Esplanade Ave., 617-9146, Kenner; 1700 Lapalco Blvd., 364-1575, Harvey; 680 N. Highway 190, (985) 809-9659, Covington; 1337 Gause Blvd., (985) 643-0001, Slidell; CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$

Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro 4517 Veterans Blvd., 454-7620, Metairie; 2001 St. Charles Ave., 593-9955, Garden District; CopelandsCheesecakeBistro.com. L, D daily. Dessert fans flock to this sweet-centric Copeland establishment which also offers extensive lunch and dinner menus. $$$

Crépes a la Carte 1039 Broadway St., 866-236, Uptown, CrepeCaterer.com. B, L, D daily. Open late. An extensive menu of tasty crêpes, both savory and sweet, make this a great spot for a quick bite for college students and locals. $

Crescent City Brewhouse 527 Decatur St., 522-0571, French Quarter, CrescentCityBrehouse.com. L Fri-Sun, D daily. Contemporary brewpub features an eclectic menu complimenting its freshly-brewed wares. Live jazz and good location make it a fun place to meet up. $$$ Crescent City Steakhouse 1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271, Mid-City, CrescentCitySteaks. com. L Tue-Fri & Sun, D Tue-Sun. One of the classic New Orleans steakhouses, it’s a throwback in every sense of the term. Steaks, sides and drinks are what you get at Crescent City. New Orleans Magazine’s Steakhouse of the Year 2009 and Honor Roll honoree 2007. $$$$

Criollo 214 Royal St., Hotel Monteleone, 681-4444, French Quarter, HotelMonteleone. com/Criollo/. B, L, D daily. Next to the famous Carousel Bar in the historic Monteleone Hotel, Criollo represents an amalgam of the various

Audubon Clubhouse: Two Local “Greats” In One

6500 Magazine St., 212-5452, AudubonInstitute.org/visit/Clubhouse-Cafe

The beautiful Acadian-style home that houses the Audubon Clubhouse Café has been a bit of an insider’s secret. Lately, more people have realized it combines two of New Orleans’ “greats.” Sitting on its veranda is a wonderful way to take in the serenity of Audubon Park but all the while you can be sampling some of the city’s favorite culinary dishes. With Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras coming up in the new year, the clubhouse will play host to lots of visitors and locals alike. – M irella cameran 64

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cultures reflected in Louisiana cooking and cuisine, often with a slight contemporary twist. $$$

The Crystal Room Le Pavillon Hotel, 833 Poydras St., 581-3111, CBD/Warehouse District, LePavillon.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Franco-American cuisine with Louisiana influences is served in the environs of the Le Pavillon Hotel. The Southern-style breakfast features its decadent Bananas Foster Waffle “Le Pavillon.” $$$ Dakota 629 N. Highway 190, (985) 8923712, Covington, RestaurantCuvee.com/ Dakota. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sat. A sophisticated dining experience with generous portions. $$$$$ The Delachaise 3442 St. Charles Ave., 8950858, Uptown, TheDelachaise.com. L Fri-Sat, D daily. Elegant bar food fit for the wine connoisseur; kitchen open late. $$

Dick and Jenny’s 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 894-9880, Uptown, DickAndJennys.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. A funky cottage serving Louisiana comfort food with flashes of innovation. $$$$

Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House 144 Bourbon St., 522-0111, French Quarter, BourbonHouse.com. B, L, D daily. Classic Creole dishes such as redfish on the halfshell and baked oysters are served with classic Brennan’s style at this French Quarter outpost. Its extensive bourbon menu will please aficionados. $$$$

Vietnamese bakery and restaurant in the community of Versailles makes great banh mi sandwiches and interesting baked goods both savory and sweet. Unbeatable prices. $

Drago’s 3232 N. Arnoult Road, 888-9254, Metairie; Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 584-3911, CBD/Warehouse District; DragosRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented. Raucous but good-natured atmosphere makes this a fun place to visit. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$

Dry Dock Cafe & Bar 133 Delaronde St., 361-8240, Algiers, TheDryDockCafe.com. Br Sun, L, D daily. Fancier daily specials have been added to the menu of this casual neighborhood seafood joint in historic Algiers Point near the ferry landing. Burgers, sandwiches and fried seafood are the staples. $$

El Gato Negro 81 French Market Place, 525-9752, French Quarter, ElGatoNegroNola. com. B Sat-Sun, L, D daily. Popular spot near the Frenchmen Street clubs serves up authentic Central Mexican cuisine along with handmuddled mojitos and margaritas made with fresh-squeezed juice. A weekend breakfast menu is an additional plus. $$ Elizabeth’s 601 Gallier St., 944-9272, Bywater, Elizabeths-Restaurant.com. B, L TueFri, D Tue-Sat, Br Sat-Sun. This eclectic local restaurant draws rave reviews for its Praline Bacon and distinctive Southern-inspired brunch specials. $$$

Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse 716

Emeril’s 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 528-9393,

Iberville St., 522-2467, French Quarter, DickieBrennansSteakhouse.com. L Fri, D daily. Nationally recognized steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks and local seafood in a New Orleans setting with the usual Brennan’s family flair. $$$$$

Fat Hen Grill 1821 Hickory Ave., 287-4581,

Domenica The Roosevelt Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 648-6020, CBD, DomenicaRestaurant. com. L, D daily. Executive Chef Alon Shaya serves authentic, regional Italian cuisine in John Besh’s sophisticated new restaurant. The menu of thin, lightly topped pizzas, artisanal salumi and cheese, and a carefully chosen selection of antipasti, pasta and entrées, feature locally raised products, some from Besh’s Northshore farm. $$$$

Domilise’s 5240 Annunciation St., 8999126, Uptown. L, D Mon-Sat. Local institution and rite-of-passage for those wanting an initiation to the real New Orleans. Wonderful poor boys and a unique atmosphere make this a one-of-a-kind place. $

Dong Phuong 14207 Chef Menteur Highway, 254-0296, N.O. East. L Wed-Mon.

CBD/Warehouse District, Emerils.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily. The flagship of superstar chef Emeril Lagasse’s culinary empire, this Warehouse District landmark attracts pilgrims from all over the world. $$$$$ Harahan, FatHenGrill.com. B, L, D daily. Breakfast gets re-imagined and dressed up at this Harahan diner headed by Chef Shane Pritchett, formerly of Emeril’s Delmonico. The house special is the Womlette, an omelet baked on a waffle. $$

Feelings Cafe 2600 Chartres St., 9452222, Faubourg Marigny, FeelingsCafe.com. D Thu-Sun, Br Sun. Romantic ambiance and skillfully created dishes, such as veal d’aunoy, make dining here on the patio a memorable experience. A piano bar on Fridays adds to the atmosphere. $$$$ Fellini’s Café 900 N. Carrollton Ave., 4882155, Mid-City, FellinisNewOrleans.com. L, D daily. With décor inspired by its namesake Italian filmmaker, this casual indoor/outdoor spot on Carrollton Avenue serves large por-

tions of reasonably-priced Mediterranean specialties such as pizza, pastas and hummus. $

Fiesta Latina 1924 Airline Drive, 469-5792, Kenner, FiestaLatinaRestaurant.com. B, L, D Tue-Sun. A big-screen TV normally shows a soccer match or MTV Latino at this home for authentic Central American food. Tacos include a charred carne asada. $$

Five Happiness 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935, Mid-City, FiveHappiness.com. L, D Mon-Sun. This longtime Chinese favorite offers up an extensive menu including its beloved mu shu pork and house baked duck. It’s a popular choice for families as well. $$

Flaming Torch 737 Octavia St., 895-0900, Uptown, FlamingTorchNola.com. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. French classics including a tasty onion soup make this a nice place for a slightly upscale lunch while shopping along Magazine Street. $$

Frank’s 933 Decatur St., 525-1602, French Quarter, FranksRestaurantNewOrleans.com. L, D daily. Locally inspired Italian sandwiches such as muffulettas and Genoa salami poor boys are served here in the heart of the French Quarter. $$$

Galatoire’s 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, French Quarter, Galatoires.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Friday lunches are a New Orleans tradition at this world-famous French-Creole grand dame. Tradition counts for everything here, and the crabmeat Sardou is delicious. Note: Jackets required for dinner and all day Sun. $$$$$

The Galley Seafood Restaurant 2535 Metairie Road, 832-0955, Metairie. L, D TueSat. A great local place for seafood, both fried and boiled. Famous for its softshell crab poor boy, a Jazz Fest favorite. $$ Gautreau’s 1728 Soniat St., 899-7397, Uptown, GautreausRestaurant.com. D,

Mon-Sat. Upscale destination serves refined interpretations of classics along with contemporary creations in a clubby setting nested deep within a residential neighborhood. New Orleans Magazine named Sue Zemanick Chef of the Year 2008. $$$$$

Gott Gourmet Café 3100 Magazine St., 522-7902, Uptown, GottGourmetCafe.com. L, Tue-Fri, D, Tue-Sun. Upscale-casual restaurant serves a variety of specialty sandwiches, salads and wraps, like the Chicago-style hot dog and the St. Paddy’s Day Massacre – Chef Gotter’s take on the Rueben. $$

Gracious Bakery + Café 1000 S. Jeff Davis Parkway, Suite 100, 301-3709, MidCity, GraciousBakery.com. B, L Mon-Sat. Boutique bakery in the ground floor of the new Woodward Building offers small-batch coffee, baked goods, individual desserts and sandwiches on breads made in-house. Catering options are available as well. $ The Green Goddess 307 Exchange Alley, 301-3347, French Quarter, GreenGoddessNola. com. Br, L daily, D Thu-Sun. Located in a tiny space, the Green Goddess is one of the most imaginative restaurants in New Orleans. The menu is constantly changing, and chefs Chris DeBarr (New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Chef 2006) and Paul Artigues always have ample vegetarian options. Combine all of that with a fantastic selection of drinks, wine and beer, and it’s the total (albeit small) package. $$

The Grill Room Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 522-1994, CBD/Warehouse District, GrillRoomNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun. Jazz Brunch on Sunday with live music. Featuring modern American cuisine with a distinctive New Orleans flair, the adjacent Polo Club Lounge offers live music nightly. $$$$$

GW Fins 808 Bienville St., 581-FINS (3467), French Quarter, GWFins.com. D daily. To ensure the best possible flavors at GW Fins, owners Gary Wollerman and Tenney Flynn provide dishes at their seasonal peak by flying in products from around the globe. That commitment to freshness and quest for unique variety are two of the reasons why the menu is printed daily. $$$$$ Herbsaint 701 St. Charles Ave., 524-4114, CBD/Warehouse District, Herbsaint.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail before sampling Chef Donald Link’s (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2009) menu that melds contemporary bistro fare with classic Louisiana cuisine. The banana brown butter tart is a favorite dessert. $$$$$ Hevin 5015 Magazine St., 895-2246, Uptown. L, D Mon-Fri. Chef Kevin Vizard brings casual, family-friendly fare to a quiet, residential stretch of Magazine Street. “Po-Ninis”, i.e. pressed poor boys, are a specialty, and daily “hot plates” are offered as well. $

Horinoya 920 Poydras St., 561-8914, CBD/ Warehouse District. L Mon-Fri, D daily. Excellent Japanese dining in an understated and oft-overlooked location. The chu-toro is delicious and the selection of authentic Japanese appetizers is the best in the city. $$$ Hoshun Restaurant 1601 St. Charles Ave., 302-9716, Garden District, HoshunRestaurant. com. L, D daily. Hoshun offers a wide variety of Asian cuisines, primarily dishes culled from China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia. Their five-pepper calamari is a tasty way to begin the meal, and their creative sushi rolls are good as well. $$

House of Blues 225 Decatur St., 529-BLUE

(2583), French Quarter, HouseOfBlues.com. L, D daily. World-famous Gospel Brunch every Sunday. Surprisingly good menu makes this a compliment to the music in the main room. Patio seating is available as well. $$

Hunt Room Grill Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., 523-3341, French Quarter. D daily. Enjoy elegant dining and a great wine selection in the historic Monteleone hotel. $$$ Il Posto Café 4607 Dryades St., 8952620, Uptown, ilPostoCafe-Nola.com. B, L, D Tue-Sat, B, L Sun. Italian café specializes in pressed panini, like their Milano, featuring sopressata, Fontina, tomatoes and balsamic on ciabatta. Soups, imported coffee and H&H bagels make this a comfortable neighborhood spot to relax with the morning paper. $

Impastato’s 3400 16th St., 455-1545, Metairie, Impastatos.com. D daily. Bustling Italian restaurant on the edge of Fat City serves homemade pasta in a convivial atmosphere. Chef/Owner Joe Impastato greets guests warmly and treats them like family. The prix fixe options are a good way to taste a lot for not much money. $$$$ Irene’s Cuisine 539 St. Philip St., 5298811, French Quarter. D Mon-Sat. Long waits at the lively piano bar are part of the appeal of this Creole-Italian favorite beloved by locals. Try the oysters Irene and crabmeat gratin appetizers. $$$$ Iris 321 N. Peters St., 299-3944, French Quarter, IrisNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon, Wed-Sat. This inviting bistro offers sophisticated fare in a charming setting. The veal cheek ravioli is a winner. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2006. $$$$ Jack Dempsey’s 738 Poland Ave., 9439914, Bywater, JackDempseysLLC.com. L Tue-Fri, D Wed-Sat. Local favorite nestled

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T HE M E N U deep in the heart of the Bywater is known for its stuffed flounder and baked macaroni served in generous portions. $$$

Jacques-Imo’s Cafe 8324 Oak St., 8610886, Uptown, JacquesimosCafe.com. D Mon-Sat. Reinvented New Orleans cuisine served in a party atmosphere are the cornerstones of this Oak Street institution. The deep-fried roast beef poor boy is delicious. The lively bar scene offsets the long wait on weekends. $$$$ Jamila’s Café 7808 Maple St., 866-4366, Uptown. D Tue-Sun. Intimate and exotic bistro serving Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine. The Grilled Merguez is a Jazz Fest favorite and vegetarian options are offered. $$ Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Café 1104 Decatur St., 592-2565, French Quarter, MargaritavilleNewOrleans.com. L, D daily. Parrotheads and other music lovers flock to Jimmy’s outpost along the more local-friendly stretch of Decatur. Strong bar menu and stronger drinks keep them coming back. $$

Joey K’s 3001 Magazine St., 891-0997, Uptown, JoeyKsRestaurant.com. L, D MonSat. A true neighborhood New Orleans restaurant with daily lunch plates keeps it real along this rapidly gentrifying stretch of Magazine Street. Red beans and rice are classic. $ The Joint 701 Mazant St., 949-3232, Bywater, AlwaysSmokin.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Some of the city’s best barbecue can be had at this locally owned and operated favorite in Bywater. $

Juan’s Flying Burrito 2018 Magazine St., 569-0000, Uptown; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950, Mid-City. L, D Mon-Sun. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $ Jung’s Golden Dragon 3009 Magazine St., Uptown, JungsGoldenDragon2.com. L, D daily. This Chinese destination is a real find. Along with the usual you’ll find spicy cold noodle dishes, dumplings and a Beijing-style breakfast on the weekends. This is one of the few local Chinese places that breaks the Americanized mold. $

Kosher Cajun New York Deli and Grocery 3520 N. Hullen St., 888-2010, Metairie, KosherCajun.com. L Mon-Fri & Sun, D Mon-Thu. Great kosher meals and complete kosher grocery in the rear make this Metairie eatery a unique destination. The matzo ball soup is a winner and catering is available for parties of any size. $

K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 416

DINING GUIDE Chartres St., 524-7394, French Quarter, ChefPaul.com/KPaul. L Thu-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Paul Prudhomme’s landmark restaurant helped introduce Cajun food to a grateful nation. Lots of seasoning and bountiful offerings, along with reserved seating, make this a destination for locals and tourists alike. $$$$

Latil’s Landing Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, Darrow, HoumasHouse.com. L Sun, D Wed-Sun. Nouvelle Louisiane, plantation-style cooking served in an opulent setting features dishes like rack of lamb and plume de veau. $$$$$

Uptown, MahonysPoBoys.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Along with the usual poor boys, this sandwich shop serves up a Grilled Shrimp and Fried Green Tomato version dressed with remoulade sauce. Sandwich offerings are augmented by a full bar. $

Le Meritage 1001 Toulouse, 522-8800,

Mandina’s 3800 Canal St., 482-9179, Mid-

Kyoto 4920 Prytania St., 891-3644, Uptown,

French Quarter, LeMeritageRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sat. This restaurant blends fine wines with Southern-flavored cuisine for a memorable fine-dining experience in a casual environment. Chef Michael Farrell’s well-rounded menu features suggested wine and food pairings, along with full or half servings both by the glass and by the plate. Complimentary valet parking. $$$

City, MandinasRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Quintessential New Orleans neighborhood institution reopened following an extensive renovation. Though the ambiance is more upscale, the same food and seafood dishes make dining here a New Orleans experience. $$

KyotoNola.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A neighborhood sushi restaurant where the regulars order off-the-menu rolls. $$

La Boca 857 Fulton St., 525-8205, Warehouse District, LaBocaSteaks.com. D Mon-Sat. This Argentine steakhouse in the blossoming Fulton Street corridor specializes in cuts of meat along with pastas and wines. Specials include the provoleta appetizer and the Vacio flank steak. New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2006. $$$ Lakeview Harbor 911 Harrison Ave., 4864887, Lakeview, Lakeview-Harbor.com. L, D daily. Burgers are the name of the game here at this restaurant which shares a pedigree with Snug Harbor and Port of Call. Rounded out with a loaded baked potato, their halfpound patties are sure to please. Daily specials, pizza and steaks are offered as well. $

La Macarena Pupuseria & Latin Cafe 8120 Hampson St., 862-5252, Uptown. L, D Mon-Fri, Br,L, D Sat & Sun. This cash-only and BYOB restaurant has recently overhauled their menu, now including a large selection of vegan and vegetarian items, as well as a tapas menu. $$

La Petite Grocery 4238 Magazine St., 891-3377, Uptown, LaPetiteGrocery.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Elegant dining in a convivial atmosphere quickly made this place an Uptown darling. The menu is heavily French-inspired with an emphasis on technique. $$$ La Provence 25020 Highway 190, (985) 626-7662, Lacombe, LaProvenceRestaurant. com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun. John Besh (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007) upholds time-honored Provençal cuisine and rewards his guests with a true farm-life experience, from house-made preserves, charcuterie, herbs, kitchen gardens and eggs cultivated on the property, an elegant French colonial stucco house. $$$$$

La Thai Uptown 4938 Prytania St., 8998886, Uptown, LaThaiUptown.com. L, D TueSun. Uptown outpost of the Chauvin family’s ingredient-driven Thai-Cajun fusion cuisine. The summer rolls are good as is the tom kar gai soup. Lunch specials are a good deal and vegetarian dishes are offered as well. $$

Le Salon Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 596-4773, CBD/Warehouse District. L Buffet Mon-Fri. Also, Afternoon Tea, ThuSun, Seating at 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Formal afternoon tea with harpist or string quartet served in a sophisticated atmosphere. A local mother-daughter tradition. $$

Liborio’s Cuban Restaurant 321 Magazine St., 581-9680, CBD/Warehouse District, LiborioCuban.com. L Mon-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Authentic Cuban favorites such as Ropa Vieja and pressed Cuban sandwiches along with great specials make this a popular lunch choice. $$$

Lil’ Lizzy’s 1500 Esplanade Ave., 569-8997, Mid-City. B Mon-Sat, L Mon-Fri. Spot local and national politicos dining at this favored Creole soul restaurant known for homey classics like fried chicken and Trout Baquet. $ Lilette 3637 Magazine St., 895-1636, Uptown, LiletteRestaurant.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Chef John Harris’ innovative menu draws discerning diners to this highly regarded bistro on Magazine Street. Desserts are wonderful as well. $$$$$ Lola’s 3312 Esplanade Ave., 488-6946, Mid-City. D daily. Garlicky Spanish dishes and great paella make this artsy Faubourg St. John boîte a hipster destination. $$$

Lüke 333 St. Charles Ave., 378-2840, CBD, LukeNewOrleans.com. Br Sat-Sun, B, L, D daily. John Besh (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007) and executive chef Matt Regan characterize the cuisine “Alsace meets New Orleans in an authentic brasserie setting.” Germanic specialties and French bistro classics, house-made patés and abundant plateaux of cold, fresh seafood. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2007. $$$

Mahony’s 3454 Magazine St., 899-3374,

Zea’s Seafood Season Menu Multiple locations, ZeaRestaurants.com

There will be a Special Seafood Menu at Zea’s from Feb. 13 through May 5, 2013. A returning favorite is the Asian Sesame Oysters, plump Louisiana oysters fried crisp and laced with a ginger sauce, Asian chili glaze and a sprinkling of sesame seeds. New this year are the Alligator Tacos: crispy fried alligator tossed in a spicy red pepper salsa, garnished with a sweet vinegar slaw, cilantro onion relish and an avocado Serrano crème. We also heard that the folks behind Zea are working on a whole new concept ... watch this space! – M irella cameran 66

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Maple Street Café 7623 Maple St., 3149003, Uptown. L, Mon-Sat, D, Mon-Sun. Casual dinner spot serving Mediterraneaninspired pastas and entrées, along with heartier fare such as duck and filet mignon. $$

The Marigny Brasserie 640 Frenchmen St., 945-4472, Faubourg Marigny, MarignyBrasserie.com. B, L, D daily. Chic neighborhood bistro with traditional dishes like the Wedge of Lettuce salad and innovative cocktails like the Cucumber Cosmo. $$$ Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave., 8967300, Metairie, MartinWine.com. L daily. Wine by the glass or bottle to go with daily lunch specials, towering burgers, hearty soups, salads and giant, deli-style sandwiches. $ Mat & Naddie’s 937 Leonidas St., 8619600, Uptown, MatAndNaddies.com. L MonFri, D Thu-Mon. Cozy converted house along River Road serves up creative and eclectic regionally-inspired fare. Crab cakes with cucumber slaw makes for a good appetizer and when the weather is right the romantic patio is the place to sit. $$$$

Middendorf’s Interstate 55, Exit 15, 30160 Highway 51 South, (985) 386-6666, Akers, MiddendorfsRestaurant.com. L, D Wed-Sun. Historic seafood destination along the shores of Lake Maurepas is world-famous for its thin-fried catfish filets. Open since 1934, it transitioned to its next generation of owners when Horst Pfeifer purchased it in 2007. More than a restaurant, this is a Sunday Drive tradition. $$ Mike’s On the Avenue 628 St. Charles Ave., 523-7600, CBD, MikesOnTheAvenue. com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Mike Fenelly and Vicky Bayley have re-opened one of New Orleans most inventive restaurants in Mike’s On the Avenue. Fennelly’s California-Asian cuisine may lack the novelty it enjoyed in the 1990s, but it’s every bit as good. $$$$ MiLa 817 Common St., 412-2580, French Quarter, MiLaNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Latest offering from husband-andwife chefs Slade Rushing and Allison VinesRushing focuses on the fusion of the cuisines of Miss. and La. Signature dishes include Oysters Rockefeller “Deconstructed” and New Orleans-style barbecue lobster. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2008. $$$$ Mona’s Café 504 Frenchmen St., 949-4115, Marigny; 4126 Magazine St., 894-9800, Uptown; 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 861-8174, Uptown; 3901 Banks St., 482-7743, Mid-City. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties like baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts such as sticky sweet baklava round out the menu. $ Mondo 900 Harrison Ave., 224-2633, Lakeview, MondoNewOrleans.com. Br Sun,

L Wed-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Susan Spicer’s take on world cuisine isn’t far from her home in Lakeview. Make sure to call ahead because the place has a deserved reputation for good food and good times. $$$

Morton’s, The Steakhouse The Shops at Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 566-0221, French Quarter, Mortons.com/NewOrleans. D daily. Quintessential Chicago steakhouse serves up top-quality slabs of meat along with jumbo seafood. Clubhouse atmosphere makes this chophouse a favorite of Saints players and businessmen alike. $$$$$ Mosca’s 4137 Highway 90 West, 436-9942, Avondale. D Tue-Sat. Italian institution near the Huey Long Bridge dishes out massive portions of great food family-style. Good bets are the shrimp mosca and chicken à la grande. Note: Cash Only. $$$

Mother’s 401 Poydras St., 523-9656, CBD/ Warehouse District, MothersRestaurant.net. B, L, D daily. Locals and tourists alike endure long queues and a confounding ordering system to enjoy iconic dishes such as the Ferdi poor boy and Jerry’s jambalaya. Come for a late lunch to avoid the rush. $$

Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 1001 Live Oak St., 838-0022, Bucktown; 910 W. Esplanade Ave., #A, 4633030, Kenner. L, D Mon-Sat. Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper. Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$

Muriel’s Jackson Square 801 Chartres St., 568-1885, French Quarter, Muriels.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Enjoy pecan-crusted drum and other New Orleans classics while dining in the courtyard bar or any other room in this

labyrinthine, rumored-to-be-haunted establishment. $$$$

Naked Pizza 6307 S. Miro St., 865-0244, Uptown (takeout & delivery only), NakedPizza. biz. L, D daily. Pizza place with a focus on fresh ingredients and a healthy crust. The Mediterranean pie is a good choice. $ Napoleon House 500 Chartres St., 5249752, French Quarter, NapoleonHouse.com. L, D Thu-Tue. Originally built in 1797 as a respite for Napoleon, this family-owned European-style café serves local favorites: gumbo, jambalaya, muffulettas and for sipping, a Sazerac or lemony Pimm’s Cup. $$ Nine Roses 1100 Stephen St., 366-7665, Gretna, NineRosesResturant.com. L, D SunTue, Thu-Sat. The extensive Vietnamese menu specializes in hot pots, noodles and dishes big enough for everyone to share. Great for families. $$ NOLA 534 St. Louis St., 522-6652, French Quarter, Emerils.com. L Thu-Sun, D daily. Emeril’s more affordable eatery, featuring cedar-plank-roasted redfish; private dining. $$$$$ Nuvolari’s 246 Girod St., (985) 6265619, Mandeville, Nuvolaris.com. D daily. Dark woods and soft lighting highlight this Northshore Creole Continental-Italian fusion restaurant famous for crabmeat ravioli, veal dishes, seafood specialties and delectable desserts. $$$$

One Restaurant and Lounge 8132 Hampson St., 301-9061, Uptown, OrleansGrapevine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Black seating and herbaceous sage-colored walls form a dining room where every seat is a view into the open kitchen and the chefs creating contemporary comfort food on a sea-

sonally changing menu. The bar is also known for cranking out clever cocktails. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2005. $$$$

Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, French Quarter. D daily. A sophisticated and casual wine bar serving bistro fare – seafood bouillabaisse and meats, soups, salads, a broad selection of cheeses, pâtés and a huge wine list. $$$$

Palace Café 605 Canal St., 523-1661, CBD/Warehouse District, PalaceCafe.com. L Mon-Sat, D Mon-Sun, Br Sun. Dickie Brennan-owned brasserie with French-style sidewalk seating and house-created specialties of Chef Darrin Nesbit at lunch, dinner and Jazz Brunch. Favorites here include crabmeat cheesecake, turtle soup, the Werlein salad with fried Louisiana oysters and pork ”debris” studded Palace Potato Pie. $$$$$ Parkway Bakery and Tavern 538 Hagan Ave., 482-3047, Mid-City, ParkwayBakeryAndTavernNola.com. L, D daily, closed Tue. Featured on national TV and having served poor boys to presidents, Parkway stakes a claim to some of the best sandwiches in town. Their French fry version with gravy and cheese is a classic at a great price. $

Pascal’s Manale 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, Uptown. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Vintage New Orleans neighborhood restaurant since 1913 and the place to go for the housecreation of barbecued shrimp. Its oyster bar serves icy cold, freshly shucked Louisiana oysters and the Italian specialties and steaks are also solid. $$$$

Patois 6078 Laurel St., 895-9441, Uptown, PatoisNola.com. Br Sun, L Fri, D Wed-Sat. The food is French in technique, with influ-

ences from across the Mediterranean as well as the American South, all filtered through the talent of Chef Aaron Burgau (New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Chef 2009). Reservations recommended. $$$

Paul’s Café 100 Pine St., (985) 386-9581, Ponchatoula, PaulsCafe.net. B, L daily. Best known for its strawberry daiquiris, Paul’s also cooks up egg breakfasts and lunches including all manner of sandwiches and poor boys. $ The Pelican Club 312 Exchange Place, 523-1504, French Quarter, PelicanClub.com. D daily. Tucked into a French Quarter alley, Pelican Club serves an eclectic mix of hip food, from the seafood “martini” to clay pot barbecued shrimp and a trio of duck. Three dining rooms available. $$$$$

PJ’s Coffee Multiple locations throughout Greater New Orleans, PJsCoffee.com. The city’s first iced-coffee spot that pioneered the coffee house experience in New Orleans and introduced us all to velvet ices, drinkable granitas and locally made Ronald Reginald vanilla. A wide assortment of pastries and bagels are offered as well as juices and fresh ground or whole bean coffees. $ Port of Call 838 Esplanade Ave., 523-0120, French Quarter, PortOfCallNola.com. L, D daily. It’s all about the big, meaty burgers and giant baked potatoes in this popular bar/restaurant – unless you’re cocktailing only, then it’s all about the Monsoons. $$

Praline Connection 542 Frenchmen St., 943-3934, Faubourg Marigny, PralineConnection.com. L, D daily. Downhome dishes of smothered pork chops, greens, beans and cornbread are on the menu at this homey Creole soul restaurant. $$

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T HE M EN U Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill 115 Bourbon St., 598-1200, French Quarter, RedFishGrill.com. L, D daily. Chef Austin Kirzner cooks up a broad menu peppered with Big Easy favorites like BBQ oysters, blackened redfish and double chocolate bread pudding. $$$$$ Ralph’s On The Park 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000, Mid-City, RalphsOnThePark.com. Br Sun, L Wed-Fri, D daily. A modern interior, a view of City Park’s moss-draped oaks and contemporary Creole dishes such as City Park salad, turtle soup and BBQ Gulf shrimp. The bar gets special notice for cocktails. $$$$ The Red Maple 1036 Lafayette St., 3670935, Gretna, TheRedMaple.com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sat. This West Bank institution since 1963 is known for its seafood, steaks, wine list and some of the best bread pudding around. $$$$

Reginelli’s Pizzeria 741 State St., 8991414, Uptown; 3244 Magazine St., 895-7272, Uptown; 5608 Citrus Blvd., 818-0111, Harahan; 817 W. Esplanade Ave., 7126868, Kenner; 874 Harrison Ave, 488-0133, Lakeview; Reginellis.com. L, D daily. Pizzas, pastas, salads, fat calzones and lofty focaccia sandwiches are on tap at locations all over town. $$

Arnaud’s Remoulade 309 Bourbon St., 523-0377, French Quarter, Remoulade.com. L, D daily. Granite-topped tables and an antique mahogany bar are home to the eclectic menu of Famous Shrimp Arnaud, red beans and rice and poor boys as well as specialty burgers, grilled all-beef hot dogs and thin-crust pizza. $$ René Bistrot 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 613-2350, CBD/Warehouse District, LaCoteBrasserie.com. B, L, D daily. Fresh local seafood, international ingredients and a contemporary atmosphere fill the room at this hotel restaurant near the Convention Center. $$$

Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas St., 299-9777, CBD/Warehouse District, RestaurantAugust.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily. James Beard Award-winning chef (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007) John Besh’s menu is based on classical techniques of Louisiana cuisine and produce with a splash of Euro flavor set in a historic carriage warehouse. $$$$$

R’Evolution 777 Bienville St., 553-2277, French Quarter, RevolutionNola.com. L, D Mon-Fri, Br, D Sun, open late Fri-Sat. R’evolution is the partnership between chefs John Folse and Rick Tramonto. Located in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, it’s an opulent place that combines the local flavors of chef Folse with the more cosmopolitan influence of chef Tramonto. Chef de cuisine Chris Lusk and executive sous chef Erik Veney are in charge of day-to-day operations, which include house-made charcuterie, pastries, pastas and more. $$$$$

Ristorante Da Piero 401 Williams Blvd., Kenner, RistoranteDaPiero.com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sat, 469-8585. Homemade pastas and an emphasis on Northern Italian cuisine make this cozy spot in Kenner’s Rivertown a romantic destination. $ Rib Room Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, 621 St. Louis St., 529-7046, French Quarter, OmniHotels.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun. Old World elegance, high ceilings and views of

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DINING GUIDE Royal Street, house classic cocktails and Anthony Spizale’s broad menu of prime rib, stunning seafood and on weekends, a Champagne Brunch. $$$

Riccobono’s Panola Street Café 7801 Panola St., 314-1810, Garden District. B, L daily. This breakfast spot at the corner of Burdette and Panola streets has been waking up bleary college students for years. The omelets are good, as are the Belgian waffles. Offers daily specials as well. $

Rio Mar 800 S. Peters St., 525-3474, CBD/Warehouse District, RioMarSeafood. com. L Mon-Fri. D Mon-Sat. Seafood-centric Warehouse District destination focuses on Latin American and Spanish cuisines. Try the bacalaitos and the escabeche. The tapas lunch is a great way to try a little of everything. Save room for the Tres Leches, a favorite dessert. New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2006. $$$$

Ristorante Filippo 1917 Ridgelake Drive, 835-4008, Metairie. L Mon-Fri, D Tue-Sat. Creole-Italian destination serves up southern Italian specialties bathed in red sauces and cheese alongside New Orleans classics like pan-fried gulf fish and plump shellfish. $$$ River 127 Westin New Orleans Canal Place, 100 Rue Iberville, 566-7006, French Quarter. B, L, D daily. Continental cuisine with Louisiana flare in a dining room that overlooks the Mississippi River and French Quarter. $$$$

Rivershack Tavern 3449 River Road, 8344938, Jefferson, TheRivershackTavern.com. L, D daily. Home of the Tacky Ashtray, this popular bar alongside the Mississippi levee offers surprisingly wide-ranging menu featuring seafood, poor boys and deli-style sandwiches along with live music. Open late. $

Rock-N-Sake 823 Fulton St., 581-7253, CBD/Warehouse District, RockNSake.com. L Fri, D Tue-Sun. Enjoy fresh sushi along with contemporary takes on Japanese favorites in this club-like setting in the Warehouse District. Open until midnight on Fri. and Sat., this makes for a unique late-night destination. $$$

Root 200 Julia St., 252-9480, CBD, RootNola. com. L Mon-Fri, D Sun-Thur, open late Fri-Sat. Chef Philip Lopez opened Root in November 2011 and has garnered a loyal following for his modernist, eclectic cuisine. Try the Korean fried chicken wings and the Cohiba-smoked scallops crusted with chorizo. $$$$ Royal Blend Coffee and Tea House 621 Royal St., 523-2716, French Quarter; 204 Metairie Road, 835-7779, Metairie; RoyalBlendCoffee.com. B, L daily. Known for their frozen Café Glace and a wide selection of coffees and teas, as well as pastries, daily specials and hearty breakfasts. $

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 3633 Veterans Blvd., 888-3600, Metairie. L Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun; 228 Poydras St. in Harrah’s Hotel, 587-7099, L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun; RuthsChris. com. Filet Mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$

Sake Café 2830 Magazine St., 894-0033, Uptown, SakeCafeUptown.com. L, D daily. Creative and traditional Japanese food in an ultramodern décor. Sushi and sashimi boats, wild rolls filled with the usual and not-so-

usual suspects and a nice bar with a number of sakes from which to choose. $$$

Sammy’s Po-Boys and Catering 901 Veterans Blvd., 835-0916, Metairie, SammysPoBoys.com. L Mon-Sat, D Sun. Bucktown transplant offers a seafood-centric menu rounded out with wraps, kid meals, and catering options all at a reasonable price. $

Satsuma Café 3218 Dauphine St., 3045962, Bywater; 7901 Maple St., 309-5557, Uptown; SatsumaCafe.com. B, L daily (until 7 p.m.). Two locations bring healthy, inspired breakfast and lunch fare, along with freshsqueezed juices, to the University Section of Uptown. $ Semolina 4436 Veterans Blvd., Suite 37, Metairie, 454-7930, Semolina.com. L, D daily. This casual, contemporary pasta restaurant takes a bold approach to cooking Italian food, emphasizing flavors, texture and color; many of the dishes feature a signature Louisiana twist, such as the Muffuletta Pasta and Pasta Jambalaya. Popular entrees include Grilled Chicken Alfredo, Chicken Marsala and Veal Parmesan. $$

Serendipity 3700 Orleans Ave. 407-0818, Mid-City, SerendipityNola.com. D nightly. Chef Chris DeBarr brings his eclectic and far-ranging style of cuisine and classicallyinspired cocktails to an outpost in American Can. A late-night option as well. $$

Slice 1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-7437, Uptown; 5538 Magazine St., 897-4800; SlicePizzeria.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Right on the Avenue, order up slices or whole pizza pies done in several styles (thin- and thickcrust) as well as pastas, seafood, paninis and salads. $

Slim Goodies Diner 3322 Magazine St., 891-EGGS (3447). B, L daily. This diner offers up an exhaustive menu heavily influenced by local cuisine. Try the Creole Slammer, a breakfast platter rounded out with Crawfish Étouffée. The laid-back vibe is best enjoyed on the patio out back. $ SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, French Quarter, SoBouNola.com. B, L, D daily. There is something for everyone at this “Modern Creole Saloon,” the latest offering from the Commander’s Restaurant Family. Decidedly unstuffy with an emphasis on craft cocktails and wines by the glass, diners will find everything from $1 pork cracklins’ to an extravagant foie gras burger on the accomplished yet eclectic menus. $$ Snug Harbor 626 Frenchman St., 949-0696, Faubourg Marigny, SnugJazz.com. D daily. The city’s premier jazz club serves cocktails and a dining menu loaded with steaks, seafood and meaty burgers served with loaded baked potatoes. $$$$

Stein’s Market and Deli 2207 Magazine St., 527-0771, Uptown, SteinsDeli.net. B, L, D Tue-Sun. New York meets New Orleans. The Reuben and Rachel sandwiches are the real deal and the half-sours and pickled tomatoes complete the deli experience. $

Stella! 1032 Chartres St., 587-0091, French Quarter, RestaurantStella.com. D daily. Global cuisine with a Louisiana blush by native son chef Scott Boswell. Dishes are always inventive and flavorful from appetizer to dessert. The wine list is bold and the service “stellar.” Boswell was New Orleans Magazine’s 2005 Chef of the Year. $$$$$ Sun Ray Grill 619 Pink St., 837-0055, Old

Metairie; 1051 Annunciation St., 566-0021, CBD/Warehouse District; 2600 Belle Chasse Highway, 391-0053, Gretna; 2424 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 305-4704; SunRayGrill. com. L, D Mon-Sun. This local chain offers a globally influenced menu with burgers, steaks, sesame crusted tuna, sandwiches and salads. $$

Surrey’s Café and Juice Bar 1418 Magazine St., 524-3828, Coliseum Square; 4807 Magazine St., 895-5757, Uptown; SurreysCafeAndJuiceBar.com. B, L daily. Laid-back café focuses on breakfast and brunch dishes to accompany fresh-squeezed juice offerings. Health-food lovers will like it here, along with fans of favorites such as peanut butter and banana pancakes. Note: Cash only. $$ Tan Dinh 1705 Lafayette St., 361-8008, Gretna. B, L, D Wed-Mon. Roasted quail and the beef pho rule at this Vietnamese outpost. $$

Theo’s Pizza 4218 Magazine St., 894-8554, Uptown; 4024 Canal, 302-1133, Mid-City; TheosPizza.com. L, D daily. The thin, crackercrisp crust pizzas are complemented by the broad assortment of toppings which include a lot of local ingredients. Cheap prices make this an economical choice along upscale Magazine Street and a delicious choice in Mid-City. $$ Three Muses 536 Frenchmen St., 298-8746, Marigny, TheThreeMuses.com. D Sun-Mon, Wed, Fri-Sat. Three Muses is a bar-restaurant serving the eclectic cuisine of chef Daniel Esses. The menu changes, but expect Esses’ take on Italian, Spanish, North African and Korean cooking. Local bands provide music on a regular basis. $ Tommy’s Cuisine 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 581-1103, CBD/Warehouse, TommysNewOrleans.com. D daily. Classic Creole-Italian cuisine is the name of the game at this upscale eatery in the Warehouse District. Appetizers include the namesake Oysters Tommy, baked in the shell with Romano cheese, pancetta and roasted red pepper. $$$$$ Tony Angello’s 6262 Fleur de Lis Drive, 488-0888. Lakeview. D, Tue-Sat. Creole-Italian favorite serves up fare in the completely restored Lakeview location. Ask Tony to “Feed Me” if you want a real multi-course dining experience. $$$$ Tout de Suite Cafe 347 Verret St., 3622264, Algiers. B, L, D daily. Neighborhood coffeehouse/café in historic Algiers Point offers a light menu of soups, salads and sandwiches for a quick meal or carryout. $$

Tracey’s Irish Restaurant & Bar 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, TraeysNola.com, Uptown. L, D daily. A neighborhood bar with one of the best messy roast beef poor boys in town. The gumbo, cheeseburger poor boy and other sandwiches are also winners. Grab a local Abita beer to wash it all down. Also a great location to watch “the game.” $ Trey Yuen 600 N. Causeway Blvd., (985) 626-4476, Mandeville, TreyYuen.com. L Tue-Fri & Sun, D Tue-Sun. Chinese cuisine meets with local seafood in dishes like their Szechuan Spicy Alligator and Tong Cho Crawfish; private rooms available. $$

Tujague’s 823 Decatur St., 525-8676, French Quarter, TujaguesRestaurant.com. D daily. For more than 150 years this landmark

restaurant has been offering Creole cuisine. Favorites include a nightly six-course table d’hôté menu featuring a unique Beef Brisket with Creole Sauce. New Orleans Magazine’s Honor Roll honoree 2008. $$$$$

Wolfe’s in the Warehouse 859

Upperline 1413 Upperline St., 891-9822,

Convention Center Blvd., 613-2882, CBD/ Warehouse District. B, L, D daily. Chef Tom Wolfe brings his refined cuisine to the booming Fulton Street corridor. His Smoked Kobe Short Ribs are a good choice. $$$

Uptown, Upperline.com. D Wed-Sun. Consummate hostess JoAnn Clevenger and talented Chef Nathan Winowich make for a winning combination at this nationally heralded Uptown favorite. The oft-copied Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp Remoulade originated here. $$$$

Ye Olde College Inn 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-3683, Uptown, CollegeInn1933. com. D Tue-Sat. The Carrollton institution moved next door into brand-new digs but serves up the same classic fare, albeit with a few new upscale dishes peppering the menu. $$$

Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-

Yuki Izakaya 525 Frenchmen St., 9431122, Marignuy. D Tue-Sun. Authentic Japanese Izakaya serves small plates to late-night crowds at this unique destination on Frenchmen. Try the Hokke Fish or the Agedashi Tofu. An excellent sake menu rounds out the appeal, as does the sexy, clublike ambiance. $

2007, Metairie. D daily. Innovative establishment offers fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetarian dishes in a chic environment. Daily chef specials showcase unique ingredients and make this place a popular destination for dates as well as groups of friends. $$

Venezia 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 488-7991, Mid-City. L Wed-Fri & Sun, D Wed-Sun. Casual neighborhood Italian destination known for its thin-crust pizzas. Good lunch specials make this a popular choice as well. $$

Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 4411 Chastant St., 885-2984, Metairie, L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sat; 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, Uptown. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sun; VicentsItalianCuisine. com. Snug Italian boîte packs them in yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$ Wolfe’s 1041 Dumaine St., 593-9535, French Quarter. L Fri, D Tue-Sat. Chef Tom Wolfe has reinvented the former Peristyle, opening up the doors for full expression of his inventive, contemporary New Orleans cuisine. The menu changes seasonally. Complimentary valet. $$$

Zea’s Rotisserie and Bar 1525 St. Charles Ave., Lower Garden District, 5208100; 1655 Hickory Ave, Harahan, 738-0799; 4450 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 780-9090; 1325 West Esplanade, Kenner, 468-7733; 1121 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 361-8293; 110 Lake Drive, Covington, (985) 327-0520, ZeaRestaurants.com. L, D daily. This popular restaurant serves a variety of grilled items as well as appetizers, salads, side dishes, seafood, pasta and other entrées, drawing from a wide range of worldly influences. Zea’s also offers catering services. $$$

Zoë Restaurant W New Orleans Hotel, 333 Poydras St., 2nd Floor, 207-5018, ZoeNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, L Mon-Sat. Completely redone in both décor and cuisine, each restaurant features a separate menu by executive chef Chris Brown. $$$

SPECIALTY FOODS Antoine’s Annex 513 Royal St., 525-8045, French Quarter, Antoines.com/AntoinesAnnex. Around the corner from the oldest continuously operated restaurant in the country, Antoine’s Annex serves French pastries, including individual baked Alaskas, ice cream and gelato, as well as panini, salads and coffee. They also deliver.

Bee Sweet Cupcakes 5706 Magazine St., 891-8333, Uptown, BeeSweetCupcakes.net. Open Mon-Sat. Tiny shop sells its namesake treats with a New Orleans twist. Try the Bananas Foster or the Pralines and Cream flavors. Daily specials are offered, as well as catering orders for weddings and parties.

Bittersweet Confections 725 Magazine St., 523-2626, Warehouse District, BittersweetConfections.com. Freshly baked cookies, cupcakes and specialty cakes. Serving handmade chocolate truffles, fudge, caramels, gelato, ice coffee, chocolate-dipped strawberries and fresh squeezed lemonade. Children’s birthday parties, chocolate tasting parties, custom chocolates and truffle party bar. Call for details.

Blue Dot Donuts 4301 Canal St., 2184866, Mid-City, BlueDotDonuts.com. B, L daily. Heard the one about the cops that opened a donut shop? This is no joke. The Bacon Maple Long John gets all the press, but returning customers are happy with the classics as well as twists like peanut butter and jelly.

2188, Warehouse District, CalcasieuRooms. com. Located in the second floor of a renovated warehouse, above Cochon and Cochon Butcher, is a place to host gatherings both large and small. Catering menus feature modern Louisiana cooking and the Cajun cuisine for which chef Donald Link is justifiably famous.

Gambino’s Bakery Multiple locations. 8857500, Gambinos.com. This local bakery chain has become part of the fabric of New Orleans. Famous for its Doberge cakes, King Cakes, red velvet cakes, icing-enrobed petite fours, Italian cookies and pastries. Nationwide shipping is available.

Magic Seasonings Mail Order (800) 457- 2857. Offers Chef Paul Prudhomme’s famous cookbooks, smoked meats, videos, seasonings and more. Online shopping available at shop.ChefPaul.com.

St. James Cheese Company 5004 Prytania St., 899-4737, Uptown, StJamesCheese.com. Specialty shop offers a selection of fine cheeses, wines, beers and related accouterments. Look for wine and cheese specials every Friday.

Sucré 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311; 3301 Veterans Blvd., 834-2277; ShopSucre. com. Desserts nightly. Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this new dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts. Catering available.

Blue Frog Chocolates 5707 Magazine St., 269-5707, Uptown, BlueFrogChocolate. com. French and Belgian chocolate truffles and Italian candy flowers make this boutique a great place for gifts.

Calcasieu 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 588-

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BEST BARS Our Annual Guide – This Year, The Hotels Where just about nobody knows your name

“As she situated herself on the stool, staring into the mirror that covered the entire back bar, she could see almost the entire room behind her. Small meetings between three and four persons were taking place. Some punctuated by smiles and laughter. Others appeared to be of a decidedly more serious nature. All accompanied by liquids in diverse shades contained within assorted glassware of various shapes. She saw herself in the reflection. Not bad-looking considering the stressful day she had endured, lugging her briefcase and sample case from office to office, seeking success in the minds of strangers. She thought about going upstairs to her rented-for-the-night room, slipping out of the business suit and heels, then into a warm soothing bath. But here, in the hotel bar, she could decompress in another way, enjoying at a distance the company of people she had never seen before and likely would not encounter again. Safety in anonymity. And then, the young man approached.”

Come, Let Us Flee by Thomas Bexar, Ranger Press, 2012

Photographed by Sara Essex Bradley

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B Y T I M M C N A LL Y

All great cities have hotel bars of note.

Some hotels operate their adult-beverage area primarily as an accommodation to guests. Others are all-in to attract thirsty visitors and residents alike, providing interesting surroundings and backdrops for gatherings of every type. On the hotel bar scale of priority, comfortable socialization comes first. Recreation is next, followed by business purposes, gathering spots for meetings that eventually relocate to another venue, and finally just for being alone, enjoying a beverage, without being truly alone. Hotel bars in New Orleans are really not that different from hotel bars in other cities – except, of course, that they’re in New Orleans where the stakes are higher. If the hotel commits to operating a bar successfully, the competition right outside the hotel’s door has to be considered. How do you make those potential patrons on the outside step inside when the choices in the neighborhood are unlimited and exciting? Some hotels have become quite adept at being in the center of the action, and they’ve invested heavily in becoming a “people magnet” for locals and visitors alike. Other hotels are content to quietly serve paying room guests in comfortable, if not corporate, surroundings. For our purposes, we’ve divided hotel bars into several categories, and have focused on those hotel bars in the French Quarter and Central Business District, for the most part. That is where the action is on this topic in our community.

A B I G ID E A

The Carousel Bar & Lounge Hotel Monteleone 214 Royal St., 523-3341, HotelMonteleone.com/CarouselBar

A one-quarter horsepower motor rotates the main bar one revolution every 15 minutes, and that’s the way it’s been since 1949. It’s been the source of literary inspiration: Ernest Hemingway loved the place, as did Truman Capote (whose mother lived in the hotel during her pregnancy), Tennessee Williams, William

Faulkner and scores of New Orleanians and visitors alike. Following an extensive renovation in 2011, the amusement park-themed carousel today feels fresh and renewed, still serving the iconic classic house drink, the Vieux Carré cocktail, and the best Pisco Sour in town. Live music can be heard almost every evening.

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A Big Idea

Davenport Lounge The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 921 Canal St., 524-1331, RitzCarlton.com/ en/Properties/NewOrleans/Dining/ DavenportLounge

Resident trumpeter par excellence Jeremy Davenport is in full swing every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and this guy puts on quite a show. Even when he isn’t performing, the place is a grand oasis for adult bev-

erages and snacks. Located on the third floor of a massive Canal Street structure, site of the beloved but now-gone Maison Blanche department store, the lounge’s appointments are top-notch, with plush seating areas divided into intimate conversation centers. The long bar running the length of the room just begs for attention and inclusion in the affairs of patrons.

Swizzle Stick Bar Loews Hotel, 300 Poydras St., 595-3305, CafeAdelaide.com

From the people who bring you Commander’s Palace, this bar can do it all, and it does it as well as anyone in town. Nothing about the décor or the wares offered are so outof-the-ordinary that you’re surprised or shocked, but the drinks are sturdy and creative, and the problem is deciding which one to have. The service is New Orleans-friendly and the atmosphere is comfortable, not glitzy.

Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon St., 586-0300, Sonesta.com/ RoyalNewOrleans

Grammy Award-winner, New Orleans’ own Irvin Mayfield, is often in residence here, playing jazz in a way expected by many visitors that’s becoming harder and harder to find. Importantly, cocktails are done properly, and many new concoctions are crafted by a talented bar staff including one of New Orleans Magazine’s past Mixologist of the Year winners, Tiffany Soles.

Vitascope Hall

HI G H C O N C E P T

Polo Club Lounge The Windsor Court Hotel 300 Gravier St., 523-6000, WindsorCourtHotel.com/polo-club-lounge

Originally conceived and built to provide overnight accommodations to the crowds attending the 1984 New Orleans World’s Fair, the Windsor Court’s entire theme was to honor the creator’s, James Coleman Jr.’s, devotion to Great Britain. The masculine, elegant Polo Lounge is an example of attention to British upper-class style while featuring excellently crafted cocktails and fine wines by the glass.

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Hyatt Regency Hotel, 601 Loyola Ave., 613-3740 NewOrleans.hyatt.com/hyatt/ hotels-neworleans/entertainment

Named in honor of the world’s first for-profit indoor motion picture theater, which was located on Canal Street in 1896, Vitascope Hall continues that local tradition of good music, great food, something for the eyes to enjoy wherever you look and the latest technology. Smartphone applications are available for download, which will allow you to order food, request a particular song, find out game scores and just keep up with all the activity in this establishment. Small seating areas aid in the gathering of friends, but even then there’s a lot of energy, and big-screen televisions, all around.

HI G H C O N C E P T

Bellocq The Hotel Modern 300 Gravier St., 523-6000, 936 St. Charles Ave., 962-0900, TheHotelModern.com/bellocq

It is worth the hunt to find it; tucked behind the hotel alongside Lee Circle, Bellocq is a quiet, creative project designed from the ground up to demonstrate a new, organic direction in cocktail mixology. The same folks who opened Cure on Freret Street are the brains and brawn behind this operation, which specializes in modern interpretations of preProhibition era cocktails. The place is comfortable, and yet as mysterious, as the Storyville bordello photographer for which it was named.

HIGH CONCEPT The Sazerac Bar The Roosevelt Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 648-1200, TheRooseveltNewOrleans.com/dining/the-sazerac-bar.html

The Sazerac Bar is not the originating emporium of the Sazerac cocktail nor of the Ramos Gin Fizz, but it is the true keeper of the flame for these historic New Orleans libations. Legends have been made in the Sazerac. If these walls – covered by Paul Niñas

murals – could talk … You can almost envision Governor Huey P. Long, Louisiana’s legendary Kingfish, standing at the African walnut bar. Dating to the turn of the 1800s into the 1900s, this room has had its share of famous visitors, including Louis Armstrong, Cab Callaway, Ray Charles, Jack Benny and Bob Hope, along with presidents and foreign leaders. As hotel bars go, they don’t come with more history than this place. The Storming of the Sazerac event is staged annually to commemorate the day, Sept. 26, 1949, when women demanded to be let in and served every day – not just on Mardi Gras Day, as was the tradition.

Patrick’s Bar Vin Hotel Mazarin (formerly The St. Louis Hotel), 730 Bienville St., 200-3180, PatricksBarVin.com

Overlooking a covered courtyard and a large fountain, Bar Vin is the labor of love from a true New Orleans character, Belgian native Patrick Van Hoorebeck. This

bar is the home of the Mardi Gras organization, Krewe of Cork, and videos on televisions replay scenes of every year’s activities and festivities. It offers an excellent wine selection, local and Belgian beers and a smattering of food, along with cocktails.

Whiskey Blue W Hotel, 333 Poydras St., 207-5016, GerberBars.com/ whiskey-blue-new-orleans

Once your eyes acclimate to the deeply hued blue-back bar and the amber-tinted main bar, then the navigation into the finer points of the cocktail menu gets easier. It is all about the atmosphere and the making of a good drink. It is an ideal meeting spot located along the main business thoroughfare in New Orleans.

Patrick Van Hoorebeck 73

something from the menu. When you finish that, chances are your next question will be, “What else should I try?” It is all superb.

Bar R’evolution Royal Sonesta Hotel, 777 Bienville St., 553-2277, RevolutionNola.com

It’s a bar within a restaurant within a hotel – but what a location and what an amazing combination. The restaurant is the brainchild of John Folse, a Louisiana culinary

legend, and Rick Tramonto, who came to New Orleans from Chicago after successfully establishing his “chops” with an incredibly successful operation. R’evolution, the restaurant, is devoted to an exploration of all the cultures that has come to be known as Louisiana Cuisine. That theme carries over into the bar where adventuresome noshing and cocktailing are encouraged, side-by-side.

M E E T IN G & T A L K IN G

Loa International House Hotel 221 Camp St., 553-9550, InHotel.com/bar.html

M E E T IN G & T A L K IN G

In voodoo terms, “loa” means benevolent spirits. You will feel their presence here. This gentle venue specializes in cocktail creations rooted in fresh herbs, fruits, spices and vegetation. Alan Walter, the bar manager, is a former New Orleans Magazine Mixologist of the Year. His calm and creative hand is present throughout the cocktail menu.

SoBou W New Orleans – French Quarter 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, SoBouNola.com

What are those beer taps doing in the middle of tables? And what about that wall of wine dispensers? Self-service seems to be a theme, but then there’s also an amazing array of complicated but well-balanced drinks deftly produced by a seasoned bar team. Comfortable, welcoming, with a tell-us-what-you-want attitude among all the staff, it’s located in an area of the French Quarter that had no specific name until SoBou came along: South of Bourbon. Management hopes the name catches on. That decision still hangs out there.

where bourbon is stored in small barrels and selections are dispensed to your cocktail or flask. Other local and regional spirits, like vodka, rums and absinthe, are also featured and a nice selection of bar snacks makes for the perfect accompaniment.

Iris Bienville House, 320 Decatur St., 529-2345, IrisNewOrleans.com

MEETING & TALKing Batch Bar Hyatt Regency French Quarter, 800 Iberville St., 586-0800, NewOrleans.hyatt.com/hyatt/ hotels-neworleans/entertainment

An American artisan whiskey bar in the French Quarter,

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There isn’t much space at the bar, but lack of quantity doesn’t at all mean there’s any lack of excellence. The Iris bar is absolutely about top quality. The magic that happens in owner and chef Ian Schnoebelen’s kitchen translates to the bar. Cocktails are creative and fresh. Do not limit yourself to your usual; choose

expansive front veranda next to oak-lined St. Charles Avenue, a heavy dose of the Old South in a city that never really was – except in this Garden District neighborhood.

D O N ’ T T E LL A S O UL

Rib Room Bar

Touché Lounge

Royal Orleans Hotel

621 St. Louis St., 529-7046, RibRoomNewOrleans.com

621 St. Louis St., 529-5333

The Rib Room has been, in the not-so-distant past, a meeting place for local and state politicians as well as ne’er-do-wells – often the same thing. The bar sits both in the gallery area of the Royal Orleans Hotel, with great views onto St. Louis and Royal streets, but also extends into the restaurant. Wash-bucket martinis are signature drinks, a case of quantity overwhelming good sense. The Touché Lounge is entered from Royal Street, not the hotel, and is a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It is quite smoky but the in-crowd never seems to mind.

The Victorian Lounge The Columns Hotel, 3811 St. Charles Ave., 899-9308, TheColumns.com/Lounge.html

Most locals will be surprised to learn that the bar in The Columns Hotel actually has a name. Local shorthand is, “The Columns,” and that says it all. Quite a popular place to sit and watch the world go by from the hotel’s

DON’T TELL A SOUL The Green Bar Westin Canal Place, 100 Iberville St., 553-5140, WestinNewOrleansCanalPlace.com/ Green-Bar

Casually quiet, and quite out of the way on the 11th floor of the hotel, the Green Bar makes no fuss. But if you’re anxious to enjoy a nice beverage with little fear of being seen by anyone you know, this is a good spot to duck into.

May Baily’s Place Dauphine Orleans Hotel, 415 Dauphine St., 586-1800, DauphineNewOrleans.com/nightlife

The bordello-like feel of the place isn’t the result of some interior designer bereft of ideas. It is rather historically accurate to this spot, which was a “house of adult enter-

tainment” on the fringe of Storyville, where prostitution was legal and jazz was born. The cottage was built in 1821 and today reproductions of famous E.J. Bellocq photographs depicting ladies of the night at work and play grace the walls. A red light still burns in the courtyard. Today, it’s not a call to action.

The Terrace Lounge Le Richelieu Hotel, 1234 Chartres St., 529-2492, LeRichelieuHotel. com/amenities.html

This small, intimate lounge provides a water view. OK, so it’s the hotel’s pool, but still … Here is the place that you’re certain you’ve been in before, and maybe so. But it’s an almost-secret place tucked way into the back of the French Quarter within an 86-room hotel. You will never be found here, if you don’t want to be.

The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St., 586-0972, TheBombayClub.com

Walking down the driveway of the Prince Conti Hotel, just about the last thing you expect behind the door at the end of the drive is a sexy, elegantly woodpaneled club famous for serving the best martinis in New Orleans. Oh, and there’s an intimate courtyard and a fine-dining restaurant. This place is full of unexpected pleasures. If you like jazz, that’s a regular staple here. The full bar is capable of serving incredible mixed drinks. If you want privacy while dining, there are hidden tables behind heavy curtains. It is all worth your while.

Along the Lines of What You Would Normally Expect And finally there are hotel bars that are comfortable, certainly capable of making a good drink, and excellent meeting places when out-of-town guests are in New Orleans.

The Spirits Bar Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 561-0500, NewOrleansRiversideHotel.com/dining/spirits.cfm

The Pelican Bar Sheraton Hotel, 500 Canal St., 525-2500, SheratonNewOrleans.com/pelican-bar

The Bar in René’s Bistrot The Renaissance Arts Hotel, 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 613-2330

55 Fahrenheit The Marriott Hotel, 555 Canal St., 581-1000

Burgundy Bar The Saint Hotel, 931 Canal St., 522-5400, TheSaintHotelNewOrleans.com/burgundy-bar.html

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We heard that there was some sort of other election in 2012, but the one that was most far-ranging in decision-making was when our readers were asked to pick the Tops of the Town. A self-addressed postage-paid ballot was published in our

Our Readers’ Picks in a Range of Categories

October 2012 issue. The ballot also appeared on our website. More than 150 were returned. Winners listed had to receive a certain cluster of votes based on the overall number of votes cast. In categories where the votes were too dispersed to show a clear choice the category was eliminated. Second and third places were included whenever the vote totals fell within the cluster. Wherever there seemed to be an overt case of ballot stuffing, the votes were eliminated. (Fortunately, there was not much of that.) The end product is our annual list of readers’ picks. Some win every year; some are new to the list. All reflect what’s on the mind of our readers. To us they are all Tops of the Town. 76

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B i l l Ha b e r / A P IM A GES P HOTOGR A P H

NEW ORLEANIAN OF THE YEAR:

TOM BENSON

S o m e s ay h e ’ s a f o x . O t h e r s s ay h e ’ s a s a i n t .

He has certainly created a lot of buzz. And, no doubt, he’s a towering figure. Tom Benson is all of those things. Best known as the owner of the Saints, Benson doubled his professional holdings in 2012 by buying the NBA’s Hornets (and most likely saving the franchise for the city). Both the Saints and the Hornets now play within myneworleans.com

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the shadow of the renamed Benson Tower and, if you missed these stories, you can hear about them on WVUE-TV, aka FOX 8, which Benson also owns. No local businessperson has ever amassed such a collection of high-profile properties as Benson has. To buy is one thing, to do something worthy with them is another, and here, too, Benson’s organization has had a solid reputation for management. Not all was rosy for Benson in 2012. Allegations of a bounty scandal rocked the Saints organization. Severe sanctions were issued though sports commissioners don’t have the same burden of proof that the court system mandates. The debate continues. No one blamed Benson though, and in February Benson and NFL commissioner Rodger Goodell will at some point stand side by side as New Orleans hosts Super Bowl XLVII, a tourism plum that wouldn’t be possible were it not for the Saints franchise. Less visible but even more saintly is the elegant cancer recovery center that Benson and his wife Gale funded at the Ochsner hospital main campus. (We have known people who have used its services and who are high in its praise.) Tom Benson is a local guy who worked his way to the top and along the way provided further proof that genius can rise from the back streets of New Orleans. This city made Tom Benson, and, in many ways, he’s remaking the city. – Errol Laborde

EDITOR’S PICKS

ALL THE NEWS THAT’S FIT TO PRINT (Except on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday)

AWARD While the Newhouse family of New Jersey gets to read the daily New York Times, they have decided that we, and literate folks in other cities where they own newspapers, do not need a daily paper. The strategy is to dazzle us with digital media while sacrificing the unique hold that a daily newspaper has in its market. Meanwhile there are many other digital dazzlers online, so the Newhouses have taken their product from being a community leader to another website among many. We can read all about it in The New York Times.

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FAVORITE POLITICIAN:

MITCH LANDRIEU

Ou r r e ad e r s r e a l l y l i k e May o r M i t c h La n d r i e u a n d n e w l y

elected councilmember-at-large Stacy Head. Both lead their respective categories by large numbers. Curiously, they don’t always seem to like each other so much. There has been noticeable tension between the mayor and Head – a rising star in local politics. Part of the tension could be Head’s penchant for asking tough, sometimes exasperating questions. The good news, though, is that Landrieu and his staff usually have the answers – a reversal from Head’s early days on the council when questions were aimed at the helpless administration of Ray Nagin. Some people tsk-tsk tension among elected officials, but that’s the way C h e r y l G e r b e r P h o t o g r ap h s

PEOPLE

2) Whole Foods Market

New Orleanian of the Year 1) Tom Benson 2) Drew Brees

Favorite Gym 1) Elmwood Fitness Center 2) Anytime Fitness

New Orleanian I Admire Most (male) 1) Drew Brees 2) Tom Benson

Favorite Day Spa 1) Belladonna Day Spa 2) H2O Salon & Spa

New Orleanian I admire most (female) 1) Stacy Head 2) Sally-Ann Roberts Favorite Politician 1) Mitch Landrieu 2) Bobby Jindal Favorite New Orleans Musician (living in the city) 1) Kermit Ruffins 2) Dr. John Favorite New Orleans Musician (living outside the city) 1) Harry Connick Jr. Favorite Local Band 1) Rebirth Brass Band Favorite Local New Orleans Actor/Actress 1) Becky Allen 2) Bryan Batt Favorite Saints Player 1) Drew Brees Favorite Hornets Player 1) Anthony Davis Favorite Local TV News Anchor 1) Angela Hill

STACY HEAD democracy works and far better than if everyone marched to the same tune. What is important is that Landrieu and Head are two of the brightest minds in local politics. There integrity is unchallenged; their intelligence is unquestioned. As councilmember-at-large, Head rotates annually as council president with her co-at-large member, and in that capacity fills in for the mayor when needed. Landrieu will be beginning the last full year of his first term in 2013, but seems like a lock for reelection. Barring some sort of political bounce, Landrieu and Head seem likely to be overseeing City Hall for at least the next five years. Tension is not always bad, but maybe every so often there can be a hug. – E . L .

Favorite Antiques Store 1) M.S. Rau Antiques Favorite Florist 1) Villere’s Florist Favorite Lawn/ Garden Supply 1) Perino’s Garden Center 2) Harold’s Indoor Outdoor Plants Favorite Movie Theater 1) Prytania Theatre 2) AMC Elmwood Palace 20 Favorite Place to Hear Live Music 1) House of Blues New Orleans 2) Tipitina’s Favorite Happy Hour 1) Columns Hotel Favorite Jazz Club 1) Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro Favorite Museum 1) New Orleans Museum of Art 2) Ogden Museum of Southern Art Favorite Historical Landmark 1) Jackson Square

Favorite TV Sports Reporter 1) Jim Henderson

MOST ADMIRED FEMALE NEW ORLEANIAN:

Favorite Boutique 1) Fleurty Girl

Favorite TV Meterologist 1) Bob Breck 2) Carl Arredondo Favorite Local Radio Personality 1) John “Spud” McConnell 2) Bobby Hebert

Favorite Remodeled/ Renovated Building 1) The Roosevelt New Orleans Favorite Place to Spot Celebrities 1) French Quarter Favorite Place to Play Hookey 1) French Quarter Favorite Golf Course 1) Audubon Park Golf Course 2) English Turn Golf & Country Club

Favorite Local Writer 1) Chris Rose 2) Errol Laborde

PLACES Favorite Grocery Store/Deli 1) Rouses Supermarket

Favorite Weekend Getaway 1) Gulf Shores, Ala. 2) Biloxi, Miss.

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Favorite Up-and-Coming Neighborhood 1) Lakeview 2) Bywater Favorite Neighborhood in Which to Raise a Family 1) Lakeview 2) Metairie 3) Tremé Favorite Place to Buy a Wedding Dress 1) Town and Country Bridal Salon & Ladies Apparel 2) Yvonne LaFleur Favorite Place to Place Your Bets 1) Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots Favorite Hotel 1) Hotel Monteleone 2) Windsor Court Hotel Favorite Bed & Breakfast 1) Cornstalk Hotel

MISC. Favorite Decision New Orleans Made This Year 1) To fix streets in the French Quarter Least Favorite Decision New Orleans Made This Year 1) Cutting back The Times-Picayune 2) Raising property taxes Favorite Local Event Open to the Public 1) French Quarter Festival 2) New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Favorite Work by a Charity, Organization or Group 1) Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana 2) Rau for Art Foundation Favorite New Orleans Song 1) “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?” 2) “Walking to New Orleans” 3) “They All Asked For You” Favorite Local Radio Station 1) WWOZ

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FAVORITE CARNIVAL PARADE:

Watch out New Orleans,

the Krewe of Muses is celebrating becoming a teenager this Carnival season. First parading in 2001, the Muses organization is comprised of more than 1,700 members (more than 1,000 of whom will be riding this year) who strive to “tap into and recognize the local artistic and cultural resources of the community and incorporate them into a Muses Mardi Gras tradition.” When it rolled for the first time with 610 members, this all-female organization was the first of its kind to show this kind of enthusiasm, and that visual phenomenon has become one of Mardi Gras’ darlings, in part due to its humorous, though sometimes biting, parade themes. While satirical themes can take a parade far, it’s their yearlong

KREWE OF MUSES

MIT c h e l OSBORNE P HOTOGR A P H

DINING

QUICK & EASY EDITOR’S PICKS

LONGEST LINE AWARD As a post-Katrina reform, New Orleans reduced the number of assessors from seven to one. That, however, shouldn’t mean that the line at City Hall should be seven times as long. With homestead exemptions in mind, homeowners had to spend their day in the halls of City Hall as though they were waiting for Black Friday at Walmart. Here is hoping that the assessor’s office becomes seven times more efficient.

Favorite Gourmet Takeout 1)Whole Foods Market Favorite Fried Chicken 1) Popeyes 2) Willie Mae’s Scotch House Favorite Poor Boys 1) Parkway Bakery & Tavern 2) Domilise’s Po-Boys Favorite Tacos 1) Felipe’s Taqueria 2) Taqueria Corona

Favorite Festival 1) New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2) Gretna Heritage Festival

Favorite Sushi 1) Sake Café 2) Little Tokyo Japanese Restaurant

Favorite Carnival Parade 1) Muses 2) Bacchus

Favorite Wings 1) WOW Café & Wingery 2) Buffalo Wild Wings

Favorite Live Theater 1) Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré 2) Tulane Summer Lyric Theatre

Favorite Onion Rings 1) Ye Old College Inn 2) Mandina’s Restaurant

Favorite “Treme” Character 1) Antoine Batiste, played by Wendell Pierce

– Morgan Packard (Full disclosure: happily a member of Muses)

Favorite Takeout 1) Five Happiness

Favorite Local TV Station 2) WWL-TV Channel 4 3) WVUE-TV FOX 8

Favorite New Book About New Orleans 1) The Accidental City: Improvising New Orleans, by Lawrence N. Powell

philanthropic efforts that set the Muses apart. The krewe organizes shoe drives and “Thirsty Thursday” fundraisers; even the cups that they throw from their floats are designed by a student in a New Orleans public school art program. Speaking of throws, these ladies are known for the inventiveness of their throws, from terrycloth headbands sporting the Muses logo to miniature versions of the huge “moon” light that helps start the parade. This year on Thurs., Feb. 7, at about 6:30 p.m. (if all goes according to plan), the Muses will start at Magazine and Jefferson streets, proceeding down Magazine Street to Napoleon Avenue, where they fall in behind the Knights of Babylon and Krewe of Chaos, and then follow the St. Charles Avenue parade route. Get your hands up and open your eyes, and, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a shoe.

Favorite Place to Buy King Cakes 1) Manny Randazzo King Cakes 2) Rouses Supermarket

Favorite Charter School 1) Lusher Charter New Orleans Favorite Private Elementary School 1) St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School 2) Louise S. McGehee School Favorite Private Secondary/High School 1) Jesuit High School 2) Mount Carmel Academy

Favorite Snow Balls 1) Plum Street Snoball 2) Sal’s Sno-Ball Stand 3) Hansen’s Sno-Bliz

NATIVE CUISINE Favorite Place for Cajun Food 1) Cochon Restaurant 2) Jacque-Imo’s Café Favorite Place for Creole Food 1) Galatoire’s Restaurant

ETHNIC Favorite Middle Eastern Restaurant 1) Byblos Restaurant 2) Lebanon’s Cafe Favorite Italian Restaurant 1) Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 2) Irene’s Cuisine (tie) 2) The Italian Barrel (tie) Favorite Asian Restaurant 1) Five Happiness

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Favorite Indian Restaurant 1) Nirvana Favorite Mexican/ Southwest Restaurant 1) Superior Grill 2) Juan’s Flying Burrito

SEAFOOD Favorite Seafood Restaurant 1) Drago’s Seafood Restaurant 2) Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill 3) GW Fins 4) The Galley Seafood Restaurant 5) Acme Oyster House Favorite Place to Get Raw Oysters 1) Acme Oyster House 2) Casamento’s Restaurant Favorite Place to Get Boiled Crawfish 1) Rouses Supermarket 2) Dennis’ Seafood

PIZZA Favorite Pizza Restaurant 1) Reginelli’s 2) Slice Favorite Pizza Topping 1) Pepperoni 2) Cheese

MEAT Favorite Restaurant for Steaks 1) Ruth’s Chris Steak House 2) Crescent City Steak House Favorite Burger 1) Phil’s Grill 2) Yo Mama’s Bar & Grill 3) Cowbell 4) Tru Burger (tie) 4) Port of Call (tie)

SOUP Favorite Place for Gumbo 1) Gumbo Shop 2) Commander’s Palace Favorite Place for Turtle Soup 1) Commander’s Palace 2) Ralph’s on the Park

COFFEE & DESSERT Favorite Coffeehouse 1) PJ’s Coffee 2) Café Du Monde 82

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FAVORITE RESTAURANT, FAVORITE RESTAURANT FOR FINE DINING, FAVORITE PLACE FOR CREOLE FOOD:

GALATOIRE’S Ga l a t o i r e ’ s p r i d e s i t s e l f i n

tradition. It is perhaps the only fine-dining restaurant left that still requires jackets for dinner. For more than 100 years Galatoire’s has been serving impeccable French Creole cuisine with an ambience that encourages table-hopping, conversation and some of the best people-watching. Founded in 1905 by Jean Galatoire, who brought with him recipes and traditions inspired by the dining styles of the small village of Pardies, France, where he grew up. The restaurant is in its fourth generation of family guidance. Today, Galatoire’s is overseen by chief operating officer Melvin Rodrigue, who works in close conjunction with David Gooch (Galatoire’s grandson), Billy Clark and executive

chef Michael Sichel. Though customs still hold strong (for instance, every woman who celebrates her birthday at the restaurant is either “18” or “21,” and many regulars request their favorite waiter) changes are slowly coming, including the restaurant’s plans to expand with the purchase of 215 Bourbon St. next door. You can now make reservations to dine on the second floor and pay with a credit card; your waiter doesn’t hand-chip the ice for your drinks, but Galatoire’s seems destined to remain much the same for the next 100 years of its lauded and favored existence. Galatoire’s, 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, galatoires.com – M.P. S A R A ESSEX BR A D LE Y P HOTOGR A P H

M A R Y LO U U TTERMOHLEN P HOTOGR A P H

New Orleanians seem to like their little dose of

EDITOR’S PICKS

Willy Wonka, especially now that it has two locations. Sucré, the brainchild of co-owner Joel Dondis and head pastry chef and co-owner Tariq Hanna – serves macarons, artisan chocolates, King Cakes, gelato, marshmallows, drinking chocolate, candied pecans, coffee, chocolate bars, cupcakes, barks, shakes, gift sets and umbrellas. They even have a free iPad/iPhone game called Sucré Macaron Madness. Often when one tries to do too many things, everything suffers. But with Sucré, the more options they add, the sweeter the taste becomes. In addition to all of this, the chefs at Sucré create petit fours and one-ofa-kind sculptured cakes for weddings and events, as well as catering dessert receptions and creating unforgettable favors. As if the tastes weren’t enough, Sucré boasts airy spaces decorated with cheerful, almost mod colors, desserts that seem too pretty to eat presented elegantly and packaging that’s well considered and almost as addicting as their macarons. And, if you can’t make to one of their locations, you can order from their website.

SAVORY FIREMEN AWARD There are lots of joke possibilities to the notion of a pie factory burning, but we choose to make none of them as we mourn the destruction of the Hubig’s Pie factory in Marigny. (Hubig’s symbol was a corpulent baker named Savory Simon.) The owners say they will rebuild. We will do the same with our appetites.

Sucré, 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311; Lakeside Mall, 3301 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, 834-2277; ShopSucre.com – M.P.

FAVORITE SWEET SHOP:

SUCRÉ

Favorite Coffeehouse for Food 1) Caffe! Caffe! 2) Royal Blend Coffee and Tea House Favorite Dessert Menu 1) Commander’s Palace 2) Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro (tie) 2) Angelo Brocato’s Italian Ice Cream Parlor (tie) Favorite Bakery 1) Haydel’s Bakery 2) Maurice’s French Pastries 3) Manny Randazzo King Cakes Favorite Sweet Shop 1) Sucré 2) Blue Frog Chocolates Favorite Ice Cream/ Gelato Shop 1) Angelo Brocato’s Italian Ice Cream Parlor 2) Sucré

AMBIANCE Favorite Restaurant for Fine Dining 1) Galatoire’s Favorite Casual Restaurant 1) Smashburger

Favorite Wine List 1) Antoine’s Favorite Sports Bar 1) Walk-On’s 2) Cooter Brown’s Tavern, Grill & Oyster Bar Favorite Hotel Bar 1) Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone 2) Columns Hotel Favorite Local Beer 1) Abita Amber

MISCELLANEOUS Favorite French Bread 1) Leidenheimer’s Favorite Place for a Salad 1) Houston’s Restaurant Favorite Place for Vegetarian Dishes 1) Green Goddess Favorite Place for Breakfast or Brunch 1) Surrey’s Café & Juice Bar 2) The Court of Two Sisters Favorite Place for Latenight Dining 1) Camellia Grill

Favorite Outdoor Dining 1) Martinique Bistro 2) The Court of Two Sisters Favorite Restaurant for a Power Lunch 1) Mr. B’s Bistro 2) Ruth’s Chris Steak House (tie) 2) Galatoire’s (tie)

DRINKS Favorite House Specialty Drink 1) Sazerac at Sazerac Bar 2) Pimm’s Cup at Napoleon House Favorite place for a Margarita 1) Superior Grill

2) Felipe’s Taqueria 3) Juan’s Flying Burrito

Cleanest Restaurant 1) Ralph’s on the Park

PERSONALITIES & PLACES Favorite Caterer 1) Pigéon Catering Favorite Chef 1) John Besh Favorite Restaurant 1) Galatoire’s 2) Ralph’s on the Park Favorite Restaurant Opened in 2012 1) R’evolution Favorite Restaurant Worth the Drive 1) Middendorf’s

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Lourdes Moran wore optimistic yellow from

neck to knee at the Orleans Parish School Board’s November meeting, even though it was one of her last. Her sunny attire stood out among the usual gray and black business suits, but when she spoke, she was all business – as usual. As an accountant and chairwoman of the board’s budget and finance committee, she asked about dollars and cents, the extra money that Orleans Parish homeowners would pay if the board voted to accept the financial windfall created by higher than expected tax revenues. After a stream of school officials urged the 84

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board to take the money, she and the other six members voted unanimously to receive almost double the $5.1 million in extra revenue that had already been budgeted for next year. Since the board’s task was similar to banking lottery winnings, the meeting produced none of the “hostile dysfunction” that one observer said marked previous meetings. In addition to the ease of the issue, this particular board had less reason to squabble for the moment. Three of the seven were defeated during the Nov. 6, 2012 election. Their power to shape school policy all but evaporated the moment the votes were tallied. BR Y A N T A RNO W S K I P HOTOGR A P H

Of the three, Moran’s defeat, in a squeaker of a race that seemed hers until the final count, created the most buzz. As a key player in the board’s financial recovery from near bankruptcy, her surprise defeat is a reminder that the makeup and attitudes of an elected board are subject to change. No matter how effective an elected official is, voters sometimes act according to a different set of measures. That fact is nothing new, but in the case of the OPSB, every alteration, no matter how nuanced, is subject to microscopic analysis because the future of the city’s public schools is at stake.

“The people of New Orleans have lost an important, important person in Lourdes Moran,” says outgoing board Chairman Thomas Robichaux. “Her being off the school board is more impactful than me being off the school board. The lack of her presence is a big blow.” When Moran was first elected eight years ago, the OPSB’s financial picture was so bleak, the state forced the board to hire a New York turnaround firm to get it out of financial crisis. Federal officials wanted to know what happened to $70 million in federal grants, and an audit discovered that some employees were still myneworleans.com

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getting paychecks even though they hadn’t worked for the school system in years. The state put the board in a “high-risk” status that wasn’t lifted until last summer. After Hurricane Katrina flooded schools in 2005, and the state took over most of them because they were “failing,” the Orleans Parish school system shrank to a handful of successful schools. Along the way, its chairwoman was convicted of taking $140,000 in bribes. Since that low point, the OPSB has worked to remove the albatross it carried by refinancing debt. Over time, the board secured one of the strongest bond ratings. “In one day we saved $25 million dollars,” Robichaux says.

“The people of New Orleans have lost an important, important person in Lourdes Moran. Her being off the school board is more impactful than me being off the school board. The lack of her presence is a big blow.” Outgoing board Chairman Thomas Robichaux

“Lourdes, of all the board members, deserves the most credit for the fiscal reforms.” Nonetheless, the majority of voters in District 4 favored her opponent. The boundaries of Moran’s district changed because of population shifts, but she doesn’t think the redistricting played much of a role in her defeat. “I think there was an effort to change that board to a majority African American board,” she says. Moran, who is Hispanic, said her view of the election is “speculative,” but the outcome did tilt the racial makeup of the sevenmember board to four black members and three white members. “It’s swung back,” Caroline Roemer Shirley, Executive Director of the Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools, says of the new racial makeup of the board. “I think that it’s important because the majority of students are African American.” Robichaux’s defeat wasn’t surprising. He was a white man running in a majority black district. His opponent also won the endorsement of Mayor Mitch Landrieu and financial backing from Leslie Jacobs, a former member of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and key player in education reforms. Robichaux worries that the board will return to its former politics as usual character. “I am so very proud of all the progress we have made,” he says. “I just hope and pray the new board will keep these reforms in place.” Moran and Robichaux are to be replaced by Leslie Ellison, a former charter school board member with a reputation for religious conservatism, and Nolan Marshall, a photographer and business owner, respectively. Their views on reform issues and charter schools are unknown for the most part, but Marshall said 86

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in a WWNO interview conducted by The Lens that he believes that two seats or more should be mayoral appointees. Marshall’s openness to structural changes may have brought him some supporters because many charter operators blame elected school boards nationwide for the poor performance of urban schools. As a consequence, several proposals for changing the structure of the OPSB are floating around. Most of them consist of diluting the elected board’s power, especially over operations of schools. “It’s not personal,” says Jay Altman, CEO of FirstLine Schools, a charter management operator known for school turnarounds. “It’s just bad structure, and New Orleans has the opportunity to set a model for the rest of the country.” How such a structure could be accomplished is unclear. Any legislative proposal altering school board structure is bound to get push back from school board members in other districts. They would view it as a threat to their influence. Board member Brett Bonin was defeated by Sarah Usdin, founder of New Schools for New Orleans, a nonprofit that has raised money for charter schools. She was backed by reform groups pushing a reform agenda nationwide. In fact, behind the scenes, there are two opposing mindsets about how New Orleans’ schools should look in the 21st century. One is the charter model run by educators with proven track records in raising student achievement. The other is any school that’s locally controlled and considers community needs. The new board took office Jan. 1. One of the first decisions that it’s likely to take up is the hiring of a permanent superintendent. The board’s choice will send a message about its future direction, many observers say. “What scares the heck out of me,” Moran says, “is that someone internally will make the decision. Our staff is very traditionally minded.” The central OPSB staff of around 50 is about all that’s left of the former OPSB school system of over 100 schools, and its members are still rooted in the old ineffective ways, Moran says. Even though new state laws strip tenure from teachers who are deemed ineffective by a tough evaluation system, Moran says OPSB staff members are still tenured, and their job security is rock solid. “To get rid of someone is a nightmare,” she says. “A hearing process can last six months. Who has that kind of time to donate to get rid of an individual?” Another problem is the staff’s guaranteed time off. “They take all the holidays the schools take, plus some,” Moran says, “plus five weeks vacation. It’s the craziest thing I have ever seen.” This new board takes charge at a time that 13 successful charters are eligible to return to the board’s control if they choose to do so. Others are likely to become eligible next year. Any perceived cracks in the previous board’s pro-reform leanings could seal the fate of the city’s schools for years to come. “I don’t think I would personally be ready to return,” says Mickey Landry, head of Lafayette Academy, one of the schools that could return this year. “It took a long time for the [board’s] corruption and dysfunction and ineffectiveness to develop. It will take a longer period for a culture of honesty and fairness and efficiency to settle in.” BR Y A N T A RNO W S K I P HOTOGR A P H

GUIDE TO SCHOOLS Area private elementary and secondary schools, public and private universities and public charter schools COMPILED BY KRISTI FERRANTE

COLLEGES

Delgado Community College

Top Executive: Monty Sullivan, Chancellor 615 City Park Avenue (8 locations in region) Telephone: 504.671.5012 Fax: 504.671.5000 Website: dcc.edu Total Enrollment: 18,150 % and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 80% Tuition per Semester: N/A Year Founded: 1921 Academic Specialties: Allied Health, Nursing, Workforce Development, Tech Training, ESL, Culinary Arts, Business, Adult Basic Education No. of Full-Time Faculty: 508 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 470 Accredited By: SACSCOC Highest Academic Degree: Associate Degree

Dillard University

Top Executive: Walter M. Kimbrough, President 2601 Gentilly Boulevard Telephone: 504.283.8822 Website: dillard.edu Total Enrollment: 1307 % and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 100% Tuition per Semester: 6,825 Year Founded: 1869 Academic Specialties: Nursing, Public Health, Business, Communications, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), Humanities, Arts and Sciences No. of Full-Time Faculty: 63 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 76 Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS); National League of Nursing; Louisiana State Board of Nursing Education; and the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) Highest Academic Degree: B.A., B.S., B.S.N.

Loyola University New Orleans

Top Executive: Rev. Kevin Wm. Wildes, S.J., Ph.D. 6363 St. Charles Avenue Telephone: 504.865.3240 Fax: 504.865.3383 Website: loyno.edu Total Enrollment: 5092 % and/or # of Students

Receiving Financial Aid: 92% Tuition per Semester: 16,923 Year Founded: 1912 Academic Specialties: Bus., Bio., Crim. Just., Music, Nursing, Comm. & P.R., Music Industry No. of Full-Time Faculty: 366 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 163 Accredited By: SACS Highest Academic Degree: J.D./ MBA, DNP

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

Top Executive: Dr. Charles S. Kelley, Jr. 3939 Gentilly Boulevard Telephone: 504.282.4455 Fax: 504.816.8451 Website: nobts.edu Total Enrollment: 3740 % and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: N/A Tuition per Semester: 1,860 Year Founded: 1917 Academic Specialties: Theology, Ministry, Christian Education, Preaching, Church Music No. of Full-Time Faculty: 61 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 30 Accredited By: Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges, National Association of Schools of Music Highest Academic Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

Our Lady of Holy Cross College

Top Executive: Ronald J. Ambrosetti, Ph.D. 4123 Woodland Drive Telephone: 504.394.7744 Fax: 504.394.1182 Website: olhcc.edu Total Enrollment: 1172 % and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 849 Tuition per Semester: 4,260 Year Founded: 1916 Academic Specialties: Bus., Lib. Arts, Ed., Nursing, Coun., Theology, Biology and Allied Health No. of Full-Time Faculty: 49 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 67 Accredited By: SACS; National League for Nursing Accred Comm., International Assembly for Collegiate Bus Ed; Council for Accred of Counseling & Related Programs (CACREP); Joint Review Comm on

Education Radiologic Tech; National Council for Accred of Teacher Ed Highest Academic Degree: MS/ MED

Tulane University

Top Executive: Scott Cowen, President 6823 St. Charles Avenue, Telephone: 504.865.5210 Fax: 504.862.8777 Website: tulane.edu Total Enrollment: 13,359 % and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 79 Tuition per Semester: 22,620 Year Founded: 1834 Academic Specialties: Architecture, Business, Law, Liberal Arts, Medicine, Public Health and Tropical Medicine, The Sciences and Engineering, Social Work, Continuing Studies No. of Full-Time Faculty: 1,142 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 981 Accredited By: The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Highest Academic Degree: PhD

University of New Orleans

Top Executive: Dr. Peter J. Fos, President 2000 Lakeshore Drive Telephone: 504.280.6595 or 800.256.5866 Website: uno.edu Total Enrollment: 10,200 % and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 5613 Tuition per Semester: 5213 (in-state) Year Founded: 1958 Academic Specialties: Film, Jazz Studies, Urban Planning, Navel Architect and Marine Engineering, Accounting No. of Full-Time Faculty: N/A No. of Part-Time Faculty: N/A Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commision of Colleges Highest Academic Degree: Doctoral

Xavier University of Louisiana Top Executive: Dr. Norman C. Francis One Drexel Drive Telephone: 504.520.7388 Fax: 504.520.7941 Website: xula.edu Total Enrollment: 3178

% and/or # of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 85% Tuition per Semester: 8850 Year Founded: 1925 Academic Specialties: Pharmacy, Pre-Med, Division of Business, Division of Education No. of Full-Time Faculty: 242 No. of Part-Time Faculty: 30 Accredited By: SACS Highest Academic Degree: Doctorate of Pharmacy SECONDARY SCHOOLS

Academy of Our Lady

Top Executive: Sister Michelle Geiger Grades Served: 8-12 537 Avenue D, Marrero Telephone: 504.341.6217 Fax: 504.341.6229 Website: theacademyofourlady. org Total Enrollment: 475 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Diverse Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 42

Academy of the Sacred Heart Top Executive: Timothy M. Burns, Ph.D. Grades Served: 9-12 4521 St. Charles Avenue Telephone: 504.891.1943 Fax: 504.891.9939 Website: ashrosary.org Total Enrollment: 202 Year Founded: 1887 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 28

Archbishop Chapelle High School

Top Executive: Jane Ann Frosch Grades Served: 8-12 8800 Veterans Boulevard, Metairie Telephone: 504.467.3105 Fax: 504.466.3191 Website: archbishopchapelle.org Total Enrollment: 772 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1

No. of Full Time Faculty: 65

Archbishop Hannan High School

Top Executive: Rev. Charles Latour, O.P. Grades Served: 8-12 71324 Highway 1077, Covington Telephone: 985.249.6363 Fax: 985.249.6370 Website: hannanhigh.org Total Enrollment: 385 Year Founded: 1987 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 35

Archbishop Rummel High School

Top Executive: Brother Gale Condit, FSC, President Grades Served: 8-12 1901 Severn Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.834.5592 Fax: 504.832.4016 Website: rummelraiders.com Total Enrollment: 750 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Archdiocesan Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 60

Archbishop Shaw High School

Top Executive: Rev. Louis Molinelli Grades Served: 8-12 1000 Barataria Boulevard, Marrero Telephone: 504.340.6727 Fax: 504.347.9883 Website: archbishopshaw.org Total Enrollment: 459 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 34

Brother Martin High School Top Executive: John Devlin Grades Served: 7-12 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue Telephone: 504.283.1561 Fax: 504.286.8462 Website: brothermartin.com Total Enrollment: 1192 Year Founded: 1869 Avg. Class Size: 24

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Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 108

Cabrini High School

Top Executive: Ardley Hanemann, Jr. Grades Served: 8-12 1400 Moss Street Telephone: 504.482.1193 Fax: 504.483.8671 Website: cabrinihigh.com Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 1959 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 56

De La Salle High School

Top Executive: Michael E. Guillot, President Grades Served: 8-12 5300 St. Charles Avenues Telephone: 504.895.5717 Fax: 504.895.1300 Website: delasallenola.com Total Enrollment: 450 Year Founded: 1949 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 38

Ecole Classique

Top Executive: Sal Federico Grades Served: PreK-12 5236 Glendale Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.887.3507

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Fax: 504.887.8140 Website: ecoleclassique.com Total Enrollment: 450 Year Founded: 1956 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Holy Cross School

Top Executive: Charles DiGangeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;64 Grades Served: 5-12 5500 Paris Avenue Telephone: 504.942.3100 Fax: 504.304.3804 Website: holycrosstigers.com Total Enrollment: 980 Year Founded: 1849 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 65

Holy Rosary High School

Top Executive: Len Enger Grades Served: 8-12 2437 Jena Street, New Orleans Telephone: 504.482.7173 Fax: 504.482.7229 Website: holyrosarynola.org Total Enrollment: 93 Year Founded: 2005 Avg. Class Size: 13 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 17

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Isidore Newman School

Top Executive: T.J. Locke, Head of School Grades Served: PreK-12 1903 Jefferson Avenue Telephone: 504.899.5641 Fax: 504.896.8597 Website: newmanschool.org Total Enrollment: 899 Year Founded: 1903 Avg. Class Size: Lower: 18; Middle: 16-18; Upper: 17-19 Dress Requirements: Lower: Uniform; Middle & Upper: Dress Code Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Lower: 9:1; Middle & Upper: 14-17:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 98

Jesuit High School

Top Executive: Michael Giambelluca, Principal Grades Served: 8-12 4133 Banks Street Telephone: 504.486.6631 Fax: 504.483.3942 Website: jesuitnola.org Total Enrollment: 1382 Year Founded: 1847 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 114

John Curtis Christian School

Top Executive: J.T. Curtis Grades Served: PreK-12 10125 Jefferson Highway, River Ridge Telephone: 504.737.4621

Fax: 504.739.2341 Website: johncurtis.com Total Enrollment: 800 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Christian Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 55

Life of Christ Christian Academy

Top Executive: Cheryl Leufroy Frilot, Principal/President Grades Served: PreK-12 1851 N. Dorgenois Street Telephone: 504.945.5778 Website: lifeofchristacademy.com Total Enrollment: 92 Year Founded: 1997 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: None Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 9

Louise S. McGehee School

Top Executive: Eileen F. Powers Grades Served: PreK-12 2343 Prytania Street Telephone: 504.561.1224 Fax: 504.525.7910 Website: mcgeheeschool.com Total Enrollment: 539 Year Founded: 1912 Avg. Class Size: 10 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 83

Lutheran High School of Greater New Orleans

Top Executive: Lois Rost Grades Served: 9-12 3864 17th Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.455.4062 Fax: 504.455.4453 Website: lutheranhighschool.net Total Enrollment: 77 Year Founded: 1970 Avg. Class Size: 11 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Student Mix: Multi-Ethnic Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 8

Metairie Park Country Day School

Top Executive: Carolyn Chandler Grades Served: 6-12 300 Park Road, Metairie Telephone: 504.837.5204 Fax: 504.837.0015 Website: mpcds.com Total Enrollment: 391 Year Founded: 1929 Avg. Class Size: 12 Dress Requirements: None Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8.5:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 43

Mount Carmel Academy

Top Executive: Sister Camille Anne Campbell, O.Carm., President/Principal Grades Served: 8-12 7027 Milne Boulevard Telephone: 504.288.7626 Fax: 504.288.7629 Website: mcacubs.org Total Enrollment: 1175

Year Founded: 1896 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 128

Northlake Christian School

Top Executive: L. Joe Shorter, Head of Schools; Monty Fontenot, Principal Grades Served: 7-12 70104 Wolverine Drive, Covington Telephone: 985.635.0400 Fax: 985.893.4363 Website: northlakechristian.org Total Enrollment: 415 Year Founded: 1977 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 22:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 33

Pope John Paul II Catholic High School

Top Executive: Martha Mundine Grades Served: 9-12 1901 Jaguar Drive, Slidell Telephone: 985.649.0914 Fax: 985.649.5494 Website: pjp.org Total Enrollment: 288 Year Founded: 1980 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 19

Ridgewood Preparatory School

Top Executive: M.J. Montgomery, Jr. Grades Served: PreK-12 201 Pasadena Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.835.2545 Fax: 504.837.1864 Website: ridgewoodprep.com Total Enrollment: 300 Year Founded: 1948 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Dress Code: 5-12 Affiliation: Independent Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 35

St. Augustine High School

Top Executive: Mr. Don Boucree Grades Served: 6-12 2600 A.P. Tureaud Avenue Telephone: 504.944.2424 Fax: 504.947.7712 Website: purpleknights.com Total Enrollment: 656 Year Founded: 1951 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 50

St. Martin’s Episcopal School

Top Executive: Merry Sorrells, Head of School Grades Served: Nursery2-12 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie Telephone: 504.736.9917 Fax: 504.736.8801 Website: stmsaints.com Total Enrollment: 560 Year Founded: 1947

Avg. Class Size: 17 Dress Requirements: PreK5: Uniform; 6-12: Specified Standards Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 62

St. Mary’s Academy

Top Executive: Sister Jennie Jones Grades Served: 6-12 6905 Chef Menteur Boulevard Telephone: 504.245.0200 Fax: 504.245.0422 Website: smaneworleans.com Total Enrollment: 300 Year Founded: 1867 Avg. Class Size: 20 or Less Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: 6-12, Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 51

St. Mary’s Dominican High School

Top Executive: Cynthia A. Thomas, Ed.D Grades Served: 8-12 7701 Walmsley Avenue Telephone: 504.865.9401 Fax: 504.866.5958 Website: stmarysdominican.org Total Enrollment: 878 Year Founded: 1860 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 56

St. Paul’s School

Top Executive: Brother Raymond Bulliard, FSC, Principal/President Grades Served: 8-12 917 South Jahncke Avenue, Covington Telephone: 985.892.3200 Fax: 985.892.4048 Website: stpauls.com Total Enrollment: 850 Year Founded: 1911 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 23:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 75

St. Scholastica Academy

Top Executive: Marguerite S. Celestin Grades Served: 8-12 122 South Massachusetts Street, Covington Telephone: 985.892.2540 Fax: 985.893.5256 Website: ssacad.com Total Enrollment: 656 Year Founded: 1903 Avg. Class Size: 19 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 62

Ursuline Academy High School

Top Executive: Glenn Gennaro Grades Served: 8-12 2635 State Street Telephone: 504.861.9150 Fax: 504.861.7392 Website: ursulineneworleans.org

Total Enrollment: 428 Year Founded: 1727 Avg. Class Size: Varies Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Xavier University Preparatory

Top Executive: Joseph E. Peychaud, Jr., President; Cherllyn Branche, Principal Grades Served: 7-12 5116 Magazine Street Telephone: 504.899.6061 Fax: 504.891.8766 Website: xavierprep.com Total Enrollment: 236 Year Founded: 1915 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 23 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Academy of the Sacred Heart Top Executive: Timothy M. Burns, Ph.D. Grades Served: Toddler-8 4521 St. Charles Avenue (Toddler-4); 4301 St. Charles Avenue (5-8) Telephone: 504.891.1943 Fax: 504.891.9939 Website: ashrosary.org Total Enrollment: 550 Year Founded: 1887 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic

myneworleans.com

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Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 74

Arden Cahill Academy

Top Executive: Mary Kevin Cahill Grades Served: Infant Centre: 6 weeks; Preschool-8 3101 Wall Boulevard, Gretna Telephone: 504.392.0902 Fax: 504.392.3813 Website: ardencahillacademy. com Total Enrollment: 580 Year Founded: 1968 Avg. Class Size: 17 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Varies by grade level No. of Full Time Faculty: 61

Atonement Lutheran School

Top Executive: Douglas C. Molin Grades Served: Preschool-8 6500 Riverside Drive, Metairie Telephone: 504.887.0225 Fax: 504.887.0225 Website: alcs.org Total Enrollment: 249 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 21 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Student Mix: N/A Student/Teacher Ratio: 21:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 12

Calvary Baptist School

Top Executive: Michael Carney, Headmaster/Carol Spears, Principal Grades Served: PreK-7

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2401 General DeGaulle Drive Telephone: 504.367.6465 Fax: 504.367.6632 Website: mycalvaryeagles.com Total Enrollment: 135 Year Founded: 1982 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Baptist Student Mix: N/A Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 18

Cathedral Academy

Top Executive: Sister Mary Sheila Maksim, O.P. Grades Served: PreK4-7 820 Dauphine Street Telephone: 504.525.3860 Fax: 504.525.3193 Website: cathedralacademyno. org Total Enrollment: 162 Year Founded: 1914 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 12

Cedarwood School

Top Executive: Kathryn LeBlanc Grades Served: PreK-7 607 Heavens Drive, Mandeville Telephone: 985.845.7111 Fax: 985.845.0669 Website: cedarwoodschool.com Total Enrollment: 320 Year Founded: 1983 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform (K-7) Affiliation: Non-Denominational

myneworleans.com

Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 52

Christ the King Parish School

Top Executive: Cindy Ruel Grades Served: PreK3-8 2106 Deerfield Road, Terrytown Telephone: 504.367.3601 Fax: 504.367.3679 Website: ctkterrytown.org Total Enrollment: 373 Year Founded: 1963 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: SACS Accredited/State Accredited Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 33

Christian Brothers School

Top Executive: Joey Scaffidi Grades Served: 5-7 8 Friedrichs Avenue Telephone: 504.486.6770 Fax: 504.486.1053 Website: cbs-no.org Total Enrollment: 350 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 29 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 19

Community Day School (formerly New Orleans Jewish Day School)

Top Executive: Dr. Bob Berk Grades Served: K-5 3747 West Esplanade Avenue, Metairie

Telephone: 504.887.4091 Fax: 504.780.5639 Website: communitynola.org Total Enrollment: 40 Year Founded: 1996 Avg. Class Size: 10 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Jewish Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 12

Concordia Lutheran School

Top Executive: Debra Sweeden Grades Served: PreK4-8 6700 Westbank Expressway, Marrero Telephone: 504.347.4155 Fax: 504.348.9345 Website: clsmarrero.com Total Enrollment: 235 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 14

Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orleans

Top Executive: Pauline Dides Grades Served: Nursery-7 821 General Pershing Street Telephone: 504.896.4500 Fax: 504.896.9610 Website: ebnola.com Total Enrollment: 190 Year Founded: 1998 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational; French Accredited School Student Mix: Coed

Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 28

Ecole Classique

Top Executive: Sal Federico Grades Served: PreK-12 5236 Glendale Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.887.3507 Fax: 504.887.8140 Website: ecoleclassique.com Total Enrollment: 450 Year Founded: 1956 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Faith Lutheran

Top Executive: Diane Oestriecher Grades Served: PreK-8 300 Colonial Club Drive, Harahan Telephone: 504.737.9554 Fax: 504.737.9599 Website: faithlutheran-school. com Total Enrollment: 93 Year Founded: 1958 Avg. Class Size: 10 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 or Less No. of Full Time Faculty: 8

Good Shepherd Nativity

Top Executive: Ronald Briggs, Board President/Emily Paul, Principal Grades Served: K-7 353 Baronne Street Telephone: 504.598.9399

Fax: 504.598.9346 Website: thegoodshepherdschool.org Total Enrollment: 80 Year Founded: 2001 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 13

Holy Cross School

Top Executive: Charles DiGange â&#x20AC;&#x2122;64 Grades Served: 5-12 5500 Paris Avenue Telephone: 504.942.3100 Fax: 504.304.3804 Website: holycrosstigers.com Total Enrollment: 980 Year Founded: 1849 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 65

Holy Name of Jesus

Top Executive: Courtney Wolbrette, Principal Grades Served: PreK-7 6325 Cromwell Place Telephone: 504.861.1466 Fax: 504.861.1480 Website: hnjschool.org Total Enrollment: 562 Year Founded: 1891 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 9:1

No. of Full Time Faculty: 58

Holy Rosary Academy

Top Executive: Sr. Paulette Tiefenbrunn, S.S.N.D. Grades Served: PreK-7 2437 Jena Street Telephone: 504.482.7173 Fax: 504.482.7229 Website: holyrosarynola.com Total Enrollment: 91 Year Founded: 1996 Avg. Class Size: 12 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 12

International High School of New Orleans

Top Executive: Anthony Amato Grades Served: 9-12 727 Carondelet Street Telephone: 504.613.5703 Fax: 504.566.1142 Website: www.ihsnola.org Total Enrollment: 450 Year Founded: 2009 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) (only in New Orleans) Student Mix: N/A Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full-Time Faculty: 35

Isidore Newman School

Top Executive: T.J. Locke, Head of School Grades Served: PreK-12 1903 Jefferson Avenue

Telephone: 504.899.5641 Fax: 504.896.8597 Website: newmanschool.org Total Enrollment: 899 Year Founded: 1903 Avg. Class Size: Lower: 18; Middle: 16-18; Upper: 17-19 Dress Requirements: Lower: Uniform; Middle & Upper: Dress Code Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Lower: 9:1; Middle & Upper: 14-17:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 98

John Curtis Christian School

Top Executive: J.T. Curtis Grades Served: PreK-12 10125 Jefferson Highway, River Ridge Telephone: 504.737.4621 Fax: 504.739.2341 Website: johncurtis.com Total Enrollment: 800 Year Founded: 1962 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Christian Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 55

Kehoe-France

Top Executive: Kyle France Grades Served: 12months-8 720 Elise Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.733.0472 Fax: 504.733.0477 Website: kehoe-france.com Total Enrollment: 600 Year Founded: 1949 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform

Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 65

Lake Castle Private School Slidell

Top Executive: Brian Butera Grades Served: PreK-8 59461 LA Hwy 433, Slidell Telephone: 985.641.3363 Fax: 985.641.3363 Website: lakecastleschool.com Total Enrollment: 540 Year Founded: 1963 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 33

Lake Castle Private School Madisonville

Top Executive: Barry Butera Grades Served: PreK-8 235 Highway 21, Madisonville Telephone: 985.845.3537 Fax: 985.845.3537 Website: lakecastle.com Total Enrollment: 655 Year Founded: 1995 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 42

Lake Castle Private School New Orleans

Top Executive: Jane Butera McGovern, Head of School Grades Served: PreK-8

8400 Hayne Boulevard Telephone: 504.242.6270 Fax: 504.241.7844 Website: lakecastleneworleans. com Total Enrollment: 565 Year Founded: 1963 Avg. Class Size: Varies Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1 (but varies by classroom) No. of Full Time Faculty: 30

Life of Christ Christian Academy

Louise S. McGehee School

myneworleans.com

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Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 83

Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic School Top Executive: Sybil Skansi, President Grades Served: PreK3-7 1515 West Causeway Approach, Mandeville Telephone: 985.674.2466 Fax: 985.674.1441 Website: mqpcs.org Total Enrollment: 540 Year Founded: 1996 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 45

Metairie Park Country Day School

Top Executive: Carolyn Chandler Grades Served: PreK-5 300 Park Road, Metairie Telephone: 504.837.5204 Fax: 504.837.0015 Website: mpcds.com Total Enrollment: 322 Year Founded: 1929 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: None Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 9.4:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 28

Milestone SABIS Academy of New Orleans

Top Executive: Catherine Boozer Grades Served: K-9 1407 Virgil Street, Gretna Telephone: 504.894.0557 Fax: 504.894.0235 Website: N/A Total Enrollment: 428 Year Founded: 2003 Avg. Class Size: N/A Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: SABIS Education System Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 52

Northlake Christian School

Top Executive: Missie Arnold, M.Ed. Grades Served: K-6 70104 Wolverine Drive, Covington Telephone: 985.635.0400 Fax: N/A Website: northlakechristian.org Total Enrollment: 292 Year Founded: 1977 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Non-Denominational Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 27

Our Lady of Divine Providence School Top Executive: Elvina DiBartolo Grades Served: Nursery-8 917 N. Atlanta Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.466.0951 Fax: 504.466.0671 Website: oldpschool.org Total Enrollment: 270 Year Founded: 1967 Avg. Class Size: 18-22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic

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Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 23

Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 35

Our Lady of Lourdes School

St. Agnes School

Top Executive: Robert Kiefer Grades Served: PreK-8 345 Westchester Boulevard, Slidell Telephone: 985.643.3230 Fax: 985.645.0648 Website: ollonline.com Total Enrollment: 460 Year Founded: 1929 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 33

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Top Executive: Bridget Sinibaldi Grades Served: PreK3-8 3410 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson Telephone: 504.835.6486 Fax: 504.835.4295 Website: mystagnes.com Total Enrollment: 221 Year Founded: 1941 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 17

St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church

Top Executive: Deborah Bradbury, M.Ed., Principal Grades Served: PreK4-8 531 Williams Boulevard, Kenner Telephone: 504.464.0531 Fax: 504.464.0725 Website: olphla.org Total Enrollment: 217 Year Founded: 1928 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 16

Top Executive: Nicole Alvarez, Principal Grades Served: PreK3-8 3131 Eton Street Telephone: 504.394.4171 Fax: 504.391.3627 Website: sasno.org Total Enrollment: 597 Year Founded: 1953 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 45

Our Lady of Prompt Succor

St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

Top Executive: Sharon Coll Grades Served: PreK-8 2305 Fenelon Street, Chalmette Telephone: 504.271.2953 Fax: 504.271.1490 Website: olpsschool.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 1952 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 30

Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic School

Top Executive: Frank Smith, Principal Grades Served: 3year-7 316 Lafitte Street, Mandeville Telephone: 985.626.5678 Fax: 985.626.4337 Website: ourladyofthelakeschool. org Total Enrollment: 800 Year Founded: 1890 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Varies by grade level No. of Full Time Faculty: 50

Ridgewood Preparatory School

myneworleans.com

Top Executive: Mason Lecky Grades Served: PreK-8 8012 Oak Street, New Orleans Telephone: 504.861.3743 Fax: 504.861.3973 Website: standrewsepiscopalschool.org Total Enrollment: 188 Year Founded: 1957 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Informal Dress Code Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 5:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 30

St. Angela Merici

Top Executive: Colleen Remont Grades Served: PreK2-7 835 Melody Drive, Metairie Telephone: 504.835.8491 Fax: 504.835.4463 Website: stangelaschool.org Total Enrollment: 405 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 38

St. Ann School

Top Executive: Susan Kropog Grades Served: Early Childhood (2yr olds) - 7 4921 Meadowdale Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.455.8383 Fax: 504.455.9572 Website: stannschool.org Total Enrollment: 900 Year Founded: 1972 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1

No. of Full Time Faculty: 81

St. Anthony of Padua

Top Executive: Sr. Ruth Angelette, O.P. Grades Served: Preschool2-7 4601 Cleveland Avenue Telephone: 504.488.4426 Fax: 504.488.5373 Website: stanthonyofpadua.net Total Enrollment: 170 Year Founded: 1915 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic/Dominican Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 13

St. Benilde School

Top Executive: John “Matt” Downey V Grades Served: PreK1-7 1801 Division Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.833.9894 Fax: 504.834.4380 Website: stbenilde.com Total Enrollment: 289 Year Founded: 1968 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 24

St. Catherine of Siena

Top Executive: Frances Dee Tarantino Grades Served: PreK3-7 400 Codifer Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.831.1166 Fax: 504.833.8982 Website: scsgators.org Total Enrollment: 903 Year Founded: 1926 Avg. Class Size: 19-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 52

St. Christopher School

Top Executive: Ruth Meche Grades Served: PreK2-8 3900 Derbigny Street, Metairie Telephone: 504.837.6871 Fax: 504.834.0522 Website: stchristopherschool.org Total Enrollment: 708 Year Founded: 1949 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

St. Clement of Rome

Top Executive: Chad Howat Grades Served: PreK-7 3978 West Esplanade Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.888.0386 Fax: 504.885.8273 Website: scrschool.org Total Enrollment: 480 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: PreK&K: 19; 1-7: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 26

St. Cletus School

Top Executive: Jill Grabert, Principal

Grades Served: PreK3-8 3610 Claire Avenue, Gretna Telephone: 504.366.3538 Fax: 504.366.0011 Website: stcletuscolts.com Total Enrollment: 579 Year Founded: 1978 Avg. Class Size: 26 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 33

St. Dominic School

Top Executive: Adrianne LeBlanc Grades Served: PreK4-7 6326 Memphis Street Telephone: 504.482.4123 Fax: 504.486.3870 Website: stdominicnola.org Total Enrollment: 530 Year Founded: 1924 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 45

St. Edward the Confessor School

Top Executive: Thomas Becker, Ph.D. Grades Served: PreK3-8 4901 West Metairie Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.888.6353 Fax: 504.456.0960 Website: steddy.org Total Enrollment: 487 Year Founded: 1965 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 31

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Top Executive: Joan Kathmann, Principal Grades Served: Early Childhood 2-7 4119 Saint Elizabeth Drive, Kenner Telephone: 504.468.3524 Fax: 504.469.6014 Website: seasschool.org Total Enrollment: 490 Year Founded: 1984 Avg. Class Size: 25-30 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 45

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School

Top Executive: Barbara M. Martin, Principal Grades Served: PreK2-7 215 Betz Place, Metairie Telephone: 504.833.1471 Fax: 504.833.1498 Website: stfrancisxavier.com Total Enrollment: 456 Year Founded: 1926 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of N.O. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 41

St. George’s Episcopal School

Top Executive: Rob Eichberger Grades Served: Preschool

(ages1-3), PreK-8 923 Napoleon Avenue Telephone: 504.891.5509 Fax: 504.895.1225 Website: stgeorgesepiscopal.com Total Enrollment: 305 (PK-8), 80 (Preschool) Year Founded: 1969 Avg. Class Size: 10-12 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed (Preschool-8) Student/Teacher Ratio: 5:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 60

St. Joan of Arc Catholic School

Telephone: 504.736.9917 Fax: 504.736.8801 Website: stmsaints.com Total Enrollment: 560 Year Founded: 1947 Avg. Class Size: 17 Dress Requirements: PreK5: Uniform; 6-12: Specified Standards Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 79

Fax: 504.304.8315 Website: stpauls-lakeview.org Total Enrollment: 271 Year Founded: 1961 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Independent, Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 8.4:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 43 (not counting staff)

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic School

Top Executive: Melody Barousse Grades Served: PreK3-7 130 E. Temperance Street, Covington Telephone: 985.892.1831 Fax: 985.898.2185 Website: stpetercov.org Total Enrollment: 798 Year Founded: 1843 Avg. Class Size: 27 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: PreK-3: 18:1; 4-7: 27:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 70

Top Executive: Dionne Frost Grades Served: PreK4-8 919 Cambronne Street Telephone: 504.861.2887 Fax: 504.866.9588 Website: stjoanofarcnoschool. com Total Enrollment: 284 Year Founded: 1893 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 17

Top Executive: Kimberly Downes Grades Served: PreK2-8 6421 West Metairie Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.733.1433 Fax: 504.736.0727 Website: smmcougars.org Total Enrollment: 390 Year Founded: 1954 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1-Primary; 22:1-Upper No. of Full Time Faculty: 30

St. John Lutheran

St. Mary’s Academy

Top Executive: Bethany Gonski Grades Served: Preschool-6 3937 Canal Street Telephone: 504.488.6641 Fax: 504.482.2101 Website: sjlno.com Total Enrollment: 115 Year Founded: 1854 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 8

St. Louis King of France Catholic School

Top Executive: Pamela Keenan Schott Grades Served: 6 weeks-7 1600 Lake Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.833.8224 Fax: 504.838.9938 Website: slkfschool.com Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 1953 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed - Separated by gender beginning in 5th grade Student/Teacher Ratio: 8.5:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 70

St. Margaret Mary

Top Executive: Bobby Ohler Grades Served: PreK3-8 1050-A Robert Road, Slidell Telephone: 985.643.4612 Fax: 985.643.4659 Website: saintmm.org Total Enrollment: 685 Year Founded: 1966 Avg. Class Size: 26 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 45

St. Martin’s Episcopal School

Top Executive: Merry Sorrells, Head of School Grades Served: Nursery 2 -12 225 Green Acres Road, Metairie

Top Executive: Sister Jennie Jones Grades Served: Montessori-5 6905 Chef Menteur Boulevard Telephone: 504.245.0200 Fax: 504.245.0422 Website: smaneworleans.com Total Enrollment: 634 total/400Elementary Year Founded: 1867 Avg. Class Size: 25 or Less Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: PreK-5: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 51

St. Matthew the Apostle School Top Executive: Dennis Panepinto Grades Served: PreK2-7 10021 Jefferson Highway, River Ridge Telephone: 504.737.4604 Fax: 504.738.7985 Website: smaschool.net Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 47

St. Paul Lutheran School

Top Executive: Chuck Schiller Grades Served: PreK3&4-8 2624 Burgundy Street Telephone: 504.947.1773 Fax: 504.945.3743 Website: splno.com Total Enrollment: 170 Year Founded: 1840 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Lutheran Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 11

St. Paul’s Episcopal School

Top Executive: Charleen Schwank, Interim Head of School Grades Served: Infant-8 6249 Canal Boulevard Telephone: 504.488.1319

St. Peter Catholic School

St. Philip Neri Catholic School

Top Executive: Carol Stack, Ph.D. Grades Served: PreK3-7 6600 Kawanee Avenue, Metairie Telephone: 504.887.5600 Fax: 504.456.6857 Website: stphilipneri.org Total Enrollment: 675 Year Founded: 1961 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 53

St. Pius X Catholic School

Top Executive: Pamela Fulham Grades Served: PreK3-7 6600 Spanish Fort Boulevard Telephone: 504.282.2811 Fax: 504.282.3043 Website: stpiusxnola.org/school Total Enrollment: 384 Year Founded: 1953 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 28

St. Rita School

Top Executive: Sister Annette Baxley Grades Served: PreK4-8 65 Fountainbleau Drive Telephone: 504.866.1777 Fax: 504.861.8512 Website: stritanola.org Total Enrollment: 208 Year Founded: 1924 Avg. Class Size: N/A Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: PK- 10:2; Primary - 26:2; 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 12

St. Rita School

Top Executive: Mrs. Miriam Daniel, Principal Grades Served: 3years-7 194 Raven Avenue, Harahan Telephone: 504.737.0744 Fax: 504.738.2184

Website: stritaharahan.com Total Enrollment: 411 Year Founded: 1953 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 11:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 30

Avg. Class Size: 10 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: Non-Denominational, Association of Waldorf Schools of North America Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 7

St. Stephen Catholic School

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Top Executive: Margaret LeBlanc Grades Served: PreK-8 1027 Napoleon Avenue Telephone: 504.891.1927 Fax: 504.891.1928 Website: N/A Total Enrollment: 200 Year Founded: 1852 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 15

Stuart Hall School for Boys

Top Executive: Kevin Avin, Head of School Grades Served: PK3-7 2032 South Carrollton Avenue Telephone: 504.861.1954 Fax: 504.861.5389 Website: stuarthall.org Total Enrollment: 348 Year Founded: 1984 Avg. Class Size: 18 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic, Independent Schools Assocation of Southwest, International Boys’ School Coalition Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Trinity Episcopal School

Akili Academy of New Orleans

Top Executive: Kate Mehok, CEO Grades Served: K-5 1700 Pratt Drive Telephone: 504.355.4172 Fax: 504.355.4176 Website: akiliacademy.org Total Enrollment: 385 Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Crescent City Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 43

Algiers Technology Academy

Top Executive: Tomika S. Washington Grades Served: 9-12 6501 Berkley Drive Telephone: 504.302.7076 Fax: 504.324.6998 Website: algierstechnologyacademy.org Total Enrollment: 330 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Algiers Charter School Association Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 27

Top Executive: The Rev. Dr. Michael C. Kuhn Grades Served: PreK-8 1315 Jackson Avenue Telephone: 504.525.8661 Fax: 504.523.4837 Website: trinitynola.com Total Enrollment: 380 Year Founded: 1960 Avg. Class Size: 16 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Episcopal Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6.5:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 70

Alice M. Harte Charter School

Ursuline Academy Elementary School

Andrew H. Wilson Charter School

Top Executive: Glenn Gennaro Grades Served: Toddler2-7 2635 State Street Telephone: 504.861.9150 Fax: 504.866.5293 Website: ursulineneworleans.org Total Enrollment: 330 Year Founded: 1727 Avg. Class Size: Varies Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Catholic Student Mix: Female Student/Teacher Ratio: 8:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Waldorf School of New Orleans

Top Executive: Cissy Rowley Grades Served: Nursery-8 517 Soraparu Street, Suite 101 Telephone: 504.525.2420 Fax: 504.525.3223 Website: waldorfnola.org Total Enrollment: 67 Year Founded: 2000

Top Executive: Adrian Morgan Grades Served: K-8 4422 General Meyer Avenue Telephone: 504.373.6281 Fax: 504.304.1817 Website: alicemhartecharter.org Total Enrollment: 681 Year Founded: 1956 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 76

Top Executive: Logan Crowe, Principal Grades Served: PreK-8 3617 General Pershing Street Telephone: 504.373.6274 Fax: 504.308.3615 Website: wilsoncharterschool.org Total Enrollment: 620 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 26 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: N/A Student/Teacher Ratio: 27:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 53

ARISE Academy

Top Executive: Andrew Shahan Grades Served: PreK-5 3819 St. Claude Avenue Telephone: 504.615.6354 Fax: 888.456.2087 Website: ariseacademy.org Total Enrollment: 461

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Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 50

Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: RSD-Charter School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 57

Arthur Ashe Charter School

Dr. Martin Luther King Charter School

Top Executive: Sabrina Pence and Sivi Domango Grades Served: K-8 1456 Gardena Drive Telephone: 504.373.6267 Fax: 504.896.4003 Website: ashecharterschool.org Total Enrollment: 490 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: K-2: 28; 3-8: 29 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Firstline Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: K-2: 14:1; 3-8: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 47

Audubon Charter School

Top Executive: Janice A. Dupuy, Principal/CEO Grades Served: PreK3-8 6101 Chatham Drive Telephone: 504.324.7100 Website: auduboncharter.com Total Enrollment: 810 Year Founded: 2006 as Audubon Charter School Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: none Affiliation: FAME (French and Montessori Education, Inc.) Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 23:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 59

Benjamin Franklin High School

Top Executive: Timothy Rusnak Grades Served: 9-12 2001 Leon C. Simon Drive Telephone: 504.286.2600 Fax: 504.286.2642 Website: benfranklinschool.org Total Enrollment: 794 Year Founded: 1957 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Casual, Appropriate Attire Affiliation: Accredited by SACS; Member of Eastbank Collaborative of Charter Schools; Affiliation with NOCCA Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 46

Benjamin Mays Preparatory School

Top Executive: Shanda Gentry Grades Served: PreK-7 3059 Higgins Boulevard Telephone: 504.613.4171 Fax: 504.613.4111 Website: maysprep.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 23:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Cohen College Prep

Top Executive: Ben Kleban Grades Served: 6-12 3520 Dryades Street Telephone: 504.335.0400 Fax: 504.910.1045 Website: nolacollegeprep.org Total Enrollment: 605 94

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Top Executive: Dr. Doris RocheHicks Grades Served: PreK-12 1617 Caffin Avenue Telephone: 504.940.2243 Fax: 504.940.2276 Website: drkingcharterschool.org Total Enrollment: 767 Year Founded: 2005 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Friends of King Student Mix: Student/Teacher Ratio: 23:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 95

Edgar Harney Elementary/Spirit of Excellence Academy

Top Executive: Eileen T. Williams Grades Served: K-8 2503 Willow Street Telephone: 504.373.6230 Fax: 504.891.6919 Website: soeanola.com Total Enrollment: 373 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 23-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: RSD Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 24:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 40

Edna Karr High School

Top Executive: John Hiser Grades Served: 9-12 3332 Huntlee Drive Telephone: 504.302.7135 Fax: 504.301.2721 Website: ednakarr.org Total Enrollment: 970 Year Founded: 1964 Avg. Class Size: 27 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Algiers Charter Schools Association Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 19:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 95

Einstein Charter School

Top Executive: Ms. Shawn Toranto Grades Served: PreK-8 5100 Cannes Street Telephone: 504.324.7450 Fax: 504.254.4121 Website: einsteincharter.org Total Enrollment: 482 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Diverse Population Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 80

Esperanza Charter School

Top Executive: Ms. Nicole Saulny Grades Served: K-8 4407 South Carrollton Avenue Telephone: 504.373.6272 Fax: 504.488.1813 Website: esperanzano.org Total Enrollment: 462 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Choice Foundation Student Mix: Coed

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Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 53

Fannie C. Williams Charter School

Top Executive: Mrs. Kelly S. Batiste, Principal/CEO; Mrs. Debra Dean, President B.O.D. for C.L.A.S.S. Grades Served: PreK-8 11755 Dwyer Road Telephone: 504.373.6228 Fax: 504.295.2796 Website: fcwcs.org Total Enrollment: 550 Year Founded: RSD est. 20072008; Charter est. 2011-12 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Type 5 RSD Charter, Board of Directors C.L.A.S.S. (Community Leaders Advocating Student Success) Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 38

Hynes Charter School

Top Executive: Michelle Bertram Douglas Grades Served: PreK-8 990 Harrison Avenue Telephone: 504.324.7160 Fax: 504.948.1750 Website: hynesschool.org Total Enrollment: 650 Year Founded: 1952 Converted to Charter in 2006 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 18:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 45

International School of Louisiana

Top Executive: Ms. Sean Wilson CEO/Head of School Grades Served: K-8 1400 Camp Street - Eastbank Campus/502 Olivier Street - Westbank Campus/822 S. Clearview Parkway - Jefferson Parish Campus Telephone: 504.654.1088 Eastbank Campus/504.274.4571 - Westbank Campus/504.934.4875 Jefferson Parish Campus Fax: 504.654.1086 - Eastbank Campus/504.654.1086 Westbank Campus/504.754.7875 - Jefferson Parish Campus Website: www.isl-edu.org Total Enrollment: 1073 Year Founded: 2000 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Eastbank Collaborative of Charter Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: Lower 12:1/Middle - 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 122

James M. Singleton Charter

Top Executive: Douglas Evans, President/CEO; Debra J. Robertson, President Grades Served: PreK-8 2220 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard Telephone: 504.568.3466 Fax: 504.569.3378 Website: dryadesymca.com Total Enrollment: 648 Year Founded: 1999 Avg. Class Size: 20

Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: RSD - Dryades YMCA Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 61

John Dibert Community School

Top Executive: Diana Archuleta Grades Served: PrK4-8 4217 Orleans Avenue Telephone: 504.373.6205 Fax: 504.488.4091 Website: dibertcommunityschool.org Total Enrollment: 496 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Firstline Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 78

Joseph S Clark Preparatory High School (public openenrollment school)

Top Executive: Alex Hochran, Principal Grades Served: 9-12 1301 N. Derbigny Street Telephone: 504.373.6202 Website: clarkprep.org Total Enrollment: 450 Year Founded: 1947, transformed in 2011 Avg. Class Size: 30 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Firstline Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 30:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 43

KIPP Believe College Prep

Top Executive: Adam Meinig Grades Served: 5-8 1607 South Carrollton Avenue Telephone: 504.304.8857 Fax: 504.304.8862 Website: kippneworleans.org Total Enrollment: 401 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 39

KIPP Believe Primary

Top Executive: Rhonda KalifeyAluise, Executive Director Grades Served: K-2 1700 Pratt Drive Telephone: 504.266.2050 Fax: 504.264.9363 Website: kippneworleans.org Total Enrollment: 210 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 25-26 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 24

KIPP Central City Academy

Top Executive: Alex Jarrell Grades Served: 5-8 2514 Third Street Telephone: 504.609.2283 Fax: 504.708.5334 Website: kippneworleans.org Total Enrollment: 403 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc.

Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 39

KIPP Central City Primary

Top Executive: Korbin Johnson Grades Served: K-4 2625 Thalia Street Telephone: 504.373.6290 Fax: 504.302.9737 Website: kippneworleans.org Total Enrollment: 514 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 24 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 43

KIPP McDonogh 15 School for the Creative Arts

Top Executive: Mark Burton, Primary; Deanna Reddick, Middle; Luke Noegle, Middle Grades Served: K-8 721 St. Philip Street/5500 Piety Drive Telephone: 504.592.8520 Fax: 504.592.8515 Website: mcdonogh15.org Total Enrollment: 780 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 85

KIPP New Orleans Leadership Academy

Top Executive: Jared Lamb Grades Served: 5-7 3820 St. Claude Avenue Telephone: 504.373.6256 Fax: 504.322.3924 Website: kippnola.org Total Enrollment: 315 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 26 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 33

KIPP Renaissance High School

Top Executive: Cody Yocum/Jon Robertson Grades Served: 9-11 5316 Michoud Boulevard, Floor 2 Telephone: 504.373.6255 Fax: 504.322.3924 Website: kipprenaissance.org Total Enrollment: 380 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 27 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: KIPP New Orleans Schools, Inc. Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 34

Lafayette Academy

Top Executive: Mickey Landry Grades Served: PreK-8 2727 S. Carrollton Avenue Telephone: 504.861.8370 Fax: 504.861.8369 Website: lafayetteacademyno.org Total Enrollment: 940 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25

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Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Choice Foundation Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 10:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 90

Langston Hughes Academy

Top Executive: Mark Martin, School Director; Jeanyll Morris, Middle School Principal Grades Served: PreK-8 3519 Trafalgar Street Telephone: 504.373.6251 Fax: 504.267.9760 Website: langstonhughesacademy.org Total Enrollment: 645 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 30 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: FirstLine Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Lower; 30:1 - Middle No. of Full Time Faculty: 53

Lake Area New Tech Early College High School

Top Executive: Dr. Michael E. Booker Grades Served: 9-12 6026 Paris Avenue Telephone: 504.267.8833 Website: newbeginningsnola.net Total Enrollment: 670 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: Middle College National Consortium/Woodrow Wilson Foundation Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 38

Lake Forest Elementary School

Top Executive: Mardele Simmons Early Grades Served: PreK Gifted; K-8 12000 Hayne Boulevard Telephone: 504.826.7140 Fax: 504.248.7020 Website: lakeforestcharter.org Total Enrollment: 500 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: PreK Gifted & K - 15/ 1-8 - 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: The Council for Quality Education Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: PreK & K - 15:1; 1-8 - 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 55

Lusher Charter School

Academy of Creative Arts and Sciences Top Executive: Kathleen Hurstell Riedlinger Grades Served: K-12 7315 Willow Street (K-5)/5624 Freret Street (6-12)/5342 St. Charles Avenue (K-1) Telephone: 504.862.5110 (Willow)/504.861.1839 (Freret)/504.648.2444 (St. Charles) Fax: 504.866.4292 (Willow)/504.304.3960 (Freret)/504.648.2468 (St. Charles) Website: lusherschool.org Total Enrollment: 1709 Year Founded: 1918 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Dress Code Affiliation: Public Charter

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Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 175

Martin Behrman Charter

Top Executive: Rene LewisCarter, Principal Grades Served: PreK-8 715 Opelousas Avenue Telephone: 504.302.7090 Fax: 504.309.8174 Website: behrmancharter.org Total Enrollment: 709 Year Founded: 2005 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Algiers Charter Schools Association Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 23:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 65

McDonogh #32 Literacy Academy

Top Executive: Andre Duvoisin Grades Served: K-8 800 DeArmas Street Telephone: 504.302.7144 Fax: 504.363.1057 Website: mcdonogh32.net Total Enrollment: 475 Year Founded: 1952 Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Algiers Charter School Association Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: N/A

McDonogh #43 Elementary Charter School

Top Executive: Fran Trujillo, Head of School Grades Served: PreK-8 1651 North Tonti Street Telephone: 504.942.3544 Fax: 504.942.3697 Website: mcdonogh42-no.org Total Enrollment: 478 Year Founded: Avg. Class Size: 23 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Choice Foundation Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 36

McDonogh City Park Academy

Top Executive: Christine Mitchell, Principal/CEO Grades Served: K-8 2733 Esplanade Avenue Telephone: 504.940.1740 Fax: 504.940.1780 Website: mcpa-no.com Total Enrollment: 423 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: RSD - New Orleans Charter Schools Foundation Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 31

Medard H. Nelson Charter School

Top Executive: Dr. Timothy P. Ryan Grades Served: PreK-8 3121 St. Bernard Avenue Telephone: 504.943.1311 Fax: 504.943.9824 Website: newbeginningsnola.net Total Enrollment: 502 Year Founded: 2005 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: University of New

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Orleans New Beginnings Schools Foundation Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 50

Miller McCoy Academy for Mathematics and Business

Top Executive: Brian Joseph, Prinicpal Grades Served: 5-12 7301 Dwyer Road Telephone: 504.373.6215 Fax: 504.240.3257 Website: millermccoy.org Total Enrollment: 378 Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Male Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 52

Morris Jeff Community School

Top Executive: Patricia Perkins Grades Served: PreK4-5 2239 Poydras Street Telephone: 504.373.6258 Fax: 504.308.3620 Website: morrisjeffschool.org Total Enrollment: 410 Year Founded: 2010 Avg. Class Size: 20-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Type 5 Charter School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 34

New Orleans Charter Science and Mathematics High School

Top Executive: Co-Leaders: Claire Jecklin and Chana Benenson Grades Served: 9-12 5625 Loyola Avenue Telephone: 504.324.7061 Fax: 504.309.4178/504.865.0940 Website: noscihigh.org Total Enrollment: 375 Year Founded: 2006 - Full Day School (1993) Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: N/A No. of Full Time Faculty: 35

New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy

Top Executive: Col. William P. Davis USMC (ret); Dr. Cecilia Garcia, Principal Grades Served: 9-11 2000 Opelousas Avenue, Building H-100 Telephone: 504.227.3810 Fax: 504.875.4326 Website: nomma.net Total Enrollment: 225 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 20 Dress Requirements: Military Uniform/School Uniform Affiliation: Type 2 Charter, Serving entire Metro area Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 26

Pierre A. Capdau UNO Charter School

Top Executive: Jâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Vann Martin, M.Ed. Grades Served: K-8 4621 Canal Street, New Orleans Telephone: 504.872.9257 Fax: 504.484.3487

Website: newbeginningsnola.net Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2004 Avg. Class Size: 20-25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Capital One University of New Orleans Charter Network Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 20:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 35

Pride College Prep

Top Executive: Michael Richard Grades Served: K-5 6701 Curran Boulevard Telephone: 504.400.0614 Fax: 888.711.0754 Website: pridecollegeprep.org Total Enrollment: 325 Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Charter Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 13:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 37

Samuel J Green Charter School (public openenrollment school)

Top Executive: Ava Lee, School Director Grades Served: K-8 2319 Valence Street Telephone: 504.304.3532 Fax: 504.896.4147 Website: greencharterschool.org Total Enrollment: 515 Year Founded: 2006 Avg. Class Size: 28 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Firstline Schools Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 Lower; 28:1 - Middle No. of Full Time Faculty: 42

Sci Academy

Top Executive: Benjamin Marcovitz Grades Served: 9-12 5552 Read Boulevard Telephone: 504.373.6264 Fax: 504.324.0171 Website: sciacademy.org Total Enrollment: 400 Year Founded: 2008 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Recovery School District Charter School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 50

Sophie B. Wright

Top Executive: Sharon Latton Clark Grades Served: 6-12 1426 Napoleon Avenue Telephone: 504.304.3915 Fax: 504.896.4095 Website: sophiebwrightschool. com Total Enrollment: 495 Year Founded: 1910 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Independent Charter Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 60

Success Preparatory Academy at Wicker Top Executive: Niloy Gangopadhyay and St. Claire Adriaan Grades Served: K-6

2011 Bienville Street Telephone: 504.909.6275 Fax: 504.571.6317 Website: successpreparatory.org Total Enrollment: 410 Year Founded: 2009 Avg. Class Size: 22 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 53

Sylvanie Williams College Prep

Top Executive: Ben Kleban Grades Served: K-5 3127 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Telephone: 504.522.0100 Website: sylvaniees.nolacollegeprep.org Total Enrollment: 365 Year Founded: 2007 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: RSD - Charter School Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 53

The NET Charter High School

Top Executive: Elizabeth Ostberg, Principal Grades Served: 9-12 1614 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard Telephone: 504.267.9060 Fax: 504.267.9059 Website: thenetnola.org Total Enrollment: 150 Year Founded: 2011 Avg. Class Size: 15 Dress Requirements: N/A Affiliation: N/A Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 15:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 16

Warren Easton Charter High School

Top Executive: Alexina Medley Grades Served: 9-12 3019 Canal Street Telephone: 504.324.7400 Fax: 504.324.7946 Website: warreneastoncharterhigh.org Total Enrollment: 925 Year Founded: 1913 but as open enrollment charter school in 2006 Avg. Class Size: 25 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Type 3 Charter Orleans Parish School Board Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 25:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 84 SPECIAL NEEDS

St. Michael Special School

Top Executive: Susan Munster 1522 Chippewa Street Telephone: 504.524.7285 Fax: 504.524.5883 Website: stmichaelspecialschool. com Total Enrollment: 1965 Year Founded: 195 Avg. Class Size: 14 Dress Requirements: Uniform Affiliation: Arch. Of New Orleans Student Mix: Coed Student/Teacher Ratio: 14:1 No. of Full Time Faculty: 27

ADVERTISING SECTION

education It is never too soon to be planning for your child’s education, and whether it’s their first year in school or their fifth, familiarizing yourself with the area’s institutional offerings will make for an easy transition and peace of mind for you and your child. From Catholic values and rigorous curriculums to wellrounded arts and athletic programs, there are schools that share your priorities. Private, independent, charter, and co-ed, the following schools run the gamut. See which schools exceed your expectations through an open house or scheduled tour, and you’ll be a step ahead in the planning and/or application process.

Early & Primary School The Archdiocese of New Orleans is home to 85 Catholic elementary and secondary schools in eight civil parishes of South Louisiana. In the Family of Catholic Schools, they constantly strive for schools that are authentically Catholic, excel academically and remain affordable for families. This spring, returning and new student registration will open at all area Catholic elementary schools. Anyone interested in providing a Catholic education for their child is invited to attend one or more of the many elementary school open houses to experience what Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New Orleans are about. For more information about the

Family of Catholic Schools in the New Orleans area, visit or call the Office of Catholic Schools at 866-7916. Find and like them on Facebook at facebook.com/ NewOrleansCatholicSchools. For a strong primary education combined with the unique qualities of an outdoor country environment, check out Arden Cahill Academy, which is nestled on a 12-acre tract of land along Bayou Fatma in Gretna. Not only does the campus provide state-of-the-art classroom learning facilities, but an equestrian arena, stables and petting farm help the school provide unique learning experiences outside of the traditional classroom environment. The school focuses on cultural enrichment as one part of its primary education and tradition of academic excellence. Their 300-seat theater, art studios, music rooms and foreign language programs ensure students’ abilities to excel in the arts, while a football field, competition pool, gymnasium and extra-curricular athletics allow students to excel in physical competition as well. To provide family-friendly support services, Arden Cahill Academy offers before- and after-school care and a specialized Infant Center which accepts children as young as two months. Additionally, during summer months, they offer a 10-week Cahill Camp Corral summer camp program.

For more information on the school, including tours and admission policies, please call 392-0902 or visit their website: ArdenCahillAcademy.com. Audubon Charter School offers two unique programs at one great school for students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Audubon recently received an A letter grade and was named a “Tops Gains” school by the State. The school offers a culturally rich and academically rigorous program that combines French and Montessori curricula with a comprehensive arts curriculum. Audubon’s French program is the only public elementary school program in Louisiana that teaches the French curriculum as accredited by the French government. The Montessori program utilizes specially trained teachers who direct self-motivated learning and exploration based on each child’s individual development. Enrichment programs include Talented in the Visual Arts, Theater and Music, and extracurricular activities include Athletics, Academic Games, Debate, Robotics, Chess and ArtsReach. Audubon’s athletic teams have won numerous championships, and other programs consistently place in national competitions. For more information, visit AudubonCharter.com or contact admissions at 324-7110 or admissions@ auduboncharter.com. myneworleans.com

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Cathedral Montessori School, one of only two non-public BESE-approved Montessori schools in New Orleans, provides an authentic Montessori education with an emphasis on critical thinking, cooperative learning and independent development. Begun with the support of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in 2010, the school reflects the church’s commitment to rebuilding the Lakeview community. Cathedral Montessori offers both preschool and kindergarten curricula with both half-day and full day programs, as well as extended care and afternoon and weekend programs in athletics and the arts. In Cathedral Montessori’s openplan, mixed-age classrooms of 3-6 year olds, logical and abstract thought are stimulated by guided and self-directed use of Montessori-designed learning materials. Students are invited to extend their creativity to outdoor activities, where they interact with and develop an appreciation for their surroundings. The school provides an enriching and challenging educational environment that helps each child develop a love of learning and a respect for self, others and the global community. The school is currently accepting applications for the 2013-2014 school year and will hold an Open House Jan. 26 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 252-4871. The Community Day School (formally known as N.O. Jewish Day School) is a small, independent school for boys and girls in grades kindergarten through fifth. Community Day School educates a diverse student body with the goal of preparing them to be productive and engaged citizens. A place where children master a rigorous academic curriculum while developing a strong ethical foundation, Community Day School small class size allows teachers to give students the individual attention they need to develop academically, intellectually and socially. With an average studentto-teacher ratio of 6 to 1, the school ensures that every child receives the attention they need to be successful. The Head of School, Dr. Bob Berk, currently leads the school into its 17th year. Please feel welcome to visit the school at 3747 W. Esplanade Ave. or call for a personal tour at 887-4091 anytime. Visit the school online at CommunityNola.org. 98

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Ecole Bilingue de la NouvelleOrléans, founded in 1998, is Louisiana’s only private French school that is accredited by the French government and the State of Louisiana. It has been the mission of Ecole Bilingue to provide a strong and distinctive bilingual education for children in New Orleans by combining the best of French and American academics. Ecole Bilingue follows the curriculum of the French Education Nationale, considered to be one of the most rigorous educational systems in the world. The school also offers a rich English Language Arts and American Studies program. Classes are offered for preschool (2 years old) through fifth grade. Class sizes are small, and students are given individualized attention for better learning. Creativity is encouraged in all forms, and classes in the arts, theater and music are a part of the well-rounded curricula. Applications for the 2013-2014 school year open on Jan. 7. For more information on Ecole Bilingue de la Nouvelle-Orléans, please visit EBNola.com. To schedule a tour, call 899-9796 (2 to 3 years) or 896-4500 (4 years through fifth grade).

Established in 1891, Holy Name of Jesus is located in the Uptown area of New Orleans, adjacent to Loyola and Tulane universities. It is a Roman Catholic, co-educational school for grades Pre-kindergarten through seventh. Serving the Greater New Orleans area, the educational philosophy of Holy Name of Jesus School centers on the belief that faith development is integral to their mission and success. The school has flourished under the guidance of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and the Jesuit Fathers for more than 100 years, and the entire community is committed to their mission of teaching children confidence, compassion and integrity while achieving academic excellence and maintaining their Catholic faith. Private tours are available throughout the year by appointment. For more information, call 861-1466 or visit hnjschool.org. Experience the difference at Holy Name of Jesus – Faith, Family, Foundation … for more than 100 years. Named by the Louisiana Department of Education as a School of Exemplary Academic Growth, the International School of Louisiana (ISL) is the first multi-language public school chartered by

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the state and the only Louisiana school named “Charter School of the Year” by the Center for Education Reform. ISL, now in its 12th year of operation, is proud to announce its new campus in Jefferson Parish. Through ISL’s innovative language curriculum, students at ISL Jefferson Parish (ISLJP) will be taught core academic subjects in Spanish and French. In addition, a new Language Intensive Program will be introduced for middle school students with no prior language immersion education. ISL’s unique kindergarten through eighth grade public charter school program, now on three campuses in the Greater New Orleans area, strengthens academic skill through every day conversation and academic instruction in the target language. With faculty and staff from more than 23 different nations, many of whom reflect the history and culture of New Orleans, students at ISL are better prepared to meet the demands of today’s global workforce. Visit isl-edu.org or call 654-1088 for more information and campus locations.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal School is the oldest Episcopal school in New Orleans with 55 years of experience in educating the mind, body and spirit of young children. St. Andrew’s enrolls boys and girls from Pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, offering 10 years of nurturing yet challenging education that focuses on the Decade of Childhood. St. Andrew’s has three full divisions – the KinderCottage (Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten), the Lower School (Grades 1-4) and the Middle School (Grades 5-8). Under the direction of Mason Lecky, Head of School, St. Andrew’s utilizes small classes to promote a challenging learning environment where students interact with teachers and grow spiritually, socially and intellectually. A strong academic program, enhanced by state-of-the-art technology, includes Spanish, Chinese, music, chapel, fine arts, athletics and library skills. Student publications, dramatics, interscholastic sports, and community service round out St. Andrew’s program. Visit the school at their upcoming Open House (Jan. 17 or 24) or call for a personal tour. For further

information, please visit their website: StAndrewsEpiscopalSchool.org St. Paul’s Episcopal School – New Orleans, is a private, coed, independent school for infants through the eighth grade. Founded in 1961, St. Paul’s offers a wide-range of exceptional academic and enrichment programs including: • Advanced and hands-on curriculum • Professional industry-standard media lab • Educating for sustainability, including a NEW outdoor culinary center • Low student/teacher ratio and project-based learning • Full-time Learning Specialist • Foreign language program (Spanish: toddlers – fourth grade; Latin & Spanish: fifth – eighth grades) • Visual arts, music, physical education, outdoor education, technology, Eighth Grade Leadership Program, service learning and more Experience and See What the Talk is About. Visit the Media Production Studio Open House. School Open

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Houses will be held Thursday, Jan. 10, Toddler – eighth grade at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; Thursday, April 4, Toddler – eighth Grade at 9:30 a.m. Private tours are available. For more information, call 488-1319 or visit the website: StPauls-Lakeview.org. Located in Lake Vista, St. Pius X is a co-educational Catholic school for Pre-kindergarten 3 through seventh grade and offers a comprehensive, challenging curriculum in religion, academics, music, art, technology, foreign language and athletics in a loving, faith-filled environment. Founded in 1953, St. Pius X School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and was the only school in New Orleans named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education in 2007. Please visit them online at StPiusXNola. org/school to see how they prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges through words, actions and deeds. Admission Open House is Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday, Jan. 18, 2013, from 9 to 11 a.m. For more information, call 282-2811.

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The mission of the Stuart Hall School community is to live the words of Catholic educator Janet Erskine Stuart, R.S.C.J, “Education is formation, not just information.” Faculty and staff are dedicated to working with parents to help each child build a foundation for a life centered on a love for learning, a desire to help others and a commitment to Gospel values. Stuart Hall School is an independent, family school with a value-based curriculum. Those values upon which the philosophy is based are Faith, Scholarship, Leadership and Honor. Now in its 29th year, Stuart Hall possesses Blue Ribbon School of Excellence status and celebrates the continued success of its graduates in both their careers and personal lives. For more information on Stuart Hall School for Boys, or for a tour of the campus, please call 861-5384 or visit them online at StuartHall.org. The Open House date for 2013 is Jan. 9 at 8:30 a.m. for all grades. Private tours are also available by appointment.

through eighth grade school. Its campus is located in the Garden District and offers a pleasant and stimulating learning environment for students and faculty. Trinity continues in the tradition of its predecessor school, Miss Edith Aiken’s Little School, founded in 1917, and in that of Trinity Episcopal Church, which since its founding in 1847 has maintained a commitment to the educational and civic life of New Orleans. The school motto articulates its mission of “Challenging the Intellect, Nourishing the Spirit, Celebrating Community.” Trinity nurtures a child’s mind, body and spirit through a fun and challenging program that offers the best in the academic disciplines, uses best practices and is taught by a skillful, experienced and loving faculty and staff. For more information or to schedule an individual tour, please visit the website, TrinityNola.com , or call the Admission Office at 525-8661. Open House for grades Pre-kindergarten through eighth takes place Jan. 11 at 8:45 a.m.

Trinity Episcopal School is a co-educational, prekindergarten

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Schools and the National Coalition of Girls Schools. Tuesday Tours for Toddler through fourth grade will be held Jan. 8 from 8:30-11:00 a.m. For more information or to schedule a private tour for any grade, call 269-1213 or visit AshRosary.org.

is a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for girls, toddler through 12th grade. The school is celebrating 125 years on St. Charles Avenue and remains committed to its mission of faith, intellectual excellence, social awareness, the building of community and personal growth. Sacred Heart opened a new Arts and Athletics Complex last year that includes a tournament-size gym, a fitness center, an

indoor running track and a student rehab room. The adjacent Favrot Arts Center has a dance studio, a multimedia center, a music wing for instrumental, choral, and electronic music and an art studio. Sacred Heart is the only area Catholic girls’ school that is a member of the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS), the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the Network of Sacred Heart

Holy Cross School is an independent, Catholic, college preparatory middle and high school, for boys in fifth through 12th grades, founded in 1849 by the Congregation of Holy Cross. Under the guidance of Headmaster Charles J. DiGange ’64, Holy Cross fosters a sense of true community like no other school, embodying the creed “One Family United by the Cross, Our Only Hope.” A Holy Cross education is a process that challenges a young man to learn habits of the mind and habits of the heart, including the competence to see and the courage to act, to think critically, to make informed choices, to take risks and to own the consequences of his actions. While preparing for college, Holy Cross Men get involved in extracurricular activities. With athletics, debate, chess club, robotics and award-

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winning music programs, there is a place for every student to find success. By learning together, our students forge a lasting bond of brotherhood – one that is uniquely Holy Cross. For more information about Holy Cross School, call 942-3100 or visit HolyCrossTigers.com. Founded in 1903, Isidore Newman School is committed to the intellectual, ethical, emotional and physical development of each student. Newman offers a challenging, comprehensive and age-appropriate curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade, one that encourages critical and independent thinking, leadership in academic and extracurricular activities, and provides superior guidance and support for high achieving students and families. They invite you to explore Isidore Newman School by visiting the Web site, newmanschool.org. Open house for the Lower School will be Jan. 15 at 9 a.m. Open House for sixth through 12th grades will be Jan. 17 at 9 a.m. Individual visits are always encouraged and welcome. Apply online or contact the school by calling 896-6323 or visit NewmanSchool.org for more information. The highest performing kindergarten through 12th grade public school in the state, Lusher Charter School, a National Blue Ribbon School in partnership with Tulane University, offers a rigorous interdisciplinary collegefocused curriculum. Lusher students are engaged and challenged through a comprehensive, renowned academics program, which enhances critical, analytical and creative thinking. Serving 1,720 students, Lusher maintains three Uptown campuses, the Lower School on Willow Street and the JCC, and the Middle and High School on Freret Street. Beginning with arts integration in elementary school, Lusher’s arts program culminates with a Certificate of Artistry program for high school students. Students may choose an area of concentration in Humanities/ Communications/Art or Math/Science/ Engineering/Technology. Additionally, a Writing Across the Curriculum writing lab, Learning Resource Center and stateof-the art science laboratories support academic excellence. Qualifying juniors and seniors benefit from Lusher’s partnership with Tulane University by 102

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earning college credit at Tulane. Lusher’s numerous extracurricular offerings include 27 sports teams that operate with the strong support of Drew Brees, evidenced by Brees Family Field, the new campus football field. For more information visit LusherSchool.org or call 862-5110 (Lower School) or 304-3960 (Middle/High School). Founded in 1929, Metairie Park Country Day School firmly believes that today’s world demands more than a traditional education; it demands 21st century skills. Country Day offers an innovative, hands-on approach that teaches Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade students how to think creatively and independently as they tackle a challenging curriculum. Their high academic standards and expectations of personal accountability are sustained by a nurturing community, a low studentto-teacher ratio, robust athletics and outstanding creative arts programs. Country Day faculty and staff focus on the student as an individual to ensure that every child’s experience is exceptional. Explore Country Day’s distinctive programs at their Admission Open Houses or call or e-mail admissions@ mpcds.com for a private tour, offered five days a week. A kindergarten through fifth grade Admission Open House will be held Thursday, Jan. 10, followed by a Middle and Upper School Admission Open House Thursday, Jan. 24. Visit mpcds.com for more information. St. Martin’s Episcopal School provides a challenging, collegepreparatory education focused on development of the whole child. Students age 18 months through 12th grade learn within a Christian community, a family atmosphere and a coeducational environment. St. Martin’s students are intellectually curious, motivated and have an authentic desire to serve others. Our faculty members are experienced and caring. They understand that all children learn differently and that it is their responsibility to create learning experiences that tap into each child’s unique interest and diverse curiosities. St. Martin’s invites you to visit their campus and take a personal tour with a member of the Admissions office so that you can see for yourself how they prepare students for success in college

and in life through faith, scholarship and service. An All School Open house (age 18 months through 12th grade) is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 16 at 9 a.m. For more information, please call 733-9917 or visit St. Martin’s online at stmsaints.com. Ursuline Academy, founded in 1727, enjoys the distinction of being both the oldest school for girls and the oldest Catholic school in the U.S. Ursuline Academy provides a broad, challenging and contemporary curriculum in a nurturing environment from early childhood (Toddler-2) through a college preparatory secondary program (12th grade). Ursuline fosters spiritual formation, academic excellence and a life-long commitment to Serviam: I will serve. The Academy values the uniqueness of the individual, develops the whole person and cultivates leaders of confidence and compassion. Elementary School Tours (Toddler-2 through seventh grade) are offered every Wednesday in January (beginning Jan. 9) at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. For more information or to schedule a private tour, contact the Office of Admissions at 866-5292 or admissions@ ursulineneworleans.org or visit UrsulineNewOrleans.org.

High Schools Archbishop Chapelle High School offers the academically challenging and technology-rich college preparatory curriculum one would expect from a nationally recognized educational institution, but their top priority is the religious education and spiritual development of students. Students are challenged to deepen their faith and advance in the wisdom and truths of Catholicism through religion classes, liturgies, class-level retreats and ministry programs. Chapelle’s exciting 1-to-1 computing initiative has transformed the learning process, giving students the freedom to learn wherever and whenever they want via the use of an iPad2, which inspires creativity and encourages hands-on learning. The use of iBooks and apps in every subject and level of instruction help personalize instruction and enable students to not only succeed but to become leaders of tomorrow as they learn to compete in the ever-growing global, information-based economy.

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Additionally, extracurricular activities at Chapelle encompass a vast range of student interests in athletics, fine arts, academics and service. For more information on Chapelle’s academic programs, initiative and activities, visit ArchbishopChapelle.org. Archbishop Shaw High School, celebrating completion of its 50th academic year, offers excellence in Catholic education to the young men of the West Bank. Founded in 1962 and administered by the Salesians of St. John Bosco, the school offers a comprehensive religious and ministry program, challenging academics and award-winning sports and activities at its spacious 72-acre campus, conveniently located off the Westbank Expressway in Marrero. Its course offerings are college-preparatory and go beyond state minimums. Eligible students can also take Advanced Placement and college-credit courses. Seven Salesian priests and brothers live on campus, including the school’s director, principal, youth ministry coordinator and technology coordinator. These men animate the school with a spirit of reason, religion and lovingkindness according to the educational methods of St. John Bosco. Archbishop Shaw has a distinct family atmosphere where students feel comfortable and welcome. In accordance with Salesian

philosophy, the educational program is committed to the development of the total person: spiritual, academic, social, moral and physical. For more information, visit ArchbishopShaw.org or call 340-6727. Brother Martin High School, operated by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, began its 144th year with young men in seventh through 12th grades. Located at 4401 Elysian Fields Ave. in the Gentilly/Lakefront section of New Orleans, Brother Martin challenges its students to define their lives with Courage and Confidence. Brother Martin is committed to holistic education with a focus on personal attention, academic excellence and strong character formation. A District 9-5A school, Brother Martin offers a full range of athletic teams at the seventh, eighth, ninth, JV and Varsity levels, and students can choose from more than 80 extracurricular activities. Permeated with the tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, Brother Martin offers young men the opportunity to make positive contributions to their world. To quote their name sake, Brother Martin Hernandez, S.C., (1904 -1991), “For more information, visit BrotherMartin.com.

De La Salle High School in Uptown New Orleans is a private, Catholic co-educational high school for eighth through 12th grades. The school is rooted in the 350-year old Lasallian heritage and the tradition of the Christian Brothers of transforming lives by teaching minds and touching hearts. Innovative technology and curriculum development, excellent standards of quality teaching and diverse extracurricular activities help students achieve their potential both in and out of the classroom. De La Salle exceeds the Louisiana TOPS requirements and offers numerous AP classes in which Cavaliers have consistently topped both state and global scores, earning them acceptance in colleges and universities across the country. The Academic Games team, Math team, Speech team and the (yearbook) have won multiple state and national championships. The Cavalette dance team, Chess Club, Junior Classical League and Cheerleaders have also earned state and national awards. Likewise, the sports teams of cross country, football, volleyball, swimming, wrestling, basketball, soccer, tennis, softball, baseball and track have taken district and state titles. For more information, visit DeLaSalleNola.com. For a spend-a-day, contact Admissions Director Mr. Francis Moises at 895-5717, ext. 141. myneworleans.com

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Mount Carmel Academy, a fourtime Top 50 Catholic High School in the U.S., 2012 Catholic Schools for Tomorrow Innovations in Total Community Involvement recipient, and twice-recognized Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, is a secondary school for girls, eighth through 12th grades, conducted by the Sisters of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The school’s mission is to provide young women the opportunity to develop their God-given talents through academic excellence and co-curricular programs and empower them to develop zeal for their faith with a commitment to prayer and service. For more information, visit mcacubs.com, contact the Office of Admissions, 288-7626, Ext. 229, or e-mail admissions@mcacubs.org. For more than 150 years, St. Mary’s Dominican High School, sponsored by the Dominican Sisters of Peace, has been an outstanding Catholic educational institution for young women in New Orleans. Additionally, Dominican is a place for strong leaders, dedicated servers and curious learners. Dominican students reach the highest level of academic achievement, grow in their faith, make lifelong friendships and experience the power of service to others. St. Mary’s Dominican High School prepares young women for college, builds self-confidence in its students and sets them on a path for lifelong success. Dominican offers a five-year studies program in eighth through 12th grades, and a four-year studies program in ninth through 12th grades. For more information about our school and our spring Spend-a-Day program, please visit StMarysDominican.org or call the Recruitment Director at 865-9401 extension 4127. Discover the legacy of St. Mary’s Dominican High School. Founded in 1903 by the Benedictine Sisters, St. Scholastica Academy (SSA) is a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence for young women in eighth through 12th grades. Located on the Northshore in Covington, Louisiana, SSA strives to provide learning experiences that are student-centered, innovative, creative, hands-on and interactive. Excellence in education, coupled with the spiritual and personal growth and development of the young 104

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women they serve is the hallmark of St. Scholastica’s ministry. They are committed to establishing a Christ-centered environment that promotes care, concern and confidence in the minds and hearts of students while simultaneously providing the latest in technological advancements and tools for today’s learning. The Academy’s college preparatory curriculum, when combined with the Benedictine tradition of prayer, work, study and community, prepares students for success in a college environment and beyond. SSA invites you to learn more about their 109-year tradition of sisterhood and join them in the accomplishment of their scholastic and spiritual goals. To learn more, visit ssacad.com or call 985-892-2540 ext. 132.

Undergraduate & Graduate The University of New Orleans is a premier urban research institution generating a $1 billion economic impact in Louisiana. For more than 50 years, UNO has been one of the city’s foremost public resources, offering a diverse set of world-class, research-based programs, advancing shared knowledge and adding to the city’s industry, culture and economy. Since 1958, the University has graduated more than 75,000 alumni, many of whom continue to live and work in the state. Louisiana’s most economically and ethnically diverse public university, UNO has educated students from all 64 Louisiana parishes, all 50 states and more than 100 countries. Their five

colleges and interdisciplinary studies program boast 50 undergraduate and pre-professional programs and more than 40 graduate programs. recently named UNO one of the nation’s “Most Affordable Colleges” and ranks UNO among national universities whose students graduate with the least debt. For more information, visit uno.edu.

Test Prep Prepping for an exam is as important as its results, which can affect one’s acceptance into college as well as possible scholarships and other financing. The Princeton Review offers area students a vast array of prep options, ranging from private tutoring and small group instruction to self-guided online courses and the LiveOnline Classroom. The Princeton Review’s SAT, ACT and PSAT programs provide students with a personal prep experience that fits their unique learning style, schedule and budget. Find the option that works best for your future graduate. Program components vary and include several hours of in-class instruction, practice tests, personalized feedback, interactive multimedia lessons and more. For more information on prep possibilities, visit PrincetonReview. com or call 800-2Review (800-273-8439). Find out if your student will make the grade with a free practice test at PrincetonReview.com/FreePracticeTest. In addition to prep programs, a complete line of prep books for SAT and ACT are also available at PrincetonReview.com/Bookstore.

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Dining & Imbibing in New Orleans While locals have the luxury of picking any famous or famously hole-in-the-wall New Orleans restaurant any given day, visitors to the city have to carefully pick and choose where to spend their time. With so many astounding options, it just doesn’t seem fair. Whether you’re deciding on a location for your business lunch, romantic dinner or boozy brunch, the city has a dining spot for you. Let your appetite take the reins on this one. Just review these local favorites, and you’ll be enjoying a memorable, mouthwatering meal in no time. For nearly a decade, Austin’s Restaurant has been known as Metairie’s hot spot for steak, seafood and the Creole-Italian creations of Restaurateur Ed McIntyre and his esteemed culinary staff. Garnering awards and accolades from critics and readers alike, Austin’s Restaurant was 106

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named as the Readers’ Choice for Best Restaurant in Metairie and as one of the Top Three Steakhouses in the City this year by The Times-Picayune. Last year, readers of New Orleans Magazine named Austin’s “Favorite Steak House” and voted founder Ed McIntyre as a “New Orleanian of the Year” in 2010. Austin’s impressive menu includes signature appetizers, soups and salads such as the popular Austin’s New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and Austin’s Chopped Salad as well as the finest aged USDA steaks and savory Creole-Italian entrees of seafood, veal, duck and pork. Austin’s is located at 5101 W. Esplanade in Metairie. For more information or to make reservations, call 888-5533. Visit Austin’s online at AustinsNO.com. Private party rooms and catering are available. For more casual fare, McIntyre also oversees Mr. Ed’s Restaurant and Cheeseburger Eddie’s.

Five Happiness, New Orleans’ award-winning Chinese restaurant, offers a delicious menu of Sichuan and Hunan specialties in a newly renovated sleek and elegant dining room. Enjoy the succulent shrimp with honey roasted pecans, General’s Chicken or asparagus sautéed with garlic sauce in a comfortable and unique setting distinguished by its authentic Chinese décor of etched glass and Chinese paintings. The dining room, now split into three rooms, provides a more private dining experience for guests. The well-known and affordable Imperial Room is available at Five Happiness for private parties, receptions or other functions and can hold from 50-150 people. Serving options are customized for each party, ranging from sit-down dinners to buffets or cocktails with hors d’oeuvres and prices ranging from $20-$45 per person. For more information, call 482-3935 or visit FiveHappiness.com. The contagiously delicious and fresh menu of the The Ruby Slipper Cafe continues to spread flavor across New Orleans as the popular eatery recently opened its third and newest location in the Marigny Triangle in the historic Canal Bank & Trust building. Already present in Mid-City and Downtown, The Ruby Slipper is known for adding New Orleans flair to traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch menus. Specialty cocktails such as the Ruby Slipper Mimosa and house-made Bloody Mary are perfect complements to favorites such as the seasonal Ruby’s Crabcake Breakfast, and House Specialties Eggs Cochon or the BBQ Shrimp & Grits. Committed to the environment and to supporting local business, the Marigny location will feature a rooftop aquaponic garden, growing an array of fresh herbs for all three establishments in addition to continuing the recycling and composting projects already underway at each location. Visit the Ruby Slipper online at TheRubySlipperCafe.net and find all three locations on Facebook. Dine in Mid-City at 139 S. Cortez, in Downtown at 200 Magazine St. and in the Marigny at 2001 Burgundy St. For more than 170 years, Antoine’s Restaurant has been making history in the heart of the French Quarter, serving French-Creole cuisine with excellent service in an inviting comfortable

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setting. With 14 unique dining rooms, each offering its own historical charm, it’s no wonder Antoine’s has served guests such as General Patton, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, President Roosevelt and more. In 2013, Antoine’s is offering the $20.13 Lunch Special throughout the month of January for parties of 15 or less. Perhaps start with the Creole Gumbo or the sweet and savory Noel Salad before delighting yourself with Duck a L’Orange or the Cardinal Fish du Jour entrees. Perhaps you’d rather try the Oysters 1-1-1 appetizer or the Chicken Panée entrée, which is served with a twice-baked potato and red wine mushroom sauce. For dessert, enjoy the Eggnog Bread Pudding, Classic Cheesecake with Peach and Berry Sauce or a Meringue Glace with Chocolate Sauce. Twenty-five cent martinis are featured daily. Enjoy happy hour at the Hermes bar daily from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more info or reservations, visit Antoines.com or call 581-4422. Amazing history, elegant old-world ambiance and delectable Creole cuisine come together at The Court of Two Sisters in the French Quarter. Located at 613 Royal St., this old line New Orleans restaurant is where locals and visitors from around the world come to enjoy traditional Creole specialties in the largest courtyard in the French Quarter. Dinner is a romantic, memorable occasion where entrees include Louisiana Shrimp & Grits, Veal Oscar, and Char-Broiled Tenderloin of Beef. Guests are served under flickering gaslights in the courtyard or in one of three elegant dining rooms. During the day, the Jazz Brunch Buffet provides a lavish display of hot and cold dishes while a jazz trio plays Dixieland favorites. Additionally, the restaurant is available to host special events. From bridal showers to rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions, the Court of Two Sisters provides a beautiful setting, delicious New Orleans cuisine and impeccable service. Open seven days a week, the Jazz Brunch Buffet is served from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and their à la carte Creole Dinners are served nightly from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended. For more information, visit CourtOfTwoSisters.com or call 522-7261.

Gear up for the big game with savings from Martin Wine Cellar. Save on your favorite wines and spirits every two weeks leading up to the Super Bowl. Visit MartinWine.com for the latest cellar savings, especially if you’re planning a party. Special football catering packages of all sizes bring the party to you with dishes such as Red Beans and Rice, Jambalaya, Boudin Balls, Chicken Tenders, Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip and other tasty tailgate options. Well-traveled experts at Martin Wine Cellar are always available to help you pick your game day wines and spirits, such as a great selection of inexpensive magnums (1.5L), including Canyon Oaks Cabernet and Chardonnay from California or La Vieille Ferme Côtes du Ventoux Rouge and La Vieille Ferme Côtes du Luberon Blanc, starting as low as $10.99. Cypress Cabernet and Cypress Chardonnay also make great game day picks at only $8.99. More than 70 single-malt Scotches and Small Batch Bourbons are perfect for the sippers in the group, and beer lovers enjoy the ability to mix and match a six-pack with a complimentary coozie (while supplies last). For food and drink selections, visit MartinWine.com. New Orleans is a city well-known for its charm, storied history and quirkiness, and there are few better examples than the Rivershack Tavern. Located directly across the Mississippi River levee on River Road, this Old Jefferson venue has stood as a neighborhood tavern, sports bar, smalltown restaurant and live music honkytonk for decades. As seen on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” the ‘Shack is a cornucopia of local memorabilia, old New Orleans fables and of course the bar stools, whose legs are characters like the Diver, the Golfer and the Biker, to name a few. None of these wacky accoutrements however, can outweigh the serious yet fun cuisine the kitchen churns out daily, with specials like house-smoked “porko-bucco’’ on stone-cut grits and braised “wascally wabbit” with dumplings. Not to be outshined are great burgers, the freshest breaded-to-order seafood, and a variety of po-boys. Owner Donnie Thomas and Chef Mike Baskind have made sure to keep both locals and

visitors pouring through the door. Join them. Visit TheRivershackTavern.com. Recently recognized by USA Today’s “10 Great Places” series, The Delachaise is no doubt one of the best bars in New Orleans for wine and food. With an extensive offering of wines by the glass or bottle and beers from around the world, The Delachaise offers an unparalleled imbibing experience in a warm, friendly atmosphere and outside on the beautiful outdoor patio on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line. Six-year, veteran Chef Robert Tsarov offers daily specials of small plates and entrees such as Manchego Gnocchi with pork ragu, Grilled Jamaican Jerk Porkchop with curried red beans and basmati rice and Foie Gras with caramelized apple & oyster mushroom. Five-dollar wine specials are offered daily along with specialty cocktails, and appetizers such as Pommes Frites (fried in goose fat), olives and cheese plates are bar favorites. Positively reviewed and recommended by Conde Nast, Yelp users, New York Magazine, New Orleans Magazine, Zagat, and Wine & Spirits, The Delachaise is a favorite wine destination of locals and visitors alike. Open daily from 5 p.m.-‘til, The Delachaise offers late night dining every night. For additional information, call 895-0858 or visit TheDelachaise.com. A restaurant as revered as Arnaud’s has an original way of doing things. Recognizing the magnetism of Classic Creole Cuisine, Arnaud’s serves the true classics with something on the menu to appeal to all. Open for 95 years, Arnaud’s continues to carry on the traditions that make the restaurant unique and like no other. Carnival season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than like royalty? Every meal is a celebration at Arnaud’s, and with their own Mardi Gras museum, 12 splendid dining rooms, and Bourbon Street balconies, you’ll find yourself celebrating in the center of all the action. Known for their critically acclaimed food, ambiance and service, Arnaud’s ensures a memorable and authentic carnival season dining experience. For more information or to make reservations, call 523-5433 or visit ArnaudsRestaurant.com.

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Shopping in New Orleans New Orleans is known for its worldclass shopping, and while Magazine Street and the French Quarter are definite hot spots, they’re not the only ones. When planning your shopping experience, make sure to expand your Uptown circle to include Prytania, Freret and the Riverbend, and in addition to sauntering the streets of the French Quarter, plan a trip over to the Northshore for some small town boutique service. No matter your style or budget, you’ll find more than meets the eye at these stylishly on- and offthe-beaten path destinations. Since 2005, the Northshore has been home to a locally owned and nationally known boutique that has rescued women from years of discomfort and misguided purchases. Bra Genie, the creation of bra-fitting expert Jeannie Emory, has grown from a one-on-one home fitting service to a full-scale Mandeville store with a staff of 13 108

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experienced fitters and an inventory of more than 10,000 bras and accessories. With the largest inventory in the south, Bra Genie stocks bras ranging from 28-48 in bands and AA-KK in cup size with prices as low as $30. The results of a Bra Genie fitting often surprise women. Effective bras can eliminate back or neck pain in some cases, and they can also work magic in the sexy, slimming department by elongating the torso and lifting the breasts. Open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and located at 2881 Highway 190, Bra Genie welcomes walkins, though there may be a brief wait since each personalized fitting can take about 30 minutes. For more information on Bra Genie, visit TheBraGenie.com or call 985-951-8638 to schedule an appointment. Welcome to New Orleans, Super Bowl visitors. Mignon for Children has been an iconic presence in New Orleans

for more than 50 years, offering fine infant and children’s apparel as well as a large selection of toys, books, music, costumes, gifts and unique New Orleans items for the discerning customer looking for the unusual. Let your children join in the celebration of Carnival with their exclusive new “Throw Me Something” long-sleeve tee as well as capes and costumes for Mardi Gras and year-round play. Also remember that Mignon always has great Saints merchandise for young Who Dats. Keep in mind that beautiful spring and summer merchandise arrives daily, and Easter is just around the corner. For additional information, please call 504-891-2374, visit Mignon in The Rink at the corner of Prytania and Washington Avenue in the Garden District Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. E-mail mignonchildren@aol.com now to sign up for their e-newsletter.

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To discover truly unique designs available nowhere else in the world, sneak down to the The Shops at Canal Place and visit Saint Germain. Acclaimed designer, Donald J Pliner plays tourist himself in New Orleans, visiting every year to make a personal appearance in the only independent store in the nation that exclusively carries his line of shoes. In addition to Pliner’s award-winning shoes and handbags, Saint Germain carries fine jewelry from designers that have developed quite a following in New Orleans. Be sure to check out the French hair accessories and even more handbags by designers from all over the world. For more than 30 years, owner Faye Cannon has brought the best in fashionable shoes and accessories to New Orleans. She is known for catering to each customer’s individual style and desire. Fearless, passionate and knowledgeable, Cannon keeps both locals and international customers coming back to see what’s new at Saint Germain. To see the latest designs or for more information, visit saintgermainneworleans.com or call 504 522-1720.

more information, visit Facebook.com/ TSTENewOrleans or call 504-598-5689. A world of flavor awaits.

Experience the old world feel of shopping in the French Quarter, and you’ll encounter everything from antiques, art, jewelry and designer wear in quaint boutiques to the fresh produce and bargain trinkets in the bustling French Market. While wandering this historical neighborhood, stop in to 521 St. Louis St. and experience the aromatic wonderland that is The Spice & Tea Exchange of New Orleans. A culinary heaven of fine, savory, traditional and exotic spices and blends, gourmet teas, flavored sugars, salts, seasonings and accessories, The Spice & Tea Exchange delights the senses and tingles the soul. Distinctive, high-quality products contribute to this self-described “sensory utopia” that allows guests free smells of any jar in the store. Owner Robin Reynolds hand makes 67 Custom Blends of seasonings and rubs on site for superb freshness, and occasionally guests may sample food and drink made with these unique spice creations. Everything is sold by the ounce so guests can pick up as little as they need for one dish or as much as will fit in their cabinets. For

When Symmetry Jewelers was founded in 1975, it was a gallery ahead of its time, returning jewelry to its rightful place among the art forms. Today, tucked away in the heart of the Riverbend, this small, family-owned jewelry store is the keeper of a lost art: original, handmade yet affordable pieces that combine unsurpassed craftsmanship with the freedom of creativity. To experience Symmetry’s longstanding tradition of the nontraditional, one only has to browse the welcoming showroom, a refreshing change from the norm that features local, national and international collections as well as a charming array of estate pieces. Even more rare than its atmosphere, however, is the custom work of in-house artist, designer and master hand engraver Tom Mathis, a true pioneer in his craft, who continues to accommodate the imaginations of those who live in, around and far from a city that will not be tamed. Start your own tradition at symmetryjewelers.com or by calling 504861-9925 or 800-628-3711. It’s safe to say that M’Adele Irvin

Discover The New Freret. Visit Uptown’s trendy new shops, restaurants, bars and more on eight historic blocks spanning Jefferson Avenue to Napoleon Avenue. The Freret Street Market takes place on the first Saturday of every month, September through June, and features local handmade crafts, art, food and live music at the intersection of Freret and Jena streets. There is always plenty of free parking and amazing taxfree artwork. Enjoy shopping, dining and dancing with the locals. Visit the The New Freret online at TheNewFreret.com for an extensive list of the diverse businesses, which include DuMois Gallery, Crescent City Comics, Freret Hardware, Bright Eyes Optique, Bloomin’ Deals, The Bike Shop, Pure Cake, The Beauty Lab and Spa Savior Faire. They’ve come together on Freret Street and would love it if you joined. The area is conveniently located on the Freret bus line and walk-able from the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line.

knows invitations. Since 1991, the owner of RSVP Stationers has assisted thousands of locals with literal first impressions, the words and designs notifying you of your personal invitation to a special occasion. “I look around, and I see paper, paper and more paper. Every kind of paper,” says Irvin, whose Magazine Street shop stocks classic and artful designs by Crane, William Arthur and others. From weddings and showers to birthdays, graduations, sporting events and holiday parties, RSVP Stationers leaves no event untouched. In addition to invitations and stationery, they also custom order napkins and cups for events of any kind. RSVP Stationers stocks a vast selection of regional and local designs, everything from famous restaurants to images of streetcars, fleurs de lis and St. Louis Cathedral. According to Irvin, a typical turnaround time for custom orders is two to three days. RSVP Stationers is located at 4306 Magazine St. along with The Occasional Wife. Hours are 11 a.m.6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and by appointment. Visit them online at RSVPStationers.com. Whether you are vacationing in New Orleans or a local playing tourist in your own town, be sure to visit the designers at Fleur d’ Orleans at 3701-A Magazine St. Open daily, Fleur d’ Orleans has designed more than 150 different pieces of sterling silver jewelry, all of it inspired by art and architectural designs found around the city, which allows you many ways to celebrate and share the design heritage of New Orleans. Whether you need handmade sterling silver earrings, brooches or pendants, semi precious jewels set in sterling, beautiful wood blocked textiles, ikat-dyed scarves, napkins, fine crystal glasses handcarved with fleurs, or a unique Mardi Gras gift, you will find a rich array of designs at Fleur d’ Orleans. Fleur d’ Orleans designs are exclusive to their shop and can’t be found anywhere else. Visit the charming and bustling Magazine Street for a genuine New Orleans shopping experience. You can also view their exclusive designs online and order with free shipping from their Web site, fleurdorleans.com. For more information and hours, call 504-899-5585.

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Grocery/Markets In Louisiana, we love to talk about food, and Rouses Markets has been a part of the local conversation since 1960, when Anthony J. Rouse opened his first grocery store in Houma, Louisiana. A commitment to buying from local farmers, fishermen and manufacturers helped Mr. Anthony expand his business, which today includes 38 stores in two states. The family-owned company continues its legacy into the second and third generations. The best fresh, local ingredients are one reason why the chefs from Commander’s Palace, Arnaud’s, Antoine’s and your favorite neighborhood restaurants shop at Rouses for their families. Rouses’ own quality products are another reason. Rouses’ butchers still craft small batch Cajun specialties right in their stores. Rouses’ cooks still use Rouses’ time-honored South Louisiana recipes. And Rouses’ bakers still make Louisiana favorites like doberge cake and tarte-a-la-bouillie pie. It is that commitment to buying and serving local that has helped Rouses grow into one of the largest independent grocers in the U.S., with 38 stores in two states. For more information on Rouses’ quality foods and store locations, visit rouses.com.

Local/Regional Travel & Entertainment

New Orleans Lagniappe Meaning “a little something extra,” lagniappe is what distinguishes southern hospitality from plain ol’ hospitality. Visitors and locals can expect these regional entities to go the extra mile in providing services of all kinds, from walking Fido or delivering world class medical care, to providing a true South Louisiana experience with a swamp or plantation tour. In addition to the famous dining and shopping many New Orleans visitors are scoping for great food and entertainment, make sure to review this list of helpful lagniappe services and unique experiences locals are already enjoying.

Pet Care Do you have puppies or an older dog? Perhaps a cat, bird or an iguana? When you go to work, travel for vacation, or want to sleep in after a late night, who takes care of your furry, feathery and scaly family? Camp Bow Wow’s Home Buddies caregivers are bonded, insured and the best trained in the industry. They are pet CPR and first-aid certified, and have been trained/ tested in many areas of pet care. They’ll even go to most hotels for dog walks and sits. Ideally located between Uptown and the French Quarter, Home Buddies by Camp Bow Wow is conveniently accessed by both locals and tourists alike. Call Home Buddies by Camp Bow Wow at 891-DOGS (3647) or stop by 2731 Tchoupitoulas to take a free tour, meet the friendly staff, and schedule your dog’s free first day or home consultation. Your pet will be dog-gone happy you did. Go online and check out their Webcams at CampBowWow.com/ NewOrleans. Download the iPhone app, too.

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This January and February, ring in the carnival season, Mardi Gras, in beautiful Bayou Lafourche, a several-time recipient of the Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event designation. Mardi Gras on Bayou Lafourche features more than 15 parades, carnival balls, tableaus and parties that bring thousands to this Southeast Louisiana area. Family-oriented festivities abound in Lafourche communities beginning three weekends prior to Fat Tuesday, as well as on the day itself. In Cajun tradition, families gather in their front yards along the parade routes to barbecue, boil seafood, eat, socialize and enjoy the parades. This is also a great time of year to venture outdoors and see Louisiana’s unique wetlands on one of the area’s many available swamp tours, or learn about the area’s history at the Jean Lafitte National Park Wetlands Acadian Culture Center. Go back in time during a visit to any of the nearby historic plantation homes. Find endless events and attractions at VisitLafourche.com and experience all Lafourche has to offer. Ever wanted to play in the NFL? Throw a game-winning touchdown or kick a 30-yard field goal? Fans of all ages can see what it takes at The NFL Experience, coming to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center from Jan. 30-Feb. 3. Professional football’s interactive theme park of more than 75 games, exhibits and attractions will take over New Orleans with five days of football frenzy and fun. Fans of all ages can throw, run, catch and kick like real NFL players. Free autographs from the pros will be available, and the Vince Lombardi Trophy and all 46 Super Bowl rings will be on display. Kids ages 6-12 can participate in youth football clinics with NFL Players, and all visitors can tour the Locker Room for NFL Coaches Chats, Football 101 and the NFL Command Center with an NFL referee. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and under. For tickets to The NFL Experience, call (866) TIX–4NFL (849-4635) or log onto SuperBowl.com.

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Medical Resources & News In 2012, West Jefferson Medical Center, located just 10 minutes from downtown New Orleans, opened its new Cancer Center. Part of the Academic Community Cancer Program at West Jefferson and accredited with commendation by the Commission on Cancer, the new Center features an 8,000-square foot Infusion Center in a home-like setting to accommodate patients and their loved ones. Complimentary parking can be found just steps from the new entrance. Support for the new Cancer Center from the business community and civic leaders has been outstanding. If you’d like to sponsor wall space in the beautiful new Center, call 349-2051 to discuss the opportunities or to arrange a guided tour of the new facility. In addition, adding to the convenience of the new Center, medical oncologists are located in an expanded office suite also in the West Jefferson Medical Plaza at Medical Center Boulevard and the West Bank Expressway. The Touro Infirmary Neuro Rehabilitation Center is the only facility in New Orleans with a comprehensive LSVT Loud™ and LSVT Big™ program for treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The staff includes LSVT certified speech, physical and occupational therapists. LSVT™ focuses on using parallel behavior to retrain the nerves. LSVT therapy uses innovative and clinically proven methods for improving communication and movement in individuals with Parkinson’s diseases, with application to other neural conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Therapists focus on “Loud” and “Big” respectively when performing speech, physical and occupational therapy to maximize attention to the task at hand and increase automaticity. LSVT Loud™ is a Parkinson’s-specific speech therapy designed to improve vocal loudness, speech intelligibility and facial expression through the same premise of intensity and repetition. LSVT Big™ is a technique used by certified physical or occupational therapists to drive intense and higheffort practice and teach the amount of effort required to produce normal movements. For more information about these programs, contact the Touro Rehabilitation Department at 897-8557 or touro.com/LSVT. Children’s Hospital is Louisiana’s only full-service hospital exclusively for children age birth to 21. A not-for-profit facility, it is governed by an independent board of trustees made up of community volunteers. Children’s Hospital treats patients in more than 40 specialties, including life-threatening illnesses, routine childhood sicknesses and preventive care. Children’s Hospital’s medical team is trained to care for the unique health care needs of children - children needing more time, care and specialized medications and technology than adults. Critical care is provided in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU). The hospital’s Jack M. Weiss Emergency Care Center is staffed around the clock by board-certified pediatricians, with the availability of a full range of pediatric specialists. Outpatient appointments with pediatric specialists are offered on the hospital campus and satellite locations in Metairie, Baton Rouge and Lafayette. For more information, visit chnola.org. myneworleans.com

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Three Days in NOLA:

Suggestions for a True New Orleans Experience

No matter your reason for visiting New Orleans, we’re jazzed you’re here. After the Super Bowl, your conference, or your family visit, take some time to explore the city and live like a local. Make the best of your stay with this three-day guide to New Orleans – where to stay, eat, relax and play.

Where to Stay:

Fifth generation family-owned and operated, the historic Hotel Monteleone has provided gracious service for more than 125 years. Located in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter on famed Royal Street, the Hotel Monteleone boasts 600 luxurious guest rooms, all of which offer the modern amenities guests desire while preserving traditional values. Each beautifully decorated guest room includes a Keurig coffee brewer, in-room safe, refrigerator, high-speed internet access (additional fees apply), large high-definition LCD television, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, plush robes, clock radios (iHome alarm clock devices suitable for charging iPad, iPhone and iPod) and marble and granite bathrooms. Hotel Monteleone features the new Criollo Restaurant and the recently expanded famous Carousel Bar & Lounge. Additional hotel outlets include a heated rooftop swimming pool and 24/7 exercise facility, Spa Aria, on-site business center, wireless internet access, valet parking and 25,000 square feet of recently renovated, state-of-the-art meeting space. The Monteleone is also a featured pet-friendly hotel and is designated a AAA Four-Diamond property. Visit HotelMonteleone.com for more information and reservations.

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Garber’s career in the cab industry has since blossomed into Carriage Cab Company, a four-fleet luxury cab service operating in New York City, Moscow, Chicago and now New Orleans. New Orleans Carriage Cab prides itself on being the premier choice for both residents and visitors. With a proven record of success, Garber is committed to providing modern, clean cars and a superb experience for riders at no extra cost. Implementing the latest technology in his brand new fleet of elegant, dark maroon, leather-lined, roomy taxis, Garber is also working to transform his entire fleet into hybrid, hightech cabs. Not only can riders expect a limousine-like, smooth ride, they also receive efficient and timely service thanks to each taxi’s integrated GPS vehicle locator system, unprecedented tools for dispatchers and the best-informed drivers available. Standard credit cards and Smart Cards are accepted. For more information or to reserve your taxi, visit NewOrleansCarriageCab.com or call 207-7777.

Day One First, start with a little pampering. Follow it up with a tasty late lunch, and then hit the town for some neighborhood shopping or sightseeing. Plan for a French Quarter seafood dinner, and then head straight for the live music and signature cocktails the city’s known for. Vacationers and locals alike know the need for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation, and whether you’re wandering the city for the first time or the five thousandth, you’ll want to feel and look good while doing it. Located Uptown in the Riverbend area, Le Visage Day Spa is the perfect peaceful stop between your brunch date and shopping day. All Le Visage services start with relaxation therapy. Begin your manicure or pedicure with a unique house-made fresh

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juice or warm tea to relax the spirit. Rest your upper body with a warm neck and shoulder pillow before slipping into a therapeutic hydrotherapy footbath or preparing for your restful manicure. After rinsing the old, callused skin away, Le Visage experts restore the skin to tiptop shape. Next, enjoy a relaxing foot or hand/arm massage to increase blood flow and revitalize the skin and increase energy. Finally, spa-goers receive the finishing touch – one of several beautiful new shades from Butter London. Manicures begin at $20, and pedicures at $45. To schedule your salon date, call 265-8018. Enjoy market-fresh dining at Magazine Pizza, a Lower Garden District hot spot featuring delicious gourmet pizzas, calzones, salads, hot sandwiches, apps and wraps. The outdoor dining along one of New Orleans most famous streets makes for a great casual lunch or dinner with friends, and neighborhood favorites such as the Aphrodisiac, MachoMan and Farmers Market pizzas are perfect for sharing. Feeling more stingy? Try the Avocado Chicken sandwich, Classic Burger or an authentic Gyro. The vast and veggiefriendly menu incorporates a wide array of flavors, so there’s something for everyone. Delivery is available to Uptown, Downtown and the Warehouse District, and Magazine Pizza catering is available for private events such as Super Bowl parties, business affairs and more. View the menu online at MagazinePizza.com. For catering information or to place an order for delivery or pick-up, call 568-0211. Magazine Pizza is open from 11 a.m. to midnight daily and even later on weekends.

Fishing for New Orleans’ deFINitive seafood dining? Fish no further than Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill, a triumph of cuisine, style and design, recently named as a top seafood restaurant in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure. Executive Chef Austin Kirzner’s casual New Orleans seafood dominates a menu peppered with Big Easy favorites like Hickory Grilled Redfish, BBQ Oysters, Alligator Sausage & Seafood Gumbo, Double Chocolate Bread Pudding and a wide variety of Gulf fish available every night. Professional yet friendly service spiced with New Orleans joie de vivre ensures easy comfort and sets a tone for the ultimate laissez les bon temps rouler experience. For information or to make reservations, call 598-1200 or visit RedFishGrill.com. Saunter over to one of several Tropical Isle® locations, home of the Hand Grenade®, New Orleans’ most popular drink. Experience Trop Rock, Cajun/Zydeco & the Blues with Tropical Isle’s nightly entertainment, the best on Bourbon. Funky Pirate Music and Sports Bar is open 8 a.m. ’til at least 1 a.m., with an 80” HD screen for sporting events and classic pirate films. With blues music seven nights a week, enjoy Blues Sunday with monthly visiting acts and Patrick Williams and the Blues Masters performing Tuesday through Saturday nights. Music is also featured on weekends during the day. For more on the music schedule visit TropicalIsle.com. The famous Hand Grenade® drink is also available here. Also visit Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro, a favorite dinner and drinks destination, tucked away right off Bourbon and Royal streets in the heart of the French Quarter with

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more than 75 wines by the glass and 200 by the bottle. From 10:30 p.m.-midnight, enjoy new late night specials such as $3 Absolut Martinis and various wine specials. Cheese Boards and desserts also available. Visit their Web site for menus and info at OrleansGrapevine.com.

Day Two Now that you’ve got a taste of the Big Easy, use your second day to expand your South Louisiana horizons. New Orleans is conveniently located within easy driving distance of a number of small towns and parishes that offer a true taste of what Louisiana living is like. Enjoy some small town shopping, a swamp tour, or join in the festival fun that goes on year-round. Just 40 miles north of New Orleans, the historic City of Covington lies enveloped by scenic rivers, live oak trees and fragrant long-leaf pines. The charming downtown offers an abundance of unique boutiques and galleries where you can discover one-of-a kind treasures, as well as exquisite options for dining and entertainment. The state-recognized Cultural Arts District offers tax-free art purchases year-round. Spend the day shopping the downtown, picnicking at the riverside Bogue Falaya Park, or biking the Tammany Trace. Then, have an unforgettable meal at one of Covington’s many renowned restaurants, enjoy live music out on the town, and stay the night at one of our charming bed and breakfasts. Community events abound throughout the year, including the ever-popular Covington Farmer’s Market (every Saturday and Wednesday), Columbia Street Block Parties, and Rockin’ the Rails free concerts at the Covington Trailhead. Come see what Covington has to offer. Visit CovLa.com for more information. In St. Landry Parish, festivals and events celebrate all the region offers: boudin, etouffee, cracklins, yams, catfish, Zydeco music, antiquing, dancing, artwork, Cajun French language and even more. Visitors are invited to experience the area’s culture and create memories of a lifetime. After this year’s Super Bowl, head two hours west and you’ll enjoy a traditional Cajun Country Mardi Gras starting Feb. 8 in Eunice, Louisiana. Activities include a street dance, Les Jeunes, Mardi Gras events for teens ages 13-17, an old-time boucherie, live music and parade. An authentic Courir de Mardi Gras takes place Feb. 12 with horseback riding and chicken chases – a Mardi Gras experience unlike any other. The City of Opelousas offers a fantastic Lundi (Monday) Gras celebration downtown and then continues the party on Tuesday with a parade and live Cajun and Zydeco music. Opelousas is centrally located at the junction of U.S. Highway 190 and Interstate 49, and is only 15 minutes north of Interstate 10. Call for more information or visit CajunTravel.com.

Day Three You haven’t been to New Orleans if you haven’t enjoyed a late-morning brunch or early-afternoon, long lunch. Depending on whether you’re vacationing on a weekend or weekday, your brunch/lunch hour is one of the best parts of the day. After filling your belly, enjoy an afternoon of gallery hopping and antiquing. With seafood checked off your list, head into downtown for a perfectly seasoned steak, complete with a side of live music. 114

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Whether it’s a weekday or weekend, your lunchtime options at Commander’s Palace are guaranteed to be full of flavor and fun. Jazz Brunch at Commander’s Palace on Saturdays and Sundays are what living in New Orleans is all about: cocktails, food and music. Start your day off with one of their signature cocktails such as the Whiskey Smash, Tequila Mockingbird or the Whoa Nellie, expertly crafted by Bar Chef Ferrel Dugas. Or, enjoy a Classic Bloody Mary as part of Chef Tory McPhail’s Jazz Brunch Special along with Turtle Soup, Eggs Cochon de Lait and Creole Bread Pudding Souffle. Tap your feet to the tunes of Joe Simon’s Jazz Trio as you dine and imbibe New Orleans-style. Commander’s weekday lunch (Monday-Friday) is the bestkept secret in New Orleans. Enjoy a two-course meal for as low as $16 along with 25-cent martinis. Possible entrees include the Candy Apple Lacquered Quail and the Mushroom Crusted Gulf Fish. The lunch menu also features “Good & Hearty” items that are Ochsner Health System approved. Find menus and more online at CommandersPalace.com, or call 899-8221 for reservations. The French Quarter is full of things to look at – art, antiques, verdant balconies and architecture – but there’s perhaps no place with more to see than the 30,000 square feet of fine art, exquisite jewelry and exceptional 18th and 19th century antiques at M.S. Rau Antiques, a true French Quarter landmark. Founded in 1912, M.S. Rau Antiques is celebrating 100 years of displaying and selling works of art by such renowned artists as van Gogh, Renoir, Gauguin and Rembrandt. M.S. Rau Antiques’ gallery selection is extensive and spans numerous categories, from silver and fine paintings to breathtaking and rare jewels. A 12.27-carat pink diamond ring worth more than $7 million was just sold with another on offer. Whether you’re a buyer or a looker, all are welcome to view the expansive collection at M.S. Rau Antiques, located at 630 Royal St. The gallery is open to the public Monday through Saturday, 9:15 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit RauAntiques.com or call 523-5660. Locals and tourists alike have been thrilled by the refreshingly uncomplicated menu of Chophouse New Orleans, awarding this prime steakhouse with Opentable Diners’ Choice awards for Best Food, Best Service, Best Ambiance, Notable Wine List and Good for Groups. Additionally, Chophouse was recently named “Best New Restaurant” by readers of Where Y’at. Chophouse New Orleans serves only USDA Prime for every steak, including filets. The menu also offers notable seafood selections, such as fresh Florida stone crabs; served cold, the succulent and juicy claws are accompanied with a special house sauce. At Chophouse New Orleans, every detail counts. From prime, aged steaks, barrel cut filets, quality sized shrimp and crab, to top-of-the-line cooking techniques and carefully chosen breads and coffee, guests can expect the freshest, best tasting steak, seafood and sides. Chophouse New Orleans is open daily at 5 p.m. and features live music nightly. For information and reservations, call 522-7902 or visit them on the web at ChophouseNola.com or Facebook.com/chophousenola.

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Pilates and a Little History – New Orleans-style

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Uncle Joe’s Pilates Detox/Retox class

By MORGAN PACKARD

Pilates, or even taken a class, but you’ve never taken a Pilates class like this. Uncle Joe’s Pilates Studio, a nod to the regimen’s founder, in Riverbend co-owned by Larry Gibas and Juan Williams, teaches what’s commonly known as classical Pilates. (That means it’s the closest you can get to Pilates’ original body of work.) In fact, Gibas and Williams can trace their connection to Pilates in one move – through Romana Kyzanowska, who had been instructed by Pilates in the 1940s and became the director of his Pilates Studio in New York in the ’70s. The Pilates method has five core principles that one should keep in mind throughout the workout: Control, Centering, Flow, Precision and Breath. It uses controlled movements that start from a strong core through the use of the human body and a range of apparatuses and mat work. Each piece of equipment, including the mat, has its own repertoire and range of exercises. While Uncle Joe’s offers group mat and tower classes, as well as individual and small group instruction (at an instructor’s discretion) on pieces of equipment such as the reformer, cadillac, high

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ou have probably heard of Joseph

chair and barrel, their most intriguing class is titled: Detox/Retox. This advanced mat class (that you can only take after an Uncle Joe’s instructor has evaluated your technique) is held one Friday a month and is followed by instructor-crafted cocktails and noshes – the flan, in particular, and if on offer, isn’t to be missed. (8211 Hampson St., 895-5008, UncleJoesPilates.com), The history of Joseph Pilates and his teachings – as well as its modern incarnations – is fascinating; see Uncle Joe’s website for more.

Getaway Deals at Sandestin GolF and Beach Resort

(866) 544-1026, Sandestin.com/NOM

If you’re looking for some fresh sea air, rest and relaxation after the holidays, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is running a great deal, offering a free night when you book two. You will have access to all the amenities of this first-class resort, including: seven miles of beaches, four championship golf courses, tennis and swimming and the marina. Alternatively you might want to book for the 24th annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival on President’s Day Weekend or the Annual Sandestin Wine Festival, April 18 through 21, featuring celebrity chef Paula Deen. – M i r e l l a cam e ran

Shopping

New Irish Crystal at Adler’s Multiple Locations, AdlersJewelry.com

In most cities, January might be a quiet month for gifting; but in New Orleans that couldn’t be further from the case. With Super Bowl, Mardi Gras and wedding season popping up right after the new year, there will be a lot of gifting and entertaining to be done. Adler’s is always a cornucopia of tabletop, serving and entertaining pieces, and now, following a buyer’s trip to Ireland, the isle’s most beautiful Waterford crystal is available in Adler’s stores. We hear quantities are limited, so don’t miss out. – M . C . myneworleans.com

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A Pixie at Krewe du Vieux B Y E R R O L L A B O R D E

a r l y in t h e p a r a d e I h a d m a d e a g o o d c a tc h .

We were near Marigny Street watching Krewe du Vieux pass by. Because the irreverent krewe marches on the weekend before the big-floated parades begin, it’s a harbinger of the season. Its marchers and its crowd tend to be more bohemian than what might be seen in the more conservative precincts of Uptown. There is a funkiness to the parade that just seems to capture the spirit. My catch was a huge ring made from a hunk of white translucent plastic. When a button was pressed, it flashed incessantly. There I was, with the parade barely started, and I was already blinking. As the march continued I grew a little weary. We had walked a good distance to the spot and I had been standing for a while. During a lull in the parade I noticed that across the street there was a row of shotgun houses, each one with a set of stoops suitable for sitting. I momentarily left my group, crossed the street and found an unoccupied spot. I hadn’t been sitting long when a 20ish girl approached the stoops. She was dressed with dyed shoes, a green leotard, green sequined wings, a puffy wig and a painted face. In another era she would’ve been thought of as a flower child, but what separated her from the past was her iPhone. She plopped on the stoop next to me and explained that she wanted to text friends about Mardi Gras. Her texting was intense until she noticed my blinking ring, which made her wideeyed. “Hey, mister,” she said while reaching for her backpack, “I’ll trade you a Coke for that ring.” I thought for a moment but decided to decline, though I’m not sure why. Maybe it was because I really didn’t want a Coke but it was probably because the ring was the first catch of the season and it blinked. Why compromise a fast start? She nodded and said she understood and returned to her texting. A few moments later she turned to me again and said, “Hey, would you like some King Cake vodka?” Social norms would usually suggest turning down vodka from a perfect stranger sitting on a stoop, especially one dressed like Tinkerbell, but this time I just couldn’t say no. “Sure,” I answered. From her backpack she pulled out a sort of plastic squeeze bag filled with vodka. With the bling on my hand still blinking, I took a squirt. To my surprise it was good, really good, tasting very much like the classic cinnamon King Cakes. I asked her where she got it while hoping she wouldn’t say she made it in her bathtub. I was relieved when she said Dorignac’s. (I would later learn, that the store had indeed begun offering a line of King Cake vodka last year.) 128

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I thanked her. She went back to texting. I got up to look at the parade. By this time the Krewe du Vieux had passed and the Krewe Delusion was on its way. I saw my group across the street and figured it was time to join them. There was one bit of business though. I went back to the girl who was still working her iPhone and handed her the ring. She was thrilled. I didn’t get a can of Coke in return, but I certainly felt that the ring was on a more deserving hand. I looked back and she was texting again but now one of her hands was blinking. I wondered what she was writing. Maybe she was telling them that the nights are different in New Orleans at Mardi Gras.

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