JUNEÂ 2015
myneworleans.com $4.95 es nc ma r o rf dow t Pe y Wi a e Gr Merr e h T resents : p Met TV e ES- th WY at
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TRY THIS
Bra Genie in Baton Rouge Bra Genie: 7539 Corp. Blvd., Suite 180, Baton Rouge, (225) 223-6114, TheBraGenie.com Bra Genie, the bra-fitting salon in Mandeville, has opened a second location in Baton Rouge. Located in the Towne Center, next to Whole Foods, the store will carry bras, panties, shape-wear and bra-sized swimwear. Customers will find top brands from the Northshore location including: Prima Donna, Empreinte, Chantelle, Fantasie and Elomi. Sizes will range 28-48 with cup sizes AA-KK. There will be eight full-time fitters and 10 changing rooms.
taking off
flyboarding Above the Waves By Sarah Ravits
I Backyard Living opens new retail location in Lakeview Backyard Living: 7211 Regents St., 282-1011, BackyardLivingNola.com Backyard Living Pools Design and Construction, which has been designing, building and servicing pools for 20 years, has recently opened a new retail location in Lakeview. The new store offers outdoor furniture and décor, outdoor kitchens and products and services for pools, backyards, sunrooms and patios. Top name brands such as Century Furniture, DCS and Kamado Joe are available, along with a large selection of smokers, lighting, fountains and gifts. The company offers free outdoor space planning and runs monthly events including “Mimosas in the Morning.” Free grilling and cooking classes feature well-known chefs, including experts from Ruth’s Chris steakhouse. – Mirella Cameran cheryl gerber photographs
am a water fiend – I grew up on an island in the middle of a lake, and I spent as much time as I could boating, swimming, inner-tubing, kayaking, canoeing, kneeboarding or waterskiing. If I’m near a body of water (with the exception of the Mississippi River), I can’t resist jumping in. Recently while sailing on Lake Pontchartrain, I noticed someone in the distance being propelled about 40 feet into the air in what looked like a superhero outfit. (I later realized it was a life jacket and helmet.) Overcome with curiosity, I found out this sport was called flyboarding, and I thought to myself: Why not live out my childhood dreams of flying like Peter Pan and bobbing through the water like a dolphin on speed? Like a lot of cool things in Louisiana, flyboarding originated in France. It was invented in 2012 by Franky Zapata, and it’s rapidly catching on at tourist destinations for outdoor adventurers across the globe. NOLA Flyboarding (7400 Lakeshore Drive, 982-8346, NolaFlyBoarding.com), owned by Tony Bertucci, is the only place where you can flyboard in the state. He operates two locations: one on the Lakefront (launch is at Brisbi’s restaurant) and another in Madisonville. I showed up on a Saturday morning for my first lesson. After a brief overview of the mechanics of the device, safety precautions (flyboarding is actually very safe) and a lesson on how to posture my body and turn myself once I got in the air, my instructor, Geremy Stovall, took me out on the lake. He strapped me into some heavy-duty boots with jet nozzles connected to a board that’s hooked up to a long hose. The hose was connected to a personal watercraft – operated by Stovall – which propelled water pressure that allowed me to get into the air. Flyboarding is a little tricky at first; it requires balance and a few tries before you get the hang of it. The guys are great instructors, teaching people as young as age 10 and upwards of 70, and they informed me that they have a 100-percent success rate. “Everybody flies,” is their promise. You have to laugh at yourself a little bit – because you’ll most likely flop a few times before you get the hang of it, but once you get up in the air, soaring over the lake, you will actually briefly feel like a superhero. n myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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/ STREETCAR
Bud’s With a Twist By errol laborde
T
here have been certain pivotal moments in New Orleans dining history when the world just seemed to change. For example: • When Antoine’s switched from having an all-French menu to one that included a foreign language: English. • When Galatorie’s stopped serving chipped ice in its water goblets and moved to the more daring cubes. • When Morning Call moved from the French Quarter to Fat City (later to expand to City Park). • And now this: Bud’s Broiler, the legendary purveyor
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of charcoal grilled burgers, serving poor boys of either shrimp or fish. Lunch this day was at the senior (1956) surviving Bud’s Broiler, the one on City Park Avenue, next to the railroad track, across from Delgado. A banner on the balcony announced the poor boys’ availability. I was curious if I could get a shrimp poor boy dressed like a classic Bud’s burger. Bud’s is known for its menu numbering system so that a “Number One” means that the burger comes with mayonnaise, relish and the house special sauce. Other choices include various combinations of cheddar cheese, chili, onion and the sauce. (There are also options with hotdogs and chicken, but the place has always been about the burger.) There I was doing what would have been unthinkable in a simpler era – ordering a shrimp poor boy at Bud’s. “Dressed,” I added. Then I paused and sheepishly added, for the sake of science, “and can you put sauce on it?” She nodded to the affirmative. (While I waited for my order I noticed the hundreds of names that had been scratched onto the wooden tables through the decades. There were “Tom & Julie” who might have been students at Delgado years ago back when it was primarily a trade school, he studying to be a welder she learning to be a secretary. They might have fallen in love over a chocolate shake.) Bud’s is known for its house brand hickory sauce that adds another level of He-Man flavor to the charcoal grilled burger. But should that sauce accompany shrimp? Here fate intervened to help with my experiment. My poor
boy arrived populated with shrimp within crispy bread slices that had been slathered with mayonnaise and embellished with lettuce and tomato, but there was no sauce. This turned out to be fortuitous. The guy behind the counter apologized for the oversight and was gracious in handing me a cup half-filled with sauce. Now I had better control over the experiment I ate half the poor boy without the sauce, (It was excellent – the way a shrimp poor boy should be – and the bread had the right crunchiness.) The other half I spooned with the sauce, entering a Never Never Land where a shrimp sandwich is dressed as a Bud’s Number One burger. I also dipped a spoon into the cup and sampled the sauce on its own. It is a reddish connection, not quite the color of ketchup with a savory, smoky, hickory flavor. I noticed something else about the sauce: It’s always served warm. Even in the cup I could feel the heat, which adds bounce to the flavor. From the experiment I learned that hickory sauce isn’t bad on a shrimp poor boy, but we should defer to the cosmic order, which has already determined that sauces are better for burgers; seafood is better simply dressed so that the taste of the fry isn’t inhibited. We learn from nature. Hickory trees are seldom found near places where shrimp live. On the way out, I asked the counter guy how long they had been serving poor boys. “I think about two years,” he said. OK, so my news isn’t exactly a scoop, but it was news to me. Note to Tom & Julie: Life changes but your names are still on the table closest to the counter. n ARTHUR NEAD ILLUSTRATION
JUNE 2015 / VOLUME 49 / NUMBER 9 Editor-in-Chief Errol Laborde Managing Editor Morgan Packard Art Director Tiffani Reding Amedeo Contributing Editor Liz Scott Monaghan Food Editor Dale Curry Dining Editor Jay Forman Wine and Spirits Editor Tim McNally Restaurant Reporter Robert Peyton Home Editor Bonnie Warren web Editor Kelly Massicot Staff Writer Melanie Warner Spencer Intern Lani Griffiths SALES MANAGER Kate Sanders (504) 830-7216 / Kate@MyNewOrleans.com Senior Account Executive Jonée Daigle Ferrand Account Executives Sarah Daigle, Lauren Lavelle, Lisa Picone Love Production Manager Staci McCarty Production Designers Monique DiPietro, Claire Geary, Antoine Passelac, Ali Sullivan traffic coordinator Jessica DeBold Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne President Alan Campell Executive VICE PRESIDENT Errol Laborde Vice President of Sales Colleen Monaghan DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND EVENTS Cheryl Lemoine Distribution Manager John Holzer Administrative Assistant Denise Dean SUBSCRIPTIONS Sara Kelemencky WYES DIAL 12 STAFF (504) 486-5511 Executive Editor Beth Arroyo Utterback Managing Editor Aislinn Hinyup Associate Editor Robin Cooper Art Director Jenny Hronek
NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE Printed in USA A Publication of Renaissance Publishing 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123 Metairie, LA 70005 Subscriptions: (504) 830-7231
MyNewOrleans.com
New Orleans Magazine (ISSN 0897 8174) is published monthly by Renaissance Publishing, LLC., 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 828-1380. 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 2015 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.
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contents
52 FEATURES
IN EVERY ISSUE
ON THE COVER
52
Best New Restaurants
They keep on coming By Jay Forman, Tim McNally and Robert Peyton
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Top Dentists
Brushing up our list Profiles by Kimberley Singletary
Each year we gather an editorial team to decide our Best New Restaurants. This year the trouble wasn’t finding them, but choosing from so many notable new places. Learn all about the eight we’ve presented plus an additional three that are “too new to review,” starting on pg. 52.
INSIDE “What to Do About Rice?”
16 speaking out Editorial, plus a Mike Luckovich cartoon 18
JULIA STREET Questions and answers about our city
127 Try This “Taking Off: Flyboarding above the waves” 128 STREETCAR “Bud’s With a Twist”
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Photographed by Marianna Massey
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contents
24
THE BEAT 22
MARQUEE
Entertainment calendar
24
PERSONA
Chef and Owner of Compère Lapin Nina Compton
26
Biz
“A Flip of the Coin: No cash, no credit? No problem”
28
education
“Innsbruck Memories: UNO’s international summer program at 40”
30
HEALTH
“Iced Tea: The facts unsweetened”
32
HEALTHBEAT
The latest news in health from New Orleans and beyond
48
84
LOCAL COLOR
THE MENU
36
82
38
40
42
IN TUNE
Read & Spin
84 restaurant insider
A look at the latest albums and books
Angeline, The Big Cheezy and Salon by Sucré
“UNO Press Delivers”
86
FOOD
MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS
“Summertime ...: and the sorbet is flavorful”
88
LAST CALL
JAZZ LIFE
“House Sitting: Uptown Style”
Joie d’Eve
“Caterpillars and Tadpoles: Fear through a child’s eyes”
46
CHRONICLES
90
“Midway Mule”
DINING GUIDE
“The Scent of Vetiver”
48
HOME
“Capitol Gain:” Ross McWilliams and Jim Simpson’s LGD home
“Bean Scene: Coffees with imagination”
44
table talk
“It’s a Woman’s World”
DIAL 12 D1 Chocoholics get ready! WYES-TV will hold its 13th annual Chocolate Sunday event on Sun., June 7 at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport in Messina’s at the Terminal. Guests will find myriad offerings of chocolate from many of the city’s best-known confectionaries. Tickets and more information at WYES.org. Captain Ross Poldark rides again! An all-new version of the vintage Masterpiece series “Poldark” begins Sun., June 21 at 8 p.m. – only on WYES-TV/Channel 12.
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inside
What to Do About Rice?
I
have a culinary question. What exactly are we supposed to do with a glob of white rice? Ever so often I get that with my entrée, most often but not exclusively, at a Vietnamese or Chinese restaurant. The rice is tasteless. Apparently we are supposed to mix it with something more flavorful from the dish, but what’s the point? Why add the calories of something that tastes like nothing? This question is particularly sensitive down here in a land where home cooks do great things with rice, which is a native crop. There is the classic jambalaya, or the so-called “dirty rice” made with ground innards that are mixed with seasonings. Few restaurants serve it, but one of the local home-cooked masterpieces is rice and gravy, for which the debris from a pot roast is ladled over the grains. In college I had a roommate from the Cajun town of Ville Platte who actually went into rice and gravy withdrawal at night. “I need some rice and gravy so bad, Hoss,” he would say as he pined away in his asleep. Some flavored rices exist, and lately there has been a resurgence of so-called popcorn rice. These dishes can be good if they’re done right, but quite often rice is like grits, just taking up space on the plate. Not even a pat of butter provides much relief. There is a real kinship between Louisiana cuisine and that of the Vietnamese, particularly with seafood. While we can learn much from the Asian community, especially about new and rich vegetables, they could also learn from us about rice. It is supposed to have flavor. If all else fails, buy canned gravy at the supermarket, Closely related to globby white rice are vermicelli noodles, which are made from rice and are often served cold and as tasteless as the grain. If the vermicelli industry wants its product to grow, here’s a tip – hire some Italians. Let them ladle on sauces made with olive oil and garlic or perhaps rich tomatoes speckled with olive bits. The key is to actually mix something with flavor into the noodles. This is our annual Best Restaurants issue. All of the new places are excellent. Some specialize in Mediterranean cuisine; three give deference to the American South. They serve a variety of fascinating dishes, yet none, as far as I know, serves rice and gravy. This is a dish waitingto be rediscovered. Rice will again have found its purpose.
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meet our sales team
Colleen Monaghan Vice President of Sales (504) 830-7215 Colleen@myneworleans.com
Kate Sanders Sales Manager (504) 830-7216 Kate@myneworleans.com
Jonee Daigle-Ferrand Senior Account Executive (504) 830-7257 Jonee@myneworleans.com
Sarah Favret Daigle Account Executive (504) 830-7220 SarahD@myneworleans.com
Lisa Picone Love Account Executive (504) 830-7263 Lisa@myneworleans.com
Lauren Lavelle Olinde Account Executive (504) 830-7298 LaurenL@myneworleans.com
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SPEAKING OUT
Rebuilding the Gateway
A
cartoon in The New Yorker once showed a woman who answered the phone in a fashionable Manhattan apartment turning to her husband and saying, “It’s your tally man, he’s tallied your bananas.” As the banana industry returns to New Orleans, we can assume that there will again be tallymen on our streets. In deference to the Harry Belafonte song we can only say, “Day-O.” There was a time when New Orleans could claim to be the “Gateway to the Americas” with some credibility. As recently as the 1970s, three Central American airlines, Lacsa (Costa Rica), Sasha (Honduras) and Taca (El Salvador), flew non-stop between here and Central America. Banana boats sliced across the Gulf to gather their cargo. The New Orleans influence in Honduras and Guatemala was so large that next to the capitol city of Tegucigalpa, New Orleans had the largest Honduran population. Former mayor deLesseps Morrison was such a booster of Central American that President John
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Kennedy made him the Ambassador to the Organization of American States, a diplomatic group focused on Pan-American relationships. When the wealthy in those countries fell ill their hospital of choice was Ochsner on Jefferson Highway, which even had its own hotel for foreign visitors. Near the corner of Canal and Basin streets stands a statue of Simon Bolivar, liberator of Latin America. Much of the relationship between New Orleans and Central America had to do with geography, but muscle was a factor, too. Through United Fruit, which was headquartered locally, forces in New Orleans had enormous influence over the governance and business of much of Central America. Early revolutions were often organized here. (Benito Juarez raised money locally before his conquest of Mexico.) Geographically we’re still the Gateway to the Americas, but practically we are not. Houston and Miami emerged as major international airports serving the Latin American markets.
The international carriers disappeared in a spike of mergers. Continental, United and American airlines moved into the market. In the age of containerization New Orleans lost the banana trade to Gulf Port. Our city’s greatest connection to Hispanic America was Cuba. New Orleans and Havana were such natural trading partners they seemed like twins separated at birth. No city was as victimized by the Cold War as was ours when the embargo was implemented. For five decades, both cities have lost economic possibility because of limited trade between them. For several years during the early Castro regime the only connections between Cuba and New Orleans were CIA-funded broadcasts over WWL radio’s powerful signal, which was targeted at the island. Now things are changing. The diplomatic ice between Cuba and the United States is melting. The banana business is returning to the city. This month, Copa Airlines will begin non-stop service four times a week from New Orleans to its home base in Panama City, Panama. (It is the only continuing nonstop service to Latin American from here.) We will never be the No. 1 gateway to the Americas; Houston and Miami took that claim once passenger jets provided more transportation than boats. We can, however, be the most historically important gateway and the one to which people from other countries will most want to travel. Having the banana business back helps, too. May the tallymen have bunches of bunches to tally. n
AN ORIGINAL ©MIKE LUCKOVICH CARTOON FOR NEW ORLEANS MAGAZINE
JULIA STREET /
WITH POYDRAS THE PARROT
TH E PUR S UIT TO AN S W E R E T E RNA L Q U E S TION S
Dear Julia and Poydras, I have seen pictures of Horticultural Hall, the magnificent glass-enclosed conservatory that was built for the 1884 World’s Fair at what is now Audubon Park and never cease to marvel at its elegance and beauty. I heard it was demolished after the great hurricane of 1915 but do you know exactly when it was torn down? Cynthia Derby Metairie
Horticultural Hall wasn’t demolished “after” the 1915 hurricane – hurricane-force winds blew the building completely apart the evening of Wed., Sept. 29, 1915. It was never rebuilt. Within the span of nine years, Horticultural Hall was threatened at least three times by high winds and tropical storms. The massive glass-enclosed wood frame building, which measured 600-by-190 feet, had a near
miss in early Oct. 1906 when a tornado struck the park, uprooting a mature oak but sparing Horticultural Hall. Three years later, on the morning of Sept. 20, ’09, the building sustained a direct hit from a tornado which tore away the structure’s Magazine Street side. Horticultural Hall was rebuilt, but was lost forever in the ’15 hurricane. Horticultural Hall was erected for the 1884 World’s Fair, which was officially
known as the World’s Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition at New Orleans. It is shown in its heyday in this Thomas Hunter lithograph from the Library of Congress. Dear Julia, I read somewhere that Huey Long had a house at 14 Audubon Place. When I was a student at Newcomb in the 1970s, I walked down that street and the No. 14 lot was
Win a chappy’s restaurant gift certificate
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Here is a chance to eat, drink 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 $25 gift certificates at Chappy’s Restaurant on Magazine Street. 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: Cynthia Derby, Metairie; and Tony Clesi, New Orleans.
JUNE 2015 / myneworleans.com
photo courtesy of Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, D.C. 20540 USA
vacant. I’m wondering if you can tell me what happened to Long’s house. I know another was built there after I saw the vacant lot. Can you satisfy my curiosity? Thanks, Laura Miller New Orleans You had the right address but the wrong street. Huey P. Long did indeed have a residence at 14 Audubon, but it was Audubon Boulevard, not Audubon Place. In 1932, Gov. Long purchased the home from its original owner, Simon J. Shwartz. After Long’s assassination, his widow sold the residence to the State of Louisiana, which initially used it as a memorial to the colorful politician. In Jan. 1978, the state appeared to classify preparations for the mansion’s sale as “crisis spending.” On Jan. 10, The Times-Picayune reported the state legislature’s Interim Emergency Board approved, as part of more than $600,000 in emergency spending, the Office of Facility Planning’s request for $8,000 to appraise and nationally advertise for sale Huey P. Long’s former Audubon Boulevard residence. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that $8,000 would be about $28,800 in today’s funds. Huey P. Long’s former residence at 14 Audubon Blvd. returned to private residential use and ownership in 1979. The Emile Weil-designed home, which was built in ’24, still stands and is an officially designated city historic landmark. Dear Julia and Poydras, There is a strange piece of concrete on the downtown lake side on St. Charles Avenue at Marengo Street. I cannot imagine what it is or what it was used for. It appears to be the tip of an obelisk. Moreover it’s placed in an awkward manner at the intersection.
Please do whatever you can to solve the mystery of the top of an obelisk. I am trusting in Poydras’ ability to find answers to mysteries. Tony Clesi New Orleans Poydras did some aerial reconnaissance based on your directions but reports he found no concrete obelisk at the downtown lake corner of St. Charles Avenue and Marengo Street. He believe you must have meant the downtown river side of that intersection, in the block bounded by St. Charles Avenue and Constantinople, Pitt and Marengo streets. There are actually four such little obelisks in that block, all of which are on the St. Charles Avenue side of the residence at 4036 St. Charles Ave. Perhaps you missed the other three because they are obscured by shrubbery. Because of the height and location of the four obelisks, they appear to have been end points of a now-vanished low wall running along the front of the property. An early photograph of the residence appears in the Friends of the Cabildo’s New Orleans Architecture: Volume VII: Jefferson City and confirms the existence of a low wall or high curbing with taller end pieces that appear to correspond with size, appearance and locations of the surviving mini-obelisks. Renowned architect Emile Weil designed the home, which was completed in 1902 for Maline Godchaux Lehmann (d. ’11), widow of prominent dry goods merchant Abraham Lehmann. I am quite sure your obelisk was straight when installed but it should be noted that it may have settled unevenly over the years. It should also be noted that a mature oak tree, which was planted after the house was built, is in the immediate vicinity. n
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the beat MARQUEE
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PERSONA
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BIZ
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EDUCATION
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HEALTH
”We have a strongman, Rusty Bolts, who can tear giant phone books ... We have extreme sideshow performers. There’s a woman named Mab Just Mab (who) walks on glass (and) can swallow a balloon that’s four feet long. ... (and) there’s an archer that fires arrows at live targets.” – Producers Little Luna, Ginger Licious and Ben Wisdom for the new Snake Oil Festival
spotlight pg. 23
Craig Mulcahy PHOTOGRAPH
THE BEAT / MARQUEE
OUR TOP PICKS FOR june EVENTS
cheryl gerber photo
BY LAUREN LABORDE
Local Flavor
Wine & Beer
In Essence
No longer just a touristy stop for knockoff designer purses and emergency sunglasses, the French Market has grown in recent years to include a weekly farmers market, better food stands and more locally made goods. If you need even more of an excuse to visit, the Creole Tomato Fest, centered around the market and its surrounding area, celebrates that delicious summer fruit with cooking demonstrations, culinary discussions, food booths and live music June 13 and 14. To kick off the festival, there’s Summer Harvest Gala on June 10 at the market, featuring dishes from notable local chefs Justin Devillier, Slade Rushing, Kristen Essig and more. Information, FrenchMarket.org
No matter your libation of choice, you can get your fill of wine or beer at festivals on the very same day. The French American Chamber of Commerce’s Gulf Coast outpost hosts its French Summer Wine Festival at The Shops at Canal Place on June 6, with a 1960s theme . Information, facc-gc.com Over at Champions Square there’s the New Orleans International Beer Festival, with two-ounce unlimited sampling of craft beers from around the world, food, a new cider garden, beer seminars, music and more. Information, NewOrleansInternationalBeerFest.com
Essence Festival brings in huge names in hip-hop, R&B and comedy, and this year is no different: Kendrick Lamar, the rapper behind one of the most critically acclaimed albums of 2015; R&B star Charlie Wilson; neo-soul queen Erykah Badu; wildly successful comedian and actor Kevin Hart; and more. Speakers, parties and other events round out the July 4th weekend. Information, Essence.com/festival
CALENDAR June 6. New Orleans Film Society screening of Grease, Coliseum Square Park. Information, NewOrleansFilmSociety.org
June 8. WWE Raw, Smoothie King Center. Information, SmoothieKingCenter.com
June 6-7. Louisiana Cajun Zydeco Festival, Armstrong Park. Information, JazzAndHeritage.org
June 11. Jazz in the Park featuring Raw Oyster Cult and Darcy Malone and the Tangle, Armstrong Park. Information, pufap.org
June 5-8. Brothers from the Bottom, NOCCA’s Lupin Hall. Information, NOCCA.com
June 11-14. Festigals, JW Mariott Hotel. Information, FestiGals.org
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June 18. NOLA Tango Festival, Astor Crowne Plaza. Information, NOLATangoFestival.com
workshops and what’s sure to be some debaucherous afterparties. Burlesque producer, emcee and comedian Ben Wisdom, one of the producers of the event, talked to us about the new festival. How was this event conceived? In 2012 I and the
SPOTLIGHT
Sideshow on the Mainstage
Ben Wisdom and the new Snake Oil Festival promise an unforgettable experience
W
ith a strong history of striptease and a love for all that’s spooky and weird, it makes sense that New Orleans is a hotspot for the revival of burlesque and circus sideshow performance happening all over the country. Celebrating neo-burlesque and sideshow is the inaugural Snake Oil Festival, happening June 19-21 at the Howlin’ Wolf and locations on St. Claude Avenue, featuring performances, June 19-20. Jefferson Performing Arts Center’s Grand Opening and Gala, Airline Drive arts center. Information, JPAS.org June 19-21. New Orleans Pride Festival, various locations. Information, PrideNewOrleans.com June 18-21. Tulane Summer Lyric presents Damn Yankees, Dixon Hall. Information, SummerLyric.Tulane.edu June 18-21. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Smoothie
Craig Mulcahy PHOTOGRAPH
co-producers of the festival, burlesque performers Little Luna and Ginger Licious, went to the Americana Burlesque and Sideshow Festival in Asheville, North Carolina. We got really inspired by what we saw … it was a lot of variety. There are tons of burlesque festivals – there’s one in just about every major city – and even small ones. We were inspired to focus not only on striptease but on the variety of entertainment that accompanies burlesque. New Orleans is the perfect place for it – it’s a mecca for this neo-burlesque and sideshow revival that’s happening.
What kinds of things should people expect to see? All kinds
of stuff. We have a strongman, Rusty Bolts, from Virginia. Rusty can tear giant phone books, rip them in half with his bare hands. He can drive nails into wood with his fists. We have extreme sideshow performers. There’s a woman named Mab Just Mab from Washington D.C. – she walks on glass. She can swallow a balloon that’s four feet long.
Mab Just Mab wears a costume where she has burlesque dancer puppet attached to her … like a conjoined twin that didn’t grow all the way. She makes it dance, takes its clothes off. Marlo Marquise from Albuquerque does amazing stuff. The act she’s going to do for us isn’t for everyone, but you’ll never forget it: She’s suspended from the ceiling by hooks placed in her body. It’s not gory or anything like that. There’s an archer that fires arrows at live targets … and is dead-on, 100 percent accurate every time. The foremost sideshow historian James Taylor, editor of Shocked and Amazed!, will give a lecture to open the festival that tells everyone a brief history of his reporting of 20 years on the subject.
What else would you like to add about the festival? I think
that the cool thing about the festival is it’s an alternative to local entertainment you see. There’s an emphasis on being professional and taking it to the next level; the thing everyone we hired has in common is they take it to the next level. It’s comprised of the best of the best with a heavy New Orleans presence. (Audiences will) see, hear and do things before they’ve never experienced before. For more information on the Snake Oil Festival, visit SnakeOilFestival.com. n
King Center. Information, Ringling.com June 20. Magnolia Ball, Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Information, OgdenMuseum.org July 2-5. Essence Fest, Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Information, Essence.com July 4. Go 4th On the River, riverfront. Information, Go4thOnTheRiver.com
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THE BEAT / PERSONA
Sichel’s “booboos” and “baby’s.” While her eventually losing to Elmi was a big upset, she was awarded the Fan Favorite of the season. This month Compton, who lives in Bywater with her husband, Larry Miller, opens her restaurant Compère Lapin in the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery in the Warehouse District.
Q: You had never been to New Orleans
Nina Compton
From “Top Chef” to Owner BY LAUREN LABORDE
A
sk many non-native New Orleanians, and some of them will tell you they ended up here because they came for Jazz Fest or Mardi Gras and just never left. It was sort of the same thing for chef Nina Compton, except the experience that made her never want to leave was competing on Bravo’s “Top Chef.” While she did return to Miami after the show, where she worked for celebrity chef Scott Conant as chef de cuisine of Scarpetta, the St. Lucia native soon returned to New Orleans and wondered why she hadn’t done so sooner. On “Top Chef New Orleans,” Compton was an early favorite to win, sweeping elimination challenges – more than the season’s eventual winner, Nicholas Elmi – and hilariously bristling at Galatoire’s chef Michael
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before being on “Top Chef”? No. And it’s funny because my husband and I wanted to come here for our honeymoon – we got married in June – and I thought, “It’s probably going to be too hot, let’s just go somewhere else.” So it was clearly on my mind, and when they told me [“Top Chef”] was going to be in New Orleans I thought it was meant to be. When I came here I was just blown away by the culture, the food, the music. It doesn’t feel like you’re in the States; it feels like you’re somewhere else. We walk down by Jackson Square and my obsession now is to look down alleyways and corridors. You’re transported to Paris or just somewhere in Europe. When we moved, we were like, “Why didn’t we move here earlier?” There are so many layers to this city. There’s so much history. It’s not just about throwing beads and drinking a hurricane; there’s more to it. Like now we’re approaching festival season – every weekend there’s something going on, I couldn’t believe it. There’s a festival for everything. It just shows you the kind of city you live in that people just celebrate life.
Q: Was there anything about “Top Chef,” as someone who’s watched the show before, that surprised you? I’ve watched the show and would say, “I’d never make that sauce” or “I’d never do this” … I think a lot
Brei Olivier photograph
Occupation: Chef and Owner of Compère Lapin Age: 37 Born/raised: Saint Lucia Favorite movie: Casino Favorite hobbies: Tennis and horse riding Favorite restaurant: “There are too many in NOLA.” Favorite food: Curry and fried plantains Favorite book: The Fourth Star. “It’s about Daniel Boulud, whom I worked for.” Favorite vacation spot: “I love Europe. Hopefully Turkey or Greece is next on my list to visit … but I also love a nice beach.”
of people judge you, but you have no idea what equipment you’ll have. There are so many facets you just don’t know about. Every single day was a new chapter. You’re cooking in a swamp, at Dooky Chase, cooking here, cooking there – so you can’t really prepare for it.
Q: Was being runner-up
disappointing because you were so close, or are you just happy to have had the experience? Winning would have been the cherry on the sundae, but I got to point where I was like, you know what, I’m just happy to be here. It was a good path for not only me but to showcase my island. After the show I was made a culinary ambassador. So I basically got to travel and educate people about our cuisine, our island. A lot of people back home want to be a chef because of me, so that says a lot. Also because I’m a woman, that’s also very tough in this industry because people see it as a very macho, man-driven
industry. So being a woman and to get this far and to be the runner up that says a lot. There are a lot of things I took away from the show.
Q: Did you always want
to be a chef? I wanted to be a farmer because that was something I grew up with. My dad had a farm in the south of the island. That was his thing; that was his passion. I always wanted to do that because I think people underestimate farming and they don’t understand it’s the temperature, it’s the weather, it’s the wind, it’s just nature. It’s a very handson thing. It’s very delicate because you have to baby that plant. When you get that fruit or vegetable that’s like, “I grew this.” It’s a very personal thing, like cooking is very personal, because you made that dish for somebody to enjoy. [Becoming a chef] just happened when I started cooking at home. I did a cocktail hour for my family. Made some hors d’oeuvres and a fancy drink and we sat out there for hours, just talking about our childhoods and growing up; I had my niece and nephew with a little tray, passing the hors d’oeuvres around, and it was fun because people were enjoying it. For me it was focusing my family, surrounding us with food and having a good time… I thought, “This is what I want to do.” n
True confession I love fashion and always say, “Keep your standards high and your heels higher.”
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THE BEAT / BIZ
A Flip of the Coin
No cash, no credit? No problem By Kathy Finn
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ost consumers these days are well acquainted with the range of technologies available to help them fork over money quickly and easily – without using cash – to pay for just about any type of product or service. Most people have multiple credit card accounts, of course. But increasingly even carrying cards is becoming passé, because anyone with a smartphone and a mobilepay app can simply scan information stored on their phone into a reader and walk away with their purchase. But even the tech-iest of consumers may be out of the loop when it comes to one of the most interesting payment methods in the marketplace: Bitcoin. People around the world are racking up more than 100,000 financial transactions every day using a kind of currency that doesn’t actually exist. Bitcoins are found only in the world of virtual reality, but that
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doesn’t mean they can’t be used to buy real merchandise. Bitcoins are a way of using and moving money without a bank account or credit card. Individuals can use dollars to purchase Bitcoins, store them in a virtual wallet linked to their smartphone and then scan their account information at participating establishments to pay for merchandise or for other purposes. Eight million users have set up Bitcoin wallets. Some $3.5 billion worth of Bitcoins are now in circulation, and 88,000 merchants accept them as a form of payment. The growing use of a six-year-old currency that exists only in online accounts was a topic of discussion recently during the national Risk Insurance Management Society conference in New Orleans. In a session that explored the insurance risk potentially posed by Bitcoin, Ty Sagalow, CEO and founder of Innovation
Insurance Group, described the currency’s somewhat mysterious roots. Bitcoins, he said, were created in 2009 by a super-geeky computer coder named Satoshi Nakamoto, who thought through how the system might work, wrote tens of thousands of lines of code and pressed a button on his computer keyboard. Voila! Bitcoin was born – or at least announced over the Internet. Whether a person named Satoshi Nakamoto actually exists remains a topic of speculation, Sagalow acknowledged. But whoever masterminded Bitcoins did a good enough job to convince a lot of people the currency has staying power. Sagalow said it’s no surprise that the use of Bitcoins still raises eyebrows among skeptics, given the “shady” nature of its early history. “It was first used for the purpose of buying illegal drugs, or to pay for murder for hire – some really bad stuff,” he says. But gradually Bitcoin rose above its dark past and began winning over Silicon Valleyfunded corporations who liked both its technological and investment appeal. Bitcoin today is valued in the marketplace in much the
Bitcoin Facts CoinDesk Research recently released a report on Bitcoin use worldwide. Here are a few findings: The total amount of Bitcoin investment into startup businesses by venture capital firms reached $676 million in first-quarter 2015. Bitcoin’s price stabilized after a rocky start, recently hitting $235. More than 8 million people have set up Bitcoin “wallets.” The number of merchants who accept Bitcoin has reached 88,000. Bitcoin’s market capitalization reached $3.4 billion. Source: State of Bitcoin, Q1 2015, CoinDesk Research.
same way as any other currency. They fluctuate against other the money, and in early May one Bitcoin was valued at $235.80. Regulated exchanges for the currency now exist, but the full regulatory aspects of Bitcoin use are yet to be explored, and that will involve myriad state and federal agencies, Sagalow said. Robert Parisi, who’s managing director with giant insurance broker Marsh USA, told risk managers who attended the local conference that insurance companies aren’t yet sure how to approach the matter of covering Bitcoin or its use. “Bitcoin has some volatil-
ity, so you can’t have the same approach to storing it as you would a commodity,” he said, adding that the currency has a certain “perishable” quality. Parisi said the currency’s price volatility is one aspect of Bitcoin that concerns insurance carriers. An upward move in price can benefit an owner, but the currency’s value can quickly turn the other way, and trying to understand exactly how a Bitcoin is created and what causes its fluctuations “is a very complex problem,” he said. In addition, the security of Bitcoin use hasn’t been fully tested. Bitcoins held by an individual or business are protected in much the same way a safe deposit box at a bank secures valuables. Once stored in a virtual wallet, the currency can only be removed or accessed through the use of two “keys” – or codes – one held by the Bitcoins’ owner and the other held publicly. “A person could lose the thumb drive that has the private key on it, then they’re no longer able to unlock their Bitcoin wallet,” Parisi said. Still, noting that the great majority of people in the world do not have bank accounts or credit cards, but a surprisingly large number have smart phones, some experts think Bitcoin could become a simple and reliable currency for millions of people. “I honestly believe that Bitcoin is the cutting edge of where monetary systems may be going,” James Kirtland, a vice president with Voya Financial Inc. told the audience. He did not suggest, however, that the transition would occur quickly. “The biggest hurdle we have with Bitcoin is, we don’t know enough about it,” he said. n myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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THE BEAT / EDUCATION
Innsbruck Memories
UNO’s International Summer Program at 40 By Dawn Wilson
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any past participants of The University of New Orleans-Innsbruck International Summer Program share a similar experience: life-altering events. Dr. Ron Coe found a wife; Debbie LeMaire Coe found Prince Charming. Teacher Angela Aubry discovered a sunny world to share and artist Carol Peebles caught the travel bug. In Austria in 1988, a July shower brought Ron and Debbie Coe together, the first moment of a 26-year marriage. “She asked if I wanted to share her umbrella,” Coe says. “Little did I know I would share the rest of my life with her.” UNO’s Innsbruck program celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Founded in 1976 by history Professor Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller, now president of the National World War II Museum, the program’s students travel to Austria each summer to experience European adventures and
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to take classes in fields such as geology, business, music and languages. More than 10,000 faculty, students and staff have participated, says Director Irene Ziegler. “Students get so close,” Ziegler says. “They study together, travel together. It really connects them.” In some cases, those travels spread like radio waves to others. Aubry attended the program in 1978, the only black student participating that year. Then a 19-year-old UNO art student, she yearned to see the masters and the Sistine Chapel with her own eyes; today she teaches English to incarcerated boys in Jefferson Parish. In class, she draws on that summer abroad to convince her students that they, too, can push their current boundaries. She calls this storytelling, “planting seeds of hope.” One tale she relates began with her and five other students visiting a casino somewhere on
TOP, LEFT: For the first UNO-Innsbruck Summer School in 1976 a PanAm plane was chartered to take students and faculty to Innsbruck. UNO’s first chancellor Dr. Homer Hitt is on the far right; next to him is Dr. Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller, the founder of the UNO-Innsbruck Summer School. Photo courtesy of the UNO Division of International Education TOP, RIGHT: Ronald Coe and Debbie Lemaire (front) met on the UNO-Innsbruck Summer School in 1988. They got married shortly after and now have three children. BOTTOM, LEFT: A group of students participates in a field trip, hiking to the top of one of the many mountains surrounding Innsbruck, the “heart of the Alps.” Photo courtesy of the UNO Division of International Education BOTTOM, RIGHT: Angela Aubry, an alumna of the UNOInnsbruck Summer School 1978, took a weekend trip from Innsbruck to Amsterdam. Photo courtesy of Angela Aubry
the French-Italian border the evening before they were departing for a new destination. Later, they missed the return train. Stranded in darkness with no way back to their hotel, they hitched a ride on the back-end of a truck, sitting in an open-aired bed of hay among metal containers of milk. The milkman provided fresh milk, cheese and bread, and chauffeured them to where they belonged in time for their morning departure. When she tells this tale to her students, boys raised in more dangerous times, they ask, “Weren’t you afraid?” Those questions remind Aubry of neighborhood friends in 1978 who questioned her desire to go to Innsbruck. She says they were afraid for her. They asked, “Two months alone with all those white people?” She ignored them, she says, and after returning to New Orleans she saw they were, “still stuck in their little worlds and there was a bigger world for me.” Carol Peebles, a UNO graduate who now teaches drawing, also credits the Innsbruck program with exposing her to, “different ways of life.” A native of New Orleans, Peebles said she was accustomed to her hometown’s laid-back attitude about cleanliness. “New Orleans is messy,” Peebles says. “In Austria, you can eat off the streets. I’d never known places like that. It makes you realize how your culture is.” The program also led her to take a yearlong trip to Denmark in 1990 after her fourth summer in Innsbruck, where she served as a student worker. “It was a life-expanding experience,” she says. Fast forward to summer 2015. About 270 students from 29 regional colleges travel to Austria this month
to take at least two classes chosen from 41 program offerings. Each will take discipline-related field trips to places such as a Munich BMW factory, a glacier and the birthplace of Mozart, Ziegler says. Ziegler, an Austrian, met her own husband by way of UNO when she came to New Orleans to obtain a master’s degree. Such connections are frequent, she says, because about 70 Austrian exchange students attend UNO each year as part of an agreement with the University of Innsbruck. After Innsbruck became a sister city in 1995, the town started its own New Orleans-style jazz fest below the picturesque snow-capped Alps. Innsbruck’s multi-colored, river-fronted landscape was the backdrop of the Coe courtship that eventually expanded to a family of five and a medical career for Ron. He says his marriage to Debbie five months after they met sparked a determination to become a physician. Today, he’s Livingston Parish’s coroner. Back in 1988, he was a financially struggling UNO English major who lucked out when he won a scholarship to go to Innsbruck. Debbie remembers the beginning of their romance somewhat differently than Ron, but that’s because she was smitten on UNO’s campus weeks before they connected in Innsbruck, she says. After some fleeting exchanges that Ron doesn’t remember, Debbie says she grasped an opportunity to get closer to him when she saw him standing in the rain outside the site of Innsbruck’s former winter Olympics. “When I shared that umbrella,” she says, “I just went cha-ching – I got him!”“We literally have a Cinderella life,” Ron Coe says, “the stuff of fairy-tales.”n
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THE BEAT / health
Iced Tea
The facts unsweetened by Brobson Lutz M.D.
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oke, coffee and iced tea are the southern holy trinity of nonalcoholic beverages. We use the word “coke” generically to include any brand of soft drink, whether actual Coca-Cola or regional favorites such as Barq’s Root Beer and Dr. Nut, may it rest in peace. Likewise, tea in the South is generic for iced tea, though the trend is to specify sweetened or unsweetened. While favorite coffee blends and soft drink brands vary by state and region, iced tea is iced tea. Various tea-brewing processes yield more or less the same end product served across the South. John Egerton had it pegged: “Iced tea is too pure and natural a creation not to have been invented as soon as tea, ice and hot weather crossed paths.” We consume iced tea all year long with a surge in warm months. Whether sweetened or unsweetened, our tea equals ice cubes in a large
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glass preferably topped with a sprig of mint from right outside the kitchen door. A summer day without iced tea is as unnatural as a day without a daily newspaper. More and more drinkers prefer unsweetened iced tea, a sometimes difficult to acquire taste for Southerners raised on the sweetened variety. For years I assumed unsweetened iced tea was akin to oxygen. Sweetened tea has caloric concerns, but the consumer can control sugar content in a glass of tea, unlike soda beverages. How much iced tea is too much? Unsweetened iced tea has always been below the radar for the food police focused on regular and diet soda drinks, salt and anything fried. But science has no sacred cows, and earlier this year a case report in the prestigious New England Journal Of Medicine put iced tea lovers on notice. Too much of anything, including iced tea, isn’t a good idea. Three kidney specialists working at a VA Hospital in Little Rock wrote about “A Case of Iced Tea Ne-
phropathy.” Their patient was a 56-year-old man with fatigue, weakness and body aches. Laboratory testing showed the man had new onset kidney failure with some different findings from the typical renal failure caused by diabetes or hypertension. One of the eagle-eyed physicians did what medical students are taught but what rarely gets done these days: A look at his urine specimen under a microscope showed abundant crystals easily identifiable as calcium oxalate crystals. Such a finding is classic for persons poisoned by drinking ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in antifreeze that sometimes shows up in bootleg whiskey. Too much Vitamin C or a binge on tropical star fruit can also cause dangerous oxalate levels in the urine. One by one their patient denied exposure to all the known culprits associated with high urinary oxalate levels. In the end it all boiled down to iced tea – too much iced tea. He had been drinking a gallon or so of iced tea daily made
from off-the-shelf common black tea. His kidney biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. The tissue sections were chock full of oxalate crystals. The authors suspect “oxalate nephropathy may be an under recognized cause of renal failure.” They recommend asking patients with renal failure about their diet, especially if the urine contains oxalate crystals but no protein. “We often see patients with oxalate kidney stones,” says local nephrologist Dr. Frank Cruz. “We tell them to cut back on high oxalate con-
tent foods like nuts, rhubarb and star fruit. We give them a food list. Excess Vitamin C turns to oxalate in the body and can aggravate kidney stones. But I have never seen a situation where iced tea caused kidney failure. Black tea is high in oxalate, but all the water that goes along with the tea usually flushes out all the excess oxalate unless there is some underlying kidney problem.” As though to underscore that all things should be consumed in moderation – just remember that even applies to iced tea. n
Case reports in medicine Written communications or letters involving what happened to a single patient are low on the totum pole of academic prestige in medicine. Even so, case reports are a time-honored way of reporting individual observations and even disease outbreaks. The New England Journal of Medicine has become one of the most prestigious medical journals published today. Dozens of dispatches in the 1800s describe cases of yellow fever, cholera, influenza and other maladies from New Orleans. A brief mention in 1850: “A patient was admitted to the Charity Hospital, in New Orleans, who had, the night previous, melted lead poured into one of his ears while he was asleep.” In recent years case reports from New Orleans have become as rare as hens’ teeth. A parasitologist at the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine authored the last in 1995. It was a letter describing an 11-year-old boy with meningitis caused by a parasite traced to a snail. On a dare the boy ate a live snail plucked from a New Orleans street harboring a parasite that was his ticket to the hospital. He survived. The last case report from LSU in the journal was in 1978. The ageless Dr. Charles Sanders and colleagues reported on a young man who developed muscle breakdown and kidney failure after extreme exercise. This was one of the early reports on what was then termed exercise-induced myoglobinuria. Sometimes a single case report will lead to identification of other similar cases. Some conditions thought to be rare turn out to be not all that uncommon after all. Hopefully this isn’t the case with iced tea and kidney failure. myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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THE BEAT / HEALTHBEAT
In a cooperative agreement announced in the spring, LCMC Health System will pay Jefferson Parish up to $245 million to lease West Jefferson Medical Center and operate its hospitals and clinics for 45 years. According to a press release, a portion is dependent on the hospital’s financial performance in the first three years. Capital improvements, community benefit payments and a partnership agreement to assess and monitor the Westbank community health needs are also included in the collaboration. Current staff will remain and parish residents will have access to the soonto-open University Medical Center, a new regional children’s hospital.
The New Orleans smoking ban took effect in April, making it illegal to smoke in bars, restaurants and casinos. The city council unanimously passed the ban in January, citing health concerns for hospitality industry staff, performers and the general population. According to Time Magazine, New Orleans was one of the last in the United States to allow smoking in bars and restaurants. Along with Harrah’s Casino, bars and restaurants in the French Quarter filed suit with the Civil District Court a few days prior to the ban going into effect. With NOPD removed as an enforcement agency, enforcement of the ban falls to city agencies, such as the department of health, as well as the staff and patrons of bars, who are encouraged to call 311 to file complaints. According to The Times-Picayune, bar and restaurant managers and owners are required to order patrons to stop, but other employees are not. Permits and licenses are at risk for businesses that continue to allow smoking. Vaping is also including in the ban, and fines start at $50 for individuals. – Melanie Warner Spencer 32
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TAKE PEACE OF MIND EVERY TIME YOU LEAVE YOUR HOME. Jasmine Stafford, M.A. 817-600-1760 Licensed in TX and LA jstaffordinsurance@gmail.com
Life Insurance • Disability Insurance • Health Insurance 34
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LOCAL COLOR in tune / READ+SPIN / JAZZ LIFE / JOIE D’EVE / MODINE GUNCH / CHRONICLES / HOME
”Finding our present home in New Orleans was just a happy accident,” Ross McWilliams says. “We weren’t really looking to relocate .. We drove over to take a look ... and that was that.”
HOME pg. 48
LOCAL COLOR / IN TUNE Iceage
Find Your Bonnaroo
Heating Up
The local music scene sizzles all BY mike griffith
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raditionally, the summer is a slow time for music in New Orleans. As the weather gets hotter, both local bands and touring acts tend to drift further north; however, this month a number of outstanding independent acts will pass through town. June begins with several powerful female performances. The British spoken word and hip-hop artist Kate Tempest opens the month with a show at One Eyed Jacks on the 1st. Tempest is a woman of many talents. In addition to her music career, she has directed her powerful flow into theatre and poetry as well. Her narrative poem “Brand New Ancients” won the Ted Hughes Prize in 2013. On June 7 at One Eyed Jacks, Australian singer/songwriter Courtney Barnett will play with Chastity Belt. This is going to be an excellent night of music. Courtney Barnett is touring on her fantastic major label debut, Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit. Her wordsmithing is a cut above others in the genre. Through her attention to the mundane, she makes the personal universal. The album is an appealing balance of truth and humor that’s perfectly delivered with her wonderful vocals and wry wit. Make sure to get there early, as the powerful female punk ensemble Chastity Belt will be an excellent start to the evening. The next night, June 8, British electro pop singer Charlie XCX will be playing at the House of Blues. While she definitely falls on the pop side of the fence, expect a high-energy show with tremendous force and plenty of hooks to follow you around for the rest of the week. Finally, alternative country songstress Brandi Carlile will be at the House of Blues on the 9th. If you’re looking for something a bit harder, on June 8 be sure
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to check out the Danish punk of Iceage. The group is touring on their 2014 record Plowing Into The Field of Love. Also, try Chicago garage rockers Twin Peaks at Gasa Gasa on the 12th. Their high-energy performances are always fantastic to witness. While we’re talking about rock, the Orange County-based psychedelic group The Growlers will be playing One Eyed Jacks, also on June 8. Their record from last September, Chinese Fountain, was one of my favorites from that year. You can follow this up with local favorites Raw Oyster Cult at the Jazz in the Park concert series in Armstrong Park on the 11th.
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For me the focus of June music is always the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee. Taking its name from a slang term popularized by Dr. John on his 1974 record Desitively Bonnaroo, this festival has become the premier U.S. music festival. The event – which grew out of shows that Superfly Presents held here around Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras – has strong ties to New Orleans. This year is no exception, with local acts like Hurray for the Riff Raff joining the national headliners. Keep an eye on my column and twitter in June for coverage of the festival. On June 20 at One Eyed Jacks, check out the post-punk double bill of Ceremony and Tony Molina. This is an excellent double bill; look for influences from everyone from the Ramones to Matthew Sweet. Finally, former lead singer of The Smiths, Morrissey, is coming to the Saenger on June 11. n Note: Dates are subject to change. Playlist of mentioned bands available at: bit.ly/ InTune6-15.
To contact Mike about music news, upcoming performances and recordings, email Mike@MyNewOrleans.com or contact him through Twitter @Minima.
david m cortes photograph
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LOCAL COLOR / READ+SPIN
MEMOIR: In her hilarious memoir, After a While You Just Get Used to It: A Tale of Family Clutter, Gwendolyn Knapp spins tales about her eccentric Florida family. Hoarding, dysfunction and dating dilemmas of epic proportions ensue, and even a move to New Orleans can’t lift what starts to seem like a curse, especially when the author’s mother – along with all of her “collections” – moves to New Orleans to follow her. In the self-deprecating style of David Sedaris, Knapp weaves her upbringing into the story of her attempt to escape her family and struggle to make it in a new city, bouncing the narrative between Florida and New Orleans. Knapp is the editor of Eater NOLA and lives in New Orleans.
COOKBOOK: Chef, host of Travel Channel’s “American Grilled,” James Beard Award finalist and New Orleans-native David Guas Grill Nation: 200 Surefire Recipes, Tips and Techniques to Grill Like a Pro is the perfect gift for your grill-loving dad on Father’s Day. Ideal for the novice or experienced griller, it’s jammed with everything you need to get your grill on.
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COUNTRY-SOUL: The influences of Hank Williams Sr., John Prine and Woody Guthrie are palpable when you tune into music by The Deslondes (formerly Tumbleweeds). The New Orleans band’s debut album with New West Records is due out this month. If the tracks, including “Fought the Blues and Won” and “The Real Deal,” are any indication, every living room in the city will be piping pedal steel and surf organ-infused honky tonk blues through the airwaves. Polish up your two-step, friends.
JAZZ: The Branford Marsalis Quartet re-released its Coltrane’s A Love Supreme: Live in Amsterdam DVD and CD in April. It celebrates the 50th anniversary of the 1965 release of the original John Coltrane “A Love Supreme,” album. This complete performance by Marsalis and his quartet was performed at Amsterdam’s Bimhuis in March 2003 and is a must-have for the collections of fans of Coltrane and Marsalis.
BY melanie warner spencer Please send submissions for consideration, attention: Melanie Spencer, 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005.
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LOCAL COLOR / JAZZ LIFE
UNO Press Delivers Talking the talk of music BY JASON BERRY
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he University of New Orleans has taken a huge financial beating from the Jindal Administration and legislators the last seven years; so has Louisiana State University. As I write in May, the legislature faces a $1.5 billion dollar deficit amid escalating costs in the privatization of public health care, while the governor prepares to run for president. Officials of LSU and other universities are lobbying the legislature to halt deeper cuts that would pierce the bones of survival. In such a time of loss, we should acknowledge one of Louisiana’s pearls: UNO Press. UNO has published novelists Frederick Barton (most recently, In The Wake of the Flagship) and Moira Crone, a series on Austrian studies, works of photography, essays, poetry – and now Talk That Music Talk: Passing on the Brass Band Music in New Orleans the Traditional Way. The 400-page book, sized for the coffee table, features a wealth of black-and-white photographs, in-depth profiles and interviews with musicians, parade club members and youngsters coming up. The last book to attempt the sweep of an encyclopedia was New Orleans Jazz: A Family Album by Al Rose and Edmond Souchon, published by LSU Press 48 years ago; a worthy reference text, long out of print. The book is a “collaborative ethnography” by Bruce Sunpie Barnes, the zydeco blues
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accordionist lately touring with Paul Simon, along with Rachel Breunlin, who pioneered the Neighborhood Story Project books. The list of sponsors includes the New Orleans Jazz Historical Park, Surdna Foundation, the state Division of the Arts, the Arts Council of New Orleans and an array of partners that helped provide photographs. Here are some cameos: •Jerome Smith, founder of Tambourine and Fan Club, recalling Yellow Pocahontas Big Chief Tootie Montana: “I knew Tootie as a person, but got a deeper connection to his gang when my nannan, Ruby, became his queen. That’s when I got a chance to go to his house and meet all the people who sewed [suits.] I got addicted to that sewing because I was able to see something coming from something mysterious from the self – and give that gift.” • Trumpeter Gregg Stafford: “In the Irish Channel, there were white social clubs like the Delachaise Marching Club, Pete Fountain’s HalfFast Marching Club, the Buzzards, Frankie and Johnny’s,and the Lyons’ Club. They were social aid and pleasure clubs for white people, but they hired black brass bands for their parades. ... We would march all around the Irish Channel, criss-crossing with Doc Paulin or the Tuxedo.” •Danny Barker, the balladeer (who died in 1994), is included through a quote from an
interview with the late Tom Dent, courtesy of Amistad Research Center at Tulane: “Most of the riverboats had calliopes. It’s similar to a piano, but it worked by steam with copper keys on it. You had to play it with gloves on, and a rain hat over your uniform because the steam came from all directions. The keys got awfully hot and you had to hit them staccato. Long, whole notes would scorch your fingers. It was a real haunting sound before the city got so commercial with electric wires. Without the noise of the trucks you could heard it real clear. Fate Marable used to give a half-hour concert around seven o’clock before the boat would depart.” •Storyville Stompers snare drummer Ray Lambert: “During Mardi Gras my parents loved to take us to parades on St. Charles Avenue, not far from our house. When those high school bands would pass by – the drum and bugle corps – I wanted to be in it something awful. ... The horns would rest between songs, but those drums didn’t stop. You could feel the pressure. It was like a machine throwing something at you.” Talk That Music Talk is a classic that belongs in every home where people care about the music and its regenerative role. The book is reasonably priced at $35, thanks to a host of grants and funding partners. Ten years ago we wondered if the city would survive after Katrina. Imagine if the music had disappeared. That would really be something tragic to talk about. n
Dr. JenĂŠ Comeaux Ponder Dr. George Comeaux
The father-daughter team of Dr. George Comeaux & Dr. JenĂŠ Comeaux Ponder have been utilizing state of the art technology to provide top quality family dental care for over 50 years combined. Dr. Ponder received her dental degree from LSU School of Dentistry in 2005. Dr. Comeaux received his DDS degree from LSU School of Dentistry in 1975. He earned certification of residency in general dentistry from Charity Hospital in New Orleans in 1977. Both doctors ar are members of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, New Orleans Dental Association, Crescent City Study Club, and have participated in the Donated Dental Services Dental Lifeline Network of Louisiana for numerous years.
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LOCAL COLOR / MODINE’S NEW ORLEANS
House Sitting Uptown style BY MODINE GUNCH
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p North you got snowbirds: retired people who move to somewhere warm and sunny every winter so they don’t have to worry about being in a three-state power outage every time a blizzard rears up, and having to wear overcoats and knit caps inside their own houses. Around here you got conebirds: retired people who move to somewhere high and dry every hurricane season, so they don’t have to worry about being in the cone of uncertainty every time a tropical storm rears up, and having to watch Carl Arredondo like a rabbit watching a snake. This year, my mother-in-law Ms. Larda got a job housesitting Uptown for some conebirds, Baxter and Buttsie McPorsche. It works out good at first, living in a big fancy house. But then she starts getting homesick for own bed, not to mention her own bathroom. “I can’t relax,” she says to me. “There just ain’t no john like a home john, if you know what I mean.” So she asks would I spell her for a couple nights, and I say OK. The night before I go there, me and my gentleman friend Lust watch a TV show about that millionaire who, they say, had a habit of murdering people. Then he wound up in New Orleans. I shouldn’t have watched that. The next day, Lust drops me off at the McPorsches’. Ms. Larda shows me around. “All you got to do is keep things neat and set the house alarm at night. They just want anybody who’s watching to know the house ain’t vacant,” she says.
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Um. “Who’s watching?” I ask. “Nobody’s watching! They just want to make sure, is all,” she says. Then she hands me the house key and leaves. When it gets dark, I lock every door and set the house alarm. I pick up my phone to tell Lust goodnight, but would you believe, it’s dead. And I forgot my charger. Great. And if there’s a house phone, the McPorsches have hid it. I keep calm. I see they got a giant TV, and a whole basket of remotes. I click buttons on all of them, and after around 20 minutes of clicking something comes on the screen. “NCIS New Orleans.” It takes me another 20 minutes, three dead bodies and a car chase to get it off. Just in time to hear footsteps on the porch. I peek out the front window and there’s a man there. Dressed very nice, like that millionaire. But he don’t knock. He bends over, takes something out from under the doormat and then he walks off. Huh? Were the McPorsches dumb enough to leave the house key there? We always hid ours under that plastic dog poo they throw off Mardi Gras floats. I keep calm. If he can steal the key, he can cut the alarm wire. I will just make my own alarm. Ms. Larda herself taught me this trick. I lean an end table against the front door. On top of that I balance a tower of
aluminum pie pans from the kitchen. (Evidently Baxter and Buttsie like Sara Lee.) Then I remember reading that wasp spray is as good as mace. I am calmly rooting around under the kitchen sink looking for some, when I hear a crash from the front door. I freeze. Then I hear footsteps inside the house. I ain’t calm no more. I grab a spray can, and when the kitchen door swings open I leap up spraying. And Ms. Larda chokes in a hail of Lemon Pledge. Then the house alarm goes off. A couple minutes later the police show up. They must of been nearby. One cop wants to know if a lemonade stand exploded. Finally they leave; Ms. Larda heads for the shower and I fix us Irish coffee with a lot of Irish. While we sip it, she explains she got worried when she couldn’t get me on the phone, what with that millionaire and all, so she came back. She thought I might be asleep, so she took the spare key from under the doormat next door. She what? Oh, she didn’t tell me? Around here, what the neighbors do is they all hide their spare keys under each other’s mats, so if a burglar finds one, he won’t know which house it goes to. That explains a lot. Somebody needs to talk to these people about fake dog poo. n
LORI OSIECKI ILLUSTRATION
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LOCAL COLOR / JOIE D’EVE
Caterpillars and Tadpoles
Fear through a child’s eyes BY EVE CRAWFORD PEYTON
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here is something comforting about talking to other New Orleans moms, but because I grew up here and almost all of the moms I know are raising kids here, I sometimes forget how different it can be to spend your childhood in this special city. We moved over the summer to a street with much less traffic than where we were before, and I now feel safe enough to let Ruby walk to her best friend’s house by herself. One day over Carnival season, she came home just a few moments after she left. “Mom,” she said, calmly, “there’s a guy passed out on the acrossthe-street neighbors’ lawn. I’m pretty sure he’s just drunk. Do you think we need to call an ambulance?” I went over and tried to rouse him and then called 911. “I’m sure he’ll be fine,” I told Ruby. “He’s breathing and all. But the paramedics
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can come check him out. Go on and play now.” When Ruby came home a few hours later, she had the full scoop. “I stopped and talked to the neighbors,” she said, “and they told me that yeah, he’d been drunk. The ambulance guys said he was OK, and they let him sit on their porch and eat some pancakes ’til he could make it home.” “Cool,” I said. “Glad he was all right. Can you promise me that you will never get that drunk? It doesn’t always end well, OK?” “Yep,” she agreed, and then turned on Nickelodeon. When I told this story to a friend of mine who’s raising two kids in the St. Louis suburbs, he was concerned. I can see his perspective, but I don’t share it. Ruby learned several things from this whole drunk-guypassed-out-on-the-lawn affair. She learned the value of looking out for one another. She learned about the hazards of bingedrinking. She learned that more often than not, New Orleanians will feed your drunk ass pancakes and help you out but that you can’t count on that. She’s also not afraid of graveyards; neither was I. My childhood backyard backed right up to the cemeteries. You could climb two fences and be inside, and sometimes I would do just that because there were always lots of clovers in the cemetery that I could pick and make into necklaces. And I used to roller-skate in St. Patrick Mausoleum because the floor there was much smoother than any New Orleans sidewalk. None of this struck me as morbid or weird until a Mis-
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souri friend of mine yelled at me for not holding my breath one autumn day as we drove past a graveyard in Columbia, a superstition I had never heard of before and one of the few I refuse to adopt. Likewise, Ruby and her friends have played hide-and-seek in graveyards and caught tadpoles in one particularly deep puddle near the endlessly fascinating Holt Cemetery in Lakeview. Her school used to be across the street from St. Louis No. 3, and we would sometimes buy popsicles at Terranova’s and stroll through the graveyard eating them. None of this seems sacrilegious or disrespectful to me – it’s just a part of New Orleans, incorporating the past into today, continuing to go on living amidst death and loss. I am not suggesting that New Orleans kids are any more fearless than their Midwestern counterparts – just different. Ruby might be unfazed by her encounter with the unconscious guy on the lawn, but she refuses to walk a certain way to or from her best friend’s house right now because of caterpillars. “Oh, my God, Mommy, kill it kill it kill it!” she will shriek if she sees one, and the same child who so nonchalantly said, “I’m pretty sure he’s just drunk” will not stop screaming until I have stomped on the caterpillar and kicked it into the street. Childhood fears often fade, though, whatever they are, and I hope, as the years pass, they both grow up well-rounded, not scared of ghosts or bugs – and with the generosity of spirit to offer pancakes to those in need. n
Excerpted from Eve Crawford Peyton’s blog, Joie d’Eve, which appears each Friday on MyNewOrleans.com.
jane sanders ILLUSTRATION
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LOCAL COLOR / Chronicles
The Scent of Vetiver Making New Orleanians smell good BY CAROLYN KOLB
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ick Yokum, his brother Peter and sister Julie always had a treat in store when they went to visit their grandmother in the French Quarter: Everything there smelled so good! Mrs. Lilian Hovey-King and her longtime assistant Susie Smith specialized in delicious odors – they created perfumes. King’s father had been a cavalry officer and her mother was a Creole, and from that romantic combination a perfume-maker evolved. Her husband had owned two Vieux Carré buildings, 723 Toulouse St. and 824 Royal St., and after she began Hové Parfumeur in 1931, she located her first shop on Toulouse Street. She was widowed in ’38, and eventually the business went into the hands of her daughter, Rita King Yokum. By the ’70s, the
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shop moved to the Royal Street address. In his mother’s time, Nick, whose own career was in shipping, occasionally worked in the shop, “mostly just greeting customers.” While Peter Yokum would become an artist, their sister Julie took perfume-making as her career, succeeding her mother and continuing it until her own death, at which point she left the shop to her husband, who eventually sold it to his niece Amy Wendel. Under this current ownership, the shop moved from Yokum’s building to its current location at 434 Chartres St., with another store in Destin, Florida. New Orleans was always a place in love with perfume – when The TimesPicayune’s predecessor began publishing in 1837, one of the earliest ads was for a
perfume shop: Rees and D’Lange, at 18 Camp St., advertised “a splendid variety of perfumery.” By the 1840s, several shops specialized in perfume. Also in the 19th century, Auguste Doussan, who hailed from Grasse, France (center of the French perfume industry), would open his own shop on Chartres Street between Conti and St. Louis steets. An 1868 ad mentions that he won a silver medal and a premium award at “the grand fair of 1863” for “the best soaps and perfumeries.” His shop would become today’s Bourbon French Parfum Shop, 805 Royal St. owned and operated since 1991 by Mary Behlar. Behlar acquired the shop from Alessandra Crain, who had inherited the shop and stayed on for a year after the sale to train Behlar. What she learned to do was mix perfume, brewing up scented oils and alcohol into just the right combination for the perfect scent. And, she learned to mix special New Orleans old-fashioned aromas, like vetiver, that are still popular on local shops’ sales list. Vetiver is actually a grass, but its roots are aromatic. The spicey-woodsey scent of vetiver is a familiar odor to generations of New Orleanians who remember little dried bundles of vetiver root folded in with their stored linens. It isn’t just for the odor, vetiver also is an insecticide, says entomologist Dr. Gregg Henderson of the LSU AgCenter, who has studied the plant. While vetiver-scented products are readily available at the Bourbon French Parfum shop, Coleen Landry markets actual vetiver root bundles at Laura Plantation. Landry still tends her grandfather’s vetiver up River Road at Perilloux Place, carefully digging and washing the roots. “To refresh vetiver, just dip it in warm water and dry in the sun. It smells as good as new,” she says. Professor Henderson has “about a hundred” vetiver plants trimmed as a hedge at his home near St. Gabriel, not far from Louisiana’s largest vetiver farmer, Eugene LeBlanc of Sunshine. Henderson, along with the late local flower grower Donald Heumann, were known as champions of vetiver’s prowess in erosion control. Happily, as Landry notes, we can all see some vetiver growing, planted along with Louisiana irises, on the islands in the little lake at LaFreniere Park in Jefferson Parish. n
photo Courtesy Rudolf Hertzberg Louisiana Architecture Photographs, Southeastern Architectural Archive, Special Collections Division, Tulane University Libraries.
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LOCAL COLOR / HOME
Capitol Gain
Finding this home was a “happy accident” BY BONNIE WARREN PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHERYL GERBER
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wning a three-story mansion on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., may seem like the ultimate achievement for a successful couple like Ross McWilliams and Jim Simpson, but the Lower Garden District home they own in New Orleans makes their choices of residential property amazing. “It’s the best of both worlds to also own an historic home in the Lower Garden District,” says Jim, as he sits on the back porch of the 1866 home on a quiet street just a block from the Garden District. Both Ross and Jim are involved in real es-
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tate in Washington, so you can be sure both of their homes are special. “Finding our present home in New Orleans was just a happy accident,” Ross says. “We weren’t really looking to relocate from the home we owned in the Marigny Triangle, but termites drove us out of our place for six months and a friend who lives near us in D.C. and owns the house next door to the Lower Garden District home we now own told us about the house that was being restored. We drove over to take a look and while we were standing out
ABOVE: The back porch overlooks the patio and swimming pool.
TOP, LEFT: French doors flanking the fireplace open onto the rear porch. TOP, RIGHT: Ross McWilliams and Jim Simpson with Ellie Mae, their Labrador Retriever. BOTTOM, RIGHT: The back porch is a favorite relaxing retreat for the homeowners.
front, Guy Carpenter of Supreme Restorations, who had bought the home when the long-time owner died, drove up and showed us the house – and that was that. We bought the house.” “Guy had already gotten the exterior porches back on and had put the exterior back together and painted the house,” Jim says. “So we basically had a blank slate for the interior and yard. I don’t think we could have achieved the end result without Guy’s input and assistance. He made the process a good adventure.” The property is part of the land of a former plantation and went through several owners before the present house was built by Edward Beebe, a sugar broker. “The second owner was Benjamin Franklin Flanders, who was the Mayor of New Orleans at the time.” Jim says. “Flanders was appointed Mayor by carpetbagger Governor Henry Clay Warmoth. He then was elected to a twoyear term as Mayor, and later President Ulysses S. Grant named him assistant treasurer of the United States at New Orleans.
FACING PAGE: TOP, LEFT: The master bedroom features antiques and lush linens. TOP, RIGHT: The walls in the study are painted a rich brown; the antique French poster over the fireplace, advertising breath mints, adds to the drama of the room. BOTTOM, LEFT: A pair of comfortable sofas flank the fireplace in the living room; a dramatic antique French poster hangs over the fireplace. BOTTOM, RIGHT: The master bathroom features a soaking tub and a separate shower. ABOVE: The sleek modern kitchen at the rear of the house features custom antiqued white cabinets.
The complete researched history of the house also provided us the tidbit of information that it was Flanders who welcomed the first Rex and the Grand Duke Alexis of Russia for the 1872 Mardi Gras.” Both Ross and Jim marvel at their good fortune to find such a wonderful house. “Having lived in the Marigny Triangle before relocating the Lower Garden District, it’s the trees and the space of our home that I like the most,” Ross says, while Jim adds, “When I’m walking our dog in the Lower Garden District and the Garden District, I never fail to see something remarkable that I’ve never noticed before.” Ross and Jim enjoyed acquiring the eclectic furnishing for the home. “We sourced antiques from local dealers such as DOP Antiques and Renaissance Antiques; new furnishing from Doerr Furniture and Eclectic Home; floor covering from Modern Carpet and Nola Rugs; and the lush window treatments from Katie
Koch.” Jim says. “Most of our major art pieces are from Orange Gallery on Royal Street.” Landscape architect Peter Raarup is credited with the design of the yard. “He gave us a great design plan that captured the look and feel that we wanted,” Ross says. “The warm climate garden and plantings are an escape from winters in D.C.” Jim’s favorite space in the home is the back porch. “The exposure and light are terrific combined with the fragrances from the garden and the relaxing splash of the fountains in the swimming pool,” Jim says. “I like the entire rear side of the house, and the way the kitchen and den open up to the porch, garden and pool,” Ross adds. “The character of the home and neighborhood just makes for a comfortable environment,” Ross says. And, both agree that their Lower Garden District home and living part of the time in New Orleans is a wonderful respite from the pace of D.C. n myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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Best New Restaurants They Keep on Coming
Photographed by Marianna Massey | Photography Assistant Scott Williams
Discussing the opening of a new restaurant is one of the area’s favorite topics, only the subject matter is becoming overwhelming. Keeping track of all that’s new involves both perception and an appetite. That is what we’re here for! Our selection process consisted of a gathering of our food writing and editorial staff, fittingly, over lunch. The judgments are subjective but based on a range of dining experience. From minds that are fixated on the art of dining comes these, our choices:
Charbroiled oysters from Sac-a-Lait
PI CK TO P OU R Israeli Salads and Spreads with Wood Fired Pita Bread
Shaya Star Cuisine
Background Alon Shaya, 2015 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef South, was born in Israel and has always maintained a deep connection to its cuisine. Even so, he didn’t intentionally set out to open an Israeli restaurant. But while scouting a location for a second Pizza Domenica with his business partner Octavio Mantilla, the pair stepped into the space at 4213 Magazine St., and it just clicked. “Octavio said that this was just the perfect building,” Shaya recalls. “He told me we need to do something big with this.” And why not? Shaya had already tested the waters with his Passover menu at Domenica, which was well-received. Israeli food is presently enjoying time in the national limelight. Its novelty to the local restaurant scene makes it intriguing. But its diversity is perhaps the biggest surprise. “Israel is made up of about 60 different cultures, and with that comes about 60 different cuisines,” Shaya explains. Turkish, Yemenite, Greek and Polish are but a few and the flavors are incredibly vertical in their profiles. Add to that Shaya’s contemporary topspin, and it’s as if a whole new category of restaurant dining appeared overnight.
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Food Start with a selection of his hummus and tahini, served with house-made pita. The Curried Cauliflower makes use of hawaij, a complex Yemenite spice blend. His Kibbeh Nayah, a beef and lamb tartare, is redolent with Baharat, a Lebanese mixture of allspice, black pepper and clove, among others. His Short Rib Tagine features local candied citrus in lieu of the more traditional dried fruit for this North African Dish.
Ambience Shaya took over a location that already exuded a contemporary, Mediterranean feel. To make the space his own (and also to fire his pita), Shaya put in a striking wood-burning oven, which anchors the ground floor. Sound-absorbing panels covered in patterned blue fabric were installed along one wall, while candles and flowers soften the other. The second floor features a pastry and prep kitchen as well as a pair of banquette rooms, perfect for special occasions. – Jay Forman
below, left: Short Rib Tagine right: Shakshouka
4213 Magazine St., 891-4213, ShayaRestaurant.com | Lunch and Dinner daily | Upscale Casual | Modern Israeli
left: Mississippi Lamb Shoulder right: Burrata
1000 Figs Falafel and Beyond Background The Fat Falafel truck started prowling around New Orleans around three years ago, serving the eponymous fava/ chickpea fritter and little else. Last year, Theresa Galli and Gavin Cady parked the truck for a while and opened a little place off Esplanade Avenue, 1000 Figs. The restaurant is located up a flight of stairs from the ground-level entrance, and while the space is small, it’s charming and they’re using it efficiently. There is seating at a counter that runs along the window looking out onto Esplanade Avenue, and each table has a small drawer for silverware.
Food You can still order one of the best falafel in town at 1000 figs, but unlike the food truck days, not everything is vegetarian. The menu changes, but when there’s grilled squid on the menu, I’m ordering it, and the same goes for the lamb-heart kebabs that were available on one of my visits. What is exceptional about the place, though, is that even items that some restaurants treat as decorative – a raw slaw made with root vegetables like beet, carrot and jicama – tastes great. The bread, both the pita-like flatbread and the loaves the restaurant contracts out, is excellent, and while 1000 Figs doesn’t have a liquor license as I write, you can find an excellent selection of wines and beer at Swirl, just one door down. (There is no corkage fee.)
Ambiance I have eaten at 1000 Figs on a number of occasions, and I don’t remember ever being there when more than one person was working the “front of house.” Part of that is the size of the place – I’m not sure where they’d put a waiter – but part of it also seems to be the general DIY spirit going on. Overall, 1000 Figs does what all restaurants should do; it welcomes and restores you. – Robert Peyton
3141 Ponce de Leon St. | 301-0848 | 1000Figs.com | Lunch and Dinner Tuesdays-Saturdays | Casual | Mediterranean
left: Mississippi Rabbit Milanese top: Butterbean Tortellini bottom: Winter Citrus Posset
Angeline Southern Goes Native Background Though New Orleans really isn’t a “Southern” town, which surprises a lot of people, it doesn’t mean we’re turned off to the idea of Southern cuisine. We are open to a very happy culinary and cultural marriage when someone comes to town from the South and uses their background alongside our beloved and indigenous ingredients. Chef Alex Harrell, a lad from South Alabama, has been with us since the late 1990s and is now making quite the statement with his new restaurant, Angeline. He has successfully merged the flavors of his youth with the culinary styles of New Orleans in contemporary, comfortable surroundings that fully respect the grace of the French Quarter.
Food To begin, Southern Fried Quail is set with local honey and a spicy sauce made in-house. Sherry Glazed Shrimp, a nod to New Orleans’ Spanish roots, seem perfectly at home with local greens and fried lemon. For the main courses, Louisiana Blue Crab is set in linguini punctuated with Serrano, crab butter and Florida bottarga, a mullet roe. The Mississippi Rabbit Milanese is accompanied by a smoked carrot purée, spoon bread and bacon braised collards, along with a tomato gravy. Chef Harrell blends “the Souths:” Italy and America. The rest of the menu is a fascinating blend of who we were, who we are and those diverse Old World countries from which we all hail.
Ambience Angeline is located in the Hotel Provincial, the same space previously occupied by Stella! restaurant for many years. Parking is available on-site. The restaurant décor has been upgraded and updated from its previous occupant and is more approachable, not as haughty. The bar is staffed by talented and completely competent professionals; their Gin & Tonic rings bells, likely because they make their own tonic. A more elegant expression of that drink isn’t to be had anywhere in town. – Tim McNally
1032 Chartres St. | 308-3106 | AngelineNola.com | Dinner nightly | Dressy casual | Southern
left: Pan Seared Cobia right: Roasted Lamb Loin
Balise Merger of Classics and Inventiveness
Background Justin Devillier and his wife Mia are the kind of folks you want to see succeed. They are committed to New Orleans, they make great food and their first restaurant, La Petite Grocery, has been a hit pretty much since it opened. Devillier’s food is grounded in classic technique; he and his staff, which includes Paul DiMaria, Trip Hartsell and Mark Falgoust, know when to stick to the classics and when they can take flight. At Balise, Devillier’s recently opened restaurant in the CBD, they’re getting that balance right.
Food The menu isn’t large; it’s dominated by entremets and garde manger, which in this case means small plates, salads and, generally, appetizers. Highlights include spicy fried chicken wings with Brussels sprouts, fish sauce and peanuts. I have enjoyed the venison tartare – another example of a classic married to inventiveness – as the main course of a threecourse lunch. The options change with what’s available; an early spring appetizer that featured sea urchin gave way a few weeks later to something else, equally fresh. Entrées are no less impressive, and they change pretty often as well; roasted lamb loin that came with brown butter and lemon when I first dined at Balise is, as I write, accompanied by a celery root purée, maiitake mushrooms and hazelnuts. The fried flounder with celery root remoulade and charred napa cabbage has remained a constant, but the grilled sirloin strip steak comes with dauphine potatoes and grilled scallions rather than the caponata, pine nuts and arugula I first saw.
Ambience Balise is located in the space formerly occupied by Ditcharo’s; the bones are still there, but if you haven’t been, you should, if only to see what the place looks like now. The first floor has two dining rooms, one with a bar and one behind the stairs that lead to the second floor, which has another dining room and a wrap-around balcony. The craft cocktail menu is run by bar manager Jesse Carr. The drinks are interesting without being interesting, if you catch my meaning, and there’s a fine selection of beer and wine as well. – R.P.
640 Carondelet St. | 459-4449 | BaliseNola.com | Lunch Mondays-Fridays; Dinner Mondays-Saturdays | Inventive Small Plates | Casual
left: Beef Tartare right: Rabbit & Dumplings
Brown Butter Flavors of the South
Background After working for years in and around New Orleans, friends Dayne Womax and Simon Beck decided to team up and open up a progressive restaurant spotlighting the regional cuisines that make up the American South with casual appeal. All they needed was a location. And when Beck peeked through the window of a shuttered Wow Wingery at 231 N. Carrollton Ave. a while back, he knew that he found the right place. Brown Butter was born.
Food They opened with a lunch menu that offered creative fare like a Chicken and Waffle Sandwich accompanied by a house-made Steen’s mustard glaze. More recently they added dinner service, with a more ambitious menu featuring choices such as Rabbit and Dumplings with Cornbread ‘Gnocchi’ as well as a dolled-up Pork and Beans made with pork belly and cannellini beans. Helping Womax to execute the dinner menu is his sous chef Trey Herty, who came over from Square Root and has also worked at the highly regarded charcuterie and butcher shop The Publican in Chicago. “He is super-talented,” says Womax. “I’m just really glad he’s my friend.”
Ambience Womax and Beck stepped into a place in good working order, but also one that was clearly set up to be a wing shop. “It had a big triple bay fryer and a grill and that was it,” Womax recalls. “I had to figure out a way to fit everything we needed for a full-service restaurant right there under that hood. We did it, but it was a challenge.” For the front they recovered the red vinyl booths with quality material, swapped out the chairs and took down the array of big-screen TVs that surrounded the dining room. To cover the outlets they hung paintings by their friends on the walls, a quick fix that has since turned into a talking point as others have requested the duo to showcase their art in the space. Homemade sodas, original cocktails and micro-brews round out the appeal. – J.F.
231 N. Carrollton Ave. | Suite C | 609-3871 | BrownButterRestaurant.com | Lunch Tuesdays-Sundays; Dinner Thursdays-Saturdays; Brunch Sundays | Casual | Southern
left: Vegetable Poke and Loco Moco right: Navy Grog
Latitude 29 Tops in Tiki Background Tiki culture, which had its birth in the 1930s, is supposed to be about a fictionalized portrait of civilization in the Southern Pacific – and there ends any attempt at authenticity. What Tiki actually ends up being is something fun and informal, offering hints of friendly natives, swaying palm trees and islands warmed by tropical sun. This amazingly creative and completely competent restaurant satisfies all the senses with visual treats; magical elixirs from the bar, all based on fresh ingredients; and cuisine that adds to and carries through on the theme. The most famous restaurant of this style to ever grace our city, the beloved Bali Ha’i at the now defunct Pontchartrain Beach amusement park, has nothing on Latitude 29.
Food At Latitude 29, named because New Orleans sits just over the Earth’s 29th parallel latitude, with an added bonus in that the restaurant is in the Bienville House Hotel, across the street from New Orleans Fire Department Engine Company 29, the food and the drinks are of equal stature. Relish a real Mai-Tai, properly constructed, like you’ve never had before; or savor authentically correct versions of Planter’s Punch, Nui Nui and Navy Grog. On the dining menu, don’t fail to order the Pork Ribs with a Taro Chip accompaniment, which comes with Sriracha Mayonnaise and Kimchi Ketchup dips. Main courses include Soba (chilled buckwheat noodles with avocado), Bahn Mi, Tahitian Steak Frites and Crispy Duck, among other tasty offerings.
Ambience Tiki isn’t only a beverage and culinary statement, it’s a design motif. Bamboo is everywhere, along with thatch roof accents. All the service items reflect the main theme with no end to South Sea Island faux maori statues depicted everywhere, even with the service “glassware.” The proprietor, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, is a part of the scenery, as is his capable and talented staff, which includes his wife, Annene. The Berrys moved to New Orleans several years ago from California after the publication of six volumes about Tiki. According to both of them, “This city is where we were always supposed to be.” – T.M.
321 N. Peters St. | 609-3811 | Latitude29Nola.com | Lunch Fridays and Saturdays; Dinner daily | Casual | Tiki
left: Beet Salad right: Farm Egg Pizza
Paladar 511 West Coast Meets New Orleans
Background What New Orleanians have long known is that just because a restaurant is described as “neighborhood,” doesn’t mean it isn’t a great place to dine. Every neighborhood in town is littered with dining establishments that draw at least part of their charm and reason for existence from their location. Paladar 511 settles into that groove comfortably, although at first glance it isn’t apparent. The interior isn’t reflective of the historic and traditional Bywater or the neighboring Marigny. It is quite overstated, with old brick walls, high ceilings, soaring windows and chandeliers. But none of that is what this place is all about. The name, in Spanish, refers to family-run dining establishments where everyone does everything. The division of labor is non-existent. When you’re on staff here, you’re family and you’re doing it all.
Food While Jack Murphy, Ed Dunn and Susan Dunn, all non-natives but lovers of the city, started planning for a different type of New Orleans restaurant over two years ago, one of the mainstay dishes was going to be pizza. Jack owns and operates a pizza restaurant in San Francisco so, incorporating the do-what-you-know approach, pizza, distinguished by absolutely the freshest toppings available, was a key part of what was going to be. They didn’t foresee the veritable explosion of restaurants in town that were going to serve pizza. They were not deterred and continued to expand the California-based concept of other fresh food items. Native ingredients like fresh tuna revved to new heights by slices of avocado and chopped pistachios, or braised pork over turnips, or pan-seared grouper on a bed of black-eye peas bring a local flair to national dishes. The menu’s emphasis on “fresh” results in frequent changes making for interesting and diverse dining experiences on every visit.
Ambience The restaurant's layout is both comfortable and on the upper-end of interior design considering what else is in the area. From the soaring ceiling and multiple types of lighting to the cool color palate, the space manages to be at once cozy and open. But make no mistake, Paladar 511 is all about family and neighbors. – T.M.
511 Marigny St. | 509-6782 | Paladar511.com | Dinner Mondays and Wednesdays-Sundays | Casual | West Coast meets New Orleans
left: Delta Corn Tamale right: Chocolate Marquise
Purloo Culture Mixed With Traditions Background Chef Ryan Hughes is from Ohio, originally, which makes his interest in Southern food a bit odd. But Hughes got started cooking professionally for acclaimed chef Louis Osteen in Charleston, South Carolina, and his native curiosity led him to delve into the local cuisine. From the first time I met Hughes, when he was the chef at Café Degas, what struck me was his interest not just in the methods and techniques of cooking, nor his relationships with the farmers and other purveyors from whom he obtained ingredients. Hughes was interested in the culture and traditions behind the food he cooks. That makes him a perfect fit to run the restaurant inside the Southern Food & Beverage Museum, Purloo.
Food At Purloo, Hughes cooks pan-Southern food, but at any given time you’ll also see influences from all over the world. The goat served in a curry sauce with lemongrass, coriander and sweet potatoes comes with Vietnamese bread. In one memorable dish, Hughes added ground cardamom to the grits that served as the base for a pan-seared fillet of drum garnished with an artichoke barigoule and fried pickles. The Southern standards are excellent, of course. The fried chicken with tasso macaroni and cheese is outstanding, and the low country she-crab soup made with a labor-intensive crab stock is unbelievably delicious. Early on, Hughes conceived of a program by which chefs from other Southern states would come to Purloo and cook their native food, all while learning about our local traditions. Depending on when you go, you might see dishes from Kentucky featured; a month later the food of Mississippi might be the focus.
Ambiance A sheer curtain hanging from the high ceiling is all that separates the dining room from the main display area of the museum, and the bar was salvaged from Bruning’s, a restaurant that long-graced the city’s lakefront. The best seat in the house is on one of the many stools that surround the entirely open kitchen, where you can interact with Hughes and his team as they prepare your meal. Purloo was a long time in the works, but now that it’s here, it’s proving a showcase for the team Ryan Hughes has put together. – R.P.
Purloo | 1504 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. | 324-6020 | NolaPurloo.com | Casual | Upscale Southern
Whole Roasted Gulf Fish
White and Green Asparagus
Duck Chaudin
Too New To Review New to the Scene and Showing Lots of Promise
Sac-a-Lait One of the more anticipated openings of 2015 took place in March when Cody and Samantha Carroll opened Sac-a-Lait. Owners of the highly regarded Hot Tails restaurant in New Roads, Louisiana, the husband and wife team have been steadily collecting awards and accolades as they looked to expand. The former Sun Ray Grill has been recast into a striking fine-dining destination that should be a good fit for the competitive Warehouse District dining scene. The menu is Cajun and Southern with a heavy dose of the outdoors. Dishes to try include the Turtle Boudin, made with duck egg risotto and sherry-spiked sauce piquant, as well as the Whole Stuffed Flounder, where the traditional stuffing gets swapped out with Oysters Rockefeller and a Herbsaint-infused citronelle. An expansive oyster bar and specialty cocktails add to the appeal.
1051 Annunciation St., 324-3658, Sac-A-LaitRestaurant.com Upscale | Cajun-Southern
Saveur Chef Dominique Macquet recently partnered with restauranteur Kimble Donington-Smith to open Saveur on Magazine Street in Uptown. Here at Macquet’s latest venue he prepares his distinctive style of Mauritius-infused contemporary French fare that makes great use of his extensive network of local purveyors. Signature dishes include the Whole Roasted Gulf Fish, recently yellowtail snapper that was paired with local bok choy, Perrilloux Farms carrots and organic farrow. The remoulade for his Jumbo Lump Crab Salad uses an emulsion of oven-dried tomatoes and infused olive oil in lieu of ketchup, adding depth to the sauce, with Kaffir lime oil and house-grown peppers providing kick. The breezy, contemporary space, formerly Baie Rouge, complements Macquet’s style of cooking.
Kin New Orleans-native Hieu Than spent time in the kitchen of Tom Colicchio’s Craftbar in Manhattan before returning home to work alongside Sue Zemanik at Gautreau’s. He later teamed up with Nate Nguyen to open Kin, a jewel box of a restaurant in a former soul food restaurant on Washington Avenue near Jeff Davis Parkway. The menu is both ambitious and highly refined, with dishes such as Sugarcane Skewered Lamb with mint and pinenut pesto paired with a coconut and galangal sauce. Galangal, a relative of ginger with a more assertive bite, adds an extra element of flavor. Overall the menu is very intelligent, and this compact restaurant is fully furnished with both equipment and talent. Though small, expect big things from Kin going forward. – J.F.
4128 Magazine St., 304-3667, SaveurNola.com Upscale Casual | Contemporary French
4600 Washington Ave., 304-8557 Upscale Casual American Contemporary
TOP DENTIST BRU
SHING UP
T S I OUR L
Once again we have set out to determine who are the area’s top dentists. In doing so, we have commissioned the services of topDentists, a national firm specializing in such information. It is important to us that readers are aware of the methodology, so here it is as provided by topDentists. Use the list as a guide. As always, it's good to check with others who might have used a dentist’s services. That is always a good drill.
SELECTION PROCESS: “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?” This is the question we’ve asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and of course physical results. The nomination pool of dentists consists of all dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as all dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists who we have missed that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put
aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peers' work when evaluating the other nominees. Voters are asked to individually evaluate on their ballot the practitioners whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given a careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received, status in various dental academies (Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Periodontology, etc.) can play a factor in our decision. Once the decisions have been finalized,
the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists. Of course there are many fine dentists not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate and useful list of dentists available anywhere. (Introduction and Selection Process provided by topDentists.)
Endodontics
Covington Allen Sawyer Sawyer Endodontics 216 W. 21st Ave. (985) 327-7354 SawyerEndo.com Kenner David Joseph Toca 2301 Williams Blvd., Suite B 466-3353 Mandeville Catherine A. Hebert Endodontic Center 4600 Highway 22, Suite Four (985) 626-0111 EndodonticCenter.com Charles O. Roy Northshore Endodontics 1510 W. Causeway Approach, Suite C (985) 674-0060 Metairie Dominick J. Alongi Northlake Endodontics & Microsurgery 3621 Ridgelake Drive, Suite 301 832-2433 NorthlakeEndo.com Barry James Cazaubon Endodontic Specialists 4520 Clearview Parkway 885-0177 NewOrleansEndo.com Garrett B. Morris Endodontic Specialists 4520 Clearview Parkway 885-0177 NewOrleansEndo.com New Orleans George H. Arch Jr. Uptown Endodontics and Implantology 2633 Napoleon Ave., Suite 701 895-1100 Lisa P. Germain Uptown Endodontics and Implantology 2633 Napoleon Ave., Suite 701 895-1100 Slidell Scott E. Bonson Endodontic Associates 190 Cross Gates Blvd. (985) 649-4881 SlidellEndo.com Arthur W. Dickerson II Endodontic Associates 190 Cross Gates Blvd. (985) 649-4881 SlidellEndo.com Thomas McCall Flint Endodontic Associates 190 Cross Gates Blvd. (985) 649-4881 SlidellEndo.com
J. Jared Harmon Lakeshore Endodontics 102 Village St., Suite B (985) 643-4600 LakeshoreEndodontics.com
Sue C. LeBlanc Hammond Family Dentistry 1007 W. Thomas St., Suite E (985) 345-8602 HammondFamilyDentist.com
Darlene T. Bassett Sherwood Dentistry 2316 Metairie Road 833-9552 SherwoodDentistry.com
General Dentistry
Jill Truxillo Beautiful Smiles 20204 Highway 190 E. (985) 662-5550
George Philip Cerniglia 2727 Houma Blvd., Suite A 454-5880 DrCerniglia.com *Cosmetic services offered
Belle Chasse Stuart J. Guey Jr. 8951 Highway 23 394-6200 DrGuey.com Charles Haydel 8635 Highway 23 394-7456
Bogalusa Charles R. Mehle Jr. 310 Mississippi Ave. (985) 735-9811 Covington Mary A. Beilman 426 S. Tyler St. (985) 893-5138 DrBeilman.com Edward P. Burvant Jr. Burvant Family Dentistry 601 W. 18th Ave. (985) 892-2403 Joel E. Burvant Burvant Family Dentistry 601 W. 18th Ave. (985) 892-2403 Kathleen G. Engel 522 E. Rutland St. (985) 893-2270 *Cosmetic services offered R. Glen Spell Family Dental Center 79132 Highway 40 (985) 893-3900 Gretna Brian D. Connell Connell Dental Care 137 Bellemeade Blvd. 392-0221 ConnellDentalCare.com *Cosmetic services offered Damon Joel DiMarco 309 Gretna Blvd. 366-5611 *Cosmetic services offered Peter M. Tufton Tufton Family Dentistry 654 Terry Parkway 362-5270 TuftonDDS.com Hammond Bryan P. Daigle 1502 Martens Drive (985) 345-4242 Eugene R. Graff Jr. Louisiana Dental Center Hammond 800 C M Fagan Drive, Suite A (985) 345-5888 LaDentalCenter.com
Jefferson Charles Marion Jouandot Jefferson Dental Care 3809 Jefferson Highway 833-2211 JeffersonDentalCare.com Kenner James D. Roethele Roethele Dental Esthetics 283 W. Esplanade Ave. 461-0500 RoetheleDental.com *Cosmetic services offered Madisonville Charles B. Foy Jr. 400 Pine St. (985) 845-8042 FoyFamilyDentistry.com *Cosmetic services offered Melissa Hernandez Pellegrini Pellegrini Family Dentistry 198 Highway 21 (985) 845-2992 PellegriniDDS.com Mandeville Martha Anne Carr 224 W. Causeway Approach (985) 727-0047 MarthaCarrDDS.com Glen J. Corcoran 3701 Highway 59, Suite E (985) 871-9733 Gabriel F. Daroca III 2140 Ninth St. (985) 624-8268 Joseph F. Fitzpatrick 2900 E. Causeway Approach, Suite E (985) 626-9791 Toby B. Moffatt 1510 W. Causeway Approach, Suite A (985) 727-4848 Dennis R. Preau 2140 Ninth St. (985) 624-8268 Marrero Maria Ribando Burmaster Barataria Dental 2272 Barataria Blvd. 341-3120 BaratariaDental.com Metairie Debra Claire Arnold 2732 Athania Parkway 837-4992
Hunter Lynn Charvet Sr. Charvet Dental Center 2300 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 834-6504 DrCharvet.com *Cosmetic services offered Joseph John Collura Jr. 3939 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite 104 837-9800 DrCollura.com *Cosmetic services offered George T. Comeaux Jr. 2620 Metairie Road 834-2180 TrĂŠ J. DeFelice DeFelice Dental 1900 N. Causeway Blvd. 833-4300 Duane P. Delaune Delaune Dental, the Art of Smiles 3801 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite 305 885-8869 DelauneDental.com *Cosmetic services offered Shelly Ereth-Barone GNO Dental Care 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 105-A 832-1164 GNODentalCare.com Terry F. Fugetta 4508 Clearview Parkway, Suite 1-A 454-7008 Nicole Hurban Hunn 3108 W. Esplanade Ave. 838-8118 Eva L. Jessup Clearview Dental Care 2221 Clearview Parkway, Suite 202 455-1667 ClearviewDentalCare.com Wynn Kapit 3024 Kingman St. 455-2984 Nanette LoCoco 4325 Loveland St., Suite B 888-9333 MetairieDentistLococo.com Troy L. Patterson Oak Family Dental 1001 N. Causeway Blvd. 834-6410
OakFamilyDental.com
486-2876
*Cosmetic services offered
Jené Comeaux Ponder 2620 Metairie Road 834-2180
Jay Christopher Dumas Daughters of Charity 3201 S. Carrollton Ave. 941-6079
Elizabeth E. Riggs 3442 Magazine St. 891-1115 SmilesByRiggs.com *Cosmetic services offered
Garry Stephen Salvaggio Salvaggio Dental Care 3223 Eighth St., Suite 202 455-7717 SmileGenesis.com *Cosmetic services offered John C. Schwartz Schwartz Dental Group 337 Metairie Road, Suite 302 832-2043 DrJohnSchwartz.com *Cosmetic services offered Ryan Michael Thibodaux Second Line Family Dentistry 815 N. Causeway Blvd. 833-2220 SecondLineFamilyDentistry.com Gerard R. Tully Jr. 701 Metairie Road, Suite 2A-212 831-4837 Corky Willhite The Smile Design Center 111 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 777 831-1131 SmileDesignCenter.com *Cosmetic services offered New Orleans Mark David Anderson MidCity Smiles Family Dentistry 3625 Canal St. 485-6575 MidCitySmiles.com *Cosmetic services offered
John Raymond Gallo LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave., Suite 137 941-8110 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu Dov Glazer 3525 Prytania St., Suite 312 895-1137 Glazers.net Leslie Parro Gottsegen 2633 Napoleon Ave., Suite 610 891-5000 Henry A. Gremillion LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 619-8500 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu Eric Hovland LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 619-8500 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu William E. Kramer III 2801 Napoleon Ave., Suite A 891-2826 WilliamKramerIIIDDS.com Susan S. Lebon 2633 Napoleon Ave., Suite 605 899-5400 Edward E. Levy III 7037 Canal Blvd., Suite 206-207 283-5549
Donald Phillip Bennett 1010 Common St., Suite 810 523-4882
Jamie Maria Manders 13201 River Road 394-7702
Stephen C. Brisco Sr. LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave., Suite 127 619-8721 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu
F. G. “Frank” Martello 1502 Amelia St. 891-9119
Robert A. Camenzuli Camenzuli Dental Excellence 1319 Amelia St. 895-3400 CamenzuliDental.com James Anthony Campo Campo Dentistry 2215 Carrollton Ave. 866-0681 CampoDentistry.com Mark Stephen Chaney 1407 S. Carrollton Ave. 861-7133 Timothy Jude Delcambre 3426 Coliseum St. 895-6657 YourNewOrleansDentist.com *Cosmetic services offered Denice Lorraine Derbes 6251 General Diaz St.
John H. Moffatt Jr. Moffatt & Walsh 5809 Citrus Blvd., Suite 100 733-8551 Jonah R. Moore 1534 Aline St. 899-2333 Kendall P. Parker Parker Dental Center 5121 N. Claiborne Ave. 949-4547 PDCNola.com Paul C. Perez Audubon Dental Group 6120 Magazine St. 891-7471 AudubonDentalGroup.com Gizelle P. Richard 4460 General DeGaulle Drive 394-5330 DrGizelleRichard.com
Jeffrey K. Roby 2633 Napoleon Ave., Suite 700 899-3497 Wallace George Serpas III CBD Dental Care 316 Baronne St. 525-9990 CBDDentalCare.com Kim M. Tolar Tolar Family Dentistry 2502 Napoleon Ave. 891-1880 TolarFamilyDentistry.com *Cosmetic services offered
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Covington Ben A. Almerico Almerico Oral & Maxillofacial 195 Greenbriar Blvd., Suite 100 (985) 892-9993
Kenner Jeffrey W. Dongieux 1900 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite 101 468-8300 DrJeffDongieux.com Metairie Michael S. Block The Center for Dental Reconstruction 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 112 833-3368 CenterForDentalReconstruction.com
Sammy Tom Audubon Dental Group 6120 Magazine St. 891-7471 AudubonDentalGroup.com
Edward Joseph Boos Oral & Maxillofacial Surgical Associates 4224 Houma Blvd., Suite 670 456-5033 NewOrleansOralSurgery.com
William R. Yeadon LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 619-8712 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu
Michael Gray Ferguson Oral Surgery Services 4420 Conlin St., Suite 203 455-9960 OralSurgeryServices.net
River Ridge William Keith DeJong De Jong-Plaisance Family Dentistry 10154 Jefferson Highway 738-5171 RiverRidgeSmiles.com
Walter Jackson Jackson Oral Surgery 4051 Veterans Blvd., Suite 200 455-7161 JacksonOralSurgery.com
Warren J. Palmisano III 2020 Dickory Ave., Suite 104 733-0871 WJPalmisanoDDS.com
Robert E. Lane Southern Oral Surgery 4224 Houma Blvd., Suite 230 454-4515 SouthernOralSurgery.com
Kerry T. Plaisance Jr. De Jong-Plaisance Family Dentistry 10154 Jefferson Highway 738-5171 RiverRidgeSmiles.com
Demarcus D. Smith IV Oral Surgery Services 4420 Conlin St., Suite 203 455-9960 OralSurgeryServices.net
Slidell J. Kevin Curley 2800 Gause Blvd. E., Suite D (985) 649-7510 SmileNaturally.com
Paul Joseph Walters Oral Surgery Services 4420 Conlin St., Suite 203 455-9960 OralSurgeryServices.net
John J. Killeen Jr. Slidell Smiles 110 Village St. (985) 643-7516 SlidellSmiles.com *Cosmetic services offered
New Orleans Charles Patrick Silvia Jr. Southern Oral Surgery 3525 Prytania St., Suite 216 899-8173 SouthernOralSurgery.com
Michael T. Robichaux 1101 Robert Blvd., Suite A (985) 641-8058 MikeRobichauxDDS.com
Hugo St. Hilaire Audubon Dental Group 6120 Magazine St. 891-7471 AudubonDentalGroup.com
Stephen James Tomaszewski Camellia City Family Dentistry 1275 Seventh St. (985) 641-4444 CCFDentistry.com
Slidell Craig J. Brandner 2364 E. Gause Blvd., Suite 102 (985) 847-0104 SlidellOralSurgery.com
jeffery johnston photo
my toughest case Reb
uilding Retention
Dr. Duane Delaune
General Practitioner For Duane Delaune DDS, it’s all about making you look good. “I have a special interest in helping my patients achieve naturally beautiful smiles through restorative and cosmetic dentistry,” he says. “Throughout my career I have witnessed the cosmetic revolution in dentistry,” he says, noting that he finds the greatest fulfillment in changing someone’s life and self-image through whitening, veneers, implants or dentures.
He says, for him, his field offers the perfect mix of art and science. “I excelled in the three years of art I took in high school and always enjoyed doing things with my hands, whether it was painting or woodworking,” he says. “I wanted a professional career, so I looked at ones that involved the combination of art and science,” adding, “I also had a lot of respect for my childhood dentist, Dr. Charles Sicard. He always seemed to enjoy his work.” Delaune says his toughest cases are typically the ones where he’s helping someone whose dentition is completely worn out – someone in need of a full mouth reconstruction. “These cases require an accurate diagnosis and careful planning,” he says. They are tough because often times the bite has collapsed or has become misaligned. This requires a comprehensive understanding of the TMJ (jaw joint) and its associated muscles,” adding that complicated cases like these may also involve multiple procedures in all areas of dentistry over a period of time. “Although they may be considered tough cases, I always find them rewarding because I know I have made a positive difference in a life for years to come,” he says. Delaune says the most challenging part of his daily work is handling the business side of his practice. “Running a business requires a whole skill set that isn’t taught in dental school,” he says. “Without the support of a great team, none of what I do could be possible.” With a lot of success to look back on, Delaune thinks the view ahead is just as exciting. “US News and World Report has dentistry ranked No. 1 out of 100 for top jobs in 2015, partly based on its future outlook,” he says. “Personally, what excites me about the future is that I still love dentistry after 27 years of practice and know that I have the opportunity to continue making a positive difference in the lives of my patients.” – Kimberley Singletary
Delaune Dental, The Art of Smiles 3801 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. 305, Metairie, 885-8869, DelauneDental.com 27 years in practice as a dentist; B.A. from University of New Orleans; DDS from Louisiana State University School of Dentistry; Native of Camden, New Jersey, but has lived in New Orleans since 1-year-old
Nathan R. Brown Northlake Oral & Facial Surgery 1271 Seventh St. (985) 643-1010 NorthlakeOFS.com
Oral Pathology
New Orleans Kitrina G. Cordell LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 941-8257 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu
Orthodontics
Covington Laurie Lee Fricke 2301 N. Highway 190, Suite 7 (985) 892-2081 MakingSmilesNew.com Amy Smith Sawyer Sawyer Orthodontics 216 W. 21st Ave. (985) 327-7181 SawyerOrtho.com Gretna Philip J. Puneky 250 Meadowcrest St., Suite 202 392-8484 Harvey Jack Patrick Devereux Jr. Devereux & Nguyen Orthodontics 2800 Manhattan Blvd., Suite D 368-7513 Dn4Smiles.com Julia P. Trieu Trieu Smiles 3708 Fourth St., Suite 103 309-7830 Robert Michael Watzke 1929 Jutland Drive 341-0970 Kenner David Victor Scaffidi 527 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite 101 468-6200 ScaffidiOrtho.com Mandeville William R. Ledoux 260 Dalwill Drive (985) 674-1500 Ronald A. Madere Madere Orthodontics 4010 Lonesome Road (985) 626-0160 MadereOrthodontics.com Darren Miller Miller Orthodontics 1566 Highway 59 (985) 626-0991 DrMillerSmiles.com Metairie John O. Clotworthy Clotworthy Orthodontics 1014 Veterans Memorial Blvd. 833-4361 ClotworthyOrtho.com Hector R. Maldonado
4432 Conlin St., Suite 2B 455-5581 MaldonadoOrtho.com Brian J. Olivier Olivier Orthodontics 4408 Trenton St., Suite C 218-7300 OlivierOrthodontics.com Shannon K. Simons 3330 Kingman St., Suite Three 887-8480 Carol A. Stuckey Stuckey Orthodontics 701 Metairie Road, Suite 1A-204 835-1349 DrStuckey.com New Orleans Paul C. Armbruster LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave., Suite 230 941-8234 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu Leeann S. Evans Evans Orthodontics 5700 Citrus Blvd., Suite C 301-3413 EvansOrthoNola.com G. Bradley Gottsegen Gottsegen Orthodontics 3424 Coliseum St. 895-4841 GottsegenOrthodontics.com Sarita N. Hithe Hithe Orthodontics 3322 Canal St. 309-1401 Jamie Lydia Toso Toso Orthodontics 1502 Calhoun St. 899-8383 TosoOrtho.com River Ridge Daniel Paul Bordes 9537 Jefferson Highway 737-7324 Slidell Michael J. Guevara Guevara Orthodontics 1251 Seventh St. (985) 641-3587 SlidellOrtho.com
Pediatric Dentistry
Covington Todd S. Brasuell 189 Greenbriar Blvd., Suite A (985) 892-5942 ToddBrasuellDDS.com Houma Claudia Anne Cavallino New Orleans Childrens Dental Center 4752 Louisiana, Suite 311 (985) 868-8331 BayouChildrensDental.com Madisonville Katherine E. Vo
The Children’s Dental Cottage 704 Main St. (985) 845-3211 ChildrensDentalCottage.com Metairie Pamela R. Shaw Dentisitry for Children 701 Metairie Road 838-8200 PenguinDentist.com New Orleans Kellie S. Axelrad New Orleans Children’s Dental Center 6264 Canal Blvd., Suite 1 833-5528 NewOrleansChildrensDental.com Suzanne E. Fournier 3502 S. Carrollton Ave., Suite A 410-3051 JustKids-Dental.com Stephen C. Holmes Uptown Pediatric Dentistry 3715 Prytania St., Suite 380 896-7435 UptownPediatricDentistry.com Janice A. Townsend 200 Henry Clay Ave. 896-1338 Slidell Nicole R. Boxberger Kids Dental Zone 1128 Old Spanish Trail (985) 646-2146 TheKidsDentalZone.com Tessa M. Smith Bippo’s Place for Smiles 2960 E. Gause Blvd. (985) 641-3988 BipposPlace.com
Periodontics
Covington Caesar Sweidan St. Tammany Periodontics and Implants 7020 Highway 190 Service Road, Suite B (985) 778-0241 StTammanyPerio.com Gretna Charles T. McCabe 250 Meadowcrest St., Suite 204 392-4734 NewOrleansPeriodontist.com Metairie Aymee Costales-Spindler Periodontal Health Specialists 2540 Severn Ave., Suite 402 887-8205 SpindlerPerio.com Hisham F. Nasr The Perio Clinic 337 Metairie Road, Suite 301 831-0800 PerioClinic.net A. Margarita Saenz The Perio Clinic
337 Metairie Road, Suite 301 831-0800 PerioClinic.net Steven J. Spindler Periodontal Health Specialists 2540 Severn Ave., Suite 402 887-8205 SpindlerPerio.com New Orleans Gerald H. Evans LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave., No. 2108 941-8277 Kristi M. Soileau 3634 Coliseum St. 899-2255 NewOrleansPeriodontalSpecialist. com Slidell Thomas W. Mabry Slidell Periodontist 1241 Seventh St., Suite A (985) 646-1421 MabryPerioImplants.com
Prosthodontics
Gretna Michael B. Smith 250 Meadowcrest St., Suite 100 392-6057 Metairie Roger A. Vitter 4228 Houma Blvd., Suite 210 883-3737 DrVitter.com New Orleans Marco A. Brindis LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 941-8286 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu J. L. Hochstedler LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 214-6020 Luis E. Infante Gonzalez LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave., Room 2108 619-8721 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu/FDP Laurie F. Moeller LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave., Suite 2108 941-8289 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu Alika K. F. Yu LSU School of Dentistry 1100 Florida Ave. 619-8721 lsusd.lsuhsc.edu Slidell Robert J. Rooney II Slidell Dental Implants 100 Smart Place (985) 641-6607 SlidellImplantDentist.com n
jeffery johnston photo
my toughest case the
broken down teeth
Dr. TrÉ J. DeFelice
General Practitioner When TrÉ J. DeFelice DDS talks about how improving a person’s smile can change their life, he talks from personal experience. When he was only 12 years old, DeFelice broke both his front teeth at summer camp. “They were a little more than 50 percent gone,” he says. “It was pretty traumatic. Our family dentist told me I had to wait until I was 18 to get crowns, so I had to go through a good part of high school
with no front teeth.” Finally, the summer before his senior year, his parents took him to a different dentist. “A couple of hours later, they were fixed,” he says. “Needless to say, it was a big deal for me.” The experience made such a mark on DeFelice that he eventually decided he wanted to offer the same kind of life-changing experience for others. Over the past 10 years in private practice in Metairie and Belle Chasse, DeFelice has helped countless regain their smiles, but one particular case stands out as both one of the more challenging – and rewarding. “There was this gentleman that I began working with a few years ago,” DeFelice says, “his teeth were breaking down from excessive wear and he had a lot of cavities. He had been doing minimal treatment with another dentist, but not long after he came to me and we started talking, he confided that he was actually really conscious of his smile – especially his front six to eight teeth, which were really worn down.” After addressing the man’s cavities, DeFelice got him on a “good home care regiment,” for a while before moving on to a gum lift. “A while after he had recovered, he came to me and said that he had set aside the time and money to really finish things,” DeFelice says. “This was about a year to 18 months after meeting him.” DeFelice then went about installing a combination of eight crowns and veneers. “He wore his temporaries for almost two months and he was already so happy,” he says. “But when he finally got the permanents in, it was incredible. I was almost in tears and he was in tears, and I’m thinking, ‘This is what it’s all about.’” While it was a much lengthier road, DeFelice was able to give his patient the same gift another dentist had once given him. He gave him back his smile. “I got to make a dramatic difference in someone’s life,” he says. “And get to know a great guy along the way.” – Kimberley Singletary
DeFelice Dental 1900 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 833-4300, DeFeliceDental.com 10 years in practice; B.S. from Louisiana State University; DDS from Louisiana State University School of Dentistry; Native of New Orleans
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Dental Resources
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here is a reason everyone says, “Smile!” before snapping a photo – smiling subjects make for sweet and fond memories. Everyone should be able to smile without feeling self-conscious, and healthy, beautiful smiles are precisely what the following dentists and specialists have built careers on creating. A healthy smile and a proper bite rely on the health of your teeth, and whether it's time for a routine cleaning and exam or a comprehensive replacement, the area has a family dentist or specialist available to help. Prioritizing the health of your teeth now could make a big difference down the road, so ensure a lasting smile by checking out the following dental resources and scheduling your next appointment today.
General & Family Dentistry
Wyatt Family Dentistry, the practice of Dr. Lisa Wyatt, is proud to announce its expansion with a second location opening in Metairie Village Shopping Center on Metairie Road this summer. Well known among the community and dental professionals, Dr. Lisa Wyatt has been working with patients of all ages for more than thirty years, first as a dental hygienist and later as an associate dentist. She is able to treat the general public as well as those with special medical needs in hospitals or nursing homes. With a goal of treating patients like family, Dr. Wyatt’s highly trained team is dedicated to providing each patient with outstanding dental care with quality general,
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cosmetic, restorative, surgical and sedation dentistry. They strive to provide the best care and maintain the highest standard for safety and cleanliness. The practice incorporates the latest in cutting-edge technology, exemplified by their new in-house, one-day crown CAD/CAM 3D printer. Additionally, cosmetic dentistry offerings include Botox, Dermafil and Pellevé. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 504-613-5497 or visit LisaWyattDDS.com. Oak Family Dental, the private practice of Dr. Troy L. Patterson and associates, Dr. Jason Alvarez and Dr. Margaret “Garet” Patterson, is conveniently located on Causeway Boulevard in the heart of Metairie. Having proudly served the Greater New Orleans area for over 30 years, Dr. Patterson’s practice has evolved to offer the latest dental technologies and cutting edge procedures to create beautiful smiles for patients of all ages. Every patient is welcomed into a warm, friendly, family-based environment where they are given personal attention to restore existing concerns and to learn how to prevent oral health problems. Focusing on comprehensive care, a variety of treatments are offered including implant procedures, crown and bridge, veneers, same day crowns, dentures, root canals, extractions, Invisalign, tooth-colored fillings and cleanings, as well as numerous other procedures. The newly renovated state-ofthe-art office is fully equipped to solve all your dental needs.
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Convenient evening and Saturday appointments are available, and doctors can be reached 24 hours a day for dental emergencies. For more information, visit OakFamilyDental.com or call 504-834-6410. When debilitating headaches or jaw pain resist conventional forms of treatment, it may be time to consult a dentist – the right dentist. Dr. Jim Moreau, a general dentist with expertise in dental occlusion, uses unique neuromuscular technology to successfully treat chronic headaches and facial or neck pain. Patients who have “tried everything and nothing has helped” have found relief with Dr. Moreau when they had all but lost hope. Muscular strain around the jaw joints, temples, neck, and upper back often originates with poor occlusion of the teeth. Computer EMG scans combined with muscle stimulation help pinpoint the source of headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, noises in the jaws, and limited mobility. This technology helps Dr. Moreau find each patient’s ideal jaw position to effectively relieve the muscle strain. He then fits the patient with a natural looking orthotic that’s comfortable and virtually invisible on the lower teeth. While the initial goal is to establish three months symptomfree, long-term success is achieved through one of several different options based on the corrected occlusion and patient preferences for treatment. For more information, visit
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MoreSmiles.com or call 1-855-809-SMILE (7645). Dr. Joseph J. Collura has worked at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry for more than 30 years, providing high quality care and attractive, bright smiles to patients throughout the New Orleans region. He has extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry, advanced restorative dentistry, single-tooth as well as complete mouth implant reconstruction, root canal therapy, non-surgical gum care and the prevention and treatment of bite-related problems. Dr. Collura is passionate about advancing his skills and education and has been honored with a guest faculty position with the prestigious Scottsdale Center for Dentistry, which provides the latest in programs, seminars and hands-on training. Additionally, Dr. Collura is licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry for conscious sedation and nitrous oxide analgesia. When you visit Dr. Joseph Collura, you’ll realize you’re in a caring, calm environment designed for patient comfort with an open, relaxed atmosphere facing Lake Pontchartrain. During your one-on-one discussion following an exam by Dr. Collura, he’ll answer your questions and give you the information you need to make confident choices about your oral health care. For more information or to make an appointment, visit DrCollura.com or call 504-837-9800. Relaxed and comfortable are words not often associated
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with dental appointments, yet they are commonly used to describe appointments at the dental office of Dr. Deborah Lesem in Lakeview. Her friendly and experienced staff greet you and quickly put you at ease. The spotlessly clean office is bright and cheerful. For over 20 years, Dr. Lesem has seen patients of all ages, from children to elderly patients requiring special assistance. Treatments ranging from dental cleanings and screenings for gum disease and oral cancer to cosmetic procedures and makeovers, emergency care, fillings and root canals are just some of the many general dental services offered by Dr. Lesem. If personal and attentive care is what you are looking for, Dr. Lesem’s dental office is the place for you. Consultations are a good way to get to know Dr. Lesem and get a feel for her office and are recommended for patients who may be apprehensive about a new dentist or dental treatment in general. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 504-286-3880. Dr. Duane Delaune at Delaune Dental, The Art of Smiles, is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of those who place their trust in him. His state-of-the-art office, conveniently located near Lake Ponchartrain on Causeway Blvd., offers both general and cosmetic services from dental cleanings to full mouth reconstructions, including Smile Design, bonding, veneers, dentures, implants, lip and facial
ADVERTISING SECTION
augmentations with Juvederm and cosmetic Botox, cosmetic braces for adults, cosmetic gum lifts and grafts with Alloderm, and TMJ therapies. Dr. Delaune views cosmetic dentistry as an art form. He is passionate about every smile, ensuring patients love their new natural look whether it be through porcelain veneers, bonding, or even dentures. His dedication to continuing education and his artistic ability in creating natural smiles has earned him the unique distinction as the only “Master” of the Academy of General Dentistry in the metro area who is also an Accreditation Candidate in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. See Dr. Delaune’s work in his Smile Gallery at DelauneDental. com. To schedule a free consultation or for more information, contact Lisa at info@delaunedental.com or 504-885-8869. Second Line Family Dentistry, the practice of Drs. Ryan Thibodaux and Mayda Ferguson, offers three caring pledges to patients. First, they use a unique two-doctor approach when listening to patients’ chief concerns while incorporating the most modern techniques and technologies such as digital X-rays and intra-oral photography to pinpoint areas needing attention. Second, Drs. Thibodaux and Ferguson offer treatment options in a clear, concise way. They understand that there is always a better place to be than the dental chair, and
patients can expect scheduling that maximizes efficiency and minimizes the stress of each visit. Third, Second Line Family Dentistry works to offer payment options that fit your lifestyle. Regardless of how or when you choose to act in regards to your dental health, they are available to support you along the way. While providing comprehensive services from preventative exams to restorative and cosmetic procedures, Second Line Family Dentistry also offers special services such as CEREC restorations and Simply Straight Smiles for children and adolescents. For more info, visit SecondLineFamilyDentistry.com or call 504-833-2220. DeFelice Dental is committed to a conservative approach in patient care – focusing on preventative measures and maintenance as well as on patient education. They provide top quality care in a relaxed atmosphere. For patients who may require more complex treatment, the DeFelice Dental team provides comprehensive care with a gentle, caring touch. Services provided at the practice include gentle cleanings, tooth-colored fillings, nonsurgical gum care, teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, natural looking crowns, and implants. In addition to visual cancer screenings completed during appointments, Velscope oral cancer early detection technology is available for patients needing or requesting more advanced screening.
Dr. Delaune Delaune Dental Dr. Duane Delaune and his team at Delaune Dental, The Art of Smiles, are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of those who place their trust in them, whether it’s helping to maintain a healthy smile through regular dental cleanings or revitalizing a worn out smile through full mouth reconstruction.
His dedication to continuing education and his artistic ability in creating natural smiles has earned him the unique distinction as the only “Master” of the Academy of General Dentistry in the metro area who is also an Accreditation Candidate in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Visit his smile gallery at www.delaunedental.com to see examples of his beautiful work in a variety of cases and to learn more about what dentistry can do for you. For more information or to schedule a free consultation contact Lisa at info@delaunedental.com or 504-885-8869.
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Prior to leading his team at DeFelice Dental, Dr. Tré DeFelice worked as the Clinical Director of a unique specialty practice in New Orleans, where he planned, delivered, and coordinated patient treatment along with a team of dental specialists, gaining tremendous experience and knowledge along the way. Dr. DeFelice spends many hours in continuing education to advance in areas of comprehensive patient care, esthetics, and dental implants. DeFelice Dental is conveniently located on at 1900 N. Causeway Blvd. near I-10. For more information, visit DeFeliceDental.com or call 504-833-4300. Patients know from the moment they step into Dr. Jason Parker ’s office, with its whimsical murals of sea creatures greeting them from the walls, that this isn’t your average visit to the dentist. This isn’t your average dentist either. Winner of the 2008 Louisiana New Dentist Award, Dr. Parker not only provides top quality care to children ages one through teens, he also works tirelessly in the New Orleans community to advance children’s and healthcare issues. For nearly 10 years, Dr. Parker was chairman for National Children’s Dental Health Month for the New Orleans Dental Association (NODA) and is a past recipient of NODA’s Award of Excellence. He was selected for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Leadership Institute at the prestigious Kellogg School of Management. For more information, visit DocParker4Kids.com or call 504-831-2120. Dr. Mark Anderson and Dr. Jessica Tingstrom pride themselves in their top-quality, patient-first approach to family dentistry. Conveniently located on the Canal streetcar line in Mid-City, Mid-City Smiles Family Dentistry offers complete dental care for all ages, everything from routine cleanings and cosmetic procedures such as Lumineers and the new Snap-On Smile, to advanced implant dentistry. Orthodontic care includes braces and Invisalign, and Dr. Anderson is recognized as a
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leading area Invisalign provider. A new, state-of-the-art office allows them to offer the most advanced technology and techniques in creating and restoring beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Anderson is a New Orleans native and graduate of Benjamin Franklin High School and LSU. Dr. Tingstrom is also from New Orleans and a graduate of Mount Carmel Academy and UNO. Both are graduates of the LSU School of Dentistry. Along with their caring staff, they provide a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in a beautiful office space. Uniquely positioned to serve the entire New Orleans community, Dr. Anderson and his entire staff are multilingual and fluent in Spanish. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, visit MidCitySmiles.com or call 504-485-6575. Charvet Dental Center is a third generation dental practice that focuses on the overall oral health of each patient while helping them maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Hunter Charvet, Sr. and Dr. Hunter Charvet, Jr. offer the best options to help patients make informed decisions about their dental work. They welcome patients of all ages and offer comprehensive dental services such as preventive cleanings with digital X-rays, natural colored composite fillings, Invisalign teeth straightening, and complex restorative cosmetic cases that can include dental implants. The practice offers the most up-to-date digital equipment, including a Prexion CT machine and an iTero digital scanner for crowns, bridges, and implants. All implants are performed using MIS surgical guides to ensure proper placement. Dr. Charvet, Sr. earned his fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and is a graduate of the MISCH International Implant Institute. The practice is an in-network provider for several dental plans such as Aetna, Assurant, Cigna (Radius), Delta Dental (Premier), and United Concordia. Visit DrCharvet.com for a smile gallery and testimonials from patients. Call the office at 504-834-6504 to
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schedule an appointment or for more information. With over 10 years of combined dental experience, Dr. Claudia Cavallino and Dr. Kellie Axelrad work together as a team at New Orleans Children’s Dental Center, striving to provide their young patients with the highest standard of dental care available. Drs. Cavallino and Axelrad are board certified specialists in pediatric dentistry, having completed two additional years in residency training in the unique needs of children. They are the first and only pediatric dental specialists in Lakeview. Drs. Cavallino and Axelrad understand that some young patients may be a little apprehensive about their visit to the dentist, and the doctors take pride in having created a unique environment that will help patients feel as comfortable as possible. Their skilled and professional team is committed to providing compassionate and individualized care to each and every patient and looks forward to seeing every smile. New Orleans Children’s Dental Center is located on Canal Boulevard at Harrison Avenue and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Drs. Cavallino and Axelrad invite you to come and experience excellence in dentistry with a personalized touch. For more information, visit NewOrleansChildrensDental.com or call 504-833-5528.
Specialists
As one of New Orleans’ premier periodontists,
Dr. Kristi Soileau, DDS, MEd, has 30 years of local practice
experience in achieving dental function, esthetics, and health. Her goal is to maintain attractive, healthy gums and thus natural-looking teeth in her patients for a lifetime through treatment excellence. As a periodontist, Dr. Soileau specializes in the diagnosis and surgical and
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non-surgical treatment of diseases and conditions of the periodontium, including gingivitis, bone loss, gum recession, gummy smiles and dental implants. Her practice offers a friendly, professional, and comforting environment in which patients can feel relaxed and well cared for. Well regarded in the dental community, Dr. Soileau is an avid volunteer towards furthering dental education in the community. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 504-899-2255 or visit NewOrleansPeriodontalSpecialist. com. A top specialist in New Orleans, Dr. Michael Block is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon who utilizes state of the art technology to ensure the best care for patients. He practices the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, including orthognathic surgical correction of facial deformities, TMJ problems, removal of tumors with reconstruction, and removal of teeth with sedation. Dr. Block’s latest book on implant surgery is used by students, residents and professionals as a resource, and he teaches the procedure that replaces all of the patient’s teeth or one tooth within a few hours of removal, eliminating the need for dentures. Patients come in with teeth, or a tooth, in need of replacing and leave the office with a new set of teeth, or a single crown, all within a few hours. He is one of few surgeons in the United States using a Navigation method (X-Nav) to optimize implant placement, which results in ideal tooth replacement because of ideal implant positioning. Dr. Block’s efficient office and staff carefully organize schedules to avoid delays in seeing and treating patients at the clinic. For more information, visit CenterForDentalReconstruction.com or call 504-833-3368. •
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DINING LISTINGS
table talk pg. 82
Geoffrey Meeker’s French Truck Coffee’s “new roasting facility on the corner of Magazine and Erato streets came online in June 2014, with its retail component opening shortly thereafter. ... The compact space is carefully thought out, a reflection of the owner as much as the product, and dovetails nicely with the brand Meeker has built.”
jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH
THE MENU / TABLE TALK
French Truck Coffee
Bean Scene
Coffees with Imagination BY JAY FORMAN
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ew Orleans has always been a coffee town, but the awkward truth is that it has never really been a particularly high-quality coffee town. And while a lot of the nation’s beans pass through our port, the vast majority are bulk commodity, destined for Folgers or some other inglorious end. This is changing. Local roasters such as French Truck and specialty stores like Sucré, along with a groundswell of independent coffee shops, have helped this city turn the corner in appreciation of the bean. We will always love our cold drip iced coffee and chicory blends, but there are now single origin options for coffee nerds to obsess over. Just leave the pretense outside please – this isn’t Brooklyn. Yet. Geoffrey Meeker’s French Truck Coffee has come a long way since he started off roasting in the ground floor of his home in the Carrollton neighborhood. “In a busy week I used
to go through about 150 pounds of coffee,” Meeker recalls. “Now we go through, on average, 3,000 pounds.” His new roasting facility on the corner of Magazine and Erato streets came online in June 2014, with its retail component opening shortly thereafter. It features a coffee bar with a small number of counter seats augmented by a handful of tables on the sidewalk outside. A short, precise menu of coffee drinks has nary a thing to nosh save biscotti from a glass jar. And the rear wall is made of glass, offering a window into the roasting facilities that are the heart of this operation. The compact space is carefully thought out, a reflection of the owner as much as the product, and dovetails nicely with the brand that Meeker has built. Envisioned originally as an amenity to the company’s primary business, the retail shop has since exceeded expectations. “I knew there was demand in New Orleans for what we were doing when we started,” Meeker says. “But I had no idea of just how strong that demand was.” One perk is that French Truck’s retail outpost allows customers to taste coffees that arrive in such limited quantities that they’ll never make it out onto store shelves; for example, a recent Sulawesi bean that was part of his Grand Cru lineup. “Just 300 pounds came to the U.S. from this one farm and the stuff is just amazing,” Meeker says. “But it’s
Considering Coffee French Truck Coffee 1200 Magazine St. 298-1115 FrenchTruckCoffee.com Open daily
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Sucré French Quarter 622 Conti St. 267-7098 ShopSucre.com Open daily
Church Alley Coffee Bar 1618 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. ChurchAlleyCoffeeBar. Tumblr.com Open daily
HiVolt 1829 Sophie Wright Place 324-8818 HiVoltCoffee.com Open daily
Also inside P’s & Q’s 5720 Magazine St. 897-5131 PiesAndQuiches.com Open Tuesdays through Saturdays
jeffery johnston PHOTOGRAPH
Find Your New Fix Church Alley Coffee Bar reopened at 1618 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. inside the Zeitgeist following a location switcheroo and serves excellent pour-overs as well as a stripped-down lineup up espresso, latte and macchiato. It also steps into the community niche that’s a component that often feels absent from newer independent shops. HiVolt has two locations now as well, in the Lower Garden District near Coliseum Square as well as on Magazine Street by Whole Foods. so limited in supply we can only offer it in here.” Along with whole beans, Meeker has a booming business in cold-drip concentrate available on shelves at Langenstein’s and Whole Foods, among other outlets. One, a wonderfully infused dark roast with vanilla, includes a split Madagascan vanilla bean in the bottle. A new partnership with Mauthe’s Farm offers Meeker’s concentrate blended with its Progress Milk. Aficionados would likely most enjoy the straightforward espresso drinks. Locals would likely develop a fast and lasting sweet spot for the New Orleans Iced Coffee, which comes on tap and is pushed with nitrogen out over onto shaved ice. “It is almost like a snowball,” says Meeker. “If you drink it straight, you get a little effervescence just like with Guinness.” Perfect for summer, you’ll need to add the Kahlua yourself. A strong coffee program has always been a part of Sucré’s business model. Their second
store at Lakeside threw down the gauntlet with its Slayer – a famously high-end espresso machine out of Seattle. And with their new shop on Conti Street in French Quarter, they’ve upped the coffee bar with their Mod Bar brewing system. “It is one of the most amazing machines I’d ever seen in my life. You can set it up so that someone who doesn’t have a lot of ability as a barista can pull a beautiful shot. Or you can make it as manual as you want,” says Jesse Kurvnik, who oversees operations at Sucré’s three locations. “People who are coffee geeks can come in and create different settings and get the most out of the pull.” The system is fully integrated into the counter to create a seamless design, no doubt part of the appeal for fashion-forward Sucré. In addition to the pair of sleek espresso groupheads, two pour-over wands essentially create a mini-assembly line for quality coffee. Beans are sourced from Orleans Coffee Exchange, and featured roasts change often. To get the most out of the bean consider a pour-over. “You get a cup that takes in more of the flavor from the beans,” Kurvnik says. “You get a lot of individuality and it’s nice to see people explore that and decide which bean they like the most.” The restrained coffee menu intentionally avoids the morass of lattes and flavored beverages, though it does happily integrate somewhat at the dessert end of the spectrum with a beverage that’s a blend of gelato, ice and espresso with a bit of milk. Additionally, the Café au Lait Gelato (“That roast has a nice little undercurrent of chocolate, which complements the gelato very well,” Kurvnik says.) is made with their Tchoupitoulas house blend. n
Gulf Fish St.Peter
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News From the Kitchens
Angeline, The Big Cheezy and Salon by Sucré BY ROBERT PEYTON
Angeline
The Big Cheezy
Salon by Sucré
Chef Alex Harrell’s career in New Orleans follows some familiar patterns. He started at Bayona, moved to Gerard Maras’ downtown bistro and then worked for Ralph Brennan at Ralph’s on the Park and Table One. He was the chef when Sylvain opened in 2010, and stayed there until the opportunity to open his own place came up in ’14. That place, Angeline, opened earlier this year in the space formerly occupied by Stella!. The renovation of the space lightened it considerably. Gone are heavy drapes and upholstered chairs; it’s a more casual space now, though I wouldn’t call it casual, exactly. Harrell is originally from Alabama, and his cooking can best be described as refined Southern, though you’ll see Italian and French influences on the menu as well. Butterbean tortellini with red-eye gravy and Parmesan cheese is one example, as is the Rabbit Milanese, which comes with a smoked carrot purée, spoon bread, bacon, braised collards and a tomato “gravy.” There is house-made charcuterie, of course, and a custom cocktail menu, but each fits into the overall context of the restaurant, rather than feeling precious or rote. Angeline is located at 1032 Chartres St. and is open nightly for dinner from 5:30 to 10:30. Call 308-3106 or visit AngelineNola. com to learn more.
When I spoke to Adam York, who with Josh Fogarty owns The Big Cheezy, a restaurant specializing in grilled cheese sandwiches, he said the inspiration for the place came to Fogarty when he was an undergraduate at LSU. He had seen similar restaurants in other parts of the country, and thought it would be a good fit here, too. The restaurant is located in the first floor of an up/down double on Broad Street, between Tulane Avenue and Banks Street. It isn’t an obvious choice for a restaurant that would seem to appeal more to the college crowd than folks visiting the courthouse, but York told me they’ve been busy since they opened in March. The concept is simple – start by choosing bread (sourdough, wheat, white, challah or gluten-free) then pick two cheeses from the “classic” or “premium” lists, including cheddar, mozzarella and pepper-jack from the former, and gouda, brie or feta from the latter. It is $5 for a classic and $6 for premium. From there, you can add meats, vegetables, sauces or extras such as a fried egg, olive mix, caramelized onions or hot cherry peppers. Each adds between $.50 and $2 (veggies and meats, respectively) to your total. There are also a number of specialty sandwiches, as well as soups and salads, and for dessert there are beignets that are split and stuffed with various combinations of fruit and cheese before being grilled. The Big Cheezy is located at 422 S. Broad St., and their phone number is 302-2598; visit TheBigCheezy.com for the full menu.
Joel Dondis and Tariq Hanna keep expanding their sweet empire. The latest development is something of a departure, as the menu includes savory items. Salon by Sucré opened recently upstairs from another Sucré location, on Conti Street, near the Louisiana Supreme Court building. The space is a lot larger than you’d imagine from the narrow storefront and includes a balcony overlooking the street. There is a long bar and retail space in the back. The menu is focused on “high tea,” as are the cocktails, which were developed by Beth McCaskey, who along with Braithe Tidwell was hired from New York City’s Union Square Café. The food tends to be of the small plates variety; “sliderettes” take the concept to the extreme; these are tiny burgers (beef, lamb and tempura crawfish at dinner, just the beef for lunch or tea) the size of meatballs, served on small buns with caramelized onions that come three to an order. They come with excellent fries at lunch, which you can also order at dinner, with the option to add paddlefish caviar. The dinner menu is much larger, and offers the option of two sizes for each of the savory options. Scallops with olives, bacon and potato dumplings, for example, will set you back $12 for the small plate and $24 for the larger portion. Lobster fettuccine with saffron cream goes for $16 and $30, respectively. Emily Crotty is the chef de cuisine, and from what I’ve tasted, she’s definitely someone to watch. Salon by Sucré is located at 622 Conti St., and the phone number is 267-7098.
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SARA ESSEX BRADLEY PHOTOGRAPHs
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Summertime …
And the sorbet is flavorful by Dale Curry
EUGENIA UHL PHOTOGRAPH
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Strawberry Sorbet From Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Ice Cream & Dessert Book by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield (Workman Publishing) ½ pound fresh strawberries, stemmed and sliced ¾ cup sugar Juice of 1 large or 2 medium lemons ¼ cup corn syrup 2 cups cold water Combine the strawberries, sugar and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 1 hour. When ready to freeze the sorbet, mash the strawberries until puréed. Add the corn syrup and water, and stir until blended. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze following the manufacturer’s instructions. Makes 1 quart
S
ummer is the best time of year to eat well. That isn’t to say “diet” but simply turning to the land to enjoy fresh vegetables, herbs and fruit at its very best. It is the time of year that I come my closest to vegetarianism because although I love and enjoy meats year-round, I can consume wonderful salads and entrées without a bit of meat or fish in them. A strict vegetarian would not condone the chicken broth I sometimes use to spike a cold soup, but a vegetable broth, though not as pungent, can always be used as a substitute. Some of our herbs and tomatoes become casualties of the summer heat around this time,
but the influx of seasonal fruits and vegetables from cooler states and Mexico still fill the bins at the supermarkets. And local gardens maintain heartier herbs as well as squash, beans and corn. One of my favorite veggies is sugar snaps, which have taken a prominent place in most stores recently. They make wonderful dippers and stand alone as snacks that all ages seem to love. I was fascinated by an abundance of online recipes that use them in cold soups. I have borrowed from several of them to create the following recipe that will become a regular on my summer menus. It is cooling and soothing, and keeping cool is the name of the game in the New Orleans summer. I have outright snitched a Ben & Jerry’s recipe for a fantastic strawberry sorbet that my daughter stirred up in minutes at a recent dinner at my house. From rinsing the strawberries to serving up bowls of thick, succulent sorbet, she spent just a few minutes mixing and my small ice cream maker did the rest. This is going on my list with lemon ice as my favorite summer desserts. Two important tips for beginner cooks in dealing with summer vegetables are: To peel tomatoes, plunge them in boiling water for 30 seconds, one at a time, and cool for a couple of minutes. Use a sharp knife to remove the stem. Then the peeling will slide off without wasting any of the tomato. And: To roast bell peppers, place one at a time on top of a gas stove burner over a high flame. Let each side burn until blackened. Let the pepper set a few minutes off the stove, then scrape off all of the blackened skin with a knife. This gives the pepper added flavor. If your stove is electric, you can do the same
thing under the broiler. For the next three months if I’m not in air-conditioning or a pool I’ll be at my farmers’ markets or fresh vegetable trucks stocking up on the lay of the land. I hope some of them will leave their peas and beans in the shells because, strange as it may seem to some, I think shelling them is great therapy.
Summer Veggie Fettuccine 1 medium eggplant, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes 5 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided Kosher salt and freshly grated black pepper 1 medium onion, chopped 1 red bell pepper, roasted and chopped 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 5 cloves garlic, minced 3 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped ¼ cup capers ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Minty Sugar Snap Pea Soup 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 bunch green onions, chopped, white and green parts divided 4 cups chicken broth 1 pound sugar snap peas Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves plus several whole leaves for garnish 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest 1 cup plain yogurt, preferably from whole or 2 percent milk (not non-fat) Heat olive oil in a medium pot. Sauté white part of onions. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add snap peas and seasonings, and cook over medium heat for 4 minutes. Add mint, green onion tops and lemon zest and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from heat and cool enough to handle. Pour mixture into a blender or food processor and purée, or use a hand blender directly in the pot. Stir in yogurt. Taste and adjust seasonings. Chill before serving. Garnish individual bowls of soup with a dollop of yogurt and a mint leaf. Serves 4 to 6
1 12-ounce package fettuccine 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Heat oven to 500 degrees. Place eggplant in a bowl, add 2 Tablespoons of the oil with salt and pepper and toss until eggplant is coated. Spread on a baking sheet and bake, turning occasionally, until eggplant is roasted, about 15 to 20 minutes. Set aside. Heat remaining 3 Tablespoons of oil in a large pot and sauté onion until transparent. Add bell pepper, red pepper flakes and garlic and cook 1-2 minutes more. Add tomatoes, capers and eggplant and cook for about 4 minutes. Add basil and cook 1 minute more. Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and pasta. Cook until al dente. Using a slotted spoon, strain pasta over the pot and add directly to the pot with tomatoes and eggplant. Sprinkle with Parmesan and toss. Serves 4 to 6
Summer Vegetable Side 2 Tablespoons butter 1 large onion, sliced 3 yellow squash, sliced into ¼-inch rounds 2 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped 3 ears corn, cut from cob Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 teaspoon sugar 2 Tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped Melt butter in large, heavy skillet. Sauté onion for 2 minutes. Add squash and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, turning often. Add tomatoes and corn, salt, pepper and sugar and cook, covered, over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, for 5 more minutes. When squash is tender, add parsley and toss. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serves 4 myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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Midway Mule Drinking to victory BY tim mcnally
I
t appears that every decade or so this community creates a grand project, worthy of international notoriety, and establishes our “village” as a continuing great contributor to world civilization. In the modern era we committed to building the finest of domed stadiums, the most humanitarian of zoos, an aquarium worthy of our maritime location and a museum telling the dramatic story of the most significant military events of World War II. The National World War II Museum is now a key repository and an impressive compilation, preserving for all mankind every facet of the last global combat conflict. The fact that it’s here and is such a dynamic, ever-expanding facility, continues to astound. The Battle of Midway, June 1942, was a military victory in the Pacific Theatre desperately needed by the Americans. We were caught off guard in December ’41 at Pearl Harbor, and we needed to
show that we weren’t defeated and couldn’t be considered as shoved to the sidelines of the unfolding war. Midway, in fact, set the tone of victory that stayed with us throughout the campaigns in the Pacific. And so, the museum’s American Sector Restaurant + Bar, a food and beverage outlet, has created the Midway Mule cocktail. A bit of a play on the Moscow Mule, but served with respect, created in historic significance and intended as a catalyst for pride. The fact that it’s a refreshing and clean experience is lagniappe.n
Midway Mule 2 ounces Stoli vodka 1.25 ounces ginger simple syrup 1.25 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice 3 slices of lime (2 for muddling, 1 for garnish) Ginger ale to fill Build in a copper mule mug. Into the mug place 2 slices of lime and ginger simple syrup. Muddle. Add fresh squeezed lime juice and Stoli. Fill with ice. Stir thoroughly. Fill with ice again, if needed. Top with ginger ale and garnish with a slice of lime. As served at The American Sector Restaurant + Bar, National World War II Museum
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sara essex bradley PHOTOGRAPH
THE MENU / DINING GUIDE H= New Orleans Magazine award winner / $ = Average entrée price. $ = $5-10 / $$ = $11-15 / $$$ = $16-20 / $$$$ = $21-25 / $$$$$ = $25 and up.
American
Zea’s Rotisserie and Grill Multiple Locations, ZeaRestaurants.com. L, D daily. Drawing from a wide range of worldly influences, this popular restaurant serves a variety of grilled items as well as appetizers, salads, side dishes, seafood, pasta and other entrées. Also offers catering services. $$$
Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Elizabeth’s 601 Gallier St., 944-9272, ElizabethsRestaurantNola.com. B, L MonFri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sat-Sun. This eclectic local restaurant draws rave reviews for its praline bacon and distinctive Southern-inspired brunch specials. $$$
H Maurepas 3200 Burgundy St., 2670072, MaurepasFoods.com. D Thu-Tue, Br Sat-Sun. Pioneering farm-to-table restaurant with an ingredient-driven menu that changes daily. Clever cocktails a plus as well. $$ Satsuma Café 3218 Dauphine St., 3045962, SatsumaCafe.com. B, L daily (until 5 p.m.). Offers healthy, inspired breakfast and lunch fare, along with freshly squeezed juices. $
CITY PARK––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Café NOMA, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, NO Museum of Art, City Park, 482-1264, CafeNoma.com. L, (snacks) Tue-Sun. Sleek bar and café in the ground floor of museum offers a thoughtful array of snacks, sandwiches and small plates that are sure to enchant, with a kids’ menu to boot. $$
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– The Grill Room Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 522-1992, GrillRoomNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun. Featuring modern American cuisine with a distinctive New Orleans flair, the adjacent Polo Club Lounge offers live music nightly. Jazz Brunch on Sunday. $$$$$ Manning’s 519 Fulton St., 593-8118. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Born of a partnership between New Orleans’ First Family of Football and Harrah’s Casino, Manning’s offers sports bar fans a step up in terms of comfort and quality. With a menu that
draws on both New Orleans and the Deep South, traditional dishes get punched up with inspired but accessible twists in surroundings accented by both memorabilia and local art. $$$ Pete’s Pub Intercontinental Hotel, 444 St. Charles Ave., 585-5401, IcNewOrleans.com/dining/petes_pub. D Mon-Fri. Casual fare and adult beverages are served in this pub on the ground floor. $$ Q&C Hotel/Bar 344 Camp St., (866) 247-7936, QandC.com. B, D daily. Newly renovated boutique hotel offering a small plates menu with tempting choices such as a Short Rib Poor Boy and Lobster Mac and Cheese to complement their sophisticated craft cocktails. $$
H Root 200 Julia St., 252-9480, RootNola. com. L Mon-Fri, D daily. Chef Philip Lopez opened Root in November 2011 and has garnered a loyal following for his modernist, eclectic cuisine. Try the country fried chicken wings and the Cohiba-smoked scallops crusted with chorizo. $$$$ H Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas St., 299-9777, RestaurantAugust.com. L Fri, D daily. James Beard Award-winning chef John Besh’s menu is based on classical techniques of Louisiana cuisine and produce with a splash of European flavor set in an historic carriage warehouse. $$$$$ Tivoli & Lee 2 Lee Circle, 962-0909, TivoliAndLee.com. B, L, D daily, Br SatSun. Progressive Southern cuisine is the focus. Rabbit sliders, poke salad and pickled shrimp redefine locally sourced ingredients, and craft cocktail and bourbon menus round out the appeal. Craft cocktail bar Bellocq serves specialty and locally influenced libations. $$$ Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar 1009 Poydras St., 309-6530, Walk-Ons.com. L, D, daily. Burger, sandwiches, wraps and more made distinctive with a Louisiana twist are served at this sports bar near the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. $$ Warehouse Grille, 869 Magazine St., 322-2188, WarehouseGrille.com. L, D daily, Br Fri-Sun. Creative fare served in an art-filled environment. Try the duck
crêpes or the lamb spring rolls. $$ Wolfe’s in the Warehouse 859 Convention Center Blvd., 613-2882. 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. $$$
Downtown–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Camellia Grill 540 Chartres St., 5221800. B, L, D daily. A venerable diner whose essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned. This location has a liquor license and credit cards are now accepted. $
Faubourg Marigny–––––––––––––––––– The Marigny Brasserie 640 Frenchmen St., 945-4472, MarignyBrasserie.com. L, D daily. Chic neighborhood bistro with traditional dishes like the Wedge of Lettuce salad and innovative cocktails such as the cucumber Cosmo. $$$ Snug Harbor 626 Frenchman St., 949-0696, SnugJazz.com. D daily. This jazz club serves cocktails and a dining menu loaded with steaks, seafood and meaty burgers served with loaded baked potatoes. $$$$
French Quarter–––––––––––––––––––––– Hard Rock Café 125 Bourbon St., 5295617, HardRock.com. L, D daily. Local outpost of this global brand serves burgers, café fare and drinks in their rock memorabilia-themed environs. $$ The Pelican Club 312 Exchange Place, 523-1504, PelicanClub.com. D daily. 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. $$$$$ Rib Room Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, 621 St. Louis St., 529-7046, RibRoomNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Old World elegance and high ceilings, house classic cocktails and Anthony Spizale’s broad menu of prime rib, stunning seafood and on weekends a champagne brunch. $$$
GARDEN DISTRICT–––––––––––––––––––––––– Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland’s, 2001 St. Charles Ave., 593-9955, CopelandsCheesecakeBistro.com. L, D daily. Shiny,
contemporary bistro serves Cajun-fusion fare along with its signature decadent desserts. Good lunch value to boot. $$ District Donuts Sliders Brew, 2209 Magazine Street, 570-6945, DonutsAndSliders.com. B, L, D daily. Creative sliders (hello, pork belly) and super-creative donuts (think root beer float) are the hallmarks of this next-generation café. $
Metairie–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– café B 2700 Metairie Road, 934-4700, cafeB.com. D daily, L Mon-Sat. Br Sun. Ralph Brennan offers New American bistro fare with a Louisiana twist at this family-friendly neighborhood spot. $$$ Caffe! Caffe! 3547 N. Hullen St., 2679190. B, L Mon-Sat. & 4301 Clearview Parkway, 885-4845. B, L daily; D MonSat. CaffeCaffe.com Healthy, refreshing meal options combine with gourmet coffee and espresso drinks to create a tasteful retreat for Metairie diners at a reasonable price. Try the egg white spinach wrap. $ Heritage Grill 111 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 934-4900, HeritageGrillMetairie. com. L Mon-Fri. This lunch-only destination caters to the office crowd and offers a freshly squeezed juice menu to go along with its regular menu and express two-course lunch. $$ Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave., 896-7300, MartinWine.com. Wine by the glass or bottle to go with daily lunch specials, towering burgers, hearty soups and salads and giant, deli-style sandwiches. $ Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, VegaTapasCafe.com. D Mon-Sat. Innovative establishment offers fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetarian dishes in a chic environment. Daily chef specials showcase unique ingredients and make this place a popular destination for dates as well as groups of friends. $$
Mid-City–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Parkway Bakery and Tavern 538 Hagan Ave., 482-3047, ParkwayPoorBoys.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Featured on national TV and having served poor boys to presidents,
Tommy’s Cuisine Tommy’s Restaurant Group: 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 581-1103 Tommy’s Restaurant Group, in New Orleans’ Warehouse District, is now hosting private events including wedding receptions and corporate parties. Private dining rooms are available at Tommy’s Winebar, Tommy’s Cuisine and Tommy’s Private Loft. Parties small and large can be accommodated in the modern/vintage-style rooms and the Tommy’s team will work with guests to incorporate themed décors. Catering options range from sit-down dinners, to full banquets to passed hors d’oeuvres. Guests can opt for a full bar and select wines from owner Tommy Andrade’s over 200-bottle selection. – Mirella Cameran
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cheryl gerber photograph
it 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. $
NORTHSHORE–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dakota 629 N. Highway 190, (985) 892-3712, TheDakotaRestaurant.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. A sophisticated dining experience with generous portions. $$$$$
Riverbend–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Carrollton Market 8132 Hampson St., 252-9928, CarrolltonMarket.com. D TueSat. Modern Southern cuisine manages to be both fun and refined at this tasteful boîte. $$$
Uptown–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Audubon Clubhouse 6500 Magazine St., 212-5282, AudubonInstitute.org. B, L Tue-Sat, Br Sun. A kid-friendly menu with local tweaks and a casually upscale sandwich and salad menu. $$ Camellia Grill 626 S. Carrollton Ave., 3092679. B, L, D daily. A venerable diner whose essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned. Credit cards are now accepted. $ GG’s Dine-O-Rama 3100 Magazine St., 373-6579, GGsNewOrleans.com. B Sat, L, Tue-Sun, D Tue-Fri, Br Sun. Upscalecasual restaurant serves a variety of specialty sandwiches, salads and wraps, like the Chicago-style hot dog and the St. Paddy’s Day Massacre, chef Gotter’s take on the Rueben. $$ Martin Wine Cellar 3827 Baronne St., 8997411, MartinWine.com. Wine by the glass or
bottle with cheeses and snacks to-go. $ Slim Goodies 3322 Magazine St., 891 EGGS (3447), SlimGoodiesDiner.com. B, L daily. This diner offers an exhaustive menu heavily influenced by local cuisine. Try the Creole Slammer, a breakfast platter rounded out by crawfish étouffée. The laid-back vibe is best enjoyed on the patio out back. $ Stein’s Market and Deli 2207 Magazine St., 527-0771, SteinsDeli.net. B, L, D TueSun. New York City meets New Orleans. The Reuben and Rachel sandwiches are the real deal and the half-sours and pickled tomatoes complete the deli experience. $ Surrey’s Café and Juice Bar 1418 Magazine St., 524-3828; 4807 Magazine St., 895-5757, SurreysCafeAndJuiceBar. com. B, L daily. Laid-back café focuses on breakfast and brunch dishes to accompany freshly squeezed juice offerings. Health-food lovers will like it here, along with fans of favorites such as peanut butter and banana pancakes. Cash only. $$ Tracey’s Irish Restaurant & Bar 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, TraceysNola.com. L, D daily. A neighborhood bar with one of the best messy roast beef poor boys in town. The gumbo, cheeseburger poor boy and other sandwiches are also winners. Grab a local Abita beer to wash it all down. Also a great location to watch the game. $
H Upperline 1413 Upperline St., 891-9822, Upperline.com. D Wed-Sun. Consummate hostess JoAnn Clevenger
and talented chef Dave Bridges make for a winning combination at this nationally heralded favorite. The oft-copied fried green tomatoes with shrimp remoulade originated here. $$$$
H Wayfare 4510 Freret St., 309-0069, WayfareNola.com. L, D daily. Creative sandwiches and southern-inspired small plates. $$ Ye Olde College Inn 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-3683, CollegeInn1933.com. D Tue-Sat. Serves up classic fare, albeit with a few upscale dishes peppering the menu. $$$
Asian Fusion/ Pan Asian Little Tokyo Multiple locations, LittleTokyoNola.com. L, D daily. Multiple locations of this popular Japanese sushi and hibachi chain make sure that there’s always a specialty roll within easy reach. $$
Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Red’s Chinese 3048 St. Claude Ave., 304-6030, RedsChinese.com. D Wed-Mon. Assertive, in-your-face Chinese fare by chef Tobias Womack, an alum of Danny Bowien’s Mission Chinese. The Kung Pao Pastrami and Delta Broccoli are good options. $$
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– Horinoya 920 Poydras St., 561-8914. L, D daily. Excellent Japanese dining. The chutoro is delicious and the selection of authentic Japanese appetizers is the best. $$$ Rock-N-Sake 823 Fulton St., 581-7253, RockNSake.com. L Fri, D Tue-Sun, late night. Fresh sushi and contemporary
takes on Japanese favorites in an upbeat, casual setting. $$$
Faubourg Marigny–––––––––––––––––– Bao and Noodle 2700 Charters St., 272-0004, BaoAndNoodle.com. L, D daily. Housemade noodles and a more authentic take on Chinese fare sets this neighborhood startup apart. Try the soup dumplings if available $$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– V Sushi 821 Iberville St., 609-2291, VSushiMartini.com. D daily, late-night. Creative rolls and a huge list of fusion dishes keep party-lovers going late into the night at this combination sushi and martini bar. $$$
Garden District––––––––––––––––––––––– Hoshun Restaurant 1601 St. Charles Ave., 302-9716, HoshunRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Offers a wide variety of Asian cuisines, primarily dishes culled from China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia. Five-pepper calamari is a tasty way to begin the meal, and their creative sushi rolls are good. Private dining rooms available. $$
H Tan Dinh 1705 Lafayette St., 3618008. B, L, D daily. Roasted quail and the beef pho rule at this Vietnamese outpost. $$
Lakeview––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Lakeview Pearl 6300 Canal St., 3095711, LakeviewPearl.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A long list of specialty rolls rounds out the offerings of this Asian-Fusion restaurant. $$
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DINING GUIDE Metairie–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Aloha Sushi 619 Pink St., 837-0055, SunRayGrill.com. L Tue-Fri, D, Tue-Sun. Fresh fish and creative rolls, along with gluten-free options such as rolls in bowls, sushi burritos and other lunch friendly Japanese fare featured. $$
H Royal China 600 Veterans Blvd., 831-9633. L daily, D Tue-Sun. Popular and family-friendly Chinese restaurant is one of the few places around that serves dim sum. $$
MARRERO–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Daiwa, 5033 Lapalco Blvd., 875-4203, DaiwaSushi.com. L, D daily. Japanese destination on the Westbank serves an impressive and far-ranging array of creative fusion fare. $$$
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Café Minh 4139 Canal St., 482-6266, CafeMinh.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Chef Minh Bui and Cynthia Vutran bring a fusion touch to Vietnamese cuisine with French accents and a contemporary flair. $$
chef Michael Gulotta. Mix-and-match pho and an interesting poor boy menu rounds out the appeal. $$$
Riverbend–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Ba Chi Canteen 7900 Maple St., 3735628. L, D Mon-Sat. The kitchen plays fast and loose with Vietnamese fare at this eclectic outpost on Maple Street. Try the caramelized pork “Baco”. $
H Chill Out Café 729 Burdette St., 8729628. B, L daily, D Mon-Sat. Thai food and breakfast favorites like waffles and pancakes can both be had at this affordable college-friendly hangout. $
Uptown–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Chiba 8312 Oak St., 826-9119, Chiba-Nola.com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Contemporary restaurant features fresh, exotic fish from all over the world and fusion fare to go along with typical Japanese options. Extensive sake list and late night happy hours are a plus. $$$
H Jung’s Golden Dragon 3009 Magazine
Five Happiness 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935, FiveHappiness.com. L, D daily. This longtime Chinese favorite offers up an extensive menu including its beloved mu shu pork and house-baked duck. $$
St., 891-8280, JungsChinese.com. L, D daily. This Chinese destination is a real find. Along with the usual you’ll find spicy cold noodle dishes and dumplings. One of the few local Chinese places that breaks the Americanized mold. $
H MoPho 514 City Park Ave., 482-6845,
H Magasin 4201 Magazine St., 896-
MoPhoMidCity.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Vietnamese cuisine meets southern Louisiana in this upscale casual hybrid by
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7611, MagasinCafe.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Pho, banh mi and vegetarian options are offered at this attractive and budget-
friendly Vietnamese restaurant. Café sua da is available as well. $ Kyoto 4920 Prytania St., 891-3644, KyotoNola.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A neighborhood sushi restaurant where the regulars order off-the-menu rolls. $$
WEST BANK––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Nine Roses 1100 Stephen St., 366-7665, NineRosesResturant.com. L, D Sun-Tue, Thu-Sat. The extensive Vietnamese menu specializes in hot pots, noodles and dishes big enough for everyone to share. $$
Bakery/Breakfast
Café du Monde Multiple Locations, CafeDuMonde.com. This New Orleans institution has been serving fresh café au lait, rich hot chocolate and positively addictive beignets since 1862 in the French Market 24/7. $ CC’s Coffee House Multiple locations in New Orleans, Metairie and Northshore, CCsCoffee.com. Coffeehouse specializing in coffee, espresso drinks and pastries. $
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Merchant 800 Common St., 571-9580, MerchantNewOrleans.com. B, L daily. Illy coffee and creative crêpes, sandwiches and more are served at this sleek and contemporary café on the ground floor of the Merchant Building. $
H Ruby Slipper Café 200 Magazine St., 525-9355; 1005 Canal St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br
Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$
CARROLLTON––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Breads on Oak, 8640 Oak St., 324-8271, BreadsOnOak.com. B, L Wed-Sun. Artisan bakeshop tucked away near the levee on Oak Street serves breads, sandwiches, gluten-free and vegan-friendly options. $
City Park––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Morning Call 56 Dreyfous Drive, City Park, 885-4068, NewOrleansCityPark. com/in-the-park/morning-call. 24 hours a day; cash-only. Chicory coffee and beignets coated with powdered sugar make this the quintessential New Orleans coffee shop. $
Faubourg Marigny––––––––––––––––––– H Ruby Slipper Café 2001 Burgundy St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gracious Bakery + Café 1000 S. Jeff Davis Parkway, Suite 100, 301-3709, GraciousBakery.com. B, L daily. Boutique bakery on the ground floor of the Woodward Building offers small-batch coffee, baked goods, individual desserts and
sandwiches on breads made in-house. Catering options available. $
H Ruby Slipper Café 139 S. Cortez St., 525-9355, TheRubySlipperCafe.net. B, L daily, Br Sun. Homegrown chain specializes in breakfast, lunch and brunch dishes with unique local twists such as bananas Foster French toast and barbecue shrimp and grits. $$
Barbecue
Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Joint 701 Mazant St., 949-3232, AlwaysSmokin.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Some of the city’s best barbecue can be had at this locally owned and operated favorite. $
Lower Garden District––––––––––––– Voodoo BBQ 1501 St. Charles Ave., 5224647, VoodooBBQAndGrill.com. L, D daily. Diners are never too far from this homegrown barbecue chain that features an array of specialty sauces to accompany its smoked meats and seafood. $$
Metairie––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Voodoo BBQ 2740 Severn Ave., 353-4227, VoodooBBQAndGrill.com. L, D daily. Diners are never too far from this homegrown barbecue chain that features an array of specialty sauces to accompany its smoked meats and seafood. $$
Burgers
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Bayou Burger, 503 Bourbon St., 5294256, SportsBarNewOrleans.com. L, D daily. Sports bar in the thick of Bourbon Street scene distinguishes its fare with choices like Crawfish Beignets and
Zydeco Bites. $$ Port of Call 838 Esplanade Ave., 5230120, PortOfCallNola.com. L, D daily. It is all about the big, meaty burgers and giant baked potatoes in this popular bar/ restaurant – unless you’re cocktailing only, then it’s all about the Monsoons. $$
Lakeview––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Lakeview Harbor 911 Harrison Ave., 486-4887, NewOrleansBestBurger.com. L, D daily. Burgers are the name of the game at this restaurant. Daily specials, pizza and steaks are offered as well. $
METAIRIE–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Cheeseburger Eddie’s, 4517 W Esplanade Ave., 455-5511, AustinsNo.com/ Cheeseburger-Eddie-s.html. L, D Mon-Sat. Hickory-grilled burgers are the main draw at this casual spot but tacos, tamales, poor boys and more are also served. $
Riverbend–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Cowbell 8801 Oak St., 298-8689, Cowbell-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Burgers and homemade sauces on potato rolls are the specialty here, along with other favorites like skirt steak. $$
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H The Company Burger 4600 Freret St., 267-0320, TheCompanyBurger.com. L, D Wed-Mon. Custom-baked butter-brushed buns and fresh-ground beef patties make all the difference at this excellent burger hotspot. Draft beer and craft cocktails round out the appeal. $
French
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– Chateau du Lac 857 Fulton St., 301-0235, ChateauduLacWarehouse.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. This casual French bistro, run by chef-owner Jacques Saleun, offers up classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin and blanquette de veau. $$$$ Le Foret 129 Camp St., 553-6738, LeForetNewOrleans.com. D Mon-Sat. Sophisticated fine dining melds southern cuisine and classic French with modernist influences in an elegant setting. $$$$
Faubourg St. John–––––––––––––––––––– H Café Degas 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635, CafeDegas.com. L, D Wed-Sat, Br Sun. Salad Niçoise, Hanger steak and frites are served in a lovely enclosed courtyard at this jewel of a French bistro. $$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Broussard’s, 819 Conti St., 581-3866, Broussards.com. D daily, Br Sun. CreoleFrench institution also offers beautiful courtyard seating. $$$$
H Marti’s 1041 Dumaine St., 522-5478, MartisNola.com. D daily. Classic French cuisine, small plates and chilled seafood platters like Grand Plateau Fruits De Mer are the calling cards for this restaurant with an elegant “Old World” feel. $$$
Lacombe–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H La Provence 25020 Highway 190, (985) 626-7662, LaProvenceRestaurant. com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun. Chef John Besh 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. $$$$$
Metairie–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Chateau du Lac 2037 Metairie Road, 8313773, ChateauduLacBistro.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. This casual French bistro, run by chef-owner Jacques Saleun, offers up classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin and blanquette de veau. $$$$
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bistro Daisy 5831 Magazine St., 8996987, BistroDaisy.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Anton Schulte and his wife Diane’s bistro serves creative and contemporary bistro fare in a romantic setting. The signature Daisy Salad is a favorite. $$$$
H Coquette 2800 Magazine St., 2650421, CoquetteNola.com. L Wed-Sat, D Wed-Mon, Br Sun. The food is French in inspiration and technique, with added imagination from chef Michael and his partner Lillian Hubbard. $$$ Flaming Torch 737 Octavia St., 895-0900, FlamingTorchNola.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. French classics including a tasty onion soup and often a sought-after coq-au-vin. $$
H La Crêpe Nanou 1410 Robert St., 899-2670, LaCrepeNanou.com. D daily, Br Sun. Classic French bistro fare, including terrific moules and decadent dessert crêpes, are served nightly at this neighborhood institution. $$$ La Petite Grocery 4238 Magazine St.,
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DINING GUIDE 891-3377, LaPetiteGrocery.com. L TueSat, D daily, Br Sun. Elegant dining in a convivial atmosphere. The menu is heavily French-inspired with an emphasis on technique. $$$ Lilette 3637 Magazine St., 895-1636, LiletteRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D MonSat. Chef John Harris’ innovative menu draws discerning diners to this highly regarded bistro. Desserts are wonderful as well. $$$$$
Gastropub
Abita Springs–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Abita Brew Pub 72011 Holly St., (985) 892-5837, AbitaBrewPub.com. L, D TueSun. Better-than-expected pub food in its namesake eatery. “Tasteful” tours available for visitors. $$
CBD/Warehouse District–––––––––– Gordon Biersch 200 Poydras St., 5522739, GordonBiersch.com. L, D daily. Local outpost of this popular chain serves specialty brews made on-site and crowdpleasing lunch and dinner fare. $$ Victory 339 Baronne St., 522-8664, VictoryNola.com. D Tue-Sat. Craft cocktails served by owner and acclaimed bartender Daniel Victory, as well as refined small plates and gourmet pizza. $$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– H Cane & Table 1113 Decatur St., 5811112, CaneAndTableNola.com. L Sat-Sun, D daily. Open late, this chef-driven rustic colonial cuisine and rum and “proto-Tiki” cocktails make this a fun place to gather. $$ Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, OrleansGrapevine.com. D daily. Wine is the muse at this beautifully renovated bistro, which offers vino by the flight, glass and bottle. A classic menu with an emphasis on local cuisine. $$$
H Patrick’s Bar Vin 730 Bienville St., 200-3180, PatricksBarVin.com. D daily. This oasis of a wine bar offers terrific selections by the bottle and glass. Small plates are served as well. $$
Lower Garden District––––––––––––– The Tasting Room 1926 Magazine St., 581-3880, TTRNewOrleans.com. D WedSun. Flights of wine and sophisticated small plates are the calling cards for this wine bar near Coliseum Square. $$
Mid-City–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trèo 3835 Tulane Ave., 304-4878, Tre-
oNola.com. L Wed-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Craft cocktail bar also serves a short but excellent small plates menu to accompany its artfully composed libations. $$
and a confounding ordering system to enjoy iconic dishes such as the Ferdi poor boy and Jerry’s jambalaya. Come for a late lunch to avoid the rush. $$
other local classics while dining in the courtyard bar or any other room in this labyrinthine, rumored-to-be-haunted establishment. $$$$
Uptown–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Red Gravy 4125 Camp St., 561-8844, RedGravy.com. B, Br, L, D, Wed-Mon. Farm-to-table Italian restaurant offers a creative array of breakfast items such as Cannoli Pancakes as well as delectable sandwiches and more for lunch. Homemade pastas and authentic Tuscan specialties like Cacciucco round out the dinner menu. $$
Napoleon House 500 Chartres St., 524522-4152, NapoleonHouse.com. L Mon-Sat, D Tue-Sat. Originally built in 1797 as a respite for Napoleon, this family-owned European-style café serves local favorites gumbo, jambalaya and muffulettas, and for sipping, a Sazerac or lemony Pimm’s Cup are perfect accompaniments. $$
Tommy’s Cuisine 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 581-1103, TommysNewOrleans.com. D daily. Classic Creole-Italian cuisine is the name of the game at this upscale eatery. Appetizers include the namesake oysters Tommy, baked in the shell with Romano cheese, pancetta and roasted red pepper. $$$$$
NOLA 534 St. Louis St., 522-6652, Emerils.com. L Thu-Mon, D daily. Emeril’s more affordable eatery, featuring cedar-plankroasted redfish; private dining. $$$$$
The Avenue Pub 1732 St. Charles Ave., 586-9243, TheAvenuePub.com. Kitchen open 24/7. With more than 43 rotating draft beers, this pub also offers food, including a cheese plate from St. James Cheese Co. and the “Pub Burger.” Counter service only. $ Bouligny Tavern 3641 Magazine St., 8911810, BoulignyTavern.com. D Mon-Sat. Carefully curated small plates, inventive cocktails and select wines are the focus of this stylish offshoot of John Harris’s nationally acclaimed Lilette. $$ The Delachaise 3442 St. Charles Ave., 895-0858, TheDelaichaise.com. L SatSun, D daily. Cuisine elevated to the standards of the libations is the draw at this lively wine bar and gastropub. Food is grounded in French bistro fare with eclectic twists. $$
Faubourg Marigny–––––––––––––––––––
Italian
Avondale–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mosca’s 4137 Highway 90 West, 4638950, MoscasRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sat. Italian institution dishes out massive portions of great food, family-style. Good bets are the shrimp Mosca and chicken à la grande. Cash only. $$$
Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mariza 2900 Charters St., 598-5700, MarizaNewOrleans.com. D Tue-Sat. An Italian-inspired restaurant by chef Ian Schnoebelen features a terrific raw bar, house-cured charcuterie and an array of refined adult beverages served in the industrial/contemporary setting on the ground floor of the Rice Mills lofts. $$$
CBD/Warehouse District–––––––––– H Domenica The Roosevelt Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 648-6020, DomenicaRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Chef Alon Shaya serves authentic, regional Italian cuisine. The menu of thin, lightly topped pizzas, artisanal salumi and cheese, and a carefully chosen selection of antipasti, pasta and entrées, feature locally raised products, some from chef John Besh’s Northshore farm. $$$$ Mother’s 401 Poydras St., 523-9656, MothersRestaurant.net. B, L, D daily. Locals and tourists alike endure long queues
Praline Connection 542 Frenchmen St., 943-3934, PralineConnection.com. L, D daily. Down-home dishes of smothered pork chops, greens, beans and cornbread are on the menu at this Creole soul restaurant. $$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Café Giovanni 117 Decatur St., 529-2154, CafeGiovanni.com. D daily. Live opera singers three nights a week. A selection of Italian specialties tweaked with a Creole influence and their Belli Baci happy hour adds to the atmosphere. $$$$ Chartres House, 601 Chartres St., 5868383, ChartresHouse.com. L, D daily. This iconic French Quarter bar serves terrific Mint Juleps and Gin Fizzes in its picturesque courtyard and balcony settings. Also famous for its fried green tomatoes and other local favorite dishes. $$$ Irene’s Cuisine 539 St. Philip St., 529881. 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. $$$$
H Italian Barrel 430 Barracks St., 569-0198, ItalianBarrel.com. L, D daily. Northern Italian dishes like Braciola di Maiale as well as an exhaustive pasta menu tempt here at this local favorite that also offers al fresco seating. $$$ Muriel’s Jackson Square 801 Chartres St., 568-1885, Muriels.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Enjoy pecan-crusted drum and
Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill 115 Bourbon St., 598-1200, RedFishGrill.com. L, D daily. Chef Austin Kirzner cooks up a broad menu peppered with local favorites such as barbecue oysters, blackened redfish and double-chocolate bread pudding. $$$$$ Arnaud’s Remoulade 309 Bourbon St., 523-0377, Remoulade.com. L, D daily. Granite-topped tables and an antique mahogany bar are home to the eclectic menu of famous shrimp Arnaud, red beans and rice and poor boys as well as specialty burgers, grilled all-beef hot dogs and thin-crust pizza. $$
H R’evolution 777 Bienville St., 5532277, RevolutionNola.com. L Wed-Fri, D daily, Br Sun. An opulent place that combines the local flavors of chef John Folse with the more cosmopolitan influence of chef Rick 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. $$$$$
H Tujague’s 823 Decatur St., 525-8676, TujaguesRestaurant.com. L Sat-Sun, D daily. For more than 150 years this landmark restaurant has been offering Creole cuisine. Favorites include a nightly six-course table d’hôté menu featuring a unique beef brisket with Creole sauce. $$$$$
Lakeview––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Tony Angello’s 6262 Fleur de Lis Drive, 488-0888, TonyAngellos.com. D TueSat. Creole-Italian favorite serves up fare. Ask Tony to “Feed Me” if you want a real multi-course dining experience. $$$$
Metairie––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
John Folse Caters for Victory Chef John Folse & Company: (225) 664-6000, JFolse.com R’evolutionary Catering, owned by Chef John Folse & Company, is providing the culinary inspiration for the National World War II Museum’s 2015 Whitney Victory Ball on June 12. Restaurant R’evolution’s event arm, R’evolutionary Catering develops menus around concepts. The dishes for the Victory Gala will reflect the cuisine from parts of Europe that saw battle during WWII, including the Moselle River and the Ardennes. The menu for the Victory Ball is a collaboration between R’evolutionary Catering and Centerplate/American Sector. – M.C.
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Ron Manville photo
H Andrea’s Restaurant 3100 19th St., 834-8583, AndreasRestaurant.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily, Br Sun. Osso buco and homemade pastas in a setting that’s both elegant and intimate; off-premise catering. $$$ Semolina 4436 Veterans Blvd., Suite 37, 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. $$ Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 4411 Chastant St., 885-2984, Metairie, VicentsItalianCuisine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Snug Italian boîte packs them in, yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Liuzza’s 3636 Bienville St., 482-9120, Liuzzas.com. L, D daily. Classic neighborhood joint serves favorites like the “Frenchuletta,” stuffed artichokes and andouille gumbo. Kid’s menu offered. Cash only. $$ Ralph’s On The Park 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000, RalphsOnThePark.com. Br Sun, L Tue-Fri, D daily. A modern interior and contemporary Creole dishes such as City Park salad, turtle soup, barbecue Gulf shrimp and good cocktails. $$$$
NORTHSHORE–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Del Porto Ristorante 501 E. Boston
St., (985) 875-1006, DelPortoRistorante. com. L, D Tue-Sat. One of the Northshore’s premier fine dining destinations serving Italian food that makes use of locally sourced meats and produce. $$$
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Amici 3218 Magazine St., 300-1250, AmiciNola.com. L, D daily. Coal-fired pizza is the calling card for this destination, but the menu offers an impressive list of authentic and Creole Italian specialties as well. $$
3386, TheBonTonCafe.com. L, D Mon-Fri. A local favorite for the old-school business lunch crowd specializing in local seafood and Cajun dishes. $$$$
sampling chef Donald Link’s menu that melds contemporary bistro fare with classic Louisiana cuisine. The banana brown butter tart is a favorite dessert. $$$$$
Café Adelaide Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras St., 595-3305, CafeAdelaide. com. B, D daily, L Mon-Fri. This offering from the Commander’s Palace family of restaurants has become a power-lunch favorite for business-people and politicos. Also features the Swizzle Stick Bar. $$$$
Mulate’s 201 Julia St., 522-1492, Mulates.com. L, D daily. Live music and dancing add to the fun at this worldfamous Cajun destination. $$
H Cochon 930 Tchoupitoulas St.,
Pascal’s Manale 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, PascalsManale.com. L MonFri, D Mon-Sat. Vintage neighborhood restaurant since 1913 and the place to go for the creation of barbecued shrimp. Its oyster bar serves icy cold, freshly shucked Louisiana oysters and the Italian specialties and steaks are also solid. $$$$
588-2123, CochonRestaurant.com. L, D, Mon-Sat. Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski showcase Cajun and Southern cuisine at this hot spot. Boudin and other pork dishes reign supreme here, along with Louisiana seafood and real moonshine from the bar. Reservations strongly recommended. $$
Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, VicentsItalianCuisine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sun. Snug Italian boîte packs them in yet manages to remain intimate at the same time. The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$
Drago’s Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 584-3911, DragosRestaurant. com. L, D daily. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$
Louisianian Fare
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Annunciation 1016 Annunciation St., 568-0245, AnnunciationRestaurant.com. D Mon-Sat. Chef Steven Manning brings a refined sensibility to this refined Warehouse District oasis along with his famous fried oysters with melted brie. $$$ Bon Ton Cafe 401 Magazine St., 524-
Emeril’s 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 5289393, EmerilsRestaurants.com. L MonFri, D daily. The flagship of superstar chef Emeril Lagasse’s culinary empire, this landmark attracts pilgrims from all over the world. $$$$$
H Herbsaint 701 St. Charles Ave., 5244114, Herbsaint.com. L Mon-Fri, D MonSat. Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail before
Palette 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 613-2350, B, L, D daily. Creole, Cajun and French flavors all come together at this restaurant in the Renaissance Hotel near the Convention Center. $$
Darrow–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Café Burnside Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, 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. $$ Latil’s Landing Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, HoumasHouse.com. D Wed-Sun. Nouvelle Louisiane, plantation-style cooking served in an opulent setting features dishes like rack of lamb and plume de veau. $$$$$
Faubourg Marigny–––––––––––––––––––– Feelings Cafe 2600 Chartres St., 9452222, FeelingsCafe.com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun. Romantic ambiance and skillfully created dishes, such as veal d’aunoy, make dining here on the patio a memorable experience. A piano bar on Fridays
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DINING GUIDE adds to the atmosphere. Vegan menu offered. $$$$ Horn’s 1940 Dauphine St., Marigny, 459-4676, HornsNola.com. B, L daily, D Thu-Mon. This casual, eclectic watering hole offers offbeat twists on classics (the Jewish Coonass features latkes to go with the crawfish etouffée) as well as the usual breakfast and lunch diner fare. $
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville St., 5225973, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$
H Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., 523-5433, ArnaudsRestaurant.com. D daily, Br Sun. Waiters in tuxedos prepare Café Brûlot tableside at this storied Creole grande dame; live jazz during Sun. brunch. $$$$$ Antoine’s 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422, Antoines.com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. This pinnacle of haute cuisine and birthplace of oysters Rockefeller is New Orleans’ oldest restaurant. (Every item is á la carte, with an $11 minimum.) Private dining rooms available. $$$$$
H The Bistreaux New Orleans Maison Dupuy Hotel, 1001 Toulouse St., 5868000, MaisonDupuy.com/dining.html. L, D daily. Dishes ranging from the casual (truffle mac and cheese) to the upscale (tuna tasting trio) are served in an elegant courtyard. $$
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The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St., 586-0972, TheBombayClub. com. D daily. Popular martini bar 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. $$$$ Café Maspero 601 Decatur St., 523-6250, CafeMaspero.com. L, D daily. Tourists line up for their generous portions of seafood and large deli sandwiches. $ Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St., 522-7261, CourtOfTwoSisters.com. Br, D daily. The historic environs make for a memorable outdoor dining experience. The famous daily Jazz Brunch buffet and classic Creole dishes sweeten the deal. $$$$$
Galatoires.com. L, D Tue-Sun. Friday lunches are a New Orleans tradition at this world-famous French-Creole grand dame. Tradition counts for everything here, and the crabmeat Sardou is delicious. Note: Jackets required for dinner and all day Sun. $$$$$ House of Blues 225 Decatur St., 3104999, HouseOfBlues.com/NewOrleans. L, D daily. Surprisingly good menu complements music in the main room. Worldfamous Gospel Brunch every Sunday. Patio seating available. $$ Killer Poboys 811 Conti St., 252-6745, KillerPoboys.blogspot.com. L, D Wed-Mon. This quasi-popup operating out of the Erin Rose Bar serves some of the city’s best poor boys, including one featuring glazed pork belly. $
Criollo Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal St., 681-4444, CriolloNola.com. B, L, D daily. Next to the famous Carousel Bar in the historic Monteleone Hotel, Criollo represents an amalgam of the various cultures reflected in Louisiana cooking and cuisine, often with a slight contemporary twist. $$$
K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 416 Chartres St., 596-2530, ChefPaul.com/KPaul. L Thu-Sat, D Mon-Sat. Paul Prudhomme’s landmark restaurant helped introduce Cajun food to a grateful nation. Lots of seasoning and bountiful offerings, along with reserved seating, make this a destination for locals and tourists alike. $$$$
H Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House 144
H MiLa 817 Common St., 412-2580,
Bourbon St., 522-0111, BourbonHouse. com. B, L, D daily. Classic Creole dishes such as redfish on the halfshell and baked oysters served. Its extensive bourbon menu will please aficionados. $$$$
MiLaNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Latest offering from husbandand-wife chefs Slade Rushing and Allison Vines-Rushing focuses on the fusion of the cuisines of Miss. and La. $$$$
Galatoire’s 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021,
Royal House, 441 Royal St., 528-2601, Roy-
alHouseRestaurant.com. L, D daily. B Sat and Sun. Poor boys, jambalaya and shrimp Creole are some of the favorites served here. Weekend breakfast and an oyster bar add to the crowd-pleasing appeal. $$$ SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, SoBouNola.com. B, L, D daily. There is something for everyone at this “Modern Creole Saloon.” Decidedly unstuffy with an emphasis on craft cocktails and wines by the glass. Everything from $1 pork cracklins to an extravagant foie gras burger on accomplished yet eclectic menus. $$
H Tableau 616 S. Peter St., 934-3463, TableauFrenchQuarter.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Gulf seafood such as trout amandine and classic Creole brunch dishes like eggs Sardou are the highlights of this Dickie Brennan restaurant that shares space with Le Petite Théâtre on the corner of Jackson Square. $$$
Kenner–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Copeland’s 1319 W. Esplanade Ave., 6179146, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$
Lakeview–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Cava 789 Harrison Ave., 304-9034. D Mon-Sat. Fine dining (and excellent wine list) at this high-end Cajun and Creole restaurant that makes customer service a big part of the experience. $$$
Metairie/Jefferson––––––––––––––––––
cheryl gerber photograph
Acme Oyster House 3000 Veterans Blvd., 309-4056, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$
Br Sun. Spot local and national politicos dining at this favored Creole soul restaurant known for homey classics like fried chicken and trout Baquet. $
Austin’s 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 8885533, AustinsNo.com. D Mon-Sat. Mr. Ed’s upscale bistro serves contemporary Creole fare, including seafood and steaks. $$$
H Mandina’s 3800 Canal St., 482-9179,
Copeland’s 1001 S. Clearview Parkway, 620-7800; 701 Veterans Blvd., 831-3437, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$
H Redemption 3835 Iberville St., 309-
Crabby Jack’s 428 Jefferson Highway, 833-2722, CrabbyJacksNola.com. L MonSat. Lunch outpost of Jacques-Imo’s. Famous for its fried seafood and poor boys including fried green tomatoes and roasted duck. $
Ave., 252-4999, ToupsMeatery.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Charcuterie, specialty cocktails and an exhaustive list of excellent à la carte sides make this restaurant a carnivore’s delight. $$$
Drago’s 3232 N. Arnoult Road, 888-9254, DragosRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Katie’s Restaurant and Bar 3701 Iberville St., 488-6582, KatiesInMidCity. com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Creative poor boys, local dishes such as gumbo and Sunday brunch make this a neighborhood favorite. $$ Lil’ Dizzy’s Café 1500 Esplanade Ave., 569-8997, LilDizzysCafe.com. B, L daily,
MandinasRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Though the ambiance is more upscale, the food and seafood dishes make dining here a New Orleans experience. $$ 3570, Redemption-Nola.com. L Wed-Fri & Sun, D Wed-Sun. Chef-driven “Revival” Creole fare served in an inspiring former church. $$$
H Toups’ Meatery 845 N. Carrollton
NORTHSHORE––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Acme Oyster House 1202 N. Highway 190, Covington, (985) 246-6155, AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily. Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$ Gallagher’s Grill 509 S. Tyler St., (985) 892-9992, GallaghersGrill.com. L, D TueFri, D Sat. Chef Pat Gallagher’s destination restaurant offers al fresco seating to accompany classically inspired New Orleans fare. Event catering offered. $$$
Riverbend––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Boucherie 1506 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-5514, Boucherie-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Serving contemporary Southern
food with an international angle, chef Nathaniel Zimet offers excellent ingredients presented simply. $$
1111, ClancysNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat. Their Creole-inspired menu has been a favorite of locals for years. $$$
Brigtsen’s 723 Dante St., 861-7610, Brigtsens.com. D Tue-Sat. Chef Frank Brigtsen’s nationally famous Creole cuisine makes this cozy cottage a true foodie destination. $$$$$
Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221, CommandersPalace.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. The grande dame is going strong under the auspices of James Beard Award-winner chef Tory McPhail. Jazz Brunch is a great deal. $$$$
University Area––––––––––––––––––––––– H Dunbar’s 501 Pine St., 861-5451. Beloved budget-friendly Creole institution in an unlikely spot – Loyola University’s Broadway campus – but the excellent jambalaya, fried chicken and red beans and rice haven’t changed. $
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Apolline 4729 Magazine St., 894-8881, ApollineRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sun, Br Sat-Sun. Cozy gem serves a refined menu of French and Creole classics peppered with Southern influences such as buttermilk fried quail with corn waffle. $$$ Casamento’s 4330 Magazine St., 8959761, CasamentosRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D Thu-Sat. The family-owned restaurant has shucked oysters and fried seafood since 1919; closed during summer and for all major holidays. $$ Chappy’s 6106 Magazine St., 208-8772, Chappys.com. D nightly, Br Sun. Tradition reigns supreme at Chappy’s on a genteel stretch of Magazine Street near Audubon Park. Classics such as shrimp and eggplant casserole will be sure to please. $$$ Clancy’s 6100 Annunciation St., 895-
Dick and Jenny’s 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 894-9880, DickAndJennys.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. A funky cottage serving Louisiana comfort food with flashes of innovation. $$$$ Domilise’s 5240 Annunciation St., 899912. L, D Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat. Local institution and rite-of-passage for those wanting an initiation to the real New Orleans. Wonderful poor boys and a unique atmosphere make this a one-of-a-kind place. $
H Gautreau’s 1728 Soniat St., 899-7397, GautreausRestaurant.com. D Mon-Sat. Upscale destination serves refined interpretations of classics along with contemporary creations. $$$$$ Jacques-Imo’s Cafe 8324 Oak St., 8610886, Jacques-Imos.com. D Mon-Sat. Reinvented New Orleans cuisine served in a party atmosphere. The deep-fried roast beef poor boy is delicious. The lively bar scene offsets the long wait on weekends. $$$$ Joey K’s 3001 Magazine St., 891-0997, JoeyKsRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. A true neighborhood restaurant with daily lunch
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DINING GUIDE plates; red beans and rice are classic. $ Mahony’s 3454 Magazine St., 899-3374, MahonysPoBoys.com. L, D daily. Along with the usual poor boys, this sandwich shop serves up a grilled shrimp and fried green tomato version dressed with remoulade sauce. Sandwich offerings are augmented by a full bar. $ Mat & Naddie’s 937 Leonidas St., 8619600, MatAndNaddies.com. D Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat. Cozy converted house serves up creative and eclectic regionally inspired fare. Shrimp and crawfish croquettes make for a good appetizer and when the weather is right the romantic patio is the place to sit. $$$$
WEST BANK––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Copeland’s 2333 Manhattan Blvd., 3641575, CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun. Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$
Pizza
Reginelli’s Pizzeria Multiple Locations, Reginellis.com. L, D daily. Pizzas, pastas, salads, fat calzones and lofty focaccia sandwiches are at locations all over town. $$ Theo’s Pizza Multiple Locations, TheosPizza.com. L, D daily. The crackercrisp crust pizzas are complemented by a broad assortment of toppings with a lot of local ingredients at cheap prices. $$
Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Pizza Delicious 617 Piety St., 6768282, PizzaDelicious.com. Authentic New York-style thin crust pizza is the reason to come to this affordable restaurant that began as a pop-up, but they also offer excellent salads sourced from small farms and homemade pasta dishes as well. Outdoor seating a plus. $
Uptown–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Ancora 4508 Freret St., 324-1636, AncoraPizza.com. D Mon-Sat. Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza fired in an oven imported from Naples. The housemade charcuterie makes it a double-winner. $$ Slice 1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-PIES (7437); 5538 Magazine St., 897-4800; SlicePizzeria.com. L, D daily. Order up slices or whole pizza pies done in several styles (thin- and thick-crust) as well as pastas, seafood, panini and salads. $
Seafood
Akers–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Middendorf’s Interstate 55, Exit 15,
30160 Highway 51 South, (985) 3866666, MiddendorfsRestaurant.com. L, D Wed-Sun. Historic seafood destination along the shores of Lake Maurepas is world-famous for its thin-fried catfish fillets. Open since 1934, it’s more than a restaurant, it’s a Sun. drive tradition. $$
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Borgne 601 Loyola Ave., 613-3860, BorgneRestaurant.com. L, D daily. Coastal Louisiana seafood with an emphasis on Isleños cuisine (descendants of Canary Islanders who settled in St. Bernard Parish) is the focus of this high-volume destination adjacent to the Superdome. $$$
H Pêche 800 Magazine St., 522-1744, PecheRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Award-winning southern-inspired seafood destination by chef Donald Link serves whole roasted Gulf fish from its massive, wood-burning oven. An excellent raw bar is offered as well. $$$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Bourbon House 144 Bourbon St., 5220111, BourbonHouse.com. B, L, D daily. Local seafood, featured in both classic and contemporary dishes, is the focus of this New Orleans-centric destination. And yes, bourbon is offered as well. $$$ Deanie’s Seafood 841 Iberville St., 5811316, Deanies.com. L, D daily. Louisiana seafood, baked, broiled, boiled and fried is the name of the game. Try the barbecue shrimp or towering seafood platters. $$$
H GW Fins 808 Bienville St., 581-FINS (3467), GWFins.com. D daily. Owners Gary Wollerman and twice chef of the year Tenney Flynn provide dishes at their seasonal peak. On a quest for unique variety, menu is printed daily. $$$$$
H Kingfish 337 Charters St., 598-5005, CocktailBarNewOrleans.com. L, D daily. Gulf seafood and nouvelle Creole dishes such as smoked rabbit gumbo are the main draws at this establishment helmed by Greg Sonnier, as well as the excellent bar program by mixologist Chris McMillian. $$$ Landry’s Seafood 400 N. Peters St., 5580038, LandrysSeafood.com. Kid-friendly and popular seafood spot serves of heaping platters of fried shrimp, Gulf oysters, catfish and more. $$ Le Bayou, 208 Bourbon St., 525-4755, LeBayouRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat. Blackened redfish and Shrimp Ya-Ya are a just a few of the choices at this seafood-centric destination on Bourbon
Street. Fried alligator is available for the more daring diner. $$$
the classic steakhouse with his signature contemporary Louisiana flair. $$$$$
Oceana Grill 739 Conti St., 525-6002, OceanaGrill.com. B, L, D daily. Gumbo, poor boys and barbecue shrimp are served at this kid-friendly seafood destination. $$
Chophouse New Orleans 322 Magazine St., 522-7902, 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. $$$
Pier 424, 424 Bourbon St., 309-1574, Pier424SeafoodMarket.com. L, D daily. Seafood-centric restaurant offers long menu of traditional New Orleans fare augmented by unusual twists like “CajunBoiled” Lobster prepared crawfish-style in spicy crab boil. $$$
Kenner––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 910 W. Esplanade Ave., Ste. A, 463-3030, AustinsNo.com. 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. $$
Metairie–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Austin’s Restaurant, 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 888-5533, AustinsNo.com. D MonSat. Signature steak, seafood and Italian specialties reign at this dinner-only destination. Catering offered as well. $$$ Deanie’s Seafood 1713 Lake Ave., 8314141, Deanies.com. L, D daily. Louisiana seafood, baked, broiled, boiled and fried, is the name of the game. Try the barbecue shrimp or towering seafood platters. $$$ Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 1001 Live Oak St., 838-0022, AustinsNo. com. L, D Mon-Sat. Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper. Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Frankie & Johnny’s 321 Arabella St., 243-1234, FrankieAndJohnnys.net. L, D daily. Serves fried and boiled seafood along with poor boys and daily lunch specials. Kid-friendly with a game room to boot. $$
West End––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Landry’s Seafood 8000 Lakeshore Drive, West End, 283-1010, LandrysSeafood.com. Kid-friendly and popular seafood spot serves of heaping platters of fried shrimp, Gulf oysters, catfish and more. $$
Steakhouse
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Besh Steak Harrah’s Casino, 8 Canal St., 533-6111, HarrahsNewOrleans.com. D daily. Acclaimed chef John Besh reinterprets
H Desi Vega’s Steakhouse 628 St. Charles Ave., 523-7600, DesiVegaSteaks. com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. USDA Prime steaks form the base of this Mr. John’s offshoot overlooking Lafayette Square, but Italian specialties and a smattering of locally inspired seafood dishes round out the appeal. $$$
H La Boca 870 Tchoupitoulas St., 5258205, LaBocaSteaks.com. D Mon-Sat. This Argentine steakhouse specializes in cuts of meat along with pastas and wines. Specials include the provoleta appetizer and the Vacio flank steak. $$$ Morton’s The Steakhouse 365 Canal St., One Canal Place, 566-0221, Mortons. com/NewOrleans. D daily. Private elevator leads to the plush, wood-paneled environs of this local outpost of the famed Chicago steakhouse popular with politicians and celebrities. $$$$ Ruth’s Chris Steak House Harrah’s Hotel, 525 Fulton St., 587-7099, RuthsChris.com. D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Filet mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$
Garden District––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mr. John’s Steakhouse 2111 St. Charles Ave., 679-7697, MrJohnsSteakhouse.com. D Tue-Sat, L Friday. Wood paneling, white tile and USDA Prime Beef served sizzling in butter are the hallmarks of this classic New Orleans steakhouse. $$$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse 716 Iberville St., 522-2467, DickieBrennansSteakhouse.com. L Fri, D daily. Nationally recognized steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks and local seafood. $$$$$
H Doris Metropolitan 620 Charters St., 267-3500, DorisMetropolitan.com. L Sat-Sun, D daily. Innovative, genre-busting steakhouse plays with expectations and succeeds with modernist dishes like their Classified Cut and Beetroot Supreme. $$$$
Chef Devillier Opens Balise in CBD Balise: 640 Carondelet St., 459 4449, BaliseNola.com Growing up diving for lobsters scored a place in chef Justin Devillier’s heart for the sea, as evidenced in his new restaurant, Balise. Named after one of the first French settlements at the mouth of the Mississippi River and meaning ‘Seamark,’ the restaurant is located in the Central Business District. Balise serves up this James Beard Best Chef finalist’s culinary skill in both fish and fowl. Devillier’s renovation of the 1832 Creole townhouse presents a perfect setting for the robust food and the original cocktail list, which unearths many favorites from the past. – M.C.
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marianna massey photo
Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak 215 Bourbon St., 335-3932, Galatoires33BarAndSteak. com. L Fri, D Sun-Thu. Steakhouse offshoot of the venerable Creole grande dame offers hand-crafted cocktails to accompany classic steakhouse fare as well as inspired dishes like the Gouté 33: horseradish-crusted bone marrow and deviled eggs with crab ravigote and smoked trout. Reservations accepted. $$$
Metairie––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Ruth’s Chris Steak House 3633 Veterans Blvd., 888-3600, RuthsChris.com. L Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. 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. $$$$$
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Crescent City Steaks 1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271, CrescentCitySteaks.com. L Tue-Fri & Sun, D daily. One of the classic New Orleans steakhouses. Steaks, sides and drinks are what you get. $$$$
H Milkfish 125 N. Carrollton Ave., 2674199, MilkfishNola.com. L, D Thu-Tue. Filipino cuisine like adobo and lumpia is served, further expanding dining opportunities. $$
Vegan/Vegetarian Lower Garden District––––––––––––– H The Green Fork 1400 Prytania St., 267-7672, GreenForkNola.com. B, L Mon-Sat. Fresh juices, smoothies and
vegetarian-friendly fare make The Green Fork a favorite for lovers of healthy food. Catering is offered as well. $$
World
Byblos Multiple Locations, ByblosRestaurants.com. L, D daily. Upscale Middle Eastern cuisine featuring traditional seafood, lamb and vegetarian options. $$
Bywater–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Booty’s Street Food 800 Louisa St., 266-2887, BootysNola.com. B, L, D daily. Street food culled from countries around the globe is the muse of this creative establishment, where papadum from India resides confidently alongside Peruvian ceviche. $$ The Green Goddess 307 Exchange Place, 301-3347, GreenGoddessRestaurant.com. L, D Wed-Sun. One of the most imaginative local restaurants. The menu is constantly changing, and chef Paul Artigues always has ample vegetarian options. Combine all of that with a fantastic selection of drinks, wine and beer, and it’s the total (albeit small) package. $$
CBD/Warehouse District––––––––––– H Lüke 333 St. Charles Ave., 378-2840, LukeNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Chef John Besh and executive chef Matt Regan serve Germanic specialties and French bistro classics, housemade patés and abundant plateaux of cold, fresh seafood. $$$ Palace Café 605 Canal St., 523-1661, PalaceCafe.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily, Br
Sun. Dickie Brennan-owned brasserie with French-style sidewalk seating and house-created specialties of chef Darrin Nesbit. Favorites here include crabmeat cheesecake, turtle soup, the Werlein salad with fried Louisiana oysters and pork “debris” studded Palace potato pie. $$$$$
Kenner––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Fiesta Latina 1924 Airline Drive, 468-
Faubourg Marigny––––––––––––––––––– H Mona’s Café 504 Frenchmen St.,
Lakewood–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mizado 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd.,
949-4115. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $
Faubourg St. John–––––––––--–––––––––– H 1000 Figs 3141 Ponce De Leon St., 301-0848, 1000Figs.com. L, D Tue-Sat. Vegetarian-friendly offshoot of the Fat Falafel Food Truck offers a healthy farm-to-table alternative to cookie-cutter Middle Eastern places. $$
French Quarter––––––––––––––––––––––– Bayona 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455, 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, weather permitting. $$$$$ El Gato Negro 81 French Market Place, 525-9752, ElGatoNegroNola.com. Central Mexican cuisine along with handmuddled mojitos and margaritas made with freshly squeezed juice. A weekend breakfast menu is an additional plus. $$
2384, FiestaLatinaRestaurant.com. B, L, D daily. 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. $$
885-5555, MizadoCocina.com. L daily, D Mon-Sat. Sleek restaurant offers modern Mexican cuisine featuring pan-Latin flavors and influences. Small batch tequila and a ceviche bar make it a party. $$
Lakeview––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Mondo 900 Harrison Ave., 224-2633, MondoNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun. Chef Susan Spicer’s take on world cuisine. Make sure to call ahead because the place has a deserved reputation for good food and good times. $$$
METAIRIE––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, VegaTapasCafe.com. D MonSat. Fun, eclectic small plates destination offers creative fare keeps guests coming back with frequent regionally inspired specialty menus served with humor and whimsy. $$
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Juan’s Flying Burrito 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950, JuansFlyingBurrito. com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $
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DINING GUIDE Lola’s 3312 Esplanade Ave., 488-6946, LolasNewOrleans.com. D daily. Garlicky Spanish dishes and great paella make this artsy boîte a hipster destination. $$$
H Mona’s Café 3901 Banks St., 4827743. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters. The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu. $
H Taqueria Guerrero 208 N. Carrollton Ave., 484-6959. B, L, D, Tue-Sat. Friendly staff and authentic Mexican cuisine make this affordable neighborhood restaurant a neighborhood favorite. $
Upper 9th Ward–––––––––––––––––––––– Kebab , 2315 Saint Claude Ave., 3834328, KebabNola.com. L, D Fri-Mon. The menu is short and tasty at this kebab outpost along the revitalized St. Claude Avenue corridor. $
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Café Abyssinia 3511 Magazine St., 894-6238. L, D daily. One of a just few authentic Ethiopian restaurants in the city, excellent injera and spicy vegetarian fare make this a local favorite. $$
H Irish House 1432 St. Charles Ave., 595-6755, TheIrishHouseNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun. Irish pub dishes such as shepherd’s pie and fish and
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chips are featured here, as well as creative cocktails like Irish iced coffee. Check the schedule of events for live music. $$
Reservations recommended. $$$
Jamila’s Mediterranean Tunisian Cuisine 7808 Maple St., 866-4366. D TueSun. Intimate and exotic bistro serving Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine. The Grilled Merguez is a Jazz Fest favorite and vegetarian options are offered. $$
Calcasieu 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 5882188, CalcasieuRooms.com. For gatherings both large and small, the catering menus feature modern Louisiana cooking and the Cajun cuisine for which chef Donald Link is justifiably famous.
Juan’s Flying Burrito 2018 Magazine St., 569-0000, JuansFlyingBurrito.com. L, D daily. Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $
French Quarter–––––––––––––––––––––––
H Mona’s Café 4126 Magazine St., 8949800; 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 861-8174. L, D daily. Middle Eastern specialties such as 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. $
H Panchita’s 1434 S. Carrollton Ave., 281-4127. L, D daily. Authentic, budgetfriendly Mexican restaurant serves tamales, mole and offers free chips and salsa as well as sangria. $
H Patois 6078 Laurel St., 895-9441, PatoisNola.com. L Fri, D Wed-Sat, Br Sun. The food is French in technique, with influences from across the Mediterranean as well as the American South, all filtered through the talent of chef Aaron Burgau.
Specialty Foods
CBD/Warehouse District–––––––––––
St., 941-7675, BlueDotDonuts.com. B, L Tue-Sun. 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. Blue Frog Chocolates 5707 Magazine St., 269-5707, BlueFrogChocolates.com. Open daily, closed Sundays in summer. French and Belgian chocolate truffles and Italian candy flowers make this a great place for gifts.
Antoine’s Annex 513 Royal St., 525-8045, Antoines.com/Antoines-Annex. Open daily. Serves French pastries, including individual baked Alaskas, ice cream and gelato, as well as panini, salads and coffee. Delivery available.
St. James Cheese Company 5004 Prytania St., 899-4737, StJamesCheese. com. Open daily. Specialty shop offers a selection of fine cheeses, wines, beers and related accouterments. Look for wine and cheese specials every Friday.
Metairie––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Sucré 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311, ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily & nightly. Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts. Catering available. n
Sucré 3301 Veterans Blvd., 834-2277, ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily. Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts. Catering available.
Mid-City––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Blue Dot Donuts 4301 Canal St., 2184866, BlueDotDonuts.com. B, L Tue-Sun. 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.
Uptown––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H Blue Dot Donuts 5236 Tchoupitoulas
If you feel that a restaurant has been misplaced, please email Managing Editor Morgan Packard at Morgan@MyNewOrleans.com.
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Staying Active
Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
ealthy spines, joints and bones are essential to staying active, and whether you’re an athlete in fierce competition or an average person just maintaining your body’s natural ability, being able to painlessly walk, run, stretch and lift is important in navigating one’s life and work. If you’ve suffered an orthopedic injury, simple tasks can become painful and even impossible. Fortunately, orthopedic and sports medicine experts and surgeons are widely available across the region, many of which are pioneers in their field. From total joint replacements to minimally invasive procedures, a variety of treatments exist for improving your body’s natural function and movement. The following physicians – most of whom are included in Best Doctors' list of top practioniers – clinics and resources can help get you back on your feet and back on the field.
Orthopaedic Physicians & Clinics
Sometimes a kiss makes everything better, but sometimes it isn’t enough. When kids break a bone or have something more serious that requires an orthopedic specialist, they can get scared; in fact, so can parents. The Orthopedics Department at Children’s Hospital provides evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for the entire spectrum of orthopedic conditions and disorders in infants, children and adolescents. Children’s Hospital Orthopedics has the largest Pediatric Fellowship trained group in the state and treats conditions including fractures, spinal disorders, sports injuries, neuromuscular disorders, clubfoot and other foot disorders. As the only full-service hospital exclusively for children in the Gulf South, Children’s Hospital offers a multi-disciplinary approach to care. Orthopedic services are available at the Metairie Center, Children’s Hospital Outpatient Center of Baton Rouge and Children’s Hospital
Burdin-Riehl Clinic in Lafayette. Children’s Hospital runs clinics in Covington, Houma, Monroe, and Alexandria. For additional information, visit Children’s Hospital online at CHNola.org. One of the region’s top orthopaedic surgeons, Dr. Neil Maki practices in Thibodaux, Louisiana, in association with Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. Six staff members, including physician assistant Nicole Orgeron Bourgeois, PA-C, insure that patients’ individual needs are met by the most effective means possible. Advanced services include digital X-ray, ultrasound technology and DEXA scanning (bone density). Although Dr. Maki does most orthopaedic procedures, he specializes in shoulder and in sports medicine. Dr. Maki pioneered many of today’s shoulder arthroscopic procedures including obtaining patents on some arthroscopic instrumentation. He performs shoulder replacements, including reverse shoulder replacement and resurfacing arthroplasty. He is one of few specialists in the region who perform endoscopic carpal tunnel (wrist) and endoscopic cubital tunnel (elbow) surgery. Board certified in both orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, Dr. Maki is on the active staff at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center. He is also fellowship trained in Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery. He has served on the medical staff of the New Orleans Saints and the Nicholls State University athletic programs. He may be reached by calling 985446-6284 or 800-521-2647. Orthopaedics medicine at East Jefferson General Hospital has long set the standard for the entire region. Recognized as a Blue CrossBlue Shield Center for Excellence, an honor earned through their extraordinary patient outcomes, what makes this service line stand out is the continuum of care. Total joint replacement patients are urged to attend a pre-surgery class that explains every step of their surgical and recovery path before it ever takes place. The surgery and the post-surgical recovery are
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overseen by staff who specialize in orthopaedic recovery. Your rehab begins the very next day and is overseen by the most state-of-the-art rehabilitation unit in the area. Afterwards, to maximize your recovery, EJGH offers a unique short-term membership to their Wellness Center with special fitness regimens with your recovery and safety in mind. It is that continuum of excellence and care that have made the orthopaedics program at East Jefferson General Hospital second to none in this region. For more information on EJGH, its programs and physicians, visit EJGH.org. Serving the West Bank and Greater New Orleans region, Westside Orthopaedic Clinic provides superior general orthopaedic treatment with a specialty in spinal care. The clinic has been in operation since 1961, making it one of the longest standing orthopaedic clinics in the city. Dr. Ralph Katz is trained in all areas of modern orthopaedic surgery and is board-certified as well as fellowship-trained. Dr. Katz is a leader in his field with over 15 years performing advanced, minimally invasive procedures that restore strength and independence, allowing patients to successfully return to their regular activities quickly. Additionally, Trenise Martinez, PA-C, has joined the practice under the guidance of Dr. Katz and clinic staff. High-quality patient care is of the utmost importance at Westside Orthopaedic Clinic. Most major insurance plans are accepted, including worker’s compensation. Timely appointments are available – “Why suffer? Call today for an appointment.” Westside offers full-service, in-house X-rays, EMG/NCS, as well as physical therapy services with access to new rehabilitation equipment. For more information on Westside Orthopaedic Clinic, visit WestsideOrtho.com or call 504-3470243. Tulane Orthopaedics doctors are elite, fellowship-trained surgeons
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who combine their expertise and sub-specialty areas into a single comprehensive program. Patients have access to some of the most capable surgical care in the nation, as well as one of the finest rehabilitation programs. This ensures a faster and more effective recovery, regardless of whether you’re trying to get back on the sports field or back to daily life. Specialists offer care and prevention of sports medicine injuries, total joint replacements of hips, knees, shoulders, elbows and ankles, treatment of pelvic and other bone fractures and treatment of spinerelated conditions ranging from scoliosis in children to adults with disc herniations and spinal stenosis. Other conditions treated include painful foot ailments, such as bunions, along with hand and wrist injuries and painful nerve compressions. With multiple locations, including the Institute of Sports Medicine in Uptown, Tulane-Lakeside in Metairie, and at the Tulane Medical Center, their doctors and staff are able to serve the entire Greater New Orleans community. For more information, call 877-Tortho-1 (877-867-8461), or 504-988-6032, or visit OrthoTulane.com. At the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine, Charles Murphy, M.D., Thomas Lyons, M.D., Luis M. Espinoza, M.D., and William F. Sherman, M.D. are all fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopaedic surgeons who specialize in treatment of the shoulder and knee. “We are a general Orthopaedic practice with subspecialty expertise in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery,” says Dr. Lyons. The Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine maintains a special focus on delivering quality orthopaedic care to athletes. Two elements that set the practice apart are an in-office MRI scanner accredited by the ICAMRL and in-office physical therapists. “Every effort is made,” says Dr. Espinoza, “to accommodate our patients with timely appointments and a broad range of services all
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aimed at helping them heal and return to pre-injury form.” To that end, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries have made a great difference in patient outcomes, with patients experiencing less scar tissue and pain. To schedule an appointment, call the Metairie office (504-889-2663), Kenner office (504-467-5900) or New Orleans office (504-943-5777), or visit NolaSportsMedicine.com. Kevin Darr, MD of Covington Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who has earned a reputation for offering innovative surgical and non-surgical treatment options. “In addition to traditional orthopedic treatments and surgery, I offer minimally invasive alternatives utilizing state-of-the-art technology and integrative orthobiologic treatments to qualified patients,” says Dr. Darr. He is currently conducting IRB-approved research studies measuring the safety and effectiveness of autologous stem cell therapy to treat joint osteoarthritis, soft tissue injuries, and avascular necrosis of the bone. Dr. Darr presented preliminary results of this study at the Louisiana Orthopedic Association annual meeting in February. He is also enrolling patients in two FDA-approved clinical trials; one utilizing adipose derived regenerative cells and another using cryotherapy to treat knee osteoarthritis. For more information on these studies and on Dr. Darr’s qualifications and services, visit DrKevinDarr.com or call 985-273-5888. Dr. Alexis Waguespack is a fellowship-trained spine specialist and board-certified orthopedic surgeon providing treatment of cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral spine disorders, including scoliosis, spondylolisthesis and kyphosis (aka adult deformity). She also treats cancer and leukemias to the spine in addition to the common disorders
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such as pinched nerves (stenosis) and herniated disc of the spine. Dr. Waguespack is one of few specialists in the country experienced at treating adult deformity using the latest advancement in minimally invasive surgery for spinal deformity/scoliosis, offering superior results and quicker recoveries. She is one of few Louisiana physicians treating often-misdiagnosed SI joint pain (which accounts for some 25 percent of patients with long-standing lower back pain) with outstanding success rates using a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Dr. Waguespack is a member of the North American Spine Society, Society of Lateral Access Surgeon, SMISS and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, and she maintains Eastbank, Westbank and Uptown offices. For more information, call 504-392-7123. Located in Uptown New Orleans, Orthopaedic Associates of New Orleans (OANO) is the oldest continuously operated orthopaedic group in the metro New Orleans area. Founded in 1948 at Touro Infirmary, it has served the needs of New Orleans for more than 60 years. A group of multi-specialty surgeons, OANO is excited to welcome Dr. Felipe Ramirez to the practice. Dr. Ramirez is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery. Dr. Ramirez is fluent in both Spanish and English and has extensive coverage experience with numerous athletic programs, including that of Tulane University and the New Orleans Voodoo. He completed his fellowship in spine surgery at Brown University following his internship and residency at Tulane University Hospital before joining the OANO team of surgeons. In addition to spine surgeries, OANO offers arthroscopy, joint replacements, rotator cuff repair, diabetic foot care, as well as worker’s compensation injuries. OANO specialists utilize the latest advances in orthopaedic technology and surgery. Same-day appointments are available. For more information, visit OANO.com or call 504-899-6391. The Sports Medicine Center of Thibodaux Regional is committed to
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providing student athletes and coaches with the tools needed for a safe and successful season. One unique aspect of care offered through Thibodaux Regional’s Sports Medicine Center is use of its advanced concussion technology, which provides physicians with concrete data to help determine when an athlete is ready to return to sports following an injury. In addition to concussion management, comprehensive treatment and rehabilitative services are offered for all types of injuries, with an end goal of helping athletes return to the same level of competition performance. “Thibodaux Regional’s sports medicine program also offers educational seminars that focus on nutrition, conditioning, equipment fitting and reconditioning, and specific health topics such as concussion and athletic injury rehabilitation,” says Larry D’Antoni, ATC, LAT, Coordinator of the Sports Medicine Center of Thibodaux Regional. To learn more about the sports medicine program at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center, call 985-493-4502 or visit Thibodaux.com.
Pain Relief
New Orleans residents suffering from pain are invited to find their own “pathway to pain relief” at Integrated Pain and Neuroscience. Physicians and advanced practice clinicians led by Dr. Eric Royster offer a custom multi-specialty treatment experience for patients suffering from chronic pain. Common conditions such as headaches, spine, orthopedic, and neurologic pain are successfully treated. Pain is difficult; their team can help. The team consists of Dr. Eric Royster, board-certified in Pain Medicine, Dr. Domenick Grieshaber, fellowship-trained in Pain Medicine, Dr. Andrea O’Leary, specializing in adult and child psychiatry and Dr. Aaron Friedman, specializing in neurology and acupuncture. Their focus on coordination of care determines the most suitable
treatment options for each patient. IPN physicians offer a variety of interventional procedures including acupuncture, platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatments, psychiatric care and whole food plant-based nutrition counseling. For more information, visit PainIsAPuzzle.com or call 504-300-9020. IPN is located Uptown at 2801 Napoleon Ave. Saturday appointments are available.
Shopping Resources
Dale Gedert has focused on foot care for more than 40 years. He brings his expertise to Greater New Orleans with Therapeutic Shoes, a shopping resource for those suffering from a wide variety of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, flat feet, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, bunions, calluses, edema and leg length discrepancies, as well as knee, hip and back pain and more. “We specialize in custom accommodative foot orthotics, stylish extra depth shoes, diabetic shoes, custom shoes, shoe modifications, compression wear and diabetic socks,” says Gedert. ”We’ve got over 175 styles and color of men’s and women’s shoes.” Therapeutic Shoes features an in-house orthotic lab with certified personnel who handle all custom orthotics and shoe modifications. They offer a large selection of compression wear, as well as socks shaped to fit the foot for reducing fatigue and preventing circulation problems. They offer UV Total Recovery Shoe Sanitizer for those who’ve been treated for toenail fungus by a podiatrist or medical professional to prevent reinfection. Therapeutic Shoes is located at 408 Maine St. in Jefferson. For more information and hours, call 504-832-3933. •
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ADVERTISING SECTION The following physicians – most of whom are included in Best Doctors' list of top practioniers – can help get you back on your feet and back on the field. Orthopaedic Surgery James C. Butler
Southern Spine Care 1570 Lindburg Dr, Ste 4., Slidell 985-661-2170
Lucas Thomas Cashio
Jefferson Orthopaedic Clinic 920 Ave B., Marrero 504-349-6804
George Chimento
Ochsner Health System Ochsner Medical Center Department of Orthopaedics 1514 Jefferson Hwy, 5th Fl., New Orleans 504-842-3970
Kevin Darr
Covington Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic 19343 Sunshine Ave., Covington 985-892-5117
Vinod Dasa
LSU Healthcare Network Kenner Clinic Department of 200 W Esplanade Ave, Ste 500., Kenner 504-412-1700
Luis M. Espinoza
Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine 671 W Esplanade Ave, Ste 100 Kenner 504-467-5900
Donald C. Faust
2633 Napoleon Ave, Ste 600 New Orleans 504-899-1000
Mark J. Hontas
Tulane University Medical Group Covington Clinic
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Department of 71211 Hwy 21, Ste A Covington 985-893-9922
Deryk Jones
Ochsner Hospital - Elmwood Ochsner Sports Medicine Institute Cartilage Restoration Institute 1201 S Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson 504-736-4800
504-885-6464
Mark S. Meyer
Ochsner Health System Ochsner Medical Center Department of Orthopaedics 1514 Jefferson Hwy, 5th Fl., New Orleans 504-842-3970
Scott C. Montgomery
Jefferson Orthopaedic Clinic 920 Ave B., Marrero 504-349-6804
Ochsner Hospital - Elmwood Ochsner Sports Medicine Institute Bldg B, Ste 104 1201 S Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson 504-736-4800
Andrew G. King
J. Lockwood Ochsner, Jr.
Mark Juneau, Jr.
Misty Suri
Ochsner Hospital - Elmwood Ochsner Sports Medicine Institute Bldg B, Ste 104 1201 S Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson 504-736-4800
Robert Treuting
Ochsner Health System Ochsner Medical Center Department of Orthopaedics 1514 Jefferson Hwy, 5th Fl., New Orleans 504-842-3970
Pediatric Orthopaedic SURGERY
Ochsner Health System Ochsner Medical Center Department of Orthopaedics 1514 Jefferson Hwy, 5th Fl., New Orleans 504-842-3970
William K. Accousti
LSU Healthcare Network Department of Orthopaedics 200 W Esplanade Ave, Ste 500 Kenner 504-412-1700
H. Reiss Plauche
James Toliver Bennett
James Monroe Laborde
Jason L. Rolling
Joseph A. Gonzales, Jr.
Felix H. Savoie III
Stephen Douglas Heinrich
Children's Hospital of New Orleans Department of 200 Henry Clay Ave New Orleans 504-896-9569
Peter C. Krause
Orthopaedic Associates of New Orleans 3434 Prytania St, Ste 430., New Orleans 504-899-6391
Neil James Maki
Thibodaux Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic 525 Saint Marys St Thibodaux 985-446-6284
Keith Melancon
Pontchartrain Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine 3939 Houma Blvd, Ste 21 Metairie
Covington Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic 19343 Sunshine Ave., Covington 985-892-5117 Covington Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Clinic 19343 Sunshine Ave., Covington 985-892-5117 Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine 202 McAlister Ext., New Orleans 504-864-1476
Children's Hospital of New Orleans Department of 200 Henry Clay Ave New Orleans 504-896-9569 Tulane Medical Center Division of Pediatric 1415 Tulane Ave., New Orleans 504-988-2177 Children's Hospital of New Orleans Department of 200 Henry Clay Ave New Orleans 504-896-9569 Children's Hospital of New Orleans Department of 200 Henry Clay Ave New Orleans 504-896-9569
Andrew G. King
Children's Hospital of New Orleans Department of 200 Henry Clay Ave New Orleans 504-896-9569
ADVERTISING SECTION
Men's H e a l th
W
hile many will celebrate Father’s Day this month by indulging – dining out, having cocktails, and lounging around – don’t forget to engage in some healthy activities as well. As we celebrate the fathers in our lives, June is also a good time to focus on health and wellness as it relates to all men, including sons, husbands, brothers and friends. From prostate and cardiovascular health screenings to rehabilitation and home care, there are a variety of health care services available to help you remain strong and active both physically and mentally. The following health care providers are a few of the regional hospitals, clinics, and services providers available for you and your family. Whether you’re looking for a little information, a screening, treatment or care, these resources may be just what the doctor ordered.
Primary Care
Looking for opportunities and advice just for men? Touro provides easy daily steps to becoming healthier and stronger. June is National Mens’ Health Month and hosts Father’s Day, presenting the perfect time to help the men in your life make their health a priority. There are many easy things you can do every day to improve your health and stay healthy: get good sleep, toss the tobacco, move more, eat healthy, manage stress and see your doctor for regular checkups. Statistics show that men are less likely to visit their doctor frequently for annual check-ups and screenings. Having those important screenings, including a colonoscopy, PSA (prostate screening), and blood pressure, can make a difference in a man’s life and his overall health. Get started by making an appointment with one of Touro’s primary care physicians. Visit Touro.com/FindADoc or call 504-897-8500 for a complete listing of Touro departments and physicians.
Cardiovascular
Do you know your risk of cardiovascular disease? If you have family history, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, or if you smoke, are obese or live an inactive lifestyle, you could be at risk. Make sure to determine your risk factors and take preventative measures, no matter your age or gender. Do your legs cramp, itch or feel heavy? You may have venous disease, which is caused by diseased or abnormal veins. When vein vessels become damaged or weak, blood flows backward, causing the veins to stretch, swell and twist. The Vein Center at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) diagnoses and treats venous disease with minimally invasive procedures, resulting in less pain and quicker recoveries for patients. CIS cardiologists have received national recognition for the prevention, detection, and treatment of cardiovascular disease. To schedule an appointment, call 800-425-2565 or visit Cardio.com to learn more.
Home Care & Rehabilitation
The John J. Hainkel, Jr. Home & Rehabilitation Center, founded in 1891, is located at 612 Henry Clay Ave., nestled among beautiful oak trees and lush greenery outlined by porches and patios. The Center accepts both long-term residents and residents who have
recently undergone surgery or experienced a serious illness or accident and want to return home after rehab. The facility provides a wide range of health care services, including but not limited to Physical, Occupational, Speech and Recreational Therapies. The Hainkel Home works to maintain and enhance the quality of life of all of residents and clients whi le fostering the selfsufficiency of clients and families by providing restorative care and recreational activities. The enhanced art program encourages residents to improve their dexterity and fine motor skills, whether modeling with clay or painting. The music program brings weekly visiting musicians and frequent visits from students of the Loyola School of Music and a neighboring charter school. Additionally, the daily exercise program keeps everyone on their toes. For more information or to schedule a tour of the beautiful facility, contact Admissions Coordinators Cathryn Abbott Jones (504-756-2844) or Laura Glazer (504-919-4058). Peristyle Residences offers Residential Assisted Living and Memory Care in the comfort of luxurious and secure homes. Peristyle Residences’ alternative senior living model offers homes with private bedrooms and congregate dining and living areas for seniors who may no longer be able to safely live at home but who do not need or prefer more traditional settings such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities. There are five beautiful homes within great neighborhoods in New Orleans, Metairie and the West Bank. Peristyle Residences offers care, supervision and compassion to seniors and convenience and peace of mind for families and friends. These small communities foster the development of sincere relationships between caregivers and residents. Families are encouraged to decorate and furnish the homes with familiar items that are comforting and keep memories vivid. Healthy meals are prepared on-site and an array of stimulating activities keeps residents active at home. Peristyle Residences are licensed by the Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals, and all caregivers are trained in dementia care, received background checks and have several years of senior living experience. Schedule a tour at PeristyleResidences.com or by calling 504-259-0326.
Hospice
Anyone looking for compassionate and dignified care for their terminally ill loved ones should take a look at the services offered by Canon Hospice. The caring team at Canon is dedicated to a hospice ministry that helps patients and families accept terminal illness positively and resourcefully. Their stated goal is to “allow our patients to live each day to the fullest and enjoy their time with family and friends.” With special expertise in pain management and symptom control, Canon Hospice designs individualized plans of care for each patient based on their unique needs. Home Based Services provide doctors, nurses, social workers, pastoral care and volunteers. For patients with more intensive symptom management needs, Canon has an Inpatient Hospice Unit. This unit provides 24-hour care in a home-like environment where patients are permitted to receive visits at any hour. For more information, visit CanonHospice.com or call 504-818-2723. • myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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Go, See, Do N
Playing Tourist in Your Own Town
ew Orleans always seems to slow down in the summer, which means it’s a perfect time to experience the sights and sounds that draw tourists year-round to the culturally rich city. This month, make reservations at one of the many nationally recognized local restaurants and taste the hype for yourself. Similarly, make a point to stroll the markets and boutiques that are stocked for the season. Locally sourced entertainment options also abound and everything from historic tours to concerts and festivals offer familyfriendly fun and excitement. Summer days are longer, allowing you to fit in a little of it all. Get some ideas for playing tourist this summer from the following local favorites.
Isle Bourbon, Tropical Isle Original, Little Tropical Isle, Funky Pirate and the Bayou Club. While there, ask about the new Hand Grenade® Martini! Enjoy big screen TVs at Funky Pirate, Bayou Club, Tropical Isle Bourbon and Top of the Trop. For more on Tropical Isle, visit TropicalIsle.com. For a quiet escape, visit local favorite The Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar & Bistro right off of Bourbon at 720 Orleans Ave., which has more than 200 varieties of wine by the bottle and plenty of wine by the glass. For sample menus and wine lists, visit OrleansGrapevine.com. Red Gravy Brunch Waffle e Frutta
Dining
Copeland’s of New Orleans combines New Orleans flavor and comfort in a casual dining atmosphere. Known for its from-scratch cuisine, Copeland’s features a delicious combination of appetizers and small plates, which are great options for your lunch experiences. Copeland’s also features signature flavors of New Orleans dishes with seafood, pasta, salads, steaks and more. Enjoy exceptional food and hospitality by stopping at one of their locations today. Copeland’s Happy Hour is Monday-Friday, 4-7 p.m., and all week from 9 p.m.-close, in-lounge only. Happy Hour features half-priced well drinks, glasses of house wine, domestic bottled beer and all draft beer, $5 martinis, frozen daiquiris, peach bellinis and piña coladas, as well as $9.99 Crash & Burns and half-priced selected appetizers. For more information on Copeland’s of New Orleans, including menus and locations, visit CopelandsOfNewOrleans.com. Celebrating 175 remarkable years, Antoine’s Restaurant has been making history in the heart of the French Quarter, serving FrenchCreole cuisine with excellent service in an inviting comfortable 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. Throughout 2015, Antoine’s offers a seasonal $20.15 Lunch Special for parties of 15 or less. Perhaps start with the Oysters 1-1-1 or the creamy, chilled Vichyssoise potato soup before delighting yourself with Shrimp Bonne Femme or the Veal Florentine entrées. Or maybe you’d rather try the Summer Salad appetizer or the Roasted Chicken Breast entrée. For dessert, enjoy the Pecan Bread Pudding, Caramel Custard or the Meringue Glacée with Chocolate Sauce. While dining, sip on the day’s featured 25-cent cocktail. Enjoy happy hour at the Hermes bar daily from 4-7 p.m. For more information or to make reservations, visit Antoines.com or call 504581-4422. For a casual panini, gelato or coffee experience, visit Antoine’s Annex at 513 Royal St. (504-525-8045). This summer, stop by any of the Tropical Isles, home of the Hand Grenade®, New Orleans’ Most Powerful Drink®. Also, enjoy a Hand Grenade at Funky Pirate Blues Club or Bayou Club. Experience Trop Rock, Cajun/Zydeco & the Blues with Tropical Isle’s nightly entertainment, the best on Bourbon. State-of-the-art sound systems plus great live bands will keep you dancing the night away at Tropical 110
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What began as the dream of a 10-year-old Italian girl from northern New Jersey is now one of New Orleans’ most popular destinations for richly flavored, authentic Italian cuisine for brunch and lunch weekdays and weekends! Red Gravy was just named one of the 2015 Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America by OpenTable. The restaurant, aptly named for its famous house-made tomato sauce, is located in the midst of the CBD at 125 Camp St. A proud farm-tofork restaurant, Red Gravy locally sources most ingredients from local farmers, fishers and bakers and all pasta (including gluten free) is handmade. Open until 2 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays), Red Gravy offers a unique menu of Italian brunch and lunch items such as pastas, sandwiches, omelets, egg platters and the best meatballs in New Orleans! Popular entrées include the Tuscan Shrimp & Grits (Gulf shrimp, Tuscan beans, pancetta and tomatoes) and the Waffles & Wings with Roe’s Cranberry Habanero Jam. The bar offers handcrafted brunch cocktails such as the wickedly tasty Witch’s Coffee. View the menu and make your reservations online at RedGravyCafe.com, or call 504-561-8844. Located in the Lower Garden District just blocks from downtown New Orleans, Hoshun Restaurant delivers a flavorful punch of panAsian flavors with their own take on traditional dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam and other South-Asian countries. Popular menu items include pho soup, Vietnamese spring rolls, pad Thai, sushi, General Tso’s Chicken, Hunan steak, Kung Pao shrimp and more. Open daily until 2 a.m., Hoshun is a favorite late-night spot for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can look forward to the addition of sharable small plates to the menu in the near future.
ADVERTISING SECTION
Whether you’re looking for seafood, steak or vegetarian fare, Hoshun’s extensive menu provides options for everyone. Salt & Pepper Shrimp and Ahi Tuna Seared are a couple of Hoshun’s seafood specialties, while Butter Pepper Mignon offers a meatier possibility. For menu and information, visit HoshunRestaurant.com or call 504302-9716. Located at 1601 St. Charles Ave., Hoshun offers a private party room overlooking the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line fitting between 25-70 people. 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 restaurant is where locals and visitors from around the world come to enjoy traditional Creole cuisine in the largest courtyard in the French Quarter. Dinner is a romantic, memorable occasion. The expansive menu includes choices such as Grilled Gulf Fish with roasted corn maque choux, Crabmeat, Shrimp and Crawfish Penne Pasta with fresh tomatoes and green onion Parmesan cream and Roasted Half Duck over sautéed kale and wild rice. Guests are served by lamplight in the courtyard or in one of three elegant dining rooms. Daily, the Jazz Brunch Buffet provides a lavish display of hot and cold dishes served alongside live Dixieland music. Open seven days a week, the Jazz Brunch Buffet is served from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and their romantic Creole Dinners are served nightly from 5:3010 p.m. The restaurant is available to host special events in a beautiful setting with freshly prepared food and refreshing drinks all summer long. Reservations recommended. For more information, visit CourtOfTwoSisters.com or call 504-522-7261. Wayfare Meat Board and Pomme Frites
When describing the handcrafted food and spirits offered at
Wayfare, one of the newest dining establishments on burgeoning
Freret Street, “crafted” is the key word. Wayfare elevates sandwiches, salads and cocktails to new levels with fresher, finer ingredients. A sophisticated sandwich shop, Wayfare features homemade jams, spreads and mustards while offering unique side items, seasonal soups and a selection of Charcuterie and cheese plates. Sandwich favorites include the Knuckle (cold roast beef, shoe string potato crisps, pickled red onion, horseradish aioli, arugula on pretzel bun) and the BL(fg)T (fried green tomato, kurobuta bacon, red onion, spicy mayo and sweet potato hot sauce on seven-grain bread). Other offerings include a Roast Turkey with salsa verde aioli, a traditional Reuben and the flavor-packed Media Dia (black forest ham, salami, orange mojo pork, Swiss, house-made pickles, jalapeños, yellow mustard and charred onion. Side offerings include Kurobuta Mac & Cheese, Coleslaw, Collard Greens, Potato Salad, Quinoa & Kale and Roasted Marshmallowed Sweet Potatoes. For a full menu, including wine and cocktails, visit WarefareNOLA.com. Beat the heat with cool summer specials available at Ralph Brennan restaurants Ralph’s on the Park, Café NOMA and café b. Chef Chip Flanagan has revived his summer signature three
appetizers and a glass of wine for only $33 at Ralph’s on the Park. Now through August, choose three of 14 appetizers, like Smoked Fried Oysters or Cobia Crudo with Big Shot pineapple nuoc cham. For reservations, call 488-1000 today! Beginning June 26, Café NOMA’s 2014 “The Artful Palate” complimentary summer cooking series will feature seven artfully inspired demos with Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group chefs every other Friday at 6:30 p.m. From classic Creole cooking techniques to globally inspired gourmet eats, the chefs will embrace their own heritage or their culinary passion with each presentation. Visit CafeNoma.com for the full schedule and more information. Throughout June and July, café b celebrates summer with “Crab Fête,” appetizers and entrees at dinner that feature Lake Pontchartrain crabmeat, including Warm Crab Beignets or Flash Fried Soft-Shell Crab. Call 934-4700 or visit cafeb.com for online reservations. For a decade, Austin’s Restaurant has been known as Metairie’s hot spot for steak, seafood and the Creole-Italian creations of restauranteur Ed McIntyre and his esteemed culinary staff. Garnering awards and accolades from critics and readers alike, 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 Louisiana Creole Crab Salad and Oyster Fitzgerald, 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 Ave. in Metairie. For more information or to make reservations, call 504-8885533. Visit Austin’s online at AustinsNO.com. Private party rooms are available for luncheons, banquets and rehearsal dinners. McIntyre also oversees Mr. Ed’s Seafood & Italian Restaurant of Metairie and Kenner and Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House with its location in Metairie and its newest location in the historic French Quarter at Bienville and Decatur streets. Five Happiness, New Orleans’s award-winning Chinese restaurant, offers a delicious menu of Sichuan and Hunan specialties in a recently 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 504-482-3935 or visit FiveHappiness.com. Chappy’s Restaurant, located three blocks from beautiful Audubon Park on Magazine Street, is the perfect place for Sunday relaxation with its three-course, $15 Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m.3 p.m. featuring $6 Bloody Marys and Mimosas. Complimentary parking is available at Perlis. The restaurant’s nightly menu focuses on seafood and steaks with a strong emphasis on the Creole-Cajun style of cooking. Wild caught salmon and tuna, as well as scallops, speckled trout, redfish, shrimp and oysters are highlights along with lamb, chicken and steaks. The restaurant proudly incorporates products from local dairies, farmers and meat purveyors. Chappy’s is home of the famous Pork Chop Napoleon, two blackened pork chops stuffed with oyster dressing and fried oysters drizzled with French myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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tarragon béarnaise.
Chappy’s House-made Doberge Cake
Private dining and special events are available at the restaurant. Call 504-208-8772 to make reservations or book your function. View menus and more online at Chappys.com. Broussard’s Restaurant has been a true New Orleans treasure for 95 years, providing unsurpassed cuisine in an atmosphere of understated elegance and historical significance. Broussard’s recently completed a million dollar renovation of the long-standing gem in the French Quarter, keeping the glamour and refinement while providing an elegant sense of modernity. Today, Executive Chef Neal Swidler is overseeing the kitchen with more than 20 years of experience in some of the best kitchens in New Orleans. He offers a new dinner menu, including a dégustation menu, consisting of exciting new items, as well as some of his signature dishes. Expect many of the same classics with innovative new twists. For more information on Broussard’s and its lunch or dinner menu, please visit Broussards.com or call 504-581-3866 to make reservations. Bananas Foster, flambéed tableside, ranks highly as one of the most sought-after desserts by visitors to New Orleans, and these days it can be hard to find. But alas, Dickie Brennan’s Palace Café (PalaceCafe.com) has been lighting it up for over two decades in the historic Werlein Music building. Start off with the savory crabmeat cheesecake, next the andouille crusted Gulf fish with Crystal beurre blanc and finish with the Foster or the world famous white chocolate bread pudding. A visit to the French Quarter wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Jackson Square. With balcony and courtyard dining, Tableau (TableauFrenchQuarter.com) offers the best views. The culinary team revisits classic New Orleans cooking with a combination of European refinement and rustic simplicity. Using local ingredients, the culinary team updates New Orleans dishes, adjusting them ever-so-slightly to make them signature items at Tableau. One example is his Oysters en Brochette, Gulf oysters broiled on rosemary skewers with a roasted garlic buerre blanc. From 3-7 p.m. they offer special prices on wines, classic cocktails and small plates. For more nationally recognized cuisine in New Orleans, visit FrenchQuarter-Dining.com.
Shopping
You have gotten the beads, hurricane glasses, masks and shrunken alligator heads. But would you also like to take home something that’s stylish and beautiful and that you cannot get anywhere else? Then visit QUEORK, a fantastic French Quarter boutique that’s the first of its kind not only in New Orleans, but in the United States! QUEORK is a local business that specializes in fine handbags, shoes and accessories for fashion, home and office that all prominently feature natural cork “leather.” Cork leather comes from the same raw material as wine corks 112
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– the bark of the cork oak tree. Once the bark is removed by hand, which allows the tree to continue growing, it’s processed into a supple, waterproof, scratchproof, stain resistant, hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and durable fabric that QUEORK transforms into luxurious products. Visit QUEORK in the French Quarter and see the stunning array of colors and designs they offer. From handbags, wallets, belts, bowties, boots, jewelry, aprons, hats, and more – there’s something for everyone at QUEORK. You can even get a collar for your special four-legged friend. Visit QUEORK at 838 Rue Chartres or shop online at Queork.com. There is an oft-touted bit of womanly wisdom that many of us choose to ignore: The right bra will make your chest, back and shoulders look and feel better. No one understands this truth better than bra expert (or “Genie”) Jeanne Emory, owner of Bra Genie. For more than a decade, Jeanne has been working with women to enhance the comfort and fit of their bras with international brand names and a team of fitting experts. Bra Genie began in 2005 in Mandeville and has grown to a 3,500-squarefoot store with more than 200 bra size options available. Whether you are voluptuous and busty, or petite and small-breasted, looking to lessen the strain of that overnight shift, or to enhance your look for a night out, Jeanne and her team of expert fitters will ensure a style and feel that will revolutionize your undergarment wardrobe. Walk-ins, scheduled appointments and free shipping are all shopping options. For more information, visit TheBraGenie.com or call 985-9518638 to speak to a bra fit specialist. Now open: Bra Genie Baton Rouge Towne Center! Call 225-223-6114. While Trashy Diva is a distinctly New Orleans clothing company with five locations spread across the city, their vintage-inspired designs are known and coveted worldwide. For more than 18 years, Trashy Diva has provided customers with vintage flair and classic style. Original designs in dresses by Candice Gwinn suit a modern sensibility with a focus on creating feminine styles that flatter a variety of body types, from size 0 through 20 with styles available up to a size 24. Summer has arrived at Trashy Diva with their Southern-inspired Steel Magnolias print, Jade Watercolor print and Geisha Fans print. Shop swim at Trashy Diva with a variety of figure flattering retroinspired swimwear in polka dots, stripes, solids and nautical prints to complement your curvy figure! The clothing, lingerie and shoe boutiques are stocked with trendy florals and polka dots. Celebrating a bachelorette or birthday party? From bustiers to burlesque, host an after-hours event with Trashy Diva Lingerie for a memorable night of fun and entertainment. For more information, visit TrashyDiva.com or call 504-299-3939. Located in the heart of Mid City along booming Carrollton Avenue, lies söpö a warm and inviting space embodying the spirit of Southern Posh. Delightful gifts and home accents adorn the downstairs portion of the store where shoppers will find local favorites like Krewe du Optic and Loomed NOLA, along with international independents like Herschel Supply and Fishs Eddy. The second floor houses söpö’s hand-selected assemblage of women’s wear that epitomizes their spirited ideal for chic southern living. Airy linens and gauzy cottons are reimagined in of-the-moment shapes, courtesy of indie favorites like Ace & Jig and Ilana Kohn. Söpö’s playful spirit and discerning eye for design makes them a fundamental pit stop for any sartorial southern gentlewoman in the know. ”At the intersection of southern hospitality and international design,” söpö invites you to drop by, have a beer, bring your pup – they’ll be happy to see you! To find out more about söpö, head to SopoNola.com, like them on their Facebook page, or follow them via Twitter or Instagram using @ soponola.
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Entertainment
French Quarter Phantoms Ghost & Vampire Tours are fun for visitors
and locals alike. Listed as No. 5 in TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Ghost Tours in the World and the Discovery Channel’s Official Best of Louisiana 2015, this should be on everyone’s “Must Do” list. Grab a cocktail and walk along with their Master Story Tellers for a lot of great laughs and chills up your spine! Their fun guides have a passion for entertaining guests. Tours begin at 6 and 8 p.m. nightly year-round and are appropriate for all ages. For daytime fun, don’t miss the following unique walking tours: “Tour Treme,” rich in African American history and Mardi Gras Indian traditions, “Saints & Sinners,” a dirty little French Quarter history tour (adults only), “St Louis No. 1 Cemetery Tour” and “True Crime,” an exclusive tour that recounts stories such as the Axe Man serial killer. Online discounts are available through FrenchQuarterPhantoms.com. For more information, call 504-666-8300. Bold Sphere Music at Champions Square is bringing the best live entertainment to downtown New Orleans, attracting national music acts of every genre. With the Mercedes-Benz Superdome as the backdrop, the outdoor amphitheater is in a premier location. A custom-built, permanent stage is designed to give all guests clear sight lines of performances, and the setting makes each concert unforgettable. A remarkable upcoming calendar of events includes Boston on June 12, the Avett Brothers with Old Crow Medicine Show on July 18 and My Morning Jacket on July 31. This August, look forward to Colbie Caillat and Christina Perri on the 14th and Incubus & Deftones on the 16th. A variety of concert ticket packages are available for those seeking to maximize their concert experience. Exclusive VIP Box Seats and Premium Season Seats are available. VIP packages include personalized service, complimentary VIP club access, complimentary VIP parking and more. For more information please visit LiveNationPremiumSeats.com or to see a complete concert lineup, LiveNation.com. The French Market District is comprised of a scenic six-block stretch along the Mississippi River in New Orleans, from Café du Monde to the Farmers and Flea Markets and also includes The Shops at the Upper Pontalba on Jackson Square. Stroll this eclectic “neighborhood within a neighborhood” to experience historic architecture, al fresco dining, live music, boutique retail shopping and plenty of affordable, eclectic souvenirs. Three parking lots, two streetcar stops and accessible mule-drawn carriages and pedicabs plus bike parking and riverfront access make this a relaxing, family-friendly and manageable destination. The French Market’s signature annual festival is the French Market Creole Tomato Festival, which turns 29 years old in 2015. Last year’s inaugural Summer Harvest Gala, held the Wednesday before the festival, was such a success that it returns this year on June 10 with even more award-winning chefs. Guests will enjoy a quintessential Southern foodie experience served family-style at the historic French Market pavilion, prepared by a team of chefs led by Justin Devillier, Executive Chef of La Petite Grocery and Balise. Visit FrenchMarket. org for gala ticket and general festival information.
Accommodations
Fifth generation family-owned and operated for over 125 years, the historic Hotel Monteleone is located in the heart of the French Quarter on the famed Royal Street. Hotel Monteleone features 570 luxurious guest rooms including 55 suites. Each beautifully decorated guest room includes a Keurig coffee brewer and coffee, in-room safe, refrigerator, high-speed internet access (additional fees apply), large high-definition LCD television, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, plush robes, iHome clock radios and marble and granite bathrooms. Hotel Monteleone offers the award winning Criollo Restaurant,
the famous Carousel Bar & Lounge, heated rooftop swimming pool featuring the Acqua Bella Pool Bar, state-of-the-art 24/7 Fitness Center with panoramic views of the French Quarter and Mississippi River, full-service day spa, Spa Aria, on-site Business Center, Valet Parking, Wireless Internet Access, Pet Friendly and 24,000 square feet of meeting space in 24 meeting and reception rooms. For information and reservations, visit HotelMonteleone.com. When living the New Orleans experience, it’s important to envelop yourself in the essence of New Orleans – a feeling captured by each upscale property in the New Orleans Hotel Collection (NOHC). Authentic, independent and quality driven, each hotel offers its own story. From the chic, modern atmosphere of Hotel Le Marais to the historical and elegant Audubon Cottages, the New Orleans Hotel Collection is set apart by its distinctive style, personalized service and superb location. Locally owned and operated, the collection consists of the Bourbon Orleans, Dauphine Orleans, Crowne Plaza (Airport), The Whitney Hotel, Hotel Mazarin, Hotel Le Marais and Audubon Cottages. Service is standout at each property, ranking at the top of TripAdvisor.com listings as the No. 1, 2, 3, 6 and 15 hotels in the market. Unlike chain hotels, there’s no “nickel and dime” approach. NOHC offers free breakfast, local calls, newspaper, bottled artesian waters, WI-FI, a welcome drink, reward points and in-room coffee. New Orleans Hotel Collection, Hotel Le Marais
Earn STASH Hotel reward points, usable at over 200 independent hotels across the United States (STASHrewards.com). Enjoy a “staycation” this summer with the “Summer in the City” package! Visit NewOrleansHotelCollection.com.
Special Events
Set your sights on The Jaxson, New Orleans’ newest, most exciting French Quarter venue, only a short promenade from St. Louis Cathedral. Located on Decatur Street in the restored Jax Brewery Building, The Jaxson offers elegant surroundings, spectacular cuisine and an open floor plan capable of accommodating groups from 70 to 300. From the spacious outdoor terrace, you and your guests will enjoy an intoxicating view of the Mississippi River along with the sights, sounds and feel of the beautiful Crescent City. The Jaxson’s unique New Orleans ambiance and exceptionally adaptable space make it a truly exciting location for any special occasion, large or small, funky or elegant. At The Jaxson, personalized service is the central focus. The passion of The Jaxson staff is to make sure your event exceeds expectations. Their team will work closely with you to realize your vision and make your event as worry-free and enjoyable for you as it will be for your guests. If you’re ready to move from planning an event to creating an experience, contact The Jaxson today! Start planning your event by visiting TheJaxson.com or calling 504-571-6333. • myneworleans.com / JUNE 2015
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