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Editor: Donald Rickert
Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker
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Halloween! New Orleans
filled with ghosts, vampires, and ghouls, and our new issue covers them all.
Varner speaks with a modern-day Dracula to learn more about the vampire lifestyle, while Sabrina Stone teaches how to decorate for All Hallows Eve. Burke Bischoff explores the afterlife with Day of the Dead
its relation to All Saints Day.
that’s not scary enough for you, be sure to read Kim Ranjbar’s hauntingly beautiful take on local Victorian homes as well as our rundown of the best Halloween happenings.
if spooky isn’t your scene, this issue offers a profile of fabulous fall festivals, great movies to watch for Veterans Day, and the best bands to see live in concert.
a safe and happy Halloween.
Danzig, Publisher
When you think of New Orleans and vampires, what comes to mind? For most, it’s the iconic film Interview with the Vampire with Hollywood star boys Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, or the or new AMC+ TV series, both based on the novel by Anne Rice.
Or maybe the gruesome figures attributed to the Crescent City’s historical vampiric legacy, such as the Carter Brothers, Jacques St. Germaine, or maybe the Ursuline convent’s own Casket Girls. NOLA and her swamps are home to many worlds and cultures like gutter punks, voodoo practitioners, jazz fiends, and apparently werewolves, just to name a few, but to assume that the notion of creatures of the night gracing these streets is nothing more than Hollywood chicanery and tourist propaganda, well, you’d be dead wrong.
Despite the common cold, and dead portrayal of vampires, there are, in fact, a community of “vampires'' living right here in New Orleans. This week, late at night, I got the chance to chat with Maven, a vamp head figure, to get some insight into our shadowy neighbors.
Vampires live among us. Just ask one.
Where Y'at (WYA): Very appropriate timing for this. I dig it.
Maven (M): My bedtime is usually around 3 a.m. or 4:00 a.m., but I’ve been getting to bed earlier.
WYA: Off the bat, how close did Hollywood get?
M: Man, it’s all BS. I love the show True Blood, but, c’mon. Garlic tastes great on pizza, if you stab anything in the heart with a stake it’ll die, and I’m sure anyone would opt for a king-sized bed instead of a coffin. Interestingly, there were vampire hunters in the 90s, but we’ll circle back to that one.
WYA: So what makes a modern vampire?
M: If someone’s a vampire, they’ve usually had some type of “awakening” in youth, but there are three types. Sanguinarians—arethe actual blood drinkers.
The unlikely marriage between classic Italian recipes and the bright and mystifying flavors of the American South.
WYA: Real human blood?
M: Yes, real human blood—from tested donors, like a coworker, close friend, friend of a friend, etc. Mainly [it’s] romantic partners.
It’s very low-key because blood-letting ceremonies are illegal in New Orleans, but it’s what gets them feeling like a juvenated member of society.
WYA: I’m usually able to make do with one or two shots of espresso in the morning for that.
M: Then, there are “tantric vampires,” like me, who derive energy from physical touch, such as hugs, hand holding, or sexual encounters. Finally, “psychic vampires” easily absorb energy from a smile cast by a friendly stranger across the room.
WYA: Are American vampires just a New Orleans thing?
M: Hell no. There are hundreds of communities just in the U.S. alone. Europe’s got 'em, South America, Canada, etc.
WYA: How downlow are things kept?
M: Not so much anymore. Things used to be real elitist. I say you find your “real family” when you're older, and that’s what it’s like. Today, the vampire is more like a totem/ spiritual symbol. There’s who you are as an individual and what your totem is. We’ve got members whose totem would be werewolves or pixies, but maybe they’re also Catholic or Jewish. Anyone can join. There’s no one way to vamp.
WYA: How far back does the history go?
M: Well, I helped conceive today’s movement of the NOLA (vampire) scene. In the late 80s it was run by this Burlesque performer, Adrien Hunter, but it disbanded before too long when it was taken over by the Gutter Punks in the 90s. The Queen, Lady Kim, went convincing 'em, specifically the boys, that they were actually vampires.
WYA: Is it all one body or are there “tribes” like in the film, The Lost Boys M: We’d like to think we’re one big family, but we’re in different families or “houses.” There are about 100 different houses worldwide. The first one, publicly speaking, is “Temple House Sahjaza” (formed in 1976). Then, House of Lore, the O’Mallie Clan, House MacPhee, House of Storms, Orion, Rakoczy, etc. Cities have different houses that form a “court” which, like a town hall, brings together multiple families to make regional decisions about the community, gather for social reasons, or work on group projects.
WYA: What’s the structure like?
M: Every house/court depends on their own rules or goals. Some are monarchies, some are actual 501(c)(3) registered corporations dedicated to charity, some do social activism; others just cater to gender and sexual expression. Most of these may consist of “elder vampires” who mentor the younger leaders. For me, it was a wonderful woman named Lady Rosemary whom I owe everything to as far as my involvement goes.
WYA: If there are so many [vampires] walking around in New Orleans are y'all that obvious? Any hang out spots? I feel like Vampire Cafe might be a little too on the nose.
M: We’re not out here in corsets, capes, tophats, or any of that shit. Those are for posers. The lifestyle is embraced, but not flaunted; however, we’re probably at spots down Lower Decatur like Santos. I swear that place has a curse. No matter what they try turning [Santos] into—a gay club, sports bar, whatever—the goth kids always find a way to reclaim it. As for the Balls, those are the big events where everyone enjoys looking their Christmas best as far as the goth adornment goes.
WYA: Before we wrap things up here shortly, you mentioned vampire hunters?
M: Right. In the late 90s, there were these extremely radical/semi homicidal religious individuals that came to New Orleans with the intent to “send us back from whence we came.'' For instance, Lady Kim was literally stabbed in the chest with a stake, by this one guy at a bar, but was saved due to, let's say, some “conveniently sized attributes.”' She then proceeded to beat this guy and really f*** him up.
WYA: Wow! So what would you say to “lost” individuals who feel a calling to the community?
M: Great question. We’re in the beta stages of a national website called the Unity Project, a direct site to help people find communities by region, house, special interest, and upcoming events. Plus, you can contact the local community in New Orleans. Check it out at www.unityproject.life. It’s pretty bare right now but there are good leads on where to find communities especially in the South. And don’t worry if you’re not a vampire, we won’t bite. Unless you ask nicely.
Our neighborhood vampires might make for good company, after all. However, if you decide to invite one in for a drink sometime, I’d still keep that neck covered. While you might enjoy a Bloody Mary, your new friend might enjoy AB+ blood type much more.
Halloween is the season for all of the spooky, heartwarming, costumed, candyfueled chills. I’ve been watching horror films in anticipation since August and this has always been my favorite holiday to decorate. So, thank you for joining me at
As the young protagonist, Anne Shirley, infamously said in L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables series, "I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."
Have you queued up The Nightmare Before Christmas, Hocus Casper, or any of many gruesome slasher films, if you’ve you’ve decided to put the
When it comes to making bouquets, tabletop decorations, wreaths, hanging and flying creatures, there’s a way to
counteract the urge to overthink it—if in doubt, paint it black. My craft table setup starts with sharpies, witches’ hats, black crepe paper, black poster board, and a handy can or ten of Rust-Oleum “chalkboard black” spray paint. Not only does the paint work on wood, metal, glass, fabric, and stone, it’s got a matte finish that sucks the light out of the air like a black hole and, once it’s dry, you can write, draw, and erase on its surface with chalk (a craft on craft bonus).
You need: gourds or oranges, sharpies or black paint, or a pumpkin carving kit
There’s nothing as classic as carving a pumpkin, but, last year, we suffered a shortage, so here are some pumpkin alternatives. Use a sharpie to draw spooky faces on the peel of an orange or clementine (they make a cute lunchbox surprise). Carve or use paint to decorate gourds. Many
varieties of gourds are delicious, roasted, and take a few weeks to ripen, so the uncarved option becomes a recyclable side dish in November.
You need: simple drug store/ costume shop black witches’ hats, thick rope, and glow sticks.
Cutting a small hole in the top of a witch hat turns it into a giant ornament. Just tie a thick knot in the bottom of sturdy rope, attach a glow stick or battery powered LED light to it, thread the knot side inside the hat tip, tie the other end of the string to the eaves of your front or back porch, and repeat as many times as you like to create a whole glowing army of invisible witches, guarding the perimeter. This pairs nicely with outdoor spider webbing and homemade pipe cleaner spiders.
You need: black, brown, or gray poster board, cardboard, or construction paper, scissors, and tape or putty for attaching the bats to walls or black thread to make them fly.
Bats are pretty freeform. When drawing your shape, make sure that you’ve got a head with pointy ears, a furry body, and big wings, but otherwise, bats come in all shapes and sizes. Once you’ve drawn your design (or half of your design) with pencil on the colored board, just cut, pop them out, and apply them all over the house.
Bat facts: Did you know that bats give birth while hanging upside down? Did you know that baby bats are called pups? Did you know that they poop through their mouths? Did you know that the smallest species of bat, the bumblebee bat, weighs less than an ounce? And that the largest species of bat, flying foxes, have a wingspan of nearly 5 feet? So feel free to take liberties when creating your bats; they’re creative, fascinating, Darwinian creatures.
*A great trick, when you’re creating a string of, well, anything, is to tightly double, triple, or quadruple up a stack of paper to save time while you’re cutting. This also works really well when you’re trying to create a symmetrical image (like a bat), to fold the paper in half, cut one half of the image, then unfold to reveal both sides.
You need: a pot (I used a terra cotta one for gardening but you can use anything–fake flowers don’t require much), black spray paint, such as "chalkboard black,” to write on the container, a bunch of fake or dead flowers, and a ventilated or outdoor space to spray.
Simply make a bouquet, put it in the pot, and spray paint until there’s nothing left but black.
The glorious thing about a Halloween bouquet is that it can be one of the ugliest things you’ve ever seen. Feel free to slap it together haphazardly. Use old floral scraps and remnants, fabric flowers, paper flowers, real flowers that were alive and are now very much dead. Nothing needs to appear to go together. The stems you start with can be red, pink, green, yellow, rainbow—a sense of color has no bearing here. Everything we put in the pot is about to become black. And, once it does, it will magically come together.
You need: black picture frames or any color picture frames that you can paint black and an assortment of random weird, gross objects to frame.
Frame the creepiest things you can find: spiders, worms, sepia-toned pictures of someone else’s ancestors holding rusty farm equipment.
This is the season to switch out everything that’s heart-warming in your house and replace it with things that are skin-crawling.
Happy Halloweeny Season.
By Burke Bischoff
The Halloween season, at least in the United States, is known for its embrace and celebration of macabre imagery like monsters, witches, demons, and more. For other cultures, like our right-across-thesouthern-border neighbor, these grave images can hold deeper meanings that tie directly to family, heritage, and remembrance.
Miguel honors his unknown father by a Day of the Dead alter in Coco.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) focuses on celebrating life.
With roots in pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations like the Maya, Aztecs, and Toltecs, as well as traditions from Medieval Europe, Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a holiday that is firmly embedded in Mexican culture. In fact, even mentioning “Day of the Dead” will more often than not conjure skeletons, as well as living people with skull face paint, beautifully decorated in traditional and colorful Mexican attire. Anyone with even a passing knowledge of Mexico at least knows the main icon of its most famous holiday—sugar skulls that are decorated with beautiful designs and bright colors.
While the skulls are the most recognizable symbol associated with Day of the Dead, the holiday itself really does not have anything to do with Halloween or anything really ghastly. Its main attribute is to remember deceased family members, and it has more in common with the Western Christian events of All Saints Day and All Souls’ Day, especially since Day of the Dead is celebrated on the exact same days: November 1 and 2.
So how exactly is Día de los Muertos celebrated in Mexico? One of the most typical ways Day of the Day is observed involves a family gathering together and building an altar to deceased members of said family. Any child, parent, or even just animation fans who have seen Pixar Animation Studios’ 2017 film Coco will no doubt recognize that Día de los Muertos altars, also called ofrendas, are featured heavily in that movie. These altars can be decorated with photos of the deceased,
Christian iconography including crosses and images of the Virgin Mary, the departed’s favorite food (as well as a sweet bread specific to the holiday called pan de muerto, which is made to look it has a skull or crossbones on it), Mexican marigolds (also called cempasúchil), and either clay or sugar skulls (known also as calaveras) with names of the dead written across their foreheads. Altars can also contain toys for any of the family’s departed children, as well as tequila and mezcal for the dead adults. These altars can either be inside or outside a family’s home, or even at a loved one’s gravesite, and typically, families will gather around them for long periods of time to remember the deceased and pay their respects. The belief is that the altars attract spirits of family members, where they are greeted by their living family praying for them, as well as some of their favorite things that they enjoyed when they were alive, giving them some peace or a bit of happiness in the afterlife.
While Day of the Dead could definitely be seen as a solemn occasion by some, more often than not, just like New Orleans’ second line tradition, the holiday can be joyful and even humorous. Since the holiday is so family oriented, it serves as a way for extended families to gather and spend time with each other. There is also a custom called calaveras literarias, which literally translates to “literary skulls,” that has been associated with Día de los Muertos since either the 18th or 19th century. These are short poems or epitaphs that are light-heartedly written to mock either living or dead individuals and usually incorporate death-related imagery like skeletons, cemeteries, and even the Grim Reaper. Said individuals in these epitaphs can be either family members or friends, but calaveras literarias can also be written about historical or public features. In fact, these poems and prints
helped to solidify the skeletal image commonly associated with Day of the Dead. The progenitor was an early 1910s print titled La Calavera Catrina by an illustrator named José Guadalupe Posada, which showed a skeleton wearing a fancy 20th century hat and was meant to mock upper-class people who tried to look and dress more European-like.
Día de los Muertos is so deeply ingrained into Mexican culture and identity that the holiday can be found wherever there are large communities of Mexican people, which also includes the city of New Orleans. Not only does the Crescent City have a fairly sizable number of Mexican residents (especially after Hurricane Katrina), New Orleans saw much contact and exchanges with Mexico, as well as much of Latin America, during its history as one of the most important port cities in North America. In fact, one of Mexico’s most famous presidents, Benito Juárez, even lived in New Orleans two separate times in the 1850s when he was in exile from his homeland (a statue dedicated to him can actually be found at the intersections of Conti and Basin Streets). Not only do local Mexican restaurants in the city throw Day of the Dead themed events and get togethers, a parade celebrating Day of the Dead, and put on by the Krewe de Mayahuel, has been rolling in New Orleans since 2018.
So if you are walking through the streets of New Orleans and see colorfully decorated skulls being sold in a shop, do not assume they are just some Halloween decoration. Those skulls have a deep cultural importance to the people of Mexico and anyone of Mexican-descent. The skulls are a part of their identity, one that is defined by tradition and the importance of family.
There’s never a dull time to visit the New Orleans Historic Museum, but with the upcoming All Saints and All Souls Days, it's a great time of the year to do so.
By Frances DeeseFor 50 years, The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum has curated an experience for people from all strata of society to learn more about the origins and intricacies of voodoo. Situated in the heart of the French Quarter, between Bourbon Street and Royal Street, at 724 Dumaine Street, the museum’s location is reflective of the New Orleans’ roots that were a part of its founding. While there is no wrong time to learn more about how such a museum came about, and this fascinating topic with All Saints and All Souls Day coming up on November first and second, it is a great time of year to pay a visit and see what it has to offer.
It all began in 1972, when Charles Gandolofo, both an artist and hairdresser, opened doors with the range of artifacts he had collected. Throughout his life he became known as “Voodoo Charlie.” It became a family affair when his younger brother, Gerald, used his experiences from being a historian to help create the space for patrons where the many different topics of the artifacts could serve as educational tools. This is still carried throughout the museum today where the important origins of New Orleans voodoo are acknowledged.
The museum today is run by a team with vast experiences. It is now owned by Suzette, the younger sister of Charles and Jerry. Upon Jerry’s passing in 2017, Suzette carried on her brothers’ legacies by having great passion for the museum. The museum is managed by Carol, who has been with the museum for 35 years. NuAwlans Natescott is the tour guide, having been with the museum for many years. Two other team members are ones that not many other museums can claim to have. Madame Cinnamon Black is a voodoo priestess who has been with the museum for 30 years. There is also Frank, a fortune reader of tarot and bones. This team has a mission of bringing a casual and curious experience intended to preserve the legacy of New Orleans' voodoo history and culture. While education is their goal, entertainment also drives their purpose.
Suzette and Carol explained that besides educating
and entertaining, they hope to inform visitors that voodoo is about white magic. The whole team aims every day to debunk the myth that it is solely focused on dark magic, as pop culture and people’s perceptions portray it. Part of this mission has involved making people aware that voodoo is a very personal and private experience, unlike more mainstream religions. New Orleans voodoo certainly still has some social aspects, especially due to the Catholic influence, but many rituals within it are done individually. The various colors of the gris-gris and their meanings, the dolls (which are uniquely New Orleans), and other ritual objects fill the museum. The team has somehow found a way to translate that largely private experience that voodoo is into the layout of the museum. Some of the pieces within the museum are Herbert Singleton carved statues, and to be expected, a large portrait of Marie Laveau. It has an inviting atmosphere, and the number of unique artifacts that are featured give visitors much to ponder.
Over the last five years, they have had several renovations, and added more categories to the museum. They constantly try to help those interested learn more by providing whatever further answers they can. They also can help assist interested persons in services by connecting them with contemporary contacts who specialize in psychic readings, consultations, special gris-gris, rituals, and ceremonies. An exciting development that is in the works is a website where those who are interested in purchasing these objects can shop.
There will also be works of art on site to help support local artists. The whole team of the museum is dedicated to the upkeep of the authenticity that is part of the city. One way they are paying
homage to the city is their walking tours. While these tours visit the exciting and important locations of Congo Square and Marie Laveau’s house, they also make a stop at St. Louis Cemetery. This is where Nate, who fully goes by NuAwlans Natescott (loatourbynate.com), comes in. Nate shared that it was actually Mark Twain who gave the cemeteries their nicknames.
While second line jazz funerals are one of the most iconic funeral rituals in the world, Nate spoke more about All Saints and All Souls Day. While All Souls Day is a Catholic tradition, the merging of the two represents the melting pot of religion that lies in New Orleans. These days the traditions include families coming through to the cemeteries, bringing food and cleaning utensils. It is a community effort, with local boy scout troops coming in to help some years. Nate spoke of an interesting tale in which Marie Laveau’s snake Zombi still haunted the cemetery.
The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum has stood the test of time by informing and entertaining visitors and also meeting their curiosity.
The museum hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. Admission is $10 for adults, and $8 for seniors, military, and students. For more information or to book your tour in honor of the season, visit voodoomuseum.com or call (504) 680-0128.
By Kim Ranjbar
What is it about a Victorian home that makes it the perfect setting for ghost stories and horror films? They're used prolifically across the spookiest of genres, from Scooby Doo and House to The Addams Family and Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho.
Victorian elegance also inspires imaginations during Halloween
Some might proclaim that the peculiar features, including fairy talelike towers, intricate gingerbread details, scalloped siding, and decorated apexes of steep, towering roofs make for the perfect, fantastical backdrop. Add to that, Victorian-style houses typically have an asymmetrical layout with small wings and added stories jutting out every which way you look—a visual effect which
may be something a bit more modern, it's hard to deny the unique elegance and opulence of Victorian-style buildings, and their mysterious and uncanny characteristics which make them all the more interesting. In New Orleans, Victorian architecture flourished from the 1870s to the 1900s. Examples of these types of extravagant homes can be found all over the city, setting a sharp contrast
tends to make people uncomfortable.
Another reason for their unusual eeriness could stem from the era itself. The Victorian era is formally marked by Queen Victoria's reign in England, a period that stretched from 1837 to 1901. Many things occurred during this time, making it one of the most macabre in history, beginning with the Queen herself, who was so crushed by the death of her husband Prince Albert (1861), she withdrew from the public and went into mourning for ten years. She wore black mourning dresses for the remainder of her life. At the time, it was also fashionable for ladies of the court to imitate their ruler's garb, so everyone was wearing black.
Also during this period was the deadly invention of “Scheele's green,” a pigment created by a Swedish chemist made with copper arsenite. Textile manufacturers went ga-ga over the color and it was incredibly hip to have this bright green, arsenic-laced color in your wallpaper and drapes in the 19th century. Another ghastly trend in high society were mummy unwrapping parties, where ancient trinkets found in Egyptian wrappings were handed out like party favors while amateur scientists desecrated the dead.
What does all this have to do with the seemingly inherent spookiness of Victorian houses? Maybe our fascination with death during this time somehow became imbued in the architecture? Or perhaps it all stemmed from one person's imagination, creating an ominous, chilling fiction from the abandoned Victorian house sitting at the end of his block.
Though your particular dream home
to the Creole townhouses and cottages of the French Quarter. Here's just a scant few worth pulling over or jumping off the streetcar for a closer look.
Sitting alone on the corner of Canal and N. Derbingy, long derelict and surrounded by commercial buildings including the industrial supply store Fastenal and used car lots, the colorful Queen Anne Victorian has been repaired and renovated. Now in all white, like a blushing bride, this lone beauty has begun a new life as a kind of whole-home AirBnB. Locally known as the Chateau D'Arcy, the house at 1800 Canal Street is a gorgeous Queen Anne with some Second Empire thrown in for good measure. Built in 1879 by the twice-widowed Jane D'Arcy, the building was originally intended as a high end ice cream saloon for ladies only. Today, the building can be rented in its entirety on Booknightly.com for $1,500 a night. The “hotel room” sleeps 16, featuring eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and an outdoor pool.
A couple of years ago, in October 2020, the LeBlanc + Smith hospitality group renovated a 19th century mansion on St. Charles Avenue and launched The Chloe, a 14-room boutique hotel replete with swimming pool, bar and restaurant. Located in the Milan neighborhood, The Chloe was originally built in 1900, right
for Francis Johnson, a successful local undertaker who owned most of the block, as well as a lot of other property in the city. Unfortunately, Johnson died only a few years after the house was completed and was buried in Lakelawn Cemetery.
In the 1950s, the house was purchased and broken up into apartments, but the structure began to decay and was abandoned for many years. In 1997, Bonnie Rabe purchased the derelict building and took great pains to lovingly restore the home to its former glory and fill it with antique furnishings from the period. Like many historic properties in New Orleans, the Grand Victorian is reputedly haunted by several entities, most notably Mr. Johnson himself, who loves to sit in front of the fireplace in the parlor. There's also a female ghost who appreciates the inn's genial caretaker Hoyt Dottry, but likes to play tricks on anyone else who might be working on the house.
at the end of the Victorian era by famous local architect Thomas Sully. Though a lot has changed in the renovation of this historic gem, many of the original features still remain from the elaborately carved, wooden banister and wainscoting to the scalloped siding and keyhole mill work. Luckily, you don't have to reserve a room to enjoy the stunning architecture. Feel free to grab a drink at the bar (overhung by a stunning woodcoffered ceiling) or enjoy lunch à la Chef Todd Pulsinelli in the hotel's eponymous restaurant.
Designed and built in 1893 by, you guessed it, locally renowned architect Thomas Sully, this Queen Anne is now the Grand Victorian Bed & Breakfast. One of the few licensed B&Bs in the Garden District neighborhood, the inn features six guest rooms, three larger suites, and a front row seat to all of the Mardi Gras parades that roll down St. Charles Avenue. The Grand Victorian was originally built as a private home
4032 Prytania Street Built in 1850, this Queen Anne stunner gets folks a-gawking every time they drive by. Though the residence has been sectioned out into apartments, and it's been through some pretty rough times as is evidenced by its multihued roof and lackluster paint job, it's hard not to stop and stare at the three-story, double gallery tower that faces the corner of Prytania and Margeno streets. A lot may have changed on the inside, but the exterior begs to be photographed with a multitude of dormers, steep, peaked roofs, intricate mill work and ornamental cresting and cladding.
These neighboring Queen Anne Victorian homes bear a marked resemblance, as they should, considering both the Pink Lady and the Blue Lady were built and designed in 1889 by architect Louis Lambert. Though the Blue Lady is currently undergoing some serious renovations, the Pink Lady stands in all her grace sporting a peaked tower, elaborate lace-like mill work and even a gargoyle atop the entryway pediment.
The Pink Lady looks awfully innocent in her peachy hues and lacy trim, but who knows what lurks inside?
The fluttering flame of a New Orleans’ gaslight adds to the city’s nostalgic feel and historic flair. Gaslights adorn homes and businesses all around the city, from the Cabildo to Commander’s, the Bywater to Bourbon Street.
And everywhere you see one, it’s like stepping back in time to the days when life was simpler, gas was cheaper, and flickering lights didn’t mean that you had an electrical short.
We’re not gaslighting you when we tell you that there are many interesting things you ought to know about gaslights. Here are some of them.
Back in the dark ages, things were very dark. But then came fire, then torches, then oil lamps and candles, and the world was a much brighter place. Lamps were burned with all types of oil—olive oil, fish oil, sesame oil, nut oil, and whale oil, which was especially popular until people finally caught on that whales make better ocean swimmers than lamp fuel.
However, these prehistoric lighting methods were inefficient and shone minimal light—enough to read by or to recognize who might be standing next to you in the darkness, but not enough to light up an entire area, such as that of a street or house.
Not to mention that the open flames of candles were dangerous and often led to major fires when cloak or curtain got in the way—including the Great New Orleans Fire of 1788, which started in this manner.
As far back as the Middle Ages, residents of London and Paris were forced to put lamps in their street-facing windows with the goal of lighting up the streets outside. They risked being charged a fine if no light shone from within their homes. It was a crude version of street lighting; the feeble glow wasn’t even sufficient to prevent nocturnal wanderers from stumbling over those renowned London paving stones in the dark.
The precursor to the modern gaslight dates back as far as ancient China. As long ago as 500 B.C., the Chinese began using bamboo pipes to bring natural gas into their homes to provide both light and heat. This is nearly the same concept still
Fast-forward approximately 1,200 years to the streets of London, where gaslights as we think of them now were first installed. Most people credit William Murdoch with the invention. In 1792, Murdoch discovered that coal gas, which is made by burning coal inside a closed container, would produce a nice, bright flame. He figured out that if the gas passed through a pipe and into a metal and glass lamp, and it was then ignited, the flame would burn continuously as it was fed by the incoming gas. The earliest gas lantern was born. By 1807, Murdoch’s new creation was lighting up the streets of London, with Pall Mall the first street to be fully lit by gas. Paris followed by installing gas-lit street lamps in 1820. When the famous Paris Opera House was built in 1875, it was constructed with 28 miles of gas piping and 960 gas jets. The Equestrian Amphitheatre in London had 200,000 gas jets.
Candles simply couldn’t hold a candle to gaslight and its slew of advantages. It was 75% cheaper and didn’t drip wax on heads. And with gaslight, 18th-century citizens were able to take back the night. The added light made for increased productivity, more fun, and better safety. People could work into the wee hours or enjoy late-night social activities, and crime rates dropped.
On the other hand, gaslight was far from foolproof as a method of illumination. It often resulted in leaking pipes, excess heat, and explosions. In the 1800s, hundreds of theaters burned down due to gaslighting misfortunes. And gaslights were also extremely laborintensive, requiring professional lamplighters to light every single lamp in the evening and extinguish them all come daylight.
The first U.S. city to be graced by gaslight was Baltimore, followed by Philadelphia. New Orleans came next, with gaslighting arriving here in 1824, and it stuck.
The success of gaslights in New Orleans was thanks in large part to Andrew Bevolo Sr., of the famous Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, located in the French Quarter.
The term “Gaslighting,” which has now attained buzz-word status, refers to the psychological manipulation of someone to make that person question their perception of reality.
It derives from the classic 1944 film Gaslight, based on Patrick Hamilton's stage play, in which a husband convinces his wife that she’s insane in order to make ripping her off easier.
During and just before World War II, Bevolo had worked building aircrafts, helicopters, and landing craft for the D-Day invasion. Following the war, he put his metalworking skills to work and opened a business. He repaired gaslights that had been damaged in the air raids in London, and also began building
Every time her husband is up to something, the gaslight in the house flickers.
Today’s gaslights no longer use coal gas, but usually propane, butane, or natural gas. Although gaslights blaze throughout cities around the world, there are probably tens of thousands of them just within New Orleans.
Gaslights are much sturdier, safer, and cheaper to maintain than they used to be. They are made from copper, which is pounded by hand, and held together by exactly 97 rivets per light. Each light can last for up to 300 years.
Flambeaux, another gaslight company out of Metairie, takes the inspiration for their handcrafted lights from the flambeaux carriers that march in Mardi Gras parades. This Carnival tradition derived from the enslaved people who once carried torches to light the way for others, and Flambeaux considers their lighting a tribute to them and to the history of New Orleans. There’s just something about the romantic glimmer of a burning gaslight that draws everyone in like moths to a flame. “People come from all over the world come to New Orleans and fall in love with our city,” says Sarah Winston of Bevolo. “Gaslights are efficient and gorgeous, with a timeless beauty. They have become synonymous with the charm and old-world feel of the French Quarter.”
I would get very sleepy around 8 p.m., unlike my peers, but I just dealt with feeling tired and irritable every night. I would also feel so exhausted during the afternoon that I could barely function, but everyone gets that “midday slump,” right?
I finally decided to see if there was in fact something wrong with the way that I was sleeping because I felt like I had far less energy than most people. After undergoing a sleep study, I was diagnosed with mild/moderate obstructive sleep apnea; I was waking up an average of 12 times an hour while sleeping. I then sought out a special sleep dentist who fitted me with an oral orthotic that keeps my lower jaw in place so it doesn’t fall back and close my airway, and I had a turbinate reduction surgery to allow more air to go through my nose.
After a short adjustment period, I had the first truly good night of sleep I’ve ever had. And I’ve had good sleep nearly every night since. I sleep soundly throughout the night, my dreams aren’t as vivid and tiring, and I don’t have energy crashes during the day. This journey to good sleep led me to understand the immense importance of sleep hygiene for my own health and how bad sleep patterns can negatively affect people.
In a study entitled, “Why Sleep Matters—The Economic Costs of Insufficient Sleep,” by Marco Hafner, Martin Stepanek, Jirka Taylor, Wendy M. Troxel, and Christian van Stolk, it was concluded that poor sleep can lead to severe consequences. “The CDC in the United States has declared insufficient sleep a ‘public health problem.’ Sleep loss and sleep-related disorders have been linked to a number of accidents and catastrophes including the Chernobyl nuclear explosion, the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, the Exxon Valdez spill, and the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy. The findings of the economic analysis in this report suggest, lower productivity levels and higher mortality risks related to insufficient sleep can result in substantial economic losses to modern economies. Our economic predictions indicate that in absolute terms, the U.S. sustains by far the highest annual economic loss (between $280 billion and $411 billion currently, depending on the scenario).”
If you find that you’re not getting at least seven restful hours of sleep each night, you may benefit from increasing your sleep hygiene. In order to start getting healthy sleep, you have to unplug, literally. We are so attached to our phones and TVs that our brains are often over-stimulated, and that can lead to overactive brains that aren’t able to properly rest. To begin a good night of sleep, break away from your electronics. Don’t bring your phone to bed and scroll through social media or watch videos, and
By Emily HingleI thought it was normal waking up between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. every morning and staying awake for a few hours before getting one more hour of sleep before the alarm went off.
don’t fall asleep with the TV on (even if you’re used to it). For at least one hour before getting into bed, do something that does not include a screen. Reading books, taking a hot shower or bath, or listening to soothing, light music can shift you into relaxation mode. Your phone may have a “do not disturb” feature that stops it from ringing or lighting up, which can help limit distractions.
Along with not bringing technology into your bed, keep the entire bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. If you find that you need some sort of sound to sleep, a white noise machine can offer cover noise without being distracting.
Don’t eat or drink immediately before bedtime. Large meals in particular can upset your digestive system, and regularly having a meal before bed slows down your metabolism. Obviously, caffeinated beverages before bed are a bad idea since they can keep you awake. Drinking any liquids within an hour before sleeping may make you need to wake up and go to the bathroom during the night.
Your sleep should be part of your daily routine, so try to go to bed at the same time every night. Your body’s natural rhythm will be more in sync overall if you allow yourself to sleep on a schedule. This also includes waking up at the same time every morning. You shouldn’t totally change your lifestyle, like not going to late-night concerts, so that you can hit the sack at 8 p.m. every night, but be aware of your habits and try to include good sleep as much as possible.
Getting your body to start sleeping better takes time. Allow your body and brain to adjust to all these changes. If you find that you just can’t go to sleep when you’ve set your bedtime, try out some relaxation techniques. You can do breathing exercises, meditation, and muscle relaxation to help you unwind. You should ask your doctor about sleep disorders (narcolepsy, sleep apnea, insomnia, etc.) if you feel that you just can’t get proper sleep.
Having a good night’s sleep absolutely depends on what you do in your waking hours. Living a sedentary lifestyle can affect your sleep negatively since you aren’t expelling enough energy. Getting in exercise during the day can help you sleep better at night. Naps can be refreshing at times, but too much napping is not good when you can’t go back to sleep at night.
I hope you have a good night’s sleep tonight.
Blue Nile Corey Henry and the Treme Funktet, George Brown Band
Cafe Negril New Orleans Rug Cutters, The Sierra Green Show, The Villains
D.B.A. Little Freddie King
DMACS Sean Hobbes & the Hi Res
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Faubourg Brewing Co. Paws on the Lawn Joy Theater Drew Holcomb
Kerry Irish Pub Hugh Morrison
Lakefront Arena Kevin Gates
Le Bon Temps Roulé Marina Orchestra
Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French Trio, Kevin Louis
Musician’s Village The Slow Drop
NOPSI Hotel aPeal Music
Oak Wine Bar Michael Mason
One Eyed Jacks Rhythm & Rain
Trio
Palm Court Jazz Cafe Will Smith
Preservation Hall Charlie Gabriel, Shannon Powell
Public Belt Philip Melancon Republic NOLA EDMO
Saturn Bar Guts Club, Dissolve
Spotted Cat Music Club Panorama Jazz Band, Shake’em Up Jazz Band
The Howlin Wolf Barefoot + Sunshine
The Jazz Playhouse Nayo Jones
The National WWII Museum Victory Swing Orchestra
Tipitina’s Maggie Koerner
Westside Bowling Lanes Will Wesley
Atchafalaya Troy Sawyer
Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers Combo
Blue Nile The Baked Potatoes, Street Legends Brass Band
Buffa’s Bar Some Like it Hot Bullet’s John Pierre Music
Cafe Negril The Love Muscles, Vegas Cola Commons Club Jenn Howard Music
Constantinople Stage Helen Gillet
D.B.A. Joslyn & The Sweet Compression, Palmetto Bug Stompers
DMACS Icarus Jones, Sean Hobbes
Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar Will Wesley Gasa Gasa Panterah & Minuit Machine
Gretna Heritage Festival Gov’t Mule
Gretna Municipal Court The Beach Boys, Warren Haynes
House of Blues Truth & Salvage Co.
Le Bon Temps Roulé Dr. Lo Faber
Mahogany Jazz Hall Mahogany Jazz Hall Band ft. Roderick Paulin
Maple Leaf Bar Keiko June Donald Trio
Misa Justin Curry
One Eyed Jacks The Deslondes
Orpheum Theater Wallows + Empath Preservation Hall Preservation Legacy Band ft. Gregg Stafford
Snug Harbor AMINA FIGAROVA SEXTET
St. Roch Market Sundays at St. Roch ft. Semaj and Dorise - The Blues Experiment
The AllWays Lounge Swing Night
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band, NOLAxNOLA: Dean Johanesen
The National WWII Museum Dine & Dance with the Victory Swing Orchestra
Zony Mash Beer Project Or Shovaly Plus
MONDAY, OCTOBER 10
Cafe Negril Cristina Kaminis
Experimental rock band The Garden, along with acts Flipper and kumo 99, are coming to the House of Blues. The band has a very punkinfluenced sound and has toured in many different countries.
Friday, October 14, 7 p.m., $25 to $62.50, House of Blues, houseofblues.com
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet Bombay Club Harry Mayronne & Nanci Zee Cafe Negril The Budz, Colin Davis and Night People
Carousel Lounge James Martin Band Civic Theatre Lucy Dacus
D.B.A. Walter “Wolfman” Washington & The Roadmasters
Livaudais Hall Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
Mahogany Jazz Hall Jamil Sharif New Orleans Jazz Extravaganza
New Orleans Jazz Museum Amina Scott Palm Court Jazz Cafe Leroy Jones & Katja
Toivola with Crescent City Joymakers
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds: Robin Barnes & Pat Casey
Republic NOLA YVNGXCHRIS, SSGKobe
DMACS Monday Blues Jam
Gasa Gasa Pearl Charles
Joy Theater Arlo Parks
Mahogany Jazz Hall The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Republic NOLA Role Model
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Cafe Negril The Super-Most-Fantastic-Blues-NSuch Jam Gasa Gasa Carver Commodore Mahogany Jazz Hall Joe Lastie’s New Orleans Sound ft. Gregg Stafford
Maple Leaf Bar TBC Brass Band Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl DJ Maynor New Orleans Jazz Museum Arrowhead Jazz Band, Dile Que, Jazz Yoga, The Ella Project Crescendo Session
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
The Goat Empathy Test & Nite
The Howlin’ Wolf Comedy Beast Tipitina’s Pigeons Playing Ping Pong + Funk You
DMACS Brown Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore
Pusha T
Gasa Gasa Vandoliers & Mike and the Moonpies House of Blues Electric Ramble Maple Leaf Bar Marc Stone 3 Plus 1 and Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr.
New Orleans Jazz Museum R.L. Boyce & Lightnin’ Malcolm Santos Bar Noah Vonne Southport Hall Deadsled Halloween Costume Party
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Shotgun Jazz Band
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet Bullet’s Kermit Ruffins Cafe Negril Gumbo Funk, Piano Man ‘G’, Sierra Green
DMACS Paggy Prine, Pizza Fam Jam Band, ROULE’
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Gasa Gasa Mire Child with Paul Emden and BLK
Siberia Marina Orchestra
Silk Road KatieCat & Cain
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band
Toulouse Theatre Eddie Roberts
Wetlands Sake Live Music Series
BJ’s Lounge Anna Laura Quinn
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers Bullet’s Sporty’s Brass Band Cafe Negril Dana Abbott Band, HIgher Heights, Paradise Jazz Band Civic Theatre The Midnight DMACS Jamey St. Pierre Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Double Dealer Eric Johanson Gasa Gasa Casket Robbery House of Blues The Garden Mahogany Jazz Hall Smoking Time Jazz Club Trio Marigny Opera House Fantômes
Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl Contraflow
NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler New Orleans Jazz Museum
Muevelo
New Orleans Museum of Art Majid Bekkas Orpheum Theater Marcus Mumford
Poor Boys Wizard Fest New Orleans River Shack Gretna Old Barstools
Republic NOLA Shrek Rave
Riverbend Music Room Alice Howe
Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band
The Broadside Eric Lindell & The Golden Twilight Orchestra
The Howlin’ Wolf DGoldenX
Tipitina’s Free Agents Brass Band, Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr.
Toulouse Theatre Nick Shoulders
Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson
Blue Nile George Brown Band, Gov’t Majik: Fela Kuti Birthday Tribute Show
Cafe Negril The Sierra Green Show, The Villains Colette New Orleans Gothic Vampire D.B.A. The Soul Rebels
DMACS Maybe Festival Acadian with Father
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Faubourg Brewing Co. Celebración Hispana
Fillmore Beaucoup Burlesque
Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin
Gasa Gasa Ethanol Merman
House of Blues flor, Jessie Reyez
Joy Theater The Emo Night Tour
Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French Trio
New Orleans Jazz Museum Jazz Yoga
Old Arabi Bar Jenn Howard Music
One Eyed Jacks Them ol’ Ghosts with Brother Hawk
Orpheum Theater Mt. Joy + The Brook & The Bluff, The Slick Skillet Serenaders
Palm Court Jazz Cafe Will Smith
Port Orleans Brewing Co. Better Than Ezra Republic NOLA sumthin sumthin & Inzo
Sidney’s Saloon Ever More Nest, Kelcy Mae
Smoothie King Center Mary J. Blige
Spotted Cat Soul Brass Band
The Broadside KUMASI & PAPA TITOS
SOMPA
The Jazz Playhouse Nayo Jones
The Neutral Ground Frenchie Moe & Family Tipitina’s Breakup Shoes, We Were Promised Jetpacks
Toulouse Theatre Two Feet
Zony Mash Beer Project Majid Bekkas
Banks St Bar Brother Thunder
Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers Combo
Blue Nile The Baked Potatoes, Street Legends Brass Band
Buffa’s Bar Some Like it Hot
Bullet’s Sports Bar 24/7 Band
Cafe Negril John Lisi & Delta Funk, Vegas Cola D.B.A. Palmetto Bug Stompers, Treme Brass Band
Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar Rhythm & Rain Trio
Gasa Gasa Blushing with Kay Weathers and Whisper Party
House of Blues Skip Marley, Victor Wooten
Bass Extremes
Le Bon Temps Roulé Dr. Lo Faber
Mahogany Jazz Hall Roderick Paulin Misa Justin Curry
Music Box Village Meridian Brothers
Orpheum Theater Turnstile with Snail Mail + JPEGMAFIA
Palm Court Jazz Cafe Mark Braud & Sunday Night Swingsters
Smoothie King Center Mary J. Blige
St. Roch Market Semaj and Dorise - The Blues Experiment
The Broadside An Evening with Shantytown Underground
The Howlin’ Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
DMACS Monday Blues Jam
Gasa Gasa KHALIKO & Zach Deputy House of Blues The Front Bottoms
Mahogany Jazz Hall The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band
Southport Hall The Haxans
The Howlin’ Wolf Maria Bamford
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Cafe Negril The Super-Most-Fantastic-BluesN-Such Jam
Deutsches Haus Kulturabend Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl DJ Maynor New Orleans Jazz Museum Arrowhead Jazz Band, Jazz Yoga, The Ella Project Crescendo Session
One Eyed Jacks Spelling Orpheum Theater FKJ
Saturn Bar Secret Cowboy/ TVOD/ Yellow Nymphos/ Will Roesner Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
The Howlin’ Wolf Comedy Beast Tipitina’s Indigo Girls
Balcony Music Club Or Shovaly Plus
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet
Cafe Negril The Budz, Colin Davis
Carousel Lounge James Martin Band
Constantinople Stage Jamey St Pierre Trio
D.B.A. Walter “Wolfman” Washington & The Roadmasters
DMACS Matt Bartels
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Noruz with Smiloh
Jefferson Performing Arts Center The Black Jacket Symphony
Republic NOLA HDTV Tour, Tai Verdes Saenger Theatre YES
Saint Louis Cathedral Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Shotgun Jazz Band
Tipitina’s The War & Treaty
B Mac’s Dave Jordan
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet
Cafe Negril Piano Man ‘G’, Sierra Green
DMACS ROULE’, Jessie Ritter
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Gasa Gasa Jeffrey Martin with Sarah Burke
Mahogany Jazz Hall Jamil Sharif New Orleans Jazz Extravaganza
Maple Leaf Bar Brian Haas & Johnny
Vidacovich & James Singleton
Midnight Revival MG Bailey
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds: Robin Barnes & Pat Casey
River Ridge Library Read & Sing
Silk Road KatieCat & Cain
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band
AllWays Lounge Kinky Kaberet
Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson
Blue Nile Big Sam’s Funky Nation, George Brown Band
Cafe Negril Cristina Kaminis, Jason Neville Funcky Soul Band, The Sierra Green Show,
Band
DMACS Sapphire’s Garden
Gasa Gasa Neighbor Lady with Jonny Campos and Today’s Hunks and Molly Taylor
Le Bon Temps Roulé Dr. Lo Faber
Misa Justin Curry
One Eyed Jacks Mr Phyzzzz with Totem and sunrise:sunset
St. Roch Market Semaj and Dorise - The Blues Experiment
The Howlin’ Wolf Ryan Cabrera, Hot 8 Brass Band
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport
Fillmore Marcus King
Gasa Gasa Will Roesner’s Band with Oruã, Laminate, and Shmoo House of Blues BabyJake, Serabee
Mahogany Jazz Hall Jamil Sharif New Orleans Jazz Extravaganza
Orpheum Theater King Gizzard
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds: Robin Barnes & Pat Casey
Saturn Bar Ben Gagel
Silk Road KatieCat & Cain
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Jumbo Shrimp Jazz Band
Country music superstar Chris Stapleton is bringing his AllAmerican Road Show to New Orleans. The singer-songwriter has amassed numerous awards for songs like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Traveller.” Saturday, October 22, 7 p.m., $85.75 to $761, Smoothie King Center, smoothiekingcenter.com
The AllWays Lounge Secrets of the SeaGoosebumps Hotel
The Broadside Live Score: Häxan: Witchcraft through the Ages
The Howlin’ Wolf Comedy Gumbeaux Wetlands Sake Live Music Series
Zony Mash Beer Project Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers Buffa’s Bar Dom Pipkin and the Ikos Bullet’s Sporty’s Brass Band
Cafe Negril Higher Heights, Paradise Jazz Band
D.B.A. Free Creatures & Minos The Saint DMACS Hallelujah Hat Rack, The Joey Houck Band
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Deutsches Haus Damenchor–Ladies Choir, Saengerchor–Men’s Choir
Gasa Gasa Guerilla Toss with Frank Hurricane House of Blues Panchiko Mahogany Jazz Hall Smoking Time Jazz Club
Trio
Music Box Village Dinner with Black Roux
Culinary
NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler
Parisian Courtyard Inn Pinky DeVille
Public Belt Philip Melancon
Republic NOLA ISOxo
Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band
The Howlin’ Wolf Enter The Realm Tipitina’s J & The Causeways with Eddie 9V Toulouse Theatre Duckwrth
D.B.A. Tuba Skinny
DMACS Primus Roman Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Faubourg Brewing Co. Kendall Street Company, Tenth Mountain Division Generations Hall JT & The Ka-nection Band Hi Ho Lounge Hustle with Soul Sister House of Blues Lyfe Jennings Joy Theater Control Your Narrative Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French Trio,Kevin Louis Maple Leaf Bar Brian Haas & THE MIKE DILLON BAND
New Orleans Jazz Market Adonis Rose Oak Wine Bar Mikayla Braun
One Eyed Jacks Killer Whale with Amelia Neville and Johnny Campos
Palm Court Jazz Cafe Mark Braud & Sunday Night Swingsters
Public Belt Philip Melancon Smoothie King Center Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wade & Elle King Spotted Cat Panorama Jazz Band, Shake’em Up Jazz Band
The Rabbit Hole Nikki Nair & Breaka
Tipitina’s Dirty Dozen & The Dirty Dozen Brass Band
Bacchanal Wine Tangiers Combo Blue Nile The Baked Potatoes, Street Legends Brass Band
Buffa’s Bar Some Like it Hot Cafe Negril John Lisi & Delta Funk, The Love Muscles, Vegas Cola D.B.A. Palmetto Bug Stompers, Treme Brass
DMACS Monday Blues Jam
Gasa Gasa Bombargo House of Blues Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
Mahogany Jazz Hall The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Orpheum Theater Steve Lacy
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25
Bar Marilou Mikayla Braun Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Cafe Negril The Super-MostFantastic-Blues-N-Such Jam Fillmore Mother Mother, Sir Sly Gasa Gasa Neggy Gemmy x DDS x ESPRIT
Mahogany Jazz Hall Gregg Stafford Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl DJ Maynor One Eyed Jacks W.I.T.C.H with Paint Orpheum Theater Rainbow Kitten Surprise Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Smoking Time Jazz Club
The Howlin Wolf King’s X, Catch Velvet Tipitina’s Indigo Girls Toulouse Theatre Viagra Boys, Kills Birds
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet Cafe Negril The Budz, Colin Davis and Night People
Capulet Ben Gage Carousel Lounge James Martin Band D.B.A. Walter “Wolfman” Washington & The Roadmasters
DMACS Chris Zonada
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Gasa Gasa Frankie and the Witch Fingers House of Blues John Petrucci with Meanstreak One Eyed Jacks FUTUREBIRDS Orpheum Theater Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Spotted Cat Chris Christy Band, Shotgun Jazz Band
The Rusty Nail Mia Borders
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27
AllWays Lounge Eureeka’s Devil Disco
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Quartet Bullet’s Kermit Ruffins & The BBQ Swingers Cafe Istanbul Commission Fest Cafe Negril Piano Man ‘G’, Sierra Green DMACS Paggy Prine, Pizza Fam Jam Band
St. Anna’s Episcopal Church Bon Bon Vivant
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28
Bayou Bar Peter Harris Trio Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers Bullet’s Sporty’s Brass Band
Cafe Negril HIgher Heights, Paradise Jazz Band
DMACS Concrete Confetti
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Mahalia Jackson Theater Puscifer Mahogany Jazz Hall Smoking Time Jazz Club
DJs Kaskade and NGHTMRE will be turning it up in NOLA right before Halloween. They will keep the party going all night long with songs like “Superstar,” “Save Yourself,” and “Atmosphere.”
Friday, October 28, 9 p.m., $35 to $100, The Metropolitan, themetronola.com
Trio Metropolitan Trivecta
NOPSI Hotel Matt Lemmler
New Orleans Jazz Museum Anna Laura Quinn
Orpheum Theater Liquid Stranger
Public Belt Philip Melancon
Sheraton New Orleans Brujeria Carnaval
Smoothie King Center Bobby V, Bow Wow, Chingy & Crime, and more
Spotted Cat Chris Johnson Band
Sweet Lorraine’s Kim Prevost and Bill Solley
The Goat Aurelio Voltaire, AL1CE, Joan Bauhaus
The National WWII Museum Wartime Piano Happy Hour Tipitina’s Twiddle
Toulouse Theatre nothing, nowhere &
KennyHoopla
Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio
Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson
Blue Nile George Brown Band, The Soul Rebels Cafe Negril The Sierra Green Show, The Villains
Champions Square Lil Weezyana Fest
D.B.A. Treme Brass Band
DMACS L.Y.O.N.
Davenport Lounge Jeremy Davenport Fountain Lounge Leslie Martin
Gasa Gasa Automatic
Joy Theater Steve Hofstetter
Lakefront Arena B. Simone, CHICO BEAN, DC
Young Fly, DeRay Davi
Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French Trio
Metropolitan NGHTMRE
Mid-City Lanes Rock n Bowl & the Zydeco Twisters
New Orleans Jazz Museum
Oak Wine Bar Michael Mason
One Eyed Jacks The Siouxsies with Palace of Tears and D.J. Crushed Velvet
Orpheum Theater Gov’t Mule: Mule-O-Ween
Cafe Negril John Lisi & Delta Funk, Vegas Cola
D.B.A. Palmetto Bug Stompers
DMACS J.A.M. Brass Band
Gasa Gasa Automatic
House of Blues Corey Feldman, Ghostland
Toulouse Theatre The Convenience
Tropical Isle Bourbon Rhythm & Rain Trio
MONDAY, OCTOBER 31
Cafe Negril Cristina Kaminis
D.B.A. Ginny Mac, Punkadelick
Fillmore New Orleans Demi Lovato Gasa Gasa
Palm Court Jazz Cafe
Public Belt Philip Melancon
Republic NOLA Emo Night’s Five Year Anniversary, NYC Halloween Pub Crawl
Snug Harbor James Singleton, Johnny Vidacovic
Spotted Cat James Martin Band
Bacchanal Wine Noah Young Trio, Tangiers Combo
Blue Nile The Baked Potatoes
Brass Band
Buffa’s Bar Some Like it Hot Cafe Istanbul Brian Haas, The Mike Dillon Band, James Singleton
Explore the spookiest sides of the Big Easy by taking part in a French Quarter Phantoms’ walking tours. The company provides many different themed tours such as Ghost + Vampire, Cemetery, Saints + Sinners, and True Crime, as well as other tours focusing on specific NOLA neighborhoods. All of French Quarter Phantoms’ tours are less than a mile and take around an hour and 45 minutes to complete.
Until October 31 neworleansnightmare.com
Gather your nerves of steel and venture into one of the scariest haunted house attractions in America. This year, the New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House has three attractions that only the bravest of souls can tackle: Outcast Carnival, the Bloodrite, and Chop House. Guests can also test their wits at the mini-escape-games attraction or wander through the phobia maze in complete darkness.
Until October 31 nolamotor.com/zombiepaintball
Zombies are overrunning Avondale’s NOLA Motorsports Park, and it’s up to you to wipe them out. Hunters of all ages will be loaded into a battle bus and driven through
an interactive zombie apocalypse, taking paintball shots at as many zombies as they can. Hunters are given 150 rounds of ammo with an additional 100 round refill for $10. Tickets are limited, so pre-purchasing is encouraged.
Until November 5 themortuary.net
Are you brave enough to go through New Orleans’ scariest haunted house this October? Established in 1872 and celebrating its 150th anniversary, the building that houses The Mortuary has served as a funeral parlor and crematorium while being surrounded by NOLA’s “cities of the dead.” The haunted house will feature movie quality make-up, sets, and special effects to get the blood pumping.
your way to the Saenger Theatre for a night of spooks and sass at the 11th annual Night of the Living Drag show. The event will be hosted by drag queen and rapper Yvie Oddly and will feature other drag performers from RuPaul’s Drag Race like Asia O’Hara, Lady Camden, and Vanessa Vanjie Mateo. Don’t miss out on one of the “deadliest” drag spectacles in the world.
October 29 ticketmaster.com
Celebrate Halloween at the Orpheum Theater with rock band Gov’t Mule at the annual Mule-O-Ween concert. The band, which was formed as a side project of the Allman Brothers Band, has a sound that combines influences from Southern rock, blues rock, and hard rock. The concert, which is the final stop of the band’s 2022 fall tour, will start at 9 a.m. and tickets range from $35 to over $130.
October 29 endlessnight.com/ neworleans2022
Come party with all of the blood suckers in town at the Endless Night Vampire Ball at the House of Blues New Orleans. Dress up like a vampire or a witch/ wizard/sorcerer and welcome All Hallows’ Eve with a night of music provided by drag performer Vinsantos, The Sixth Chamber, DJ Aengel, and DJ Matt V Christ. The event, hosted by Father Sebastiaan, will also feature live burlesque performances.
October 29 Halloweenneworleans.com
The Queen of Hearts invites you to her mad costume and dance party at the Fillmore New Orleans. A dark twist on Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, Nightmare in Wonderland features music by DJ Alexis Tucci, a drag show by Aquaria, an open bar, a VIP lounge, a midnight show, and a costume contest. The party will commence at 10 p.m. and close at 3 a.m. And one more thing—come in costume or it’s off with your head!
Come out to one of the wildest Halloween parties in New Orleans. Back for its 13th year, Hell’s Gala will be at Mardi Gras World and is one of the best dance parties you’ll experience this Halloween. There will be a costume contest, music, performers, food trucks, and tons more. You don’t want to miss Death by Disco with Fisher, TroyBoi, Walker & Royce, and Nola. See you in the Disco Tent! Tickets range from $45 for general admission to $150 for VIP.
It’s been over 25 years since The Toadies released Rubberneck––and now they’re paying tribute to the album across the country! Joined by garage band Drakulas, The Toadies will return to New Orleans to perform at The House of Blues on Hallow’s Eve, bringing hit singles to die-hard fans such as “Possum Kingdom” and “Tyler.” They have performed at multiple locations throughout their tour, including the Ogden Theater, Ace of Spades, and The Showbox. The show starts at 8 p.m.
Tuesday, November 1 | facebook.com/events/
Interested in learning about other cultures? Come to The Country Club for a unique Día de los Muertos dining experience. Enjoy a three-course meal of Mexican cuisine and handcrafted cocktails such as creamy coconut risotto with an Alini Martini, cabrito batons with Origen Raiz del Espiritu Maguey Cenizo, and traditional desserts, including tres leches, pan de muerto, and skull cookies with La Venenosa Raicilla. Guests will be welcomed with pork belly tamales with Sotolero’s Vacation to start off the night. Tickets can be purchased at OpenTable.
Oct. 14-15, 21-22 Deutsches Haus oktoberfestnola.com
Dust off your lederhosen and practice your chicken dance moves for NOLA’s Oktoberfest at the Deutsches Haus. Take part in a celebration of all things German with traditional food such as brats and sauerkraut, multiple different German beers and schnapps, and a souvenir shop of many German goods.
Oct. 14-16 | Alario Center gmsofla.org
Lovers of all things rocks and gems need to head to Westwego for this year’s Gem and Mineral Show. Not only will the event feature dealers from all across the South exhibiting anything from gems, fossils, jewelry, and more, there will also be silversmithing demonstrations, a raffle contest, and kids activities.
Oct. 14-16 | Lafayette Square Park jazzandheritage.org
This festival celebrates the importance of blues and its impact on the entire history of music. The three-day event features a long list of blues and jazz performances, great New Orleans BBQ vendors, and a local art market, all in NOLA’s beautiful Lafayette Square Park.
Oct. 14-16 | St. John Community Center, LaPlace andouillefestival.com
Head on out to St. John the Baptist Parish for this year’s Andouille Festival. Not only can guests eat great tasting sausages, they can also enjoy a pageant, a run/ walk, a second line parade, and the musical stylings of Sean Ardoin, Amanda Shaw, and more.
Oct. 14-16 | Holy Guardian Angels Catholic Church, Bridge City bridgecitygumbofestival.org
When you’re in Louisiana, you have to eat gumbo, and the 2022 Bridge City Gumbo Festival is happy to provide just that. Held in the “gumbo capital of the world,” this festival has plenty of traditional Louisiana bites, as well as live music and carnival rides to enjoy.
Oct. 14-16 | Girard Park, Lafayette, festivalsacadiens.com
With accordions, great food, and more, this festival is a great celebration of French Louisiana and the lasting traditions of the Acadiana region. In addition to enjoying tons of Cajun and Zydeco music, attendees can also take part in the Lafayette fest’s Tour des Atakapas run or duathlon.
Oct. 14-16 | Rosalie Mansion and Gardens, Natchez natchezballoonfestival.com
Come check out this weekend filled with hot air balloons and excellent live music right in beautiful, downtown Natchez. It’s become the biggest festival in Southwest Mississippi. There will be local food vendors and lots of hot air balloon action here.
Oct. 14-16 | Bayou St. John, praisefestnola.com
Get ready to get into good spirits at the 13th annual Praise Fest, which is officially “back on the bayou.” This free festival is dedicated to bringing families, as well as communities, together for three full days of gospel music and family fun activities.
Oct. 21-23 | 326 Highway 304, Chackbay lagumbofest.com
You can never have enough great tasting gumbo. Held in Chackbay, aka the “gumbo capital of Louisiana,” the festival will provide music, food such as gumbo and burgers, amusement rides including slides and a Ferris wheel, as well as a live auction and a parade.
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Oct. 27 | Lafreniere Park, Metairie, toptaconola.com
Get ready to enjoy tasty tacos and signature cocktails from some of the greatest restaurants in the City of New Orleans. Dance to live music from acts including Otra and Margie Perez & Muevelo or experience the fest’s other entertainment such as lucha libre, mariachi, and more.
Oct. 27-30 | Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel, domcon.com/sessions/new
Make sure to bring your leather and your safe word to this year’s DomCon in New Orleans. The convention has an extensive list of activities for guests to take part in such as workshops, presentations, performances, and different socials focusing on gender expansive, people of color, and more.
Oct. 29 | Percy Brown Road, Thibodaux, acadiamusicfest.net
Celebrate the end of October at Thibodaux’s largest outdoor music festival and get turnt up to big name acts such as Ludacris, David Shaw, and Dumpstaphunk. The festival will also feature many different local artists and a variety of food vendors including Flami Nguyen and Cayenne Seafood.
SLIDELL ANTIQUES & CRAFTS STREET FAIR October 29-30 | Historic Olde Towne, Slidell, slidellstreetfair.com
Lovers of all things art, crafts, and antiques should definitely not miss this year’s Slidell Street Fair. This popular festival brings in around 10,000 attendees each year and
features over 200 different vendors from all over the South. The festival will take over First, Second, and Erlanger Streets in Olde Towne Slidell and will also feature plenty of food booths and live music to enjoy.
Nov. 4 | Abita Springs Trailhead, Abita Springs, abitafallfest.com
A tiger tailgate, a kids zone, and a harvest matchup, are just some of the many activities that can be enjoyed at the 2022 Abita Fall Fest. Make sure to not miss out on the After Dark performance on November 4 with Rebirth Brass Band and others.
Nov. 5 | Breaux Bridge // Nov. 6 | Abbeville, LATrail.org
Look no further than Bikes, Brews, and Omelettes Two to satisfy both your cycling and dining desires. With a selection of routes to choose from, you’re bound to bike anywhere between 10 to 200 miles, and what better way to wind down than with a cold brew and some delicious fare? Live music and more can be anticipated for the weekend.
BIG 15 GALA
Nov. 11 | The Saezerac House facebook.com/ TheRootsOfMusic
Celebrate 15 years of The Roots of Music organization, which strives to empower New Orleans’ youth through music education, mentorship, and academic support. In addition to food and drinks, live music will be provided by The Roots of Music Marching Crusaders, ReCreations Brass Band, and more.
Nov. 11-13 | Jean Lafitte Auditorium and Grounds, Jean Lafitte townofjeanlafitte.com/seafoodfest
Throw out your line and catch some good vibes at Jean Lafitte’s annual Seafood Festival. With swamp tours, boardwalk strolls, an art walk, delicious Louisiana food, live music from Grammy Award winning music, and even pirogue and kayak rentals, there’s plenty to see and do at the fest.
Nov. 12 | Henry Guidry Memorial Park, Henderson basinfestival.com
This free festival in Henderson, LA serves as a fundraiser for the town’s Our Lady of Mercy Church, as well as the Sacred Heart of Jesus Chapel in Butte La Rose. Consider taking part in the festival’s raffle contest or observe the “gumbo & fish courtbouillon cooking contest.”
Nov. 12-13 | Columbia Street, Covington,
Columbia Street in Covington’s historic downtown is lined to the brim with art during the Three Rivers Art Festival. Have a lovely walk through the streets and look at the work of 200 different artists from all over the United States while also enjoying many a bite from local restaurants and food vendors.
There's little in this world you cannot stuff. You can stuff your face, a teddy bear, your house (with all kinds of stuff), a mattress, your butt into a tight pair of jeans. The possibilities are endless. Of all that's available, arguably the best (and tastiest) stuff to stuff with other stuff is food.
Humans have a long history of stuffing foods with other foods. The earliest known reference can be found in a Roman cookbook, also known as the Apicius, that's is believed to have been compiled in the fifth century AD, with recipes for stuffing everything from chicken to a dormouse with veggies, herbs, spices, nuts, spelt (hulled wheat), and organ meat. Even before we were writing recipes, it's not hard to believe we've been stuffing foodstuffs since we developed opposable thumbs, as we quickly realized that a lot of foods just taste better when you combine them with other foods.
Not only is stuffing food with other foods delicious, it's also a fairly simple and economical way to cook. Everything is in one delectable package ready for copious consumption.
While New Orleans, and the late great chef Paul Prudhomme, is known for that great stuffed marvel the turducken, there's a ton of other stuffed dishes around town worthy of your consideration, palate and your ducats.
Divine inspiration came from a little place on St. Claude Avenue dubbed, most appropriately, Stuph'D Beignets & Burgers. Owned and operated by Duana Lawrence, the Bywater eatery offers lots of non-stuffed items like wings, fried seafood Fridays, burgers, and po-boys, but her signature dishes are sweet and savory beignets stuffed with, well, all kinds of stuff. If you're feeling sweet, go for a beignet stuffed with Oreos or pecan pie. And on the savory side, you can get a crisp, hot beignet filled with everything from veggies and cheese to grilled shrimp, Philly cheese steak and, the pièce de résistance, a Creole Queen filled with crab meat, crawfish, and shrimp. All of Stuph'D's beignets are bigger than you
By Kim Ranjbar
might imagine and fully, most gloriously, stuffed with goodness.
People from all over the world head over to the Creole classic Dooky Chase Restaurant in the historic Tremé neighborhood. For over 80 years, millions of people have enjoyed this New Orleans’ gem serving dishes like grillades and grits, crawfish etouffee, Southern fried chicken and Creole gumbo, but did you know they also serve a lot of stuffed stuff? Along with overstuffed potatoes and stunning stuffed crab, one of their featured favorites are the stuffed jumbo shrimp. How does one stuff shrimp, you may ask? Easy. The Gulf shrimp are butterflied, packed with crab meat dressing, battered, deep fried and served with their house tartar sauce.
A relative newcomer to the local restaurant scene, Chicken's Kitchen is a spot serving up hot plates to the masses across the river in Gretna. You can always tell when this takeout-only eatery is open because a line forms outside the door and trails all the way down the block. Self-trained home cook Marlon “Chicken” Williams opened the popular Westbank restaurant with a lot of help from his community, and everyday he returns the favor kicking out amazing plate lunches, most of which don't rise above $15. Along with his famous fried chicken and eternally sold-out braised oxtails (only served the first Tuesday of every month), the kitchen also offers stuffed stuff like seafoodstuffed catfish and a hearty half of Cornish game hen stuffed with turkey dressing. Each entree comes with one large side, such as his “five star mac” or seafood-smothered okra and rice, and two small sides, which includes
everything from buttered carrots and potato salad to sweet peas and candied yams.
Located over in Central City, Jeffery Heard, (along with his daughter Chef Tia) has definitely made a name for himself at his popular restaurant Heard Dat Kitchen. You'll discover lots of New Orleans' classics on the menu, made with their own special twist, including BBQ shrimp fries and filé gumbo served with a grilled cheese sandwich and potato salad, but we're here to get stuffed, right? In that case, we recommend “dat plate'' with a beautiful bell pepper stuffed with pork sausage, shrimp, onions, garlic, bread crumbs, and their own special blend of seasonings served with mac 'n' cheese, sweet peas and potato salad for only $13. We heard dat.
Finally, because no great meal is truly finished without a little something sweet, take a brunch trip to the French Quarter and visit the aptly named French Toast restaurant on Decatur Street. Long have praises been sung to Cara and Evan Benson for their bread-laden, breakfast blowouts, from aebleskivers and eggs baked in brioche to marvelous Monte Cristo sandwiches and banana nutella crepes, but they've gone even further. Naturally, they serve French toast dotted with fresh berries and dusted in powdered sugar, but they also feature French toast stuffed with coconut cream and topped with bruleed pineapple, candied macadamia nuts, and a dollop of tangy lemon curd. It's served with maple syrup, but honestly, do you really need it?
Food lovers, get out there and get stuffed.
Boulevard American Bistro has multiple locations with delicious starters, salads, sandwiches, and entrees that will appeal to every appetite. Try their pan-seared crab cakes, made with jumbo lump crab meat and served with fries and coleslaw. Multiple Locations, (504) 889-2301, boulevardbistro. com
Crescent City Steakhouse takes steak to a new level with the tastiest sizzling steaks that don’t disappoint. This old-fashioned steakhouse has served the same recipe for four generations. They also have options such as lobster tails, gratin, and Krasna’s creole cream cheesecake. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Duke’s is the best stop for real southern cooking, all for a good price. They serve breakfast all day and lunch and dinner options such as po-boys, gumbo, and red beans and rice. Order yourself a Cajun Bloody Mary and their delight breakfast sandwich. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant, Bar, and Catering serves New Orleans’ favorites in Gretna’s historic district. There is a happy hour daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with half-price drink and appetizer specials. Gattuso’s most famous dish is the tasty firecracker shrimp salad. 435 Huey P Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net
Houmas House hosts five restaurants: Latil’s Landing Restaurant, Café Burnside, the Carriage House Restaurant, the Wine “Cellars” of Houmas House, and Sunday Brunch. Each restaurant offers fresh farm-to-table Louisiana cuisine. 40136 LA942, Darrow, (225) 473-9380, houmashouse. com
JB’s Fuel Dock serves up mouth-watering pizzas, rotating specials, and is located on the waterfront. JB’s Fuel Dock’s open kitchen and bar layout is the perfect opportunity for intimate staff and customer interactions. Take in the pleasant waterfront scene and their tasty supreme pizza. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com
Jimmy J’s is “N’awlins’ funkiest lil’ café” and boasts unique breakfasts and tasty desserts. Be sure to order their Black Angus burger or oyster poboy if you’re not in the mood for breakfast. There’s something for every appetite here. 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop offers delicious sandwiches, southern comfort food, salads, and prime steaks and chops, with a strong emphasis on cocktail and wine service. Be sure to try Legacy Kitchen’s 22-ounce cowboy bone-in ribeye, which comes with a loaded baked potato. 91 Westbank Expressway #5, Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com
Luke is in New Orleans’ Central Business District and is a Creole-influenced brasserie. A vibrant ambiance includes a raw bar providing fresh seafood and oysters. Be sure to try their truffle glazed roast chicken while you’re there. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840 lukeneworleans. com
Lakeview Harbor has been serving burgers, poboys, and typhoon cocktails for the past 30 years. They also host lively events on holidays and their juicy cheeseburger is the perfect thing to enjoy while you’re there. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
New Orleans Vampire Café offers lavish cuisine right in the heart of the French Quarter. This café is eager for all to have a bite at their restaurant and feast on their exquisite dishes, including their grilled portobello. 801 Royal St., (504) 5810801, nolavampirecafe.com
Nola Steak, located in Boomtown Casino, is the perfect place to take a break from the blackjack tables. Open Thursday through Saturday for dinner and Sunday for brunch, this place is a winner. 4132 Peters Road, (504) 366-7711, boomtownneworleans.com
Spudly’s provides “a meal in a baked potato.” They deliver potatoes, burgers, salads, and po-boys in a modest, no-fuss setting. Treat yourself to the “shrimply put potato,” which comes with shrimp, cheese sauce, cheese, and chives. 2609 Harvard
Ave., (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com
The Ruby Slipper has over ten locations across the Gulf South and provides a cozy environment and an expansive cocktail menu for all-day brunch. The Ruby Slipper uses local, fresh ingredients. Try the Ruby Benny when you go—you won’t be sorry. Multiple Locations, therubyslippercafe.net
Buffa’s is unofficially known as “the best place you’ve never been.” Since 1939, Buffa’s has delivered classic American and Cajun cuisine, cocktails, and live music. Stop by for a Reuben with corned beef and sauerkraut. 1001 Esplanade Ave., (504) 949-0038, buffasbar.com
The Jimani offers upwards of 100 beers, trivia, a jukebox, pub cuisine, and several TVs. Start off with fried pickle spears or broccoli bites, and continue with a classic entree like Nikki’s ooey gooey grilled cheese or Mama’s chicken club. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com
Ugly Dog Saloon offers the Warehouse District’s best barbeque, with barbeque platters you just can’t beat. Here’s the spot to satisfy your cravings while watching a game. Try the Lafitte pig, which includes pulled pork and Canadian bacon. 401 Andrew Higgins Blvd., (504) 569-8459, theuglydogsaloon.com boomtownneworleans.com
Cho Thai will make you feel like you’re walking through the streets of Thailand. Chef Jimmy Cho’s menu consists of dishes like ka pao chicken, shrimp pad Thai, seafood green curry, shrimp dumplings, and mango and sticky rice. 3218 Magazine St., (504) 381- 4264, chothairestaurant.com
Mikimoto has been known as the premier destination for authentic Japanese fare in New Orleans for the past 20 years. Some unique rolls on their menu include the “Geaux Saints maki roll” and the “Sex in the City roll.” 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com
Thai’d Up offers modern Thai street food right in the Fairgrounds area. This new restaurant offers dishes including homemade beef jerky, roti in curry dipping sauce, and butter-Thai shrimp, to name a few. 1839 Gentilly Blvd, (504) 354-8202, thaidupla.com
Alto Rooftop Bar is the best hangout for swimming, drinking, and eating, even if you aren’t staying at the Ace Hotel. Be sure to come during happy hour for specialty drinks and try pizza, chicken wings, or their tasty lettuce wrap. 600 Carondelet St., (504) 900-1180, acehotel.com
Down the Hatch Bar and Grill offers pub fare in a casual, lively bar setting situated in the Garden District. They have an outdoor bar and patio seating. Be sure to try the alligator po-boy, fried catfish platter, or the Texan burger with caramelized onions. 1921 Sophie Wright Pl., (504) 5220909, downthehatchnola.com
JINX Bar & Grill offers good food and entertainment right in the heart of the Quarter. Come for brunch, happy hour, or a comedy show. They have shareable plates like JINX wings or pig pen poppers along with
Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar is a hub of good eats and great times on Magazine Street. With multiple TVs and plenty of cold beer on tap, Tracey’s is one of the city’s best sports bars. Settle in with an oyster po-boy to catch the game or meet up with friends. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 8975413, traceysnola.com
Cafe Amelie boasts a romantic courtyard in addition to a delicious menu with dishes ranging from cochon poutine to black truffle pasta primavera. They continue to deliver premier service and are known for their braised beef short ribs, served over sour cream mash. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com
Carmo offers you the chance to taste the tropical flavors of Southeast Asia, West Africa, South America, the Caribbean, and the Gulf Coast. They have a selection of fresh, wholesome meals that’ll satisfy vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike. 527 Julia St., (504) 875-4132, cafecarmo.com
Le Chat Noir is an upscale restaurant serving delicious small plates such as anchovies and focaccia and stuffed quail, alongside large plates featuring pork chop and little neck clams. They boast an impressive drink menu and some of the best raw oysters in town. 715 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-0045, lechatnoirnola.com
The Vintage on Magazine Street is perfect for any occasion: coffee, brunch, happy hour, or wine night. There’s no better place to pass the hours, catch up with a friend, or simply take in all this restaurant has to offer. Be sure to try their fancy beignet flight while you’re there. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 324-7144, thevintagenola.com
Willa Jean is New Orleans’ quintessential Southern café. Located in the Central Business District, this chic spot is an enclave of cool coziness. Favorites are the griddled banana bread and the fried chicken sandwich with spicy pickles on a Hawaiian roll. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
Bar Marilou is nestled in a cute library near the Maison de la Luz. Their drink menu includes wine, beer, and spirits, but they also have signature cocktails and you can’t leave without trying their moules and frites 544 Carondelet St., (504) 814-7711, barmarilou.com
Le Bon Temps Roule is a neighborhood bar, located Uptown, with local live music and late-night food. This bar is open 24/7 and has fantastic Bloody Marys and a pimento bacon burger that can’t be beat. 4801 Magazine St., (504)-897-3448, lbtrnola.com
Peacock Room, an upscale cocktail bar with live music, serves luxury spirits with an eccentric interior design and shareable plates. Be sure to try a craft cocktail and their peacock burger made with fried shallots, American cheese, and served with truffle fries. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 3243073, peacockroomnola.com
Rivershack Tavern is a live music club, a sports bar, and a neighborhood tavern combined into one charming venue. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this restaurant serves up great dishes each day to their loyal customers. 3449 River Rd., (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
Stumpy’s Hatchet House offers a space to blow off steam and bond with coworkers. They provide a controlled, safe environment for guests to throw hatchets at targets while snacking on hot dogs, popcorn, or nachos. 1200 Poydras St., (504) 577-2937, stumpyshh.com/neworleansla
The Garage is a great spot to enjoy live music, hot DJ’s, and great food. It is a spacious place that regularly features open mic time, local bands, and has lots of room to dance. The food will satisfy any appetite—be sure to try their Cajun gumbo. 810
Café Normandie offers cuisine inspired from French recipes and is located in the Higgins Hotel. Their menu has options such as eggs benedict, breaded Kurobuta pork chops, and signature flat breads. The café is not too far from the museum, so stop by after lunch. 1000 Magazine St., (504) 528-1941, higginshotelnola.com
ITALIAN
Domenica, located in the Roosevelt New Orleans, offers a cozy atmosphere and an extensive wine list. All pizzas and pastas are unique and delicious. Enjoy some of the restaurant’s mouth-watering antipasti including grilled octopus or roasted cauliflower. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com
Josephine Estelle’s Southern-inspired Italian food is as delicious as the space itself is beautiful. Some stand-out dishes include ricotta mousse with foie gras tortellini, maque choux, and speck-corn brodo. 600 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3070, josephineestelle.com
Mosca’s has served delicious Louisiana Creole Italian fare for 60 years. Enjoy Italian classics such as spaghetti and meatballs, or sample one of their specialties such as the shrimp Mosca, featuring shrimp in-shell seared with white wine and Italian seasonings. 4137 US-90 West, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Nephew’s Ristorante is a testament to Frank Catalanotto’s family and their fantastic cuisine and excellent customer service. Some notable dishes on the menu include the fresh mussels, clams, Louisiana gulf shrimp, with white wine, garlic, fresh basil, and fresh tomatoes. 4445 W. Metairie Ave., Metairie, (504) 533-9998, nephewsristorante.com
Pascal’s Manale is known for many dishes, its stand-up raw oyster bar, and traditional Italian cuisine. However, they are most famous for the perfection of their BBQ shrimp that brings visitors from all around the world. 1838 Napoleon Ave., (504) 895-4877, pascalsmanale.com
Pizza Domenica offers friendly service, relaxation, and upscale pizza, antipasti, and craft entrees anytime you dine with them. They have innovative flavors and offer an inventive spin on American pizza. Their Calabrese pizza is one of their best. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
Tavolino offers some of the West Bank’s best casual Italian dining in addition to an adults-only lounge in the back of the restaurant. Be sure to try the Behrman Highway pizza, with Vietnamese caramel, jalapenos, fresh herbs, nuoc cham, and citrus braised pork belly. 141 Delaronde St., (504) 605-3365, tavolinonola.com
Venezia has been serving New Orleans some of the best classic Italian in town since 1957. While pizza is the house specialty—as advertised by the iconic sign hanging above the door, our personal favorite is the restaurant’s to-die-for veal Pontchartrain. 134 N. Carrollton Ave, (504) 488-7991, venezianeworleans.net
Empanola serves delicious Louisiana-inspired, Latin-influenced empanadas to New Orleans residents. They also cater to local parties, formal events, weddings, and brunches. Their empanadas are not to be missed. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria offers casual, authentic Mexican food at three different locations in New Orleans. For fast, delicious tacos, a dynamic atmosphere, or keylime margaritas, Felipe’s is the perfect spot. Be sure to try their carnitas tacos. Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com
Juan’s Flying Burrito is the funkiest taqueria this side of the Mississippi River. Favorites include the “flying burrito,” the “gutter punk,” and the “jerk chicken.” Be sure to try the banh mi tacos with pickled carrots and daikon. Multiple Locations, juansflyingburrito.com
Mr. Tequila puts a Tex-Mex twist on authentic Mexican fare. A popular option is the 88-ounce margarita which guests (hopefully) share among themselves. Try the black and gold burrito while you’re there. 5018 Freret St., (504) 766-9660, mrtequilanola.com
Gita Pita offers fast-paced, fan-favorite food. With all the best in terms of shawarma, falafel, and pita, this new spot is sure to have you coming back again. You can order online, pick-up, or take-out and enjoy your Gita Pita from anywhere in the city. 2530 Canal St, (504) 766-6519, facebook. com/GitaPitaCanal
Lebanon’s Café offers sumptuous dishes ranging from rich, homemade hummus to kabobs, to chicken shawarma. Feel free to bring your own beer or wine and enjoy no corkage fee. Lebanon’s is best known for its rosemary lamb chops, served atop grilled vegetables. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Shaya features a mélange of Israeli classics with Southern flavors and contemporary culinary techniques while also incorporating locally-sourced ingredients. Shaya’s dishes include flavors from North Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Greece, and Turkey. 4123 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
Annunciation serves up a menu of classic and contemporary Creole and Cajun dishes and is located in a rehabilitated turn-of-the-century warehouse. Executive Chef Milton Prudence serves dishes like grilled lamb chops with garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, and lamb sauce. 1016 Annunciation St., (504) 568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com
Apolline is located in a beautifully renovated double shotgun cottage on Magazine Street. They offer an impressive menu with dishes ranging from roasted gulf fish couvillion to paneed veal medallions in addition to an expansive menu of wine and cocktails. 4729 Magazine St., (504) 894-8881, apollinerestaurant.com
Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop’s award-winning gumbo with crawfish, shrimp, crabmeat, and okra is a Louisiana gumbo not to be missed. They’ve also got Creole-Cajun classics including jambalaya, red beans and rice, and crawfish étouffée. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com
Common Interest, located in the Hotel Indigo, has delicious dishes that reflect New Orleans’ rich culture. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, they offer Nola favorites such as shrimp and grits, gumbo, jambalaya, as well as classics like steak n’ frites. 705 Common St., (504) 595-5605, commoninterestnola.com
Crescent City Brewhouse is the French Quarter’s sole microbrewery and a spot where you can listen to live jazz performances by local musicians while enjoying “brewtails,” a cocktail that puts
a twist on brewed beer, or their rich shrimp and grits. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Desire Oyster Bar, in the Royal Sonesta New Orleans hotel, offers some of the best seafood in the city. Their oysters are top notch and can be ordered on the half shell, chargrilled, and even as a chargrilled Rockefeller. Try their Louisiana crab cakes or Cajun fried alligator. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com
Evangeline provides seasonal, fresh cuisine sourced from local fishermen and serves a wide selection of microbrews. They are most known for their crawfish and grits dish, featuring garlicsauteed crawfish served over a bowl of Creole grits. 329 Decatur St., (504) 373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com
House of Blues is a blues and rock-themed restaurant featuring southern fare such as jambalaya and po-boys and live music events. Check out their legendary Sunday Gospel Brunch or make a dinner reservation before the big show and receive special entry. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com
Kingfish is a French Quarter restaurant specializing in contemporary southern fare. Enjoy dishes like their Louisiana crab cake, fried green tomatoes and shrimp remoulade, or New Orleans barbecue scallop fettuccine. 337 Chartres St., (504) 598-5005, kingfishneworleans.com
Mandina’s, also known as “the pink house” by the
New Orleans Creole Cookery combines a traditional-style menu with a newgeneration aesthetic and energy. Be sure ty try their pecan crusted redfish, fried and topped with a Creole green beans and heirloom potatoes. 508 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow’s Creole Café impresses its customers with their friendly servers and perfect southern-style dishes. While being an informal establishment, the flavors are extraordinary, especially their chargrilled oysters, filled with butter, cheese, and savory oysters. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5472, neyows.com
neighborhood, offers a blend of Cajun-Creole and Italian seafood, pastas, and steaks. Arrive early to avoid the wait, and be sure to sample the gulf fish almandine. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com
Melba’s Old School Po-boys offers a comfortable, friendly atmosphere and is also home to Wash World next door. Melba’s serves up po-boys and chicken wings in addition to daiquiris, which can be purchased 24/7. 1525 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 267-7765, melbas.com
Mother’s Restaurant features classic New Orleans dishes including “the world’s best ham” and fantastic homemade pies. Mother’s is known for their po-boys, hot plates, and fried seafood dishes. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
Neyow’s XL serves you a memorable experience and authentic New Orleans cuisine, including fresh seafood and wellseasoned steaks. Do yourself a favor and order the red snapper while you’re there. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
Nice Guys Bar and Grill is a casual restaurant that serves delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine with their own nice twist. Join them for brunch, lunch, or dinner and be sure to try their Lambo stuffed potato, featuring grilled lamb chops and barbeque shrimp. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2402, niceguysnola.com
Nonno’s has authentic New Orleans dishes and is now in a new location, where their colorful exterior and cozy interior are reflected in the dishes that are served. Try their daily specials as well as their savory seafood egg rolls. 1940 Dauphine St., (504) 354-1364, nonnoscajuncuisineandpastries.com
Nola’s Wings and Things provides comfort and community and when it comes to wings, they offer over ten different preparations and flavors, along with traditional dishes such as jumbo shrimp or
homemade. 7906 Earhart Blvd., (504) 4358117, facebook.com/nolaswingsandthings
Orleans Grapevine is known for its romantic courtyard dining. Try wines by the glass from their extensive collection and small plates to go along with your wine. Be sure to get their signature Cajun surf and turf for the best of both worlds. 720 Orleans St., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parkway Bakery & Tavern has been an iconic spot since 1911 and is best-known for their poboys. Don’t miss their homemade roast beef and gravy or their delicious surf and turf po-boy and some gravy fries. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 4823047, parkwaypoorboys.com
Please U Restaurant is a down-to-earth eatery, serving all-day breakfast and other tasty dishes. Be sure to try their famous red beans and rice, made with creamy red beans and sausage.1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola. com
Short Stop Po Boy is a well-loved restaurant with scrumptious po-boys and sides such as chicken fries, stuffed artichokes, and their signature gumbo. Try a cup of their chicken andouille or seafood gumbo and a roast beef po-boy. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 8854572, shortstoppoboysno.com
Trenasse, in the Intercontinental Hotel, has an extensive food menu including brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner. We recommend the smokey braised short ribs, or the oysters—an alwaysperfect choice. 444 St. Charles Ave., (504) 6807000, trenasse.com
Willie Mae’s Scotch House embodies New Orleans cuisine. This fan-favorite spot has been serving up the city’s best since 1957. Don’t miss out on the fried chicken, butter beans, and macaroni and cheese. Multiple Locations, williemaesnola.com
Blue Crab is a locally operated and owned eatery serving up fresh, delicious seafood to its guests. Guests can enjoy a cold beer, hot boiled crawfish, or crab with a view of the Pontchartrain to top off their experience. Multiple Locations, thebluecrabnola.com
Briquette’s contemporary dining room offers customers the chance to watch as seafood is grilled on red-hot briquettes and tossed in seasoning and flavor. First-timers should try the Snapper Pontchartrain with scallops and a glass of bubbly. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquettenola.com
Felix’s is a locally-owned restaurant and oyster bar with oysters sourced from the best Louisiana oyster beds. They are best known for their fresh, top-tier charbroiled oysters. Multiple Locations, felixs.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox provides upscale casual Southern fare in the Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel. Guests can start off their meal with alligator poppers or loaded pimento cheese, and finish with their famous chargrilled oysters. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
Seaworthy is where guests can enjoy locallysourced seafood as well as sustainably-gathered oysters. Be sure to try one of Seaworthy’s signature dishes: mussels soaked in white wine and garnished with cilantro. 630 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3071, seaworthynola.com
Tito’s Ceviche and Pisco is a Magazine Street staple bringing Peruvian flavor and happy hour deals every weekday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Our recommendation? The tasty stuffed avocado with seafood salad with a pisco sour cocktail. Multiple Locations, (504) 267-7612, titoscevichepisco. com
Sure, you can celebrate this Veterans Day by watching such classics as Pride of the Marines, The Best Years of Our Lives, Coming Home, or Born on the 4th of July, and it’s highly recommended that you do; however, chances are that horror fans may still be reeling from Halloween, and we’ll need to ease ourselves into the next big holiday.
We can certainly bridge that gap by checking out these terrifying and downright awesome flicks that will showcase another side of our precious veterans. These selections may not offer the most flattering depictions of what it means to be a soldier—each one can be used to gain insight into the struggles that many of our veterans face on a daily basis.
By Jeff BoudreauxTim Robbins PTSD is in overdrive in Jacob's Ladder …or is it?
It’s hard to go through Halloween without encountering a movie featuring Boris Karloff—he is arguably the greatest horror actor who ever lived. But you probably never expected to see him on a list celebrating our veterans. That’s because Targets, marking the directorial debut of Peter Bogdanovich, is one of the most unusual horror pictures you will ever see. Mr. Karloff plays a loose version of himself—a legendary horror icon who’s in the middle of a promotional “farewell” tour, so to speak. But his character is only half the story; the other half concerns a severely troubled Vietnam vet (Tim O’Kelley) who kills his wife and mother, before embarking on a killing spree (if the character sounds familiar, it was inspired by the real-life case of Charles Whitman). The two men eventually meet at a crowded drive-in theater, where the horror of films and real-life become blurred. The film is available to watch on most streaming services for only $2.99.
If the previous film doesn’t whet your appetite for homicidal maniacs who served our great country, then feast your eyes upon Deathdream, from Bob Clark, a pedigreed horror director who also helmed the original Black Christmas and Children Shouldn’t Play with Dead Things. Once again, those unforgiving jungles of Vietnam have produced a mad killer, this time named Andy (Richard Backus). The only difference is, Andy died during the war
Halloween and Veteran’s Day fall close together, and it’s not as if we get the chance to celebrate them simultaneously, but here we are.
and his parents have the telegram to prove it. Yes, this isn’t Memorial Day we are celebrating, but that’s okay because Andy sure looks alive and returns home to live with his mom and dad. Everything is dandy until he starts killing people around the neighborhood—his thirst for blood even zeroing in on the family dog. And because it’s the seventies, this film also contains a deadly scene at a drive-in. Released in the heyday of theater gimmicks, no one was allowed into the screening after five minutes. Good luck with such a thing nowadays. Based on “The Monkey’s Paw” by W.W. Jacobs, and featuring makeup effects by the great Tom Savini, Deathdream is free to watch on Tubi
If you like your horror more on the psychological
side, then look no further than Jacob’s Ladder—the story of a Vietnam (of course) veteran’s descent into madness. From the horrors of his neverending flashbacks of war to the daily hell of PTSD-induced hallucinations, Jacob (Tim Robbins) is unable to separate the disturbing images in his mind from what appears to be the real world. And, yes, this movie earns points for waging Jacob’s battle with his own demons and not a bunch of innocent folks around him.
Based on a dream (or a nightmare) from screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin (Ghost), the title is taken from the Old Testament “ladder” to Heaven, but this one we can safely say leads into the opposite direction. Directed by Adrian Lyne (Flashdance, Fatal Attraction), the first cut of this film was deemed too disturbing, even for restricted audiences. Watch for free with an Epix trial on Prime Video and be sure to avoid the terrible 2019 remake.
For the first time on this list, we actually have a movie that celebrates our military for the rightful badasses that they are with no plaguing after-effects for the soldiers in sight. Well, except for the fact that some of them are killed and brought back to life with a zombie serum
SINCE 1859, our family estate has raised sugarcane on the banks of an ancient Mis sis sippi River oxbow in Pointe Coupée, Louisiana. This sharp bend in the river has made for fertile land, sweet sugarcane and enchanting rum. Generations have farmed this land. This estate rum is a tribute to them.
Made from 100% Grade A sugarcane molas ses, these fine sipping rums embody the es sence of Louisiana’s sugarcane harvest. Unfiltered and distilled in small batches, Oxbow Rum has no sweeteners or additives. Experience the bright, smooth taste of sugarcane in every sip.
developed by those wicked Nazis. But before we get ahead of ourselves, picture this: It’s the eve of D-Day, and a group of U.S. paratroopers are sent to destroy a German radio tower. After his troop suffers heavy casualties, PFC Boyce (Jovan Adepo) manages to discover more than he bargained for inside this tower, namely some super-horrific, human experiments.
Yes, it is true that Nazi experiment movies are nothing new; in fact, they basically comprised a whole subgenre of films back in the seventies. However, none of those films can match the high-octane, zombiekilling mayhem of Overlord or even boast a black protagonist. The film also features Stranger Things sensation Joseph Quinn (Eddie Munson) in a small role, as well as its main Nazi villain being played by none other than Pilou Asbæk (Euron Greyjoy of Game of Thrones). Now that’s a winwin. Available to stream on Paramount Plus, or $2.99 to rent on Prime Video
theseinupgrew“I sugarcane fields.
Our rum tastes like home.”
…but Nazi's are up to no good.Deathdream says it all. Targets with Boris Karloff
By David Vicari
Bros is a romantic comedy with the twist being that the main characters are gay. Okay, but is it any good? I mean, there are plenty of forgettable rom-coms out there, and I've suffered through many. Happily, though, Bros is an above average romantic comedy that is smart, often laugh out loud funny, and actually has something to say.
Neurotic podcaster Bobby Leiber (Billy Eichner) claims to be perfectly happy living the single life, and hooking up with random men on Tinder. That is until he meets lawyer Aaron Shepard (Luke MacFarlane). The problem is that these two men like each other, but neither one wants to be in a committed relationship. A significant subplot involves Bobby being a curator of a proposed LGBTQ+ National History Museum.
The film's star, Eichner, who is a gay man, co-wrote the screenplay with director Nicholas Stoller (Forgetting Sarah Marshall, The FiveYear Engagement), and it feels frank and honest. One good scene is when Eichner's character talks about past jobs and getting passed up for promotion because he is gay, and the straight people who did get the jobs were less talented. It may have happened to Eichner in real life.
Aside from these sobering moments, Bros
is really funny. One hilarious scene involves actress Debra Messing, playing a fictional version of herself, as a potential donor to the museum. Then there is the threesome scene that becomes a foursome when a guy comes out of nowhere and invites himself in.
Bros also satirizes gay themed films starring straight actors in gay roles, and also how these same films try to tone it down for straight mainstream audiences. Bobby even recounts a story of how movie producers approached him about writing a movie and said to him, “We want you to write a rom-com about a gay couple. Something a straight guy might even like and watch with his girlfriend.” Sure, Bros, itself, wants mainstream success and the two leads are very likable for mainstream audiences, so maybe the movie is contradicting itself somewhat, but the jokes are funny, and it has a lot of heart.
Smile is not to be confused with the 1975 Michael Ritchie directed charmer of the same name that satirizes beauty pageants. No, this new Smile is a grim horror movie that is well made, but not a very thrilling or fun scarefest.
Psychiatric ward therapist Rose Cotter (Sosie Bacon) is called in to meet with a very frightened young woman (Caitlin Stasey) who claims that she is being terrorized by an evil entity that pretends to be other people. A week prior, the woman witnessed her college professor bludgeon himself to death with a hammer. Rose tries to explain to the woman that the traumatic situation is causing hallucinations. In response, the woman freaks out, flashes a creepy smile, and then slits her own throat in front of a horrified Rose. Soon afterward, Rose, herself, starts having hallucinations of people smiling at her and other weird images. Rose's past trauma of her abusive mother, who died of a drug overdose, also begins to boil to the surface. She feels she is unraveling, and it is putting stress on her relationships with both her fiance, Trevor (Jessie T. Usher), and her sister, Holly (Gillian Zinser), so she seeks help from her ex, Joel (Kyle Gallner), who is a police officer.
Basically, this is like Night of the Demon (1957), It Follows (2014), or, take your pick,
The Ring (2002) or Ringu (1998) where a person has so many days to pass a diabolical curse on to someone else before he or she is consumed by evil. Clearly, it's a concept that has worked many times before, and while Smile has some effectively creepy moments, it really isn't that scary. The many jump scares are telegraphed so far in advance that they fail to work.
The best part of Smile is the central performance by Bacon, the daughter of actors Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon. Sosie Bacon is excellent here, really making us understand and feel for the character and the terrible burdens placed on her. In fact, the amount of despair that the character endures feels so cruel that the movie isn't really that much fun to watch.
Smile is the debut feature from writer and director Parker Finn, and is based on his 2020 short film Laura Hasn't Slept. The guy has talent. In Smile he shows off interesting visuals, and draws excellent performances from his actors. His screenplay is mainly what trips him up. It is most routinely plotted and so predictable that I knew how the movie was going to end long before the halfway mark. And speaking of the ending, it is pretty lousy. Groans could be heard from the audience when the end credits began to roll, as there was an air of disappointment at the end of Smile
Alto (Ace Hotel)
600 Carondelet St. 504-900-1180
Babylon Bar
2917 Harvard Ave., 504-324-9961
Bar Marilou
544 Carondelet St. 504-814-7711
Down the Hatch
1921 Sophie Wright Pl. 504-522-0909
329 Decatur St.
504-373-4852
Fillmore New Orleans
6 Canal St. 504-881-1555
Gasa Gasa
4920 Freret St. 504-571-5522
House of Blues
225 Decatur St. 504-310-4999
Jimani
141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493
Jinx Bar and Grill
91 French Market Pl., 504-510-2797
Kilroy’s at the Higgins
480 Andrew Higgins Blvd., 504-528-1941
Lots A Luck Tavern 203 Homedale St. 504-483-0978
Marsh Room 740 Rye St. 504-571-5733
Martine’s Lounge
2347 Metairie Rd. 504-831-8637
The Metropolitan
310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. 504-568-1702,
Pal’s Lounge 949 N. Rendon St. 504-488-7257
Peacock Room
501 Tchoupitoulas St. 504-324-3073
The Rabbit Hole 1228 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. 504-354-9709
Royal Frenchmen Hotel
700 Frenchmen St., #1614 504-619-9660
Stumpy’s Hatchet House
1200 Poydras St., Suite C 504-577-2937
Tracey’s Irish Channel Bar
2604 Magazine St.
504-897-5413
Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927
Ugly Dog Saloon
401 Andrew Higgins Blvd
504-569-8549
Wrong Iron 3532 Toulouse St., 504-302-1503
Alto offers truly great views of New Orleans. After you’re done chilling in the rooftop pool, order yourself some thirstquenching cocktails like the Paloma or the Great Ulysses.
This local favorite has it all: sports, darts, drinks, music, and more. Check out their Facebook (facebook.com/ BabylonSportsBar) for info on upcoming events and killer karaoke nights.
Not only is Bar Marilou very trendy, the food and drinks on offer are fantastic. There are all kinds of drinks to choose from, such as the Jardin De Mémé and the Heloïse
This bar and grill is a special spot in the Garden District for delicious and reasonably priced food and drinks. The Hell’s Kitchen Wings are delicious, as well as the many different starters, sandwiches, and burgers.
Evangeline’s courtyard is perfect for sipping on some of the locally craft beers they offer. The Rum Punch and Strawberry Blonde cocktails are also fruity and delicious. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. daily.
The Fillmore prides itself in providing legendary experiences to its patrons. Not only is it the perfect setting for live entertainment, the creative food, signature cocktails, and craft beer are all great.
Gasa Gasa provides an ambient space for music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike with live performances every day of the week and irresistible drink specials. A variety of food trucks and trivia games can also be expected at this cozy little hangout.
Not only is the live entertainment at House of Blues great, the Southern-inspired food and refreshing drinks are fantastic as well! You can enjoy plenty of different beer and cocktails.
If you want to see all of the hottest sports action, then you need to go to the Jimani. A New Orleans favorite for over 40 years, the bar has over 100 beers that you can choose from!
Across the street from the historic New Orleans Jazz Museum, Jinx Bar & Grill is an ode to pop culture. It boasts handcrafted cocktails, rotating craft beers, and delicious food. Jinx’s casual atmosphere will get the party started.
Come enjoy their playful cocktails in a snazzy setting. Their menu includes Cajun classics and modern creations.
Lots A Luck Tavern was recently voted as the #1 spot for bar games in New Orleans by Where Y’at Magazine ’s readers. Try your hand at mini golf or cornhole or sip a refreshing drink at their outdoor seating area.
The Marsh Room is a Metairie classic, offering an outdoor patio, live music selections, and great drinks at even better prices.
Martine’s provides a very friendly and comfortable atmosphere in Old Metairie. Not only is there darts and video poker, they serve up great wines, tasty cocktails, and a large selection of beer.
Located in Generations Hall, the Metropolitan is a great venue option for anyone looking to party the night away. The space offers two-stories filled with dance floors, spaces for DJs, and multiple bars.
Pal’s Lounge is the perfect place to be if you feel like having a drink at “witching hour.” Stay awake with their house cocktails, beers, and many other different kinds of brews.
Offering an elevated cocktail bar experience, The Peacock Room’s large drink menu has anything you could want. Perhaps you’d like one of the “Old Birds” like a Sazerac or the Washouko Mary.
This eclectic venue has all of the amenities needed for a perfect night out. Listen to brass bands and electronic DJs at The Rabbit Hole's downstairs bar and stage or get some fresh air at their outdoor stage area.
This award-winning bar in the Royal Frenchmen Hotel has a stylish ambiance, live entertainment, and a beautiful courtyard. The delicious specialty cocktails are truly amazing.
Stumpy’s is the best place in NOLA to try your hand at throwing a hatchet. After you work up a sweat, you can grab some food and drinks while there. Have a day out with your friends!
Tracey’s is a fantastic place to hang out at and not just for St. Patrick’s Day! Their extensive beer catalog includes hundreds of different bottles and six draught taps.
Tropical Isle helps make Bourbon Street internationally famous. Everyone knows that if you go to Tropical Isle, you gotta get a Hand Grenade, aka New Orleans’ "most powerful drink."
Ugly Dog Saloon is a great place to enjoy a beer and one of the city’s best pulled pork sandwiches. With a full bar and game day platters, it’s the perfect spot to meet up with friends. This place is more than a barbeque joint for sure.
Located in Mid-City, this indoor/outdoor oasis is a hub of game day fun, great drinks, and good times. Plus, it’s pet friendly for a night out with the pup!
Before Halloween was marketed, beaten, and transformed into a holiday “season” and taken over by adults as a “party” it was fodder for kickass nightmares, tall tales, and paper bags filled with sweets.
Halloween was that one night of the year when the line between “this” world and the “other” was blurred. You felt you could slip between life and death and it was the fear of the Boogie Man, the Grim Reaper, ghosts, and goblins that made this one evening unique for us kids. We knew nothing of its history, we just knew that on October 31 as the sun went down, our adrenaline went up. When I was a kid, we never trick or treated during the daytime, and we certainly never attempted to change the date of this respected, revered, and feared holiday.
Of course, that plunge into fear was sweetened with more candy than the Easter Bunny could bestow. Belly aches and dental degradation always loomed large but was worth it. And the treats garnered on Halloween night always carried clout and could be traded at school the next day like baseball cards. I was that kid who put more stock in the treats than in tricks. The only memorable tricks I recall were rolling yards with toilet paper. And frankly, I can say for sure that I never participated in these shenanigans because that would have detracted from energy spent filling my bag to the brim with candy. But all us kids sure got a kick, if only vicariously, out of seeing the aftermath of what looked like a Roto-Rooter explosion. And, guilty or not, our parents gave us the stink eye for days after.
Costumes were first and foremost for most kids. I have already admitted my devotion to sugary confections, but costuming was right up there as a priority. I still remember which aisle of the TG & Y five and dime store that hosted readymade costumes. My favorite was the skeleton with its one-piece black jumpsuit with the embossed shiny glittery bones and, of course, a plastic skull mask. There must have been troops of us dressedalike skeletons prancing through my neighborhood. Again, all that free candy holds court over my memories. Sure dressing up was fun and a very important part of this celebration of the macabre. But tell me the truth. Snagging a full size Hershey bar—wasn’t that the bottom line?
Momma had many stipulations about what kind of treats I could consume. She was a bit of a germaphobe; therefore, treats had to be in original wrappers—not homemade cookies, Rice Krispy bars, or candied apples. Apples (or any fresh fruit) were a perceived threat because, as we all knew, razor blades might be inserted and waiting to cut off my Chatty-Cathy tongue. Yet there was a disconnect to this safety precaution regarding fruit when
encouraged to snack from the fruit bowl the rest of the time.
“No, you cannot have that candy or cookie. If you want something sweet grab a piece of fresh fruit.”
“But what about the razor inside?”
“Oh don’t be silly. You’ve been watching too many horror movies.”
Parents were quick to rewrite the rules. But I was fine with abiding by the urban myth of danger to politely decline a healthy treat and go for the Three Musketeers bar.
Then, just like today, one of our parents was selected to escort a small mob of kids from the neighborhood to various houses so the other parents or older siblings could hand out the treats and make all the predictable oohing and aahing over our costumes. Then, unlike today, Halloween decorations were pretty simple and generally consisted of hand-carved pumpkins with candles inside. There were of course the ghosts made of old sheets and tethered to the porch or trees—trees that might soon be home to streamers of toilet paper. And despite never having been a “roller,” my mom wasn’t taking any chances—all toilet paper was removed from my reach starting on Halloween afternoon and until I returned home that evening. The tissue was doled out on an “as needed” only basis. A mom couldn’t be too careful. These precautions didn’t so much apply to the chaperoned young kiddies as to those deemed old enough to trick or treat without adult supervision.
There was that age when we could be allowed to roam the neighborhood without an adult. And while we might have thought ourselves all grown-up at ten we were actually more easily frightened by the boogie man. We would never admit it to each other but we all knew that the parental barrier against monsters worked and now, without adults, Halloween had that delicious edge of nervous fear. What we didn’t know was that the things that went “bump” in the night were parents hovering nearby keeping a low profile eye on us, and that missing roll of Scott 1,000 sheet single-ply tissue.
Only now as an adult, can I appreciate how scary it must have been for my parents to grant me the freedom to venture out without their hand-holding and words of caution. Halloween was that cautionary tale of hidden perils and gave us kids our first taste of danger. It was a time, a coming-of-age moment when urban myths and superstitions were all we had to fear. It was a practice dry-run for the dangers that reality had to offer. I was a lucky kid and only had to face the fear of my first candy-induced cavity. Sadly, there’s not enough Novocaine to blunt today’s monsters.
By Phil LaMancusa
For sure, there are forty-two cemeteries in the New Orleans area, and daily, people are dying to get into them, but, as you can imagine, it’s still first come first served. Even considering the fact that death is such an inconvenience and, in my thoughts, a grave mistake, folks keep doin’ it and we keep burying them. Or we burn them into ashes and send them home in an urn or a box to be shelved with the canned tomatoes.
Some will say, “In New Orleans, we don’t just bury our dead, we send them off with a party, music, and dancing in the streets.” That’s kinda true. In a traditional jazz funeral here, the dearly departed are accompanied to their final rest with a brass band, the family in the front line, and the well wishers in the second line; the music is at a slow cadence until the body is laid to rest and then the band breaks into celebratory music as the soul is set free of its earthly bonds and the party moves on to the proper wake. There’s dancing and drinking and so much carrying on that folks here almost look forward to Old Aunt Rose kicking the bucket—or not.
Cemeteries here are class-conscious to be sure. The higher classes go to Metairie where there’s higher ground and they can be buried under it. The notorious and the famous prefer St. Louis Cemetery #1 where, although they’re buried above ground, at least they are among their peers. The indigent get kicked to the curb in another place and make due as they can. I have one friend who says she’d rather be buried “in Holt cemetery with them hookers and homeless than there with them muckity-mucks in town.”
Despite the fact that some people only rent tombs and some single burial plots can have upwards of twenty or more family members interred, it’s a tradition to dress someone in their finest so they can be laid out to rot. I can’t figure that one out. The rental plots are those iconic two level affairs where the casket is allowed to repose for a year and a day; after that time, a worker with a long pole pushes that which has not disintegrated with time and the tropic climate down a hole in the back of the second floor into the space below, giving rise to the adage of derision, “I wouldn’t touch you with a ten foot pole” (or so the story goes).
You can’t swing a cat here without hitting a cemetery and all the best folk are spread around like gossip: Marie Laveau (the Voodoo Queen) and Doctor John are night trippin’ in Saint Louis Cemetery #1 outside the French Quarter along with Homer Plessy, Etienne de Bore (the sugar king), and the-not-yet-dead–but-has-a–tomb, Nicholas Cage. Saint Louis #2 has Ernie K. Doe (but not his mother-in-law), and Paul Prudhomme is buried largely in Saint Louis #3.
Mount Olivet near Dillard University is swingin’ with Allen Toussaint, Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, and rapper Soulja Slim. Pete Fountain and Al Hirt are backing up Mahalia Jackson, and Gram Parsons’ charred remains in Metairie along with the “Queen of the Storyville Madams,” Josie Arlington, looking fondly on. If you’re into rather large prosthetic limbs, crutches, and eyeglasses displayed, visit the gothic revival chapel at Saint Roch Cemetery #1.
Unlike at the more ornate “Cities of the Dead,” Holt Cemetery has most of their inhabitants buried underground.
Filled to capacity with New Orleans indigent, homeless and fringe society onetime denizens, it can be depressing and haunting until you consider the probable devil-may-care lives led by those that wind up there. And among the wooden crosses, hand-lettered planks and even unmarked mounds of earth, Babe Stovall, Buddy Bolden, Jack Working, Jessie Hill, Robert Charles, and countless “ladies of the evening” are cavorting with, at last count, at least 1,400 military veterans and don’t really give a rat’s whisker what you think of them. As a side note, Huey P. Long is buried in Baton Rouge and New Orleans’ favorite son, Louis Armstrong, decided he’d rather go underground in Queens, New York.
We take an almost morbid fascination here with our cemeteries, films are shot in them, tours are given of them, rituals and macabre rites are performed in them and not one person I know doesn’t believe that spirits will rise in them at any given moment. When I read Peter S. Beagle’s A Fine and Private Place, I considered it not so much as a piece of fiction, but a documentary.
Dying isn’t enough for a person here; it’s never the end. Anyone who has ever “gotten” New Orleans will believe that when it’s time to shuffle off this mortal coil, their last thoughts will be “I ain’t goin’ nowhere,” and will find themselves as another of the myriad of ghosts, spirits, and phantasmagoria here that share the spaces of those still weighed down with human flesh. Don’t believe it if you don’t want to, but come sit a spell in one of our “cities of the dead” and bring a lunch. I guarantee you’ll feel a tap on your shoulder, an unlikely bit of breeze, or get the feeling of being watched—especially if that meal is some Brother’s fried chicken, and you can leave the bones for the myriad of felines that cohabitate with our dearly not so departed.
I read the obituaries daily to see if I’m in them; it would just be like my friends not to let me know that I’ve gone over my own Rainbow Bridge. Will I be united with all the people from my past? Maybe not. Could I possibly reconnect with all the critters that I’ve shared my life with? I’m counting on it
