Latest Issue: December 2021—Holiday Dining Guide by Where Y'at Magazine

December 2021

WhereYat.com

DINING • MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE

HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE

88Years OF CRESCENT CITY STEAKS

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

MAKE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

WITH GRAND MARNIER

CONTENTS 48

December 2021

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig

Food & Drink

Features

Creative Director: Robert Witkowski Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff

30 32

The Sparkle of Holiday Lobby Lights

A Season for the Children

Walls Project Paints the State

54 56 60

Holiday

Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker

Dining Guide

Christmas Calories are On the aughty List $20

Contributing Writers: Edward Hutter, Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Burke Bischoff, Julie Mitchell, Greg Roques, Celeste Turner, Eliana Blum, Steve Melendez, Michelle Nicholson, Sabrina Stone, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle, Rebecca Fox, Jeff Boudreaux, Camille Barnett

& Under

Food News Bar Guide

Cover Photo: Crescent City Steaks owner Krasna Vojkovich, by Romney Caruso

How Louisiana Celebrates the Season

44 Home for the Holidays: Christmas Movie Marathon

10 40

Generations of Service at Crescent City Steaks

NOLA's Trendsetting Makeup Artist

Photographers and Designers: Gus Escanelle, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle, Kathy Bradshaw, Robert Witkowski

Extras

Interns: Kayla Connor, Monwell Frazier, Shayla Baker, Re'gine Smith, Gracie Wise

58 59 62

Tales From the Quarter

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Po-Boy Views

Where Y'Been

Where Y’at Magazine 5500 Prytania St., #133 New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 891-0144 info@whereyat.com WhereYat.com

Letter from the Publisher December is here, so visit a new spot from our Holiday Dining Guide with your family and friends to celebrate holiday cheer. Crescent City Steaks originated the often imitated “New Orleans style” of cooking steaks in sizzling butter. Founded in 1934, Krasna Vojkovich has been a pioneer in the local restaurant industry. Kim Ranjbar interviewed this legend and creator of Krasna’s Cheesecake. This issue is filled with fantastic features about Christmas. Kathy Bradshaw explores holiday traditions that are unique to Louisiana, while Kimmie Tubre shares the best of kid-friendly Christmas options. Watching your figure? Then don’t miss Celeste Turner’s piece on avoiding holiday calories. And our staff shares their favorite Christmas movies, both old and new. While parts of Europe are going back into lockdown, please consider getting vaccinated. You could give the gift of Carnival to New Orleans by keeping Louisiana hospitals free of COVID cases. Happy Holidays! –Josh Danzig, Publisher

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

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PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: IGNACIO R. OLKCES2Y1EA / UNSPLASH; COURTESY CITY PARK / NOCP; KAY;A CONNOR; COURTESY MADHOUSE; WHERE Y'AT HOTO

GENERATIONS OF SERVICE By Kim Ranjbar Portrait photography by Romney Caruso

The two-story building with art deco accents on the corner of St. Phillip and N. Broad has long been a landmark on the edge of Bayou St. John. Almost 90 years ago, John Vojkovich took the industry knowledge he gained working in local restaurants and opened Crescent City Steak House at the tender age of 26, and it has remained in the family ever since. Generations of diners' voices have risen in approbation to the building's pressed tin ceilings and echoed off of the Victorian mosaic-tile floors. Patrons and their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren have returned year after year to celebrate birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries in this venerated New Orleans steakhouse. Vojkovich's story is the archetypal American dream. Born and raised in Sucuraj on the Croatian island Hvar, John (then only 15 years old) traveled to Louisiana with his father. The two began working on an oyster boat with their fellow Croatians in Plaquemines Parish, saving their money to bring his mother and sisters to America. He only lasted two months on the boat before he headed back into New Orleans and sought employment at several Downtown restaurants, working his way up in the local tradition from dishwasher to management. After 11 years learning the ins and outs of the industry, Vojkovich opened his legendary steakhouse, offering a simple menu focused on prime USDA aged beef from Chicago. After earning respect as an established restaurateur in New Orleans, Vojkovich

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

FROM TOP: GENNI NICHOLSON; STAFF IMAGE

The Vojkovich family has been feeding prime USDA steaks, served “sizzling in butter,” to over four generations of New Orleanians.

WhereYat.com | December 2021

John Vojkovich

Nick Vallelonga as "Augie" in Green Book

An immigrant from Croatia, Vojkovich founded Crescent City Steaks in 1934 at 26 years of age.

Crescent City Steaks' booths stand in for NYC's shady meetings.

returned to visit his remaining family in Croatia and that is when he espied his future wife, now the family matriarch, Krasna. “He was sitting out in front of our church with his uncle and, apparently, he asked his uncle who I was,” Krasna said. “He later said his uncle gave him a good report!” With John's cousin acting as a matchmaker, and with Krasna's approval (and her parents' approval as well), John and Krasna were soon married. Two weeks later, John returned to the States to arrange travel and immigration papers for Krasna. She flew to America alone and John met her in New York when she got off the plane. “I'd never seen a plane before,” Krasna said. “I had seen the German planes during the war, but not a real commercial plane.” The newlyweds planned to stay in New York for five days, but the shock of it all hit Krasna as soon as they reached the hotel room. Saying goodbye to her family in Croatia, coming to a country where she knew no one and

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

couldn't speak the language...it all crashed down on her and she began to cry. “He [John] asked me why I was crying, and I said, 'Just leave me alone!'” Krasna recalled, laughing at the memory. Though a drastic change from her former life, Krasna admits her marriage to John was a happy one. They lived over the restaurant on N. Broad Street and together raised four children: two boys and two girls “I was very happy,” Krasna said. “He [John] was a good man, a good father, a good husband.” Like John when he first moved to America, Krasna worked hard and sent money back home to help her family in Croatia. “I worked hard over here, but it was nothing like how hard I worked over there,” Krasna confessed. After her children were born and her youngest was a year old, John asked Krasna if she wouldn't mind helping out in the restaurant until he could find someone to take her place. “I liked it and I've been

CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT: MONWELL FRAZIER; ROMNEY CARUSO; COURTESY IUNIVERSAL PICTURES; PHOTO OF PORTRAIT BY ROBERT WITKOWSKI

7AM – 8PM Fri & Sat 9PM

"…If those booths could talk!" –Krasna Vojkovich, Crescent City Steaks owner

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there ever since,” Krasna said. Not only does she do “what nobody else will do,” a.k.a. cleaning, over the years Krasna has made it a point to learn everything that goes on behind the scenes, from cutting and cooking the meat to preparing the salad dressing, bread pudding, and (of course) her famous cheesecake. “I just stay in the back and whatever it is they need, I do. I can cut the meat, I can cook the meat, I can do whatever anybody else can do. You have to,” Krasna explained. The Vojkovichs stand firmly behind the belief that if you own a restaurant, you should know how to cook, and John made it a point to teach his children the business. When John passed away in 1990, his sons Frank and Anthony took over the business with lots of help from their mother. When she's not at the restaurant baking yet another one of her incredible Creole cream cheese cheesecakes, Krasna spends much of her time gardening. “I

love gardening,” Krasna said. “When I was growing up, we didn't have a grocery. You have to grow what you eat and you eat what you grow.” Though she loves eating fresh broccoli, cauliflower, and collard greens from her garden, Krasna also loves a good steak. “I like the rib-eye,” Krasna confessed. “The filet is too soft and has no flavor. There's no fat, no bone.” As you'd imagine, over its 87 years of business, Crescent City Steak House has a lot of history steeped into its brick walls and curtained “cheaters” alcoves. “Oh my gosh!” Krasna exclaimed. “Let me tell you, if those booths could talk!” Over the years, the steakhouse has fed true legends, folks like Elvis Presley, Fats Domino, and Mohammad Ali, not to mention local congressmen, senators, mayors, and judges. “We've fed all kinds of people, good people.” Krasna said. “The people appreciate that we serve the food our way and we cook it our way, not like anybody else.”

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ANNUNCIATION 1. Annunciation offers specialty Creole dishes that are great for adventurous eaters. 2. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for special occasions. 3. There’s something on the menu to impress everyone, like the Grilled Lamb Chops. 4. Enjoy a delicious cocktail at the decadent bar.. 5. Their Warehouse location guarantees a fun filled night before and after dinner.

FLAMINGO A-GO-GO 1. Flamingo A-Go-Go offers great frozen drinks like their margaritas and frosé. 2. Their Taste of New Orleans with gumbo, jambalaya, and more is great to share. 3. The Chicken Fried Chicken with white gravy is great for brunch. 4. The Tuna Poke Bowl with mango salsa and glass noodles is a nice healthy option. 5. The Jerk Chicken Tacos are a taste of the islands! 869 Magazine St., 504-577-2202, flamingonola.com

1016 Annunciation St., 504-568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com BRIQUETTE 1. Grab a seat at Briquette’s bar for special cocktails. 2. The Oysters Bienville en Casserole appetizer is great for sharing. 3. The Lump Crab Bisque is a super soup for a cold winter evening. 4. The Charred Kale Salad with marinated anchovies is a delicious healthy option. 5. Some of the best fish selections in town are at Briquette.

Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop

701 S. Peters St.., 504-302-749, briquette-nola.com

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

600 Carondelet St., 504-930-3070, josephineestelle.com LEGACY KITCHEN’S CRAFT TAVERN 1. Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern has a super location in the Warehouse District. 2. The Crawfish Cornbread Skillet is worth the trip alone! 3. Craft Tavern’s Tuna Tango Salad with avocado and mango is delicious and healthy. 4. The Fried Chicken Sandwich is great with the shoestring fries. 5. The Blue Cheese Truffle Chips are a great appetizer. 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-613-2350, legacykitchen.com LEGACY KITCHEN’S TACKLEBOX 1. Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox has amazing beignets offered for breakfast. 2. They have some great ice-cold raw oysters to slurp up! 3. Their Thin Fried Catfish Pecan is some of the city’s best tasting fish. 4. The Shrimp Louie Wedge Salad is a great way to start the meal. 5. The Elvis “The King” Burger is a great choice for non-seafood lovers.

LUKE 1. Luke specializes in Creole inspired seafood like Shrimp and Grits. 2. They’re also known for their raw bar, which serves anything from oysters and more. 3. Their burger with bacon and caramelized onions is one of the best in New Orleans. 4. It’s a hot spot for both lunch and dinner, all in one restaurant. 5. Chef Erick Loos’ dishes highlight local purveyors and farmers’ market ingredients.

527 Julia St, 504-875-4132, cafecarmo.com

600 S. Peters St., 504-525-8544, ernstcafe.com

Enjoy the variety of their extensive wine collection. Grab a pre-dinner drink in either one of their beautiful lobby bars at the Ace Hotel.

817 Common St., 504-827-1651, legacykitchen.com

CARMO 1. Carmo’s Broken Noodle Salad offers a delicious taste of Asia. 2. The Rico is an amazing plantain dish topped with housesmoked pulled pork. 3. The Caribbean Banana Cake is a light refreshing dessert. 4. The Kottu is a delicious stir-fried roti dish with roots from Sri Lanka. 5. The Peruvian ceviche features the day’s local catch.

ERNEST CAFE 1. The Blue Crab Cake Sandwich with jalapeno slaw is a super good meal. 2. Ernest Cafe has some of the best red beans and rice in the Warehouse District. 3. It’s a super fun spot to watch the big game with its multiple TVs. 4. The cafe is steps away from Harrah’s and the Fulton Street corridor. 5. The Roast Beef Po-boy calls for multiple napkins!

4. 5.

333 St. Charles Ave., 504-378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

JOSEPHINE ESTELLE 1. Jospehine Estelle provides some of the freshest Louisiana seafood in your pasta. 2. Keep it traditional or go fancy with many of their other delicious fusion dishes! 3. The Instagram worthy dishes will leave you feeling happy and full.

MANNING’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 1. Manning’s has some of the best wings, BBQ ribs, and nachos in New Orleans. 2. They have over 30 flat screen TVs, two 13-foot mega-screens, and a sports anchor desk. 3. Enjoy the game in comfort and style in one of their many La-ZBoy type chairs. 4. They have a delicious Chicken & Andouille Gumbo with jasmine rice.

FROM TOP: MONWELL FRAZIER DESIGN; KAYLA CONNOR

CBD/WAREHOUSE

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Manning’s has 24 beers on tap, so drink up!

519 Fulton St., 504-593-8118, caesars.com MOTHER’S RESTAURANT 1. Mother’s Restaurant has some of the city’s best sweet potato pie. 2. The restaurant is super popular, so arrive early on weekends to avoid the line. 3. They offer great catering options for the holiday season. 4. The Famous Ferdi Special Po-boy with baked ham and roast beef is spectacular. 5. Their delicious seafood gumbo is great for a cold day. 401 Poydras St., 504-523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

WITH R’EVOLUTION

Share a festive holiday meal with coworkers, friends and family in the French Quarter. This December enjoy Reveillon Dinner, Lunch on Fridays, Happy Hour or a private event. Contact revolution@sonesta.com to learn more or visit OpenTable for reservations. DINNER WEDNESDAY — SUNDAY FROM 5PM LUNCH FRIDAYS 11:30AM —2PM 777 BIENVILLE STREET | REVOLUTIONNOLA.COM

ROUX BISTRO 1. Roux Bistro is located inside the beautiful Sheraton Hotel on Canal Street. 2. They specialize in contemporary Creole and Cajun classics. 3. Enjoy items such as a breakfast po-boy or the Gulf shrimp with grits. 4. Grab a café au lait for a true New Orleans after meal treat. 5. Make sure to grab a po-boy and a side of gumbo.

444 St. Charles Ave., 504-680-7000, trenasse.com

Bud's Broiler

SEAWORTHY 1. Seaworthy, given the name, is the perfect spot for seafood lovers. 2. Their menu lets you explore seafood from all of the fishing locations around the country. 3. Try something from their long list of exciting cocktails to accompany your seafood. 4. Enjoy an adult beverage at the bar next to their Oyster Bar made of ice! 5. Enjoy live music at the Three Keys music venue next door to Seaworthy.

THE TROUBADOUR LOUNGE & LISTENING ROOM 1. The Troubadour Lounge & Listening Room is located inside the nice Troubadour Hotel. 2. The lounge is a great and comfortable place to listen to live music. 3. Its easy-going atmosphere makes it perfect to enjoy some cocktails with friends. 4. On nights when they don’t have live music, they spin classic vinyls for your enjoyment. 5. Visit their rooftop bar The Monkey Board for a great view of the city after your meal.

630 Carondelet St., 504-930-3071, seaworthynola.com

1111 Gravier St., 504-518-5500, troubadourlounge.squarespace.com

THE STEAKHOUSE AT HARRAH’S 1. The Steakhouse at Harrah’s is located steps away from your favorite slot machines. 2. They offer gourmet steakhouse classics inspired by the flavors of New Orleans. 3. Make sure to save some room and order their mouthwatering desserts for dinner! 4. Expect exceptional service and some of the most delicious craft cocktails in the city. 5. Chef Ryan Witcher is known for his awardwinning pastries and desserts.

WILLA JEAN 1. Willa Jean celebrates Southern flavors with its fresh and local ingredients. 2. They are known for serving breakfast and lunch throughout the week. 3. They also have Saturday and Sunday brunch! 4. Try anything from their delicious “Biscuit Station,” like the Fried Chicken Biscuit. 5. Their Croque Madame sandwich on brioche is really fantastic.

8 Canal St., 504-533-6111, caesars.com

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

TRENASSE 1. Trenasse serves Gulf Coast cuisine with Southern Louisiana style and flare. 2. Go for brunch, Taco Tuesday, dinner, happy hour, or just to simply devour some oysters. 3. The Smoky Braised Short Ribs with cheese grits are highly recommended. 4. Oysters are on the menu everyday at Trenasse! 5. Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday with bottomless mimosas.

501 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-324-3073, peacockroomnola.com

500 Canal St., 504-525-2500 ext. 5795, marriott.com

1200 Poydras St., 504-577-2937, stumpyshh.com/neworleansla

611 O’Keefe Ave., 504-509-7334, willajean.com

MONWELL FRAZIER

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS

THE PEACOCK ROOM 1. The Peacock Room describes itself as an “elevated” cocktail bar. 2. Their cocktail menu, as well as their food menu, will leave you satisfied. 3. The Peacock Burger with bacon-boursin cheese and tomato jam is particularly delicious. 4. Bring your smart phones to capture one of the most beautiful interiors in NOLA. 5. Take your date or significant other to one of the most romantic date spots in the city.

STUMPY’S HATCHET HOUSE 1. Hot and fresh popcorn goes great with cold beer at Stumpy’s Hatchet House. 2. Wednesday is Ladies Night with 20% off, so head out with your gal pals! 3. Great for bachelor or bachelorette parties, so let the hatchets fly! 4. The Nachos from the snack bar are great for sharing. 5. Remember to ring the bell when you hit the bull’s eye!

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

DARROW

329 Decatur St., 504-373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com

HOUMAS HOUSE & GARDENS 1. Houmas House contains three restaurants in a beautiful mansion and plantation. 2. The Carriage House offers Louisiana-inspired fare like Louisianan ribs and turtle soup. 3. The Dixie Cafe also offers local-style cafe food like Red Beans and Rice. 4. Latil’s Landing provides a more fine dining, white-tablecloth experience. 5. Enjoy a beautiful stroll through the grounds after a delicious meal.

HOUSE OF BLUES NEW ORLEANS 1. The House of Blues provides great live music for anyone looking for a night on the town. 2. Their menu is Southern-inspired and is filled with many scrumptious treats. 3. Make sure to order the Yardbird chicken sandwich with slaw and pickle chips. 4. They are well known for their delicious burgers and gumbo. 5. Enjoy all of the music references in their one-of-a-kind atmosphere. 225 Decatur St.504-310-4999, houseofblues.com/ neworleans

401336 LA-942, Darrow, 225-473-9380, houmashouse.com

FRENCH QUARTER

JIMMY J’S CAFÉ 1. Jimmy J’s is a local gem that embraces the funky spirit of the city. 2. Their menu offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as weekly specials. 3. The different cochon dishes are some of the best around. 4. Plan ahead because the line starts early for lunch at this popular establishment. 5. They also serve breakfast all day, so enjoy their Eggs Benedict anytime!

CAFÉ AMELIE 1. Cafe Amelie offers menus that are perfect for a romantic date night or a Sunday brunch. 2. Their lit-up courtyard adds great ambiance for special occasions or private events. 3. For the true Amelie experience, try their signature Short Ribs & Johnny Cakes dish. 4. They were voted Best Outdoor Dining by Where Y’at’s readers. 5. You’ll be able to enjoy a nice stroll through the French Quarter after you eat. 912 Royal St., 504-412-8965, cafeamelie.com CURIO 1. Curio’s Chilled Blue Crab Claws with a side salad are a great appetizer for your meal. 2. The Candied Fried Pork Ribs are a unique treat. 3. Their French Toast with two farm fresh eggs and bacon is a great choice for brunch. 4. The Fried Green Tomato Chips and Gulf Shrimp Remoulade is great for sharing. 5. They have a unique gumbo of roast duck, black-eyed peas, and andouille sausage.

The Blue Crab EVANGELINE 1. Evangeline has a charming atmosphere that is perfect for special occasions. 2. Start off with golden fried okra, fried green tomatoes, or fried alligator for an appetizer. 3. Sit outside on their beautiful patio, with privacy and heaters when it’s cold! 4. Eat entrees straight from the bayou like the mouthwatering Crawfish and Grits dish. 5. They got oysters? Yup! Enjoy a dozen raw before your entree.

MRB BAR & KITCHEN 1. MRB has all your favorite NOLA classics, plus plenty of specialty drinks! 2. Get the chicken fried alligator sandwich on a Hawaiian sour dough bun. 3. With live music to accompany your meal, each dining experience will be unique. 4. Try their one-of-a-kind Ostrich Burger on a brioche bun. 5. They host two dog-friendly patios and encourage you to bring your best furry friend! 515 St. Philip St., 504-524-2558, mrbnola.com NEW ORLEANS CREOLE COOKERY 1. New Orleans Creole Cookery has heated courtyard seating,

KAYLA CONNOR

301 Royal St., 504-717-4198, curionola.com

115 Chartres St., 504-309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

2. 3. 4. 5.

which is perfect for winter! They have fantastic oyster happy hour pricings in the bar. Not only that, Creole Cookery has a special brunch menu on weekends. Chef Alex Patout’s Crab Cakes are the real deal. The Vegetarian Jambalaya is a great choice for all vegetarians.

510 Toulouse St., 504-524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com NEW ORLEANS VAMPIRE CAFÉ 1. New Orleans Vampire Café’s Fried Deviled Eggs with caviar are a truly unique treat. 2. Their Vampire Burger is one of the best burgers in the French Quarter. 3. The Deluxe Charcuterie Board with meat and cheese is a great appetizer to share. 4. Their Elephant Garlic is a delicious way to keep the vampires away! 5. The café’s Tuna Tartare goes particularly great with the “bloody” cocktails.

BYWATER BREW PUB 1. Bywater Brew Pub’s Phoritto is so big, there’s enough to take home afterwards. 2. The Beer Beignet Bites are a unique and tasty after dinner treat. 3. It’s a great spot for delicious Vietnamese and Louisiana flavors. 4. Make sure to ask for the pub’s seasonal brewed beer! 5. It’s also a fantastic place to go to during crawfish season.

4. 5.

book give-aways! Watch out for their outdoor sign for any current crawfish pricing that they offer. Melba’s is open 24/7, so enjoy their po-boys whenever you feel like it.

1525 Elysian Fields Ave., 504-267-7765, melbas.com

METAIRIE

3000 Royal St., 504-766-8118, bywaterbrewpub.com MELBA’S POBOYS 1. Wash World is right next door, so you can do your laundry while you eat at Melba’s. 2. Not only do they have great po-boys, they also have an amazing daiquiri selection. Lottery-WhereYat-Holiday21 ad.pdf 3. Follow them on social media for their free

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A TAVOLA RESTAURANT & WINE BAR 1. A Tavola’s Pan-Fried Crab Cakes are packed to the brim with delicious lump crab meat. 2. The Beef Short Rib Brasato is particularly amazing with its side of polenta. 3. Their Lobster Ravioli features large chunks of lobster with a sherry butter sauce. 4. The Pepperoni Pizza will surely please your little ones. 5. Get the Baked Goat Cheese Al Forno appetizer and share it around!

801 Royal St., 504-581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com ORLEANS GRAPEVINE 1. Orleans Grapevine has one of the city’s best wines by the glass menus. 2. Sip on any of their wines at their beautiful outdoor courtyard. 3. It’s just steps away from the historic and world famous Jackson Square. 4. The bar and bistro is a super date spot for a night out in the French Quarter. 5. Their Baked Brie with your choice of topping is great for sharing with your date. 720 Orleans Ave., 504-523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com RESTAURANT R’EVOLUTION 1. Restaurant R’evolution is located inside the beautiful Royal Sonesta New Orleans. 2. The restaurant and bar gives off a cool PreProhibition atmosphere. 3. Go really fancy and try the different caviar on offer. 4. The Louisiana Citrus Doberge is the perfect dish to end a meal. 5. The restaurant is the perfect place to spend Christmas Day or have a réveillon dinner. 777 Bienville St., 504-553-2277, revolutionnola.com

LAKEVIEW THE CRAZY ITALIAN PIZZERIA 1. The Crazy Italian Pizzeria gives you New York pizza without having to leave the city. 2. Try the Mount Vesuvius Shrimp tossed in a spicy remoulade sauce. 3. All of their classic Italian dishes will leave you very full and satisfied. 4. It’s the perfect place to pick up a pizza after a day at City Park. 5. Go classic and order the meatballs and the garlic knots! 206 W. Harrison Ave., 504-766-7914, thecrazyitalianpizzeria.com

MONWELL FRAZIER

MARIGNY/BYWATER BUFFA’S BAR & RESTAURANT 1. Buffa’s presents an unpretentious atmosphere that’s great for hanging out with friends. 2. They provide live music every Thursday through Monday. 3. Named one of Esquire’s Best Bars in America. 4. Their Bratwurst Jambalaya is as unique as it is delicious. 5. Make sure to try one of their mouthwatering burgers, such as the Buffa Burger.

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1001 Esplanade Ave., 504-949-0038, buffasbar.com

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3413 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 504-5772235, atavo.la CHEF RON’S GUMBO STOP 1. Chef Ron’s menu offers a ton of different gumbo options. 2. The loaded po-boys are great and have led the restaurant to receive many awards. 3. The Mumbo Gumbo has it all: chicken, shrimp, crab meat, and crawfish. 4. Enjoy your hot gumbo on their big, new back patio! 5. Order online and bring home the best takeout gumbo to your family with ease. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., 504-835-2022, gumbostop.com THE GALLEY SEAFOOD 1. The Galley Seafood had their start in 1977. 2. They are most famous for their Soft Shell Crab Po-boy and the Catfish Filet Po-boy. 3. The Crawfish Hushpuppies are a delicious and unique appetizer to share around. 4. Their Corn Grits are a perfect side dish for any of their entrees. 5. Make sure to try the Hot Sausage Sandwich as well!

4. 5.

butter and bacon. The Bub Royale is very similar to Pulp Fiction’s “Royale with Cheese.” Their De Gen Fries with cheese fries, bacon, jalapenos, and ranch are a must-try.

4413 Banks St., 504-581-8054, bubsnola.com CAFE DEGAS 1. Cafe Degas gives a taste of NOLA’s roots by serving authentic French cuisine. 2. The Roasted Quail, and Veal Liver are just a few of their many adventurous dishes. 3. Try the mouthwatering Belgium Waffle for breakfast. 4. Located on a beautiful stretch of Esplanade Avenue, you’ll be sure to have a nice view. 5. Their French Onion Soup is a local favorite. 3127 Esplanade Ave., 504-945-5635, cafedegas.com

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4400 Banks St. 483-8609

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2535 Metairie Rd., 504-8320955, thegalleyseafood.net NEPHEW’S RISTORANTE 1. Nephew’s has a long history of preparing Sicilian food for Metairie’s residents. 2. All of their delicious entrees are served with pasta. 3. Make sure to order from the a la carte and dessert menu as well. 4. Pair any one of their delicious entrees with their large wine selection. 5. Chef Frank Catalonotto previously served delicious Sicilian meals at Tony Angello’s. 4445 W. Metairie Ave., 504-533-9998, nephewsristorante.com SHORT STOP PO-BOYS 1. Short Stop Po-boys has a very convenient drive-thru window. 2. Their Seafood Gumbo with crab meat and shrimp can be a perfect side dish to your meal. 3. Short Stop’s Roast Beef Po-boy ranks with the city’s best! 4. They’ve been feeding Metairie since 1966. 5. They’re also a great catering option for your holiday party. 119 Transcontinental Dr., 504-885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

LEBANON’S CAFE

MIDDLE EAST CUISINE √ A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE Great Selection Of Vegetarian Dishes

Lunch & Dinner Daily (Closed on Tuesdays)

APPETIZERS Humus √ Falafel √ Bathenjan Dip (Roasted Eggplant w/ Garlic) √ Vegetarian Grape Leaves

DINNERS Shish Kabob (Chicken, Lamb or Beef ) √ Lula Kabob (Lamb) √ Humus w/ Lamb Meat √ Rosemary Lamb Chops

1500 S. CARROLLTON √ UPTOWN TELEPHONE: 862-6200/862-0768 16

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

SPUDLY’S SUPER SPUDS 1. Spudly’s has been providing Metairie their “meals in baked potatoes” for over 40 years. 2. Anything you could possibly want in a baked potato is sure to be on Spudly’s menu. 3. The restaurant also serves really tasty soups, salads, sandwiches, and burgers. 4. Believe it or not, they serve one of the best kept secret Rueben’s in all of Metairie. 5. Spudly’s is especially famous for their Super Duper Spud. 2609 Harvard Ave., 504-455-3250, spudlys.com

MID-CITY BUB’S NOLA 1. Bub’s started as a pop up in 2020 by five friends. 2. The restaurant has a great location next to Banks St. Bar. 3. Try the Peanut Bubber Burger with peanut

CRESCENT CITY STEAKS 1. Crescent City Steaks has been serving New Orleans for over 87 years 2. They invented the “NOLA-style” of sizzling steaks in butter. 3. They also offer dishes like Broiled Salmon and Broiled Lobster Tail. 4. Make sure to try their great Bread Pudding! 5. They have a great wine selection to go with your perfectly cooked steak. 1001 N. Broad St., 504-821-3271, crescentcitysteaks com MANDINA’S RESTAURANT 1. Mandina’s Oyster Po-boy is absolutely delicious. 2. Grab a craft cocktail at their spacious bar while you wait for your table. 3. Make sure to order the Soft Shell Crab whenever they have it in. 4. The delicious Eggplant Sticks are great for the whole table to enjoy as an appetizer. 5. They have a huge parking lot with on-duty security guards. 3800 Canal St., 504-482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com MIKIMOTO 1. Mikimoto has all of the freshest sushi that you can find in New Orleans. 2. Ever heard of drive-through sushi? Mikimoto offers it! 3. Winner of Best Sushi Restaurant, as decided by Where Y’at Magazine’s readers. 4. They’ve been serving the Greater New Orleans area for more than 20 years. 5. Try the Spicy NOFD Roll, in honor of the New Orleans Fire Department. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-1881, mikimotosushi.com NEYOW’S CREOLE CAFÉ 1. Neyow’s is home to some of the best gumbo and red beans around.

KAYLA CONNOR

6307 S. Miro St. at Clairborne 509-6224

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2. 3. 4. 5.

‘‘Good Food at Good Prices”

Their large servings are perfect for sharing meals with your friends. Neyow’s chargrilled oysters, crawfish balls, and crab claws are always top notch. Try their signature cocktail, The Bow Wow. Enjoy fresh shucked raw oysters every day!

3332 Bienville St., 504-827-5474, neyows. com

– SINCE 1946 -

1751 St. Charles Avenue [504] 525-9131 PleaseuNOLA.com

VENEZIA 1. Venezia’s Spaghetti and Meatballs will make you feel like a kid again! 2. Their Chicken Parmigiana dish is one of the city’s best. 3. Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy one of their craft cocktails before your meal. 4. The Eggplant Vatican with shrimp and crawfish is a popular dish for lovers of eggplant. 5. The Fried Calamari appetizer is a huge portion, so dig in! 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-7991, venezianeworleans.net

DON’T MISS THE

MULTIPLE

SNEW YEAR'S EVE

BEARCAT CAFÉ 1. Enjoy delicious breakfast cocktails at the bar at Bearcat Café’s CBD location. 2. Both locations feature fantastic outdoor seating. 3. The Cat Daddy Biscuit with chicken, gravy, and an egg is a must-try. 4. Their Bison Sausage is unlike any other that you’ve tried before. 5. The Crab Scramble with asparagus and potatoes is perfect for seafood lovers.

SUGAR BOWL ISSUE

that overlooks Transcontinental Boulevard. They also have plenty of tasty desserts to choose from!

Multiple Locations, caffecaffe.com CARRETA’S GRILL 1. Carreta’s Grill has been serving Mexican cuisine across NOLA for over 20 years. 2. With burritos, enchiladas, margaritas, and more, it’s the perfect spot for your next fiesta! 3. Enjoy their signature Grilled, Steak, or Shrimp Fajitas. 4. Save room for their churros or fried ice cream for dessert. 5. Known for their great margaritas, good luck trying to not have more than one! Multiple Locations, carretasgrillrestaurant.com COPELAND’S OF NEW ORLEANS 1. Copeland’s not only has locations all over Louisiana, but also in parts of the South. 2. Start off your meal right with the Crawfish Bread appetizer. 3. Their Cajun Gumbo Ya Ya provides a classic taste of Louisiana. 4. Their Steak Filet is sure to satisfy your appetite. 5. They also offer their own catering, so give them a call! Multiple Locations, copelandsofneworleans.com

Neyow's

Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com

DEADLINE: DEC. 15 | STREET DATE: DEC. 18

Call [504] 891-0144 to Advertise!

BUD’S BROILER 1. Bud’s Broiler is home to New Orleans’ favorite charbroiled burgers. 2. Their Canal Boulevard location is right next to Morning Call! 3. Bud’s Hickory Smoked Sauce makes everything taste better! 4. You can also order their delicious Fried Seafood Plates with catfish and shrimp. 5. They also have finger-licking wings with your choice of dipping sauce.

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P R ee ss ee rr vv aa tt ii oo nn ss P ll ee aa ss ee CC aa ll ll ff oo rr R P l e a s e C(504) a l l f o r R568-0245 eservations

(504) 568-0245 (504) 568-0245

1016 Annunciation St.

New Orleans, LA 70130 www.annunciationrestaurant.com 1016 Annunciation St.

1016New Annunciation St. Orleans, LA 70130 1016 Annunciation St. New Orleans, LA 70130

www.annunciationrestaurant.com New Orleans, LA 70130 www.annunciationrestaurant.com www.annunciationrestaurant.com

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

THE BLUE CRAB RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR 1. The Blue Crab proudly serves only the freshest Louisiana seafood. 2. Enjoy the Pontchartrain breeze at their Lakefront or Northshore locations. 3. They provide live music every Friday through Sunday. 4. Blue Crab’s happy hour is every Tuesday through Thursday from 4-6:30 p.m. 5. Make sure to order their tasty raw or chargrilled oysters. Multiple Locations, thebluecrabnola.com CAFFE! CAFFE! 1. Caffe! Caffe! has won a number of awards for their quality food. 2. Come early for some delicious breakfast, or go during lunch for a refreshing salad. 3. There are also a large number of sandwiches, wraps, and salads to select from. 4. The Metairie location hosts a beautiful patio

DAISY DUKES 1. Daisy Dukes was named Winner of Best Bloody Mary 2021 by Where Y’at readers. 2. The restaurant creates that perfect Southern atmosphere for enjoying Cajun cuisine. 3. With seven locations, there are many opportunities for you to try their classic dishes. 4. Try the Breakfast Sandwich with egg, cheese, and your choice of meat. 5. With some locations open 24 hours, it can even make the perfect late-night snack! Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com FELIX’S RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR 1. Felix’s has tons of fantastic options for

KAYLA CONNOR

Multiple Locations, facebook.com/Buds-Broiler

A spirited sanctuary in the heart of New Orleans. You’re invited Open 7 Days a Week 544 Carondelet St barmarilou.com @barmarilou

329 DECATUR STREET • 504-373-4852 Cajun Cookin Makes You Good Lookin’! evangelineneworleans.com

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

2. 3. 4. 5.

oysters, served in multiple different ways. The Blackened Alligator appetizer is a popular option. Definitely order the soft shell crab once it comes into season. Grab a table at the Lakefront location to see the sunset along with live music. Felix’s is known for having great service, so you’ll be well taken care of!

Multiple Locations, felixs.com JUAN’S FLYING BURRITO 1. Juan’s Blackened Fish Tacos are some of the best fish tacos in the city. 2. The Jerk Chicken Street Tacos are popular for lovers of Jamaican flavors. 3. Try the Cuatro: guacamole, salsa, queso, and bacon-topped bean dip. 4. Juan’s has one of the best collections of tequila in New Orleans. 5. All locations feature outdoor dining, so enjoy the winter air! Multiple Locations, juansflyingburrito.com MID-CITY PIZZA 1. Mid-City Pizza’s Uptown location is across the street from Tulane’s football stadium. 2. The Meat Monster is packed with pepperoni, hot sausage, meatball, bacon, and ham. 3. The BBQ Chicken Pizza features an amazing BBQ sauce. 4. Their Caesar Salad is a good and light way to start off your meal. 5. The Shrimp Remoulade Pizza is drizzled with really delicious remoulade sauce. Multiple Locations, midcitypizza.com THE RUBY SLIPPER CAFE 1. The Ruby Slipper Cafe has locations all over the Gulf South. 2. The Bananas Foster Pain Perdu is great for

3. 4. 5.

those with a sweet tooth. Ruby Slipper’s Eggs Cochon features applebraised pork debris and hollandaise sauce. The Chicken St. Charles is definitely for those who love fried chicken. Get the Migas with spicy chorizo for a taste of Mexico.

Multiple Locations, therubyslippercafe.net SPAHR’S SEAFOOD 1. Spahr’s is committed to serving their customers an authentic Cajun experience. 2. It’s home to “The Original” Catfish Chips, gumbo, Bloody Mary’s, and more. 3. Spahr’s is an essential visit if you’re looking for a classic Louisiana meal. 4. Their seafood is great, but don’t count out their delicious Grilled Hamburger Steak. 5. Check them out in Des Allemands, Thibodaux, or Galliano.

choice. Make sure to call for their catering options!

Multiple Locations, williemaesnola.com

UPTOWN BAYOU HOT WINGS 1. Bayou Hot Wings has 13 different flavors that you can choose from for your wings. 2. Don’t miss out on trying their mouthwatering Southern Fried Gator Bites. 3. In addition, order and try out their Fried Frog Legs.

4. 5.

Bayou Hot Wings is a particular favorite hangout for Tulane and Loyola students. They also have great burgers, including the Bayou Burger.

6221 S. Claiborne Ave., 504-865-9464, bayouhotwings.com CASAMENTO’S RESTAURANT 1. Casamento’s has been serving some of the finest Louisiana seafood since 1919. 2. It’s a must-go spot for tourists exploring the most classic joints in the city. 3. Casamento’s will not disappoint you with any of its great seafood. 4. The Oyster Loaf will absolutely leave you speechless. 5. Casamento’s serves raw oysters every day that they’re open! 4330 Magazine St., 504-895-9761, casamentosrestaurant.com CHICKEN & WATERMELON 1. After you eat at Chicken & Watermelon, grab a daiquiri next door at Jazz Daiquiris. 2. The Garlic Parmesan Wings are really delicious and perfect for sharing. 3. Don’t miss the Fish Bites while you’re there! 4. The Jerk Fries are finger-licking good and a great taste of island flavors. 5. Try the Oprah Punch to go with your wings.

Multiple Locations, spahrsseafood.com WILLIE MAE’S SCOTCH HOUSE 1. Visit Willie Mae’s at its Pythian Market location before the next Saints game. 2. Their Red Beans and Rice are a great tasting and classic side dish. 3. You’ve got to try the amazing Fried Chicken Sandwich. 4. The Bread Pudding with white chocolate and rum sauce is a great dessert

3400 S. Claiborne Ave., 504-896-4596, boogiebird.com

Chicken & Watermelon

DOWN THE HATCH BAR & GRILL 1. Down The Hatch serves delicious and reasonably priced cuisine in the Garden District. 2. In addition to satisfying drinks, they offer wings, sandwiches, burgers, platters, and more. 3. Save room for the homemade Bread Pudding or the New York Cheesecake.

Serving New Orleans For Over 100 Years!

O FOR GUMB LIDAYS! O THE H Catering for

4330 Magazine Street 504-895-9761 20

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

Your day li the Ho n!” Seaso

ORDER ONLINE AT GUMBOSTOP.COM

MONWELL FRAZIER

Order

WhereYat.com | December 2021

e C l e bration k c i N . t S in the

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11TH 11AM-4PM Featuring live music, a petting zoo, children’s arts and crafts, and the St. Nick Sweets Trail a trick-or-treat style event throughout the French Market District! LEARN MORE @ WWW.FRENCHMARKET.COM

4. 5.

Try their outstanding Alligator Po-boy. Eat inside or outside on their beautifully quaint patio.

1921 Sophie Wright Pl., 504-522-0909, downthehatchnola.com LEBANON’S CAFÉ 1. Sit at Lebanon’s outdoor seating to watch the streetcar go by. 2. The Chargrilled Rosemary Lamb Chops are a real treat! 3. Lebanon’s is BYOB, so bring some Almaza beer to make your dinner authentic. 4. Their Lentil Soup is great for a cold New Orleans day. 5. The Eggplant Sandwich on French bread is one of the city’s best sandwiches. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-6200, lebanonscafe.com MR. TEQUILA BAR & GRILL 1. Mr. Tequila is owned and operated by three brothers originally from Mexico. 2. The bar and grill serves authentic Mexican cuisine, as well as Tex-Mex. 3. From salads and nachos to enchiladas and tacos, your taste buds will be having a fiesta! 4. Their flan and churros are also perfect. 5. Enjoy one of the best margaritas in Uptown at their beautiful bar.

2. 3. 4. 5.

with locals and Uptown students alike. Their Crabcake Benedict is considered to be an all time neighborhood favorite. The Mexican breakfast-style Huevos Rancheros are some of the best in town. Their Silver Dollar Pancakes are great with a side of eggs and bacon. The Sausalito Omelet with spinach takes its name from a city in California.

7801 Panola St., 504-314-1810, panolastreetcafe.com SAJ 1. Saj’s namesake saj bread is a house-baked treat that is very popular in the Middle East. 2. The restaurant’s upscale funky decor make it a unique place to visit. 3. Their Beetroot Tahini small plate is a unique and savory appetizer. 4. Saj’s outdoor tables provide a great view of the action on Magazine Street. 5. Try their house mocktails for a refreshing drink! 4126 Magazine St., 504-766-0049, sajnola.com

5018 Freret St., 504-766-9660, mrtequilanola. com

D I S C O V E R T H E •••

1838 Napoleon Ave., 504-895 4877, pascalsmanale.com PLEASE U RESTAURANT 1. Please U Restaurant provides a very pleasing dining experience. 2. They offer some great Greek food, including Gyros and Greek Salads. 3. They’ve been in operation in New Orleans since 1946. 4. They’re a great spot to visit before going to see some Carnival parades. 5. Not only is the food good, they have some super-friendly service. 1751 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-9131, pleaseunola.com

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Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

RED GRAVY 1. Sit on Red Gravy’s cozy outdoor patio for brunch or dinner. 2. Their Italian-American holiday dinner Feast of Seven Fishes is a must-try. 3. The Brulee French Toast with caramel, pecans, and fruit is a perfect brunch dish. 4. The Lasagna Bolognese is very mouthwatering and great for a cold night. 5. Their Miso Butter Shrimp dish is light, but filling. 4206 Magazine St., 504-561-8844, redgravycafe.com RICCOBONO’S PANOLA STREET CAFÉ 1. Riccobono’s Panola Street Café is popular

The Vintage TITO’S CEVICHE & PISCO 1. The food at Tito’s allows you to take a trip abroad while staying right here in NOLA. 2. Their mouthwatering, authentic Peruvian cuisine is equally delicious and beautiful. 3. Enjoy drinks outside on one of their two patios overlooking Magazine Street. 4. Try their award winning Pisco Sours and other Pisco cocktails. 5. Fan of ceviche? There’s no better place to get some than at Tito’s. 5015 Magazine St., 504-267-7612, titoscevichepisco.com THE VINTAGE 1. The Vintage is a great spot to take a date after shopping on Magazine Street. 2. The Fancy Beignet Flight is a nice sampler to start out with. 3. Look out for their King Cake Beignet for Carnival! 4. The Vintage has some of the best selection of sparkling wines in town. 5. Grab a seat on their outdoor patio to peoplewatch while you eat. 3121 Magazine St., 504-324-7144, thevintagenola.com

MONWELL FRAZIER

•••

PASCAL’S MANALE 1. Pascal’s Manale has one of the city’s best happy hours. 2. Their Raw Oyster Bar alone is a must-visit. 3. They have private rooms that are perfect for holiday parties and special occasions. 4. They also have one of the city’s best Turtle Soups. 5. Their Crab Cake features jumbo lump crab meat mixed with their house mayo.

WESTBANK AKASIA’S CAFÉ 1. Chef Akasia Lee is a prominent chef and redefines customer satisfaction. 2. Choose one of the mouthwatering dishes from the café’s premade cafe menu. 3. Also known for their catering menu, this is the perfect spot to cater your next event. 4. Put fish, chicken, or a pork chop on top of their tasty red beans and rice on Mondays. 5. Akasia’s has some of the best daily specials on the Westbank. 5600 Westbank Expy., Marrero, 504-345-2563, letuscaterforyou.org CAFE 615 (HOME OF DA WABBIT) 1. Cafe 615 has some of the best fried chicken in all of Gretna. 2. Da Wabbit Hamburger Steak is a must-try for those who love beef. 3. They also have a truly fantastic Turtle Soup with sherry. 4. Cafe 615 is great for catering parties and seafood boils. 5. Their Crab Meat Stuffed Mushrooms are an amazing start to your meal. 615 Kepler St., Gretna, 504-365-1225, cafe615.com GATTUSO’S NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT 1. Gattuso’s has a variety of sandwiches and wraps to please everyone in your party. 2. The Firecracker Shrimp Salad is a real knockout! 3. Gattuso’s outdoor patio is perfect for a drink after work with friends. 4. Their stocked-up bar has over 14 beers on tap, so drink up! 5. Enjoy original cocktails like the Pumpkin Spice White Russian and Velvety Kiss Martini. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, 504-368-1114, gattusos.net LEGACY KITCHEN’S STEAK + CHOP 1. Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop is a great spot for a date night on the Westbank. 2. The restaurant has some truly amazing Charbroiled Oysters with grilled bread. 3. Their Cheeseburger is one of the best on the Westbank. 4. The Skillet Crawfish Cornbread is a must-try before your main course. 5. Not only that, the Chinatown Shrimp is also a great and unique appetizer. 91 Westbank Expy. #51, Gretna, 504-513-2606, legacykitchen.com MOSCA’S RESTAURANT 1. Mosca’s is best enjoyed with a large group to share all of the family-style food. 2. Pre-order the Pineapple Fluff dessert in case they run out. 3. Their famous Oysters Mosca is a seafood-lover’s dream. 4. Get two orders of the Pasta Alioi because you’ll definitely want extra. 5. Mosca’s is cash only, so make sure you come prepared.luck trying to not have more than one! 4137 US-90 W., Westwego, 504-436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com TAVOLINO PIZZA & LOUNGE 1. Tavolino’s is located in beautiful Algiers Point, right by the ferry terminal. 2. While there, don’t miss out on their Behrman Hwy Pizza! 3. Drink inside or outside on one of their two cozy patios. 4. Their large selection of speciality pizzas will keep you coming back to try a different one! 5. Their menu focuses on Nouvelle cuisine meets homestyle cooking. 141 Delaronde St., Algiers, 504-605-3365, instagram.com/tavolinonola

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

HO-HOHOTEL HOPPING 24

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

The Best Holiday Lobby Light Displays to Check Out in NOLA By Rebecca Fox

It’s that time of year again, and the Caesar’s Superdome isn’t the only thing brightly lit up in New Orleans—during the holidays coming there's no shortage of light displays around town, including a ton of tried-and-true local favorites.

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks, Lafreniere Park’s Holiday Lights, The Miracle on Fulton Street, Audubon’s Zoo Lights, and NOLA ChristmasFest (the latter is especially amazing in inclement weather) have all been providing family holiday fun for years, but all, of a sudden, there was a new show in town with the recent revitalization of Canal Street—hotel lobbies. Families of all ages have made entire evenings of “lobby hopping”—checking out

guests can view a beautiful Gingerbread House Village designed by Pastry Chef Matt Serkes, and this year’s theme is the St. Louis Cathedral. There’s even gourmet hot chocolate available for purchase on the weekends, so you can hang out and warm up for a little while. Something unique about the Windsor Court’s display is their Windsor Wishes tree. Guests can write their dreams on one of the complimentary ornaments offered by

87 Celebrating

YEARS OF BUSINESS

1001 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 crescentcitysteaks.com

(504) 821-3271

TAKEO & INDOOURT DINING! GELATO IS HERE!

Windsor Court Hotel free light displays at some of New Orleans’ finest hotels. Here are some don’t miss holiday lobbies for 2021: Windsor Court Hotel - The holiday spirit came alive in November with the Windsor Court Hotel’s décor by designers at Dunn & Sonnier, including a 19 ½ foot Christmas tree with over 25,000 white lights and a classic toy train around the base. An additional 10 trees with more than 3,000 ornaments and six-foot magnolia wreaths and magnolia garland are also on display in the lobby. Children can write Letters to Santa and deposit in the lobby mailbox, according to Director of Sales & Marketing Megan Uram, and the hotel is encouraging guests and locals of all ages to drop off gift wish lists and take in the sights. This year,

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

the hotel and hang their wishes on the tree in the lobby. Those who’d like to make their wishes public can post @WindsorCourt with the hashtag #WindsorWishes, and the hotel will share and repost their favorites. The Ritz-Carlton - Known in recent years for a giant gingerbread creation, the RitzCarlton will definitely not be disappointing this year with their presentation of the “S. S. Bingle,” a gingerbread tugboat named in honor of the beloved Maison Blanche mascot Mr. Bingle (The Ritz-Carlton is located at the old Maison Blanche building). When you arrive, head on up to the 3rd floor, where you’ll see the S. S. Bingle decorated with candy and a sculpture of glass ornaments that’s really unique and beautiful, according to Director of

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Communications Annie Jones. Decorations are all around, including outside on the courtyard (I personally love to take pictures with the lighted snowflakes). If you have children, Jones encourages you to check out the calendar of events online where you’ll find other events that promote holiday cheer, including tea with Papa Noel and gingerbread building classes.

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thing the other hotels don’t: the Carousel Bar. This year, the Carousel Bar will be participating in Réveillon on the Rocks, where they will be offering some special holiday cocktails. This is an excellent stop to add on to your itinerary if you don’t have the kids in tow. Don’t forget to stop at Cafe Du Monde or Cafe Beignet before or after, because it’s not a New Orleans holiday event without coffee and beignets! If you have older kids

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or kids-at-heart, you can start at a local bar and make your way down (and back) via streetcar. Local marketer Stephanie Schneller has the greatest date idea: start at Wit’s Inn with a pizza and a cocktail, make your way down on the streetcar, and then rendez-vous back at Wits (or The Rendezvous even) to have a nightcap. Make it extra special with a traditional New

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Hotel Monteleone Hotel Monteleone - Adorned with lights and poinsettias throughout the lobby, the Monteleone will be a little extra beautiful at Christmas. Though this holiday display might not be as massive as some of the others, the Hotel Monteleone has one

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

Orleans Christmas drink like a Brandy Milk Punch, Grasshopper, or Creole Eggnog. We’ve all had kind of a crappy year, so this is truly the best time to make things merry and bright! Don’t forget to share your holiday photos with us @WhereYatNOLA!

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'TIS THE SEASON TO BE A KID! Here’s to a Kid-Friendly NOLA Christmas By Kimmie Tubre

Whether you’re holly, jolly, naughty, or nice, no one can put you in the holiday spirit like a kid during Christmas.

CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS City Park Let’s start with a New Orleans tradition. Celebration in the Oaks is a Christmas extravaganza. Located in City Park, it is the park's largest fundraiser and has been dazzling us since the 1980s. This year, the celebration will include both the driving experience as well as the Carousel Garden experience. While attending, your holiday cuties will be able to venture into the park to see the stunning light exhibits along with enjoying treats, sites, and entertainment along the way. NOLA CHRISTMASFEST New Orleans Convention Center Ice-skating, Santa, carnival rides, and more. Your little prancers will be sure to enjoy NOLA ChristmasFest. With everything to celebrate the holiday season, this fest is loads of fun for all ages. From December 17-30 (excluding the 23rd and 24th),

attendees can enjoy delicious food, sweets, and drinks, as well as a gingerbread village, a carousel, a stunning tree exhibit, and, of course, their famous indoor skating rink. HOLIDAY GINGERBREAD WORKSHOP Red Fish Grill They say workshops are the best place for elves looking for a Christmas activity. In this workshop, your little elf will be making a gingerbread house, learning the techniques of building and decorating a fantastic gingerbread home. This family fun event is pretty popular and available on Sundays from the 5th through the 19th of December. While there, you are encouraged to dine, drink, and enjoy. Along with all of your gingerbread decorating materials, tickets also include a commemorative holiday bell and a virtual keepsake photo. JAZZ BRUNCH WITH SANTA The Court of Two Sisters From December 20-24, your Christmas elves can enjoy a tasty brunch with the mellow sounds of jazz gracing their little pointy ears. This fancy holiday event is held at The Court of Two Sisters and includes a delicious brunch buffet, a small gift, and, of course, a visit with the guest of honor himself, Santa Claus. Selling out quickly, this special holiday brunch is the perfect treat for kids on the nice list.

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

TEDDY BEAR TEA The Roosevelt Hotel Inside the spectacularly and Christmasly decorated Roosevelt Hotel, you will find a holiday tea party experience like none other. Serving up a tasting of holiday dishes, teas, and pastries, children are greeted by Mr. and Mrs. Claus as they indulge in all of the fun. Is tea the only beverage, you ask? Of course not. Moms and dads have not been forgotten. While your Christmas cuties enjoy their treats, parents can enjoy as much sparkling wine and mimosas to fill their hearts’ desires. Visit their website to see select dates. KIDS MASTERCLASS: BÛCHE DE NOËL Southern Food & Beverage Museum Okay, this one is pretty specific, but also pretty cool. Who doesn’t love a good Bûche de Noël? Yum! On December 4 at the Southern Food & Beverage Museum, kids will work in groups to create the delicious holiday classic. Starting with the sponge cake, this masterclass will teach each part from filling the treat to decorating it. This fun holiday event will surely be a joyful time for your little reindeer. CAROLING IN JACKSON SQUARE French Quarter Each year, folks from all around bring themselves and their families out for a lovely night of singing all of our holiday

favorites. On December 19, join the others as they participate in a longstanding tradition of caroling in Jackson Square. Yes, this event is free and kid friendly. So grab some hot cocoa and enjoy a night of singing with your kiddos, family, and friends. CHRISTMAS IN THE OUTLYING PARISHES While New Orleans is a fantastic place for kids to experience Christmas, there are other events near the city that are certainly worth experiencing. If you're looking for a parade outside of the city, you can find one in Slidell and in Ponchatoula. There is a very Merry Christmas Spectacular in Mandeville and so much more. Don’t be afraid to venture off and explore. There are many ways for kids to celebrate the holiday season in the city as they count down the days until the mystical Kris Kringle arrives. While this article lists a few fun things, these aren't the only kid friendly Christmas events for them to enjoy. Things as simple as family and friend gatherings, decorating, holiday baking, driving around to see lights, and visiting beautifully lit streets around the city are all spectacular Christmas events. This is simply the time of year to be in the spirit, enjoy, and make those Christmas cuties, elves, prancers, and kiddos happy.

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This joyous time of year is the perfect time to share all of the delights and magic that the season brings. Despite the rare citing of a white Christmas in the Big Easy, the spirit of the holidays is around the city all season. With the “12 days” quickly arriving, here are some of the city’s most spectacular kid friendly events to enjoy as they count down the days until the mystical Kris Kringle arrives.

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

IT TAKES A WALL TO

The Walls Project Improves Communities By Greg Roques

COURTESY WALLS MEDIA PROJECT

Stroll down any hip neighborhood blossoming with commercial and social opportunities and you will likely see portraits of its character expressed in colorful, highly visible public murals.

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

OPEN A DOOR

Throughout Louisiana and Beyond Once viewed as a sign of rebellion, street art – real estate’s equivalent of a tattoo – are now hallmarks of growing millennial cosmopolitan communities. But, like tattoos, this wasn’t always the case – it was once a clear “do not enter” sign for a dangerous neighborhood. This perception was largely an aftermath of the Broken Window Theory. Conceived in the 80s, it hypothesized that if a person walks through a neighborhood and sees a broken window, they will assume that no one cares…soon, another broken window pops up, followed by another, slowly crashing down into a cycle of vandalism and violent crime. The concept was the basis for the

WhereYat.com | December 2021

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C ON S E C U

infamous, early 90s New York City crime purge, which singled-out graffiti as a crucial catalyst with a strict zero-tolerance policy. Countless sociological studies have since disproven the Broken Window Theory. However, nothing repudiates street art’s (or post-graffiti, if you will) role as succinctly as an email sent to renowned artist Banksy republished in his 2006 collection Wall and Piece; the submission decries skyrocketing property values in East London as a direct result of his signature vandalism. Street art’s power to revitalize neighborhoods is not restricted to major metropolitan areas at the hands of international brand-name artists. Here in Louisiana, Baton Rouge-based the Walls Project is proving that showing how much a community cares can start with an empowering work of public art. What started in 2012 as a means of generating tourism and local pride by encouraging artists to paint murals on outdoor walls in downtown Baton Rouge has grown into a full-throttle conductor for community reactivation. Expanding its vision into blight remediation, education and urban farming initiatives, the Walls Project has since partnered with more than 200 community organizations to inspire and revitalize underinvested neighborhoods throughout our state and beyond. “We still love to paint,” Casey Phillips, executive director and co-creator of the Walls Project, said. “However, we now use

POI

NTS

Nola

New Orleans’ always growing public art scene would not be what it is today without the work of the NOLA Mural Project. The group’s ACLU-represented victory in the case of Neal Morris v. City of New Orleans eliminated a local ordinance requiring property owners to submit a $500 fee and months of paperwork and

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public art as a means of building community trust to earn the right to work with our Future Funds and urban farming programs, and other services to directly help under served areas.” Indeed, the Walls Project’s nearly 130 murals have opened many doors over the past decade. For example, its Future Funds program has trained more than 3,000 adults, veterans, and teens in software development and digital photography. More than 95% of these students come from low-to-moderate income households; 75% are female and nearly 90% are African American, both demographics severely underrepresented in the tech space. Furthermore, its Baton Roots community farm at Baton Rouge’s Howell Park has produced more than 40,000 servings of fresh food for East Baton Rouge residents, and its blight remediation efforts— including its annual MLK Fest—have cleared 180 tons of trash from streets and vacant

properties and reactivated six miles of blighted commercial corridors. Like everyone, the Walls Project faced significant barriers to its operations these past two years as result of COVID-19. Seeing that other community organizations were scrambling to address the needs of the communities during the beginning of the pandemic and state shutdown, it organized perhaps its most significant endeavor to date: the OneRouge coalition. “In March 2020, we began hosting weekly Zoom calls to connect non-profit, municipal, and business leaders to navigate the challenges of COVID—especially for our brothers and sisters living below the poverty line,” Phillips said. “The calls became known as the OneRouge community, where the mayor, governor, and even US Congress members could listen in to connect resources to needs on the ground in communities that needed it most.” Specifically, these needs revolved around

TOP, FROM LEFT: WALLS MEDIA PROJECT (3)

Design Building (LSU’s Campus), Baton Rouge

Mural Project

bureaucratic review before commissioning a mural. Prior to this ruling, the group originally formed to pair wall owners with artists at no charge while helping both navigate these draconian local policies. Though seemingly no longer active since defeating the unfair laws it was formed to

fight—its last Instagram post on July 16, 2019 following the aforementioned court ruling signed off with, “Not sure what is to come for the NMP. Open to suggestions,” and a representative could not be reached for this article. A map of their owner/artist assisted murals can still be found on their website.

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Community Project economic and workforce development, access to education, food insecurity, and social services for the working poor. To drive awareness to these causes, the public arts arm of the Walls Project commissioned a series of murals addressing each of the Nine Drivers of Poverty—a series of criteria for assessing, identifying, and providing solutions for poverty created by the Walls Project and its partners. To continue to provide educational access during this time, its Future Funds programs began offering remote learning curriculums. While the Walls Project currently has plans lined up for roughly a half-dozen cities throughout Louisiana, as well projects in Denver and Dallas, no initiatives are currently scheduled for New Orleans. Phillips credits this primarily to New Orleans’ already thriving public art scene; however, he also concedes that early efforts to work in New Orleans this past decade were suppressed by “local politics” (see sidebar).

Festival of Service Still, the Walls Project has much to owe to the Crescent City. It has employed a number of New Orleans artists, including muralists Ceaux and Brent Houzenga, for its public art projects. Likewise, Baton Roots was inspired by a collaboration with the Broad Community Connections’ ReFresh project. Phillips emphasized that the Walls Project would love to partner with local organizations in New Orleans should the opportunity present itself. As the New Year approaches, the Walls Project looks forward to making inroads to improve communities one wall at a time. “The Walls pivot [from strictly art into community improvement] wasn’t done out of vision, but rather instinct and a collective dissatisfaction with the impact we were making in our community,” Phillips said. “The challenges are too many to count, but successes are all the individuals and families we have been able to partner with to get resources where they need to be.”

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FA LA LA LOUISIANA Holiday Traditions Around the State Kathy Bradshaw

Christmas is all about traditions. During the holidays, there are certain rituals that we repeat every year. We deck the halls. We hang the stockings with care. Santa Claus comes to town. There are even some people out there who know what wassailing is.

Of course, not everyone celebrates Christmas in quite the same way, and in Louisiana, we have our own special set of holiday traditions. There’s Père Noël and lights at the Roosevelt, eggnog daiquiris and oyster dressing, Bingle and bonfires. It’s too hot outside to dash through the snow. Grandma’s more likely to be run over by a streetcar. Flaming rum in Bananas Foster is our idea of making spirits bright. And many Louisianans look at Christmas as merely a stepping stone to crawfish season and Mardi Gras. Here’s a look at several Louisiana holiday traditions and how they came to be.

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Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

ROUX AWAKENING Back in the 18th century, the French had a habit of eating foie gras and oysters after midnight and gorging themselves on up to 13 desserts before the sun came up. These late-night food fests on Christmas Eve were extravagant dinners comprised of a range of rich foods. Religious in origins, this overeating practice came about

because Catholics would fast all of Christmas Eve Day to honor the birth of the baby Jesus. But Catholics can be just as hungry as they are devout, so as soon as they got out of midnight mass, it was time to indulge. Their ritualized face-stuffing became known as réveillon, which roughly translates to “awakening,” because they had to stay awake most of the night in order to shovel all that food in. Like many other French traditions, réveillon made its way to New Orleans. In the 1800s, fasting New Orleanians sat in Christmas Eve church services, stomachs rumbling during the quiet parts, while visions of their forthcoming gumbo danced in their heads. Even if you were the type to fall asleep during the sermon, réveillon dinner was a meal worth waking up for. Nowadays, réveillon is a New Orleans dining-out tradition involving multiple gluttonous courses served in rapid succession, often for under 50 bucks. The entire month of December, many New Orleans restaurants offer réveillon prix fixe menus, where the approximate

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number of calories consumed is only exceeded by the number of locals who partake. And you don’t have to wait until after midnight mass to get one of these meals—in fact, you’ll need to get your réveillon dinners during regular restaurant hours. But if you really have your heart set on eating during the wee hours, you can always warm up your leftovers. BIRDS OF A FEATHER ROAST TOGETHER Another local tradition is that of eating turducken: that beloved turkey/duck/ chicken trifecta that graces many a Louisiana table during the holidays. This triple stack of poultry goodness is made up of three birds nesting, one inside the other. Sometimes three’s a crowd. The turducken is a chicken stuffed inside a duck that’s been crammed inside a turkey. Talk about a strange bird. The entire birdy conglomerate is then cooked,

served, and eaten as a single fusion of fowl—but it’s guaranteed to be three times the fun. The animal layering process that produces such unusual meat hybrids is known as engastration. A little bird told us that the late chef Paul Prudhomme is credited with creating the original potpourri of poultry. He killed three delicious birds with one stone in more ways than one when he invented this white-meat triptych, trademarked its name in 1986, and forever earned Louisiana renown as the birthplace of the world-famous turducken. Now, just in time for the holidays, get your ducks in a row—or pack them with a chicken and shove them into a turkey—cook a turducken, and your friends and family will flock to the table. PLAYING WITH FIRE In St. James Parish every Christmas Eve, the levees are all lit up like a Christmas tree. For miles along the Mississippi River,

ALL PHOTOS: KATHY BRADSHAW

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been naughty and don’t make the cut, the misbehaved. Madame Grands Doigts uses worst they risk is foregoing the Lego set those boney fingers to pinch their toes of their dreams or, in exceptional cases, (sometimes pulling them right off), grab awakening to a stocking full of coal. them by the scruff of the neck, or stuff In Louisiana Cajun and Creole cultures, them in her sack. She might even eat however, the stakes are considerably them. Some people believe that Madame higher. This is because Madame Grands Grands Doigts wears a fashionable necklace Doigts, or “Madam Long Fingers,” arrives of little children’s dismembered toes around on New Year’s Eve. For the good kids, she her neck. It’s enough to scare the Cajun leaves fruit, candy, trinkets, or coins, either children into virtuousness all year round. in their stockings or in their shoes, which They’d better be good, for goodness’ sake. have been purposely left out for her arrival. In some Cajun communities, it’s not She makes use of her long, boney fingers Madame Grands Doigts who comes to visit to shove goodies all the way to the very New Year’s Eve, but someone known as La end of the good children’s shoes—thus Christine. She likewise leaves small goodies giving new meaning to the expression and sweets, but minus the toe-snatching “goodie two shoes.” and sack o’ naughty children. VBR21-08 Y'atwho Holiday Jr Page Print Ad_FINAL.pdf 11/17/21 PM But woe to theWhere children have La Christine4is most likely1:24 a custom

that the Cajuns adapted long ago from German settlers in Louisiana, a variation of the German word Christkind, meaning Christ Child. Initially, Christkind brought gifts to German children on Christmas Eve, an early version of today’s Santa Claus and possibly where our term “Kris Kringle” comes from. Other traditional New Year’s Eve visitors to Cajun and Creole households include Le Petit Bonhomme Janvier, or “The Little January Man,” and Papa l’An, or “Father Year.” Like the others, he showers good little boys and girls with trinkets, candies, and even fireworks. And for the bad kids, he’s known to steal back their previously delivered Christmas gifts to return them to Santa. Or Amazon.

MERRY &

as many as 200 bonfires burn while people gather round, eat gumbo, guzzle eggnog, and hold fireside chats. Depending on who you ask, the bonfires are meant to light the way for either Papa Noël, the passing riverboats, or Christians on their way to midnight mass. This Louisiana Christmas tradition most likely came over with the French and German immigrants who first settled in Louisiana. It dates back thousands of years to the Celts who lived in Europe long before there was even a Christ in Christmas. During the winter and summer solstices, they’d build giant bonfires to worship the sun in the hopes C of prolonging their crop-growing seasons. The Christmas Yule log is a vestige of these M winter solstice fires of long ago. Y Over a century ago, people first began making these bonfires in Louisiana by CM burning anything they had on hand, such MY as used shipping crates, scrap wood, and old tires. But they soon came under fire CY for polluting the environment, and now CMY no one’s burning rubber anymore. These days, they cut willow logs and branches K with chainsaws, neatly stack them into a pyramid shape covered with cane reeds from the river, add fuel to the fire—diesel is the combustible of choice—and watch it burn. Some people choose to branch out with their branches and make creatively shaped bonfires, formed like such things as airplanes and alligators. It takes as much as a month to complete construction of one of these fiery creations. In recent years, bonfires have become the hottest thing to do at Christmas, and there’s even a bonfire festival in Lutcher. Everyone gets really fired up about these festivities, and thousands come from all over the world just to see the famous bonfires. In one year alone, approximately 40,000 people came out, drawn like moths to the flames. GOING TOE-TO-TOE If Santa checks his Nice List twice and discovers that certain boys and girls have

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

…are Fewer Calories By Celeste Turner

'Tis the season for holiday eating, so don’t forget to set your scales back 10 pounds. You may laugh, but it’s no joke. Typically, the average adult gains between one to two-and-a-half pounds within the six-week period from Thanksgiving to New Year's.

Although gaining a pound or two may seem like a small price to pay for the holiday indulgence, research shows that the additional poundage may become problematic when you never lose that holiday padding. So, is it possible to celebrate the holiday season without packing on the pounds? “Cutting calories at your Christmas and Thanksgiving meal is simple,” Leslie Hoffman, a well-known New Orleans fitness expert who developed and hosted the national award-winning show Get Fit With Leslie, said. “What works for me is eating organic fruits and vegetables in their whole state.” HOFFMAN ALSO OFFERED THESE THREE NOTABLE SUGGESTIONS: 1. Skip the sugary, fried and oily food. Rather, compliment your meal with drinking water with added lemon.

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

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these “mindless calories” can add up.

2. When you feel hungry at a party or family gathering and need a snack, have a small handful of unsalted healthy nuts like walnuts, cashews, chestnuts, or almonds.

3. Grab a healthy snack, especially if you haven’t eaten in a long period of time. It’s best not to go to a party or dinner gathering when you’re over-hungry. Be sure to hydrate to prevent over-consumption.

3. Be the one that brings fresh cut vegetables and healthy dip to the party, or a plate of fresh fruits with yogurt dip. “You will walk away at the end of the party feeling really good about yourself and others will too,” Hoffman said. Surviving the holidays guilt-free takes strategic planning and mindful eating, according to Danielle Paciera, LDN, RN, CCN, a local board-certified, registered, and licensed integrative nutritionist. “Approach the holiday table with a purpose,” Paciera, who has been in private practice for 20 years, said. “While you’re at a party, don’t stand and socialize next to the food table. It is too tempting. When you are looking at the table, decide what you are going to eat, not just grab and go. Think it through and keep it balanced.” PACIERA’S TOP THREE TIPS FOR HOLIDAY EATING AND DRINKING: 1. Plan everything around protein and produce. At least half the plate should be filled with vegetables; real veggies, not cream vegetables. 2. If you feel full, take the rest of your meal to go and eat it as leftovers. “You have 21 meals in a week, so there are plenty of opportunities to snack on your favorite foods later,” Paciera said. 3. Pace yourself with the alcoholic drinks. Start with water and plan to drink a bottle of water in between cocktails. An alternative to a holiday alcoholic drink may include La Croix or Pellegrino with a few cranberries and orange slices for decoration.

Yes, it is possible to avoid the extra pounds during the holidays with the proper choices, according to Blythe Peters, RDN, LDN, a local registered and licensed dietician with 30 years of experience. “After we all have been through like the pandemic and the constant stress of daily life, you do have the power to choose wisely at the holiday table,” Peters said. “Don’t skip your favorite foods, but go in with a plan, make the best choices, and watch your portion size.” PETER’S LEADING THREE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HEALTHY HOLIDAY EATING: 1. Balance your plate with good protein. Fill your plate with lean protein, fresh vegetables and fruits, and more specifically fiber-rich carbohydrates. If you are aching for oyster dressing or cornbread stuffing, then serve yourself a small portion. 2. Be mindful of desserts and alcoholic beverages. Be aware of what you are putting in your mouth, because

The best advice, of course, is to try and stick to your normal regimen of a healthy diet and consistent exercise in order to prevent the extra holiday pounds. Keeping up with your daily workouts may not make you lose weight, but it may offset some of the inflammation and blood sugar spikes that accompany over-eating. “A great way to maintain fitness is to walk at a brisk pace for at least 30 minutes in the morning and evening,” Hoffman, who is also president of Certain Image, Inc. and creator of the “Get Fit Kids Corner,” a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting child obesity and encouraging healthy lifestyles, advised. “Energize yourself by taking a walk first thing in the morning, take a brisk walk at lunch and get together with friends in the neighborhood, and walk in the evening. If you have a stairwell, make a point to use it every day. You will be surprised how fast it will build your cardiovascular and leg strength.” Hoffman also encouraged strength training a couple of times a week. She mentioned that a good alternative to weight training may be Pilates or yoga. “Stretching before bed is ideal for relaxation and lymphatic drainage,” Hoffman said. So, instead of throwing all the healthy behaviors out the window from October to December and swearing to start a healthy plan come January, take steps to prepare for the obligations and temptations during this holiday season. You can still enjoy your favorite occasional indulgences, but in moderation. It’s all about being mindful of what you eat and not mindless eating.

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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS? Where Y’at Writers Give Picks for a Christmas Movie Marathon

By Jeff Boudreaux

Gather in front of a large, flatscreen TV (or streaming device of your choice) with a bottomless cup of spirit-preserved eggnog and check out the Where Y’at staff’s picks for our favorite holiday movies!

for Christmas!” A huge box office hit upon release; this delightful “screwball” comedy was just what America needed in time for the holidays after four long years of war. (Jeff Boudreaux)

Christmas in Connecticut (1945) – Pretending to be someone else from behind a keyboard did not arise in the social media era, as this post-WWII classic proves to us. America’s favorite literary “housewife” Elizabeth Lane (played by screen legend Barbara Stanwyck) is forced by her publisher (the ever-irascible Sydney Greenstreet) into cooking a fabulous Christmas dinner for a returning war hero (Dennis Morgan) at her beautiful, New England farmhouse. The truth? City-dweller Lane has never cooked or kept a home one day in her life! The words of the film’s trailer lay out the ensuing farce perfectly: “When Santa Claus brings a bachelor girl…a sweetheart, a husband, and two babies

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – I’ve seen this film many times and Clarence the Guardian Angel’s final inscription to George Bailey of “no man is a failure who has friends” still gives me the chills. It’s one of the kindest, most empathetic films ever made. Also Eyes Wide Shut (1999) gets an honorable mention here because Stanley Kubrick’s tale of sexual jealousy and marital strife is the most awkward Christmas movie you could watch with your family on Christmas Day, and the thought of that makes me laugh so I’m including it. (Fritz Esker)

We’re No Angels (1955) – This Christmas flick is one of Humphrey Bogart’s rare comedic turns—and a brilliant dark comedy,

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

We're No Angels

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Christmas in Connecticut

So, it’s Christmastime in New Orleans…while some other places in the world may consider themselves fortunate to experience the picturesque, traditional yuletide holiday complete with falling snow, crackling fireplaces, and abundant carolers, here in the Crescent City, we will brave the (possibly) cooler temperatures and continue to celebrate Santa’s impending arrival the only way we know how.

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it is! Bogie is one of three convicts (along with Peter Ustinov and Aldo Ray) who break out of prison on Devil’s Island in French Guiana right before the holidays. It’s not giving anything away to say that the humor and sentimentality expected in a Christmas film leads to their antagonists being vanquished (with the help of the convicts' pet viper), but not before they make a positive difference in the lives of a family for which they develop a deep affection. The criminals discover an unrealized humanity in themselves, ultimately doing the “right thing” just in time for the New Year. With biting wit, double entendres, and uniting Bogart and Basil Rathbone as foils, this classic film makes for a fun, albeit dark-humored, romp, until the halos pop up in the finale. (Robert Witkowski) Die Hard (1988) – Welcome to the party, pal! Is it really Christmas time without witnessing John McClane take back Nakatomi Plaza from Hans Gruber and his band of German radical terrorists? McClane (Bruce Willis) methodically thwarts Gruber’s

men time and again on Christmas Eve, trying to save the hostages, including his estranged wife, and get back home to his children to celebrate Christmas. It’s a story of courage, family, and beautifully delivered one-liners. By the end of this holiday thrillride, all you can do is stand up and shout, “Yippee-Ki-Yay!” (Andrew Alexander) Batman Returns (1992) – Ever since die-hard Die Hard fans petitioned to have the 80s classic christened a holiday film, debates have raged over the criteria for Christmas-movie categorization. Tim Burton’s dark, fairy-tale take on the Dark Knight meets all the yuletide prerequisites: 1) Gotham City is coated in snow and holiday flare. 2) Batman and Catwoman constantly connect under the mistletoe. 3) Greedy businessman Max Shrek is an Ebenezer Scrooge clone, while Penguin, an outcast who robs families on Christmas eve, copies the Grinch. 4) The film closes with Bruce Wayne and Alfred wishing each other a Merry Christmas. (Greg Roques)

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: 20TH CENTURY; UNIVERSAL; PARAMOUNT PICTURES

It's a Wonderful Life

"Mistletoe is deadly if you eat it." "And a kiss is even deadlier if you mean it." –Batman and Catwoman (aka. Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle) exchange Christmas flirtations in Batman Returns

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Love Actually (2003) – The premise: flustered Londoners navigate love in the time of Christmas as their lives intertwine in hilarious and meaningful ways. The presents: it’s saccharine. It’s a rom-com. But it's fun. And none of the copycat, holiday-themed rom-coms can compare. The soundtrack is amazing, including an excellent usage of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” The ensemble cast of famous Brits and the surprise cameos are dazzling, including Alan Rickman (RIP). The ending: there are different kinds of love. Actually. (Andrew Marin) Tokyo Godfathers (2003) – An animated Japanese film by the late auteur Satoshi Kon, Tokyo Godfathers follows three homeless individuals in Tokyo during Christmas Eve who, after finding an abandoned baby in a garbage heap, decide to set off on a journey to reunite it with its parents. This movie has a unique mix of comedy, tragedy, and adventure, all set against a Christmas backdrop. But what

makes this movie are the lead characters. They all have such unique personalities, and you feel for them when they have to confront their personal demons throughout the story. It really is a heartwarming movie that’s perfect for the holiday season. (Burke Bischoff) …And what about all those cheesy madefor-TV Christmas movies? Through all of November and December, Lifetime plays these films around the clock. And Hallmark and hot chocolate is the holiday version of Netflix and chill. These movies are predictable and obnoxiously cutesy— warmer and fuzzier than a reindeer’s belly. Their storyline never changes: it’s always some Christmas-ed up variation of your usual boy-meets-girl story. Like, boy meets girl, and they hook up after drinking too much eggnog. Or attractive mall Santa meets mistletoe farmer’s daughter at a gingerbread bake-off. They’re all sappy romances sprinkled with Christmas cookies and holiday cheer. And I’m addicted. (Kathy Bradshaw)

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ELEVATING BEAUTY

Speaking with the First Black Woman in Louisiana with NFL & NBA Makeup Partnerships By Kayla Connor

“This is not just a hustle for me. I always put in 150% in each wedding that I do and each client that I have,” Dee Rouzan said. Who is Dee? Think of her as your Makeup Godmother and her Faces of Virtue company as the ultimate glam squad. She and her team are responsible for not only playing a huge part in her bridal clients' fairy tale day, but also behind the glamorous faces of the Saintsations and Pelicans entertainment squads. Being the first Black woman in Louisiana to have beauty partnerships with both the NFL and NBA, while also being a 7x consecutive winner of The Knot’s “Best of Weddings” and now an inductee in their Hall of Fame, are accomplishments that should not go unnoticed. When asked what it means to hold these titles, her response was, “It’s an accomplishment that I thought wasn't attainable, especially being Black. Starting off in the industry the way that I did, I didn't think it was attainable at that point. But the more that I perform weddings, the more I realize there’s a missing piece in the service industry. That’s delivering a great product and customer service. I’ve been married for 27 years and believe in the institution of marriage. This is not a hustle for me. If it was I wouldn't care and be like, ‘Ok! Next one!’ So while I didn't think it was attainable at that time, now I just expect it.” Expecting certain titles comes from years of providing great service and creating memorable experiences. Her studio alone would entice you to keep coming back. The beautifully toned and New York inspired design creates an ambiance that ensures you'll keep booking her and her team’s services. As the founder and CEO of Faces of Virtue, Dee Rouzan understands and appreciates what having a great team on your side can do.

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

Dee Rouzan

ALL IMAGES COURTESY DEE ROUZAN

In a world where “hustle culture” has become a new way of working, we see many service providers who get so lost in that hustle that their passion is suppressed. When the passion isn't showcased, clients start to feel more like a number rather than a person who is paying for a luxury service and experience.

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WY: Every makeup artist has their specialty—what is yours? Dee: As a brand, we specialize in makeup and weddings and, of course, we are the partners for the Saintsations and Pelicans Entertainment Squads. We focus on more natural makeup; an “elevated” level of beauty. This is what the brand is essentially based around as opposed to “transformation.” My cliental looks for more elevation to still look like themselves so their fiancée still recognize them when they come down the aisle. Now for the partnerships, we have to do more stage makeup. I still want to stay away from the word “transformation” because when I design the looks, it’s never harsh, but still an elevation of the client.”

Stacey Abrams

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

WY: Being the first Black makeup company to have partnerships with the NBA and NFL in Louisiana is a huge accomplishment. How did that happen? Dee: The person who helped me use to partner with the Pelicans. Her company was going through a transition and she recommended me. A year later, I approached the Saintsations but didn't get an immediate response. So I waited, and the Saintsations also went through a transition and the person who had the Pelicans squad also inherited the Saintsations. They then asked me, and I immediately accepted. WY: How do you sustain it? Dee: My team helps me to sustain it. If I didn't have my team to help me with this venture, I would not be able to do half of the things I do. It's a team

Thasunda Duckett

American politician, attorney, and voter rights activist who served as Minority Leader in the Georgia House of State Representatives was enhanced by Rouzan.

Current President and CEO of a Fortune 100 company, TIAA, and former CEO of Chase Bank called upon Rouzan's talents.

WY: What makes Faces of Virtue unique and what does it mean to you? Dee: Faces of Virtue prides itself on many things. Our tagline is, “We’re playing a small part in your big day.” We’re not regular makeup artists; we’d be on the floor bustling dresses. Whatever it takes to make that day seamless. I know it’s a lot of emotions and high energy that’s going on during that time.

of talented makeup artists that assist with the partnerships that helps it be successful. It’s a big weight, but it’s not overwhelming because I love what I do and I love the teams.

WY: What drew you to the bridal world? Dee: Fun story! I first started with my own makeup 27 years ago, but I approached my best friend right after Katrina and said we should go into wedding planning. Makeup would just be an extension of that. Because she was an introvert, she didn't think it would be the best decision as far as attracting business. For me, I already had Faces of Virtue as a subsidiary of that. If she wouldn't have said no, I don't think I

would’ve been able to pour into my brand. By her saying no, it allowed me to say yes.

WY: In your field, who inspired you? Dee: I’m a member of the Powder Group, a community of beauty artists that focuses on “craft and career, artistry, and community personal and professional development.” The founder, Michael DeVellis, inspired me to reach within myself to pull out more greatness. I attended one of the summits where I was able to hear him speak. At the time I was doing everything from avant-garde to makeup. He posed the question, “What makes your adrenaline pump? You have to do what makes your adrenaline pump.” I really had to think. But I knew that it was bridal. WY: Carnival season has been on pause

FROM LEFT: ALL IMAGES COURTESY DEE ROUZAN; COURTESY WINKINTEL.COM

She knows that her business thrives because of how well she and her team listen to their clients and execute their vision, while providing an environment that is lively.

for the last two years, but we know it’s a staple season for local artists. Are you part of a Krewe? Dee: No, I’m not a part of a Krewe. But I do feel like I’m a part of the Faces of Virtue Krewe because every year is a production. Now that I am named the Royal Makeup Artist for Queen Zulu, it’s going to be another production. All we need is our own float. In a sense, we do have our own version of floats: the line of cars dropping off and picking up everyone preparing for the parades.

AWARD BLOOD WINNING Y MARY S

WY: From your perspective, what do you enjoy looking for or doing during Mardi Gras season? Dee: I enjoy the camaraderie of it all. So many people book us for services during Mardi Gras and they're from all over the United States. I love seeing repeat clients every year. I look forward to the reunion of family and friends and catching the parades to see my work. No face is ever the same. Each year I have curated

Ava DuVernay First black woman nominated for a Golden Globe as Best Director and for an Academy Award for Documentary Feature experienced Rouzan's skills personally.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS / USBOTSCHAFTBERLIN

designs, so I get that same excitement every year. WY: Being a successful self-made woman is such an inspiration. What advice would you give to up-and-coming aspiring artists, people of color, or entrepreneurs? Dee: I would say definitely education and mentorship. Find a great mentor who doesn't mind sharing and pouring into you. When I first started, no one would help me. I try to make sure I make myself available to help those up-andcoming artists and entrepreneurs do better. Push them to greatness! I’m that person who pushes you to be the next best thing because I see it in you. I just need to get it out of you. Now that you’ve got a look into who Dee Rouzan is and what her beloved Faces of Virtue team offers, visit Faces of Virtue’ website to learn more! Or stop by their studio located in the Lower Garden District at 434 Terpsichore St.

Come visit any of our 7 locations: Daisy Dukes 121 Chartres St. French Quarter

Daisy Dukes Cafe 308 St. Charles Ave. CBD

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Daisy Dukes 2244 Veterans Blvd. Kenner

Daisy Dukes 5209 W. Napoleon Ave. Metairie

WhereYat.com | December 2021

$20 & UNDER By Kim Ranjbar

Oyster Pie 52

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

A deceptively simple dish, the oyster pan roast is equally at home on your kitchen counter or on a white linen table at a high-end restaurant. Though its origins are far to the northeast in New York City, many local chefs have taken this cozy, winter-time dish and made it their own. After all, there can't be too many ways to enjoy our fresh oysters from the Gulf. It's true that the price of oysters in New Orleans has risen sharply, what with environmental issues like algae blooms and oil spills endangering our beds. Every time a hurricane comes through, most recently Ida, it's not only the oysters that suffer, it's the fishermen. Lost docks, ships, and homes have stalled many distribution channels, but through recovery efforts and good ol' Louisiana grit, slowly but surely, folks are seeing Gulf oysters slide back onto the plate. At the newish neighbor hood restaurant Gris Gris in the Lower Garden District, chef/ owner Eric Cook has an appetizer that's dubbed a pie, but it sure looks like a pan roast to us! Plump, Gulf

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Oyster Gabie

one could argue that the “Oysters Gabie” deserves equal admiration. The eponymous dish features Gulf oysters, artichokes, salty pancetta, green onions, and lemon topped with a Parmesan and breadcrumb crust. Over on Magazine Street, Casamento's has been serving up gorgeous, Gulf oysters in their uniquely tiled-out digs since 1919! Easily one of the go-to spots for shucks, the Uptown spot, just a hop from Ms. Mae's, offers all kinds of seafood from its famed fried oyster “loaf” on buttered and toasted sliced bread to fried calamari and seafood gumbo. Though it's definitely more of soup than a pan roast, their oyster stew is basically whole milk, butter, onions, and parsley…oh, and lots of plump Gulf oysters, of course! At only $6.50 a cup, you can get half a loaf ($9.75) and make it an allmollusk meal. One of the most famous oyster pan roasts in the Greater New Orleans Area are the Oysters Mosca at, well, Mosca's, a Creole-Italian, family-owned spot that's been serving the Westbank for over 75 years. At this small, unassuming eatery, everything is served family-style, so be prepared to wait for huge portions of their famous chicken cacciatore and spaghetti with monster meatballs. The Oysters Mosca are no exception. A “small” portion contains at least a dozen Gulf oysters with lots of butter, olive oil, parsley, garlic, and oregano topped with a breadcrumb Parmesan crust. Though the pan roast at Mosca's will set you back almost $30, this is a dish, and an experience, that is meant to be shared with friends.

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Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

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FROM TOP: COURTESY GABRIELLE; PASCALE'S MANALE

oysters are poached in their own liquor with heavy cream and served with a dollop of whipped potatoes, sauteed leeks, charred artichokes, and fresh tarragon. All one needs is a thick, crusty pisolette or a wellbuttered hunk of New Orleans French bread to help spoon every drop to your mouth. Just a couple of blocks off St. Charles Avenue on Napoleon, the century-old Pascale's Manale, known as the origin of the first New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, also offers a pan roast, but admittedly, it comes off a bit more like a gratin. Their version includes a combination of local seafood—oysters, shrimp, and crab meat—milk, oyster liquor, and flour, mixed with sauteed shallots, parsley, and Worcestershire and topped with buttery breadcrumbs. It's a decadent and creamy shared plate that you'll probably want to keep for yourself. Desperately missed after Hurricane Katrina, folks from near and far rejoiced when Gabrielle Restaurant, a local mainstay on Esplanade Avenue since 1992, finally reopened in the summer of 2019. The beloved spot, owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Greg and Mary Sonnier, relaunched in the Treme neighborhood to much ado and is still, pandemic notwithstanding, holding strong. Diners frequently “ooh” and “aah” over signature dishes such as their dark, rich gumbo or slow-roasted duck in an orange-sherry sauce, but

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

FOOD NEWS It seems nothing can slow down these hardworking, food-loving industry folks. What with the pandemic, Hurricane Ida, labor shortages, and supply-chain shortages, it's downright shocking restaurants are around at all, let alone seeing new ones open up like mussels on the steam! You certainly won't hear us complaining.

By Kim Ranjbar

and reopened as The Will & The Way. With seasoned bartender Tommy Linville behind the stick and Mississippi-born Josh Williams in the kitchen, the Toulouse Street bar has a different flavor, but the same convivial atmosphere. Savor bites of chili trail mix popcorn or Natchitoches meat pies with cocktails like the “Saint Giles Rookery” made with gin, blackberry, Gunpowder Tea and

Piccola Gelateria

Saint John Jammin' on St. Claude … There's now a permanent place to get your jam-on in Bywater! Jam-making queen Sara Levasseur of Jamboree Jams has her own digs at long last, located in the St. Claude Avenue shop that formerly housed Shank Charcuterie. Stock your pantry and get your holiday shopping done early with jar after jar of locally-sourced, fruity flavors like blood orange sumac, blueberry star anise, peach rose geranium, and spicy satsuma. Not only does the shop (and her online store) offer an endlessly creative array of jarred delights, every weekend (their hours are Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.), Jamboree Jams features tasty treats like jelly-filled donuts, potato and leek quiche, apple fritters, pizza pockets with roast tomato and feta, choco-chunk cookies, and soft-serve ice cream. 2532 St. Claude Ave., jamboreejams.co

cardamom. The Will & The Way is open daily until 1 a.m. 719 Toulouse St., thewillandtheway.com

Will & The Way

Kisses from Mexico … Nanyo Dominguez, a Mexican-born chef who's worked in local restaurants like Johnny Sanchez and Tito's Ceviche & Pisco, recently launched his own brick & mortar Bésame on S. Rampart Street. Self-dubbed as “Latinstyle tapas,” this Arts District restaurant, right across the street from the Saenger Theater, offers a colorful cross-section of South American cuisine, from Oaxacan, Gulf fish ceviche with mezcal and roasted guajillo to Colombian arepas with braised pork and chipotle slaw, as well as seafood paella. Headed by New Orleans-born Haley Saucier, the bar program at Bésame stays within theme, creating beverages featuring mezcal, pisco brandy, and rum. 110 S. Rampart St., 504-308-0880, besame-nola.com

busy (and admittedly crowded) Freret Street corridor to their new digs on Magazine Street. Now only a block from the Napoleon/Magazine intersection, this dynamic duo is serving a whole new neighborhood scoops of gelato joy, not that most of them didn't willingly make the trek to their previous location. 4500 Magazine St., 504-493-5999, piccolagelateria.com

Where there's a will … Though fans were crushed a little when LeBlanc + Smith closed their French Quarter gastro pub Movin' on up … At Piccola Gelateria, Longway Tavern, hopes rose again when owners Ross & Ria Turnbull counted the unique space underwent a décor change down the days till they moved from the

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

Culinary revelations … Chef/owner Eric Cook now has two locations where his gastronomic skills are pleasing the hungry masses. After his undeniable success with Gris Gris in the Lower Garden District, Cook has just launched Saint John, a “Haute Creole” restaurant in the French Quarter. Located in the space which was formerly home to the beloved Italian restaurant Maximo's, as well as the shortlived Trinity, Saint John promises simple, country dishes prepared in an “elevated,

When one door closes … Aficionados were bummed out when Long Chim shuttered over the summer, but a new take on Thai has reopened in its place dubbed Pomelo NOLA. Husband-and-wife team Aom Srisuk (no stranger to the industry) and Frankie Weinberg are offering a tidy menu of seasonal Thai dishes like Chicken Massaman with potato, cinnamon, and star anise, as well as Pumpkin Green Curry with coconut milk and keffir lime. Pomelo is open Wednesdays through Sundays. 4113 Magazine St., 504-442-9570, facebook.com/pomeloNOLA Luling goes Latin! … Louisiana-native chef Natasha St. Pierre Clement and business partner Buddy Boe launched Santos in late August, a fusion restaurant featuring “Southern favorites with Latin flavor.” Named after the saints of the river parishes (St. Charles, St. John, and St. James), Santos is an interesting venture considering the other eateries in the area. A riot of flavors can be found on the menu with everything from “pain de maiz,” or cornbread, with hot honey and fried Vidalia onions to shrimp and grits with Mexican street corn grits and bacon jam pico de gallo. 12713 Hwy. 90, Luling, 985-308-0048, santosrestaurantla.com

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY JAMBOREE JAMS; KIM RANJBAR; WILL AND THE WAY

yet approachable way.” Seared Gulf shrimp in remoulade butter with fried green tomatoes and okra chow chow share the menu with dishes like smothered turkey necks and potato salad. The generic jalapeno popper is transformed into a “Bacon Fat Seared Duck Popper” with root beer braised pork belly, fried duck skin, and a satsuma glaze. Must we continue? Visit Saint John Wednesdays through Sundays and discover a few decadently divine mysteries for yourself. 1117 Decatur St., 504-435-5151, saintjohnnola.com

A New Orleans Tradition Since 1913

A pleasurable dining experience is waiting for you. Italian dishes, fresh seafood & delicious steaks. Have your special occasion or business function with us. Private rooms available. Ample off-street parking. Home of the Original BBQ Shrimp

10 Local Food Vendors & a Fast Craft Bar A Part of the Ray and

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WhereYat.com | December 2021

TALES FROM THE QUARTER By Debbie Lindsey

Gifting to the Community

hen did Christmas become so commercial? A long time ago. In fact, those Wise Men were the first to succumb to holiday stress with one really going over-budget when shopping for Little Baby Jesus. And actually, while all the gifts were lovely, there was a bit of dickering as to who would spring for the gold, which was considerably more expensive than frankincense and myrrh. Wouldn’t a baby rattle or a diaper service have been better? Heck, Baby Jesus would have been happy just having some lullabies sung to him while Mary got a nap. Just sayin’. With all that said, I think it is safe to say that we are at a far more commercial point with gifting than yesteryears. And certainly our methods of purchasing presents are seriously compromised right now due to shipping delays world-wide and COVIDrelated staffing shortages. Even before this economic/pandemic cluster-f**k, so much of the sentimentality of gift giving was usurped by conspicuous consumption and the status seeking acquisitions of electronics and overpriced devices. Yeah, nothing says “I Love You” like the newest (really expensive) cell phone-does-everything-short-of-mowingyour-lawn. What happened to bikes you assembled on Christmas Eve, ugly sweaters, ties, and fruitcakes? And this year, even if you go old-school and buy something that doesn’t involve artificial intel to operate, plus a bank loan to fund such purchases, you may not be able to receive the items in time for Christmas if relying upon online shopping. The best Christmas gift Dad gave us was when he suggested we stop exchanging store bought gifts and simply enjoy the holidays. Mom and my sister and I agreed. No more of the obligatory dress for Mom from Dad that always needed to be exchanged the next week for one that fit or suited her. Before the cease fire of gift exchanges, there were years of setting spending caps and cost analyses so that my folks spent equally between their kids (so neither of us felt less loved!) and the caps they gave my sister and me so as not to infringe upon our personal finances and so forth. Well, it was just too damn confusing. Oh the stress reduction of no presents and just good food and drink and the fabulous Christmas tree (of course that tree ritual was fraught with its own set of issues). This new approach to enjoying Christmas without exchanging gifts with family then enabled me to stop the madness of gift buying for friends as that is a rabbit hole in itself. Who gets a present? Best friends? Casual friends? Co-workers? Neighbors? Where do you stop without marginalizing the value of all the folks you know? And horror of horrors—what happens when you give to one and not the other and what if they give you something and there you are all Scroungey and cheap looking with not even a little something with a bow for them? So I just established my standing

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

position of “Debbie doesn’t exchange gifts with family and therefore no one else…so please don’t give a gift to Debbie, pass it on to someone else.” Of course, I always felt obligated to prove I was not cheap, simply high minded about the wastefulness and commercialization of the Holidays, and therefore I spent more money than I could afford buying rounds of drinks or bringing extra “gifts” of wine to Xmas parties, or throwing parties myself. And of course, friends would then bring gifts to me at my party…no escaping the gift-wrapped stress. All this was some years back before I became aware of the economic boost that shopping for gifts bestowed upon small businesses. And of course, having had our (husband and I) own small book shop that depended upon that really put a different light on the Shop Small/Shop Local issue. And this is where I would like to take this opportunity to encourage supporting your local businesses if you are inclined to spend your hard-earned money in the spirit of holiday gift giving. When you buy a present for someone by way of a local merchant, artist, chef, baker, or musician, you are giving not only a “thoughtful something” to someone, you are giving a small business/ enterprise the monetary support it needs to continue to be a part of your community. Win/win for all. And if shopping online or out-of-town, you can still come to the aid of an independent entrepreneur. There are so many ways to play Santa. Add a bow to some fives (20s if flush) and drop them in tip jars. Our hospitality workers and musicians NEED that extra kindness. Same goes for your sanitation guys that interact with all your trash. Be a Santa Tipper! And let’s never forget that there is hunger and loss everywhere— climate disasters and the pandemic have increased the woes of often neglected communities and individuals. Donate money; even small amounts make a difference. Donate blood and save a life. Donate your time and volunteer—there are many ways to give back to your community through various organizations. Honor someone and dedicate your efforts in their name. Send your cat loving friend a Christmas card and a note that you have donated money or your time to an animal rescue group in their name. If you have the holiday spirit, just use your common sense as there is no need to go into debt this season—spend within your means. And whether you procure gifts at a struggling small business, donate time/ money to a cause, or make gift cards for your personalized services (example: good for two hours of house work, baby-sitting, or dog walking), just keep it fun. The gift of companionship beats anything out there on Amazon, and the shipping is free! Let’s all soften the commercialization of Christmas with a commitment to community and compassion. Happy Holidays!

PO-BOY VIEWS By Phil LaMancusa

Santa Lost or Where’s Rudolph?

our streets from where I grew up, there was a placard in the sidewalk that stated that a man named Clement Clark Moore had a farm on that spot. Someone smarter than me, and there were many, informed me that Mr. Moore had penned the poem near and dear to us called The Night Before Christmas, only Mr. Moore called it A Visit From Saint Nicholas. It began: “T’was the night before Christmas and all through the house…” I was amazed that someone in my neighborhood (even if it was in the “once upon a time” time) had actually written my favorite Christmas poem; the poem was so easily read, so easy to remember, so easy to memorize. Most of it I had not a clue to what he was talking about; oh, there were pictures in my books illustrating the passages, and for a kid in the projects, they opened up a fine and fancy fantasy world where all things were possible on Christmas. I got the “not a creature was stirring” bit and the “stockings were hung” because that’s what WE did also, in the same hopes “that Saint Nicholas soon would be here;” however, I for one could not picture myself nestled or snuggled with sugarplums dancing in my head; I was too antsy on Christmas Eve. Add to that, Mama was never in a kerchief, or for that matter, Pops in a cap “settling down for a long winters nap.” Mom was drinking beer, waiting for Pops to get off work and come home with a stolen tree that the Jewish neighbor (on the promise of a bottle of scotch) would trim, and it was “get to bed, ya bastards, or nobody’s getting’ nuthin’ for Christmas” that sent us packing for a long winter’s nap. There was no clatter on the lawn (we had concrete), nor anyone interested in “seeing what was the matter,” but here came the good part, the magic in my brain: “the moon on the breast of the new fallen snow gave the luster of midday to objects below.” WOW, I mean WOW! And “more rapid than eagles his courses they came and he whistled and shouted?” Them first six reindeer’s names I comprehended and the other two I found out, Donner and Blitzen actually are German for thunder and lightning! Wow again! I found myself yelling, “To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!” Here we come, dashing away all. Golly, it takes your breath away; so it slows down so soft and rhythmically “as dry leaves before a hurricane fly when they meet with an obstacle mount to the sky” AND Santa has landed! He makes it down the chimney; he’s covered in ashes (of course!) from head to foot. He’s got toys! A bag of them! He’s laughing and winking; he’s smoking

a pipe, and he’s round and jolly! He has twinkly eyes and dimples; merry dimples. “The beard on his chin was as white as the snow.” How can you not love this guy and leave him cookies and milk? He’s got a belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly, for Christ’s sake! Then he puts his finger on his nose and flies back up the chimney; he springs to his sleigh and gives the guys the whistle and “away they all flew like the down from a thistle” (whatever THAT was). There he goes wishing everyone a happy Christmas and “to all a good night;” how could you not believe? Well, I believe; although Christmas morning wasn’t always a bed of roses, I still believe. I believe that when it was foggy, he had to get a reindeer with a shiny nose. I even believed someone when they told me that Olive was the “other reindeer” who used to laugh and call Rudolph names; question: if you were a reindeer and wanted to laugh and call another reindeer names, what would you say? “I heard you were goin’ down in history?” "I was told you were caught playing stable tennis with an elf.” “Was that you eating Deerios for breakfast?” Poor Rudy, but he showed them! Of course I believe. I also believe in the Easter Bunny, Cupid on Valentine’s Day, Peter Pan, and that pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. I always avoided stepping on cracks for fear of breaking someone’s back; I pick up pennies in the street for luck, and I put my turn signal on when driving even when no one can see. You see, Santa’s watching. He sees me when I’m sleeping and he knows if I’ve been bad or good; and I now am “good, for goodness’ sake.” Of course you know that in times like these, it’s easy to forget the little things that make this world a little bit nicer to live in, like being kind to people that are strangers to you; like being polite; like giving what you have to someone who has less. Listen, Santa lives on because Santa knows that life is a bitch at times, in fact most times, and just the fact that this little fat guy in a red suit with twinkly eyes, round belly, and dimples has a bag of toys for good girls and boys gives us hope that we won’t make that Naughty or Nice List. So what if I didn’t get that machine gun, motorcycle, or airline ticket out of here? I still leave cookies and milk, even if I have to have them for breakfast; Santa’s a busy guy. Wait! Did I just hear the prancing and pawing of hooves on the roof? OR, have the squirrels decided to move back in? Anyway, Happy Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, and don’t forget to go to The Joint for a burger on Boxing Day after you give your stuff away to the needy. Cheers!

Get into the Holiday Spirits

WhereYat.com | December 2021

Bar Guide Alto (Ace Hotel) 600 Carondelet St. 504-900-1180 Banks Street Bar 4401 Banks St. 504-486-0258 Bar Marilou 544 Carondelet St. 504-814-7711

Billards

Alto offers some truly great views of New Orleans. After you’re done chilling in the rooftop pool, order yourself some thirst-quenching cocktails like the Paloma or the Great Ulysses. Banks Street Bar is a true neighborhood bar in Mid-City. While enjoying their beer, chow down on the different traditional Louisiana dishes that they provide like po-boys, gumbo, and oysters. Not only is Bar Marilou very trendy, the food and drinks on offer are fantastic. There are all kinds of fancy sounding drinks to choose from, such as the Jardin De Mémé and the Heloïse.

Providing an upscale experience, Blue Ruin offers beers on tap, craft cocktails, and a great wine list, as well as seasonal craft cocktail and martini menus. Happy hour is on Mondays thru Thursdays. Confectionary Craft Cocktail Bar The Confectionary Craft Cocktail Bar should be included if you and your friends plan on bar hopping through New 727 S. Peters St. Orleans. You’ll find a number of specialty and sweet drinks 504-558-1914 on offer. This bar and grill is a special spot in the Garden District for Down the Hatch delicious and reasonably priced food and drinks. The Hell’s 1921 Sophie Wright Pl. Kitchen Wings are delicious, as well as the many different 504-522-0909 starters, sandwiches, and burgers. Evangeline’s courtyard is perfect for sipping on some of Evangeline the locally craft beers they offer. The Rum Punch and 329 Decatur St. Strawberry Blonde cocktails are also fruity and delicious. 504-373-4852 Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. The Fillmore prides itself in providing legendary experiences Fillmore New Orleans to its patrons. Not only is it the perfect setting for live 6 Canal St. entertainment, the creative food, signature cocktails, and craft 504-881-1555 beer and are all great. House of Blues 225 Decatur St. 310-4999

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 the different beer and cocktails.

Jazz Daiquiris 3400 S. Claiborne Ave., # A 504-899-8761

Jazz Daiquiris & Lounge’s claim to fame are their specialty daiquiris. Choose from a variety of flavors like Pina Colada, Jungle Juice, Blue Magic, Triple Threat, and more.

Jimani 141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493

If you want to see all of the hottest sports action, then you need to go the Jimani. A New Orleans favorite for over 40 years, the bar has over 100 beers that you can choose from! 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. If you’d like to see the next Saints or LSU game on over 30 flat screens, then you have to go to Manning’s Sports Bar. Get into a local sports mood by ordering the Manning’s Mardi Gras Punch. 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 dancefloors, 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.

Manning’s 519 Fulton St. 504-593-8118 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 Pelican Bar (Sheraton) 500 Canal St. 504-525-2500

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. You’ll get a real taste of New Orleans charm while sipping on the Pelican Bar’s specialty cocktails. Grab a bite to eat and make sure to order some red, white, or sparkling wines.

Rendon Inn 4501 Eve St. 504-218-7106

Not only does the Pool Club offer great views of the city, you can also relax in their pool or jam to the sounds provided by their resident DJ. Grab an umbrella drink and enjoy! Rendon Inn has been providing the food, drinks, and good company in Mid-City for over 85 years. Grab some food while enjoying different domestic and draft beers, as well as wine and specialty drinks.

Royal Frenchmen Hotel 700 Frenchmen St., #1614 504-619-9660

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 Hatchet House 1200 Poydras St., Suite C 504-577-2937

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.

The Pool Club 550 Baronne St. 833-791-7700

Tracey’s Irish Channel Bar 2604 Magazine St. 504-897-5413 Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

Live Music

Blue Ruin Speakeasy 3224 Metairie Rd. 504-835-3335

Lots A Luck Tavern 203 Homedale St. 504-483-0978

Dancing

Tropical Isle helps make Bourbon Street so internationally famous. Everyone knows that if you go to Tropical Isle, you gotta get a Hand Grenade, aka New Orleans’ "most powerful drink."

LOGO & BACKGROUND IMAGE COURTESY GRAND MARNIER

4400 Banks Street | BanksStreetBarNola.com |

Drink Food Specials

WhereYat.com | December 2021

OKTOBERFEST AT DEUTSCHES HAUS

Everyone enjoyed doing “The Chicken Dance” at Oktoberfest at Deutsches Haus.

OUT & ABOUT WITH ROMAN HARPER DAY AT SAINTS HALL OF FAME PARTY

From left: Roman Harper and wife Heather Haukaas celebrate his induction into the Saints Hall of Fame with WGNO’s Tamica Lee and husband Barry Smith; Timmy Doe of Fellow Men’s Wear celebrates Roman Harper Day at his Saints Hall of Fame inductee party.

4TH ANNUAL HENRY TURNER JR. DAY

LCM'S CHAIRISH FUNDRAISER

The Louisiana Children’s Museum’s “CHAIRish” fundraiser was a big success.

BALVENIE & GLENFIDDICH TASTING

From left: Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador Allan Roth joined William Grant & Sons’ Jorge Lauriano and The Balvenie Brand Ambassador Neil Strachan for a tasting at The Four Seasons.

Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine

Louisiana Film Channel anchor Aly Bockler and producer Courtney Bruno enjoyed the 4th Annual Henry Turner Jr. Day—A Taste of the Deep South in Baton Rouge.

REN FEST

The Louisiana Renaissance Festival in Hammond, going on through December 12, featured great costumes.

TIPPING POINT FUNDRAISER Tulane University’s “The Tipping Point” fundraiser at The Fillmore featured great live music.

LOIS ANDREWS' JAZZ FUNERAL & SECOND LINE

From left: New Orleans music royalty gathered for the funeral of Lois Andrew; Glen David Andrews marched in the second line for Lois Andrews.

OKTOBERFEST & CHERISH: EMILY HINGLE; OKTOBERFEST: SAMANTHA WITKOWSKI; BALVENIE & GLENFIDDICH TASTING, ROMAN HARPER DAY, TIPPING POINT, LOIS ANDREWS FUNERAL: GUSTAO ESCANELLE; HENRY TURNER DAY: ROBERT WITKOWSKI

WHERE Y'BEEN

REMEMBER WHEN OUR KIDS COULD GO TO SCHOOL AND PLAY FREELY?

NOW THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS

SAFE FOR CHILDREN. THE CDC HAS RECOMMENDED THAT ALL CHILDREN AGES 5 AND UP GET VACCINATED AGAINST COVID-19.

The vaccines have proven to be safe and effective in children as young as 5 years old. The vaccine is so safe that the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urge all eligible people to get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available to them. When your child gets vaccinated against COVID-19, they also have a better chance at staying in school and participating in the activities they enjoy.

“This vaccine for children has passed rigorous clinical trials and is safe – just like the other common vaccines we recommend our children receive.” DR. WANDA THOMAS

PROFESSOR OF PEDIATRICS, LSU Health Shreveport

“These vaccines are as safe and as effective as any vaccines we’ve ever had for any disease.” DR. MARK KLINE

PHYSICIAN-IN-CHIEF AND PEDIATRICIAN, Children’s Hospital New Orleans

GET THE FACTS: visit ldh.la.gov/kidsvax or call the Vaccine Hotline at 1-855-453-0774

Latest Issue: December 2021—Holiday Dining Guide

Articles inside

Walls Project Paints the State

Food News

Po-Boy Views

A Season for the Children

Tales From the Quarter

Bar Guide

Generations of Service at Crescent City Steaks