January 2019
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CONTENTS Features 6 8 10 14 16 16
BEST IN FITNESS
Thomas Morstead Sugar Bowl Preview Champagne 101 Tricentennial Memories NYE Around the World New Orleans Running Clubs
Events & Nightlife 20 Lakeside 2 Riverside 26 Concert Calendar
MY FRANCOS. MY TRAINER. SMALL GROUP TRAINING / TRX / YOGA
Food & Drink 30 32 34 37
Food News $20 and Under Restaurant Guide Bar Guide
Extras 38 40 42 44 46
Film Reviews Columns Around the Web Where Ya Been? Where Y'at Chat
January 2019 Vol. 22 No. 05 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig Creative Director: Michael Fulkerson Assistant Editor: Kathy Bradshaw Movie Editors: David Vicari & Fritz Esker Copy Editor: Michelle Nicholson Contributing Writers: Emily Hingle, Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Landon Murray, Leigh Wright, Emil Flemmon, Greg Roques, Steven Melendez, Andrew Alexander, Noah StokesRaab, Kimmie Tubre Director of Sales: Stephen Romero Cover Photo by Romney Caruso Photographers & Designers: Gus Escanelle, Jason Hall, Steve Hatley, Romney Caruso, Jorge Menes, Kathy Bradshaw, Greg Roques, James Macaluso Interns: Marissa Williams, Raven West, Victoria Crouch, Philip Flettrich, Taylor Braud, Jasmine Brown, Ka'Cell Mansura Subscribe: Receive 1 year (14 issues) for $30 and get a FREE Where Y’at CD. Subscribe today at WhereYat.com. Logo © 2019 All rights reserved Bruce Betzer, Legal Counsel: (504) 304-9952 Where Y’at Magazine 5500 Prytania St., #133 New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 891-0144 info@whereyat.com | WhereYat.com
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Happy 2019 from Where Y’at Magazine! If you have yet to make plans for New Year’s Eve, this issue is for you. It’s filled with great events to choose from, including parties, dinners, parades, and more. If you’re wondering what bubbly to drink to celebrate, don’t miss Kathy Bradshaw’s “Pop Culture” piece that teaches the finer points of champagne. A Super Bowl victory would be a great way to kick off the new year! Andrew Alexander talks with Saints punter and philanthropist Thomas Morstead, who is a key component of the squad, whether he is pinning back the opposing team or tackling players who are running back his punts. Let’s hope that 2019 is as good of a year for New Orleans as 2018. Kimmie Tubre takes a fun look back to reflect on the important events of this past year, including the rare snowfall and the election of the city’s first female mayor. She also remembers late Saints owner Tom Benson. Finally, if your New Year’s resolution is to get in shape, Greg Roques’s look at local running clubs is for you. And with Twelfth Night upon us, your resolution may be to not eat too much king cake this Carnival season … which will be here before you know it! –Josh Danzig, Publisher
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Punting For Change Saints Punter Morstead Tackles Charity (and Sometimes Return Men) By Andrew Alexander
Photos by Romney Caruso
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on the ensuing drive. “I’m certainly glad we did eing a punter can be a lonely endeavor. it,” Morstead says. “It helped us win a Super Despite having 10 additional Bowl. I don’t really remember the kick itself—I’ve teammates on the field snapping, blocking, seen it on TV about a hundred times, but I and covering the opposition’s returner, the honestly kind of blacked out when it happened.” punter is the focal point of the play. Located Winning the Super Bowl is the perfect several yards behind the long snapper, alone way to end any NFL season, let alone one’s on a football island, the punter analyzes the rookie campaign. Morstead is one of the few elements and the coverage team, deciding remaining players from the franchise’s lone where to strategically place the punt to Super Bowl victory, and he has weathered the maximize his team’s success and avoid peaks and valleys of the subsequent seasons, disaster. which makes the current winning resurgence Punting is a craft that lends itself to an over the past two seasons even sweeter. introvert and requires the dedication to spend The winning is a product of one of the core hours punting footballs, perfecting the spiral values of the Saints: getting the right people and placement of the ball, often alone. in the building. It’s been a process, Morstead That’s what initially drew New Orleans Saints says, but during three straight 7-9 seasons, punter Thomas Morstead to begin pursuing the Saints stuck to their values and principles punting as a teenager. Punting a soccer ball was while building a new team foundation, trusting a ingrained in Morstead at a young age, from his process that has ultimately proved successful. days of playing goalie, and when he excelled After experiencing so much team success in a Punt, Pass, and Kick competition in middle early in his career, Morstead is excited that school, he discovered his knack for punting a the winning culture has come full-circle. Even football. though many fans and pundits are quick to “Some people love hitting balls on the golf compare this year’s squad to past successful range, and I remember what it felt like to kick Saints teams, Morstead points out that every a punt that spiraled and how good of a feeling single team has been uniquely different from it was,” Morstead says. “I always was the type the others. “There is definitely a special energy of kid who didn’t need someone to play with. and an ‘it’ factor that I feel like this team has,” I could go shoot free throws for hours. I could Morstead says. “Honestly, we had it last year as go punt footballs for hours by myself, and well, and it’s been a lot of fun.” naturally, being an introvert, it suited me.” This season, the Saints offense has been All those hours paid off, as Morstead, in roaring, scoring at a higher clip than nearly his 10th year with the Saints, has become an every team in the league. More offensive integral player in the franchise and a beloved touchdowns equate to less punting for member of the New Orleans community. The Morstead, who averaged over 58 punts per former Pro Bowler etched himself into Saints season his first nine years. Through 12 games and NFL lore with his famous onside kick to this season, the Saints have punted only 28 start the second half of Super Bowl XLIV in times, the fewest in the NFL. With a lack of 2010. punting game-to-game, Morstead says he Saints coach Sean Payton alerted Morstead actually stays more engaged than usual. at the beginning of halftime “It’s counterintuitive—the that the team would be more I punt, the less I do,” running the surprise play, “I always was the type Morstead explains. “Part of dubbed “Ambush,” giving that is, when you go into of kid who didn’t need the game, the adrenaline the rookie a half hour to dwell on the impending someone to play with. you experience for one gutsy call. “My blood play can sit in your system I could go shoot free pressure and heart rate for a while. So, I don’t have spiked when he told me,” to do too much activity throws for hours. I Morstead recalls. “We on the sidelines when I’m could go punt footballs punting more.” Morstead worked on it, but I’m not sure I ever thought we’d needed all the adrenaline for hours by myself, actually do it as a surprise he could muster last year and naturally, being an against the Minnesota in a game.” In one of the most in the NFC introvert, it suited me.” Vikings pressure-packed situations Divisional Playoffs. in all of sports, Morstead On his first punt of the lined up to begin the game, Morstead made second half and delivered. The kick caught the a touchdown-saving tackle on Vikings return Indianapolis Colts off-guard, allowing the Saints man Marcus Sherels, suffering a painful rib to recover and take their first lead of the game injury in the process. Battling through the pain,
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New Orleans Saints Punter Thomas Morstead Morstead stayed in the game, launching three more successful punts. “Most guys have an opportunity to gut it out for their teammates throughout the season, and that was a rare opportunity for me to gut it out for my teammates,” Morstead says. “It was an honor to do it.” Vikings fans responded to Morstead’s gritty performance by donating over $220,000 to his charitable foundation, What You Give Will Grow. Overwhelmed by the generosity of the Vikings fans, Morstead turned right around and donated all the proceeds to Children’s Hospitals Minnesota for its Child Life program. That donation last winter was a highlight in a long line of philanthropic endeavors by Morstead’s foundation, which emphasizes helping children battling cancer. Inspired by his friend James Ragan, who battled osteosarcoma, Morstead and his wife Lauren started WYGWG in 2014 to help the New Orleans community and encourage the giving spirit. “James’s fight, his attitude, and his mentality in dealing with it and helping others who were going through the same thing were really inspiring, and it’s a way to keep his legacy and memory alive through the foundation,” Morstead says. The name of the organization comes from a
quote by Frank Gansz, Morstead’s mentor and special teams coach at Southern Methodist: “What you give will grow. What you keep, you lose.” Gansz passed away in 2009, the day after Morstead was drafted by the Saints, but the impact Gansz had on Morstead’s life propelled him to found WYGWG to continue to give back and help others. Since its inception, WYGWG has raised over $3.5 million for charitable causes with the help of an army of dedicated volunteers. “I can’t believe we are at where we’re at,” Morstead says. “It’s been really fun to have the ability to be impactful in our community, which supports the team so much. I love being able to give back and positively impact the lives of the fans who cheer for us every week.” Morstead encourages anyone interested in donating money or time to visit WYGWG. org to get plugged in and contribute to the positive impact the foundation is having on the community. “Everybody that is involved feels they’re making an impact, and their small piece really does matter,” Morstead says. “It’s a really cool community of volunteers and support that we have, and it’s been a lot of fun. Hopefully, we can continue to do more and more in the future.”
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utside of the three College Football Playoff games, few of the 39 bowls feature high-profile matchups with national appeal, but this year’s Sugar Bowl brings together two blue-blood programs in one of the juiciest matchups of the entire bowl season. Fresh off conference-title game losses, number 5-ranked Georgia will face number 15 Texas in the 85th Sugar Bowl on New Year’s night, the teams’ first meeting since the Georgia Bulldogs topped the Texas Longhorns 10-9 in the 1984 Cotton Bowl. Georgia (11-2) blew a 14-point secondhalf lead to Alabama in the Southeastern Conference Championship, while Texas lost by 12 to Oklahoma in the Big 12 Conference title game. The loss was particularly devastating for the Bulldogs, who missed out on the College Football Playoff as a result of the crushing defeat. Georgia is far and away the more talented and complete team, but will the Bulldogs still be as motivated
after falling short of their major post-season goals? Georgia Offense vs. Texas Defense The Bulldogs have weapons, and lots of them. Led by sophomore quarterback Jake Fromm, the Georgia offense averaged nearly 34 points in SEC play this season, failing to score less than 27 in just one conference game (a 36-16 loss to LSU). Fromm led the SEC in completion percentage (68.4), finished second only to Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa in touchdown passes (27), and played one of his best games of the season in the SEC title game, finishing with over 300 yards and three touchdowns. The sophomore quarterback is joined in the backfield by one of the most fearsome running-back tandems in college football. D’Andre Swift and Elijah Holyfield blistered SEC defenses this season, combining for 1,993 yards and 17 touchdowns, with both finishing in the top five in rushing yards per attempt (6.69 and 6.50, respectively).
The Longhorn defense is accustomed to facing high-powered Big 12 offenses, having faced four of the top 12 offenses in college football during the season. Unfortunately, Texas allowed nearly 40 points per game to those opposing offenses and finished 2-3 in those five contests. One of the Longhorns’ biggest defensive weaknesses is getting off the field in third-down situations, and Georgia is more than able to take advantage. The Bulldogs will not have a problem putting points on the board in New Orleans. EDGE: Georgia Texas Offense vs. Georgia Defense The Longhorn offense is capable of scoring in abundance, but has often played to the level of its competition. Texas scored 48 to beat Oklahoma in October, but averaged just 22 points against lesser Big 12 teams Kansas State, Baylor, and Kansas. Sophomore quarterback Sam Ehlinger has carried the offensive load for the Longhorns, accounting for 38 total touchdowns this season. In a conference filled with gunslingers, Ehlinger passed for over 3,100 yards and 25 touchdowns, many to his favorite two targets: Lil’Jordan Humphrey and Collin Johnson. Humphrey proved to be one of college football’s best playmakers this season, with 79 catches, nine touchdowns, and over 1,100 yards, while Johnson is 55 yards away from a 1,000-yard season. The Longhorns’ offensive unit will be tested by a formidable Georgia unit—ranked 13th in total defense—that made Alabama’s Tagovailoa finally look mortal. Led by AllAmerican and Jim Thorpe Award-winning cornerback Deandre Baker, the Bulldogs held Tagovailoa to 10-of-25 passing and forced two interceptions, doubling the Alabama quarterback’s season total. Linebacker D’Andre Walker and safety Richard LeCounte will look to terrorize Ehlinger all night. In short, this is easily the best defense the Longhorns have faced all season, even without defensive coordinator Mel Tucker, who accepted the Colorado head-coaching job earlier this month. If the Dawgs are still hungry after the Alabama game, watch out. EDGE: Georgia Special Teams After botching a costly fake punt against Alabama in the SEC Championship and a fake field goal against LSU, Georgia should avoid any unnecessary special teams risks. EDGE: Georgia (but be wary of the fake kicks…) Prediction The Sugar Bowl would be another milestone victory for third-year Georgia head coach Kirby Smart after making the national championship last season, while a Texas win would be the most important post-season victory for the program in a decade, propelling the Longhorns back into the nation’s elite in Tom Herman’s second season. The Bulldogs, however, have too much talent, and Smart is not the type of coach to let his team hang their heads after a tough defeat. Texas may be on the upswing, but the program is not back just yet. PREDICTION: Georgia 38, Texas 24
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reaction that could result in an explosion of up to 90 percent of the remaining bottles.
Pop Culture The Champagne-Drinker’s Guide to New Year’s Eve
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By Kathy Bradshaw
othing says “Happy New Year!” or “Let’s celebrate!” like the unmistakable pop of a champagne cork. And what better way to express “Congrats” or “Life is good” than with the distinct clinking sound of two champagne flutes colliding to toast a big accomplishment or a happily-ever-after. And, of course, for those who want to live a life of pomp and swagger, nothing says “Hey, I’m better than you!” than rockin’ a $300 bottle of Dom.
Champagne is integrally connected to ideas of quality and prestige, of happiness and success. Sitting atop the sparkling-wine food chain, champagne has earned its reputation as the best and most popular wine in the world. But what exactly is champagne, what makes it so fancy, and what has us all simply bubbling over with joy at the thought of everyone’s favorite bubbly?
nickname “The Devil’s Wine,” and many winemakers were forced to don heavy iron masks when working in the cellars to avoid champagne shrapnel injuries. Apparently, once one bottle exploded, it could cause a chain
A Bubbly Background Champagne has been bubbling for hundreds of years now. The oldest known sparkling wine dates back to about 1531, with the first actual champagne popping up about a hundred years later. They say champagne was invented by accident: Before winemakers understood the process, the wine was bottled before it was done fermenting, and bubbles— which were considered a major defect at the time—built up. These unwanted, derelict bubbles caused so much pressure to build up from gas inside the bottles that many would burst, sending shards of glass flying and turning champagne corks into dangerous missiles. This unexpected and spontaneous phenomenon earned champagne the
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What’s in a Name? You can call a spade a spade and you can call me late for dinner, but you better not call just any old sparkling wine “champagne.” Champagne is a fiercely protected name, and it belongs exclusively to the approximately 300 million bottles of the real deal produced per year. The champagne crusaders of the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC) are not messing around. In 2008, for instance, Belgian government officials destroyed more than 3,000 bottles of California sparkling wine illegally labelled as champagne. Just like a knock-off purse isn’t supposed to use the Prada label, the CIVC won’t allow any sparkling impostors to legally use their brand name. And just in case you’re thinking of naming your dog or maybe your first-born “Champagne,” think again. They’ll come after you. The champagne folks sued Yves Saint-Laurent in the 90s over their perfume known as Champagne and even threatened a lawsuit against Apple in 2013, when the company came out with what they wanted to refer to as a “champagne”-colored iPhone. It’s now simply called gold. Though champagne is still the best, there are plenty of perfectly good—and much cheaper—sparkling wines out there: wines like cava from Spain, Italian Prosecco, Crémant from several non-Champagne regions of France, and a whole slew of American sparklings. Personally, I’m not one to scoff at a nice bottle of Barefoot Bubbly or Asti Spumante. But if it’s effervescence that you seek, I hate to burst your bubble: Prosecco has as much as four fewer bars of atmospheric pressure than champagne, and Crémant has about one less, which means they are both far less bubbly. In comparison to champagne, these other varieties are, therefore, kind of the sparkling-wine equivalent of drinking a day-old can of Coke left open in the fridge. But their flavor, accessibility, and, especially, their price point keep them from falling completely flat. Golden Rules Champagne must abide by many rules in order to be champagne. The wine, and the grapes that compose it, must all come from the Champagne region of France—that
illustrious little wine-producing area about a hundred miles east of Paris, comprised of about 33,000 hectares of vineyards. If a sparkling wine comes from anywhere that is not Champagne—Napa, Oregon, Detroit— then it’s not champagne, either. But it’s about more than just location. Champagne must be made primarily with Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay grapes that are required to be handpicked, and the sparkling is held to many other guidelines of quality and production. For example, there are strict champagne commandments that regulate how the vines are pruned, how the grapes are pressed, and even how many vines and grapes can be grown. Champagne must be produced through a process called the méthode champenoise, which involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle. After the initial fermentation (which produces alcohol), the wine is bottled, and yeast and sugar are added. As the yeast cells devour all that sugar, they get riled up and excited, producing carbon dioxide that forms energetic little bubbles. Think of it like a bunch of hyperactive kids bouncing off the walls after eating too much Halloween candy. This is how champagne gets its fizziness. All champagne must then be aged for a minimum of a year, though many of the better champagnes are aged for three to 10 years, and some for as many as 30. These many exacting standards, its relatively limited production, its assured quality, and its associations with royalty and riches, as well as a little skillful marketing, keep champagne highly sought after and its cost elevated. The prices of some of the poshest bottles can soar to around $50,000, but if you really want to splurge on your next sipping experience, invest in the “Taste of Diamonds” champagne from 2013, which tops the list of the Top 10 Most Expensive Champagne Bottles in the World for 2018 at a whopping $2.07 million. You can justify the purchase knowing that not only will you get some kick-ass champagne, but the bottle is also decked out in 18-karat gold with a single 19-karat diamond. And hey, it’s a grand cru after all, meaning you’ll be getting the best champagne of the very best. Or, you can buy a two-bedroom in Manhattan for the same price.
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Filling Your Flute As you plan out your upcoming New Year’s Eve festivities, champagne ought to be on the guest list. So, to help you get a blanc de blancs that’s not just blasé or choose between Moët and Mumm, below is a list of a few suggested bottles to fit any budget (including a few worthwhile non-champagne sparkling wines). These selections are thanks to Sarah Arceneaux, a certified sommelier via The Court of Master Sommeliers and a wine guru at Brennan’s Restaurant. She recommended some decent to top-notch sparkling wines for a whole range of New Year’s Eve plans and price ranges. So, here are a variety of scenarios and the bottles to pair with them: 1. $15 or less a bottle: You’re spending New Year’s Eve home on the couch, watching Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with your cat, and you just want something with bubbles that goes down easy. Arceneaux says, “France, Spain, and Italy make wonderful, bright, crisp sparkling wines without the price tag of champagne,” and suggests these bargain bottles: • Juvé y Camps Reserva de la Familia Brut Nature Cava, Spain, $14.99: “While the others in this category are bright and easy, this one packs a bang for its buck, with some rich flavors of toast and crème brûlée,” says Arceneaux. She recommends it with duck-fat french fries. • Lucien Albrecht Crémant d’Alace Brut Rosé NV, France, $15.00
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Riondo Proesecco Spago Nero, Italy, $13.99
2. $15 to $30 a bottle: You have to go to the in-laws’ annual New Year’s Eve potluck dinner. You really couldn’t care less what bottle you bring, but you know, for your significant other’s sake, that you have to at least look like you tried. • Moutard Brut Grande Cuvee NV Champagne, $24.95 • Weingut Brand Pet Nat Weißburgunder Sylvaner NV, Germany, $27.99: Who knew Germany made good sparklings? “Germany has a long history of making sparkling wines that are bright and fresh and easy on the wallet as well,” Arceneaux explains. • Argyle Brut 2014, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA, $23.99 (Everything from now on is real champagne). 3. $30 to $50 a bottle: Now you’re getting fancy. You have a hot date to a friend’s New Year’s Eve bash, and you want to impress her (or him) with your fine champagne selection— or, at least, get him (or her) tipsy enough to kiss you at midnight. • Drappier Carte d’Or Brut, $39.99 • G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut NV, $39.99 • Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé NV, Half Bottle, $41.99: “For
the times you want something special, but don’t want the commitment [or the cost] of the whole bottle,” Arceneaux says. 4. $50 to $70 a bottle: Extravagant and romantic dinner for two. You can’t believe you managed to score a table at the hottest place in town, especially on New Year’s Eve. You’re even thinking of popping the question—so you should plan on popping open a darn good bottle as well. When you bring her back to your place to watch the ball drop and celebrate your impending nuptials, you better not be pouring André. • Saint-Chamant Brut Rosé or Blanc de Blancs, $59.99 • Dom Ruinart Brut Rosé, $59.97 • Delamotte Blanc de Blancs NV, $64.99 5. $70 and up: You’re going to one of those super-extravagant, all-out-night-on-thetown, formal kinds of NYE events: open bar, allnight buffet, bottle service, black-tie attire, with tickets that cost more than you paid to see Beyoncé in concert. You definitely want to pregame with a bottle that fits that same mood. • Gaston Chiquet “Special Club” Brut, $72.50 • Egly-Ouriet Millesime Brut Grand Cru, $96.41 • Jacques Selosse “Substance” Blanc de Blancs, $388, for that special splurge
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018 has been quite a year for the city of New Orleans. With lit “300s” filling the city, packed festivals, and a new mayor, New Orleans spent its tricentennial year celebrating and embracing change. Where Y’at has been here covering this year and its adventures along the way, bringing exciting happenings along with historical facts. Moving into a new century of life, it’s time to look back at a few of the most memorable moments of 2018. A Frozen January with a Sprinkle of Snow The first day of 2018 started with a bang—the exact sound several pipes made as they exploded from freezing temperatures. Many woke up to frozen pipes and dead plants, and that freeze came off and on during all of January, leaving several residents with maintenance issues and boil-water advisories. There were even a few flurry-filled days. Now, the term “drop in water pressure” has become the norm throughout the Big Easy.
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Top Destination to Travel There’s no better way to start off a birthday than with a compliment, and the city agrees. Entranced by the unique culture, food, music, and the tricentennial, The New York Times Magazine listed New
Orleans as the number one destination on their list of 52 places to visit in 2018. Thank you, NY Times, for starting this birthday off on a high note. A NOLA Legend Gets His Wings: Tom Benson’s Passing Every birthday year has its ups and downs, and the loss of local legend Tom Benson was a hard pill to swallow. Not only was Benson documented as the richest man in the state of Louisiana, but he was also a part of the city’s history. The Loyola graduate made his start in the car business, moving from there to bank investments. After some time, he became a sports franchise owner after purchasing the New Orleans Saints in the mid-1980s. Benson also owned the New Orleans Pelicans and worked heavily in philanthropy. He was 90 when he passed away peacefully on March 15, and in true New Orleans spirit, his life was celebrated at an event with the city’s most elite attendees and a second line. Bourbon Street Construction If you haven't noticed, much of Bourbon Street has been one big ditch this year. While trying to make the Quarter’s streets a little more car- and pedestrian-friendly, the city has been working on a year-long construction project that has been hectic for both businesses and tourists. The construction even led to discoveries of
hardened cooking grease and who knows what else underground. Many locals were less than surprised, considering the many odors lurking through the Quarter. Unfortunately, the timing couldn’t be worse, as many of the city’s tricentennial visitors had Bourbon Street as top priority on their list of things to see and do. First Female Mayor of New Orleans New Orleans couldn't stay out of the spotlight during its 300th birthday year. While the city made national headlines for being picked as 2018’s number one travel destination, just a few months before that, in November 2017, we elected our first female mayor in a race where two of the final candidates were female. On May 7, 2018, we inaugurated Mayor Latoya Cantrell. Let’s agree that 2018 was a win for women around the globe.
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Tom
Audubon Zoo Lights Keeping in the holiday spirit, it seems like Audubon Zoo and City Park are playing a little game of trading places. The zoo, famous for its Halloween celebration “Boo at the Zoo,” decided to give this tricentennial year a final shebang with a new exhibit, “Audubon Zoo Lights.” Presented by the Children’s Hospital, the “nighttime winter Benson dreamland” was created to build some holiday joy around the community. Who Dat Nation Reigns High Not only have the Saints been having an amazing season with a winning streak and the happiest fans in the NFL, but “Who Dat!” Saints quarterback Drew Brees has had a winning year filled with several recordbreaking events. After throwing a 62s yard touchdown, Brees t h Lig broke Peyton Manning’s record for career passing yards. It was his biggest solo feat, making him the NFL’s alltime leading passer.
udu Scout Island Scream bon Zoo Park Just when we thought Halloween in the Big Easy couldn't get any better, City Park decided to gift us with a spooky adventure village filled with a zombie battlefield, haunted swamp, a kidfriendly hayride, and so much more. Many of us from a certain generation were pretty devastated when the popular Sheriff Foti’s Haunted House shut down over a decade ago. Fortunately, 2018 brought Scout Island Ma l Scream Park, and the yor rel t n L locals are hoping to see it ayota Ca again year after year.
2018 was an eventful year with so many fantastic happenings that it would be impossible to mention all of them. For sure, New Orleans can rest knowing that its 300th birthday was nothing short of amazing. Here’s to 100 more years and a futuristic 400thyear celebration.
Cheers to 2019!
Antoine’s Restaurant wishes you another year of love, happiness, and good health.
www.a ntoines.com | 504-581-4422 713 Ru e Saint Louis New Orl ea ns, LA 70130 WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 15
film Dinner for One, starring comedians Freddie Frinton and May Warden. One strange tradition is called “bleigiessen,” where people will melt a little bit of lead and then drop it into cold water. The shape the lead takes is supposed to determine what the year ahead will bring.
New Year’s Traditions Around the World: New Orleans Edition By Burke Bischoff
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ew Year’s Eve continues to be a popular holiday for worldwide celebration: the start of another chapter in the world’s history and a time for people to make new promises to themselves and others. With any celebration, there are certain traditions that each one of us performs every New Year. Given that it’s such a global holiday, it’s no surprise that different countries hold different traditions more sacred than others. We’ll be giving the spotlight to the unique New Year’s traditions in countries that have some connection to our own Crescent City. France Considering that France is the country to which New Orleans owes its existence, the French New Year’s Eve tradition, aka “Le Réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre,” shares a lot of similarities with that of the city. As the name implies, many French people have réveillon dinners with friends and family in honor of Saint Sylvestre, the patron saint of the New Year. The dinners typically have foie gras, smoked salmon, oysters, and champagne. Another unique tradition that the French have is instead of kissing under the mistletoe during Christmas, they reserve it for the final stroke of midnight to ring in the new year. There are also plenty of costume and/or club parties that happen throughout France, so that the new year can
be welcomed with festive celebration. Spain Spain left its lasting footprint on the architecture and culture of New Orleans for the nearly four decades it owned Louisiana. There are two main traditions that the Spanish maintain every New Year. One tradition is the 12 lucky grapes: During the 12 strokes of midnight, people will eat one grape, each of which represents one month of the year, per clock chime, thereby ringing in the new year. Another unique Spanish tradition is the act of wearing red underwear so that Cupid can find your true love in the coming year. Other traditions include participating in the Christmas lottery, dropping a gold object into a glass of cava and toasting with it, and taking the first step of the new year with your right foot. Germany After the early 1700s, many German immigrants, most of whom arrived during the 1840s and 1850s, were brought over to Louisiana to work on farms and help feed the settlement of New Orleans. New Year’s, or Neujahr, in Germany is celebrated with many different and fascinating traditions. Typically, Germans will have a midnight toast of Sekt, a German sparkling wine, and shout, “Prosit Neujahr.” Much like how A Christmas Story is an integral holiday viewing for Americans, on New Year’s Eve, many Germans love watching the British short
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Ireland Fleeing from British persecution near the end of the 1700s, the Irish have been a long-standing staple of New Orleans culture and have influenced many aspects of the city, even to this day. As a country steeped in beliefs and superstitions, Ireland has a multitude of New Year’s traditions to choose from. One simple tradition is cleaning one’s home from top to bottom, symbolizing a fresh start for a good new year. Another is for Irish families to set a place at the dinner table for a family member who passed away and to leave the front door unlatched as a way of remembering them. One unusual tradition involves banging on the doors and walls of the house with Christmas bread, supposedly to chase out bad luck that’s within one’s home and bring in good luck. Honduras New Orleans has had close ties with Honduras since the late 1800s when local firms Standard Fruit Co. and United Fruit Co. started receiving large shipments of bananas from the country. Most of time, Hondurans organize parties to spend time with their closest friends for New Year’s. One very popular tradition is to gather at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Comayagua, which is one of the oldest cathedrals in Central America, and listen to the church bell ring 12 times to usher in the new year. Another fun tradition in Honduras is to create a mannequin, made to symbolize the previous year (or sometimes a local politician), and burn it to welcome change and allow the new year to start.
Italy While they were not treated well at all for a long time after they started immigrating to New Orleans in the 19th century, the Italians, most of whom came from Sicily, persevered and have left their mark on the city. For New Year’s Eve, Italy is particularly known for the large number of fireworks that people shoot off into the night sky. Italy is also known for its abundant dinners; the New Year’s dinner is no exception and usually contains cotechino (pork sausage) or zampone (stuffed pig’s trotter), as well as lentils. Similar to the Spanish, Italians will also wear red undergarments to bring in good luck. One old—and extreme—tradition from southern Italy entails throwing out old pots, pans, clothes, and furniture from an upstairs window, symbolizing the act of letting go of past sadness and preparing for the future. Vietnam After the Vietnam War, a large number of Vietnamese fled to New Orleans in the mid-70s because of the familiar climate and religion here. The Vietnamese New Year, or Tết (which is short for Tết Nguyên Đán), occurs usually in January or February on the same day as the Chinese New Year. There are a ton of traditions associated with Tết. An important aspect of the celebration is family, so many people will return to their homeland to visit relatives and eat food like mâm ngũ quả (assorted fruit trays), bánh chưng (rice cakes), and canh măng (bamboo soup with chicken or pork). It’s also common for elders in each family to give red envelopes with money in them to the children. One of the most important traditions in Tết is how the first person who enters a family’s home determines that family’s fortune for the entire year. So, if the person is kind or successful, then the family will receive blessings for the entire year.
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New Year's Resolution: Run This City Five Unique New Orleans Clubs for Runners By Greg Roques
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s a long-time runner, I am honestly shocked by the number of running clubs active in New Orleans. I have lived in cities more than five times the size of our metro area, both in geography and population, and was unable to find a quarter of the running communities we have here… and they call us the Big Easy. A good running club can be the most powerful weapon in your race-training artillery—it’s also a great way to make friends and explore areas you wouldn’t otherwise venture through. While a quiet solo run can be cathartic, having a group that relies on you to show up makes it less likely you will skip a workout, regardless of the weather, time of day, or your mood. No matter your schedule or skill level, New Orleans has a crew for you. Several organizations around the city shared details with Where Y’at about their groups to help you find your perfect fit. The 504th FB/IN: @the504th New Orleans’s newest running movement meets Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m., taking off from a different location that is announced on their social media channels each week. What makes the 504th unique is that all runs are completed as a group: Members rendezvous every half-mile or so before progressing for a total of five to seven miles. The group accommodates runners of all skill levels and assigns designated group leaders who can keep pace with new
athletes, assuring no one falls behind. Many members gather after the weekly workout to socialize over drinks or dinner, while others coordinate additional unofficial runs throughout the week via the 504th’s inviteonly WhatsApp group. The 504th is part of the Bridging the Gap (#BTG) running movement, bringing urban running communities together under one roof. There are BTG running groups all over the globe, from Asia and Paris all the way to New York City and New Orleans. Recently, the 504th jumped on another global trend, hosting a street art run mapped around the works of the NOLA Mural Project. Move Ya Brass MoveYaBrass.com TW/IN: @mybkrewe | FB: Facebook.com/ groups/mybkrewe Move Ya Brass hosts weekly two- to threemile self-paced runs every Monday at 6 p.m. During the fall and winter months during Standard Time (early November to early March) workouts begin at Crescent Park (3360 Chartres St.) at the Rusty Rainbow entrance; once Daylight Savings Time resumes (early March to early November), runs relocate to City Park in front of the New Orleans Museum of Art. Runs are open to athletes of all skill levels including walkers, and post-run hydration is provided courtesy of Evamor Water. The group informally gathers to run local races together and to participate in additional Move Ya Brass organized workouts at Crescent Park, including dance-cardio
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or yoga on Tuesday evenings as well as Thursday and Saturday mornings. November Project FB: November Project New Orleans – NOLA TW: @Nov_ProjectNO IN: @novemberprojectnola November Project is a free global-fitness movement that meets thrice weekly in New Orleans at the crack of dawn, no matter what—rain or shine, sleet or hail, clear skies or a tropical storm. While running is often integral to its workouts and many members are active in local races and area running events, NP prides itself on not just being a running club. Every workout is designed so that both the most and least fit in the group can get out every bit of what they put in. Sessions typically last 50 minutes, starting with a warm-up before progressing to different timed circuits of bodyweight-style exercises, varying between group-oriented and individually paced workouts. Monday workouts begin at 6 a.m. and are held at rotating locations announced the day before via NP’s various social media outlets. Two workouts are available on Wednesdays, taking place at 5:15 a.m. and 6 a.m. at the bottom of the stairs to the Superdome in Champions Square. The first part of the workout generally involves a lap around the Superdome, followed by 10 or more minutes running up and down the stairs to the dome from Champions Square. Friday mornings begin at 6 a.m. in the parking lot nearest Shelter #1 on Lakeshore
Drive, across from Landry’s Seafood. Several NP members participate in a group social committee, planning regular events for the group outside of its morning workouts. The “November Project Breakfast Club” at Russell’s Marina Grill has also become a staple that follows the group’s Friday morning workouts. Varsity Sports & Happy’s Running Club FB: @VarsitySports (page)/VSNOLA (groups) | TW/IN: @VarsitySportsLA Subscribe to Varsity Sports weekly running calendar email at VarsityRunning.com. Happy’s Running Club: FB: @ HappysRunningClubNOLA | IN: @ runhrcnola New Orleans’s most active running community, Varsity Sports hosts four or more social runs each week for everyone from ultra-marathoners to those just trying to have fun and stay in shape. Monday evening interval workouts are held at the City Park Practice Track starting at 6:15 p.m.; runs typically add up to around four to five miles, including warm-up and cool-down. Tuesdays, Varsity hosts its “Sunrise at Satsuma” run from Satsuma on Maple Street (7901 Maple St.) from 6:15 a.m. - 7:15 a.m. Runs typically include a 3.5- and five-mile route and are walker- and stroller-friendly. Wednesday is time for “Happy’s Running Club." An approximately 5k run takes off at 6:15 from Manning’s (519 Fulton St.). This is a fun, leisurely run with alternating routes
through the CBD, French Quarter, and Riverfront. Happy’s Running Club is typically Varsity’s weekly social outing, offering runners a chance to drink and socialize following the workout. A long run is organized on Saturday mornings at 6:30 a.m., alternating starting locations each weekend between the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park and the St. Charles Avenue entrance to Audubon Park. A variety of distances are mapped out along the route, ranging anywhere from three to 20+ miles. Runs are often, though not always, held on Thursday evenings as well, taking off from varying locations. Keep up with Varsity Sports on social media or subscribe to their weekly eNewsletter on their website for more info.
New Orleans Hash House Harriers noh3.com FB: facebook.com/groups/NewOrleansHash New Orleans’s most “New Orleans” running club describes itself as a “Drinking club with a running problem.” The run, or “hash,” organizes each week at 6 p.m., alternating between Monday and Sunday evenings depending on the time of year; weekly locations are announced on their website and through the Facebook group. There’s usually also a social (read: “drinking”) event held at a TBD local bar on Friday nights. There are hash groups (called houses) all around the world, and they work the same everywhere. A member volunteers to be the “hare,” who lays a trail for the evening’s run/
Nov ember Project
walk. This means that he or she designates the route of the run by throwing down blobs of flour on the ground for everyone else to follow—it’s all very Hansel and Gretel. The point is for the hare to throw off their fellow hashers, who are “chasing” him or her, through various twists, turns, tricks, and clues. Everyone stops halfway through the route for a beer break, called the “Beer Near.” At the end of the trail, usually two to four miles later, the “circle” forms: The group gathers round to drink beer, discuss hash business, and indulge in shenanigans like singing dirty songs or good-naturedly poking fun at each other. The evening concludes with an informal dinner. It’s like if Project Mayhem replaced Fight Club with a running club, but with a whole
lot more beer. Members are even given hash names, most of which, in typical hash fashion, are not fit to print. As one long-time New Orleans hasher puts it: “The hash is like a big family gathering. Everyone is welcome, and other hashers become your best friends. In fact, many people turn to the hash in times of personal crisis because it’s such a great support system.” The hash costs $7, and that includes all the water and beer you can drink. The “food hare” also provides chips and snacks during circle, and an actual meal at the end of the evening.
Mov e Ya Brass
For a comprehensive list of New Orleans running clubs as well as expanded details on the groups above, visit WhereYat.com.
331 331 Decatur Decatur 527-5954 527-5954 Best Best Guinness Guinness In In New New Orleans Orleans Live Live Music Music Nightly Nightly NO NO COVER COVER www.kerryirishpub.com www.kerryirishpub.com Every Tuesday is Honky Tonk Tuesday Every Tuesday in March – Honky Tonk Tuesday with JasonBishop Bishop 8:30 pm!! w/ Jason 8:30 pm Thurs. 1/03 Denise Marie 8:30 pm Fri. 3/04 Patrick Cooper 5 pm Fri. 1/04 Tim Robertson 5 pm Rubin/Wilson Folk-Blues Explosion 9 pm Fri. 1/04 Beth Patterson 9 pm Sat. 3/05 SpeedPatterson The Mule 55 pm Sat. 1/05 Beth pm Ruby Ross 9 pm 9 pm Sat. 1/05 Roux The Day! Thurs. 3/10 Foot & Friends pm Sun. 1/06 Will Dickerson98 pm Fri. 3/11 1/10 Chip Van Hudson Thurs. Wilson5 pm 8:30 pm Hurricane Refugees5 pm 9 pm Fri. 1/11 Patrick Cooper Sat. 1/11 3/12 MarkDickerson Parsons 5 pm Fri. Will & Friends 9 pm Roux TheMarie Day! 9 pm Sat. 1/12 Denise 5 pm Sun. 1/12 3/13 Traditional Irish Session95pm pm Sat. Hurricane Refugees Mon. 3/14 Kim Carson 8:30 pm Sun. 1/13 Beth Patterson 8 pm Fri. 1/18 Hugh Morrison 5 pm Happy Day!! Live Irish Music w/ Fri. 1/18 St. Patrick’s Lynn Drury 9 pm Thurs. Van Hudson 12:00Coats pm (Noon) Sat. 1/193/17Mike Kerwin & Geoff 5 pm Speed The Mule 3:30 Sat.Thurs. 1/19 3/17 Paintbox w/Dave James &pm Thurs. 3/17 Tim Roux The Day!97:30 Robertson pm pm – til the wee hours Sun. 1/20 Denise Marie 8 pm Thurs.1/24 Beth Patterson 8:30 pm Fri. 3/18 Patrick Cooper 5 pm Fri. 1/25 Tim Robertson 5 pm One Tailed Three 9 pm Fri. 1/25 Van Hudson & Friends 9 pm Sat. 3/19 SpeedHickey The Mule 5 pm Sat. 1/26 Dave 5pm Frank Sautier & Friends 99pm pm Sat. 1/26 Hurricane Refugees Mon. 3/21 Kim Carson 8:30 Sun. 1/27 Irish Session 5pm pm Sun. 1/27 Patrick Cooper 8 pm
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 19
Lakeside2Riverside U P C O M I N G F E S T I VA L S & E V E N T S
Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year's Eve Parade December 31
NEW YEAR'S EVE Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade Decatur Street from Elysian Fields Street to Canal Street Monday, December 31: 2:00 p.m. allstatesugarbowl.org/allstate-sugar-bowl/new-yearseve-parade The Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade is a great way to enjoy New Year’s, Mardi Gras, and the football game, all in one event. The parade will start at 2 p.m. and will travel along the river on Decatur Street and end on Canal Street. Enjoy the holiday season with the family and get some bead-catching practice before parade season really starts.
a continental breakfast before you leave. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a unique way to experience New Year’s Eve in NOLA. The Metropolitan's New Year’s Eve Extravaganza The Metropolitan Nightclub: 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. Monday, December 31: 9:00 p.m. eventbrite.com/e/the-metropolitans-new-yearseve-extravaganza-featuring-audien-much-moretickets-52513433092 Ring in the New Year in the best way possible: an amazing party at the Metropolitan nightclub. Metropolitan’s New Year's Eve Extravaganza will feature three rooms of music, a balloon drop, and a champagne toast at midnight. The party will feature music from Audien, with special guests Zack Martino and B2B Brklyn. Bring that special someone and share a midnight kiss with some of the hardest-hitting house and EDM anywhere, while you ring in the New Year in style. Ring in the Revelry: New Year’s Eve Bash at Landry’s Seafood House French Quarter Landry’s Seafood House (French Quarter): 620 Decatur St. Monday, December 31: 8:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. eventbrite.com/e/ring-in-the-revelry-nye-bashat-landrys-seafood-house-french-quartertickets-51560727524 Landry’s VIP Bash provides guests with an unrivaled New Year’s Eve experience. Enjoy great food, drinks, and a breathtaking view of the fireworks show on the
New Year’s Eve at The Cannery The Cannery: 3803 Toulouse St. Monday, December 31: 8:30 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. cannerynola.com/nye Celebrate New Year’s Eve at one of the hottest venues in the city. This amazing event will have an open bar, exquisite catering featuring delicious Southern favorites, and all of the dancing your feet can handle. The event will continue with a rooftop champagne toast at midnight, offering an unrivaled view of the city. And if you thought the fun would end after that, think again: This party does it right, which means capping off the night with
The Metropolitan's New Year's Eve Extravaganza December 31 Big Night New Orleans New Year’s Eve Gala Hyatt Regency New Orleans: 601 Loyola Ave. Monday, December 31: 9:00 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. bignightneworleans.com Celebrate New Year’s Eve, New Orleans-style, with all of the food, drinks, and music that you can handle. Featuring Cowboy Mouth, Amanda Shaw, DJ Mike Swift, the 610 Stompers, and others, this musical menu is sure to be a sweet treat for your ears. The food blows the music out of the water, if that’s even possible, with down-home favorites like boudin, gumbo, jambalaya, meat-carving stations, and so much more. Be festive and have your fill of music, food, and fun this holiday season.
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New Year’s Eve with Zebra at The House of Blues December 31 river. Landry’s is offering two ways to enjoy this amazing event: The VIP and Enhanced VIP tickets are both a great bang for your buck. Both options include a full buffet, a lavish open bar, great views of the fireworks and the city, champagne toasts, and dancing. Don’t miss this luxurious way to enjoy New Year’s Eve in the Big Easy. New Year’s Eve Dinner & Celebration at The Country Club The Country Club: 634 Louisa St. Monday, December 31: 7:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. thecountryclubneworleans.com/event/new-year-2018 Spend New Year’s Eve at The Country Club—not just any country club, but New Orleans’s premiere restaurant, pool, and lounge. While your friends play a round of golf with the boys at other country clubs, you can have one of the best New Year’s Eve experiences available. Enjoy cocktails and a light food reception with bottomless champagne. Then listen to a wonderful array of live music, and if you brought your bathing suit, take a dip in the pool. Then end the night by watching the fireworks show and take home some special party favors. New Year’s Eve with Zebra at The House of Blues House of Blues: 225 Decatur St. Monday, December 31: 9:00 p.m. houseofblues.com/neworleans Head on over to the House of Blues and have a rockin’ good time, courtesy of New Orleans’s own Zebra. This local rock band has been doing it big since the 70s and has found a lot of success. They return home and go back to their roots to give you a New Year’s Eve celebration that you won’t soon forget. The House of Blues also has awesome food and drinks to accompany the show.
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Wizard World Comic Con Ernest N. Morial Convention Center: 900 Convention Center Blvd. Friday, January 4 – Sunday, January 6: Times vary wizardworld.com/comiccon/new-orleans Once you’ve recovered from those New Year’s Eve parties, head on over to the Convention Center for Comic Con 2019. Bring the family or just relive your childhood in this magical world where anything is possible and fantasy becomes reality. Also, take this opportunity to meet some of your favorite stars from iZombie, Vampire Diaries, Luke Cage, and many more. Get an autograph for yourself or get a late Christmas present for that hard-to-shop-for friend; it’s all here at Wizard World Comic Con.
Bal Masque January 18
Joan of Arc Parade Jax Brewery, Decatur Street, and Chartres Street Sunday, January 6: 7:00 p.m. joanofarcparade.org/who-we-are/parade-route Get ready to bring out your medieval side and join the Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc for this historic walking parade that honors Joan of Arc—the unofficial patron saint of New Orleans. The parade is highlighted by a toast from the historic New Orleans Collection and Vincent Sciama, a sword-blessing at St. Louis Cathedral by the Very Reverend Father Philip Landry, and the king cake ceremony and crowning of the King at Washington Artillery Park. Guests are encouraged to bring their own king cake so that they can enjoy the ceremony with the king.
ENTERTAINMENT
TWELFTH NIGHT EVENTS Société Des Champs-Elysée Parade The Rampart-St. Claude Streetcar Line Sunday, January 6: 7:30 p.m. facebook.com/SocietyoftheElysianFields Celebrate Twelfth Night and kick off the carnival season with New Orleans’s newest krewe: La Société Pas Si Secrète Des Champs-Élysée. This new carnival troupe will hop on the Rampart-St. Claude streetcar and bring some early Mardi Gras to the Crescent City. Chuck Rogers, owner of the beloved Buffa’s Bar & Restaurant, will serve as the first King Kronos, and Al “Carnival Time” Johnson will ride as Titan. Keep the party going at the “Mardi Gras Ball” in the backroom at Buffa’s after the ride.
PCA Rodeo Finals Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center: 2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, MS Friday, January 11 – Sunday, January 13: Times vary pcarodeo.com/pca/pca-finals/ Have a buckin’ great time at the PCA Rodeo Finals. Enjoy rodeo from all levels, beginner to advanced, along with horses, bulls, and the always-hilarious rodeo clowns. The event is filled with games and activities for the whole family. Vendors will also be on site in case the shopping bug bites you while you’re there. Enjoy this amazing family-friendly event with great fun, food, and entertainment.
The Phunny Phorty Phellows The St. Charles Streetcar Line Sunday, January 6: 6:30 p.m. phunnyphortyphellows.com Twelfth Night on January 6 means two things: Mardi Gras is almost here, and it’s time for the Phunny Phorty Phellows. This band of satirical masked individuals will turn the St. Charles streetcar line into their own private parade route. If you stand in the right spot, you can catch two “parades” at once as the Phunny Phorty Phellows and the Société Des Champs-Élysées intersect each other at Canal Street between Carondolet and Rampart. Get in the carnival spirit and have a good time.
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PCA Rodeo Finals January 11 - 13
La Société Pas Si Secrète Des Champs-Élysée January 6 Bal Masque The Sugar Mill: 1021 Convention Center Blvd. Friday, January 18, and Saturday, January 19: Times vary balmasque.linkstryjewski.org Kick off carnival and support a great cause. This masquerade party is unlike any other in New Orleans, featuring great music and even better chefs. With live music from RAM, Vermillionaires, Cha Wa, and more, this event will definitely broaden your musical horizons and is surely something to add to your holiday plans. You’ll come for the music but stay for the food, as worldrenowned chefs like Donald Link, Nina Compton, and many more whip up somethin’ to get those taste buds jumpin’. This one-of-a-kind event helps support the Link Stryjewski Foundation, which aims to nourish, educate, and empower youth in New Orleans. Krewe of Stars Jefferson Performing Arts Center: 6400 Airline Dr., Metairie Saturday, January 26: 8:00 p.m. kreweofstars.com/show-ball-2019 Join Chris Owens, Angela Hill, Al Johnson, Irma Thomas, and a slew of other local celebrities for the Krewe of Stars Ball. Don’t miss this chance to interact with some of the people who help make New Orleans what it is. And you’re sure to enjoy the special variety show where all sorts of hilarity will ensue.
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MUSICCALENDAR
Be sure to check out our new interactive concert calendar at WhereYat.com! Session Three Muses- Raphael et Pascal, the Clementines
ArtistProjectNOLATakeover Hip-hop superstars Fetty Wap, Gucci Mane, Machine Gun Kelly, Desiigner, and New Orleans’s own Mannie Fresh will shut down the Orpheum Theater for the Swisher Sweets Artist Project NOLA Takeover. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime hip-hop showcase. Friday, December 28, 9:00 p.m. $50 - $100. The Orpheum Theater, orpheumnola.com Friday, December 21 Ace Hotel (Three Keys) - Big Easy Brawlers, G-Cue: Prince vs. Michael Jackson Buffa’s - Dave Jordan, Sybil Shanell Bullet’s- Original Pinettes Brass Band Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Linnzi Zaorski, Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers Gattuso’s-Will Iseman Hi-Ho Lounge- the River Dragon, Funky Sole NOLA feat. DJ Shane Love House of Blues - Home For The Holidays- New Orleans Center for Creative Arts Benefit Howlin Wolf (the Den)- Terry McDermmott Howlin Wolf (the Porch)- Fred LeBlanc Jazz Playhouse- Joe Crown, Cyril Neville and Swamp Funk, Tease the Season Burlesque Ballroom ft. Trixie Minx with Romy Kaye Kerry Irish Pub- Chip Wilson, Paintbox with Dave James and Time Robertson Le Bon Temps - Hash Cabbage Little Gem Saloon- Mo Fess Professor Longhair’s 100th Birthday New Orleans Jazz Market- Holiday Songbook with Adonis Rose and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra Oak Wine Bar - Lynn Drury Old Point - Rebel Roadside Preservation Hall- Nat King Cole Halliday with David L. Harris, Preservation Legacy Band feat. Wendell Brunious, Preservation All-Stars feat. Will Smith Siberia- Alex McMurray’s 50thBirthday Party feat. Happy Talk Band, Klezmer All-Stars, Alex McMurray Band SideBar NOLA- Papa Mali Snug Harbor- Ellis Marsalis Quintet Starlight- Michael Watson and the Alchemy Three Muses- Royal Roses, Doro Wat Jazz Band Tipitina’s - Flow Tribe Saturday, December 22 Ace Hotel- the Essentials Holiday Show Buffa’s- Christmas Spirits and Singing with Andre Bohren, Sansone, Krown and Fohl Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Frog and Henry, Tuba Skinny, New Breed Brass Band Gattuso’s- Joey Winters’ School of Music Christmas Recital, Neaux Dice
Jazz Playhouse- Joe Krown, Chucky C and Clearly Blue Kerry Irish Pub- Mike Kerwin and Geoff Coats, the One Tailed Three Little Gem Saloon- Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers Mahalia Jackson Theater- Delta Festival Ballet present The Nutcracker Old Point Bar- Gal Holiday and the Honky Tonk Revue One Eyed Jacks- Where Yacht: Deck the Hall and Oates Orpheum Theater- New Orleans Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker Preservation Hall- Nat King Cole Halliday with David L. Harris, Preservation Brass with Kevin Louis, Preservation All-Stars feat. Rickie Monie Red Gravy Café- Spider Murphy Snug Harbor- Masakowski Christmas Show Starlight- Flamenco with John Lawrence and Ven Pa’CA, Shawan Rice Three Muses- Chris Christy, Russel Welch, Shotgun Jazz Band Tipitina’s- Big Sam’s Christmas Jam Sunday, December 23 Ace Hotel- Marc Stone Band Buffa’s- Some Like It Hot, Steve Pistorius Quartet Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Circle Bar- Dick Deluxe, Blind Texas Marlin, Micah McKee and friends Christmas Party Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Palmetto Bug Stompers, Soul Brass Band Dragon’s Den- Open Jam Session with Anuraag Pendyal, Beats Per Minute Howlin’ Wolf (the Den)- Hot 8 Brass Band Jazz Playhouse- Germaine Bazzle Kermit’s Mother-in-Law Lounge- Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers Kerry Irish Pub- Christmas Carols with Robert Wagner and Chip Wilson Mahalia Jackson Theater- Delta Festival Ballet present The Nutcracker Preservation Hall- Preservation Legacy Band feat. Gregg Stafford, Preservation All-Stars feat. Wendell Brunious Snug Harbor- Jason Marsalis and 21stCentury Trad Band Southport Hall- Marc Broussard Starlight- Dile Que NOLA, Gabrielle Cavassa Jazz
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Monday, December 24 Ace Hotel- Firebird: A Soulful Christmas with Robin Barnes and friends Bacchanal- Raphael Bas Buffa’s- Holiday Movie Marathon Circle Bar- Dem Roach Boyz, Gene Black and friends Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat Hi-Ho Lounge- Bluegrass Pickin’ Party feat. Victoria Coy, Matt Slusher and Mark Andrews, Americana Music Series Jazz Playhouse- Gerald French and the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Preservation Hall- Creole Christmas Show Starlight- Modern Jazz Mondays with Maude Callait Three Keys (Ace Hotel)- Firebird: A Soulful Christmas with Robin Barnes and friends Tropical Isle Bayou Club- Cajun Drifters Tuesday, December 25 Circle Bar- Deepakalypse, A Very Dummy Dumpster Xmas Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat Funky Pirate- Blues Masters Hi-Ho Lounge- CommonTone Music Series Howlin’ Wolf (the Den)- Comedy Beast Jazz Playhouse- James Rivers Movement Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop- Lucky Lee Preservation Hall- Preservation Legacy Band feat. Wendell Brunious, Preservation All-Stars with Charlie Gabriel Trinity Episcopal Church- Organ and Labyrinth with Albinas Prizgintas Wednesday, December 26 Bacchanal- Raphael Bas, Jesse Morrow Trio Buffa’s- Open Mic Night with Nattie Sanchez Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Candlelight Lounge- Andrews Brass Band Carousel Bar (Hotel Monteleone)- James Martin Band Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Tin Men, Walter “Wolfman” Washington and the Roadmasters Davenport Lounge (Ritz-Carlton)- Jeremy Davenport Hi-Ho Lounge- Delta Revues, Soul2Soul Jazz Playhouse- Alicia “Blue Eyes” Renee Kerry Irish Pub- Chip Wilson Preservation Hall- Joe Lastie’s New Orleans Sound, Preservation All-Stars feat. Kevin Louis Saenger Theatre- Moscow Ballet presents Great Russian Nutcracker Santos Bar- Swamp Moves with Russel Welch Quartet Snug Harbor- Uptown Jazz Orchestra with Delfeayo Marsalis Starlight- Anuraag Pendyal, Tuba Skinny, Hot Jazz Jam with Nahum Zdybel Three Muses- Leslie Martin Thursday, December 27 Buffa’s- Leslie Cooper and Music Street Jazz Band, Tom McDermmott and Marla Dixon Bullet’s- Shamar Allen and the Underdawgs Café Beignet (Musical Legends Park): Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Circle Bar- Dark Lounge, Rik Slave Columns Hotel- Gary Negbaur Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Alexis and the Samurai, Little Freddie King House of Blues- George Clinton and Parliament
Funkadelic Howlin’ Wolf (the Den)- Comedy Gumbeaux Jazz Playhouse- Jenna McSwain, Brass-A-Holics Kerry Irish Pub- Will Dickerson Le Bon Temps Roule- Soul Rebels Maison- Tuba Skinny, Good For Nothin’ Band, Dysfunktional Bone Preservation Hall- Preservation Legacy Band feat. Gregg Stafford, Preservation All-Stars feat. Lucien Barbarin Siberia- Eastern Bloc Party: Balkanique SideBar NOLA- Charles Lumar, Doug Garrison and Anthony Cuccia Snug Harbor- John Ellis Quintet Southport Hall- Traveller: A Concert Tribute to Chris Stapleton feat. Justin Molaison, Chad Schell, Ray Ganucheau, John Herbert Starlight- Oscar Rossignoli, Valerie Sassafrass Three Muses- Tom McDermott, Mia Borders Vaughan’s Lounge- Corey Henry and the Treme Funktet Friday, December 28 Three Keys (Ace Hotel)- Raj Smoove Buffa’s- Marc Stone, Walter “Wolfman” Washington and Steve DeTroy Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Smoking Time Jazz Club, Corey Henry and the Treme Funktet Davenport Lounge (Ritz-Carlton)- Jeremy Davenport Gattuso’s- Aaron Foret House of Blues (the Parish)- Gentlemen Commoners: Smith Tribute House of Blues- George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic Jazz Playhouuse- Joe Krown, Shannon Powell Quartet, Tease the Season Burlesque Ballroom feat. Trixie Minx with Romy Kaye Kerry Irish Pub- Patrick Cooper, Kennedy Kuntz and Vincent Marini Little Gem Saloon- John Mooney and Marc Stone Old Point Bar- Rick Trolsen, Marshland Orpheum Theater- NOLA Takeover feat. Gucci Mane, Fetty Wap, Machine Gun Kelly, Desiigner, DJ Mannie Fresh Preservation Hall- Preservation Legacy Band feat. Wendell Brunious, Preservation All-Stars feat. Will Smith Saenger Theatre- Maze feat. Frankie Beverly Sidebar NOLA- Jonathan Freilich Presents Snug Harbor- Ellis Marsalis Quintet Southport Hall- Wonderwall: New Orleans Oasis Tribute feat. Terry McDermott and Justin Molasion, Me and My Friends Starlight- Shaye Cohn, Tom McDermott, Frog & Henry Three Muses- Matt Johnson, Doro Wat Jazz Band Tipitina’s- The Devon Allman Project with Duane Betts Saturday, December 29 Bacchanal- The Tangiers Combo, Red Organ Trio, Jasen Weaver Band Blue Nile- Washboard Chaz Blues Trio Buffa’s- Marla Dixon Blues Project, Molly Reeves and Nahum Zdybel Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Frog and Henry, Tuba Skinny, Dirty Dozen Brass Band Davenport Lounge (Ritz-Carlton)- Jeremy Davenport Gattuso’s- The Strays House of Blues- Bustout Burlesque Jazz Playhouse- Joe Krown, Nayo Jones Experience
Kerry Irish Pub- Beth Patterson, Van Hudson and Will Dickerson Old Point Bar- Maid of Orleans One Eyed Jacks- Allman Brothers Tribute Polo Club Lounge- John Royen, Robin Barnes Portside Lounge- NOLA New Wave Punk Reunion feat. Sex Dog Preservation Hall- Preservation Brass with Mark Braud, Preservation All-Stars feat. Rickie Monie Saenger Theatre- Maze feat. Frankie Beverly Siberia- Loose Cattle SideBar NOLA- Jimmy Robinson and Michael Sinkus Starlight- Keith Burnstein, Flamenco with John Lawrence and Ven Pa’CA, Shawan Rice Three Muses- Christ Christy, Arsene DeLay, Shotgun Jazz Band Tipitina’s- the Main Squeeze, Chris Royal and Dark Matter Sunday, December 30 AllWays Lounge- Swamp Donkeys Traditional Jass Band Buffa’s- Some Like It Hot, Fr. Ron and frieinds, Steve Pistorius Quartet Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Circle Bar- Dick Deluxe, Micah McKee, Blind Texas Marlin Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Palmetto Bug Stompers, Lightnin’ Malcom, Deltaphonic Dos Jefes- Rick Trolsen and the Po’boys Howlin’ Wolf (the Den)- Hot 8 Brass Band Jazz Playhouse- Germaine Bazzle Kermit’s Mother-in-Law Lounge- Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers Kerry Irish Pub- Lynn Drury Preservation Hall- Preservation Legacy Band feat. Gregg Stafford, Preservation All-Stars feat. Wendell Brunious Starlight- Tango hosted by Valerie Hart, Gabrielle
Cavassa and friends Ace Hotel- Marc Stone Band Three Muses- Raphael et Pascal, the Clementines Tipitina’s- Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers Monday, December 31 Bacchanal- Raphael Bas Buffa’s- Arsene DeLay, Dayna Kurtz and Robert Mache, Candace Mache Café Beignet- Steamboat Willie Jazz Band Civic Theatre- DJ Soul Sister’s New Year’s Eve Soul Train Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Hot 8 Brass Band Dos Jefes- Sunpie and the Louisiana Sunspots House of Blues- Zebra Howlin’ Wolf- Rebirth Brass Band Jazz Playhouse: New Year’s Eve Special with Michael Watson feat. Nayo Jones Kerry Irish Pub- Beth Patterson, Van Hudson and Will Dickerson Little Gem Saloon- Kermit Ruffins and the BBQ Swingers Mardi Gras World- NYE with the Revivalists, Tank and the Bangas One Eyed Jacks- Boyfriend Palm Court Jazz Café- New Year’s Eve Gala Special Preservation Hall- Preservation Jazz Masters feat. Leroy Jones, Hall Lang Syne Foundation Benefit Show Siberia- United Bakery Records Ball feat. People Museum, Julie Odell, Tasche and the Psychedelic Roses, DJ Heelturn Snug Harbor- Topsy Chapman and Solid Harmony Starlight- Modern Jazz Mondays with Maude Callait, Hot Jazz New Year’s Eve Ball Three Muses- Monty Banks, Salvatore Geloso Tipitina’s- Galactic New Year’s Eve Tropical Isle - Tropical Isle’s New Year’s Eve
WhereY'acht Bounce your way into the new year with famed New Orleans musicians Where Y’acht and DJ Tony Skratchere, while enjoying the “yacht bounce” craze found in the Big Easy. Dressing like a sailor is encouraged, and you may even win some prizes. Monday, December 31, 9:00 p.m. $50 - $100. Three Keys at Ace Hotel, threekeysnola.com Celebration Tuesday, January 1 Buffa’s - New Years Brunch w/ Some Like It Hot Jazz Band; Tacos, Tequila, & Tiaras w/ Vanessa Carr Circle Bar - The Resource Network, Big Hog Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Dinosaurchestra, Treme Brass Band Howlin’ Wolf - Comedy Beast Jazz Playhouse - The James Rivers Movement
Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Preservation Hall - Big Shot Snug Harbor - John Mahoney Big Band Wednesday, January 2 Buffa’s - World’s Most Open Mic Night w/ Nattie Circle Bar - The Iguanas, Jean Bertrand Columns Hotel - Kathleen Moore Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Tin Men, Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 27
Roadmasters Dos Jefes - Carl LeBlanc & Ellen Smith House of Blues - Jet Lounge in the Parish Jazz Playhouse - Big Sam’s Crescent City Connection Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper Maple Leaf - Rebirth Brass Band One Eyed Jacks - Vixens & Vinyl Preservation Hall - Big Shot Snug Harbor - Delfeayo Marsalis presents The Uptown Jazz Orchestra Thursday, January 3 Buffa’s - Rebecca Leigh, Harry Mayronne, Chris Wecklian; Tom McDermott & friends Circle Bar - Dark Lounge w/ Rik Slave Columns Hotel - Kathleen Moore Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Alexis & the Samurai, Funky Monkey Dos Jefes - The Todd Duke Trio House of Blues - NOLA Rocks: The Hail Mercy, Deadsled Funeral Co., Hollow City & more Howlin’ Wolf - Comedy Gumbeaux Jazz Playhouse - Brass-A-Holics Kerry Irish Pub - Denise Marie Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem Saloon - Creole String Beans One Eyed Jacks - Fast Times 80s Dance Night Preservation Hall - Big Shot Vaughn’s - Corey Henry and The Treme Funktet Friday, January 4 Buffa’s - Debbie Davis & Josh Paxton, Berthena & Joe Welnick Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - New Orleans Swinging Gypsies, Dave Jordan & NIA Dos Jefes - The Panorama Jazz Club House of Blues - Rewind 80s Party Jazz Playhouse - The Nayo Jones Experience, Burlesque Ballroom feat. Trixie Minx & Romy Kaye Kerry Irish Pub - Tim Robertson, Beth Patterson Little Gem Saloon - John Mooney & Marc Stone Maple Leaf - Swampgrease One Eyed Jacks - Run for the Shadows: A David Bowie Birthday Tribute Preservation Hall - Big Shot Saturday, January 5 Buffa’s - Krewe of SDCE King’s Brunch, Camile Baudoin & Brint Anderson, Mike Doussan Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Tuba Skinny, Little Freddie King Dos Jefes - The Betty Shirley Band House of Blues - House Of The Young, Departure: The Journey Tribute Band Jazz Playhouse - Shannon Powell Quartet Kerry Irish Pub - Beth Patterson, Roux The Day Little Gem Saloon - Topsy Chapman Maple Leaf - Ari Tietel One Eyed Jacks - Fleur De Tease Burlesque Preservation Hall - Big Shot Tipitina’s - Delta Revelry Sunday, January 6 Buffa’s - Jazz Brunch w/ Some Like It Hot, Pfirst Sunday Pfister Sisters, 12th Night w/ Davis Rogan & Al “Carnival Time” Johnson Columns Hotel - Chip Wilson Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - The Palmetto Bug Stompers House of Blues - Gospel Brunch Howlin’ Wolf - Hot 8 Brass Band Jazz Playhouse - Germaine Bazzle Kerry Irish Pub - Will Dickerson Little Gem Saloon - Gospel Brunch w/ Cynthia Girtley One Eyed Jacks - Fleur De Tease Burlesque Preservation Hall - Big Shot Vaughn’s - The Storeyville Stompers
Monday, January 7 Buffa’s - Arsene DeLay & Antoine Diel Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - John Boutte, Soul Brass Band Jazz Playhouse - Gerald French & The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Kermit’s Treme Mother-in-Law Lounge - Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield, & Cirque du Freque Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper Maple Leaf - George Porter Jr. Trio One Eyed Jacks - Blind Texas Marlin Preservation Hall - Big Shot Tuesday, January 8 Buffa’s - Meryl Zimmerman Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Dinosaurchestra, Treme Brass Band Howlin’ Wolf - Comedy Beast Jazz Playhouse - The James Rivers Movement Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Little Gem Saloon - Margie Perez Maple Leaf - Rebirth Brass Band Preservation Hall - Big Shot Wednesday, January 9 Buffa’s - World’s Most Open Mic Night w/ Nattie Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Tin Men, Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters House of Blues - Jet Lounge in The Parish Jazz Playhouse - Big Sam’s Crescent City Connection Kerry Irish Pub - Beth Patterson Little Gem Saloon - Woman Crush Wednesday w/ Anais St. John Maple Leaf - Radio Zydeco One Eyed Jacks - Vixens & Vinyl Preservation Hall - Big Shot Tipitina’s - Donna The Buffalo Thursday, January 10 Buffa’s - Tender Moments w/ Andre Bohren & Harry Hardin; Tom McDermott & Aurora Nealand Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Alexis & the Samurai Howlin’ Wolf - Comedy Gumbeaux Jazz Playhouse - Brass-A-Holics Kerry Irish Pub - Chip Wilson Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem Saloon - Steve Mignano Band Maple Leaf - The Trio Preservation Hall - Big Shot Tipitina’s - Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen Vaughn’s - Corey Henry and The Treme Funktet Friday, January 11 Buffa’s - Lynn Drury, H G Breland Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a - Hot Club of New Orleans, Mike Dillon Gasa Gasa- Lincoln Durhan Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper, Will Dickerson & friends New Orleans Jazz Museum - Danny Barker Festival presents The Arrowhead Jazz Band feat. Bruce Brackman House of Blues - LOUMUZIK Live Jazz Playhouse - The Nayo Jones Experience, Burlesque Ballroom feat. Trixie Minx & Romy Kaye Little Gem Saloon - Rechelle Cook & the Regeneration Band, Luther Dickinson & Johnny Vidacovich One Eyed Jacks - DJ Soul Sister Presents: Soulful Takeover Preservation Hall - Big Sho Saturday, January 12 Buffa’s- Saturday Jazz Brunch, Freddie Blue and the Friendship Circle, Musee Musique Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Tuba Skinny, Brass-A-Holics
28 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
JustinTimberlake Grammy-Award winner and NSYNC heartthrob Justin Timberlake brings his The Man of The Woods Tour to New Orleans. He’s sure to have you in awe of his amazing vocals and smooth dance moves. Come check out this unforgettable show. Tuesday, January 15, 7:30 p.m. $139 - $1700. The Smoothie King Center. smoothiekingcenter.com House of Blues- Burlesque! The Sweet Spot: Masquerade Edition Kerry Irish Pub - Denise Marie, Hurricane Refugees Little Gem Saloon- Kermit Ruffins & The BBQ Swingers Maison- Chance Bushman & Ibervillianaires, Eight Dice Cloth, Smoking Time Jazz Club, Mainline, Next Leve nightclub Experience Saturday’s Maple Leaf - Queens Ball New Orleans Jazz Museum - Danny Barker Festival presents Tom McDermott, Mari Watanabe, Wendell Brunious & more The Jazz Playhouse- Cyril Neville & Swamp Funk Tipitina’s - The Soul Rebels Sunday, January 13 Buffa’s- Jazz Brunch w/ Some Like It Hot; Al Farrell, Steve Pistorius Jazz Quartet Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- The Palmetto Bug Stompers House of Blues- Gospel Brunch, Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven Kerry Irish Pub - Beth Patterson Little Gem Saloon- Gospel Brunch w/ Cynthia Girtley Maison- Swingin’ Jazz Brunch with Chance Bushman & The NOLA Jitterbugs featuring Nancy Zee & Lisa Casper, Opulence Hour Burlesque, Tuba Skinny, Elevated: A loungey Sunday Spot, Higher Heights New Orleans Jazz Museum - Danny Barker Festival presents Steve Pistorius, Leroy Jones, Mark Brooks & more One Eyed Jacks - King Tuff with Stonefield Tipitina’s - Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band & David Doucet The Jazz Playhouse- Germaine Bazzle Monday, January 14 Buffa’s- Arsene DeLay, Antoine Diel Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Soul Brass Band Kermit’s Treme Mother-in-Law Lounge - Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield, & Cirque du Freque Kerry Irish Pub - Denise Marie Maison- Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & The Royal Roses, Sierra Green and the Soul Machine The Jazz Playhouse- Gerald French & The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Tuesday, January 15 Buffa’s- Vanessa Carr Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat
d.b.a- Dinosaurchestra, Treme Brass Band Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Little Gem Saloon- Margie Perez,Nola Stockholm Syndrome (upstairs) Maison- Gregory Agid Quartet, Gene’s Music Machine Maple Leaf - Rebirth Brass Band The Jazz Playhouse- The James Rivers Movement Wednesday, January 16 Buffa’s- World’s Most Open Mic Night w/ Nattie Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Tin Men, Walter Wolfman Washington & the Roadmasters House of Blues (The Parish)- Jet Lounge Kerry Irish Pub - Chip Wilson Little Gem Saloon- Anais St. John Maison- Reid Poole’s Boppin’ 5, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, B Miller Zone The Jazz Playhouse- Michael Watson & The Alchemy Thursday, January 17 Buffa’s- Rebecca Leigh, Harry Mayronne and Leslie Cooper, Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Alexis & the samurai, Little Freddie King Circle Bar - Tim Higgins Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Little Gem Saloon- Sam Price and the True Believers Maison- The Good For Nothin’ Band, Royal Street Winding Boys, ROUGE- A Neo-Vintage Dance Party with Southern Dynasty DJs, Dysfunktional Bone Tipitina’s - The Radiators The Jazz Playhouse- Brass-A-Holics Vaughn’s - Corey Henry and The Treme Funktet Friday, January 18 Buffa’s- Jamie Bernstein and Dave Easley, Gregg Molinario Project Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Smoking Time Jazz Club, Sweet Crude House of Blues- Bricks In The Wall: the sight and sound of Pink Floyd Kerry Irish Pub - Hugh Morrison, Lynn Drury Little Gem Saloon- New Orleans Mystics Maison- The Rhythm Stompers, New Orleans Swinging Gypsies, Shotgun Jazz Band One Eyed Jacks - Jon Spencer & The HITmakers Tipitina’s - The Radiators
The Jazz Playhouse- Chucky C & Clearly Blue, Burlesque Ballroom featuring Trixie Minx & Jazz Vocals By Romy Kaye Saturday, January 19 Buffa’s- The Royal Rounders, Asylum Chorus Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings Gasa Gasa- Bourgeois Mystics, The Painted Hands, Hydra Plane Kerry Irish Pub - Mike Kerwin & Geoff Coats, Paintbox w/ Dave James & Tim Robertson Little Gem Saloon- Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers Maison- Chance Bushman & The Ibervillianaires, Leah Racker, Smoking Time Jazz Club, Ashton Hines & The Big Easy Brawlers, NEXT LEVEL Nightclub Experience Saturday’s One Eyed Jacks - Amen Dunes Tipitina’s - The Radiators The Jazz Playhouse- The Nayo Jones Experience Sunday, January 20 Buffa’s- Jazz Brunch with Some Like it Hot, Lil Coquette, Steve Pistorius Jazz Quartet Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- The Palmetto Bug Stompers, Eric Tessmer House of Blues- Gospel Brunch Kerry Irish Pub - Denise Marie Little Gem Saloon- Gospel Brunch w/ Cynthia Girtley Maison- Swingin’ Jazz Brunch with Chance Bushman & The NOLA Jitterbugs featuring Nancy Zee & Lisa Casper, Bon Bon Viviant, Opulence Hour Burlesque, Elevated: A loungey Sunday Spot, Higher Height Tipitina’s - Perpetual Groove The Jazz Playhouse- Germaine Bazzle Monday, January 21 Buffa’s- Arsene DeLay, Antoine Diel
Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- John Boutte’, Soul Brass Band House of Blues- Young Dolph Kermit’s Treme Mother-in-Law Lounge - Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield, & Cirque du Freque Kerry Irish Pub - Patrick Cooper Maison- Chicken & Waffles, Aurora Nealand & The Royal Roses, Sierra Green and the Soul Machine Maple Leaf - George Porter Jr. Trio The Jazz Playhouse- Gerald French & The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band Tuesday, January 22 Buffa’s- Tom Worrell Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Dinosaurchestra, Treme Brass Band Kerry Irish Pub - Jason Bishop Little Gem Saloon- Nola Dukes Maison- Gregory Agid Quartet, Gene’s Music Machine The Jazz Playhouse- The James River Movement Wednesday, January 23 Buffa’s- World’s Most Open Mic Night w/ Nattie Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat d.b.a- Tin Men, Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters House of Blues(The Parish)- Jet Lounge Gasa Gasa- Parker Gispert Kerry Irish Pub - Chip Wilson Little Gem Saloon- Nola Project Stockholm Syndrome Maison- Jazmarae Beebe, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, RnR Music Group The Jazz Playhouse- Chucky C & Clearly Blue Thursday, January 24 Buffa’s- Andre Bohren, Tom McDermott and Aurora Nealand Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat
Cracker Cracker has been in the game a long time and continues to amass hit after hit. These music-industry veterans will perform some of their greatest hits and a few new songs you may not have heard yet. Sunday, January 13, 6:00 p.m. $35. House of Blues. houseofblues.com/neworleans d.b.a- Jon Cleary, Sam Price & the True Believers Gasa Gasa- Drama Kerry Irish Pub - Beth Patterson Le Bon Temps Roule - The Soul Rebels Maison- The Good For Nothin’ Band, Tuba Skinny, ROUGE- A Neo-Vintage Dance Party with Southern Dynasty DJs, Dysfunktional Bone Tipitina’s - The Devil Makes Three The Jazz Playhouse- Brass-A-Holics Vaughn’s - Corey Henry and The Treme Funktet
Friday, January 25 Buffa’s- Banu Gibson and Raynel Shepard, Larry Scala’s Blue Five Crescent City Brewhouse - New Orleans Streetbeat House of Blues- Cherub Kerry Irish Pub - Tim Robertson, Van Hudson & friends Little Gem Saloon- Germaine Bazzle and the Peter Harris Trio Maison- The Rhythm Stompers, New Orleans Swinging Gypsies, Shotgun Jazz Band, Buena Vista
+ MORE
New Orleans, LA _ Lakefront Arena _ 1.31.19
Step into Spotlights with us prior to the event and enjoy our exclusive lounge with private entry, complimentary premium bar and light hors d’ourves. Tickets for Spotlights can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com or at the Box Office.
January 16..............................................................................UNO Privateer Basketball January 26....... Old Skool Funk Party with The SOS Band, Lakeside & ConFunkShun January 31..........................................................................Winter Jam 2019 – Tour 360 February 9............................................................................. UNO Privateer Basketball March 13 - 17.......... Sun Belt Conference Men & Women’s Basketball Championship March 23...................................................................Funny As Ish Tour with Mike Epps May 2 - 5............................................... Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, Lakefront Arena Box Office, or charge by phone at 800-745-3000.
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 29
Food News By Kim Ranjbar
Turkey rising … Chef/owner Mason Hereford and the rest of the team behind Turkey and the Wolf, the hit sandwich shop on Jackson Avenue, have just opened their highly anticipated breakfast spot on Magazine Street, dubbed Molly's Rise & Shine. Named after Hereford's little sister, Molly's features fun dishes made in the same creative spirit as its brother Turkey and the Wolf. Try the Deviled Egg Tostada with collard greens and peanut salad, Roasted Carrot Yogurt with fresh berries and house-made granola, and my personal favorite (a sandwich that was briefly featured at Turkey and the Wolf), the Grand Slam Muffin, with two pork sausage patties, hash browns, and American cheese on a huge English muffin. Molly's Rise & Shine is Waki n' open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day but Tuesday. 2368 Magazine St., (504)302-1896, mollysriseandshine.com Breakfast is the new black … Laid-back Mid-City breakfast spot Wakin' Bakin' has opened a second location on Prytania Street
Molly's Rise & Shine
BEST
BARTENDER
CONGRATULATIONS TO VICTORIA PISARELLO FROM FELIPE’S UPTOWN ON WINNING THE SKYY VODKA BEST BARTENDER OF NEW ORLEANS CONTEST HOSTED BY WHERE Y’AT MAGAZINE! FELIPESTAQUERIA.COM • #FELIPESFIESTA
30 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
in the building that formerly housed the restaurant Coulis and the Bluebird Café. This second location features the menu you know and love from the Banks Street location, with items like the Big John sausage and cheddar biscuit, sold with a cuppa joe for $5, and the Gravy Train, with sausage gravy-smothered biscuits served with bacon and eggs. Wakin' Bakin' Prytania is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. 3625 Prytania St., (504) 534-5698, wakinbakin. com That's one hot bonnet! … The Lower Garden District can add another vegan option to its roster with Bonnets NOLA, a vegan (and nonvegan) Caribbean/ soul food joint that opened on Magazine Street. Located in a building that housed such restaurants as ' n i Bak Jackson and, more recently, Roux Public House, Bonnets NOLA offers dishes like Jerk Rolls with gouda and collards, conch fritters with remoulade or jerk ranch sauce, smothered oxtail, curried goat, and fried chicken. Sides range from crawfish mac to steamed cabbage to candied yams. Bonnets NOLA is open daily
Empanola
for lunch and dinner. 1910 Magazine St., (504) 8271959, facebook.com/BonnetsNOLA-256213845044195/ A lacy roch? … The newest vendor at St. Roch Market is Doily, created by local chef and sommelier Deven Dawson. This most recent adventure showcases a “simple, but eclectic collection of sweet and savory sandwiches, salads, and desserts with a whimsical flair.” Try a cup of tomato basil soup with Black and Bleu Steak Sandwich, with blackened tenderloin, purple grapes, and bleu cheese on toasted French bread, or a turkey and artichoke sandwich on sourdough. 2381 St. Claude Ave., doilynola.com, neworleans.strochmarket.com Mmmore meat pies! … Empanola, the creative meat pie vendor at St. Roch Market, now has its own digs on Freret Street near Tulane University. Located in what was formerly a hair salon, the tiny space is pretty much a grab-and-go with a couple of tables for the lucky ones. Their menu features inspired meat pies, with fillings like crawfish etouffée, gumbo, shrimp and cheese, ratatouille, beef bourguignon, and salmon with leeks. Empanola also offers a few salads and soups, like gazpacho and tomato basil, fine accompaniments for any savory pastry they serve. Empanola is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
7321 Freret St., (504) 249-5977, empanolaempanadas.com This java's jumpin' … French Truck Coffee, the wildly popular small-batch roaster with the signature bright-yellow Citroën truck, has just launched their fourth New Orleans location, on Magazine Street in the Garden District. Taking over the former CC's Coffee House space, the new café features French Truck's special brews and pastries. The company is planning its fifth opening soon, downtown on Poydras. It's possible that before long, the whole world will be bright yellow and extremely well-caffeinated. 2917 Magazine St., frenchtruckcoffee. com Who's your daddy? … Chef Todd Pulsinelli is heading up Warbucks, the latest creation by BRG Hospitality. Occupying the space that was formerly Amici Ristorante & Bar, Warbucks is a funky new diner embracing two very different cultures—rap and skateboarding—both of Pulsinelli's beloved hobbies—and they also serve food! The menu offers things like smoked double-cut pork ribs with achiote and mirliton pickles, corn dog “elote,” lacquered pork belly, and grilled mahi with oxtail sauce and hash browns. Warbucks is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 3218 Magazine St., (504) 309-5260, warbucksnola.com
Warbucks WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 31
Carrollton Market's Brunch Burger
20 and Under
$
Burger Resolve
Welcome in 2019 With Our New Years Eve Prix Fixe 5-Course Dinner Two Dinner Times: 6:30pm and 9:30pm
Limited Seats Available. Call or visit OpenTable.com to reserve! Eat, Drink and Relax at Apolline Exquisite cuisine, accessibly priced wines and handcrafted cocktails in the relaxed charm of our Uptown double-shotgun cottage. Join us for Dinner or Brunch Tuesday - Sunday Bottomless Mimosas with Brunch
4729 Magazine Street • (504) 894-8881 • www.ApollineRestaurant.com 32 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
T
here's a commercial that airs quite often on local radio where a couple of guys are talking about where they want to go for lunch, and one of them, in a thick New Orleans accent, says, "I want a big, juicy, mouthwatering burgah, and I want it now!" Though he sounds somewhat petulant, and the ad has a tendency to grate on my nerves like fingernails on a chalkboard, I can't help but agree. I realize that January seems an unlikely month to extol the beauty of a perfect burger, especially when most people are making resolutions Wa about making this year rbu the year they shed cks's those extra pounds and start living a healthier lifestyle. But I don't believe any month is a bad month for a burger. You only live once, right? Therefore, I resolve, like the man in the commercial, to give into my cravings once in a while and
By Kim Ranjbar
have that “juicy burgah”—and I know just where to find it. Recently opened on Magazine Street, Warbucks is a hip new diner by BRG Hospitality with fine dining-trained chef Todd Pulsinelli heading the grill. Among creative dishes like shrimp rings with cocktail sauce, smoked octopus and red beans, and crab fat coleslaw, you will find “This Burger,” featuring two beef patties topped with Swiss, pickled red onion, and red wine foie gras butter, all on a poppy seed bun. At $13, it's a costly burger, but not so steep that you couldn't swing a side of shoestring fries for $5 more and still walk " out under budget. er g Owned and operated r by friends Chien Nguyen "This Bu and Nhat Nguyen (not related), both of whom used to work at Namese, Fharmacy is located inside a raised blackand-gold shotgun house-turned-restaurant on Banks Street, featuring a casual, bar-
like atmosphere often populated with a smattering of die-hard regulars. Their tagline is “We got the cure for your craving,” and let me tell you, they are right! With mussels, boudin balls, tacos, and meat pies, Fharmacy covers everyone's bases, especially if what you're craving happens to be a burger. Choose from six different options, like the Fharmacy Burger topped with a house giardiniera, bacon jam, and provolone or a vegan Portobello Burger with alfalfa sprouts and mixed greens. My personal favorite is the Dr. Seuss, with avocado aioli, grilled ham, Swiss, and a fried egg. All of their burgers are served on a brioche bun with fries and a pickle, with none breaching the $13 mark, though that number could jump if you decide to build
your own. In the Riverbend, you can head to Carrollton Market on Hampson Street, owned and operated by talented chef Jason Goodenough, who is regularly dazzling diners with dishes like crabmeat-stuffed Piquillo peppers and smoky pork belly confit with baked cheese grits and pepper jelly. But if you swing by for brunch on the weekend, you should definitely try his burger. Using Texas beef from 44 Farms, this juicy burger is topped with a bacon-onion jam, sharp cheddar cheese, and a fried egg on a toasted and buttered challah bun (from Gracious Bakery) and served with house-cut fries all for $16. Just a hop and a jump away over at
r Fh arm ge r u acy' s Dr. Seuss B
the end of Oak Street lies Cowbell, a gas station-turned restaurant owned and operated by California-native Chef Brack May. It's been nearly eight years that he's been in business at the edge of Orleans Parish, and among other dishes, like grilled Gulf fish tacos and his signature mac 'n' cheese, the featured item has always been his burger. Dubbed the “Locally World Famous Cowbell Burger,” this beauty reminds me of a backyard creation, with one incredibly thick and juicy patty topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, their housemade ketchup, and “agogo” sauce (roasted garlic, honey, mayo, and sambal chilis) on a toasted potato roll and served with French fries for $13.95.
Finally, though it doesn't get a lot of hype, another great burger that can be devoured at a low, low cost is found at GB's Patio Bar & Grill on Maple Street. So what if the fries are frozen and the buns are store-bought? The burger is certainly worth a try, considering the meat is lovingly ground and seasoned daily from top sirloin. For only $9, you can score a lovely six-ounce burger with lettuce, tomato, and onions, served with a huge pile of fries, and for only another $1 each, you can add blue cheese, grilled onions, bacon, mushroom, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a mountainous pile of freshly shredded cheddar.
Co er wb g r ell's C heesebu
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 33
We Dat’s Chicken and Shrimp, known for their wings, wraps, and shrimp, serves up simple yet delicious iterations of Southern comfort food. Sample their large array of sauces, and don’t miss their Brow Special: two pieces of catfish, some shrimp, and a mountain of fries. Multiple Locations | wedatschickenandshrimp.com
RestaurantGuide AFRICAN Bennachin specializes in West African cuisine with a New Orleans flair. This unique restaurant offers a welcome break from the conventional meals you’ve been eating. Their specialty is taking traditional African flavors from Gambia and Cameroon and kicking them up a notch. 1212 Royal St. | 522-1230 | bennachinrestaurant.com
Willie Mae’s Scotch House knows how to make some juicy fried chicken. Since 1957, they’ve been serving up quality entrees from their short and sweet menu. Their accolades include a James Beard Award and Travel Channel’s distinction for Best Fried Chicken in America. 2401 St. Ann St. | 822-9503 | williemaesnola.com WOW Café Doubletree will have your taste buds begging for more of their wings with signature sauces, which range from spicy to sweet and tangy. Wings aside, their vast menu offers serious handhelds, like wraps, burgers, and tender ribs. 300 Canal St. | 212-3250 | wowcafe.com/stores/double-tree-new-orleans
AMERICAN Apolline, occupying a renovated double-shotgun cottage, may look rustic with its brick interior and soft lighting, but don’t be fooled; their food is far from country fare. Plus, they have bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys; need we say more? 4729 Magazine St. | 8948881 | apollinerestaurant.com Bayou Hot Wings is finger-lickin’ good. With 13 irresistible wing flavors, from sweet to beastly, there is surely something for every palate. Not into wings? Try some of their other awesome creations, like burgers or wraps. Your taste buds will thank you. 6221 S. Claiborne Ave. | 662-9933 | bayouhotwings.com Daisy Dukes is known for its Cajun Bloody Mary Mix, but they’ve also got some equally delicious, no-frills Southern classics, like po-boys, gumbo, and crawfish, to satisfy your belly. Two of their five locations are 24/7, so drop by anytime to get your fill of some good cookin’. Multiple Locations | daisydukesrestaurant.com Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant shines in the heart of Gretna. They serve something for everyone, with a large variety of dips, wraps, burgers, and daily specials. Their Dirty Bird po-boy, stuffed with turkey, roast beef, Swiss, and gravy, can’t be beat. 435 Huey P. Long Ave. | Gretna | 368-1114 | gattusos.net Gordon Biersch is taking over the handcrafted brewing scene with its German lagers and enticing entrees. They have an impressive variety of beers on tap, with a brew to pair perfectly with any dish you fancy. Their Gorgonzola Ribeye is tops on the list. 200 Poydras St. | 522-2739 | gordonbiersch.com Lakeview Harbor might take inspiration from local waters for its name, but you’ll find a lot more on the
ASIAN
WOWCaféDoubletree menu than just seafood. They have a huge selection of burgers and sandwiches, along with juicy steaks and Southern comfort food. Check out their delectable daily specials. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd. | 486-4887 | lakeviewharbor.us Liberty Cheesesteaks is invading the home of the poboy, one Philly cheesesteak at a time. Founders Mike and Joe saw a vacuum in this sandwich-crazed city and filled the gap. Today, they bring us traditional cheesesteaks any native Philadelphian would approve of. 5039 Freret St. | 875-4447 | libertycheesesteaks.com Spudly's Super Spuds is a potato heaven. Whoever said potatoes were a side dish is clearly wrong. Here, the overstuffed spuds take center stage, with virtually any filling you could ever want (try the crawfish)—and don’t forget a side of their amazing Crawfish Potatoes. 2609 Harvard Ave. | Metairie | 455-3250 | spudlys.com Surrey’s Cafe & Juice Bar is known for having some of the best breakfast and brunch items in town. Highlights include the Crab Meat Omelette and Banana Pancakes; if you’re really hungry, go for the Montana Plate. Arrive early to avoid the wait! Multiple Location | 524-3828 | surreysnola.com
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Green Tea has got your back. With origins in New York City, this eatery offers great healthy options, soups, fried rice, noodles, and several dinner and lunch specials—all at an extremely reasonable price. These Chinese take-out titans will feed you in a flash. 3001 Napoleon Ave. | 899-8005 | greenteanola.com Kyoto 2, located in an unassuming strip mall, has perfected the art of sushi. These sushi mavens roll up some of the biggest, baddest rolls in town. They also serve plenty of other options for those non-sushi fans, such as chicken teriyaki, shrimp tempura, and udon soup. 5608 Citrus Blvd. | Harahan | 818-0228 | facebook. com/Kyoto2Nola Mikimoto offers delicious sushi with the flavor of New Orleans in each bite. Who’d pass up the chance to try a taste of Carrollton with the South Carrollton Roll or the city’s beloved sandwich in sushi form with the Poboy Roll? 3301 S. Carrollton Ave. | 488-1881 | mikimotosushi. com Miyako Hibachi & Sushi Bar is known for its entertaining hibachi chefs and ample seating and is a great spot for large groups. Their sushi menu has many delicious options, like the Spicy Crawfish Roll. Try one of their excellent cocktails from the bar to go along with your meal. 1403 St. Charles Ave. | 410-9997 | miyakonola.com Origami may be a paper-folding art, but here it takes
the form of an artfully crafted sushi roll. This spot is a favorite of Tulane students and Uptowners alike. Make sure to save room for dessert, because you can’t get their delicious Banana Tempura or Lychee Ice Cream anywhere else. 5130 Freret St. | 899-6532 | sushinola.com Viet Orleans offers far more than your typical Vietnamese restaurant does. The menu is full of phở’, bánh mi and noodle bowls, and features an entire page dedicated to their amazing sushi. Viet Orleans insists on using the freshest and best ingredients for a memorable dining experience. 300 Baronne St. | 333-6917 BARS WITH GREAT FOOD Backspace Bar & Kitchen is about as close as you can get to eating in a library. Whether you are a foodie or a bookworm, this spot is bookmark-worthy. Try the Whitman Roast Beef or the Hemingway Cuban if you want to channel your inner author. 139 Chartres St. | 322-2245 | backspacenola.com Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant is a staple in the New Orleans jazz community and also serves up some soulful food. The menu is loaded with amazing choices, so you may want to get one of everything. They’re also open 24/7, so stop by anytime for any meal. 1001 Esplanade Ave. | 949-0038 | buffasbar.com Copper Vine is a wine-lover’s dream and the perfect place to unWINEd after a long day. With everything from small plates to delicious burgers, there’s definitely something to satisfy your craving. They also have over 30 wines, with some on tap, so make this your new goto post-work haunt. 1001 Poydras St. | 208-9535 | coppervinewine.com Flamingo A-Go-Go is the spot everyone seems to be flocking to these days. They feature NOLA classic eats and inventive “flocktails,” including frozen Bushwackers, frosé, and a Bloody Mary A-Go-Go with vodka, signature spices, and Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix. 869 Magazine St. | 577-2202 | flamingonola.com The Jimani is the place to be if you love sports and good food. They show virtually every game imaginable, and they have a great selection of beer and an impressive menu. Come watch a game, eat a burger, and sip a cold one in this relaxed and comfy environment. 141 Chartres St. | 524-0493 | thejimani.com Mimi’s in the Marigny is technically a bar, but when it comes to the bar food, don’t expect simple peanuts here. The menu features gourmet tapas for both vegetarians
and carnivores. You can’t go wrong with patatas bravas, duck poutine, or the ultimate shareable staple: a cheese board. 2601 Royal St. | 872-9868 | mimismarigny.com Ole Saint takes you down memory lane with Deuce McAllister’s football memorabilia, but brings you back to reality when a game is on. Watch your team, eat some delicious food, and have a local brew at this former New Orleans Saint’s watering hole. 132 Royal St. | 309-4797 | olesaint.com Orleans Grapevine, with over 375 bottled wines, is an oasis in itself. As if that weren’t enough, they’ve got Bacon Happy Hour from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. till 12 a.m. daily, when you’ll get FREE bacon with your drinks. Come for the drinks, stay for the BACON! 720 Orleans Ave. | 523-1930 | orleansgrapvine.com Shamrock Bar and Grill is all about the games—and the food. Challenge your friends to some mini-bowling, foosball, basketball, or darts at the city’s largest neighborhood bar, all while savoring their Ribeye Steak with Mashed Potatoes. 4133 S. Carrollton Ave. | 3010938 | shamrockparty.com CAFÉ Café 615 Home of Dawabbit serves homestyle meals at great prices and offers daily lunch specials that are out of this world. The lima beans on Tuesdays are delicious, and the pork chop is as big as your head. There’s a reason that Café 615 was voted best restaurant on the Westbank! 615 Kepler St. | Gretna | 365-1225 | dawabbit.net Café Amelie is a favorite among local foodies as well as tourists, due to its beautiful atmosphere and courtyard setting. No other café will serve you oven-roasted salmon with horseradish cream on a bed of fingerling potatoes. Café culture never tasted better. 912 Royal St. | 4128965 | cafeamelie.com Café Carmo creates a tropical foodscape with its fresh juices, ceviches, salads, and breads inspired by Caribbean cuisine. Try their new raw bar to experience amazing flavors. Take your taste buds on an adventure with influences from all over the world. 527 Julia St. | 8754132 | cafecarmo.com Caffe! Caffe! beats all the coffee chains when it comes to baked goodies, offering up some decadent cakes, pies, and other sweets. If you don’t have a sweet tooth and are looking for a healthier option, this café also offers salads and Eat Fit selections. Two Metairie Locations | caffecaffe.com
Compère Lapin knows how to spice up a traditional menu, putting a Caribbean spin on their dishes with innovative flavors. This James Beard Award-winner is home to fantastic cocktails and some classic New Orleans dishes with Caribbean pizazz. 535 Tchoupitoulas St. | 599-2119 | comperelapin.com Jimmy J’s Café, tucked away in the French Quarter, is a small and funky café that is big and bold when it comes to Southern flavor and hospitality. If you like breakfast for dinner, try one of their French toast selections, such as the Bananas Foster variety. 115 Chartres St. | 309-9360 | jimmyjscafe.com FRENCH Café Degas has been voted one of the best French restaurants in the city and offers authentic French cuisine that is perfect for any occasion. For something really special, try the Caille Rôtie: roasted quail over baby greens, served with fresh fruit. 3127 Esplanade Ave. | 945-5635 | cafedegas.com ITALIAN Josephine Estelle, an Italian eatery run by James Beard Award nominees, knows how to make good pasta and seafood. Head on over to this gourmet establishment for some homemade noodles or delectable soft-shell crab bathed in brown butter. 600 Carondelet St. | 930-3070 | josephineestelle.com Red Gravy, a rustic Italian café, makes it okay to have cannoli, spaghetti, meatballs, and gnocchi for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Most of the tasty options are recipes passed down from generation to generation, making the dishes here homemade masterpieces. 125 Camp St. | 561-8844 | redgravycafe.com
MEXICAN
NEW ORLEANS CUISINE
Juan’s Flying Burrito lets you have Taco Tuesday every day. No matter what sort of Mexican dish you crave, the whole menu is great at Juan’s. Thirsty? They’ve got everything from margaritas to boozy lemonade to mojitos at this funky taco joint. Multiple locations | juansflyingburrito.com
Antoine’s Restaurant has been setting the standard for Creole cuisine since 1840. They also have the honor of being the inventor of the world-renowned Oysters Rockefeller. Antoine’s continues to deliver a classic FrenchCreole dining experience in a city known for just that. 713 St. Louis Ave. | 581-4422 | antoines.com
NOLA Cantina is the new kid on the block, but that doesn’t mean it’s not already standing up to the other taco heavyweights. With a menu full of flavor, there is sure to be something for everyone. The Flower Power tacos are a must. 437 Esplanade Ave. | facebook.com/ nolacantina/
Broussard’s seamlessly blends Creole and French cuisines. They’ve got all the classics, including oysters, shrimp remoulade, and turtle soup. Perfect for a night out or just a casual drink with friends, Broussard’s has something for everyone. 819 Conti St. | 581-3866 | broussards.com
MIDDLE EASTERN
City Donuts & Café has not only some of the city’s best donuts, but also fantastic New Orleans dishes, like shrimp and grits, po-boys, and more. Open 24/7, City Donuts has great locations uptown near Tulane and in the Marigny on St. Claude Avenue. Multiple locations | 372-5811 | facebook.com/pages/City-DonutsCafe/168532820654540
Lebanon’s Café, located under the shady oak trees of Uptown, offers generous portions of the Middle Eastern food that has patrons flocking from across the city. Snack on savory dishes and check out the daily lunch menu for specials. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave. | 862-6200 | lebanonscafe.com Pyramid’s Cafe may look like an American diner with its checkerboard tiles, but they serve up some seriously delicious Mediterranean dips, salads, and entrees that come with a side of hummus. They also offer a whole lamb with all of the fixings, perfect for a special occasion. 3149 Calhoun St. | 861-9602 | pyramidscafeonline. com
Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop is the definition of inconspicuous. Tucked away in a strip mall off the Causeway, this small shop is doing big things with Louisiana classics. The menu is overflowing with burgers and Creole favorites, but the many variations of gumbo make this place famous. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd. | Metairie | 835-2022 | gumbostop.com
Tavolino is a small restaurant that packs a modern Italian punch. Upscale pizzas with arugula and dates, as well as fresh chicken liver pate, are just a few examples of what this restaurant can whip up. The arancini balls are incredible and are simply a must-try. 141 Delaronde St. | 605-3365 | facebook.com/TavolinoLounge Venezia may lure you in with the promise of “pizza pie,” but they’ve got much more to offer, including a variety of pastas that range from fettuccine to stuffed shells. Along with that, their Veal Pontchartrain is sure to be your new favorite dish. 134 N. Carrollton Ave. | 488-7991 | venezianeworleans.net
Café615HomeOfDawabbit
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The Columns Hotel offers a memorable dining experience with breakfast, brunch, and an awardwinning Happy Hour. Enjoy their seasonal charcuterie and cheese combination board in the Victorian dining room or front gallery with a view of beautiful Saint Charles Avenue. 3811 St. Charles Ave. | 899-9308 | thecolums.com Coterie NOLA Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a new spot where you can enjoy some fried pickles or an alligator po-boy in a casual atmosphere where you don't need to get dressed up for a fine-dining experience. If that isn’t enough to bring you in, there’s also a Happy Hour with deals on oysters. Try yours chargrilled. 135 Decatur St. | 529-8600 | coterienola.com Crescent City Brewhouse, the French Quarter’s only microbrewery, is a drinking and dining experience for all the senses. They serve up modern takes on classic New Orleans dishes that go perfectly with one of their famous brews. 527 Decatur St. | 522-0571 | crescentictybrewhouse.com Crossroads at House of Blues is the perfect blend of food, music, and art. Their “Impossible Cheeseburger”— made up of a "burger" patty with cheese, lettuce, pickles, and a secret spread on a bun—is 100 percent vegan. Yes, it really is possible! 225 Decatur St. | 310-0499 | houseofblues.com/neworleans/menu Dick and Jenny’s is located in a cozy Creole cottage on Tchoupitoulas Street, serving upscale food with a Southern twist. Chef Merlin prides himself on “creating Cajun Creole culinary dishes with just a touch of Thai influence,” made with locally sourced ingredients. 4501 Tchoupitoulas St. | 894-9880 | dickandjennys.com The Governor salutes the city’s historical influencers and age-old recipes for lunch and dinner. You can enjoy some oysters or Shrimp Clemenceau while pondering the shortcomings of our political system. All-day brunch is also an option. 301 Chartres St. | 291-1860 | governorrestaurant.com Mandina’s knows it can be tough to choose between Italian food and Southern seafood. That’s why they’ve got the best of both worlds, saving you from debating the issue. Whether you want spaghetti and meatballs or soft-shell crab, Mandina’s has got you covered. 3800 Canal St. | 482-9179 | mandinasrestaurant.com New Orleans Cajun Cookery is keeping the city’s food traditions alive with its interpretations of the classics. Located in the Warehouse District among some of the
city’s trendiest restaurants, this spot shows that a good ol’ shrimp po-boy can still be the best meal around. 701 S. Peters St. | 985-778-2529 | facebook.com/NewOrleans-Cajun-Cookery New Orleans Creole Cookery is New Orleans cuisine at its finest. The Snapper Pontchartrain features panseared snapper topped with jumbo lump crab meat and hollandaise sauce. They’ve also got a great list of boozy beverages, like the Category 5 Hurricane. 508 Toulouse St. | 524-9632 | neworleanscreolecookery.com The Original Fiorella’s Cafe may offer a variety of New Orleans staples, but believe us, pass those up on your first visit and try some crispy fried chicken. Fiorella’s won the Fried Chicken Festival title of Best Fried Chicken two years in a row. 5325 Franklin Ave. | 309-0352 | originalfiorellas.com Parran's Po-Boys and Restaurant serves up a variety of delicious fried and grilled po-boys on fresh French bread, along with gigantic muffalettas and mouthwatering Italian dishes. With locations in Metairie, Kenner, and Uptown, Parran’s can easily satisfy your poboy hankering. Multiple locations | parranspoboys. com Public Service at the NOPSI Hotel truly serves the public with a delectable selection of seafood and modern twists on Creole classics, including Cajun poutine and their Braised Short Ribs with Wild Mushroom and Potato Ragout. 311 Baronne St. | 9626527 | publicservicenola.com Short Stop Poboys doesn’t mess around when it comes to making the city’s famed sandwich, offering the biggest po-boy menu in the city. There is sure to be something here for every craving. The menu has some delicious non-po-boy items as well. 119 Transcontinental Dr. | Metairie | 885-4572 | shortstoppoboysno.com SEAFOOD Acme Oyster House is an institution that we’re proud to claim here in New Orleans. With locations spread across the Gulf South, Acme is sharing their delightful NOLA fare far and wide. Don’t miss their Fried Peace Maker Po-Boy. Multiple Locations | acmeoyster.com Briquette offers contemporary coastal cuisine in a casual environment inside a former molasses refinery. Their open kitchen truly puts the food center stage, and their 18-foot seafood display features a variety of fresh
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AcmeOysterHouse fish. This is the perfect place for seafood-lovers. 701 S. Peters St. | 302-7496 | briquette-nola.com Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar lives up to its name. With plenty of oyster options, they’re guaranteed to appease all mollusk-lovers, whether you like them raw or fried. Be sure to check out Felix’s newest location on the lakefront, with beautiful views overlooking Lake Pontchartrain. Multiple locations | felixs.com Landry’s Seafood puts an elegant spin on seafood. You won’t find your average fried fish here; they spice it up with lemon pepper seasoning and even bacon. And if you’re missing a taste of home, they’ve got New Orleans BBQ shrimp, po-boys, and gumbo—even at their Missouri location. Multiple Locations | landrysseafood.com Poseidon is a delectable seafood restaurant and sushi bar that offers a wide array of sushi rolls, hibachi, and even karaoke. Open six days a week and serving until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Poseidon is sure to please your palate. 2100 St. Charles Ave. | 509-6675 | poseidonnola.com Seaworthy features wild-caught, local, and sustainably harvested seafood with a global flare. Enjoy a diverse menu that offers tasty seafood options, like the smoked
cobia with prosciutto and fennel. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their amazing craft cocktails. 630 Carondelet St. | 930-3071 | seaworthynola.com Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco brings a taste of Peru to the Big Easy. Featuring four authentic, traditional Peruvian dishes and other dishes with Peruvian influence, there’s sure to be something you'll love. Wash it down with their amazing handcrafted cocktails. 5015 Magazine St. |297-7612 | titoscevichepisco.com VEGAN Green Goddess focuses on the flavors of New Orleans and prides itself on selecting the best possible ingredients every time. They put just as much effort into the cocktails: Be sure to try a Liquor Ball, their boozy take on a snow ball. 307 Exchange Pl. | 301-3347 | greengoddessrestaurant.com Seed has firmly planted itself in a city known for its carnivorous diet and love of seafood and everything fried. But that’s not stopping them from sharing their version of tantalizing vegan soul food, including an eggplant po-boy, gumbo, and beignets. 1330 Prytania St. | 302-2599 | seedyourhealth.com
BarGuide
Sponsored by
Above the Grid (NOPSI Hotel) NOPSI’s dynamic rooftop pool and bar, Above the Grid, is a peaceful oasis for hotel guests, visitors, and locals to 317 Baronne St. savor chilled drinks and dine on creative, healthy fare. 844-439-1463
Alto (Ace Hotel) 600 Carondelet St. 900-1180
Offering a stunning view of New Orleans’s skyline and fantastic drinks, Ace’s rooftop bar Alto is a sanctum of relaxation in an ever-busy concrete jungle.
Backspace Bar 139 Chartres St. 322-2245
Brimming with inspiration and local color, Backspace feeds both the mind and the taste buds in an atmosphere where you can channel your inner Tennessee Williams.
Bar Tonique 820 N. Rampart St. 324-6045
A hidden gem at the edge of the French Quarter, this cozy, brick-built space offers classic cocktails and a chalkboard full of daily specials.
Boot Scootin Rodeo 522 Bourbon St. 552-2510
Boot Scootin Rodeo is as country as it comes, with plenty of honky-tonk and the refreshments to go with it, as well as the largest oak dance floor on Bourbon Street.
Buffa’s Bar & Restaurant 1001 Esplanade Ave. 949-0038
New Orleans is known for its 24/7 party scene, and Buffa’s Lounge makes sure its doors are always open— and has been doing so for almost 80 years!
Crescent City Brewhouse The first brewpub in New Orleans, Crescent City Brewhouse offers nightly live music, skillfully house527 Decatur St. brewed lagers, and monthly exhibitions of local art. 522-3901 Cosimo's Bar 1201 Burgundy St. 522-9428
A cozy neighborhood spot since 1934, Cosimo’s offers a great Happy Hour and delicious bar food options, such as mouthwatering pizzas, burgers, and wings.
Fontaine Palace 218 S. Robertson St. 525-3277
Fontaine Palace takes everything that’s expected of a bar and raises those expectations, with great music and appetizing dishes to accompany their drinks.
Gattuso’s 435 Huey P. Long Ave. 368-1114
A gem in the Gretna Historic District, Gattuso’s is the perfect place for family night, a meet-up with a group of friends, or Trivia Night every Tuesday.
Golden Lantern 1239 Royal St. 529-2860
The Golden Lantern, open 24/7, is full of fun times to be had, thanks to their friendly atmosphere and weekly drag shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Hermes Bar at Antoine's 725 St. Louis St. 581-4422
In a converted dining room of the renowned Antoine's Restaurant, the polished and pleasant Hermes Bar serves up classic New Orleans cocktails alongside traditional dishes.
House of Blues 225 Decatur St. 310-4999
This long-standing concert venue features great live music and a rich atmosphere. Be sure to try their deliciously soulshaking Crossroads Cadillac Margarita.
Jimani 141 Chartres St. 524-0493
Whether you’re looking for a place to end the night or start it, the Jimani is a great haunt for any night owl, with one of the largest beer selections in the Quarter.
Kerry Irish Pub 331 Decatur St. 527-5954
If you’re looking to escape the Bourbon Street scene, Kerry Irish Pub is the welcoming, authentic bar you need, with possibly the best Guinness poured in the city.
Lucy's Retired Surfers Bar Satisfy your inner surfer at the dog-friendly Lucy’s, with chef-crafted coastal bites and cocktails inspired by surfing 701 Tchoupitoulas St. hot spots around the globe. 523-8995 Martine's Lounge 2347 Metairie Rd. 831-8637
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a weekday barfly, any day spent at Martine’s Lounge is far from dull, thanks to their variety of weekly events and drink specials.
Pal's Lounge 949 N. Rendon St. 488-7257
If you’re looking for a neighborhood bar with sophisticated cocktails, then Pal’s is the place to go, where they offer a unique rotation of drinks and pop-ups.
Pat O'Brien's Bar 718 St. Peter St. 525-4823
As the inventor of the Hurricane, this bar has been a longstanding destination for visitors clamoring to try the fruity rum concoction in their gorgeous courtyard.
Penthouse Club 727 Iberville St. 524-4354
For an unforgettable night of luxury or to celebrate a special event, Penthouse Club is the place for mature entertainment on one of three stages.
Rick’s Cabaret 315 Bourbon St. 524-4222
There’s fun to be had with the 18,000 square feet of teasingly naughty entertainment, including the group of beautiful ecdysiasts on stage at Rick’s Cabaret.
Shamrock Bar & Grill 4133 S. Carrollton Ave. 307-4350
One of the largest neighborhood bars in the city, Shamrock has 16,000 square feet of wall-to-wall fun, with over 20 pool tables, ping-pong, and arcade-style games.
Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 529-1702
Home of the Hand Grenade, Tropical Isle has plenty of locations along Bourbon Street to get “Have a Hand Grenade” off your to-do list.
World of Beer 300 Julia St. 299-3599
World of Beer is a brew-lover’s heaven on Earth. They carry beer options from all over, so there’s nothing between you and a beer-based journey around the globe.
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 37
FilmReviews
Catch all of Where Y'at's film reviews by Movie Editor David Vicari and Critic Fritz Esker at WhereYat.com.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse By David Vicari I wasn't a fan of 2017's live-action Spider-Man: Homecoming because I felt the plot was old and moldy, and Tom Holland's hyperactive performance as the web-slinger was incredibly annoying. Just about everything I felt was wrong with that movie is done right in the new and exciting animated feature Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. The mundane life of African American and Hispanic high schooler Miles Morales (voice of Shameik Moore) is forever changed when he is bitten by a radioactive spider. He gains the power of invisibility as well as the ability to climb up the sides of buildings—just like SpiderMan. You see, the hero Spider-Man exists in this world, and Miles is now another Spidey. At first, Into the Spider-Verse seemed like a rehash of the origin tales we've already seen too many times: Miles is a teen who has a crush on a girl, Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld), and his life gets complicated when he gets superpowers. But then something happens: The first Spider-Man/Peter Parker (Chris Pine) is killed by villain Kingpin (Liev Schreiber). But that's not all. Because Kingpin's particle-accelerator machine goes awry, Spider-Men—and women—from other dimensions show up and help Miles battle the bad guys. The first Spider-Man to appear is Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson), who is divorced and a little out of shape. There is also a cartoon-pig Spider-Man (John Mulaney), who drops anvils on bad guys and can produce a giant magnet that is powerful enough to collect guns. Spider-Verse is a little longish at 117 minutes, and some of the animation is so flashy that it comes close to possibly giving you a seizure. Besides that, this film is imaginative and fun, with a smart and likable central character in Miles.
The Favourite By Fritz Esker Director Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster) has made his best movie yet with The Favourite, a pitch-black comedy about the court of Queen Anne in early 18th-century England. It is a movie to watch during awards season, especially in the acting categories. At the start of the film, we see Abigail Masham (Emma Stone) as the daughter of a bankrupt noble. The prospects for poor single women in that era were abominable, so she seeks the aid of her duchess cousin Sarah (Rachel Weisz), who serves as the confidant/ right-hand woman of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman). Initially, Abigail works only as a maid, but soon climbs the social ladder with a mixture of kindness, charm, and ruthlessness. Much like The Death of Stalin, another one of 2018’s best films, The Favourite gets a lot of comic mileage from watching immoral, insecure people jockey for power. But there is more to it than that. There is a poignancy to the character of Queen Anne. While she would clearly be a tremendously difficult person to be around, the movie makes you see that it would be hard for her to be any other way when she has had every need and wish catered to since childhood. Colman is terrific as Queen Anne, but Stone also turns in excellent work as Abigail. Stone’s natural charm serves the role well. At first, Abigail seems like another spunky underdogtype for Stone to play, and Stone indeed makes the character sympathetic in the first hour. This makes Abigail’s transition into ruthlessness all the more brutal and jarring. But even as viewers realize there is no “good girl” to root for (or good guy—the men here are all venal and power-hungry, too), it makes you understand why Abigail is doing what she is doing. The audience has seen how awful life was for poor women in that era, so there’s never a doubt as to why Abigail would do whatever it takes to stay out of that hell.
38 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
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TalesFromTheQuarter By Debbie Lindsey
Armed and Ready for 2019
D
o we get a do-over come New Year’s Day? I always hear about New Year’s resolutions, but do we get any brownie points for trying to do better? Resolutions to improve, reduce, save money, be kinder, volunteer, stop eating animals, go back to school, be a better friend, garden more, walk the dog more, swear less—these are all wellintentioned vows, hopes, and ambitions. But why do we think that the New Year has any motivational significance? Does the changing of the numbers really have meaning? Is 2019 a better set of numbers, and if so, why were we led to feel hopeful anticipation when the calendar rolled over to 2-0-1-8? In with the new and out with the old. “Now, this year’s gonna be better!” Really? Why? Why would one day make all the shit that has occurred null and void? Can we truly have a clean slate? Or is it more of a comb-over than a do-over— covering over a year that was bald and barren of positive growth? “Goodness Debbie, aren’t you a sour puss. What’s with the pity party?” Glad you asked. Ever feel like you, and all those and that about you which touch your world, are spinning out of control—like some kind of all-encompassing Mercury retrograde? Your luck and monetary well-being and that of your friends are malfunctioning. Sure, dashes of kindness come your way, but the good fortune seems stymied by the bad. I know we are not alone in this and that friends, right this minute, are suffering far greater indignities; but come on, let’s have a stronger showing by the forces of good. I feel much the same as I did in the days following Katrina; to a degree, I shut down—felt like I needed to cry but could not. Ever feel that pressure behind your eyes—a heaviness that doesn’t hurt, but reminds you that there is a dam about to burst? Fear freezes you. And when too many things go haywire at once, the ability to focus and regroup, to tackle problems and issues, to fix the broken things, becomes next to impossible. You take two steps forward, and then you are forced four steps back. Add to this the sensation of being on a ladder when this occurs—a rotten and wobbly ladder. So, I ask again: Can I, may I, have a redo, come January 1? I’ll even be happy with a mere rebooting.
In the meantime, while we wait out this run of muck, hoping for better luck, we find solace in evening escapes. I have always turned to my television for after-work diversions (and a good book or my newspaper for morning-coffee escapes before facing the real world). For some wacky reason, I find the broadcast news and “What the hell has POTUS done today?” will effectively take my mind off myself—much like a horror movie. Often Boyfriend and I retreat in different directions—The British Baking Show for him and Homeland for me (two TVs allow for each of our mood-altering moods). But lately, we feel like we are together on a sinking ship and need to be buoyed with a “We are in this together—let’s find and share some retreat from reality.” Yes, misery does love company. Well, last week I stumbled upon the perfect attitude adjuster: Stranger Things (Netflix). This coming-of-age adventure/horror/suspense channels and invokes a King/Gaiman/ Bradbury genre and reliably captures the essence of good vs. evil and allows adults to time-travel back to one’s youth. Our youth was when all things were still possible, before magic and monsters were relegated to mere memories, concepts that as adults, we feel that we must discredit. But there are monsters, and whether they manifest themselves in the Oval Office or as a cancer, they exist. Magic? I have to believe it is there, but you must look really hard to see or feel it. This was why our excursion into the world of horror and the humanity of a handful of characters (mostly kids) who were willing to take on evil really resonated with us. We found that we—unwittingly at first, and then with determination—made a fort of sorts on our daybed with our pillows. And there, with lights dimmed, we huddled together with our dog and watched this show that had us cheering and screaming like kids. We instantly mastered the suspension of disbelief. Now, for the past week, whenever the woes and setbacks appear that seem to besiege us all day, every day, we look at each other knowing that come evening, in our comfort zone, our fort, we will face the monsters, those at a safe distance from us, the ones on the other side of the TV screen—and we will kick some monster ass, and, for a moment, we’ll get to win. Can our problems be resolved with a viewing binge and buttered popcorn? Hell no. But does it allow us a chance to breathe more easily, to forget the horrors of real life, and reboot our attitudes? Yes! My inner child, the part of me, of us, that once felt all things were possible, is slightly fortified, and this makes us a bit stronger to face another day. Even when we take more steps back than forward, at least we gain some glide to our strides. So, the question remains: Will 2019 be a fresh start or more of the same? Can we change course with our attitudes? I do not know, but I will choose to enlist my attitude as my weapon of choice and will try, once again, to believe in the magic of the positive. Watch out, monsters—here we come again, and this time, we’re serious.
Old School New Orleans Est. 1934
Great Happy Hour Specials Weekly Specials Open - 7 Daily Pool and Darts Great Locals Spot Fun and Friendly Atmosphere
1201 BURGUNDY ST. 40 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
522-9715
Po-BoyViews By Phil LaMancusa
New Jeers OR Guy Friday
I
’ve decided that for 2019, I’m gonna put myself up for adoption. It’s the only way out of this mess, and I think that it would be mutually beneficial for me as well as for my new family. Of course, we’ll have to set some ground rules and conditions. That would be as simple as knowing what would be expected of me, balanced by what I would expect from my new family. Believe me, I am a catch and will be an asset wherever I land and to whomever I land on. I travel well and can learn languages. But I don’t do windows. First of all, you (whoever you are) would have to be able to afford me. I am not going to trade poor for poorer, and if that doesn’t make sense, you can stop the application process right here. In return for my services, which include cooking, simple errand completions, and maybe a little light housework, I definitely need some financial stability in my life. You can be singled, coupled, or nuclear-familied in condition or number—although I don’t do well in crowds or Eight Is Enough-type situations, so size does matter. Picture it: You get up in the morning, and your coffee is made just the way you like it. I’ll know what you like for breakfast; I will have picked up your clothes from the cleaners, sorted your mail, and have your newspaper ready at your place at the table. POINT 1: There will be no electronic devices at mealtimes, AT ALL (deal-breaker). If there are dependents involved, whether they be four-legged or bipedal, I expect that you will already have housebroken and trained them. I don’t mind reading to them, helping with studies, walks, or chauffeuring them to their sanctioned outings. POINT 2: I don’t change diapers, clean up after, or take crap from your kids. As you return for the evening after you’ve busted your hump for the man, I’ll have your favorite beverage on hand, dinner will be in its final stages of preparation, and softness and peace will prevail in your household. Your mail will have gone out, and your expenses will be analyzed and laid out on your desk for your consideration in your short “attention to life’s details” time in your office. At this point, I will ask you if you’d like a bath drawn; then, if nothing else is required of me, I’ll clear the table, lock down the kitchen, and retire to my quarters. POINT 3: I fulfill a finite function in your life and am not on call 24/7; after all, I am human (or so I’d like to believe) and need some downtime of my own. Imagine: I will do your shopping; I will remember birthdays, special occasions, and make reservations and such; and I’ll take care of (getting someone else to do) your laundry, carpets, windows, and heavy lifting. I’m not sure who’s going to make up your
bed (it’s not me) or clean your toilet, but we’ll find someone (else). I am a quiet person who likes things organized and neat, and I intend on maintaining that sort of life and environment for you. I ask nothing in return, except one day off a week, a stipend of a reasonable amount, and perhaps my own wing of your castle. POINT 4: Sanitation of your area is your responsibility; I am your functioning ward (for life), not your husband or your wife. Reflect that now you will have time to do all those things you’ve been trying to fit into your ridiculously, mundanely cluttered and busy life; you now can exercise, read, paint, study piano, go sailing, and/or bingewatch The Blacklist, while drinking beer and eating potato chips. Relax. I’ll pick up the (reasonably mild) debris and make things comfortable for you. POINT 5: You will not jeopardize my tenure by screwing up your health and wellbeing. Tobacco use is NOT allowed ever in your life (or any other self-destructive influences). If you feel the need to talk things out, I’ll be in the kitchen doing the dishes; grab a towel, and I’ll impart some life lessons. Well, you say, if I’m going to live by all those rules (POINTS) why the @#$!%&# do I need you? Well, I say, you’ve obviously got money but no time, and I offer you a way to have both. Who’ll keep the pool cleaned while you’re on vacation? Who’ll take charge of the floors being done for the holidays? Hell, who’s gonna make sure you have candy for the trick-or-treaters, flowers for your anniversary, or your bills paid on time—YOU? Oh, and speaking of my living arrangements, I come with a couple of critters and a mate (she likes to clean, so perhaps a package deal?), so I’ll need room (I’m also thinking a little garden space as well). Seriously, don’t you (or someone of means whom you know) need an older (wiser), more-organized-than-you (cleanshaven with minimal tattoos), music-loving (no rap or twerk stuff), educated, and personable live-in Mister, who is noncombative, emotionally stable, politically correct, and a fabulous cook, to boot? Listen, all you’ll have to do is make some dough to support us all, and I’ll take care of everything else—kind of what you’d expect from a clone of yourself. If you’re independently well-off or just some dude(ette) who wants to focus on your own egocentrically driven existence, you need a guy like me OR someone like me. For goodness sake, I need someone like me, except I can’t afford me! So, I have a passport, a set of knives, and the ability to prepare virtually anything that suits your palate. And, oh yes, I forgot to mention: I will polish your silver (as long as he’s not your horse).
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 41
YaGram
Below are our staff's favorite #NOLA hashtags on Instagram for December. Tag us @WhereYatNola or #WhereYatNola to be featured in an upcoming issue.
NewsAroundTheWeb
Updated Daily at WhereYat.com
WWOZBrassPassCannotBeUsedOnMay2
@___h_e_n_r_i_k___
@bowtiesandbigdreams
@twobougieblondes
@feralsoul
@sojackiegetsďŹ t
@lleejj_
@theloveabove
@nola_home_source
@wheres.the.food.mike
TweetBites
Below are our staff's New Orleans hashtag picks from Twitter for December. Tag us @WhereYatNola or #WhereYatNola to be featured in an upcoming issue.
@MoneyMojoCoach: New Orleans is decked out for Christmas. I've never been here in December before. A picture at Jackson Square and sunset from my room. I was able to capture the flag at half mast.
WWOZ Brass Passes have always allowed die-hard Jazz Fest fans to enjoy every day of the festival they love with one bargain-priced pass. So, when Jazz Fest coordinators announced that the festival would include an extra day this year, passholders were naturally excited. Unfortunately, however, the Brass Pass cannot be used on Thursday, May 2, so Brass Pass holders won’t be getting a free extra day of festing after all. An additional ticket will be required that day. The reason for this remains uncertain.
NOMAAnnouncesNewArtExhibit The New Orleans Museum of Art will showcase a new exhibit called Ear to the Ground: Earth and Element in Contemporary Art, which will be on display through August 2019. The exhibit focuses on natural elements like wind, water, fire, and earth and how these elements can spur artistic thinking and innovation within cultures and community.
HogsForTheCauseAnnouncesMusicLineup Hogs for the Cause will kick off the 2019 festival season, and if its newly released lineup is any indication, the upcoming festival season will not disappoint. This 11th annual event will not only delight your taste buds, but your ears as well. Performers this year include Trampled by Turtles, Lukas Nelson, and Promise of the Real.
@Jwesley: This is going down in #Nola for New Years! Oh hell yes! This is going to look like a home game being this close. Texas travels well. @JudeRVPark: New Orleans is a great place to spend Christmas! From our home to yours... Merry Christmas! @KnightNick3: USA its been a absolute pleasure, I am now even more in love! Highlight for me #NOLA and our first @Saints game. Shout out to my man @AndrewJuge , @TulaneShop and @SaintsForecast for the hospitality #USA we are out! @moodieblu: it's my birthday and i feel like i should be guilting celebrities into wishing me a happy one, as seems to be tradition on #Twitter.. *sigh* alright..time to day drink in the big easy! #birthdaymonth #birthdaygirl #underachiever #NOLA #TheBigEasy #nolagirl #celebrate
42 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
BikeEasy&UberAnnounceEducationCollaboration Bike Easy and Uber announced a collaboration that will provide Uber drivers with educational courses in road safety and how to properly share the roads with pedestrians and cyclists, including information about local bike laws, road sharing, and bike-focused infrastructure. Both companies are committed to promoting safer driving and eliminating accidents and fatalities caused by uneducated drivers.
WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 43
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Where Ya Been? 1.
The Louisiana Renaissance Festival featured queens, musicians, jousting, giant turkey legs, and much more.
2.
The New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint hosted its first Improvisations Gala.
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Best Bartender of New Orleans. 7.
Where Y’at staff and clients enjoyed the holiday party at The Cajun Cookery while Nikki Reyes teased Santa Claus, aka Director of Sales Stephen Romero.
The Art Against AIDS fundraiser at club XLIV at Champions Square was a smashing success.
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NOLA Wing Wars at Central City BBQ offered fantastic wings and specialty cocktails made with a “smoked” Maker’s Mark 46.
The 5th Annual Latkes with a Twist at NOCCA presented delicious latkes and raised funds for Jewish Children’s Regional Services (JCRS).
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The Running of the Santas at Generations Hall included lots of Santas, elves, and reindeer.
The Downtown Development District and Santa welcomed in the holidays at the Canal Street Lighting Ceremony at the Astor Crown Plaza Hotel.
6.
Ashley O from Alt 92.3 congratulated Victoria Pisarello from Felipe’s Uptown, who was named the SKYY Vodka
10. The staff from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits joined in the fun at the SKYY Vodka Best Bartender of New Orleans Finals at Manning’s.
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44 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
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WhereYat.com | January 2019 | 45
Chat NIKKI REYES with
New Orleans Cajun Cookery in the Warehouse District serves everything from classic and savory Cajun dishes to succulent burgers—even fresh fish and shrimp tacos. They offer daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as weekend brunch. Thirsty? Cajun Cookery has a full bar, including cold local beers. Located at 719 South Peters St., the Cajun Cookery is a bit of Cajun in New Orleans.
Anna Tusa
Ragin’ Cajun Santa
Owner, Cajun Cookery
Giver of Gifts
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
My sleigh! I slay all day. Easily. EVERYTHING! Friday Night Lights. Veuve Clicquot. My husband, A.J.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Hot-shot pirogue. Giving out coal. The one with the coach giving a speech. Spiked eggnog! Mrs. Claus.
Natasha Brown
Tracy Napolitano
Actress/Producer
Executive Director, New Orleans Bourbon Festival
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
'74 Corvette! What is NOT naughty about me? Casablanca. A genie! Is that a marmot?
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Mercedes E-350. My dirty mouth! Everybody's All-American. ALWAYS bourbon! My wife, Barbara.
Bernard Fromherz
Missy Byrd
Owner, Upper Management Realty, LLC
Account Manager, Deep Fried Advertising
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Uber. I don't know. Varsity Blues. Scotch. My wife, Ellie.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
A magic carpet! Not much . . . Remember the Titans. Which bottle? Me, my cell phone, and I.
Anna Koehl
Shane Finkelstein
Vice President, Public Relations, Beuerman Miller Fitzgerald
Producer/Owner, Top Taco Fest and Nacho Mama's
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
My jeep! My humor. Rudy. Coca-Cola. A candle.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
'76 VW van! Sexy costumes. The Longest Yard. Sauza margarita! My wife, Courtney, and snapping turtles.
Stephen S. Schulkers
Tony Cook
President, Schulkers Communications
Director of Public Relations and Marketing, Delgado
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Pedicab. I have to think about this . . . EVERYTHING! Forever Strong. Coca-Cola with caffeine! A lot of Epsom salts.
46 | New Year's Eve/Sugar Bowl | Where Y'at Magazine
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
The Jetsons’ aero car! Couple of bourbons. Radio. Aged Puerto Rican rum. Rubber duckies.
Where Y’at Chat Questions: 1. Ho! Ho! Ho! St. Nick needs a ride. What are you picking him up in? 2. What's naughty about you? 3. It's Sugar Bowl time! What's your favorite movie about football? 4. Happy New Year, baby! What's in your bottle? 5. January 2019 is Bath Safety Month! Who or what is in the bathtub with you?