Food News
Food and Dining Happenings
By Su-Jit LinAs the humidity and heat of summertime in the Big Easy settles in, a drowsy, comfortable feeling does, too. It’s this leisurely hot-weather attitude that’s inspiring many restaurants in the city to offer special menu multi-course lunches this season. And to make it better, many are prix fixe rates. COOLinary New Orleans has kicked off their usual summer promos, with over 34 local restaurants participating in 3-course lunch menus at around $20 or less, and 3-course dinner offerings for just $30, some even under. Although individual restrictions apply to each place, this initiative is a clever way to make up for the lull in tourism and to draw locals out from their comfortable quarters, with establishments like Pascal’s Manale, Mr. B’s Bistro, the Brennan’s restaurants, La Cote Brasserie, 7 on Fulton, Commander’s Palace, Bayona, Tomatillo’s, and many, many more participating, offering specials at an incredible bargain until August 31.
One of the most notable menus of the summer is Chef Brian Landry’s of Galatoire’s. Already synonymous with quality dining, they’re pushing the envelope a little further this month by offering a 3-course lunch with original selections not normally found on the menu. These lunch specials are offered only on Tuesdays through Thursdays from 11:30 AM to 3 PM. Soup (Avocado Vichyssoise) or salad (Watermelon and Tomato in a dandelion vinaigrette or Romaine with Creole mustard vinaigrette, bleu cheese, and spiced pecans) makes a cool first course, but entrée choices are heartier fare. A classic Tuna Nicoise Salad and sirloin Steak and Frites are good choices for those not looking to veer too far from tried-and-trues, and Grilled Gulf Fish over smothered okra, Croque Monsieur (ham and cheese with gruyere custard), and Soft Shell Crab over corn maque choux round out the menu. A caramel cup custard is offered as the finishing course, and the entire experience is a solid bargain at just $23.
The above specials only run until the end of August, but “A Season of Good Tastes” by WYES is running until the end of fall, November 21 being the last dinner date. Almost every Friday of this autumn will feature a 4-course (or more!) dinner with impeccable coffee pairings and a series of wine tastings. Lined up for August is a great menu at Ralph’s on the Park, The Sugar House, and Latil’s Landing. September features Andrea’s out in Metairie and the Marigny Brasserie in – you guessed it – the Marigny. At a prix fixe rate of just $85 a person, I recommend you book your reservations now by calling WYES at 504-840-4886, since seats are limited.
Now, that’s all well and good for those looking to eat for themselves, but on July 13th, Bourbon House with Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation presented, with American Express, a delicious meal for those looking to eat for others. The most significant culinary benefit in America, Taste of the Nation’s mission is to eradicate childhood hunger, and the organization serves to raise funds for local organizations, especially on the Gulf Coast. The legendary Leah Chase, headlining feature story and cover model for the July issue of Where Y’at, was the guest of honor; she was presented with the Fleur de Lis Award for her work and contributions to this city while Frank Brigsten entertained the crowd at Palace Café Guest chefs from some of the best restaurants in town provided a delightful 4-course menu, paired with wines, spectacular cocktails, and coffee.
The giving certainly doesn’t end there! Festivals in the French Quarter tend to be free, and another one is upon us – Satchmo Fest. The renowned Antoine’s Restaurant is hosting the “Red Beans and Ricely Yours” luncheon from noon to 2 PM on August 1st to help kick off the celebrations in style. Souffle potatoes and good old-fashioned gumbo lead the way with Satchmo Salad and Antoine’s original, Chicken Paradis, wrapping up the menu. And what meal at this famous establishment would be complete without their trademark Baked Alaska? Drizzled with a delicate chocolate sauce, it needs no complement other than a hot cup of New Orleans coffee. However, Abita beer will be served as well for those looking to start their weekend a little bit early.
And of course, in true New Orleans style, talk turns to drink. The Krewe of Cork, a NOLA-based wine appreciation krewe, will be gathering at Restaurant August on August 8th for a sumptuous lunch by John Besh for “Thank Goodness It’s Cork Day.” Members of the group are invited to bring their families and friends to compete in the day’s contests, and members and their guests only pay $50 to go. Reservations are needed, so email reservations@Kreweofcork.com.
Also, the Wine Institute New Orleans, affectionately and commonly known as W.I.N.O., is kicking off a Super Sunday Special during their Sunday hours of 1-10 PM. With any $25 W.I.N.O. card, you’ll receive a free single cheese plate, served with a fresh baguette, to go with your drink selection. And with their unique tasting-friendly environment, it’s no challenge to find the ideal wine for that cheese plate. The only problem will be, which perfect wine? Decisions, decisions!
On the other end of the spectrum, we turn to comfort food. Phil’s Grill, home of the “Build Your Own Burger” with 10 burgers, 21 sauces, 22 toppings, 11 cheeses, and 6 buns to choose from, is spreading the addiction to the North Shore. Voted “Best Hamburger” by you, our Where Y’at readers, this location is sure to have as devoted a following as their Severn spot.
Finally, the sum of all things: the Louisiana Restaurant Association, a huge business organization representing the all-important food service industry, will be holding their annual EXPO at the Convention Center this month from August 2nd-4th. This event is open to members of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, the Mississippi Hospitality and Restaurant Association, and the Alabama Restaurant Association. Those working in food service are also welcome to register and attend. www.lra.org has more information on the event.