• Plates restaurant opens in New Orleans

    Plates Restaurant Opens In New Orleans

    2 Min Read

    Finally, a neighborhood eatery that gives you a hearty meal without all the pretentiousness: Plates is open in New Orleans.

    Plates is located in the Warehouse District and specializes in shareable dishes inspired by the best of New Orleans cuisine.

    Owned by Louisiana native Chef Farrell Harrison and partner Brian Weisnicht, Plates is open the following hours:

    • Monday 5pm – 10pm
    • Tuesday 5pm – 10pm
    • Wed 5pm – 10pm
    • Thursday 5pm – 10pm
    • Friday 11am – 10pm
    • Saturday 11am – 10pm
    • Sunday 11am – 10pm

    What’s On The Menu at Plates?

    The Plates menu includes an eclectic mix of Old World and New World cuisine encompassing signature dishes from France, Spain, Africa and influences around the Mediterranean.

    On the menu you’ll find:

    • Gulf Fish
    • Pork Porthouse: weet potato gratin, creole mustard bordelaise (gf)
    • Garlic Shrimp: Black garlic soubise, chili oil (gf)
    • Braised Beef Croquettes: Pimenton aioli, pickled chilies
    • Grilled Lamb Skewer: Rosemary yogurt, crushed herbs (gf)
    • Saffron Pork Ragu: Fresh pasta, cherry tomatoes, fennel
    Menu at Plates restaurant

    Where Is Plates Located In New Orleans?

    Plates is located at the 1051 Annunciation St. New Orleans, LA 70130. Here is a map to help you find it.

    Final Word

    New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.

    When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.

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  • Brian Kelly on how to stop Alabama.

    It’s Beat Bama Week for LSU: Can They Do It?

    2 Min Read

    The LSU Tigers face their perennially toughest opponent this week: the Alabama Crimson Tide.

    There’s no question that Bama Coach Nick Saban is still smarting from last season’s last-second loss that knocked the Tide out of College Football Playoff contention and ripped the SEC West title out of his hands. Can the Tigers beat Bama again?

    LSU Has Key Injuries Heading Into Alabama Game

    Tigers Coach Brian Kelly talked to the media on Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, telling them that LSU defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo is likely out for the season after undergoing surgery during the bye week.

    Kelly said the earliest Wingo could return would be six weeks. Wingo, who has having a breakout season, will be a major blow to the Tigers stoutness upfront.

    Other key injuries for the Bayou Bengals include defensive backs Duce Chestnut , Zy Alexander and Denver Harris, who won’t play against Alabama.

    If there is any good news for LSU, it’s that Ashton Stamps will suit up and is likely to see action, according to Kelly.

    Can LSU’s Young Defense Stop Alabama’s Young Offense?

    Alabama is sort of green on the offensive end itself with first-time starter Jalen Milroe behind center. He will face a young LSU secondary that has been burned early and often this season, although things have improved a bit over the past two weeks.

    Kelly said that he expects the youthfulness of his cornerbacks to be balanced by their knowledge of the defensive scheme eight weeks into the season.

    “More than anything else, you have to have confidence in your players and I have confidence in those guys,” Kelly told reporters.

    “These guys are ready to go. They’ve got no choice,” Kelly said.

    How To Watch the Game

    Here’s how to watch the LSU-Alabama game.

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  • Check Out Black Restaurant Week in New Orleans

    1 Min Read

    Who’s down for some culture with their cuisine?
    Black Restaurant Week wraps up in New Orleans this weekend.

    That means it’s the perfect time to experience some of the city’s food businesses owned by African-Americans.

    Black Restaurant Week is all about spotlighting and promoting the Gulf Coast and New Orleans’ African American-owned restaurants, food businesses.

    The annual food event also considers its mission as one that educates and raises awareness of the black culinary industry in the United States and its plights and delights.

    When Is Black Restaurant Week In New Orleans?

    In New Orleans, Black Restaurant Week runs from Oct. 20-Oct. 29, 2023. 

    Black Restaurant Week sees its role ans one that helps create experiences that will cater to a diverse culture of tastemakers, professionals and area foodies seriously.  Gone this year are the panels and food workshops, it’s all about support. That’s why the goal is just to eat at participating restaurants and spread the word.

    What began in Houston seven years ago has expanded in major U.S. markets like Atlanta, New York, Washington D.C. and Chicago.

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  • Where to sell unwanted clothes

    Where Is The Best Place To Resell My Unwanted Clothes?

    3 Min Read

    Selling the clothes on your back may be a stretch, but the items in your closet can bring you a windfall of money, if you now how to do it.

    Reselling your clothes is a great way to make money so you can buy other things you want or even get out of debt.

    Look in your closet and see if you have some things you wouldn’t mind departing with. That’s how you know what to sell.

    In this article, I’m going to tell how you can resell your old clothes for a profit. This is a fast and easy process that can put hundreds to thousands of dollars in your pocket in no time.

    How To Make Money By Reselling Your Old Clothes

    I know, I know. You’re probably saying to yourself “Can I make some real money by selling my old clothes?” The clothes resale business is a $140 billion business, so yes, there’s money to be made.

    Before you sell your clothes:

    • Get them drycleaned
    • Make sure you’re clear in your pricing
    • Be clear on your shipping prices
    • Make your refund policy clear

    Can I Sell My Old Clothes At Goodwill?

    Goodwill is a great place to sell your old clothes. All you have to do is check the hours of operation before you go. Google your local Goodwill stores in your area to find one close to you.

    Goodwill will typically take your clothes for free, but some locations will pay you for valuable items.

    Where Can I Sell My Old Clothes?

    Let’s look at the top places you can sell your clothes in alphabetical order:

    Final Word

    All of us have older clothes that we no longer wear. We usually put them in the closet and forget about them, but what if we could turn them into money?

    If you have unwanted clothes and no place to put them, you can make it a win-win situation by reselling it.

    While it’s not a rule, many resellers make it a habit to wash their clothes before they sell them. Again, that’s totally up to you, but it shows that you’re concerned about your reputation as a merchant.

    The last thing you want is a bad review after someone has an experience less than grand from buying your wares.

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  • Best vegan restaurants in New Orleans

    8 Stellar Vegan Restaurants In New Orleans

    4 Min Read

    If you want to dine on the healthier side in New Orleans, you’ve got to be more picky than the casual eater. But don’t fret, many New Orleans restaurants serve vegan dishes.

    in this article, we’ll show you the best vegan restaurants in New Orleans.

    Is New Orleans A Good City For Vegans?

    New Orleans is great city for vegans despite its reputation as a meat eaters paradise. When you think of New Orleans cuisine, you may think of spices sauces that flood over a bed of rice or a slab of meat, but that’s not the only offering (although that is a very tasty one).

    It’s pretty easy to find some healthy options at even the most decadent of city restaurants, but you need to do your research to find out what’s on the menu.

    Seed

    1330 Prytania St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 417-7333

    Seed is the best vegan restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about seed: “So yummy, we enjoyed it all but my favorite was the Thai noodle salad, my kids favorite was the fried tofu. A pretty atmosphere and very good service. We will be back.”

    Sweet Soul Food

    1025 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 |  (504) 821-2669

    Sweet Soul Food has the best vegan fare in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Sweet Soul Food. “About 7 years ago I was laughed out of room after suggesting a vegan restaurant concept serving classic southern food and other typical New Orleans cuisine. Well, Sweet Soulfood is who’s laughing now. Every dish from their cafeteria style serving line is not only a staple, soul food item like collard greens, red beans & rice, cornbread dressing and shepherds pie. Rather, they’re as rich, decadent and flavorful as their Animalia cousins. And that, is where the real praise is given because that’s where the doubt and criticism always lurked..”

    Kindred

    7537 Maple St, New Orleans, LA 70118 |  (504) 841-9538

    Kindred has the best vegan food in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one patron says about Kindred. “I ordered the brussel sprouts and Mac ‘n cheese to start and ordered the 𝐂𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐨𝐁𝐨𝐲 as my entree. “

    I-Tal Garden

    810 N Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 515-7321

    I-Tal Garden is the best vegan restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about I-Tal Garden. “The customer service was great and the food was to die for! Will definitely be back, their rodeo burger was the BEST plant based burger I’ve ever had. I’ve tried many but this one was the best.”

    Vegan Wit A Twist

    514 S Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70113 |  (504) 766-0336

    Vegan Wit a Twist is the best plant-based food in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Vegan Wit A Twist: “Some of the best burgers in the city! Vegan or not! Nice central location, great prices, awesome staff. Easy, clean, and safe pandemic pickup. Will be back very soon.”

    Plant-Based Nola

    540 Adele St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 217-5939

    Vegan food is best at Plant-Based Nola.

    Here’s what one patron says about Plant-Based Nola. “Great food ! Good service.”

    Breads On Oak

     8640 Oak St suite a, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 324-8271

    Breads on Oak has the best vegan food in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Breads On Oak: “Best bakery in Nola! The tiramisu eclaires are amazing. All the breads are spectacular. Super friendly service and nice outdoor seating.”

    The Daily Beet

    1000 Girod St, New Orleans, LA 70113 | (504) 605-4413

    The Daily Beet is the best vegan restaurant in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about The Daily Beet. “Best Vegetarian breakfast tacos I’ve ever had! Blue dream smoothie was the icing on the cake!”

    Final Word

    Plant-based food is in for a lot of reasons, especially if you’re trying to get in shape. If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, no doubt you want to eat clean with some food that include meatless options and more.

    Please support these restaurants. Here’s more of what one customer says about Kindred. “However, I would go back for the PoBoy. This was the best PoBoy I’ve ever had so the standard is set pretty high. The buffalo sauce really topped it off making me forgot it was cauliflower.”

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  • How to make her love you

    How To Make Her Fall In Love: 5 Winning Steps

    3 Min Read

    For that special someone, you’ve got to make her feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. But how will you do that? You’ve got to express how you feel.

    In this article, we’ll show you how to show your significant other that you care for her. If you do these things, you have a good chance of making her fall in love.

    How To Show Your Love For Her

    It’s very important that to show your girl that you’re serious about her, but how do you go about it if she’s not convinced?

    1. Tell Her How You Feel

    You have to find a way to express yourself so that your girl knows that you have strong feelings for her. That may require you to separate yourself from her competitors or even your friends.

    Whatever you do, you have to impress upon her that she is the priority in your life. That’s how you win her over.

    2. Show Her How You Feel

    You may not be from Missouri, but you have to show her how much your care. That means that you need to do something that goes above and beyond the normal activity or deed.

    When you do something out of the ordinary for her, she’ll know that she’s special — and that’s what you want.

    3. Spend Time With Her

    Nothing shows you care like carving out quality time for the one you love. You may have to call in from work or get off early, but you will have to show her that your time with her is the best way for you to spend your day or evening.

    If you spend quality time with her, she’ll appreciate it.

    4. Take Her Out To Eat

    Who doesn’t like to eat? An enjoyable meal is even more enjoyable with someone you care for. If you take her out and show her a good time, that’s hard to beat.

    Tip: Don’t you dare ask her to pay for the meal. If you want to make a big impression, foot the bill and don’t look back. Here are some romantic spots to take her.

    5. Be Exclusive

    Many people make a big mistake when they arrange for “open relationships,” or non-exclusive dating. All that does is turn the relationship into a competitive one where one transaction deserves another.

    Make her feel special by making the relationship an exclusive one where you only date each other. You’ll be glad you did.

    Final Word

    Make your next move your best move: If you’re involved in a relationship, you know that it takes a lot of hard work to maintain it. But the criticism that many boyfriends have is that they don’t vocalize their love.

    Finally, we want to stress something that we alluded to earlier: Be straight up with her. That’s the only way, she’ll be straight up with you.

    The more communication you offer, the better the relationship will be. The better the communication, the more she’ll fall in love.

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  • Healthy foods that promote weight loss

    The Best Healthy Foods For Weight Loss

    4 Min Read

    The older you get, the more you know that you can’t eat any and everything like you used to. That’s especially the case if you’re trying to lose weight, even a few pounds.

    If you eat a healthy diet, you can reverse the course of your body by slimming down instead of adding extra pounds. In this article, I’m going to show you how eating better can shed fat from your body.

    What Healthy Foods Can Cause Weight Loss?

    Losing weight is not a fun subject for many of us. In fact, we may feel that it’s a chore that we’ll never be able to overcome because we love food so much.

    Continue Reading…
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  • what is gumbo in Louisiana

    What Is Gumbo?

    3 Min Read

    Have you ever had gumbo so good that you wanted to know the history behind it? The dish is one of the most recognizable in the world — and it has become known for New Orleans.

    In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about gumbo, that favorite dish for many in the South.

    What Exactly Is Gumbo?

    Gumbo is a stew mostly found in the southeastern part of the United States, especially in Louisiana, where is is the official state dish.

    Gumbo is similar to several other stews, but what separates it is the “Holy Trinity” of ingredients — onions, celery and bell peppers. There are several other ingredients to make gumbo, but it also has a healthy amount of flavored meat, including sausage, beef, chicken, duck, alligator and shellfish.

    The dish also has plenty of “roux,” a flavorful thickener which, along with okra, holds the stew together.

    Where Did Gumbo Originate?

    The word “gumbo,” originates from the term “gombo,” which is a West African word which roughly translates to “okra” in English.

    The dish comes from several different international cultures although it is documented that in the mid 1700s, Africans cooked an okra and rice dish eerily similar to what we’d consider gumbo today.

    Did Gumbo Come From Africa?

    Historians have been able to trace a variation of gumbo to West Africa, although there were several different ingredients made what was available to be grown in the region, which is understandable.

    One thing that solidifies that notion that gumbo comes from the Motherland is the word itself, which many believe comes from the African word ki ngombo, which describes “okra” in West Africa.

    Scholars believe that Africans abducted in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade bought the tradition of gumbo to the New World. 

    How Did Louisiana Become Known For Gumbo?

    Because of gumbo’s popularity in southern Louisiana, the whole state has embraced the dish. You can find gumbo on restaurant menus from the southernmost border of the state to the northernmost border, not to mention the millions of kitchens in between.

    Final Word

    If you want to know what is one of the most popular dishes in the Southeast, it’s called gumbo.

    Gumbo is South Louisiana’s most famous dish and it’s what the city prides itself in. Here’s where to get dat good dumbo in New Orleans.

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  • Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids

    4 Min Read

    If you’re planning on visiting New Orleans, Louisiana, and you have children, you may be hesitant about bringing them. Contrary to popular belief, there is a lot you can do with kids in New Orleans.

    This article will show you some fun activities and places to take your kids in New Orleans.

    Is New Orleans Worth Visiting With Kids?

    Louisiana’s largest city may be known as a place for revelers to gather and party, but it’s a really fun place for younger ones. New Orleans has activities that cater to children of all ages — you just have to bring them!

    Best Places To Take Kids In New Orleans

    Here are some of the best places to bring children in New Orleans.

    Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

    1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 565-3033

    Aududon Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans is fun for kids.

    Visit this impressive aquarium to see diverse marine life, including penguins, sharks, and sea turtles. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits and the opportunity to touch stingrays.

    City Park

    1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 482-4888

    Here’s what one parent says about City Park: “Beautiful amazing park… Trails to walk, a butterfly garden, a pretty bridge to walk over and a pond with swan peddle boats and kayaks… The Louisiana Children’s Museum is here too, it’s an absolute must do when in New Orleans!! One of the best city parks I’ve ever been to.”

    Storyland

    5 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 | 504) 483-9402

    City Park in New Orleans

    Here’s what one parent says about Storyland: “This is a great place to take your kids to enjoy bigger-than-life nursery rhyme characters. Some refurbishment should be in order but this does not take away from the charm.”

    Louisiana Children’s Museum

    15 Henry Thomas Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 523-1357

    Here’s what one reviewer says about the Louisiana Children’s Museum: “What a fun place for the family. We spent hours there, 2 floors of fun, a great restaurant and area to explore outside. Our kids spent an hour in the grocery market and kitchen, then another hour building with the giant building blocks and magnet tiles, then just as much time in the simulated River. Bonus, they also learned some new concepts at the waterway. We had a delicious lunch at the restaurant, try the shrimp tacos, overlooking the water. We observed Egrets, Hurons, and tons of turtles.”

    7 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 482-4888

    Here’s what one parent says about the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park: “Our family loves City Park & Carousel Gardens. The carousel itself is undergoing renovations. I have 2 issues with CG…1. Alot of the lights are out. I am sure they must have done a test of the rides before last evening. 2. Since they opened Parker’s Cafe, there is not a large area of covered space available to get out of the heat (and rain). This is still a great place to bring the kids for a fun day…we love the updates to Storyland also! Last photo is the strawberry supermoon as we were leaving..”

     Is The French Quarter Kid-Friendly?

    The French Quarter is known as an adults-only zone for much of it, but it has some restaurants and many historic landmarks that make for great teaching points.

    Parents who have taken their children to the French Quarter overwhelmingly voice their support for bringing their children along with them. Of course, there is some common sense and discernment needed.

    Final Word

    While New Orleans may not be first on your list when it comes to family vacations, the city does indeed have a track record for fun and is an inviting place.

    More than anything, the good nature of the New Orleans people make the city a great choice to bring kids for a vacation.

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  • Essence Festival review 2023 New Orleans

    Essence Fest 2023 In New Orleans: Review

    2 Min Read

    The 2023 Essence Fest featured all the cool celebrity sightings, educational forums and black girl magic we’ve come to love. Held in its ancestral home — New Orleans — Essence Fest hosted a dazzled amount of events cast over three days.

    One highlight was the Bevelations Live panel, which included the cast of Survival of the Thickest cast, a new Netflix movie. The film features Michelle Buteau and Tasha Smith and The Upshaws cast member, Kim Fields. The panel was moderated by Bevy Smith.

    There was also the Bevelations Live and the They Cloned Tyrone-themed Lemon Pepper Wet Party were hosted at the Chicory in New Orleans.

    Key attendees for each of the events include Sherri Shepherd, Derek J, Juvenile, Mannie Fresh, Big Krit and Terrence J.

    About Survival of the Thickest

    Release Date: July 13, 2023

    Logline: Survival of the Thickest centers on Mavis Beaumont (Michelle Buteau). Black, plus-size and newly single (not by her choice!), Mavis unexpectedly finds herself having to rebuild her life as a struggling stylist. She’s determined to not only survive but thrive with the support of her chosen family, a body positive attitude, and a cute v-neck with some lip gloss. The scripted comedy is based on Buteau’s acclaimed book of essays.

    About They Cloned Tyrone

    Release Date: July 21, 2023

    They Cloned Tyrone is one of many Netflix movies filmed in Atlanta.

    Logline: A series of eerie events thrusts an unlikely trio (Boyega, Foxx and Parris) onto the trail of a nefarious government conspiracy in this pulpy mystery caper.

    Watch They Cloned Tyrone on Netflix.

    Bottom Line

    I immensely enjoyed Essence Fest this year, although there were so many events that I couldn’t attend all of them. Call me optimistic, but I hope that the organizers look into making it a seven-day festival or over two weekends — like Jazz Fest — so that we can enjoy more of it.

    Final Word

    If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.

    Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.

    Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.

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