• Baton Rouge home sales

    Report: Baton Rouge Home Sales Slump To 7-Year Low

    2 Min Read

    Home sales in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, have fallen to their lowest levels in seven years, according to the latest report from the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors’ Multiple Listing Service.

    The report, based on January 2023 data, shows that home sales were uncharacteristically slow, even though real estate transactions typically drop during wintertime.

    New Listing20222023
    New Listings546477
    Pending Sales557386
    Closed Sales438267
    Median Sales Price$243,450$262,658
    Days on Market Until Sale3871
    Inventory of Homes for Sale6991,224
    Months Supply of Inventory1.22.7

    How To Sell Your Home During Slow Periods

    To sell your home during a lull in the real estate market, you’ll need to be especially adept to take advantage of any strengths your house has to offer.

    Make Minor Improvements

    You don’t have to make expensive repairs to sell your home relatively fast, but it has to look livable. Sometimes, minor improvements, like a paint job, can go a long way toward getting your home sold.

    Price Your Home Properly

    Make sure you check the comps or comparable homes in your area before coming up with a price to sell your home. You can do this by looking at the public records at the county recorder or the tax assessor’s office.

    Doing your research will also give you a feel for the market and the latest trends as far as price is concerned.

    Go For Curb Appeal

    Giving your home curb appeal can mean something as simple as cutting the grass to trimming the hedges, trees and shrubs in front of the home. The last thing a potential buyer wants to see are wayward vines and branches encroaching on the porch or walkway.

    Final Word

    Housing prices are climbing in New Orleans and elsewhere. It’s time that we leveled up when it comes to the real estate industry.

    The pandemic set off a buying frenzy that will be hard to sustain. As prices continue to level off, make sure you’re pre-approved for a mortgage so that you can take advantage of low rates.

    If your finances need work, make sure you try to raise your credit score so you are an attractive homebuyer.

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  • How to set up a Roth IRA

    Beginners Guide: How To Open A Roth IRA

    4 Min Read

    One of the best ways to save money for your retirement is to open a Roth IRA. Some people are intimidated by tax advantaged accounts, but you shouldn’t be.

    This article will tell you how to set up a Roth IRA so you can plan for your retirement.

    As an IRA (individual retirement account), a Roth has some cool features that make it a great way to fund your retirement and not be penalized by taxes.

    Everything You Need To Know About Roth IRAs

    Not everyone qualifies to open a Roth IRA, but if you have earned income, you’re good.

    With that being said, If you make more than $140,000 as a single person or $208,000 as a married couple filing jointly, you don’t qualify to contribute to a Roth IRA.

    But let’s find out exactly what a Roth IRA is and how it works.

    What Is a Roth IRA?

    A Roth IRA is tax-advantaged individual retirement account named after the late Delaware Sen. William Roth, who championed its creation in 1998.

    What makes the Roth IRA different from traditional IRAs is that the Roth version is funded with after-tax dollars and allows the owner to make tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

    Here are some key features of a Roth IRA that you should know about.

    • You cannot deduct contributions to a Roth IRA.

    If you satisfy the requirements, qualified distributions are tax-free.

    • You can make contributions to your Roth IRA after you reach age 70 ½.
    • You can leave amounts in your Roth IRA as long as you live.

    What Are The Advantages Of A Roth IRA?

    These accounts come with many advantages. With a Roth IRA, you get to invest after-tax dollars and take tax-free distributions.

    Another advantage is that instead of making deductible contributions, which is what you’d expect for a typical account, Roth IRA account holders are allowed to make after-tax contributions. They can  then turnaround and withdraw their money tax free in retirement, including on investment gains.

    What Are The Disadvantages Of A Roth IRA?

    Some disadvantages of Roth IRAs is that you can’t roll them over to a traditional retirement plan.

    Another disadvantage is that if you make too much income, you won’t be able to contribute to a Roth IRA. There’s also an annual contribution limit that you must adhere to. Because of that resin, you’ll need other investment options to live comfortably in retirement.

    You also aren’t allowed to make tax-deductible contributions to a Roth IRA. 

    How To Open A Roth IRA

    It’s very easy to open a Roth IRA. You can do it online or in person at a bank, mutual fund firm or brokerage.

    Open A Roth IRA With Fidelity.

    Open An IRA With Vanguard.

    How Much Money Can I Make From a Roth IRA?

    How much money you can make from a Roth IRA depends on how long you let it grow.

    Let’s say you open a Roth IRA with an initial $6,000 investment. With an annual rate of return of about 7%, your money can top $20,000 or more over two decades..

    You can make even more money with your Roth IRA with a 8% or 9% average annual return, which can happen.

    What Is The 5-Year Roth Rule?

    The 5-year Roth rule requires account holders to wait five years before withdrawing any converted balances — contributions or earnings — regardless of your age. 

    You’ll pay a 10% penalty when you file your tax return if you take money out before five years elapses.

    Final Word

    A Roth IRA is a tax-advantaged account that allows you to be strategic in how you to contribute your post-tax earnings.

    Taking care of yourself financially is the #1 way to live better later in life. If you do so, you can save money on travel, what you pay at the grocery store and other expenses.

    Read how to get out of debt right now.

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  • Piggy bank savings

    What Is Considered A Good Credit Score?

    2 Min Read

    Examining your credit score is a good way to stay informed about your financial well-being.

    This article will explain all there is to know about having a good credit score, including what it is and why it’s so important.

    What Is A Credit Score?

    A credit score is a three-digit number that credit bureaus give you to rate your credit risk. When companies consider lending to you, they use your credit score to determine the interest rate you pay and the terms attached to that arrangement.

    You can find your credit score by going to Experian, Equifax and TransUnion and accessing your report.

    What Is A Good Credit Score?

    A good credit score is one that allows you to borrow the money you need for your home, car and other purchases made on your credit card. Once you receive your credit report, you’ll see scores ranging from 300 to 850. Here are the credit score ranges for a consumer:

    • Excellent Credit: 850-800
    • Very Good Credit: 799-750
    • Good Credit: 749-700
    • Fair Credit: 699-650
    • Bad Credit: 649-600
    • Poor Credit: 599-300

    What Can You Buy With A Good Credit Score?

    With a good credit score (anything above 700) you can typically get special rates that are affordable. With elite credit (800_) you get exempt from credit checks and things of that nature.

    But if you have a credit score above 700, you don’t have to worry about what type of financing you’ll receive. Here are some things you’ll have no problem borrowing on with a 600-700 credit score:

    • Vehicle — standard interest rate
    • Automobile –standard interest rate
    • Credit Card — standard rate

    What To Do If You Have Bad Credit

    One of the most disheartening things about borrowing is to find out that you don’t qualify for a certain purchase or terms that aren’t sky-high. The reason will usually be because your credit is bad.

    If you find that your credit is poor, don’t be discouraged. There are ways to raise your credit. It will take time, but the process is pretty straightforward.

    Here’s how to fix your credit the legal way.

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  • cheap weekend trip from New Orleans, Louisiana

    Where To Travel This Spring: 7 Great Places For A Weekend Trip

    3 Min Read

    Every now and then, it’s simply time to get on a plane and go away for a long weekend. If you’re looking for a place to travel in March 2023 away from New Orleans, you’ll love these places.

    Travel is back in vogue right now, so don’t be shy about booking the cheapest flights you can find out of New Orleans.

    Where To Go For A Weekend Trip From New Orleans

    New York

    Mid-April 2023: Spirit Airlines. Airfare from $90

    New York City
    Photo by Luca Bravo / Unsplash

    What’s not to do in the Big Apple? Some must-visit spots include:

    • Ellis Island/the Statue of Liberty
    • Central Park
    • Apollo Comedy Theater
    • 9/11 Memorial and Museum
    • American Museum of Natural History

    Atlanta

    Late April 2023: Frontier Airlines: Airfare from $97

    Atlanta skyline

    You can visit Atlanta, Georgia, and take in all the fried chicken and sweet tea your tummy can handle. 

    Top Atlanta events this Year:

    • One Music Fest
    • Music Midtown
    • Atlanta Food & Wine Festival
    • Sweet Auburn Music Festival

    Charleston

    Mid May: Breeze Airways: Airfare from $170

    Charleston is one of the best places to visit in the South
    Photo credit: Dylan Mullins / Unsplash

    Charleston, South Carolina is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and it’s worth the ride. 

    Top Charleston events this Year:

    • Charleston Bluegrass Festival
    • Low Country Cajun Festival
    • Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival

    Savannah

    Late April: Breeze Airways: Airfare from $200

    Savannah, Georgia - when to visit
    Photo credit:
    Jessica Furtney / Unsplash

    Savannah, Georgia is only a four-hour drive from Atlanta and it’s worth the ride. 

    Top Savannah events this Year:

    • Savannah Hemp & Arts Festival
    • Tybee Wine Festival
    • Savannah Jazz Festival

    Houston

    Early May: Spirit Airlines: Airfare from $142

    Hoiuston, Texas

    Houston and Nola are sister cities in a way. Both of them are right off Interstate 10 and both are filled with people from New Orleans (a joke)!

    Things To Do & See In Houston:

    • Houston Zoo
    • Galveston Beach
    • Museum of Fine Arts
    • Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
    • The Galleria
    • Sam Houston Park

    Augusta

    Early June: Spirit Airlines: Airfare from $289

    Best places to visit in Georgia: Augusta
    Photo credit: Todd Trapani / Unsplash

    One of the most popular tourist spots in the South, Augusta has a rich music heritage (James Brown) and is known for cultural sports events (the Masters). 

    Here are some things to do and see in August:

    • Augusta Craft Beer Festival
    • Elijah Beach
    • Hickory Know State Park
    • Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que Music Festival
    • Westobou Festival

    Jacksonville

    Late May: Delta Air Lines: Airfare from $173

    Jacksonville is one of the best vacation destinations for 2020
    Photo credit: David Masemore / Unsplash

    Jacksonville, Florida is a eight-hour drive from Atlanta. If you start at 1 p.m, you’ll be in city limits by 6 p.m., just in time for dinner.

    Here are some things to do and see in Jacksonville:

    • Jacksonville Jazz Festival
    • Neptune Beach
    • Atlantic Beach
    • Summer Volksfest
    • Jacksonville Caribbean Festival

    Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from New Orleans that are on sale.  

    New Orleans is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Louis Armstrong International Airport is so accessible.

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  • Big Freedia to open hotel in New Orleans

    Big Freedia To Open New Orleans Nightclub And Hotel

    2 Min Read

    Bounce music icon Big Freedia is planning to open a hotel in her hometown of New Orleans, the singer recently confirmed. While it’s not really a New Orleans hotel, the Freedia Hotel will consist of about five rooms and serve as a nightclub and entertainment space that serves food and drink.

    Big Freedia has her eyes set on an opening around 2024 just in time for Mardi Gras.

    Big Freedia Opening Hotel / Club In New Orleans

    Construction workers are set to break ground on the project this spring, according to Nola.com.

    “This dream of mine has been in the works for a long time, I’ll be one of the first black hotel owners in New Orleans,” Freedia posted on social media. “Will keep y’all posted on the official opening date, can’t wait to see y’all at Hotel Freedia.”

    Where Will Big Freedia’s Hotel Be Located?

    Details are still being worked out, but it looks like Freedia’s hotel will be located on Decatur and Frenchmen streets in the city’s Faubourg Marigny neighborhood.

    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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  • The official dates for Beyoncé’s RENAISSANCE World Tour in New Orleans

    Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour Is Coming To New Orleans: How To Get Tickets

    2 Min Read

    Beyoncé is taking her Renaissance album on the road. The singer has announced a world tour in partnership with Live Nation. The tour is coming to New Orleans, Louisiana.

    When Is Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour Coming To New Orleans?

    Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour is coming to New Orleans on Wednesday, September 27, 2023.

    Beyonce Renaissance World Tour Atlanta Date

    How To Get Tickets To The New Orleans Date Of Beyoncé’s World Tour

    Register now for access to tickets through Verified Fan at  beyonce.livenation.com.

    For the New Orleans tour date, you must register for Group C through Thursday, February 16th at 11:59pm ET.

    According to Live Nation, registration does not guarantee tickets. This will be a “lottery-style process” to determine which registered Verified Fans receive a unique access code and which are put on the waitlist.

    What Are The Official Dates for Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour?

    Can’t make the New Orleans tour stop? Here are the dates and cities for Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour.

    The official dates for Beyoncé’s RENAISSANCE World Tour

    Bey’s last worldwide tour was “On the Run II” in 2018, which stopped through several U.S. cities, including New Orleans.

    Final Words

    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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  • How to rent an apartment in New Orleans

    How To Rent An Apartment In New Orleans

    5 Min Read

    The average rent in New Orleans, Louisiana is $1,339, according to a RentCafe report. But price is not the only thing you should consider when you begin shopping for a place to rent.

    In this article, I’m going to go over what you need to know to rent in New Orleans.

    Here’s How To Rent An Apartment In New Orleans

    If you want to rent an apartment in New Orleans and don’t know where to start, here are the steps:

    First thing you need to do before you rent an apartment in New Orleans is find one that fits your needs. To do that, you can use a number of online services to help find a place:

    If you don’t already know the specific areas of town  like Uptown, the Garden District or Elysian Fields. Join NextDoor or Facebook Groups to get a feel for the areas that you want to live in.

    Midtown New Orleans apartments have gone up 6% over the past year, according to the report mentioned above. The average square footage for a place? 893 feet.

    Once you make a list of New Orleans apartments you want to check out from one of the services above, you can begin to make appointments to visit.

    You’ll want to pay special attention to the amenities that each apartment offers. You may put a big emphasis on on-site laundry facilities, a pool, a courtyard, lounge and other things.

    1. Get Your Finances Together

    Before you begin to schedule visits, you need to have your financials in order. Landlords don’t just let you move in, you’ll need a credit check. The idea behind this is that you have to show income stability.

    Get a free credit report at annualcreditreport.com, the only authorized website for free credit reports from the three major credit bureaus Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

    When you get the credit reports, go over them with a finetooth comb to make sure they’re accurate.

    If you see a discrepancy on your credit report, here’s how to dispute it:

    Not only will you need to have your first and last month’s rent in your account (as we’ll get into), but you’ll need to have more money on hand for some incidentals.

    2. Visit The Apartment

    When you visit the apartment, make sure you the age of the building and style is to your liking. Feel the walls so that you can gauge whether they’re thin and well built.

    Look out for loud neighbors and other things that may affect your ability to have a good night’s rest.

    If you like what you see, make an offer.

    3. Negotiate Your Rent

    You don’t have to accept what the landlord offers. See if you can negotiate. If you sign a two-year lease rather than one year, you may be able to get a better deal. You won’t know what’s capable until you ask.

    If the leasing agent can’t make any concessions, see if you can get the hookup on parking or a one-month discount in lieu of a move-in special.

    4.  Sign The Lease Contract

    When you sign the lease, you may need to have a list of references. These should be people you’ve contacted ahead of time who will have only good things to say about you.

    Their input will be what decides your worthiness.

    Before you sign your lease, you need to know what to expect as far as charges and fees. Here are some of the charges you may be asked to pay:

    • Rental application fee
    • Security deposit
    • Last month’s rent
    • Move-in fee or finders fee

    Depending on where you rent your place and your specific circumstances, you may also be asked to pay a pet fee or even parking space fee.

    Once you pay what you owe, your landlord or leasing agent will hand over the keys to your new apartment. Remember to keep it down and always be considerate of your neighbors.

    What if you have bad credit?

    How To Rent An Apartment With Bad Credit

    The first thing you need to do is look for apartments that don’t do credit checks on potential tenants.

    You’re also going to want to entice the landlord by offering to pay more upfront or even every month.

    So, to recap, if you have bad credit, the way to rent an apartment is:

    • Find apartments with no credit checks
    • Offer to pay more upfront
    • Negotiate for other amenities you want

    You might also want to offer to fix small things so that you build up a good relationship with the landlord. This can be very valuable when it’s time to renew your lease, if you choose to do so.

    Final Word

    Renting an apartment takes some time and effort on your part, but it can be done. Look at the bright side: Once you get a comfortable and safe place, you will never regret it.

    New Orleans is one of those cities that you can get lost in once you take the time to explore it. As the former capital of Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic and eccentric cities in the world.

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  • Here are the best places to buy eyeglasses in New Orleans

    Best Places To Buy Eyeglasses In New Orleans

    6 Min Read

    Being able to see is vastly underrated, or at least, when you get older it is. Sooner or later, there comes a time when you need some good glasses. New Orleans has some great optical options for you regardless of your age or style.

    This article will show some of the best eyeglass stores in New Orleans, Louisiana.

    First of all, let’s ask a very important question:

    How Much Can I Expect To Pay For Eyeglasses?

    Eyeglasses can be expensive depending on the prescription and design you need. For the most part, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $600 for a pair of glasses.

    On average, you can expect to pay about $200 for some glasses.

    Table of Contents:

    Best Places To Buy Eyeglasses In New Orleans

    If you need some new glasses, you need to know where to go.

    Warby Parker

     3964 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

    Warby Parker has the best glasses in New Orelans

    Here’s what one customer says about Warby Parker: “The staff was so helpful and kind! They have a ton of frames and the staff helped me to get the perfect match for my face. And their prices are excellent!”

    Costco

    • 3900 Dublin St, New Orleans, LA 70118
    Best eyeglass store in New Orleans - Costco

    Costco has some of the best prices on glasses for those without insurance. They also accept most insurance plans.

    There Optical departments have a wide range of contact lenses, brand-name designer frames and sunglasses and offers the latest technology in high-definition lenses.

    What Is The Cost Of An Eye Exam Cost At Costco?

    An eye exam costs anywhere between $65 to $100 at Costco without insurance. The pricing depends on if you suffer from an eye condition or even if your eyes need to be dilated.

    Arts & Eyes

    3708 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

    Arts & Eyes is the best glasses store in New Orleans.

    For a smaller store with some great designs, Arts & Eyes is highly recommended for your eyewear needs.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Arts & Eyes: “I have bought my glasses from art and eyes for years. Cant find a better glasses shop in the country. Even when I lived out of town – I came here. Best selection, unique, great customer service, and the lenses are the best!”

    Sam’s Club

    • 1527 Manhattan Blvd, Harvey, LA 70058
    • 3900 Airline Dr, Metairie, LA 70001
    • 455 31st St, Kenner, LA 70065
    • 947 12th St, Gretna, LA 70053
    • 181 Northshore Blvd, Slidell, LA 70460
    best eyeglass store in New Orleans - Sam's Club

    Sam’s Club’s Optical Center is known for being upfront with their prices. They also feature the Member’s Mark line of eyewear, starting at $79 for a complete pair. They have some decent options, too.

    How Much Is An Eye Exam At Sam’s Club?

    You can get an eye exam with the in-store optometrist at Sam’s Club starting at $50. The cost of an eye exam will vary though, based on your particular needs.

    For example, if you have a stigmatism, you can expect to pay close to $70.  Find a Sam’s Club near you to schedule an eye exam.

    Walmart

    • 1901 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 7013
    • 4301 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70126
    • 6000 Bullard Ave, New Orleans, LA 70128
    • 4001 Behrman Pl, New Orleans, LA 70114
    best eyeglass stores in New Orleans - Walmart

    Walmart’s Vision & Glasses store makes it easy because they have so many locations. Just pop inside your local Walmart and many of them have eyeglass stores.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Walmart Vison & Glasses Center at Howell Mill: “Called and spoke with Alison Jenkins, she was extremely helpful and went out of her way to assist me and answer all my questions!”

    Can You Get Glasses the Same Day at Walmart?

    It will take three to seven days for prescription glasses to come in, according to Walmart.

    For example, if you order glasses on a Monday, you can expect them to be ready anywhere from Thursday to the following Monday (you might as well not count the weekend).

    How Much Is an Eye Exam at Walmart?

    A basic exam starts at $79. For contact lens exam, it will be around $139.

    America’s Best

    • 3050 Holiday Dr, New Orleans, LA 70131
    best eyeglass stores in New Orleans - America's Best

    America’s Best has an extensive collection of eyeglasses and operates with assembly line efficiency. Because of that, you may find it difficult to get the unique attention you deserve.

    Can You Get Your Glasses The Same Day At America’s Best?

    America’s Best allows for glasses to be ready in  seven to 10 business days, the retailer says.

    Does America’s Best Accept Insurance?

    America’s Best accepts most insurance. Here are the major insurers that America’s Best accepts:

    • Community Eye Care
    • Davis Vision
    • EyeMed
    • Humana
    • Heritage
    • MetLife
    • NVA
    • UnitedHealthcare

    LensCrafters

    3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd Spc 79B, Metairie, LA 70002

    Best eyeglass stores in New Orleans - Lenscrafters

    LensCrafters has a wide array of different frames and lens that make it a top place to get eyeglasses in New Orleans. Like many Lenscrafters locations, if you have a basic problem with your frames, they will try to fix them for free.

    Most Lenscrafters also offer on-site exams, which is very convenient.

    How Much Does An Eye Exam Cost At LensCrafters?

    If you don’t have insurance, you can expect to pay about $70 to $90 at Lenscrafters. If you have insurance, expect about a %10-15% discount off that price range.

    Here’s what one customer says about LensCrafters: “It is an easy process. There was a nice selection to go through and everyone was patient with me while I was searching for glasses. I feel I found the right deal for myself.”

    Versace Women’s VE3175 Eyeglasses

    Buy

    If you know your size, you actually shop for eyeglasses online. Here are our favorites:

    Final Word

    If you’re looking for a good place to buy eyewear, New Orleans has some options you’ll love. The stores here offer a variety of styles and lenses that can help you see with no issues whatsoever.

    No matter if you need reading glasses or bifocal prescriptions, you can find what you need in New Orleans. Always try the glasses on so you know how they fit.

    And don’t get caught up in brand names. Go with glasses that fit your particular face and style.

    Here’s another tip: Always call the eyeglass store before hand to see what type of insurance they have or if they accept insurance at all.

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  • best steakhouses in New Orleans for juicy steaks

    Best Chops And Steaks In New Orleans

    6 Min Read

    Who doesn’t love pork chops and steak? It doesn’t matter if it’s medium rare or well done, a nice ribeye or T-bone is a quality meal any day of the week in New Orleans. Do you want to know where to grab a great seared chop in the Big Easy?

    This article will show you the very best restaurants for chops and steaks in New Orleans.

    What New Orleans Restaurants Have The Best Juicy Chops And Steaks?

    Of course, it’s just not enough to focus on restaurants that serve juicy, delicious chops and steaks. We curated this list based on how real-life customers feel about what they’re eating as well as the customer service and ambiance. Let’s dig into the list.

    Land Ho

    38 Main Street and, MA-6A, Orleans, MA 02653 | (508) 255-5165

    Land Ho has the best steaks in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one diner says about Land Ho: “A long time staple of Orleans, location has a great atmosphere, the food is good, a solid beer / draft selection and the interior leaves you with plenty to chat about and look at. But… my goodness, the prices… Now I’m doing my best to be supportive of local business and taking into account the impacts following the last year… But we ordered a pretty standard amount of food for lunch for a table our size and the bill was over $120. We went to dinner at a nice restaurant later in the day for less. The burger special of the day was $16. So, when you take into consideration a burger is a pretty standard item… The prices are a bit out of pocket. Review is based on current status, and my positive history here, but unfortunately I will not be back until prices come down to something more reasonable.”

    Mahoney’s Atlantic Bar & Grill

    28 Main St, Orleans, MA 02653 | (508) 255-5505

    Mahoney's Grill has the best steak in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Mahoney’s Atlantic Grill: “A Cape Cod gem for great food and atmosphere. I love the Steaming Bowl! Delicious and plenty of great seafood! Katherine & Lindsey are great behind the bar. I highly recommend Mahoney’s!”

    Charlie’s Steakhouse

    4510 Dryades St, New Orleans, LA 70115 |  (504) 895-9323

    Charlie's Steakhouse is among the best in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one diner says about Charlie’s. “First time there and it was great. My 32 oz t-bone was way undercooked but was still really good. I had a few bites of my wife’s ribeye and it was amazing. I will definitely get that next time. The side dishes were delicious. I had the potatoes au gratin and my wife had the cream spinach. We both love them. Everyone on the staff was great from the minute we walked in. I definitely recommend it and I will be back.”

    Restaurant Rebirth

    857 Fulton St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-6863

    Restaurant Rebirth has the best steaks in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Restaurant Rebirth: “This is a very special place nestled into New Orleans away from the Bourbon Street scene. The food was incredibly flavorful, balanced and truly excellent. We were excited to taste each new dish that arrived to our table and savored every bite.”

    Toups Meatery

    845 N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 252-4999

    Toups Meatery has the best steak in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one patron says about Toups Meatery: “Enjoyed Happy Hr! Nice atmosphere & helpful staff. Didn’t rush us at all! It’s been since before Pandemic that I was able to catch up with my friend, so glad we were not rushed. Only thing was turkey neck batter was still runny, but really small mistake ( the meat was so tender). Will try to make happy hr again! I really loved the drinks, omg the creole tomatoes, pork belly dish. The cheese board was tasty. The boudin was full of liver & flavorful!”

    Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse

    716 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 522-2467

    Dickie Brennan's has the best steaks in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one customer says about Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse. “The food was phenomenal. Steaks were cooked perfectly, mashed potatoes were great, the mud pie was tasty as well.Waitstaff kept cutting through the dining room, one waiter almost knocked my boyfriend out of his chair, another waiter was helping with a large party next to us knocked our table pretty good almost spilling our wine.”

    Mr. John’s Steakhouse

    2111 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 679-7697

    Mr. John's has the best steaks in New Orleans.

    Here’s what one diner says about Mr. John’s Steakhouse. “My husband and I celebrated our ten-year wedding anniversary and my birthday at this establishment last night. He had the Braised Pork Belly (appetizer) and Ribeye (entree). I had the Turtle Soup (appetizer, first time eating) and the Two Lobster Tails (entree). Our meals were cooked to perfection. The wait staff was cheery, friendly, and attentive. Ambience was so nice. I wanted to cry because everything went to so well. Tip: get your car parked by the valet. I would come back to eat here again. I highly recommend this restaurant.”

    Chophouse New Orleans

    322 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-7902

    Chophouse New Orleans has the best steaks.

    Here’s what one reviewer says about Chophouse New Orleans. “My husband made reservations for my birthday. The manager chose a bottle of champagne at my husband’s request and had a card from the staff waiting on us. The food was amazing. We had the crab cocktail appetizer, steak, fries, and the onions and mushrooms. It was all fabulous. Roshaun and Brandon were amazing at meeting all our needs.”

    What Is The Best Steak You Can Get?

    No matter if you order a ribeye or sirloin, the type of cut has its advantages, but how it’s prepared makes a big difference in how it will taste. The best steaks you can get — according to the culinary experts — is Wagyu, which is exclusive to a region in Japan.

    The steaks — and beef — you get in the United States is basically from the stocks raised here in America.

    Final Bite

    Few dishes fill up your tummy and are as satisfying as a nice, juicy steak. When you find a good restaurant that serves steak, etouffee or delicious gumbo the way you like it, patronize it often so that it stays in business.

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  • Serigne and Blake Aguillard and Trey Smith are James Beard Award finalists in New Orlaans.

    These New Orleans Chefs Are 2023 James Beard Award Semifinalists

    3 Min Read

    New Orleans is once again well represented among the most prestigious culinary and food prep experts in America for semifinalists for the James Beard Awards.

    Whittled from an exhaustive list, the local semifinalists have a chance to take home the top prize and cement New Orleans’ place on the map as a bona fide cultural mecca with top-notch restaurants with diverse cuisine.

    When Will The James Beard Awards Be Announced?

    The winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 5, 2023, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

    “After a year of fundamental changes, we look forward to building on the progress
    made, celebrating those paving a better future for us all—through their talent and craft, service to
    others, and commitment to a better, more sustainable industry. We look forward to sharing more
    exciting details for the 2023 ceremonies in the coming days,” Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation said in a statement.

    And The New Orleans James Beard Award Finalists Are…

    Outstanding Chef

    Nina Compton, Compère Lapin

    Atlanta’s are among the top eateries up for Outstanding Wine Program.

    Outstanding Restaurant

    Brennan’s, New Orleans

    Emerging Chef

    Serigne Mbaye, Dakar Nola, New Orleans

    Outstanding Bakery

    Angelo Brocato

    Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

    Commander’s Palace

    Best Chef

    • Blake Aguillard and Trey Smith, Saint-Germain, New Orleans
    • Melissa M. Martin, Mosquito Supper Club, New Orleans
    • Ana Castro, Lengua Madre, New Orleans
    • Amarys and Jordan Herndon, Palm & Pine, New Orleans
    • Melissa M. Martin, Mosquito Supper Club
    • Charly Pierre, Fritai, New Orleans
    • Colleen Quarls and Liz Hollinger, Molly’s Rise and Shine, New Orleans
    • Michael Stoltzfus, Coquette, New Orleans

    Here Is The Complete 2023 List Of James Beard Award Finalists

    From the Best Chefs to the top bar programs, the James Beard Awards exemplify the utmost of America’s food culture, which New Orleans plays a big part in.

    Read the complete list of James Beard Award nominees for 2023.

    Final Word

    The James Beard Foundation is a nonprofit organization that celebrates and supports culinary excellence of America’s chefs and food businesses.

    If your favorite New Orleans chef or restaurant didn’t’ make the list, make it your business to support them sometime soon.

    New Orleans’ food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?

    Looking for more places to eat in Nola? Here Are Some Top Desserts To Order In New Orleans.

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