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adventure / culture / Events / general / Health / lifestyle / mood / news / Where To Eat
February 21, 2022
4 Min ReadCarnival is one of the most celebratory times in not only Louisiana, but across the South. If you’re headed to New Orleans for the festivities, you should have a plan on what you’d like to do (and eat).
Mardi Gras 2022: What To Do And Where To Eat
This article will show you some of the best places to visit and the top restaurants to eat at during your visit to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.
Table of Contents:
When is Mardi Gras 2022?
Mardi Gras 2022 is Tuesday, March 1, aka Fat Tuesday. But in the city, related events such as shows, parties, pageants and parades stretch two weeks before and after. Sometimes, events can go until Easter.
Where To Visit New Orleans For Mardi Gras
Now that we’re straight on the dates, let’s talk about some must-visits for your trip.
French Quarter
One of the most famous districts in the world, New Orleans’ French Quarter is where you’ll find street dancers, a second-line band playing into the night and strong hurricane drinks. While there’s no big “thing” to visit or see in the French Quarter, just being around the area can yield some treasures for the observant person.
Pitot House
1440 Moss St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 482-0312
If you want a dose of antebellum history, the Pitot House in New Orleans fits the bill. The historic landmark is an 18th-century Creole colonial country home and makes for a great weekend stop.
Take A Swamp Tour
When you come to Nola, there are few things as bayou-authentic as a swamp tour. You’ll enjoy the time outdoors, get a real taste of the bayou and even get to see some alligators.
Here are some top swamp tour companies:
- New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours | (504) 571-9975
- Bayou Swamp Tours | (504) 370-8771
- Gators & Ghosts: A New Orleans Tour Company
Eat Some Beignets At Cafe Du Monde
Cafe Du Monde is known around the world as having some of the best powdered dumplings — beignets — you can find outside of France.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cafe Du Monde. “What else can I say that hasn’t already been said. This place is an absolute must despite the touristy crowd. The jazz band that sits on the sidewalk out front adds the perfect level of cover from the hustling and bustling sounds of the street.”
Where To Eat In New Orleans For Mardi Gras
Now let’s get into some great places to eat in New Orleans right now.
Brennan’s
417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 525-9711
Here’s what one reviewer says about Brennan’s: “Design of the restaurant is really good. Service was decent. However I did not like the food. Whether that was my fried rabbit particularly or the oil they use, I just stayed hungry.”
Cochon Restaurant
930 Tchoupitoulas St suite a, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 588-2123
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cochon: “Our experience at Cochon was pleasant. Service was quick and food was delicious. Drinks are also well crafted. The oysters on garlic chili oil was a winner. The alligator was different. If you don’t mind eating alligator then it’s probably good. Just not for me.”
Commander’s Palace
1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 899-8221
Here’s what one customer says about Commander’s Palace: “Commander’s Palace was a lovely dining experience- the ambiance was great, our waiter had a dynamite personality, and we had fun having an excuse to dress up! I forget the details but I believe the sourcing of the meat was local/organic if they possibly could which I thought was nice. Also, the bread pudding was delicious!”
Doris Metropolitan New Orleans
620 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | : (504) 267-3500
Here’s what one customer says about Doris: “This place was incredible. The service was excellent. The food was… I swear I died and am presently a ghost. The desert was so so so rich, but so incredibly good.
Absolutely hit this place up if you are looking to dine high quality.”Final Word
New Orleans is known as a party city, but a celebratory city is a much more accurate word. Mardi Gras marks one of the largest celebrations in the world and it happens every year right here in New Orleans.
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With Mardi Gras gearing up around the city, you may be down for a more tamer celebration of New Orleans. It’s called Family Gras and we’re going to tell you all about it.
What Is Family Gras?
Like its name implies, Family Gras is a celebration that mimicks the wilder Mardi Gras, but it’s more age-appropriate for children.
Family Gras celebrations typically take place the weekend before Mardi Gras, and that’s the case this year.
When Is Family Gras?
Family Gras is the weekend of February 18-20, 2022 around New Orleans. The family tradition stretches back several years as a way to give the kids something to do while the grown-ups party up.
Where Is Family Gras This Year?
This year the big Family Gras celebration is back in Metarie. Here are the details.
Metairie: Friday through Sunday, come out to Metairie’s Family Gras celebration, which takes place at Mardi Gras Plaza on the 3300 block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard.
Come watch to Elite Redfish Series Mardi Gras Cup weigh-ins at the Berkley Fishing Experience Tanks at 4pm, followed by the New Orleans Artists’ Tribute to Allen Toussaint at 5pm, the legendary Marie Osmond at 6pm, & the Krewes of Excalibur and Symphony parades closing out the night. Learn more.
Final Word
Family Gras is a great event to spend some time with your family. Come out for the live music, crowds and big fun. Looking for more to do in New Orleans? We’ve got you.
Looking for something to do in the city? What To See And Do In New Orleans
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The Tennessee Williams Fest is coming this spring to New Orleans. The annual event will once again feature a who’s who of popular musicians and artists.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the five-day festival in New Orleans.
Everything You Need To Know About The Tennessee Williams Festival
The Tennessee Williams Fest is a five-day fesrival that focuses on contemporary literature, culture, and theatre. Now in its 36th year, festival has some great things you need to know about.
The annual Tennessee Williams Tribute Reading returns with Williams’ poetry, prose, and letters, as well as some surprising reviews, critical responses, adaptations, draft material, and playful insights into the enduring cultural reception of “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Readers include Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Jericho Brown, Michael Cerveris, Brenda Currin, Jewelle Gomez, among others.TWFest is hosting “Cocktails with Tennessee: Making Magic Happen With 4 Drinks Inspired by His Characters.” Bakery Bar’s Joe Witkowski, will meld his bartending and theatrical skills to create one-of-a-kind cocktails. Sue Strachan, author of “The Café Brûlot,” will join him at New Orleans’ classic restaurant, Antoine’s.
When Is The Tennessee Williams Fest?
The Tennessee Williams Fest is Wednesday, March 23, 2022 to Sunday, March 27, 2022. This year’s festival is honoring the 75th anniversary of the iconic play, A Streetcar Named Desire.
Who Is Performing At The Tennessee Williams Fest?
The artists performing at the Tennessee Williams Fest include Constance Adler, Jamie Attenberg, Mary Mayhew Bergman, Rick Bragg, Tyler Bridges, Elizabeth Miki Brina, Jericho Brown, Michael Cerveris, Craig Colten, Augustin J Correro, Brenda Currin, Peter Ho Davies, Mary Gauthier, Jewelle Gomez, Peter Hagan, Miles Harvey, Ladee Hubbard, Rickie Lee Jones, Errol Laborde, Zachary Lazar, Robert Mann, Eric Nguyen, Glen Pitre, Betsy Prioleau, Kathy Randels, Nathaniel Rich, Gary Richards, Farrah Rochon, Tom Sancton, Kalamu Ya Salaam, Timothy Schaffert, Katie Simpson Smith, Oliver Thomas, Poppy Tooker, Esmé Weijun Wang, David Williams and many more.
Where Will The Tennessee Williams Fest Take Place?
The Tennessee Williams Fest will take place in the French Quarter, for the most part. Many downtown New Orleans hotels will be venues, including Hotel Monteleone, the Festival’s host hotel; The Historic New Orleans Collection; Williams Research Center; the New Orleans Jazz Museum; Beauregard-Keyes House; Muriel’s Jackson Square; and Palm Court Jazz Cafe; among others.
How To Get Tickets To The Tennessee Williams Fest?
Festival Tickets will go on sale mid-February. Prices for most individual events range from $10 to $45. For more information and a full listing of events visit tennesseewilliams.net.
Final Word
The Tennessee Williams Fest isn’t the only thing happening in New Orleans. The city practically has a party every night, not to mention the many rowdy restaurants that offer a great meal and a good time.
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If you love cooking, then you’ll appreciate a new school that teaches you how to make some of the most flavorful dishes in the Southeast.
Deelightful Roux recently was opened by Chef Dwynesha Lavigne, who is best known as the founder and creator of Deelightful Cupcakes, a gourmet cupcake and confectionary treats bakery.
Lavigne’s school is an interactive cooking school housed at the Southern Food & Beverage Museum in New Orleans.
To city residents, Lavigne may be more known for her regular segments on WWLTV.
The cooking school takes place three times a week — Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays starting at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The classes will have up to 10 people and be centered on New Orleans-style dishes.
Want to join in? Sign up here.
Here are the best black-owned restaurants in New Orleans.
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The best ways to get around New Orleans are on foot and by public transportation. The city’s neighborhoods are very compact, making them perfect for strolling sightseers.
If this is your first visit to New Orleans, what you need to know is a guide on what you can do each day. So , as a helpful resource, we’re going to lay out a plan for you to see what you what to see.
Food
Here are some of the must-visit food spots in New Orleans:
Dooky Chase
2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 821-0600
Here’s what one customer says about Dooky Chase:”The very best spot for fried chicken in town! The atmosphere and service make this place much better than Willie Maes. Good enough for 2 presidents! The lunch buffet is a must..”
Ray’s On The Ave
2005 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 766-6404
Here’s what one customer says about Ray’s on the Ave: “This place was Great. There was a live band and they were Amazing. The music , WOW, it was such a joy. The Owner Mr. Ray was very gracious to us. And the food, Fried Fish Plate and Fried Chicken was Delicious. What a great evening.”
L’il Dizzy’s Cafe
1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 766-8687
Here’s what one patron says about L’il Dizzy’s Cafe: “Lil Dizzy’s serves up some of the best soul food New Orleans has to offer. In addition to classics like po’boys and fried chicken, you can choose from daily specials like fried Catfish and grits or smothered pork chops.”
M&J Soul Food Restaurant
9301 Lake Forest Blvd #107, New Orleans, LA 70127 | (504) 304-2703
Here’s what one person says about M&J Soul Food Restaurant. “Saw this place on Uber Eats, wanted to support local and glad I did!! Food arrived quickly and still was piping hot. We had two orders of the White Beans (one with mac/yams, one with mac/cabbage). Food was awesome with great flavor! Super glad we gave this place a try, and will definitely be ordering again!”
Seed
1330 Prytania St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 417-7333
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
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.”
Recreation
Here are some great things to do recreationally in New Orleans:
The Chloe
4125 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 541-5500
The Chloe is a historic 14-room hotel, restaurant, bar in a New Orleans mansion. Come for the history, stay for the pool and patio.
Here’s what one observer says about The Chloe: “Amazing staff. Phenomenal food. Delicious drinks. Beautiful interior design. Lovely rooms. Great frozen ritas by the pool. I could not love this place more. 10/10 would live there if I could.”
Pitot House
1440 Moss St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 482-0312
If you want a dose of antebellum history, the Pitot House in New Orleans fits the bill. The historic landmark is an 18th-century Creole colonial country home and makes for a great weekend stop.
Jackson Square
701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 658-3200
Jackson Square is a historic landmark in the heart of New Orleans. The site is the centerpiece is a beautiful park and holds unparalleled historic significance: It’s the site where the Louisiana Purchase was made official.
Here’s what one visitor says about Jackson Square: “Jackson’s square was beautiful. There wasn’t many people at 11:30 when we went but it was also about to storm. There is a farmers market a couple blocks away that is a must to go through. If you time it right you can watch the riverboat take off for a tour. Very pleased with how clean the park was and the music playing by live performers.”
Take A Swamp Tour
When you come to Nola, there are few things as bayou-authentic as a swamp tour. You’ll enjoy the time outdoors, get a real taste of the bayou and even get to see some alligators.
Family Fun
Here are some great things you can do in New Orleans as a family:
Woldenberg Park
1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 861-2537
Here’s what one visitor says about Woldenberg Park. “Best view. I love water. And it’s very peaceful. People running pass. Kids running having fun. Watching the sunrise and sunset right here amazing.”
Marsalis Harmony Park
8211 S Claiborne Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 658-3200
Here’s what one park lover says about Marsalis Harmony Park. “Wonderful atmosphere with occasional festivals and art markets! Hands down one of the best shaded playgrounds in the city.”
Mississippi River Heritage Park
John Churchill Chase St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 658-3200
Here’s what one visitor says about Mississippi River Heritage Park. “The park has the cool artwork thru its entrance path and is a nice simple green space with benches to enjoy your stroll. Plus, its next to several of the hotels and across from the convention center.”
Final Word
New Orleans is such a great place with so much to do that you will likely not be able to do everything you have in mind.
Here’s what you do: Write down a list of must-visits that you can check out while in New Orleans. If you can’t do everything you want to do, you may need to plan another trip.
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One thing you need to make a great meal is a trusty cast-iron skillet. IF you’re the designated cook among your friends, you know that it takes effort to whip up with the perfect meal.
One accessory that will make your job easier is a cast iron skillet.
I don’t know if you’ve ever used a cast iron skillet, but it is one of the most durable pots you can buy.
In this article, we’re going to go over some of the best cast iron skillets you can find online.
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The U.S. government has announced that Americans will be able to order free COVID-19 tests from COVIDTests.gov starting on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.
The program is part of a public safety initiative ramped up by the Biden Administration to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is result of a partnership with the U.S. Postal Service.
Here’s How To Get Your Free COVID Tests Mailed To You
According to the White House, here are the details of the COVID test program:
- The tests are free and you don’t have to enter your personal information except for your name and address.
- Orders will typically take between seven and 12 days to ship.
- Your order includes four individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests.
- You get one order per residential address.
Click here to order your free COVID test kits.
U.S. health officials continue to push prevention as the #1 to ward off COVID among all age groups. Remember to wear a masks in public indoor spaces, social distance and wash your hands regularly.
If you’re looking for the booster shot near you, here’s where to get one at.
What COVID phase in New Orleans in?
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If you enjoy grabbing something to eat with your dog in tow on the Beltline or another part of New Orleans, there are some great restaurants you should check out.
It’s no shame when your animal is your right-hand man and you take them everywhere, including to restaurants.
Are Dogs Allowed In New Orleans Restaurants?
The City of New Orleans doesn’t have a specific ordinance against pets in restaurants. There are hundreds of eateries in the city that allow pets.
If you’re unsure whether a local eatery allows pets, you should call them on the phone first before you drive there. With that said, you shouldn’t have a problem as far as options.
I’m Hungry. Where Can I Take My Dog In New Orleans?
Are you hungry? Here are some places you can take your pet in New Orleans.
Bearcat Cafe Uptown
2521 Jena St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | : (504) 309-9011
Here’s what one patron says about Bearcat Cafe: “The options for EVERYONE is my favorite aspect. I also enjoy how they propagate their own catci and plants. Aside from the killer atmosphere and quick service, the food is AMAZING. The kombucha brewed in house, dreamy. The orange cocoa latte, scrumptious. You truly cannot go wrong with anything you order.”
The Bulldog – Uptown
3236 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 891-1516
Here’s what one customer say about The Bulldog – Uptown: “Pet friendly, huge selection of beers, great patio… Love it! Make sure you make a wish and throw that loose change in the fountain, everything goes to animal charities!”
Café Navarre
800 Navarre Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 483-8828
Here is what one reviewer says about Café Navarre: “I love this restaurant! I found it several years ago on a trip through New Orleans. I now stop there every chance I get. Great food ,friendly people and a fantastic atmosphere. And for people in and around Nola lots of outdoor seating. So less Restrictive.”
The Backyard
244 W Harrison Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 309-8767
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Backyard: “Friendly service. Got the brisket on the bun, deviled eggs, and pimento cheese dip. Super good food, ice cold beer! Dog friendly! We will be returning.”
Dat Dog
5030 Freret St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 899-6883
Here’s what one customer says of Dat Dog: “Best ‘hot dog’ ever! Actually had the Irish brat with Andoille sauce, bacon, cheddar cheese and it was so fresh & tasty! Great atmosphere. Dog friendLucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurantly…lol. Will return again and again!”
Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant
701 Tchoupitoulas St, 701 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 523-8995
Here’s what one patron says about Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant: “Super friendly to me and my dogs. Wonderful wait staff. Brought a bowl of water out for my dogs immediately. They even have their own pet menu!! Prices are very reasonable as well. I was very impressed with the service and how wonderful they were with my dogs!”
The Joint
701 Mazant St, New Orleans, LA 70117 | (504) 949-3232
Here’s what one customer says about The Joint: “Great atmosphere, super friendly, welcoming of all dogs.”Great atmosphere, super friendly, welcoming of all dogs.”
Final Word
There’s nothing like having your furry friends with you when you’re enjoying yourself, be it for entertainment or for a meal. If you’re unsure that a particular restaurant not on our list is pet-friendly, give them a call. That way, you’ll know before you go.
We know that it’s a dog-eat-dog world, but there are other restaurants you should know about. Here are the foods New Orleans is known for.
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New Orleans is planning for Mardi Gras in 2022, the mayor recently announced. That means the Southeast’s largest party is back on, despite the threat of the omicron variant of coronavirus.
The celebration will be curtailed compared to Mardi Gras in the past, she said. For instance, parade routes will be shorter and the number of first responders and police officers needed will be reduced as well.
“The big news and the best news is that Mardi Gras is returning to the city of New Orleans and to the world in 2022,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.
She also tweeted: “No krewe is being moved from their traditional day. Every parade will be asked to make SLIGHT accommodations No one is being singled out! No one is being given special treatment!”
When Is Mardi Gras 2022?
Mardi Gras is Tuesday, March 1, 2022. Parades route adjustments will be make by all krewes, according to Cantrell.
During the pandemic, New Orleans residents pivoted to “house floats” to keep the spirit alive. This year, the city will continue house floats along with the actual revelry of Mardi Gras.
Final Word
If you plan to visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras, you are in for the time of your life. You’ll love it. At the same time, no matter what city you visit, always be mindful of your environment. There are pickpockets and scammers in every big cities in the world. If you plan to walk down Bourbon Street, you especially need to be careful.
Travel to New Orleans can be really fun is you plan accordingly. You’ll love the laid back vibes of the people and the instant parties in the streets.
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If you live in Louisiana or anywhere around the Gulf Coast, you well know the dangers of a flood vehicle. It may look OK on the outside, but under the engine and inside the car you may have a lemon.
Many dealers may have flood vehicles on their lots and not even know it, but there’s a way you can tell.
How Do You Tell That A Used Car Is A Flood Car?
This article will point out several ways you’ll be able to tell a flood vehicle. You don’t necessarily need to have an eagle eye, but you do have to be able to spot the visible signs of flood, namely rust. But there’s more to it than that.
Look For These 5 Signs On A flood Vehicle
Hurricanes are a yearly occurrence in Louisiana and Florida, so those two states especially have to be on guard against a vehicle market that contains flood-damaged vehicles.
You need to especially be on guard against vehicles written off as “salvage” or “totaled.” Their titles might not disclose that they’ve been in a flood. But here’s how you can tell:
1. Check the VIN
You can use a free VIN checker to find to find out the history of the vehicle you’re interested in. A VIN (vehicle identification number) will list the historical data about the car, including the status of its title.
VehicleHistory.com offers a free VIN check so you can find out about a vehicle really quick.
2. Check Under The Hood
Open the hood of the vehicle and look for signs of rusted metal around the engine. The wirings will also show a corrosion or faded color that could indicate flooding.
A glimpse at the gauges under the hood like the water meter and oil filter will also show water signs.
3. Inspect The Car’s Interior
Look inside the car to see if the fabric on the seats is faded or discolored in any way. Also, you’ll want to pay attention to the dashboard and look for cracks (this could also be caused by heat).
The seatbelts may have crud inside the fasteners, so that’s another sign to look out for.
4. Get The Car Examined
See if you can get a mechanic to look at the vehicle for flood damage. The mechanic shouldn’t give the car a simple once over, he or she should thoroughly examine under the car’s hood, the interior and trunk.
If the mechanic says the car does not have any flood damage, there’s still one way you can find out…
5. Ask The Car’s Owner
If you ask the car’s owner if it’s been in a flood, more than likely they will tell you the truth. If they’re not honest, then they will be committing fraud, which is a felony.
Because they have a major incentive to be honest, a quick question about whether the car has been in a flood should suffice in most cases.
Final Word
Flood-damaged vehicles are the biggest problem facing people who are shopping for cars. But you can protect yourself.
Remember to check out the car’s service history. You can do this by either calling the dealership where the car has been serviced or by asking if the previous owner kept the records.
And don’t forget about the free VIN check, which will save you a lot of time.
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