Latest news with #Brennan's

News18

21-07-2025

Entertainment
News18

COOLinary Extravaganza In New Orleans

Last Updated: COOLinary New Orleans event puts a spotlight on the city's vibrant food scene offering multi-course, prix-fixe meals at celebrated restaurants across town In New Orleans, food is more than just a culinary pleasure; it reflects the city's rich history and evolving culture. From beloved local favourites like beignets and gumbo to globally inspired dishes served at iconic restaurants; the city offers an unforgettable dining experience at every turn. COOLinary New Orleans event puts a spotlight on the city's vibrant food scene offering multi-course, prix-fixe meals at celebrated restaurants across town. This month-long event is the best time to explore the flavours of the city, reaffirming New Orleans as a top destination for food lovers everywhere. Experience mouth-watering menus at the following participating New Orleans restaurants all August. Antoine's Restaurant – Antoine's in the French Quarter offers traditional French Creole fare, as well as updated classics, in its beautiful and historic restaurant setting and 14 private dining rooms. Arnaud's Restaurant – Classic Creole cuisine with a charming French Quarter ambience featuring the traditional nostalgic main dining room or the lively jazz bistro with a strolling jazz trio. Experience the unique Mardi Gras Museum and James Beard-winning French 75 Bar. Atchafalaya Restaurant – Atchafalaya is known as an establishment that embraces New Orleans culinary traditions while pushing boundaries with innovative food and a smart cocktail menu. Brennan's – For nearly seven decades, Brennan's has charmed the palates and hearts of patrons with its splendid ambience, impeccable service, and authentic Creole cuisine. Masterful dishes like Bananas Foster and Eggs Hussarde are Brennan's originals, and the restaurant today is a dazzling display of New Orleans's illustrious past persevering in the present. Brigtsen's Restaurant Brigtsen's offers modern Creole/Acadian cuisine served in a charming Victorian cottage by owners Frank and Marna Brigtsen. Commander's Palace Restaurant The quintessential New Orleans dining experience loved by locals and visitors alike, and recognised with James Beard awards for food and service, and Wine Spectator's Grand Award, is a testament to Southern hospitality. Criollo Restaurant & Lounge Criollo is the Spanish word for Creole, and true to its name, Criollo presents an amalgamation of Spanish, Italian, French, Caribbean, and African cuisines. Fresh, local produce and a seasonal menu reflect an appreciation for contemporary culinary tastes. Crescent City Steaks is one of the best steak houses in the city, serving a wide selection of delicious, well-prepared steaks. Their bacon-wrapped filet is a must for meat-lovers alike. Charlie's Steak House Located in uptown New Orleans, Charlie's is the oldest steak house in New Orleans, serving sizzling steaks since 1932. Cafe Normandie Café Normandie captures the national affinity for French culture sparked by WWII by preparing French-influenced cuisine in the beautiful space of the Higgins Hotel. Gautreau's Restaurant An upscale restaurant nestled in the heart of Uptown offering delicious French-Contemporary cuisine with favourites including Duck Confit, sautéed Red Snapper, and roasted duck and a changing, innovative wine list. GW Fins New Orleans premier, upscale seafood destination and locally owned, James Beard-nominated GW Fins is nationally celebrated for serving only the most pristine seafood at its seasonal peak with a menu that changes daily, created by acclaimed Executive Chef Michael Nelson. Operating since 1992, Chef Greg Sonnier, a 2004 James Beard finalist, serves Louisiana Cajun and Creole-inspired cuisine at this fine dining neighbourhood restaurant. La Boca Steakhouse Independently owned New Orleans steakhouse inspired by the 'parilladas" of Argentina, La Boca offers the largest variety of cuts in the city. The wine list is purely Argentine and offers the widest selection of the best wines of that region. Lemoyne's Landing- Enjoy good food with a view of the river in the backdrop of oldies, pop, and dance music at Lemoyne's Landing. Nobu-Caesars New Orleans- Nobu is a universally celebrated Japanese restaurant recognised for pioneering a new style of Japanese cuisine. The menu features Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's signature dishes, such as the Black Cod Miso and Rock Shrimp Tempura, as well as other unique dishes. Origen Bistro, LLC- Origen Bistro is an upscale Venezuelan cuisine in Bywater, serving fine wine, cocktails, and innovative creations by Chef Julio Machado in a warm atmosphere. Osteria Lupo- Osteria Lupo showcases Northern Italian cuisine with a variety of house-made pastas, roasted meats and vegetables from the wood-fired oven, seafood, and other regional specialities. Pigeon & Whale- P&W is a cocktail and oyster bar boasting the largest selection of oysters and caviar in New Orleans, unique takes on Coastal flavours, and craft cocktails focusing on Negronis. Rib Room- Located in the Omni Royal Orleans hotel in the heart of the French Quarter, Rib Room blends tradition and relevance, offering a fine dining experience for more than 60 years. Ralph's On the Park- Recognised by Bon Appetit, New York Times and the Washington Post for fine cuisine, Ralph's on the Park offers food fresh from local farms and waters, along with spectacular views of City Park's moss-draped oaks. Rizzuto's Prime- Rizzuto's Prime, located inside the New Orleans Hyatt Regency Hotel, offers an elegant private event space ideal for small gatherings up to 180 guests for a seated dinner or 250 guests for a reception-style event. Specialising in premium seafood, steaks, and classic Italian cuisine, Rizzuto's Prime delivers a sophisticated dining experience in the heart of New Orleans. San Lorenzo & Paradise Lounge- Hotel Saint Vincent's signature all-day restaurant, named for the patron saint of cooks, is an ode to coastal Italian cooking with regional New Orleans influences. The timeless design is grand, with lush modern touches and outdoor seating. Paradise Lounge, the hotel's lobby bar, is an airy and sun-drenched space (with an outdoor porch patio) open to guests looking for an all-day destination with coffee, cocktails, and food. The Elysian Bar- Located in the city's Marigny neighbourhood within a renovated rectory, church and courtyard of Hotel Peter & Paul, The Elysian Bar is a beautiful public space, bar and restaurant for those who are looking to have an exceptional dining experience. The familiar yet elevated menu paired with a completely domestic wine list and a large menu of aperitivo and classic cocktails invites guests in for the perfect meal. The Pelican Club- Chef Richard Hughes offers a rich legacy of Louisiana cuisine with contemporary preparations of the finest fresh ingredients, including Gulf shrimp, Maine lobster, and Black Angus steaks in a clubby townhouse with paintings by local artists. top videos View all Tujague's Restaurant- The second-oldest restaurant in New Orleans, operating for more than 160 years, Tujague's has retained its reputation for providing an unforgettable dining experience. Zasu- In Mid-City, Chef Sue Zemanick's Zasu (James Beard Award-Best Chef: South 2013) explores new ways to inspire traditional favourites, creating a dining experience that is clean and light, but rich in experience. About the Author Lifestyle Desk Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, More The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 21, 2025, 20:59 IST News lifestyle » travel COOLinary Extravaganza In New Orleans Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. 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Trump's student visa pause threatens restaurant staffing

Axios

30-05-2025

Business
Axios

Trump's student visa pause threatens restaurant staffing

Since reopening in 2014, Brennan's Restaurant in the French Quarter has struggled to stay fully staffed — but general manager Christian Pendleton says they've gotten closer in recent years thanks to overseas recruiting. Why it matters: Now, that's in jeopardy as the Trump administration cracks down on the student visas that Brennan's and others in the hospitality industry use to fill their ranks. Catch up quick: Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a directive this week ordering U.S. embassies to pause student visa applications, Axios' Jason Lalljee reports. The Trump administration is also considering requiring a review of visa applicants' social media. State of play: At Brennan's, which needs about 250 people to operate, the restaurant hires staff as interns through culinary and hospitality schools in the students' home countries. Once here, they work through a yearlong track either in front-of-house hospitality or in the kitchen, owner Ralph Brennan tells Axios New Orleans. The students, Brennan said, earn the same wages and benefits as their local counterparts. How it works: The visas that interns for Brennan's and other hospitality industry employers use fall under the J-1 category, which is impacted by the pause. F-1 visas are for those enrolled in academic programs, such as at colleges and universities, and J-1 visas are for those enrolled in specific educational exchange programs. What they're saying:"We were worried about places that could take students just to use them as cheap labor, but we don't feel that way," said Princes Arevalo, a previous Brennan's exchange staffer, in a 2016 conversation with The Times-Picayune's Ian McNulty. "We feel lucky to be here, because they have a program and a plan for us." Brennan declined to connect Axios New Orleans with a current student out of concern for their visa status. Flashback: Soon after the restaurant's 2014 reopening, Pendleton went to Brennan with an idea to explore hiring students from overseas. "Ralph was apprehensive," Pendleton said during a media event this week. "He wanted Americans to have these jobs, especially New Orleanians." But, eventually, as hiring remained difficult, Brennan relented, telling him to "give it a shot," Pendleton recalled. Pendleton hit the road to interview students interested in learning high-end hospitality in the Southern U.S. He has since made near-annual recruiting trips. The first group of students came from the Philippines. Soon enough, others followed from Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe and South Africa, especially. "The first year … we interviewed like 600 kids," Pendleton said, noting that the hiring source has been especially valuable since the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, the interns have become a unique part of Brennan's staff as they experience life in New Orleans and exchange cultural experiences — especially food — with their new colleagues. By the numbers: Today, about 10% of Brennan's staff are J-1 visa holders, Brennan says, which is the most the government allows. If their ability to continue the program disappears, Brennan says, "it will have an impact." "It won't be crushing," he clarifies, "but I hope it doesn't [disappear] because it's been a very successful program for us." What we're watching: It's not clear when the Trump administration will lift its pause on visa application interviews. "I don't know what [the post-pause] process will be, but we've had no trouble with any of these individuals because they're here to learn," Brennan said. "They ask a lot of questions, they work really hard, they want to learn and take their skills back to their home country."

Mixing Tradition with Flavor: Iconic Cocktails of Louisiana

News18

21-05-2025

Entertainment
News18

Mixing Tradition with Flavor: Iconic Cocktails of Louisiana

Last Updated: Sip your way through Louisiana with iconic cocktails that tell the story of the state's rich culture, history, and flavor in every glass. News18 Cocktails in Louisiana are a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and celebration with every sip. Known for its deep-rooted history in mixology, some of the most iconic drinks in the world originate here. New Orleans is the birthplace of America's first cocktail, the Sazerac, filled with a bold flavor. The Hurricane instantly recognizable for its fruity flavours was also concocted in Louisiana. The cocktail scene in Louisiana is as vibrant and diverse as its rich cultural heritage and indulgence is the only way to appreciate its distinctive unique flavors. Looking to try the iconic cocktails while in Louisiana? Here is a curated list of drinks you should try and unravel the true story behind its origin. Brandy Milk Punch: Don't be fooled by the name of this drink because it packs a punch through the rich and creamy flavor it emanates. Sip this cocktail at Brennan's, the restaurant that is credited for perfecting it and handing a true classic drink to the world. Sazerac: America's first cocktail and officially the drink that New Orleans swears by, it is a perfect representation of Louisiana. The cocktail is made with delicious Sazerac rye whiskey that also lends its name to the drink. Blended with Herbsaint, Peychaud's Bitters, sugar and lemon peel, Sazerac is a classic cocktail loved by all. While in Louisiana we recommend you to try the Sazerac at The Sazerac Bar, or The Sazerac House and enjoy an immersive experience with exhibits and tastings. Vieux Carre Cocktail: An original invention from Louisiana, this cocktail is a unique mix of Bénédictine, Cognac, Rye whiskey and sweet vermouth. Bold in flavors and aroma, the drink is spiced to lend it a slow sip flavor. Vieux Carre was developed in 1937 at Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans by head bartender Water Bargeron. French 75: A strong drink, this is perfect to celebrate a grand victory. The ingredients in this cocktail are simple, lemon and cognac, however the bubbly drink gives the right kick to patrons. Try French 75 at Arnaud's restaurant to enjoy the ambience and grandeur of Louisiana's past. Grasshopper: Trust us it's just a name and has no grasshoppers in it! The sweet taste of chocolate and mint lends the drink its unique name. Philip Guichet Sr. is credited with the invention of the cocktail. He traveled to New York City to participate in a cocktail competition in 1918 and entered this libation and won second place. He then brought the recipe back home to New Orleans. La Louisane Cocktail: The La Louisiane Cocktail is not for the faint of heart. Made with rye whiskey, vermouth, Bénédictine, D.O.M liqueur, absinthe, bitters and a cherry garnish, this one is a true original from New Orleans going back to the 1800s. top videos View all So, next time you are in Louisiana, don't forget to raise your glass and enjoy the timeless flavors from the state. Partnered Post Location : Noida, India, India First Published: May 21, 2025, 15:55 IST News studio18 Mixing Tradition with Flavor: Iconic Cocktails of Louisiana

Hogs for the Cause, turtle parade and more things to do in New Orleans

Axios

04-04-2025

Entertainment
Axios

Hogs for the Cause, turtle parade and more things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans ' event schedule is popping off this weekend. Here are our picks for things to do. 🐷 Hogs for the Cause is Friday and Saturday at the UNO Lakefront. The fundraiser has more than 90 BBQ teams and live music. (Tickets) We'll be judging the food Friday. Say hi! 🕯️ National Vodou Day: Organizers host events all weekend, including an art show, educational symposium and Vodou ceremony at Congo Square. (Schedule) 🇩🇪 Volksfest is at Deutsches Haus all weekend with traditional German music, food and drinks. (Details) 🐢 Brennan's hosts its 10th annual turtle parade Saturday in the French Quarter. The wagon floats start at Bienville and Chartres streets at 10:30am and end at the restaurant. (Details) 🏴‍☠️ Arrrgh! Family Pyrate Day is a free event Saturday in Algiers Point. (Details) 🛞 Monster Jam is Saturday at the Caesars Superdome. (Tickets) 🖼️ The Ogden Museum of Southern Art has free admission Saturday, along with family-friendly crafts and music. (Details)

‘VIP' bettors say sportsbooks keep them playing, no matter the cost

Washington Post