Wag Time: Holiday Festivities with Fido
Wag Time: Holiday Festivities with Fido
Wag Time: Holiday Festivities with Fido
It’s that magical time of year bustling with holiday festivities, celebratory cocktailing, family feasts—oh, and this little thing we call Mardi Gras! While you’re making spirits bright, your favorite furry friend yearns to be part of the joy of the season, too! Whether you are heading out for a decadent dining experience with your krewe, or a few toddies to toast the season, there are plenty of places to enjoy with your special Santa paws. Happy Howl-idays!
American Townhouse
504.354.8533; atnola.com
North Rampart Street continues to undergo a renaissance with new restaurants and upscale bars, breathing life into the well-traveled corridor. American Townhouse, which swung open its doors in late June, is one of the places bringing vibrancy back to the area. Owners Matt Giglio and Bryce Scholl are not new to the bar and restaurant scene, with over 30 years of experience, 13 of which as the owners of the 700 Club. “We wanted to own a building and we live up the street from this space, so when it came up for sale, we jumped at it,” explained Matt. The building, which underwent an extensive two-year renovation, had everything they dreamed of, from the outdoor space and high ceilings to the balcony. The duo set out to create a modern, approachable, stylish bar and eatery, and make no bones about it—mission accomplished. The name comes from the architectural style of the building, but for Matt, it also represents an inclusive, eclectic vibe “much like our menus, staff and clientele.” The fetching space is perfectly accented with colorful artwork by New Orleans native David McPherson, who created the paintings specifically for American Townhouse. They offer an extensive craft cocktail selection and tasty tidbits with an international flair such as black garlic truffle potato chips, crunchy pork rinds tossed in Cajun spices, or blistered shishito peppers with minced garlic and butter, topped with cojita cheese. The Wagyu Beef burger—two 3-oz patties with house-made pickles, baby spinach and mayo on a brioche bun—is more than woof-worthy. Same with the sweet heat chicken sandwich, brioche tossed in honey Siracha glaze with mayo, red cabbage and house-made pickles. Lightly, but equally as tasty, are the poke tuna tostadas: fresh seasoned ahi tuna with guacamole, cilantro and jalapeno dressing; and the Hawaiian street tacos: three grilled chicken tacos served with red cabbage, cilantro, Cojita cheese and pineapple jalapeno salsa. Bring Fido along for Friday Happy Hour from 5–7 p.m. in the pet-friendly courtyard for $5 martinis. Currently, Sunday brunch is offered, but will be kicked up starting in February with an expanded menu and bottomless mimosas. Sip original cocktails including seasonal, frozen libations (from frosé and Pimm’s cup to egg nog during the holidays and a King Cake flavor for Mardi Gras), local brews or wine on tap. There’s a second-floor private event space to accommodate 50 seated guests, though the entire building can host up to 300. Matt and Bryce are proud papas to the Italian Mastiffs Filet, who weighs a whopping 160 pounds, and his smaller brother Gumbo, a mere 120-pounder. “They are spoiled rotten,” said Matt. American Townhouse is sure to spoil your pack, too!
Effervescence
1036 N. Rampart St; nolabubbles.com
Housed in an 1890’s Victorian center-hall cottage that was formerly a private residence, this charming sparkling wine lounge and eatery has been pleasing palates since 2017. The extensive bubbly list, sparkling craft cocktails and creative small bites make this lively spot the perfect place to pawty with Spot! The menu boasts more than 200 bottles of bubbly (wine, beer and cocktails are also available), 30-plus by-the-glass options and several sparkling wine flights to perfectly toast the season. Best of all, Fido is welcome to enjoy the festivities in the quaint courtyard or people-watch out front. The friendly staff will even bring your pooch his own water bowl. Pair your bubbles with tempting bites, including tasty truffle pommes frites with shaved Burgundy truffles and Dijon aioli; chilled crab claws with passion fruit remoulade; tail-wagging good Louisiana Wagyu short rib with shishito peppers; and heavenly dark chocolate pot de crème. Caviar fans will rejoice with briny selections from Cajun Caviar to Golden Osetra, served with house-made potato chips, crème fraîche and chives. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a visit from the resident pup, Lola, an eight-year-old mini Goldendoodle, who goes to work daily with Mom/Owner Crystal Hinds Coco. “She’s a real morale booster for our staff. Lola comes in with me before we open, she spends the day in my office and helps clean up after closing,” Crystal says. That’s one bone-afied team player! Effervescence offers Happy Hour every Friday and Saturday from 4–5 p.m. with drink and food specials, and be sure to check out the website for Movie Nights. Flicks are shown both indoors and out, so your pupper can enjoy the show, too!
Patois
6078 Laurel St; patoisnola.com
Located in Uptown New Orleans, this quant neighborhood gem has been wowing diners with its Louisianan cuisine with a French flair for nearly 15 years. Chef/Owner Aaron Burgau honed his culinary skills working side-by-side with some of city’s top chefs, including Susan Spicer and Gerard Maras. Patois has been recognized in local and national publications and in 2014, Chef Aaron was crowned King of Louisiana Seafood at the annual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off competition. Bring Fido along for al fresco dining and treat yourself to a creative craft cocktail like the Hibiscus Night—gin, lime, hibiscus simple syrup, triple sec and cucumber, or a N.O. Fashion made with house-infused bourbon with blueberries and local oranges, allspice syrup, Luxardo cherry, Peychaud and Angostura bitters. Bad-to-the-bone appetizers include grilled lamb ribs with green tomato relish, seasonal gumbo and roasted beet salad (includes pickled ramps, feta, and fried garbanzo beans with creamy lemon tahini dressing). Paw-some entrée options include seared scallops with roasted cauliflower, confit fingerling potatoes, sautéed mushrooms and bacon vinaigrette; grilled hanger steak with sweet potatoes, broccoli, roasted cipollini onions and bordelaise; and eggplant parmesan with basil pistou and spaghetti squash. Check out brunch, starring shrimp and grits with black garlic, preserved lemon and garlic breadcrumbs; and a Cuban Madame made with ham, smoked pork, Dijon mustard, gruyere cheese, bread and butter pickles, manchego custard and sunny side up egg. Now that sounds like the ulti-mutt feast!
Rosedale
801 Rosedale Dr; rosedalerestaurant.com
Nestled in the Navarre neighborhood sits this charming, casual eatery run by renowned chef Susan Spice of Bayona and Mondo and managing partner Jonas Owens, who spent years working with Susan at Bayona. “We’re very pet-friendly here and love our furry guests,” said Susan, who is mom to a 12-year-old Feist Terrier named Rattler, whom she rescued from Jefferson Feed, and four felines named Tom, Bat, Sausage and Trogg. Jonas has a Pit Bull Terrier rescue named Beso, who was ill treated, but is super friendly and now lives the highlife. Rosedale is located in a historically significant building which once housed the former Third District Police station that served Lakeview, West End and Gentilly for over 50 years. The site itself is where Louis Armstrong learned to play the trumpet in 1913. Today, however, the hot spot will have you rolling over for its delish comfort-style cuisine with a distinct Louisiana flair. Chef Susan sources local ingredients to create fetching fare, including shrimp Creole with Louisiana rice and fried eggplant; fried cauliflower with pepper jelly and crab boil aioli; fried chicken with mac n’ cheese, smothered greens and Tabasco honey; cochon de lait po’boy with Creolaise, slaw and fried pickle; and a divine pecan pie with vanilla ice cream. Celebrate the season with your favorite furry pal in the outdoor space while sipping a specialty cocktail such as Bubbles & Elders—a tasty blend of sparkling wine, St. Elder and lemon juice—or opt for a classic old-fashioned or Manhattan. There’s also an eclectic selection of wine on draft sold by-the-glass or carafe, and several local brew options from Urban South, Zony Mash, Port Orleans, Parish Brewing Company, NOLA Brewing and Second Line Brewing. Pups are given water bowls, so Fido can toast, too. You’re sure to dig up something tempting at Rosedale to get your tail wagging. Bone-appetit!
The Tasting Room
1906 Magazine St; ttrneworleans.com
It’s an exciting time at The Tasting Room! Since assuming ownership in 2019, owner Christopher Jones, who has an affinity for Boston Terriers and currently has a precious one named Steve Austin, has taken the cozy wine bar and restaurant to the next level and once again, he’s moving up—literally. The laid-back, welcoming spot now has a newly remodeled upstairs space available for private functions, special events, live music and wine and food pairings. And with more square footage comes the need unleash a new menu, so the team brought in Danielle Gonzalzles to tail-or make the perfect one! Danielle joins The Tasting Room with more than 20 years of culinary experience, from corporate to fine dining. She is a new transplant to New Orleans, originally from Chicago. Dig into savory selections, such as the meatball carbonara: two meatballs topped with house-made white wine carbonara sauce, shredded bacon and quail egg, served with toast; or the Bourbon burger, a 6-oz steak burger with house-made Bourbon jam and cheddar cheese. You’ll find several doggone tasty vegetarian options, such as the crispy potatoes—fried fingerling potatoes tossed in house-made pesto with shaved Parmesan. And with Chef Danielle’s extensive pastry background, you’re sure to find several paws-itively delicious desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t miss the popular Sunday Brunch (complete with biweekly drag shows!) with $25 bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys. Enjoy the quaint courtyard, or grab a sidewalk seat with your fur baby to sip unique wines or choose from the fine collection of scotch, tequila and whiskey. Pair your libation of choice with the Tasting Room Board, a savory selection of cheeses, charcuterie and seasonal accoutrements perfect to share with your pack. Take in Happy Hour with Fido Monday thru Friday from 4–6 p.m. or enjoy half-priced wine by the bottle every Wednesday from 6–10 p.m. Water bowls are provided for your pooch, so you can both sip in style.
American Townhouse
504.354.8533; atnola.com
North Rampart Street continues to undergo a renaissance with new restaurants and upscale bars, breathing life into the well-traveled corridor. American Townhouse, which swung open its doors in late June, is one of the places bringing vibrancy back to the area. Owners Matt Giglio and Bryce Scholl are not new to the bar and restaurant scene, with over 30 years of experience, 13 of which as the owners of the 700 Club. “We wanted to own a building and we live up the street from this space, so when it came up for sale, we jumped at it,” explained Matt. The building, which underwent an extensive two-year renovation, had everything they dreamed of, from the outdoor space and high ceilings to the balcony. The duo set out to create a modern, approachable, stylish bar and eatery, and make no bones about it—mission accomplished. The name comes from the architectural style of the building, but for Matt, it also represents an inclusive, eclectic vibe “much like our menus, staff and clientele.” The fetching space is perfectly accented with colorful artwork by New Orleans native David McPherson, who created the paintings specifically for American Townhouse. They offer an extensive craft cocktail selection and tasty tidbits with an international flair such as black garlic truffle potato chips, crunchy pork rinds tossed in Cajun spices, or blistered shishito peppers with minced garlic and butter, topped with cojita cheese. The Wagyu Beef burger—two 3-oz patties with house-made pickles, baby spinach and mayo on a brioche bun—is more than woof-worthy. Same with the sweet heat chicken sandwich, brioche tossed in honey Siracha glaze with mayo, red cabbage and house-made pickles. Lightly, but equally as tasty, are the poke tuna tostadas: fresh seasoned ahi tuna with guacamole, cilantro and jalapeno dressing; and the Hawaiian street tacos: three grilled chicken tacos served with red cabbage, cilantro, Cojita cheese and pineapple jalapeno salsa. Bring Fido along for Friday Happy Hour from 5–7 p.m. in the pet-friendly courtyard for $5 martinis. Currently, Sunday brunch is offered, but will be kicked up starting in February with an expanded menu and bottomless mimosas. Sip original cocktails including seasonal, frozen libations (from frosé and Pimm’s cup to egg nog during the holidays and a King Cake flavor for Mardi Gras), local brews or wine on tap. There’s a second-floor private event space to accommodate 50 seated guests, though the entire building can host up to 300. Matt and Bryce are proud papas to the Italian Mastiffs Filet, who weighs a whopping 160 pounds, and his smaller brother Gumbo, a mere 120-pounder. “They are spoiled rotten,” said Matt. American Townhouse is sure to spoil your pack, too!
Effervescence
1036 N. Rampart St; nolabubbles.com
Housed in an 1890’s Victorian center-hall cottage that was formerly a private residence, this charming sparkling wine lounge and eatery has been pleasing palates since 2017. The extensive bubbly list, sparkling craft cocktails and creative small bites make this lively spot the perfect place to pawty with Spot! The menu boasts more than 200 bottles of bubbly (wine, beer and cocktails are also available), 30-plus by-the-glass options and several sparkling wine flights to perfectly toast the season. Best of all, Fido is welcome to enjoy the festivities in the quaint courtyard or people-watch out front. The friendly staff will even bring your pooch his own water bowl. Pair your bubbles with tempting bites, including tasty truffle pommes frites with shaved Burgundy truffles and Dijon aioli; chilled crab claws with passion fruit remoulade; tail-wagging good Louisiana Wagyu short rib with shishito peppers; and heavenly dark chocolate pot de crème. Caviar fans will rejoice with briny selections from Cajun Caviar to Golden Osetra, served with house-made potato chips, crème fraîche and chives. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a visit from the resident pup, Lola, an eight-year-old mini Goldendoodle, who goes to work daily with Mom/Owner Crystal Hinds Coco. “She’s a real morale booster for our staff. Lola comes in with me before we open, she spends the day in my office and helps clean up after closing,” Crystal says. That’s one bone-afied team player! Effervescence offers Happy Hour every Friday and Saturday from 4–5 p.m. with drink and food specials, and be sure to check out the website for Movie Nights. Flicks are shown both indoors and out, so your pupper can enjoy the show, too!
Patois
6078 Laurel St; patoisnola.com
Located in Uptown New Orleans, this quant neighborhood gem has been wowing diners with its Louisianan cuisine with a French flair for nearly 15 years. Chef/Owner Aaron Burgau honed his culinary skills working side-by-side with some of city’s top chefs, including Susan Spicer and Gerard Maras. Patois has been recognized in local and national publications and in 2014, Chef Aaron was crowned King of Louisiana Seafood at the annual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off competition. Bring Fido along for al fresco dining and treat yourself to a creative craft cocktail like the Hibiscus Night—gin, lime, hibiscus simple syrup, triple sec and cucumber, or a N.O. Fashion made with house-infused bourbon with blueberries and local oranges, allspice syrup, Luxardo cherry, Peychaud and Angostura bitters. Bad-to-the-bone appetizers include grilled lamb ribs with green tomato relish, seasonal gumbo and roasted beet salad (includes pickled ramps, feta, and fried garbanzo beans with creamy lemon tahini dressing). Paw-some entrée options include seared scallops with roasted cauliflower, confit fingerling potatoes, sautéed mushrooms and bacon vinaigrette; grilled hanger steak with sweet potatoes, broccoli, roasted cipollini onions and bordelaise; and eggplant parmesan with basil pistou and spaghetti squash. Check out brunch, starring shrimp and grits with black garlic, preserved lemon and garlic breadcrumbs; and a Cuban Madame made with ham, smoked pork, Dijon mustard, gruyere cheese, bread and butter pickles, manchego custard and sunny side up egg. Now that sounds like the ulti-mutt feast!
Rosedale
801 Rosedale Dr; rosedalerestaurant.com
Nestled in the Navarre neighborhood sits this charming, casual eatery run by renowned chef Susan Spice of Bayona and Mondo and managing partner Jonas Owens, who spent years working with Susan at Bayona. “We’re very pet-friendly here and love our furry guests,” said Susan, who is mom to a 12-year-old Feist Terrier named Rattler, whom she rescued from Jefferson Feed, and four felines named Tom, Bat, Sausage and Trogg. Jonas has a Pit Bull Terrier rescue named Beso, who was ill treated, but is super friendly and now lives the highlife. Rosedale is located in a historically significant building which once housed the former Third District Police station that served Lakeview, West End and Gentilly for over 50 years. The site itself is where Louis Armstrong learned to play the trumpet in 1913. Today, however, the hot spot will have you rolling over for its delish comfort-style cuisine with a distinct Louisiana flair. Chef Susan sources local ingredients to create fetching fare, including shrimp Creole with Louisiana rice and fried eggplant; fried cauliflower with pepper jelly and crab boil aioli; fried chicken with mac n’ cheese, smothered greens and Tabasco honey; cochon de lait po’boy with Creolaise, slaw and fried pickle; and a divine pecan pie with vanilla ice cream. Celebrate the season with your favorite furry pal in the outdoor space while sipping a specialty cocktail such as Bubbles & Elders—a tasty blend of sparkling wine, St. Elder and lemon juice—or opt for a classic old-fashioned or Manhattan. There’s also an eclectic selection of wine on draft sold by-the-glass or carafe, and several local brew options from Urban South, Zony Mash, Port Orleans, Parish Brewing Company, NOLA Brewing and Second Line Brewing. Pups are given water bowls, so Fido can toast, too. You’re sure to dig up something tempting at Rosedale to get your tail wagging. Bone-appetit!
The Tasting Room
1906 Magazine St; ttrneworleans.com
It’s an exciting time at The Tasting Room! Since assuming ownership in 2019, owner Christopher Jones, who has an affinity for Boston Terriers and currently has a precious one named Steve Austin, has taken the cozy wine bar and restaurant to the next level and once again, he’s moving up—literally. The laid-back, welcoming spot now has a newly remodeled upstairs space available for private functions, special events, live music and wine and food pairings. And with more square footage comes the need unleash a new menu, so the team brought in Danielle Gonzalzles to tail-or make the perfect one! Danielle joins The Tasting Room with more than 20 years of culinary experience, from corporate to fine dining. She is a new transplant to New Orleans, originally from Chicago. Dig into savory selections, such as the meatball carbonara: two meatballs topped with house-made white wine carbonara sauce, shredded bacon and quail egg, served with toast; or the Bourbon burger, a 6-oz steak burger with house-made Bourbon jam and cheddar cheese. You’ll find several doggone tasty vegetarian options, such as the crispy potatoes—fried fingerling potatoes tossed in house-made pesto with shaved Parmesan. And with Chef Danielle’s extensive pastry background, you’re sure to find several paws-itively delicious desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t miss the popular Sunday Brunch (complete with biweekly drag shows!) with $25 bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys. Enjoy the quaint courtyard, or grab a sidewalk seat with your fur baby to sip unique wines or choose from the fine collection of scotch, tequila and whiskey. Pair your libation of choice with the Tasting Room Board, a savory selection of cheeses, charcuterie and seasonal accoutrements perfect to share with your pack. Take in Happy Hour with Fido Monday thru Friday from 4–6 p.m. or enjoy half-priced wine by the bottle every Wednesday from 6–10 p.m. Water bowls are provided for your pooch, so you can both sip in style.
Tagged in Places and Spaces in our Winter 2021 issue