Renowned author Walker Percy made Covington his home. His works and life are now the inspiration for a new bar nestled in Covington’s downtown. Paradise Bar blends the charm of a French café and the warmth of a southern study, with inventive cocktails and small bites. Fans of Percy will recognize homages throughout the cocktail menu. The “Moviegoer’s Martini” features Nolet’s gin, Bordiga Bianco vermouth, Giffard Abricot du Roussillon and bitters. “Moira’s Serenade” with Corazon Blanco tequila, triple sec, guava, lime and spicy agave is described as “beautiful but a little haunted.” “Uncle Will‘s Julep” with 1792 Bourbon, mint, sugar and, unusually, nutmeg, is named for Percy‘s beloved uncle. Percy loved bourbon and juleps so much that he penned an entire essay extolling their charms. “Pink Malaise” mixes Svedka vodka, nectarine aperitif, dragon fruit and lemon. It is hard to imagine anyone feeling malaise after finishing this drink! 411 E Gibson St., Covington, 985-590-3745, @paradise_covington.
Peerless Whiskey
Peerless Distillery announces the release of the 10-year-old Henry Kraver’s Old Reserve Bourbon, the distillery’s first official age-statement bottle. Founder Henry Kraver has high standards, crafting his whiskey entirely in-house, from grain to bottle. As a result, Peerless’ accolades include “World’s Best Bourbon” in the 2024 International Wine and Spirits Competition. The nose on this whiskey features an aroma of pipe tobacco, candied peanuts and hints of port wine, while the palate’s caramelized intensity is layered with mocha coffee and toffee. Flavors of bright candied orange peel cut through the richness, and charred applewood speaks to a well-aged Kentucky bourbon. Family owned and operated, Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. was established in 1889 and resurrected in 2013. kentuckypeerless.com.
Music and More
Locals looking for a midweek, live music fix can head to the Commons Club at Virgin Hotels New Orleans for their expanding lineup of live entertainment programming inside the hotel’s signature lounge. “Wine Wednesdays” evenings feature specials on bottles of wine, which guests can enjoy while listening to live music from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests can also enjoy an extended happy hour, 4 to 7 p.m. with classic cocktails, beer and house wine by the glass. 550 Baronne St, 833-791-7700, virginhotels.com.
Sit and Stay!
The Bower and Birdy’s Behind the Bower welcome both two-and four-legged guests with their shared pet-friendly patio. Furry companions can lounge while their people enjoy an espresso martini, or a classic Birdy’s brunch board with friends. 1320 Magazine St., 504-582-9738, thebowernola.com; 504-302-2992, birdysnola.com.
Mid-City Charmant offers plenty of tail-wagging charm. Their recently opened pet-friendly patio provides an outdoor space where dogs can relax while their owners nibble charcuterie with a glass of wine or savor a decadent dinner from Chef/Owner Chris Borges. 514 City Park Ave., 504-381-4573, charmantnola.com.
For a pet-friendly staycation, The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery welcomes VIPs (Very Important Pets) for both dogs and cats. Guests can treat their pets to a curated package including a cozy pet bed, food and water bowls, treats and toys. 535 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-527-5271, old77hotel.com/hotel/pets.
A Love Story
New Orleanians have a new rooftop spot to enjoy the remaining cool spring breezes. Charles & Julia, a new cocktail bar and rooftop terrace located inside the Hotel Perle, is inspired by the fictional romance of a young couple who meet on a New Orleans streetcar. The bar’s location at the corner of St. Charles Avenue and Julia Street was the origin for this story. Charles & Julia’s two distinct spaces reflect the couple’s imagined world of travel and hospitality. Downstairs, guests enter a wine and cocktail lounge that could be the couple’s home. Upstairs, a rooftop terrace evokes the couple’s travels to Sicily, with a bar that showcases a spirit-forward cocktail program.
Charles & Julia is created by Latter Hospitality, the New Orleans-based restaurant group behind Tujague’s, The Bower, Bower Bar, and Birdy’s. Founder and CEO Mark Latter describes the concept as “a space centered around storytelling, hospitality, and the kind of experiences that invite people to linger and connect.” 757 St. Charles Ave., 504-222-2727, hotelperle.com.
