By Any Measurement

It doesn’t matter how you gauge the success of a community, by any measurement New Orleans in February blows the lid off the calibration standard.

Carnival will be in full swing for the entire month, culminating on the last day with Mardi Gras. Once again, the National Basketball Association brings to town one of their showcase events, The NBA All-Star Game, in the middle of Carnival craziness. Superstar Billy Joel puts on a show, and the Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon rolls.

Those are merely the high points. Many communities would give up a suburb for a lineup like that. And keep in mind that in New Orleans, there’s no such thing as a “long winter’s nap.”

You owe your body and your senses a bit of quiet time, a refresher. Head in the direction of Mid-City – Faubourg St. John specifically – and relax at Café Degas, a true French bistro in a French town. Linger under the mighty oaks. Gather your wits. Sip an original and delightful cocktail before jumping back into the madness that is New Orleans in February.

Bayou St. John

2 ounces Hendrick’s Gin
¾ ounce Absentroux (herbal wine)
1½ ounce Lillet Rose
½ cup rose water

Garnish: Cucumber slice
Shake all ingredients together then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with cucumber slice.