January often has most of the country taking a look at resolutions, lifestyles and healthy choices. But in New Orleans, we’re still ramping up our own holiday season. Fueled by king cakes, finger sandwiches, daiquiris and fried chicken, we put off making any big dietary changes until Lent. This year, Twelfth Night will launch a much-anticipated Carnival season.
I still remember the first Mardi Gras post-Katrina. There were some notable days full of sunshine and warm-enough weather. But the best part? Getting back together with those friends down the block, setting up your favorite spot along the parade route and soaking up all the generosity of the Carnival season. I am hoping that this year brings a similar sentiment, albeit possibly with more hand sanitizer.
This issue, we give a nod to those that are looking to be a little more healthy in their choices, especially at the cocktail hour. We have some of the best places to find both mocktails, no-alcohol mixes and low-alcohol creations, all of which are ideal for a night out with friends, for day drinking on the weekend or for planning to bring to the parade route.
We also have our annual Tops of the Town, featuring those neighborhood restaurants, shops, stores and businesses that we return to time and again. It’s hard to choose just one, so we feature not only our top spots, but many of those nominated by you, our readers, as your favorite places.
We have much to look forward to in 2022. May it be a healthy, fest-filled year for all.
