Sounds like gardening, sailing, sunbathing and long walks are not on the agenda this weekend, so I offer the following for your relaxation pleasure.
“Top Chef Amateurs” gives talented home cooks the opportunity of a lifetime to test their skills in the “Top Chef” kitchen. Fans of Chef Isaac Toups of Toups Meatery have two more chances to catch him on “Top Chef Amateurs.” Tonight, Aug. 26, our local superstar will be among the panel of judges to determine who will be the last amateur standing in the Steak and Potatoes Challenge. Next Thursday, he will serve as a mentor chef to one of the home cook contestants in the Mis en Place Challenge, the season finale.
“Top Chef Amateurs” airs on Bravo at 8 p.m. tonight and next Thursday evening at the same time.
Cochon Butcher is now offering what sounds like amazing fried chicken on Saturdays. “It is soaked for 24 hours in ice water and hot sauce, salt and pepper, dredged in flour and a touch of cornstarch to keep it crunchy. Then, we twice fry it so it stays crunchy… its delicious,” says Chef Stephen Stryjewski, one who knows good grub. This bit of Nirvana (we could all use some Nirvana right about now) is available for both in-house dining and for take-out and 3-4 pieces (depends on whether you want light or dark meat) come with sides of deviled egg potato salad and bacon-braised collard greens for $20.
Hot and raining make for perfect museum weather. Aug. 31 is the last day of New Orleans & Company’s Annual Museum Month Program, through which local museums offer their members and a guest the opportunity to use their current membership to visit all participating institutions, FREE OF CHARGE. Twenty-three museums are participating including new museums such as the Louisiana Children’s Museum, the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, and the Sazerac House. See the full list of participating museums here. The offer is valid for two entry fees per membership.
The last day to take advantage of all the amazing COOLinary menus is Sept. 5. The program offers diners the opportunity to enjoy special two- and three-course lunch menus for $25 or less and three-course dinner and brunch menus for $45 or less. Check out a full list of participating restaurants here.
Have a nice weekend, everyone. Y’all play nice.
