In 2001, Restaurant August opened its doors, fast becoming a destination for Contemporary Louisiana Creole fine dining. Executive Chef Corey Thomas continues the tradition outlined in the beginning with a celebration of the region’s culture and flavors. On the 25th of each month throughout 2026, diners can take part in the celebrations with a series of culinary and cultural anniversary activities. “Reaching 25 years in a city with rich and storied culinary traditions like New Orleans is no easy feat and is a direct result of our dedication to sustaining our community through heartfelt hospitality,” said Octavio Mantilla, co-founder and co-owner of BRG Hospitality, in a press release. The restaurant has raked in countless accolades in its quarter century, including Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence and, most recently, inclusion in Michelin’s new 2025 American South Guide. restaurantaugust.com
Get Piggy With It
For 18 years, Hogs for the Cause has slung barbecue to the masses and millions of dollars in financial grants to hospitals and more than 2,300 families. The charity event is back, taking over the UNO Lakefront Arena Festival Grounds on April 10 and 11. Over 90 teams — from chefs to amateurs — will face off for the barbecue competition amid the backdrop of live music and tens of thousands of hungry carnivores. hogsfest.org
Heart-Centered Hospitality
In March, Les Dames d’Escoffier International New Orleans announced recipients of its 2026 Leading from the Heart Awards. The annual awards honors women in the Greater New Orleans area “making a meaningful impact in hospitality, sustainability and food justice.” This year, the awards (and a $2,500 grant for each) go to Martha Wiggins, executive chef and chief culinary officer at Café Reconcile; Chassidy Walker, lead bartender at Fritai; and Ashley Webb, co-founder of Barcelo Gardens. lesdamesnola.org
Cafe Connections
This spring, Mandeville is getting an Evolve Coffee + Matcha location, as the café, founded in 2020 by New Orleans native Yvonne Pichoff, expands to the Northshore. Seekers of mindful connection over ceremonial-grade matcha imported from Japan, sustainably sourced espresso and craft coffee beverage (as well as delectable pastries and sandwiches) will find it at Evolve. The new location, at 2891 Highway 190, will feature the open, airy setting patrons of the Metairie and Lakeshore locations have come to love. evolvecoffeenola.com
Every Bunny Loves Brunch
Here comes Peter Cottontail and he’s hungry. Belly up to the buffet at Public Service Restaurant inside the NOPSI Hotel on April 5 for an Easter feast that has everything from seafood to rabbit food. The lavish meal begins with a welcome mimosa or mocktail. From there, expect made-to-order omelets, biscuits with gravy, various salad options (including a Muffuletta orzo pasta salad) and soups, such as duck gumbo and roasted butternut squash bisque. The entrée station is loaded with a choice of pork osso bucco in a rosemary demi-glace; redfish with roasted corn relish; pan-seared chicken with roasted garlic cream sauce; and braised beef short ribs. At the seafood bar, get shrimp, crawfish, crab claws and smoked salmon. If you have any room left, hop on over to the dessert bar for pecan or lemon ice box pie, banana pudding, chocolate cake and, of course, carrot cake. Reservations required. publicservicenola.com
