Gerrish Lopez

In New Orleans, “Where are you eating?” is an essential question. Visitors have a list to check off and locals have favorites to revisit again and again, while keeping an eye on the newest openings. The best restaurants in New Orleans draw diners in with a combination of history, hospitality and charm, representing the mix of cultures that make the city what it is. Iconic spots like Dooky Chase’s and Commander’s Palace proudly maintain their role in culinary history, while newer spots like Saffron and Queen Trini Lisa move the scene forward with new approaches and ingredients. The city’s most beloved restaurants serve up a tantalizing assortment of options, from Creole, Italian, Vietnamese, contemporary Cajun, classic po-boys and a whole lot more. February 2026: The Michelin Guide has expanded to include Louisiana and other Southern states, and New Orleans, unsurprisingly, was bestowed with plenty of honors. Three restaurants earned stars, including the new incarnation of Emeril’s famed restaurant, now led by his son E.J. The guide handed out quite a few Bib Gourmand Honors and recognized several other local standouts like Turkey and the Wolf and Dakar, now making an appearance on our list. Carnival season kicks off a busier time for the city, and the party doesn’t slow down, so here are the best restaurants in New Orleans, where every meal—from high-end and elegant to hole-in-the-wall—is a celebration. RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in New Orleans🍩 The best beignets in New Or

The matchup has been decided and the championship game is almost here. Super Bowl LX will take place in Santa Clara, California on February 8. The New England Patriots have made a big comeback since Tom Brady’s departure and are aiming to best the Seattle Seahawks once again in a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX. The Patriots have six Super Bowl wins, while the Seahawks have just one. Aside from the big game, Bad Bunny performing at the halftime show is already generating a huge buzz, but the pre-game music lineup is set to be one for the books too. Green Day will kick things off with an opening ceremony, Charlie Puth will perform the national anthem, Brandi Carlile will perform “America the Beautiful” and Coco Jones will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” If you haven’t already, it’s time to gather your Super Bowl snacks and make plans for the big game. Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch and stream Super Bowl LX at home. Who’s playing in Super Bowl LX? The New England Patriots will take on the Seattle Seahawks. When and where is Super Bowl LX taking place? The Super Bowl will be held on Sunday, February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, CA. What time does Super Bowl 2026 start? The start time for Super Bowl 2026 is 6:30pm EST. What channel is the Super Bowl on in the U.S.? Super Bowl LX will be televised live on NBC. It will also be broadcast on Telemundo in Spanish. Where can you stream the 2026 Super Bowl? Super Bowl 60 will be available to stream on Peaco

You can’t visit New Orleans without hearing music. Literally—just walk down the street and you’ll hear music coming from clubs, restaurants, schools and homes. The live music calendar at clubs around the city is packed every night of the week with local musicians of all genres. Festivals large and small celebrate local and regional music, from zydeco and blues to funk and brass. But New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and there’s something special about hearing it in the city where it all began. There are many places to hear jazz in New Orleans, and no visit to the city is complete without catching a show or two. Whether you prefer smooth contemporary jazz or the toe-tapping energy of a traditional jazz band, there’s always a spot to see it live. You can start your day with a jazz brunch at famed restaurants like Commander’s Palace and Arnaud’s, or hit the town in the evening to listen through the night. Legendary local artists like Kermit Ruffins, Jeremy Davenport, Doreen Ketchens and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band keep the scene alive, performing in intimate lounges and historic venues across town, while up-and-comers are also given the spotlight to shine. Like what you hear? Be sure to tip the band. And stop by iconic record shops like Louisiana Music Factory and Euclid Records to take some of the music home with you. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🍻 The best bars in New Orleans🍴 The best restaurants in New Orleans🏘️ The best neighborhoods in New

Your New Orleans to-do list obviously includes plenty of eating and drinking, but the city offers far more than the indulgence it’s known for. Music, history, art and culture are all celebrated here. The best things to do in New Orleans will give you a feel for its unique culture, but they’re also just plain fun. The city is home to award-winning museums, beautiful parks, funky shops, gorgeous architecture and of course world-renowned music. The French Quarter, of course, plays a starring role on any visitor’s itinerary, but from Uptown to the Garden District to Bywater you can experience a different vibe in neighborhoods beyond that famed spot. The city is a feast for the eyes and ears, with iconic attractions and activities around every corner. New Orleans’ music calendar is packed, so you can dance the night away to whatever you’re into, from jazz, blues and brass to funk, soul or hip-hop. History buffs will find plenty of stories throughout the city, from historic homes to centuries-old cemeteries. Even outdoor activities abound. Here are some of the best things to do in New Orleans to soak up the culture and flavors of the city. This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in New Orleans

The holiday celebrations don’t stop after New Year’s Day in New Orleans, because just five days later a whole new party begins. While the rest of the country pledges moderation, New Orleanians get to enjoy several more weeks of indulgence and revelry. Starting January 6 each year, Carnival season begins. It culminates with the celebration of Mardi Gras, and the festivities draw more than a million visitors annually. Though Carnival is celebrated differently around the world, few celebrations rival Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Carnival traditions in New Orleans—elegant balls, colorful parades, king cake, costumes—rival those of any other holiday. Houses are decked out in purple, green and gold, and those same colors become the de rigueur fashion statement for any occasion. Mardi Gras is a celebration that’s open to all—it’s even family-friendly. Here’s everything to know about Mardi Gras, including where to stay, what to eat and can’t-miss Mardi Gras events. What is Mardi Gras? While Mardi Gras is no doubt one giant party, its roots trace back to New Orleans’ French Catholic heritage. Blending Pagan and Christian customs, Mardi Gras symbolizes indulgence before the austerity of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. The term “Mardi Gras” is commonly used to refer to the entire Carnival season, but Mardi Gras (a.k.a. “Fat Tuesday”) is actually just a one day, pre-Lent party. When is Mardi Gras? Carnival season kicks off on January 6—also known as Kings’ Day, Epiphany and Twelfth Night—and

Once you’ve finally worked off Thanksgiving dinner, it’s time to look towards Christmas. The trees and garlands go up, the playlist switches to Bing Crosby and The Nutcracker and all focus turns to menu planning for the big day. Christmas dinner is a cultural event, and while dishes and ingredients may vary regionally, there is, unquestionably, a roster of iconic Christmas dishes in America that no table can be without.  RECOMMENDED: The most magical Christmas light displays in the U.S. Sure, someone in the group will bring a dish that adds a “wow” factor, or a dish that incorporates unexpected ingredients, but Americans just can’t quit dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing or pecan pie. Yes, there will be arguments, but the standards will be there, tempting you with their sweet, rich, carb-heavy deliciousness. Each of these dishes can be presented simply or gussied up, but either way they’re the most iconic Christmas dishes in America, the dishes that you can’t resist and that you love even more the next day.  RECOMMENDED: The 17 best Christmas vacations in the U.S. for a festive getaway

If Christmas dinner is the main event, dessert is the encore. It’s the sugar-fueled standing ovation that seals the deal after an indulgent holiday meal. Across America, holiday sweets are as varied as snowflakes: cookies shaped like snowmen, pies that get bolder after Thanksgiving and candies that can double as decorations.  Christmas serves as a last chance to indulge before “New Year’s Resolutions” dampen the mood, so these holiday desserts are all about spectacle. They sparkle, crumble, melt and crunch in equal measure. They remind us that the holidays are supposed to be excessive, joyful and a little bit sticky. Whether you’re the kind who bakes for a week straight or the type who “samples” frosting until the cookies vanish, this list celebrates the best of America’s holiday sugar rush. From peppermint bark to red velvet cake, here are the most iconic holiday desserts in America. RECOMMENDED: The best over-the-top holiday desserts in the U.S.

Hanukkah may be the Festival of Lights, but let’s be real: it’s also the Festival of Fried Things. Across America, Jewish families light candles, exchange gifts, and then proceed to celebrate with eight days of rich, hearty, gloriously carb-heavy foods. From crisp latkes to jelly-filled sufganiyot, each traditional Hanukkah dish speaks to resilience, heritage and the sacred joy of eating something deep-fried in the name of history. Some recipes trace back centuries; others have gone full American remix. This list honors the greatest hits of Hanukkah tables from coast to coast, the dishes that unite families and fuel arguments over whose bubbe makes it best. The most iconic Hanukkah dishes in America are the season’s most festive and most indulgent, perfect for making memories and celebrating the eight-day miracle. RECOMMENDED: The 10 best destinations in the U.S. to destress between the holidaysThe 11 most magical holiday events in the U.S. to get you feeling festive

The holidays are a time to sip mulled wine and spread cheer over hearty, comforting meals. These festive restaurants understand the assignment every year, transforming a typical dining experience into a whole holiday vibe with decorations on the walls and iconic seasonal favorites on the menus. Here are some of the most decked-out, joyful restaurants in America to visit this holiday season. If there’s ever a time to embrace over-the-top, it’s the holiday season. Across the U.S., certain restaurants don’t just decorate, they transform into full-blown winter wonderlands. At these festive holiday restaurants, entire rooms are decked with twinkling lights, ornaments dangle from ceilings, tinsel takes over, massive wreaths adorn the walls, and of course, menus boast indulgent seasonal fare. Some spots lean into kitsch while others stick to traditional displays, but all turn dining out into a holiday event.

Hello December! It's time to dive into the most wonderful time of the year. Trees and lights are going up, shops and markets are dialing up the holiday cheer and restaurants are gearing up for celebratory feasts. And speaking of feasts, if you haven't started planning your own, now is the time.  For many, cooking for a crowd on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day can be fun, a highlight of the season. But it does mean hours spent hovering over the stove, tracking timers and checking doneness all while entertaining guests. It can be exhausting, even if you're just prepping a dish or two to bring to the festivities. So why not leave the cooking to someone else? Washington, D.C., has plenty of restaurants that are open for the holidays, ready to turn an excellent meal into a celebration. From grand hotel ballrooms to warm French brasseries, restaurants are prepping their special Christmas menus. You'll find tasting menus, elaborate buffets, traditional spreads, Feast of the Seven Fishes celebrations and even take-home options so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without all the work. You can be sure these holiday offerings come with seasonal ingredients and lots of holiday flair. Whether you want something polished, cozy or over-the-top, here are the restaurants in Washington, D.C. that will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. RECOMMENDED: The 43 best restaurants in Washington, D.C. right now

Atlanta is a hub of hip-hop, soul food and Southern charm, but this city is rooted in history. There are a slew of museums in Atlanta that dive into the history of the South, the Civil Rights Movement and regional luminaries like MLK, Jr. and Jimmy Carter. But there are also museums dedicated to art, science, aviation, football and that beloved Atlanta-born beverage Coca-Cola. You can even explore the history of Waffle House and Trap music. Yes, Atlanta has many amazing museums where you can spend hours learning and having fun. Whether you’re visiting Atlanta for the amazing restaurants, cocktail scene, urban parks or attractions, don’t miss the opportunity to dig deeper and explore what makes Atlanta unique and how the city has influenced the history of the entire country. Here are the best museums in Atlanta. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Atlanta 🍴 The best restaurants in Atlanta👪 The best things to do with kids in Atlanta🏛️ The best attractions in Atlanta

What’s on your travel itinerary? For many, it’s museums, parks, architectural gems and historical tours. But plenty of travelers these days want to explore the soul of a city through its food scene. In powerhouse dining cities like New Orleans, New York and LA, eating can be the main event. Visitors arrive with bucket-list meals and strategies for efficient consumption. But under-the-radar cities and regions are spicing things up too. Gastro-tourism is on the rise as flavor hunters flock to food festivals and follow food trails, exploring the country one bite at a time. This type of traveler seeks out culture, history and hometown pride through landmark restaurants and in iconic dishes—from wonderful to weird. These aren’t flashy, Instagrammable bites that fade with the latest trends, they’re foods and culinary traditions that show what each place is all about. Every dish tells a story, and food tours are as essential as museum visits. While each of these places has enough must-eats to pack a weeks-long itinerary, consider this your jumping-off point for a trip to deliciousness (and pack your comfy shoes with your stretchy pants, because there are plenty of opportunities to walk it off and get you ready for more).

Saffron opened on Magazine Street in 2017 by popular demand, as the Vilkhu family translated years of catering experience and an in-demand weekend pop-up into one of New Orleans’ most polished Indian restaurants. Since then, the restaurant has received James Beard nominations and Michelin recognition. The buzz hasn’t subsided, and Saffron regulars are keen to share the enjoyment with first-timers. The sleek dining room is dark but glowing, with copper accents and booths that have a view of the bustling kitchen. The bar is a focal point, and it deserves attention all on its own. Inventive cocktails lean into Indian flavors without being gimmicky. Like the Saffron Old Fashioned, which swaps in mango chutney for sweetness. The tequila-based New Money features passionfruit, ginger and yogurt. The Sultan’s Sazerac brings in toasted coconut and spiced absinthe. These subtle mash-ups are just the beginning, revealing what’s to come on the menu. Chef Arvinder Vilkhu blends Indian and Louisiana culinary traditions for something completely unique. The curried seafood gumbo is the clearest example. It’s packed with local crab, Gulf shrimp and okra, and layered with a warming spice blend that feels natural rather than forced. The Oyster Bed Roast features Gulf oysters finished with curry leaves. Other standouts include the rum-marinated lamb chops, a fragrant Nariyal Gulf fish—served with korma sauce, mango pickle, crispy ginger and curd rice—and the vegetarian Hyderabadi-style roasted e

The pita alone is a draw for some frequent Saba diners. It arrives fresh and hot, straight from the wood-burning oven that anchors the dining room. Whether you tear a piece to enjoy on its own or as a vehicle for impossibly smooth hummus, the pita sets the stage for a warm, comforting meal. Chef Alon Shaya is behind this Magazine Street restaurant located Uptown. Saba serves contemporary Israeli food inspired by his family traditions. The menu leans heavily into salatim—lutenitsa, labneh, tershi and of course hummus—and an assortment can be a meal in itself. Bright, flavorful and built for sharing, these spreads are the perfect match for the pita. Hummus options include classic tahini, Tunisian tomato, blue crab and spicy lamb ragu. Small plates range from duck matzoh ball soup and falafel to burrata toast and salmon tartare. Larger plates are heartier, like the harissa roasted chicken with charred onion and caramelized lemon, Gulf red snapper with tahini and Moroccan chraime sauce and lamb chops cherry-with pecan tabbouleh, pomegranate and labneh. Seasonal entries rotate throughout. Brunch offers the opportunity to try Chef Shaya’s famous latkes. And if you have a larger group you can go for the “Feed Me” option that features all the hits, eliminating the need to make a decision. The drinks menu is equally fresh and creative. A selection of seasonal gazoz, like pomegranate sage with vodka or burnt orange with white rum and brûléed citrus make for a bubbly start. Cocktails ar

If you’ve been waiting for a new spot to test your skating skills, Rosemont Village has your winter plans covered. The spectacular new 103,000-square-foot facility, located just north of Allstate Arena, features two full-size rinks—one for the pros and one for the rest of us. Youth hockey teams, figure skating clubs, adult leagues and the Chicago Mission girls’ hockey program all find a home here.

If you’ve ever wanted to live inside a Mariah Carey Christmas special, this is your moment. For the first time ever, Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar is landing in Miami Beach, promising a “Mariahfied cocktail experience” that’s part pop-up, part wonderland and entirely extra (in the best possible way). Launching on November 20 at Ray’s Hometown Bar, expect wall-to-wall holiday décor dripping with glitter and nostalgia, festive photo ops (including a new “Queen of Christmas” homage and Santa’s Sleigh setup) and recreated backdrops from her most iconic album covers. Every 30 minutes, the unmistakable opening notes of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” will cue the room into collective holiday euphoria. The menu keeps the theme alive with festive small bites and seasonal cocktails made with Carey’s own Black Irish cream liqueur. For fans who want to take the experience home, there’s exclusive merch, vinyl copies of her holiday albums and even her newest LP, Here For It All. You can even write to the star herself at the “Letters to Mariah” station. Tickets will be available exclusively through Bucket Listers, and Miami fans can join the waitlist now for early access once reservations open. 

This lively Warehouse District favorite transforms the catch of the day into something both primal and unforgettable. The secret weapon? A massive wood-burning grill that adds a signature smoky depth to everything it touches. Whether it’s a whole fish with perfectly crisped skin, a hanger steak brightened by salsa verde, the addictive smoked tuna dip or simple sides like roasted pumpkin and grilled zucchini, fire is the common thread. Still, even the dishes that skip the grill hit just as hard. The menu changes often, but always reflects the vision of Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski and the skill of Chef de Cuisine (and James Beard semi-finalist) Nicole Mills. The raw bar highlights Gulf shrimp, local oysters and other regional gems. Longtime snacks and shareables like the smoked tuna dip, fried bread and beer-battered fish sticks (made with local brew Urban South) have earned permanent spots. The rest of the lineup leans seafood-forward, inspired by the cooking of South America, Spain and the Gulf Coast. Creative, seasonal plates like baked drum with coconut and sticky rice and jumbo shrimp with purple rice pilaf make an appearance along non-seafood selections like grilled chicken paired with brown rice congee.Everything at Pêche feels designed to be passed around the table, family-style—fitting for the always boisterous atmosphere. The lively, come-as-you-are energy extends to the bar, where seasonal cocktails show off local ingredients. Recent standouts include th

Bourbon Street is hardly the first place you’d expect to find an outpost of high-end hospitality, but The Royal Sonesta is perched proudly, right in the thick of the French Quarter’s nightlife strip.  This landmark hotel, which opened in 1969, knows how to party, but also knows when to call it a night. The façade fits right in, with wrought-iron balconies, gas lamps and flowers tumbling from railings, but behind the gates is a leafy courtyard with a pool that feels like it belongs to another world entirely. It’s a bit like New Orleans itself: chaos outside, charm inside. The Sonesta is a place where you can dive right in then retreat whenever you need a break. It’s a prime spot for visitors, but the restaurants, jazz club and on-site events draw just as many locals. If you’re staying here, get ready for a good time, both outside and inside. Why stay at the Royal Sonesta? Plenty of hotels claim to give you the ‘real’ New Orleans experience, but few put you right in the middle of it with such style. The Royal Sonesta leans into its Bourbon Street address with flair, while also serving as an oasis of polished marble, glittering chandeliers and a cool hush that dissolves the commotion outside. There’s no shade thrown towards the nightly revelry of tourists, and in fact one of the hotel’s most beloved annual traditions turns a typical nuisance—drunken revelers climbing the balconies during Carnival—into a party and competition with the annual Greasing of the Poles on the Friday be

The Warehouse District in New Orleans is often referred to as being trendy, with art galleries, hot restaurants, cocktail bars and cool lofts, so it makes sense that the Virgin Hotel is located here.  It’s a striking addition to an already buzzy neighborhood, but with its own scene that makes it a destination in its own right—including for locals. On any given day you’ll find live music, a rooftop pool party, a DJ or a drag brunch. Combine all that swanky entertainment with a good dose of style, playful design and (of course) comfort, and you’ve got a stay that’s as fun as the city itself. Why stay at the Virgin Hotel? When it debuted in 2021, Virgin Hotels New Orleans quickly cemented itself as one of the city’s most stylish stays. It strikes a balance between high-energy and laid-back, giving guests an experience that’s beyond the usual, and while you’ll no doubt spend your time seeing the sights, hearing live music and indulging in the incredible dining scene—this is New Orleans, after all—the Virgin keeps the party going once you come back. The bold design features local artists and gives a nod to both the city’s musical heritage and its flair for spectacle. The atmosphere feels less like a hotel and more like an insider’s clubhouse, and it’s where you stay if you want to experience New Orleans with a bit of polish but without losing the playful spirit that makes the Crescent City unique. What are the rooms like? Virgin Hotels calls its guest rooms ‘chambers’, and it’s ea

Since opening in 1893, this grande dame of New Orleans hotels has hosted everybody from politicians, royalty and movie stars and musicians. Now a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the property balances historic grandeur with modern comfort, offering guests a blend of opulence and ease that feels distinctly New Orleans.  The soaring lobby wows with gilded columns, glittering chandeliers and a sense of occasion, and locals regularly pass through the lobby when attending events at the nearby Saenger or Orpheum Theaters, stopping to have a drink at the famed Sazerac Bar or to reminisce about times spent in the hotel’s ballrooms and restaurants. The Roosevelt has also been a top holiday destination for generations, as the lobby is decked out each year in extravagant decorations to celebrate the season. It offers an indulgent stay in close proximity to the French Quarter, but even more than that it provides a chance to experience New Orleans through one of its most storied institutions. Why stay at The Roosevelt Hotel? The Roosevelt is a standout among typical chain hotels. It’s unique and historic, and the vibe is equal parts timeless glamour and laid-back Southern charm. The grand chandeliers, marbled floors and polished brass mingle with the hum of guests and curious visitors. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—you’re a short walk from the French Quarter, yet far enough away to retreat from the hubbub. With its lengthy history and luxurious trappings, The Roosevelt is where tradition meets ind

When you arrive at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, you really arrive. It’s set on a quiet stretch of coast on the Island of Hawaii (also known as the Big Island), and the seclusion offers the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a sense of place and tradition that goes back generations. While the location makes it possible to explore nearby highlights—Kailua-Kona town, coffee farms, historical sites, Mauna Kea—it’s remote enough that you feel like you’re stepping into a private retreat, and you won’t want to leave. It offers modern comforts alongside experiences and amenities that seamlessly incorporate customs, honoring the surrounding environment. Why stay at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort? Kona Village is relatively new, having opened in 2023, but the property’s history goes back decades and continues to be a part of local lore. Even further back? This is sacred ground, once home to Polynesian settlers who lived off the land in a thriving community. Originally opened in the 1960s by Johnno and Helen Jackson, Kona Village came to life when the couple landed their schooner New Moon at the site of the abandoned village of Kaʻūpūlehu. The Polynesian-style resort became an off‑the‑grid hot spot with no TVs, few roads and just a coconut on your door to signal ‘privacy’. Guests flew in via puddle‑jumper planes, and families returned year after year. It was a communal resort, where guests of all ages mixed and mingled, like a Hawaiian summer camp.  In 2011, a tsunami demolis

South Beach isn’t exactly known for subtlety. Neon lights, bass-heavy clubs and velvet-rope chaos are par for the course along Ocean Drive. But tucked right into the heart of the action—without feeling like it’s part of the scene—is The Betsy, a refined, art-forward boutique hotel with a whole lot of class but just enough edge to keep it rooted in the neighborhood. Built in 1942, The Betsy is one of the last remaining examples of Florida-Georgian architecture in the area, standing in bold contrast to the candy-colored Art Deco buildings surrounding it. It could easily be mistaken for Savannah, but this genteel charm is exactly the draw if you want to be part of the South Beach energy while easily being able to retreat from it. Inside is a spacious world of art and relaxation, a perfect respite from the Ocean Drive action. Why stay at The Betsy Hotel? If you’re over the South Beach party scene—but not quite ready to retire from it—The Betsy strikes a near-perfect balance. At the quieter end of Ocean Drive, The Betsy is just steps from the sand and close to the action, but removed enough to breathe. You get all the perks of the location, but inside, it’s calm, collected and downright serene. You can spend hours inside browsing the art collection, unwinding at the pools, sipping an espresso or lounging in the library and other public spaces. There’s a renowned jazz program in the bar, a destination restaurant and a cool courtyard oasis. But once you’re ready to live it up in SoB

Step off Magazine Street and into The Vintage, where velvet banquettes, antique mirrors and mismatched chandeliers pull you into a curated mix of Parisian café meets New Orleans charm.  The vibe: This chic spot is an ideal stop any time of day. During work hours, laptops and lattes rule; by night, it’s candles, charcuterie and clinking glasses. It’s elegant but laid-back, welcoming all to enjoy the atmosphere. Grab a table inside (an excellent backdrop for pics) or choose a sidewalk table where you can catch the Magazine Street buzz. The food: From coffee and pastries in the morning to sandwiches, flatbreads and small plates later in the day, The Vintage is truly an all-day cafe. Don’t miss the beignets, whether it’s an order of traditional plain or fancy versions filled with chocolate, mini beignets topped with cinnamon or seasonal options that celebrate Mardi Gras, Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Cheese boards and charcuterie plates are perfect for late-night bites with friends. The drink: Coffee is the star for the morning crowd; cold brew, lattes, cappuccinos or a simple cup are all made with lovingly-sourced beans. Later, opt for Champagne, rosé, adult coffee concoctions, unique cocktails, beers and mocktails.  Time Out tip: The Bubbles and Bites happy hour from 3-6pm is an excellent time to unwind with a glass of sparkling and a cheese board or perhaps a beignet flight.

Founded in 1983 by the late Loretta Harrison—the city’s first African-American woman to own and run a praline company—this Marigny sweet shop sells classic New Orleans pralines, pies, cookies and creative beignets, both sweet and savory. The vibe: The shop is small, bright, charming and unfussy. There are a few tables scattered around and a neon sign that welcomes you in. Friendly staff will treat you like neighbors, creating the perfect vibe for satisfying your sweet tooth. The food: The pralines are the headliners, of course. They’re chewy, nutty and rich with brown sugar. But don’t miss the stuffed beignets. Get one stuffed with praline, peanut butter and jelly, crab, shrimp, burger or fried chicken. The stuffed beignets are a favorite offering at Jazz Fest every year and won top prize at the inaugural Beignet Festival back in 2016. The drink: Pair your sweets with a fresh-brewed coffee, iced or hot, or grab a cold drink from the cooler. Time Out tip: Keep an eye out for special seasonal pralines, like pumpkin spice in the fall or rum-flavored around Mardi Gras. 

Americans are being warned against travel to a popular Mediterranean vacation destination. The U.S. Department of State has raised its travel advisory for Cyprus to Level 3, urging U.S. citizens to reconsider travel as tensions linked to the expanding U.S.-Iran conflict ripple across the region. The updated advisory, issued on March 3, follows a drone strike that hit a building on a British sovereign base area on the island on March 2. The incident comes days after hostilities between the United States and Iran began on February 28, an escalation that has already disrupted commercial flights across parts of the eastern Mediterranean. In response to the security environment, the State Department has authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to depart Cyprus. Officials said the advisory level was raised primarily because of changes to embassy operations, rather than a direct shift in risk factors for travelers. Still, the warning reflects growing concern about instability in the region. Cyprus sits in a strategic location in the eastern Mediterranean, just across the water from Lebanon, which currently carries the State Department’s highest Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory. Meanwhile, European allies including France, Greece and the United Kingdom have increased defensive deployments around the island. Travelers who still plan to visit Cyprus are being advised to enter or depart through major gateways including Larnaka International Airport and

Chef Gabriel Kreuther is showing a more relaxed side to his cooking to Hudson Yards. His new restaurant, Saverne, has just opened on the ground floor of The Spiral and, while the name may nod to a small town in France’s Alsace region, the vibe here is firmly modern New York. Kreuther, the chef behind the acclaimed two-Michelin-starred Gabriel Kreuther near Bryant Park, built his reputation on refined French cooking. Saverne keeps the same attention to detail but trades the formality for something warmer and more approachable. This is a modern, wood-fired brasserie with an open kitchen and a menu that's both rustic and elegant. The restaurant takes its name from the historic Alsatian town at the base of the Vosges mountains where the region’s hearty food traditions run deep. Those roots show up across the menu, filtered through Kreuther’s precise technique and his long fascination with cooking over fire. Here, applewood, oak and cherry logs fuel the ovens and grills, giving meats seafood, and vegetables a smoky depth that modern equipment can’t quite replicate. Photograph: Francesco Sapienza Inside the 5,000 square foot space, the open kitchen anchors the room, with flames and embers fully visible from the dining area. It sets the tone for a place built around craft and simplicity. Executive chef Andy Choi runs the kitchen day to day alongside Kreuther, while pastry chef Nicolas Chevrieux handles desserts. The menu is a journey through Alsace with some playful twists. Starte

TSA is constantly reminding us to pay attention when packing, posting lists of prohibited items, security requirements and more. You'd think that would mean most people's suitcases contain fairly normal items like socks and acceptable toiletries. But as it turns out, many travelers are packing some seriously strange stuff. Every year, Unclaimed Baggage—the Scottsboro, Alabama retailer that sells items from lost airline luggage—releases its “Found Report,” a roundup of the most interesting things discovered inside bags that never made it home. The latest edition offers a peek into the weird, wonderful and occasionally very expensive things people flew with in 2025. Lost luggage is rarer than you might think. Nearly 10 billion passengers flew globally last year, with about 27 million people taking to the skies every single day. More than 99.9 percent of checked bags make it back to their destination. But the few that don’t eventually end up in Scottsboro, after airlines spend 90 days trying to reunite them with their owners. And that’s where things get interesting. Among the standout discoveries this year was a suitcase packed entirely with rat poison. No clothes, no toiletries, just poison. Slightly more charming, but equally puzzling, was a set of fake human bones. Other eyebrow-raising finds included a full beekeeper suit, a fragment of meteorite and even a fully assembled robot. Then there were the items that made the security line feel a little more glamorous. Staff uncove

One of Illinois’ most beloved outdoor destinations is getting a major refresh, and improvements continue as we begin to emerge from hibernation and start to head outdoors. Starved Rock State Park, the state’s most visited park, is undergoing an $18 million trail improvement project designed to make hiking safer and help preserve the landscape for years to come. Located about 100 miles southwest of Chicago, Starved Rock is home to towering sandstone bluffs rising above the Illinois River and forested trails winding through canyons carved by glacial meltwater more than 14,000 years ago. Established in 1911 as Illinois’ second state park, the site is known for its 18 dramatic canyons, seasonal waterfalls and sweeping river views. The park’s popularity has taken a toll on its infrastructure, however. Over time, heavy foot traffic and harsh Midwest weather have worn down many of the timber bridges, stairways, boardwalks and retaining walls that guide visitors through the rugged terrain. To address that, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources launched a large-scale trail rehabilitation effort in late 2025 that will continue through most of 2026. The goal is to repair aging structures, reopen previously closed trails and make the park safer and easier to explore. Construction is being staggered so that only certain areas are closed at a time. Currently, several routes are temporarily off limits while crews work, including the Brown Bluff Trail above French Canyon, Tonti Canyon

If you’re doing New York City right, you’re doing a lot. Long days taking in amazing museums, attractions and galleries plus, of course, shopping, drinking and dining. It’s thrilling, but it can be exhausting. And when you finally crash, where you stay matters. Fortunately, Time Out editors have ranked NYC's top hotels, and The Fifth Avenue Hotel is officially the best spot in the city. Housed in a 19th-century mansion in NoMad, this boutique stunner is a glamorous fever dream. The design, by Martin Brudnizki, pulls from global travels and French romanticism, layering richly toned colors, ornate details and unexpected textures. There are silky pleated corridor walls, palm-filled parlors and hidden reading nooks providing a perfect spot to relax and reflect. Rooms range from polished queen hideaways to sprawling signature suites. Even entry-level options feel indulgent, with plush bedding and Dyson hair dryers. The suites offer generous living areas and proper dressing tables. High-tech touches keep everything seamless, from in-room tablets that control lighting and temperature to a 24/7 butler service. There’s a welcome drink when you arrive and a nightly martini hour, with a perfectly shaken cocktail delivered straight to your door. At Café Carmellini, the in-house restaurant, chef Andrew Carmellini blends European technique with New York edge in a dining room that hums from breakfast through late night. The Portrait Bar, open to guests only during the day but to the public

Unless you're a last-minute, free-wheeling type, a lot goes into planning a major road trip along an iconic U.S. route like Route 66, the Great Northern or the Atlantic Coast Highway. Fortunately, The Dyrt, the camping app built by the largest RVing and camping community in the country, just dropped a set of comprehensive guides to iconic U.S. road trip routes, and pinpointed the best places to camp along each route. The Road Trip Collection covers seven of America’s most quintessential long-haul drives. Each guide includes a short history of the route, key facts, the best time of year to go and a realistic trip length that actually leaves room for hikes, diners and scenic detours. Most importantly, every guide names the top ten best places to camp along the way, as determined by the dedicated reviewers using the app. Here's a brief overview. The Atlantic Coast Highway runs 1,500 miles from Cape May to Key West, trading I-95 traffic for ocean views. It threads through eight states, linking barrier islands, historic seaside towns and national seashores. The standout campsite is Assateague State Park Campground. Pitch your tent on the sand and you might wake up to wild ponies grazing near the dunes. There are modern bathhouses, easy beach access and steady sea breezes. For a true coast-to-coast adventure, the Great Northern stretches more than 3,200 miles from Bar Harbor to Seattle, tracing much of U.S. Highway 2 near the Canadian border. It’s quieter than southern interstates,

Heads up: NYC's next lookalike contest is going to be a big one. We've celebrated our favorite heartthrobs and movie stars with lookalike contests honoring Timothée Chalamet, Pedro Pascal and Heated Rivalry, and, now it's time for the city to crown its very own Benito. On Saturday, March 14 at 2pm, 7th Street Burger is teaming up with Bronx Native to host a Bad Bunny lookalike contest at the Bronx burger joint with a serious cash prize. So if you resemble Bad Bunny, even a little, show up with your best looks. The winner walks away with $500 in cash, which in this town translates to a solid night out and then some. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bronx Native (@thebronxnative) What counts as a resemblance is up for interpretation. Maybe you’ve got the curly hair and the perfectly groomed stubble. Maybe it’s the oversized fits, the confident slouch or the sunglasses worn indoors like there's no other option. Maybe others think you look like the pop star, or maybe you just embody his unbeatable vibe. But even if you're the complete opposite of the Puerto Rican icon, you'll want to roll up and show up early. The first 50 attendees will score a free burger, and we all know 7th Street Burger does it right with smash-style, crispy-edged patties on soft potato buns. You'll want some serious fuel while judging the throngs of strong jawlines and smoldering gazes. You can expect this contest to be over the top. The Bronx doesn’t do low-key, and when it come

Spring is almost here, and JetBlue has a sale that offers all the inspiration you need for a post-winter trip, but you'll have to act fast to get the best deals. The airline has launched its “Spring Ahead” sale, and fares start at a very tempting $79 one way. But you have to book by Thursday, March 5. A few details: the travel window runs April 14 through June 10, which means spring break escapes and early summer warm-ups are all in play. Just note the blackout dates from May 21 to May 26. Outside of that, it’s open season. The sale covers routes across the U.S., plus sunny favorites in Mexico, Costa Rica and even select European cities. Whether you’re craving a beach, rainforest or cobblestone streets, there’s something worth a look. Here are a few fares that caught our eye: New York City (LGA) to West Palm Beach from $79 Boston to Barcelona from $249 Fort Lauderdale to Liberia from $109 Orlando to Cancún from $129 New York City (JFK) to San José, Costa Rica (SJO) from $138 You read that right, Boston travelers, that’s a flight to Europe for less than $250 one way. And New Yorkers can escape to sunny Florida for less than the cost of a dinner out. As always with flash sales like these, prices are subject to availability and the cheapest seats tend to disappear first. If you have flexible dates, you’ll have a better shot at scoring the lowest fare. Midweek departures are often your best bets, so take the time to browse accordingly. JetBlue knows that now is the time to shak

Looking for a fresh set of Harry Styles merch before the pop star's big residency in NYC? You're in luck. A Harry Styles pop-up shop is landing in the city this weekend, so get ready to shop 'til you drop and find the perfect piece to let him know you're his biggest fan. After a three-year hiatus, Styles is officially back with his new album Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally and kicking off his hot "Together, Together" tour starting in mid-May. To show fans love in advance of the tour, sixteen exclusive pop-up shops are opening around the world. One of them is right here in NYC. The announcement came via a cryptic Instagram post from Harry Styles HQ on Sunday, March 1: “KATTDO Pop-Ups. Opening March 6. Details to come.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Harry Styles HQ (@hshq) Today we got those details. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Harry Styles HQ (@hshq) On Friday, March 6—the day of the album drop—the KATTDO pop-up shop will open at 106 North 6th Street in Williamsburg at midnight. That's right, midnight. Night owls can stay up to get first dibs until 2am. The shop will reopen later in the morning and will run through March 12. What exactly will be inside the New York shop is still under wraps, but fans can likely count on fresh merch tied to the new album. Vinyl and even branded cameras are already up for pre-order online, so don’t be surprised if they’re stacked behind the counter. There’s also buzz about

If you're a fried chicken fiend, make a plan to hit up Coral Gables next week. On Wednesday, March 11, Fuku opens at 135 Miracle Mile, marking the first standalone South Florida location for the cult-favorite fried chicken concept from chef David Chang. If the name sounds familiar, it should. Fuku started as a secret off-menu sando at Momofuku Noodle Bar in NYC. Word spread fast, and this secret-but-not-for-long order turned into a full-fledged brand with 15 outposts in stadiums and arenas across the country. It's finally coming to South Florida, with this new location in Coral Gables and another slated to open in West Palm Beach this summer. So what can you expect at the highly-anticipated new spot? At the center of the tight, focused menu are the fried chicken sandos, each breaded in-house and served on a butter-toasted potato roll. There’s the OG with pickles and Fuku mayo, the Sweet & Spicy glazed with signature sauce and topped with pickled daikon and a Miso Ranch and Slaw version that's savory and sharp. Prices range between $10 and $12, a pretty good deal for chef-driven fried chicken on Miracle Mile. You don't have to get a sandwich to try the goods, however. Go for the tenders, and add waffle fries or Party Fries loaded with sauces and scallions. There’s also chicken garlic rice, crunchy slaw and cucumber salad if you need something green to balance it out. For dessert, snag cookies from Milk Bar (from a David Chang protege) and a collaboration with Coconut Grove’s F

If you think your morning commute could use a little more noise and disruption, good news! The MTA has officially kicked off a pilot program that will pipe 30-second audio ads into select subway and commuter rail stations every 10 minutes. That's right, every 10 minutes. Because clearly what you need on your way to work is a loud commercial break. The MTA hopes that these ads will generate income to keep the system running. The spots will be capped at 75 decibels, roughly the volume of a loud conversation, a vacuum or heavy traffic. In other words, quite pleasant! This will definitely improve the soundscape of the stations where riders already struggle to understand service announcements. So what kinds of ads can we expect to enjoy? For now, the pilot is limited to entertainment and sports, like ads for upcoming movies and TV shows, concerts and live events and video games. Only one advertiser will take over a station per day, so you'll hear the same thing again and again depending on how long you're waiting for your train. What we don’t know yet is where these ads will play. The MTA has not released a public list of participating stations, so you'll just have to be surprised if you hear one. The test run is scheduled to continue through June 1, 2026. The agency says rider feedback will determine whether the program sticks around. The reaction, so far, is to be expected. Commenters ran wild on a local Instagram post, with one commenter summing up the collective response: "Sav

New York weather continues to keep us on our toes. We’re starting this week with a reminder that winter isn't over just yet. Feel-like temperatures are stuck in the single digits across much of the tri-state area and, yes, there’s more snow in the forecast. A quick burst is expected Tuesday afternoon before turning to rain by evening. Don’t let the flakes fool you, though. While spring may still be a couple weeks away, a warmup is coming. You may have seen posts on social media celebrating the arrival of 70 degree weather this weekend, but don't break out your flip flops just yet. The actual forecasts are a little more restrained, though positive. Forecasters at NBC 4 New York say temperatures will climb steadily through the back half of this week. By the weekend, we’re looking at highs in the upper 50s. That alone feels like a small miracle after the 2026 blizzard, weeks of freezing temperatures and so much lingering snow. AccuWeather is taking things a little further, calling for highs in the upper 60s by Sunday due to a northward bulge in the jet stream bringing springlike warmth up and down the east coast. Other forecasts suggest that Monday and Tuesday could both clear 60 degrees. This is welcome news of course, but this isn’t a full seasonal reset. It’s more like a preview, what we've come to know as "spring one." Spring officially arrives on Friday, March 20, and forecasts can always shift. But after months of brutal cold, even a few 60-degree days feel like a turning