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).

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

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

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

This New Orleans legend has been serving hot beignets and chicory coffee since 1862. You’ll find the iconic original spot on Decatur Street in the French Quarter, open 24/7. There's also a breezier outpost in City Park where you can enjoy your beignets under centuries-old oak trees. Café du Monde is known around the world, and while tourists flock to the green and white awning, locals are equally enamored.  The vibe: The French Quarter location is chaotic in the best way. The open-air patio is lively and buzzing with activity at all hours, as servers in white shirts and black bow ties flit from table to table. Car and foot traffic flows by on Decatur Street, and there’s usually a street performer or two entertaining from the sidewalk.  The food: Café du Monde is about beignets and beignets only. An order of three with a mountain of powdered sugar is all you need. They’re crispy on the outside, pillowy on the inside. If you’re not covered in powdered sugar by the time you’re done, you’re not doing it right. Just don’t wear black. The drink: Order a café au lait made with their signature dark-roast coffee and chicory. It’s the classic accompaniment, available iced for those hot summer days. Time Out tip: You’ll get the full experience by sitting at a table, but you can also head to the takeout window for a to-go order. Head across the street to the river to enjoy while watching the ships go by. Be sure to take a peek around the side of the building where you can watch the beign

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.

You may have heard about Guillotine Bakery, the highly-anticipated Parisian-style bakery currently under construction in West Town. While it's not set to open until the spring, it's garnering a lot of buzz and, now, it's offering a first-taste preview of its delectable baked goods just in time for Valentine's Day. Guillotine is the project of French baker Vincent Didry, alongside Alizé Bikard and head baker Vince Le Bec. Together, they’re aiming to bring classic French technique to Chicago without the preciousness that sometimes comes with it. Think elegance with a wink. Or, as the name suggests, tradition with an edge. Before the doors officially open, Guillotine is inviting Chicagoans to mark Valentine’s Day the French way with a limited preorder bundle available for pickup on the morning of the big day. For $95, you can snag a box of two pastries created by the Guillotine team, paired with a striking floral arrangement by florist Agathe of 5pm lab. Pickup takes place at Guillotine’s forthcoming brick-and-mortar location at 1711 West Chicago Avenue, so you can also get a sneak peek of the space before it becomes a full-fledged neighborhood bakery. When Guillotine opens later this year, the menu will include breads, pastries, coffee and sandwiches, all made with imported French flour and butter. Didry’s goal is fidelity to flavor, making sure the soul of French baking survives the trip across the Atlantic. The team also envisions the bakery as a gathering place, one that ref

Super Bowl weekend is about football, of course, but when it’s held in a destination like the Bay Area, food is going to be a big part of the draw. Visitors will be hunting down the best local eats, filling up with local flavors before the excitement of the big game. The Super Bowl is a chance to showcase a city’s top eats. High-rollers hit up the best of the best, while others seek out hidden gems and newcomers. San Francisco was buzzing with immersive activations for fans over the weekend, and some events made a point of promoting local Bay Area restaurants that deserve attention and deliver on flavor. With limited time and limited stomach capacity, these events offered the chance to sample a slew of top dishes from amazing local restaurants all in one go. Here’s how it went. Photograph: Gerrish Lopez for Time Out RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in San Francisco Pepsi’s Bay Area Local Eats festival, part of the NFL Fan Zone experience, centered on regional restaurants. The food-focused activation in Yerba Buena Gardens featured Bay Area restaurants serving up some of their star dishes. It was part of their Local Eats Deserve Pepsi program, designed to build support for diverse, independent eateries. The platform has supported more than 75,000 local restaurants nationwide since its launch, and this was the Bay Area’s time to shine.  Pepsi even had some real star power behind the event, as Martha Stewart herself was involved, making an appearance to sample all the goods.

When it comes to laughs, some cities are funnier than others. New research from online ticketing platform TicketSource has officially named Boston the funniest city in the U.S. The honor is the result of their study that ranked cities by comedy club density, comedy-related search demand, upcoming ticketed comedy events and the number of notable comedians each city has produced. Boston, apparently, is where Americans are laughing the loudest right now. Boston tops the list with a comedy score of 8.17 out of 10, outperforming the study average across almost every category. The city racks up more than 206,000 comedy-related searches, well above the average of 131,200, and boasts 12 comedy venues per 100,000 people. That's nearly double what most cities offer. Crucially, Boston balances demand with access. Venues like The Wilbur, Laugh Boston and Improv Asylum have fresh lineups each week, so comedy is always at the forefront of the entertainment scene. Photograph: Courtesy TicketSource Washington, D.C., lands in second place with a score of 7.69. Its venue count sits closer to the norm at eight per 100,000 people, but interest runs high. The city logs nearly 190,000 comedy-related searches and is home to 25 notable comedians, slightly above the study average of just under 23. Alumni like Dave Chappelle and Stephen Colbert loom large, helping cement D.C.’s reputation as a serious proving ground for stand-ups. Third place is a tie between San Francisco and Atlanta, both scoring

SKIMS has officially landed in Chicago: a new flagship store for Kim Kardashian's shapewear brand just opened in the Gold Coast. Taking over a former 1960s bank on a corner of Rush Street, the new store is a sleek, sculptural retail space that's both very SKIMS and very Chicago. The 6,500-square-foot store marks the brand’s first flagship in the city, the latest move in an ambitious global retail rollout. It follows openings in Los Angeles and New York and precedes international expansions across Mexico and Dubai. The new store carries the full range of women’s and men’s SKIMS staples, from loungewear and underwear to shapewear and bras. Fan-favorite collections like fits everybody, cotton, seamless sculpt and ultimate bras are all here, along with new seasonal drops. The company said the store will also feature Chicago-only exclusive merchandise and limited-edition styles like NikeSKIMS throughout the year. The design of the store is worth a look on its own, starting with a stunning view from the street. A reclining sculpture by artist Vanessa Beecroft can bee seen through the glass façade. The space was designed by Rafael de Cárdenas, Ltd., who utilized the bank building's existing features to create a dramatic look with curved staircase and a sweeping illuminated ceiling that puts all the focus on the SKIMS displays. “Chicago boasts such incredible style and a vibrant community, and opening our first flagship here feels incredibly meaningful,” said Kim Kardashian, co-found

Airports aren’t usually where we imagine meeting the love of our life. They’re loud and stressful, full of people rushing around or just staring at their phones. But according to new research from AirAdvisor, some airports are actually set up in such a way that delays and layovers can lead to real human connection. Ahead of Valentine’s Day, AirAdvisor ranked 24 major airports using a “love connection score”—measuring everything from passenger volume and international diversity to how long travelers linger in shared spaces—to determine which are the best for finding love.  Globally, Istanbul Airport topped the list, thanks to its massive international traffic and social layout. Seoul’s Incheon followed, praised for comfort and design that encourages hanging out rather than rushing through. London Heathrow rounded out the top three, buoyed by long layovers and one of the most socially active cities in the world. But two U.S. airports also cracked the top ten, and both make a strong case for romance on the concourse. New York’s JFK landed at number five. With around 55 million passengers a year and a high share of transfer travelers, JFK creates the kind of conditions where you notice the same stranger twice. Seeing someone again at a bar, food court or security line makes things less awkward if you decide to say hello. JFK’s spread of restaurants, bars and shared seating helps, but the real advantage is what waits beyond baggage claim. New York consistently ranks as one of the

If you’re dragging a little today after a long night of Super Bowl highs, lows, Bad Bunny memes and snacks, Starbucks has just the thing. The chain is giving away free coffee today, February 9. It's a welcome perk on a hazy Monday morning, a direct result of the Seahawks winning last night's Super Bowl—after all, Starbucks is a Seattle-based company. This morning, the chain posted a social video celebrating the Seahawks’ 29–13 win over the Patriots with the caption “the only thing Seattle lost was sleep.” How good? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Starbucks (@starbucks) Here’s how it works. Starbucks Rewards members can get a free 12-ounce hot or iced coffee with the purchase of any qualifying beverage of equal or greater value. Ready-to-drink options and alcohol are excluded, and the deal is limited to one per customer. You can find the offer in the Starbucks app, so you’ll want that downloaded before your coffee run. The free coffee comes in a special-edition paper cup, too. Starbucks is rolling out a green throwback cup wrapped in the brand’s original logo, a nod to its Seattle roots. It's also debuting a new 1971 Roast, named for the year the company opened its very first store in Pike Place Market. According to Starbucks, the new coffee is bold and complex but finishes smooth and velvety. Coffee developer Sergio Alvarez, who started as a part-time barista at the original Pike Place store, calls it “the best of two worlds.” The free coffee deal

After seven extravagant years, Broadway is getting ready to say au revoir to Moulin Rouge! The Musical. The Tony-winning adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 film will play its final performance at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on July 26, closing one of the most commercially successful and visually maximalist runs of the modern Broadway era. Moulin Rouge! officially opened on July 25, 2019, dripping in red velvet, rhinestones and pop culture mashups. During its first year, the musical regularly grossed over $2 million a week and went on to become the highest-grossing production in the Hirschfeld Theatre’s 100-year history. By closing, Moulin Rouge! will have played 2,265 regular performances and 24 previews, making it the 36th longest-running show in Broadway history. Capitalized at around $28 million, it officially recouped its investment in late 2022. It was the only musical from the disrupted 2019–2020 season to do so and the only show from that season still running until now. The production made its mark artistically too. Directed by Alex Timbers, with a book by John Logan and choreography by Sonya Tayeh, Moulin Rouge! won 10 Tony Awards in 2021, including Best Musical. Justin Levine’s music supervision stitched together a chaotic and entirely memorable soundtrack that spans decades. The show also became a symbol of Broadway’s resilience. After shutting down during the pandemic, Moulin Rouge! was among the first productions to welcome audiences back in 2021, its can-can defianc

Was that a NYC ferry on the water yesterday? You may have seen a boat or two out on the Hudson, but don't get too excited just yet. Service across all ferry routes is still suspended, extending a disruption that’s now lasted more than a week. The pause began last week after icy conditions spread across New York Harbor, the East River and the Hudson. According to multiple service alerts from NYC Ferry, “significant, continuing ice build-up” has made it unsafe to operate vessels. Heavy ice forces ferries to slow down and creates unpredictable conditions at landings, which can put passengers, crews and boats at risk. Crews have been out testing docks and routes, however, checking ice conditions landing by landing. Those test runs, combined with weather forecasting and constant monitoring of ice movement, are helping the agency figure out when service can safely return. Slightly warmer temperatures earlier this week helped break up parts of the ice. But large ice floes are still drifting through the harbor and colder weather paired with strong winds is expected to keep conditions difficult. For that reason, NYC Ferry confirmed on Wednesday that service will remain suspended through the weekend. Safety, officials emphasized, is the priority. An email from NYC Ferry indicated there is some cautious optimism ahead. Forecasts show temperatures climbing above freezing by the middle of next week. If that trend holds and ice continues to clear, officials expect to begin a gradual return

Miami is many things, but “colder than Alaska” is not supposed to be one of them. And yet, early Sunday morning, that’s exactly what happened. Just before 7am, Miami International Airport dipped to 35 degrees, breaking a record that had stood since 1909. At the same time, Kodiak, Alaska clocked in at a balmy 39. But Sunday’s chill was not a one-and-done. On Monday, Miami International Airport was down to 38 degrees. Broward County broke a record at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport with 36 degrees, beating marks set in 1942 and 1979. Palm Beach International Airport went even further, “shattering” its previous record with a low of 30 degrees, a record dating back to 1912. South Florida woke up to biting wind chills, and snow flurries were even spotted near Naples. And obviously it was cold enough for the state’s most infamous invasive species to start falling out of trees. According to the National Weather Service in Miami, a strong Arctic high-pressure system pushed frigid air deep into the peninsula, overwhelming the usual coastal warmth. At 11am Monday, cold-related alerts covered much of the state: freeze warnings in 30 counties, cold weather advisories in seven and a frost advisory tossed in for good measure. So, when will the cold snap end? Not yet. Temperatures will be closer to normal today, but another cold front is expected to move through tonight into Thursday, bringing rain and another drop in temperatures. Forecasters say it likely won’t hit the ext

Booking.com just released its 2026 Traveler Review Awards, including honors for the most hospitable cities in the world. In a year when travelers say friendliness matters almost as much as price or scenery, one small Texas town has impressed global travelers and topped the list of the most hospitable cities in the U.S. Booking.com analyzed more than 370 million verified reviews to determine the world's best cities for traveler hospitality. The list celebrates destinations where local accommodation partners consistently deliver standout service and genuinely warm welcomes. And among global heavyweights from Italy to Australia, only one U.S. city made the cut: Fredericksburg, Texas. Topping the global ranking is Montepulciano, Italy, followed by Magong, Taiwan; San Martín de los Andes, Argentina; and Harrogate in the United Kingdom. Fredericksburg lands at an impressive number five, ahead of destinations in Brazil, Namibia, Japan, Australia and Lithuania. For a Hill Country town with a population just north of 11,000, it’s quite an achievement. Set among rolling vineyards and peach orchards, Fredericksburg has long been known for its easygoing charm. Founded in 1846 by German settlers, the town still wears its heritage proudly, from half-timbered buildings and beer halls to bakeries serving up Bavarian style strudel and pretzels. That sense of place, paired with unmistakable Texas warmth, is a big part of its appeal. Visitors can hike the pink granite dome at Enchanted Rock, br

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture has been one of Harlem’s great repositories of materials focused on African American, African Diasporan and African experiences. Now, as it marks its 100th anniversary, the institution is celebrating the milestone with a list of recommended books that spans the breadth of Black literary and scholarly history. Released as part of the centennial celebrations, 100 Black Voices is a reading list that covers the last 100 years of Black writing. One hundred books, one hundred authors. Each title comes recommended by Black writers, artists and scholars who know the weight and power of Black literature firsthand. The list was curated by the Schomburg Center’s Jean Blackwell Hutson Research and Reference Division, grounding the project in deep archival expertise as well as personal passion. The range is wide, with works rooted in the Harlem Renaissance, books that shaped classrooms and living rooms and contemporary titles that are still generating buzz. You’ll find classics like I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and Sula, alongside modern staples such as Ta-Nehisi Coates’s Between the World and Me, Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi and Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. Together, the selections trace how Black writers have documented joy, rage, intimacy, politics and survival across generations. The contributors behind the recommendations include cultural heavyweights like Jelani Cobb, Glenn Ligon, Imani Perry, Alison Stewart, Henry Louis Gates, J

The ice cream darling known for luxe scoops and cult favorite flavors recently opened the Van Leeuwen Flavor Lab in Greenpoint, giving aficionados a new way to experience the brand. A hub of innovation, the Flavor Lab offers exclusive small-batch flavors alongside fan favorites, plus special collabs and pop-ups. The Lab launched a frozen yogurt pop-up last week, and if you haven't been by to check it out yet, here's your sign: you can get Van Leeuwen fro-yo for just $1. To mark National Frozen Yogurt Day, Van Leeuwen is offering a truly unbeatable deal. This Friday, February 6, you can try their frozen yogurt for $1, toppings included, only at the Flavor Lab. All day long, from open to close, you can experience Van Leeuwen's take on the tasty treat with your choice of two toppings while supplies last. A dollar doesn't get you much these days, so this deal is not one to miss. There are only two flavors, but you know they're going to be good. Traditional tart is clean, and tangy, made with organic A2 Bulgarian yogurt, which has a softer acidity and a richer texture than the usual frozen yogurt base. Matcha is made with premium Japanese matcha sourced from Uji. It's earthy and smooth, a bold contrast to sweet toppings. And the toppings are what really make it special. This is not just a sprinkle situation. Options include imported butter shortbread from Scotland, Sicilian pistachio cream folded with crispy kataifi, fresh passion fruit and berries, chocolate cookie crumbles and o