When it rains, it pours. While we battle the bombardment of rain at the beginning of June, the rain began pouring in our hearts when we learned of the passing of the Queen of Creole Cuisine Leah Chase over the weekend. We’ll miss the brightness she brought to countless people across the city, not just in her food, but in her words and wisdom on living life to the fullest (in our bellies and our hearts). We resurfaced a column from Holy Thursday to share her passion for her dishes. We also shared a personal experience with the famous chef. “You meet people along the way, and they all leave you with a little something.” – Leah Chase.
Our time with each other is temporary. Each moment we share with each other is a treasure. When you find that light in the darkness, bathe in that light. Time with them is precious.
Remembering a culinary icon
The city suffered a loss, and things feel different after the death of the Queen of Creole Cuisine, Leah Chase, Sunday. Her numerous accolades will always remain relevant, but her heart, her words, her very aura are what we will all miss the most. We have so many great memories of her, from recalling family stories to sitting in her packed restaurant on Holy Thursday for Gumbo Z’Herbes.
Calm a grieving heart with food
After Chase’s passing, we’re all feeling down. But the best way to calm a soul is with some good food. The brunch at Chef Susan Spicer’s new restaurant, Rosedale, is sure to start your healing while honoring those who have gone before us and those who are still here, creating their own legacies both in and out of the kitchen.
2 Girls 1 Shuck
Sure, you might giggle when you hear the name Two Girl One Shuck, but this full amenities traveling oyster bar is no laughing matter. Since 2014, these lovely lady shuckers based out of the Bywater have been convincing folks to swallow their fears and mingle with mollusks. Owner Becky Wasden talked with us about proving that behind an oyster bar is a woman’s place. (Powered by the taps at Urban South Brewery)
What’s Happening This Weekend
Thurs. June 6, 2019
Matrix Movie Night | Parleaux Beer Lab | 8 p.m. (Weather Permitting) | FREE
What will it be? The red pill or the blue pill? Join Very Local New Orleans and see how deep the rabbit hole goes.
We’re screening THIS Thursday, The Matrix for its 20th anniversary at Parleaux Beer Lab in the Bywater while enjoying some beer and popcorn!
Fri. June 7, 2019
4th Annual Purple Takeover | One Eyed Jacks | 10 p.m. | $20 in advance
Dance like it’s 1999 to all your favorite Prince and Prince-related jams from The Time, Sheila E. and Vanity 6. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Electric Girls, a local nonprofit that builds girls’ confidence and capabilities by engaging them through STEM (science, technology, engineering and math).
Sat. June 8, 2019
Creole Tomato Fest | 11 a.m. | French Market | Free to attend
The 33rd annual French Market Creole Tomato Festival will host two days of live music on two stages, cooking demonstrations, food booths featuring treasured and unique Creole Tomato dishes, activities for kids, and the 4th annual Bloody Mary Market in Dutch Alley.
New Orleans Pride Parade | 7: 30 p.m. | Starts at Elysian Fields Ave. and Royal St. |Free
This parade is the largest pride parade on the Gulf Coast. The family viewing area will be at Jackson Square. Paid balcony viewing is at Good Friends Bar & Queens Head Pub, Oz New Orleans, Bourbon Pub and Parade.
Sun. June 9, 2019
Pride Weekend Drag Brunch | 11 a.m. | Pythian Market | Free to attend
Thirteen food vendors will have all kinds of brunch options for purchase, plus bottomless mimosas and libations from Bar 1908.
Family Equality Day | 10 a.m. | Long Vue House & Gardens | Free
Longue Vue was the family home of Edith Stern and Edgar Stern, two of New Orleans’ leading philanthropists and activists of the 20th century. The Sterns used their beautiful home to entertain, and also to champion causes in civil rights and social justice. Family Equality Day aims to honor their legacy by opening the house to all families. There will be performances, crafts, kid-friendly activities and a resource tent tailored to LGBTQ+ families.
