BIG EASY: Restaurant R’evolution

I can’t begin to express the sheer delight I experience when I receive invitations like this: “Join us for a champagne reception, ribbon cutting, and grand opening celebration for Chef John Folse’s Restaurant R’evolution.”

Who, me? Hobnob with the likes of Mayor Landrieu and Secretary of State Dardenne, not to mention the legendary Chef Folse, the divine Mrs. Leah Chase, and the sublime Irvin Mayfield, whose Jazz Playhouse will serve nibbly things from the R’evolution’s kitchen? Seriously, I thought I'd died and gone to New Orleans heaven. (What other kind is there, right?)

As we sipped lovely bubbly in the lush courtyard of the Royal Sonesta Hotel in the French Quarter, a lineup of distinguished speakers took turns singing the praises of everyone involved in this joint venture between Chefs Folse and Rick Tramonto of Chicago, which offers “reinterpretations of classic Cajun and Creole cuisine.” Following the speeches, they moved on to the cutting of the ribbon. And by “ribbon,” I mean a garland of groceries. Wielding razor-sharp chef’s knives, they sliced and diced their way through peppers, garlic, sausages, and sweet potatoes, signifying the commencement of the mad dash (only a slight exaggeration) to the new facility, conveniently located adjacent to the hotel courtyard, with another entrance on Bienville Street.


The space is divided into multiple distinctive areas: Bar R’Evolution, a sophisticated, lantern-lit bar area with a gray slate floor, lots of dark wood, and gracefully arching backlit curio cabinets; the Storyville Parlor, a lavish center dining room with a grand chandelier and delicate hand-painted murals that depict New Orleans’ seven most distinctive cultural influences; the checkerboard-floored Market Room, so named for its old-world vibe, complete with cypress-topped communal tables and vintage-looking glass coolers, stocked with hanging roasts and such; the semi-private Wine Room, with a view of, you guessed it, the impressive 10,000-bottle wine collection; plus the Bienville Suite and Courtyard Room, which flank the hotel’s courtyard and Bienville Street, respectively.

We were also given a personal tour of the million-dollar custom-built Viking kitchen, which was both fascinating and intimidating. And while such tours may not be conducted so freely during regular operating hours, if you’re willing to shell out a few extra bucks, you can reserve the very secluded private chef's dining room for you and your friends. It comes complete with a private entrance and a bird’s eye view of the kitchen.

So. Stinkin’. Cool.


Okay, so on to the food. Let’s just say, if I still had a gallbladder, it would have punished me violently for indulging in an evening of such gastronomical decadence. There was a station set up to sample a dizzying array of cured meats and cheeses, and another for roasted pork and oysters, but the true delights were served like a tray parade of culinary treats. Everyone descended like locusts every time a server emerged with a fresh tray, so if you weren’t smart enough to station yourself near the kitchen door, well, you just had to suffer the disappointment of grabbing at an empty tray.

Guess where I stayed. And guess why my notes (and pictures) are so sparse. ‘Tis very difficult to balance a wine glass and plate while scribbling on paper or operating a camera, people! So, I focused most of my attention on tray after tray of perfectly seared scallops, velvety foie gras, bright and briny caviar (made from local alligator gar eggs, believe it or not!), impossibly tender sliced tenderloin, tangy goat cheese and beet salad, savory duck ravioli, and my personal favorite of the night – incredibly rich turtle soup (the recipe, dating back to the 1800s, is displayed prominently on a mirrored wall, by the way). Of course, there were also desserts like coffee beignets, Turbodog chocolate cake, and my second favorite of the night – white chocolate bread pudding with a crème brulee topping. Completely unreal.

Oh, there was more, but I seriously can’t recall the rest. Partly because of my poor note-taking, and perhaps, partly because of the free-flowing Chardonnay and Cuvee Blanc. Yes, like I always say: I'm more of an "eatie" than a "foodie." Therefore, I sacrificed journalistic integrity for gluttonous indulgence... and I'd do it again!!

Suffice it to say, the food is outrageous and the ambience is exquisite. Both cuisine and décor are painstakingly loaded with details and nuances that pay homage to our beloved city! Viva la R’evolution!

The restaurant is now officially open (as of June 4), so I highly recommend reserving that table asap. A place this amazing is guaranteed to book up fast!

Restaurant R'evolution
504.553.2277
http://revolutionnola.com

BIG EASY: Holiday Tea Time in New Orleans

New Orleans may be best known for its more boisterous festivities, but this city also has mastered the art of hosting refined afternoon teas–-especially during the holidays. Below is a listing of yuletide teas for both children and adults:

Tea For The Holidays at Windsor Court Hotel
Dates: November 25-December 31
About: Highlights of this decadent tea include featured holiday teas and cocktails, special cranberry-orange and gingerbread scones, holiday sweets, 26 of the finest loose-leaf teas, souvenir holiday menus.
Seatings:
November 25-December 23 & 26-30 – 11am, 2pm, and 4:30pm
December 24 & 31 – 11am and 2pm
Reservations: Online or call 504-596-4773

Teddy Bear Tea at The Roosevelt Hotel
Dates: December 3-23
About: This tea is for both children and adults. Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome the whole family while fancy tea and tea sandwiches, scones, desserts, sparkling wine are served. Kids get hot cocoa, peanut butter & jelly/ham & cheese sandwiches, holiday cookies, and other goodies. Kids 12 and under also get a Roosevelt Teddy Bear, Mrs. Claus will read holiday stories, and several holiday characters will appear. Pictures with Santa will be available for purchase.
Seatings:
December 3, 4, 19, 20 -- 10am and 1pm
December 10, 11, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 -- 10am, 1pm, and 4pm.
Pricing: General reserved seating: ages 3 and under, no charge; ages 4-10, $37 ($46.16 with tax and gratuity); 11 and up, including adults, $54 ($67.37 inclusive of tax and gratuity); Limited VIP reserved seating (includes Roosevelt champagne flute for adults, one commemorative photo per family, and premium seating near the stage): ages 3 and under, no charge; ages 4-10, $47.00 ($58.63 with tax and gratuity); 11 and up, including adults, $69 ($86.08 with tax and gratuity).
Reservations: Online or via The Roosevelt Holiday Line at 504-335-3129.

Cajun Holiday Tea with Papa Noel aboard the Creole Queen
Dates: December 3, 10, 17
About: Guests on the paddlewheeler will join Papa Noel, the Cajun Gingerbread Boy, Gaston the Gator and other jolly Cajun characters. This classic tea with tempting treats will also feature storytelling, children's activities, and merriment while cruising the mighty Mississippi. Children can hold a real live alligator and take home a stuffed one.
Boarding: 1:30pm - 2pm; Cruising: 2pm - 3:30pm
Price: Adults: $49, Children under 12: $34 (includes tax)
Reservations: Online

Papa Noel Tea at The Ritz-Carlton
Dates: December 3-24
About: This elegant tea is for both parents and their children. There will be music, storytelling, and a gingerbread masterpiece. Children will receive gifts from Papa Noel.
Seatings: December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17-24 – 11am and 2pm
Pricing: Adults and children $45 each (does not include tax or gratuity)
Reservations: Online or call 504-524-1331

Longue Vue Tea on Tuesday: Gracious Global Gifts with Vom Fass
Date: December 6, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
About: Join Denise Dussom, co-owner of Vom Fass New Orleans as she discusses delicious vinegars, oils, and cordials from around the globe. Sample some tasty treats and learn how to give a gracious gift this year, “straight from the cask to the customer.” A traditional tea will be served after the lecture with a selection of scones, pastries, homemade lemon curd, and finger sandwiches.
Price: $25 members; $30 nonmembers.
Reservations: Online

Longue Vue Holiday Tea and Tour
Dates: December 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, and 29, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
About: Tour the house, decked in twinkling lights and festive greenery; toast the holidays with a complimentary glass of champagne; savor tea with friends; enjoy seasonal sounds; and find the perfect gift at The Shop at Longue Vue.
Price: $30 for members; $35 for nonmembers.
Reservations: Online

Longue Vue Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays Family Tea with Santa
Date: December 10, from 1 to 3 p.m.
About: Children and their parents are invited to join Santa in celebrating the holidays at Longue Vue with caroling, crafts and good cheer! Have photos taken with Santa and create a festive frame to capture and share the joyful spirit of the season. Toast the holidays with a complimentary glass of bubbly cheer, served with hot chocolate, cookies, sandwiches, and tea.
Price: For children, $15 for members; $18 for non-members. For adults, $25 for members; $30 for non-members.
Reservations: Online www.longuevue.com.

Monte Lion's Children's Holiday Tea at The Hotel Monteleone
Dates: December 10 and 17
About: Hotel Monteleone’s loveable mascot Monte the Lion hosts his annual children’s party, along with friends Santa, Frosty, Rudolph, and the elves. Mrs. Claus will read classic Christmas tales while guests enjoy savory treats, games, and caroling as a trumpeter leads a parade. Plus, photos with Santa and a complimentary stuffed Monte.
Seatings: 10am and 2pm
Pricing: $50 for adults, $36 for children.
Reservations: Online or call 504-681-4452

The Royal Teddy Bear Tea at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
Dates: December 11-23
About: Highlights include a visit from many favorite holiday characters and a parade. Guests get a select assortment of freshly prepared tea sandwiches, homemade currant buttermilk scones and breakfast breads are served with lemon cream and preserves. Christmas cookies, chocolate truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and much more.
Seatings:
December 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 -- 11am and 2pm
December 20, 21, 22, and 23 -- One seating only at 11am
Pricing:
Premium Seats (closest to stage): Adults $68, kids $53
Regular Seats: Adults $58.00, kids $43.00
Prices include tax and gratuity.
Reservations: Online or at 504-553-2201