A new Bywater counter is serving Japanese-inspired sandos on house milk bread and crunchy sides from a compact St. Claude storefront. The concept grew from pop-ups into a permanent spot this spring.

Wakin' Bakin' will close its Banks Street flagship on July 15 after 15 years. The French Quarter location will remain open.

Ana Castro, Serigne Mbaye, E.J. Lagasse and Link Restaurant Group earned James Beard finalist nods while New Orleans writer Boyce Upholt won a media award during the Chicago ceremonies.

Yaya's in Kenner folds tom yum and pad Thai into an American-style steakhouse menu. Expect tom yum pizza, drunken noodles and rotating 'Adventure Mondays' specials.

Fête Brewing, founded by David LaFranca, is opening a Colorado‑inspired taproom at 1001 Savoy Rd in Youngsville with a seven‑barrel system and house beers served on‑site.

Good Catch Thai Urban Bistro has been awarded Thai Select 1‑Star status, a selective international recognition for authentic Thai cuisine. The award highlights Chef Aom’s work bringing traditional flavors to New Orleans.

Bar Tonique, a tiny craft‑cocktail room on Rampart Street, made Esquire’s 2026 Best Bars list for its iconic Ramos Gin Fizz. The bar’s long‑running, unpretentious menu and tight neighborhood vibe earned national praise.

Good Time Sushi has reopened in Gentilly with a rebuilt sushi bar and hibachi seating, restoring a longtime neighborhood lunch spot.

Neighborhood restaurants report a steep summer slowdown, with some owners saying sales are down about 30%. Practical tips for keeping local dining rooms busy this season.

Chef Michael Stoltzfus says Coquette will close after nearly 18 years. The Garden District mainstay will serve its last regular meal June 26 with a final event June 27.

The French Market’s Creole Tomato Festival marks its 40th year June 6–7 with tomato‑forward food, live music, a second line and family activities in the French Quarter.

Troy Gendusa plans to reopen the original Rivertown cottage as a weekend second location while the main pizzeria continues at a larger Williams Boulevard site.

Wow Turkey has opened at 401 Andrew Higgins, centering its menu on 24‑ounce smoked turkey legs stuffed with crawfish, jambalaya and mac and cheese. The new spot lists reservations and a full online menu.