Classic Restaurants of New Orleans

Every New Orleanian knows Leah Chase's gumbo, but few realize that the Freedom Fighters gathered and strategized over bowls of that very dish.

Or that Parkway's roast beef po-boy originated in a streetcar conductors' strike. In a town
Alexandra Kennon grew up in the small town of St. Francisville, Louisiana, just a short drive north of New Orleans. After graduating from the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts, she moved down the Mississippi River to attend Loyola University in New Orleans, and the Crescent City's eccentricities and debauchery suited her so well she has since proudly called it home. In addition to writing about Louisiana's rich history, cuisine and culture, Alexandra leads tours of her beloved city and acts for the stage and screen--she is most proud to have originated roles in two Tennessee Williams one-acts.
"Within its pages, Kennon explores what it's like to be part of the process of creating the thousands of memorable meals that have been served at some of the most beloved (and mostly family-run) restaurants over the decades." The Advocate
"The roux-spattered archives of Antoine's, Arnaud's, Parkway Bakery and Tavern, and other heavyweights are crammed with anecdotes, not to mention recipes, but that's where Kennon's highly unusual CV comes in. The editor/entertainer sifts through a century and a half of culinary histories to craft a compelling narrative rife with colorful traditions... Just as valuable are her expansive conversations with owners, chefs, bartenders, and oyster shuckers alike as they tote weighty reputations and make delicate changes with another century of success in mind. "In many places, chefs can carry the burden of a restaurant and its menu," said Kennon, "but in New Orleans it's really a mix of chefs and owners carrying on family legacies. You don't go into a role as fifth generation owner of a family business without being passionate. They feel an obligation--and were honest about that. But there was always passion." Country Roads Magazine