Michelin Moment, Fête Feasting and Other Happenings Around Louisiana

Satsuma Panettone from Lagniappe Bakehouse

The whisper of Michelin Guide’s undercover inspectors finally turning their gaze toward Louisiana has ignited a firestorm of finesse and competitive swagger. Among the profusion of notable new contenders in New Orleans: Le Moyne Bistro is luring Francophiles to the Warehouse District with French wines, cognac-tinged onion soup lavished with Gruyere, steak tartare and lavender-scented crème brûlée (formerly Tommy’s Cuisine, adjoined to new sister eatery Maria’s Oyster & Wine Bar). Uptown, on flourishing Freret Street, fashionable foodies frequent The Husky for a high-energy mountain lodge vibe, ritzy entrance bar, mouthwatering lamb lollipops and beef Wellington (from the same team behind the nautically themed Pigeon & Whale across the street). You won’t find signage outside the stylish Avegno (1726 Soniat St.) that was originally intended as a new “dining bar” flanking Gautreau’s. Instead, it has ascended among the cognoscenti as a chic destination for Gallic fare and stellar wines-by-the-glass, fresh oysters and fondue (from Gautreau’s acclaimed kitchen). The revered team behind popular Uptown restaurants Osteria Lupo and Costera opened Brutto Americano (formerly Josephine Estelle) in The Barnett featuring modern Italian cuisine in a stunning Art Deco space downtown. The Marigny’s cozy Evviva (formerly The Franklin) boasts James Beard award-winning Chef Rebecca Wilcomb and an ever-changing Mediterranean menu. Katilin Guerin’s bustling Central City Lagniappe Bakehouse (New Orleans’ only James Beard Award finalist in 2025) has a cult following for sweet and savory baked goods elevated with West African spices.

Natchitoches | Red, White and Balloons

Natchitoches is adding something extra to the festive fireworks show on Independence Day weekend (July 4-5). Hot air balloons are soaring over the Cane River during the Natchitoches Balloon Festival in celebration of America’s birthday. Dusk brings a mesmerizing balloon glow illuminating the sky. Visitors can meet the pilots, take a balloon ride and enjoy live music and the reimagined fireworks.

Lake Charles | Celebrating the Declaration

The city of Lake Charles launches a celebration of America’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with Red, White, Blue & You! (July 4). It’s the first event of a year-long celebration featuring a patriotic concert, an Armed Forces salute and a fireworks extravaganza over the lake.

Delcambre, Morgan City | For the Love of Shrimp

Country crooner Joe Nichols (“Brokenheartsville,” “Sunny and 75”) debuts as the headliner for the 73rd annual Delcambre Shrimp Festival (August 13-17) featuring a fais-do-do, five-day street fair, local bands and Blessing of the Fleet. Morgan City celebrates the 90th annual Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival (August 28-September 1) with more than 100 venders offering new arts and crafts, a Children’s Village, carnival, children’s parade, oil rig tour and novel fireworks show.

Baton Rouge | Fête Feasting

Oenophiles and foodies are descending on Baton Rouge to sample an international array of more than 200 wines paired with culinary creations from a novel selection of top chefs during the 18th annual Fête Rouge (August 22).The gourmet weekend is enlivened with entertaining chef competitions.