Author: Emily Gautreaux

A French Quarter Favorite Makes OpenTable’s Top 100 List-GW Fins

Louisiana has long been recognized for its rich culinary traditions, refined dining culture, and bold coastal flavors, with New Orleans consistently leading the way. In 2025, that reputation was further reinforced when GW Fins earned national recognition as one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants according to this article from The Daily Advertise. The honor placed the French Quarter seafood destination among the most sought-after dining experiences in the United States, based on diner demand and verified guest reviews.

OpenTable’s annual Top 100 list was determined through insights collected directly from diners who booked and reviewed meals through the platform. As one of the country’s leading restaurant reservation and discovery services, OpenTable evaluated thousands of establishments using metrics tied to consistency, guest satisfaction, and overall dining experience. The inclusion of GW Fins reflected not only its popularity but also its continued ability to deliver high-quality seafood cuisine in a competitive national landscape.

Located in a stylishly updated warehouse space in the French Quarter, GW Fins built its reputation on a creative and constantly evolving menu centered on fresh seafood. The restaurant became widely regarded as a seafood authority in New Orleans, offering dishes that balanced classic Gulf Coast influences with modern culinary refinement. According to OpenTable, menu standouts included traditional barbecue shrimp alongside more elevated offerings such as lobster dumplings, allowing diners to experience both familiarity and innovation in a single meal.

Seasonality played a defining role in the GW Fins dining experience. Prior to the restaurant’s national recognition, the culinary team described its approach as one where seasonal seafood met precise technique. Each dish was prepared to enhance the natural flavor and texture of the day’s freshest catch, rather than overshadow it. This philosophy guided everything from ingredient selection to final presentation, ensuring that seafood remained the focal point of every plate.

Executive Chef Michael Nelson and Chef/Owner Tenney Flynn were central to maintaining that standard. According to OpenTable, the leadership team ensured exceptional quality by sourcing seafood from both local waters and international fisheries, flying in select products when necessary to meet exacting standards. Their commitment to freshness was reflected in the restaurant’s practice of printing its menu daily, a detail that underscored the constantly shifting nature of the offerings and the reliance on what was available at peak quality.

In addition to its culinary focus, GW Fins cultivated an atmosphere that aligned with its fine dining identity while remaining approachable. The restaurant maintained a dress code intended to preserve a polished dining environment without requiring formal attire. Coats and ties were not necessary, but guests were expected to wear slacks, dress jeans, or dress shorts, with collared shirts required for gentlemen. Athletic wear, t-shirts, cut-off shorts, and baseball caps were not permitted, a standard consistent with many high-end restaurants throughout downtown New Orleans.

The OpenTable recognition highlighted GW Fins’ role in shaping New Orleans’ contemporary dining scene and reaffirmed the city’s influence on American cuisine. By combining meticulous sourcing, seasonal creativity, and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant continued to attract diners seeking a standout seafood experience rooted in both tradition and innovation.

The national acknowledgment also underscored the broader strength of New Orleans’ culinary ecosystem, where tradition and innovation frequently operated side by side. In a city known for its historic foodways and competitive restaurant scene, continued recognition required more than reputation alone. Together, these factors solidified GW Fins’ standing as a place where craftsmanship, quality, and coastal flavor consistently converged.

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Cast-Iron Venison with Raspberry–Blackberry Reduction

Dishes that feature wild game have long held a significant place in the culinary traditions of Louisiana, particularly in regions where hunting is woven into seasonal rhythms. This refined preparation for Loin of Venison with Blackberries over Mixed Greens, from Louisiana Cookin, highlights the delicate flavor of venison, pairing its lean, earthy profile with bright berries and fresh greens. The technique showcased here mirrors the style often associated with Chef John D. Folse, whose work has shaped conversations around regional foodways across South Louisiana and beyond.

This recipe begins by emphasizing the importance of proper seasoning—an element frequently celebrated in the culinary philosophy of institutions such as the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute at Nicholls State University. Coarse salt, cracked black pepper, granulated garlic, and fresh thyme come together to form an aromatic rub. This mix enhances the venison’s natural depth while complementing the fruit-based topping that appears later in the dish. Thoroughly patting the meat dry allows the seasoning to adhere properly and assists with browning once the tenderloin reaches the skillet.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Pat the venison dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix coarse salt, ground black pepper, granulated garlic, and fresh thyme. Rub the seasoning evenly over the tenderloin.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the venison and brown on all sides, rotating as needed to create an even crust.
  3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°–140°F. Remove from oven and allow the meat to rest.
  4. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced shallots and sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar, followed by blackberries and raspberries. Warm the berries gently, stirring occasionally.
  5. Pour the warm berry mixture over mesclun greens and toss lightly. Divide the salad among serving plates. Slice the rested venison into ½-inch slices and arrange over each portion of greens. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

This preparation of Loin of Venison with Blackberries over Mixed Greens brings together methods and ingredients closely connected to Louisiana’s regional foodways, particularly those rooted in a longstanding appreciation for wild game and seasonal produce. The combination of seared venison, caramelized shallots, balsamic vinegar, and the brightness of fresh berries reflects a culinary approach that values contrast—melding savory depth with fruity acidity. These flavors echo the type of refined yet approachable dishes highlighted across Southern dining, where berry reductions and cast-iron searing techniques often appear alongside traditional preparations. The warm berry mixture,softened gently to maintain shape, adds both visual appeal and aromatic richness, reinforcing the dish’s focus on celebrating naturally vibrant ingredients.

When served over mesclun greens, the final plate captures a balance that aligns rustic elements with more contemporary Southern sensibilities. The lean texture of the venison contrasts with the lightly wilted greens, while the berry glaze provides a finishing note that unifies color, flavor, and texture. Presentations such as this underscore how game meats can be showcased in elegant, restaurant-quality formats without losing their regional identity. By pairing earthy venison with seasonal fruit and a bed of contrasting greens, the dish demonstrates the versatility of wild game within modern cuisine and offers a visually striking centerpiece suitable for both casual gatherings and more formal dining occasions.

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Winter Warmth in the Heart of the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains create an unforgettable backdrop for a winter escape, and the season becomes even more atmospheric at the Dollywood DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. With festive décor, seasonal activities, and seamless access to Dollywood, the resort embraces the spirit of the holidays while offering plenty of opportunities to unwind between adventures. Visitors find a warm, welcoming environment designed to highlight the best of the Smokies during the most magical time of year.

A stay at DreamMore provides effortless access to Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, one of the region’s most anticipated holiday events. The theme park glows with more than six million lights, turning every walkway and building into a brilliant display. Nighttime visits feel especially enchanting as colorful tunnels, illuminated trees, and synchronized light shows transform the entire park. With DreamMore’s complimentary trolley service, traveling back and forth is simple, allowing guests to experience Dollywood both during the day and again at night when the lights shine at their fullest.

Holiday crafts add even more opportunities to unwind. The resort offers festive DIY kits—everything from ornaments to decorative keepsakes—for an easy, hands-on evening activity. These project kits are ideal for travelers who want to take home something personal and reflective of their holiday stay.

Music also plays a central role in the DreamMore experience. Throughout the season, live performers fill the lobby with classic Christmas songs, creating a warm, old-fashioned atmosphere. The combination of soft lighting, decorated trees, and live music often encourages guests to linger long after they planned to move on, enjoying the resort’s inviting holiday rhythm.

Food enthusiasts will want to try the famous cinnamon bread from Dollywood’s Grist Mill. Conveniently, the same warm, buttery loaf is also available at Song & Hearth inside the DreamMore Resort. Rich, gooey, and generously spiced, the bread has become a beloved tradition for many visitors, especially during the holiday season.

Accommodations at the resort are modern, spacious, and designed to maximize comfort during a winter stay. Many rooms offer mountain views or glimpses of the illuminated grounds, adding to the seasonal atmosphere. December typically brings moderate to high nightly rates—around $300—with amenities such as an indoor pool, full-service spa, fire pits, a fitness center, and convenient transportation to Dollywood included.

Travel to the DreamMore is straightforward, with McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville located about an hour away. Renting a car is recommended, both for convenience and for the opportunity to explore nearby destinations, includingGatlinburg and the scenic roads leading into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a personal vehicle, visitors can easily pair holiday relaxation with outdoor exploration.

Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth seasonal visit. Early booking is essential since December fills quickly, especially on weekends. The resort’s perks—such as TimeSaver Line Access and a direct shuttle to Dollywood—offer significant benefits during the busy holiday period. Allowing time for rest is equally important; the resort’s serene indoor pool, cozy corners, and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to slow down and enjoy quiet moments between outings.

With festive decorations, warm traditions, and close proximity to one of the country’s most celebrated holiday theme park events, the DreamMore Resort offers a memorable seasonal retreat in the Smoky Mountains. The combination of thoughtful programming, scenic surroundings, and genuine hospitality creates a holiday experience that feels deeply connected to the spirit of the region.

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LSU Partnership Positions UNO for a Bold Campus Rebirth

The UNO Lakefront campus, long recognized as a cornerstone of higher education and community engagement in the region, entered a defining moment as it prepared to transition into the LSU System, as per this news release from Louisiana State University. Once home to nearly 17,000 students prior to Hurricane Katrina, the campus’s enrollment had declined to roughly 5,000 students in recent years, prompting an urgent need for fresh investment and renewed strategic direction. Temporary operational stability had been achieved thanks to the Louisiana State Legislature’s allocation of $20 million to the University of Louisiana System during the 2024 legislative session and the efforts of UNO leaders. Still, the spirit of alumni and the strength of the Lakefront community remained steadfast, anchoring hopes for revitalization.

A major milestone will occur on July 1, 2026, when operational oversight of the Lakefront campus officially shifts from the University of Louisiana System to the LSU System. This change signaled far more than a procedural governance update. It represented an opportunity to reimagine the university’s academic mission, rebuild enrollment, and fully activate the value of its remarkable lakefront location. To guide this process, a new transition team composed of alumni, industry specialists, and administrators from both institutions was formed. The group planned to convene on November 5 for a half-day planning session focused on academic priorities, facility improvements, athletics, and community partnerships.

The transition team’s agenda drew inspiration from successful models at LSU Alexandria, LSU Eunice, and LSU Shreveport—campuses that had strengthened enrollment and academic programming by sharing resources across the LSU System and aligning academic offerings with regional workforce needs. Chancellors from these institutions were scheduled to share insights during the planning session, emphasizing strategies that had generated measurable success.

A central focus of the upcoming transition involved reshaping the academic profile of the Lakefront campus to align with Louisiana’s contemporary economic landscape. Proposed enhancements included expanded healthcare education in collaboration with LSU Health, broader engineering pathways that reflect industry demand, and strengthened national-defense and research initiatives leveraging the campus’s unique location. The plan also included growing arts administration programs and elevating hospitality, tourism, and culinary offerings—logical expansions in a city globally renowned for its cultural and gastronomic identity. With New Orleans serving as one of the world’s leading destinations for food, hospitality, and culture, the campus stood well-positioned to become a premier educational hub for these industries.

Athletics also remained a significant part of the UNO Lakefront identity. The transition group included well-known figures such as former head basketball coach Tim Floyd and former athletic director Ron Maestri, both of whom would help ensure that Privateer traditions remained central even as new strategies were introduced. With increased enrollment, intensifying alumni engagement, and collaboration with LSU Athletics, future LSU New Orleans sports programs—such as basketball in the Arena and baseball at Maestri Field—would be poised for competitive and sustainable growth.

Collaboration extended beyond campus boundaries. Leaders from sectors such as tourism, healthcare, technology, real estate, maritime industries, national defense, and finance were expected to provide guidance throughout the transition. Their support aimed to strengthen economic mobility, expand career opportunities, and position the Lakefront campus as an engine for regional growth.

Ultimately, the shift into the LSU System represented more than a structural realignment. It symbolized the renewal of the original vision for the LSU New Orleans Lakefront campus: a thriving, world-class institution where students could innovate, discover, and prepare for meaningful futures. As the transition unfolded, one message echoed clearly—New Orleans deserved a flagship institution fully aligned with its culture, its industries, and its aspirations.

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Four Years of Progress Highlight Statewide Academic Improvement

The Louisiana Department of Education released its 2024–2025 School and District Performance Scores, marking the fourth consecutive year of statewide academic improvement. Students across the state reached their highest overall rating since the creation of the current 150-point accountability model. The announcement reflected a statewide commitment to instructional quality, with educators and families contributing to sustained academic progress. As summarized from the remarks of State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley, the multiyear gains demonstrated the potential unlocked when schools remain focused on strong instruction and targeted academic outcomes.

Louisiana’s overall statewide score for 2025 reached 80.9, representing an academic improvement and increase of more than five points since 2021 and nearly one point above last year’s rating. All index areas either improved or held steady, indicating widespread progress. Individual School and District Performance Scores were posted publicly through the LDOE data portal, allowing families and educators to examine local results. The Department also released a statewide list recognizing top-performing school systems and campuses for both growth and achievement. Together, these results demonstrated progress across Louisiana’s K-12 education system and across school types, including elementary, middle, and high schools.

This year’s letter-grade distribution also reflected meaningful momentum and academic improvement. Statewide, 21% of schools earned an A, 31% earned a B, and 32% received a C. Only 12% of schools were rated D campuses, and 4% received an F. Elementary and middle schools showed substantial improvement, with 44% earning an A or B. High schools demonstrated even stronger performance, with 70% earning one of the top two letter grades. These gains aligned with ongoing initiatives across Louisiana public schools to strengthen curriculum pathways, expand targeted interventions, and improve instructional supports for educators.

The release also marked the final year of performance scores calculated under the state’s outgoing accountability formula. The existing model has often been viewed as outdated, overly complex, and misaligned with the expectations needed for true career and college readiness. Next year, the state will introduce its redesigned system—Grow. Achieve. Thrive.—which raises expectations, clarifies measures, and places more emphasis on whether students graduate prepared for a career, college, or military service. Schools and districts will receive ratings through a streamlined scorecard centered on three major expectations: Grow, meaning students make meaningful academic progress each year; Achieve, meaning students reach proficiency in core subjects; and Thrive, meaning students graduate on time and prepared for postsecondary pathways.

To support schools ahead of this shift, the LDOE also released simulated 2025 performance scores using the Grow. Achieve. Thrive. model. These simulations were not official results but served as a preview of how the new accountability structure may impact future ratings. Early feedback from districts indicated that the clearer design and increased alignment with readiness expectations would help schools guide long-term planning more effectively.

Alongside K–12 results, the Department published the 2025 Early Childhood Performance Profiles, which applied to publicly funded early learning centers across the state. This included child care centers, Early Head Start/Head Start programs, and school-based pre-K sites. Each location received a rating based on rigorous classroom observations focused on instructional quality, educator-child interactions, and overall learning environments. Community networks responsible for early childhood coordination also received separate performance profiles reflecting system-level quality across Louisiana.

The statewide early childhood rating rose to 5.54, marking a 0.05 increase from the previous year. More than 95% of early childhood sites were rated Proficient or higher, with 73% receiving High Proficient or Excellent status. Community networks showed similar success, with 95% earning top-tier ratings. Additionally, all observation domains increased statewide, reflecting continued improvement across instructional, emotional, and organizational practices. Notably, early language support for infants and toddlers—from birth to age two—met the benchmark for high-quality practice for the first time, as measured within the Engaged Support for Learning domain.

The release of the 2024–2025 performance data underscored steady, statewide growth and signaled the beginning of a new era in Louisiana’s accountability approach. With four consecutive years of rising scores and a redesigned model ahead, Louisiana schools are positioned to continue strengthening academic outcomes and supporting long-term student success.

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Exploring Brisbane: Culture, Coastlines, and Contemporary Style

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a subtropical city known for its warm climate, riverfront lifestyle, and rapidly growing cultural identity, as per this travel guide from Travel + Leisure. Long considered a gateway to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, the city now stands confidently on its own, offering a mix of world-class dining, modern architecture, outdoor experiences, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. With major attractions, vibrant neighborhoods, and significant momentum leading up to the 2032 Olympic Games, Brisbane continues to establish itself as one of Australia’s most compelling urban destinations.

Today, Brisbane ranks among Australia’s fastest-evolving capitals, fueled by a wave of innovative dining, new cultural investments, and the global spotlight brought by Bluey and the countdown to the 2032 Olympic Games. Chefs return from Sydney and Melbourne to build their own culinary identities, local designers shape fresh creative precincts, and major infrastructure projects redefine the skyline.

At the center of this reawakening is The Calile Hotel, an architectural landmark lined with palms, breezeways, and cream-toned curves. Designed by Richards and Spence, the hotel stands as both a lifestyle hub and a symbol of Brisbane’s new direction. Its presence anchors James Street—the city’s most influential retail and dining precinct—where boutiques, restaurants, and cultural programming shape one of the city’s strongest creative identities.

Travelers seeking accommodations with personality can look to Miss Midgley’s, a restored 1860s schoolhouse in New Farm that now hosts five thoughtfully designed suites. Each space blends heritage brickwork with modern comforts, including full kitchens, plunge pools, and garden-facing rooms perfect for extended stays. For a panoramic alternative,Emporium Hotel South Bank offers Brisbane River views from its infinity pool and immediate access to the city’s cultural zone.

Nearby, the elegant Spicers Balfour Hotel channels traditional Queenslander architecture—wide verandas, timber details, and leafy perspectives. The property sits close to Balfour Kitchen & Bar, where Vietnamese-inspired dishes highlight the region’s fresh produce and tropical climate.

Travelers looking for immersive experiences turn to Bluey’s World, an interactive recreation of the Heeler family home filled with music, games, and charming set pieces from the hit Brisbane-born series. Wildlife enthusiasts find a quintessential Australian experience at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s oldest and largest koala refuge, located just outside the city.

Across the river, South Bank showcases Brisbane’s subtropical lifestyle—jacaranda-lined walkways, parklands, and striking views of the city skyline. Here, visitors explore QAGOMA, home to international exhibitions and one of the nation’s most significant collections of Indigenous art.

Sports remain central to the city’s culture. Brisbane supports multiple major teams, including the Broncos, Reds, andLions, who play at the energetic Suncorp Stadium. Game days bring the city to life, with crowds moving throughCaxton Street toward kickoff.

For shopping and dining, the James Street precinct remains unmatched. Boutiques such as Camargue, Samantha Ogilvie, and P. Johnson sit alongside design-forward Australian brands like Zimmermann, Venroy, and Dinosaur Designs. Restaurants including Gerard’s Bistro, Same Same, and Biànca ensure the area stays lively from morning into late evening.

Beyond the city limits, Brisbane serves as a gateway to stunning natural escapes. Moreton Island offers shipwreck snorkeling, sand tobogganing, and dolphin encounters just 75 minutes offshore. Nearby, North Stradbroke Island—known as “Straddie”—promises surf breaks, freshwater lakes, and relaxed coastal towns. To the south, the Gold Coast shines with high-rise beachfronts and world-renowned surf, while Noosa lures travelers with national park walks and crystal-clear bays.

Brisbane’s best season runs from April to October, when humidity eases and outdoor festivals fill the city. Highlights include the Brisbane Festival each September, major sporting events, and art programs that animate the riverfront and cultural precincts.

With its subtropical climate, bold architecture, natural escapes, and a rapidly developing culinary and creative scene,Brisbane emerges as a city fully stepping into its moment. Whether explored for a weekend or used as a launching point for Queensland’s coast, it offers a rewarding mix of culture, design, and relaxed urban energy.

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