Archived Article By Tom Fitzmorris
Originally published April 14, 2008
A Party With Antoine's Appetizers, Tonight, $45.
New Orleans-Born Cocktail Survey
New Orleans, in addition to being the birthplace of jazz, Creole cooking, and a few other cultural breakthroughs, is also the place where the cocktail was created. So it's no surprise that many great cocktails are unique to this place.
This Friday, Antoine's opens its unique second-floor Japanese Room for a cocktail-and-appetizers party that explores the broad range of home-grown cocktails.
Of which there are many. You think immediately of the Sazerac, of course. (Even though the state legislature last week failed to name it the official state cocktail.) And of the Ramos gin fizz. You may not know that the old fashioned was created here. And besides all those, many restaurants invented their own concoctions, good enough that they're served everywhere now.
Antoine's survey of these tipples is a reprise of a martini party they had about six months ago. It was so much fun that somebody (actually, it was me) suggested that they make it a series, and do this idea next.
Chef Mike Regua says that he'll create a parade of appetizers, including both the familiar and the novel. One of the best signs of new life at the old restaurant is that they're adding many new dishes, while keeping the old Creole style.
Last time around, my own plan was to enjoy the cocktails and appetizers, then go downstairs for a full dinner. As it turned out, I had enough food at the party to leave me more than satisfied.
The price is $45 inclusive. It begins at 6:30 this Friday, April 18. The proceeds of the event will benefit the wife of one of Antoine's long-time staff members, who is beset with a difficult health problem. (The people preferred not to be identified, but I know the man well, and he makes a big difference to the goodness of a dinner at Antoine's.)
To reserve, call the restaurant at the number below. I will be there, and hope to clink glasses with you!
Antoine's. French Quarter: 713 St. Louis. 581-4422.
© 2008 Tom Fitzmorris. All rights reserved. news@nomenu.com