Archived Article By Tom Fitzmorris
Originally published September 29, 2006
Click here for the current edition
Watch TV At Morton's For $250
On October 6 and 7, Morton's nationwide (including the one here in New Orleans, at Canal Place), will stage what the press release calls "a chance to get up-close-and-personal" with Wynton Marsalas. It will be a live performance by the internationally-acclaimed, New Orleans-born trumpeter.
On television. Not just any television, but a high-definition television. Digital projection. Big screen. (The release says it's 108 feet, but I think that was a typo, because the room isn't that big). Eleven speakers with surround sound.
Some kind of way, you can get a request to Wynton or even ask him a question.
While all that's going on, you get dinner. Here's the menu:
Sautéed Wild Mushroom Canapés
Tuna Tartare Canapés
Sliced Tenderloin on Crostini with Whipped Horseradish
Tomato and Asparagus Salad with Classic Vinaigrette
Filet Diane with Sautéed Mushrooms in Demi Glace Mustard Sauce
-or-
Broiled Salmon Fillet, with Julienne Vegetables
Haricots Verts and Herbed New Potatoes
Chocolate Velvet Cake
And drinks! Ruby Red Martini or Classic Martini. Beer. And Beringer's
"Founders Estate" Wines (which sell at retail for about $10 a bottle).
Now, the punchline: This evening of pleasure is $250 per person. I'd ask Wynton, "Why on earth does this cost $250?"
What do they think this is--a Saints game?
Okay, you get a more few things in a ditty bag. A $50 gift certificate for Morton's, a DVD signed by Wynton, and a few other gifts. They don't say whether tax or tip are included (I sure hope so). Nor could I find a mention of any charitable aspect to this thing, which would perhaps make it worth the ticket price.
I love Wynton's music and what he's done for the city lately. And I like Morton's, too. But. . . Is it just me, or does this just sound way out of line? Or for people who want to hang only with other people who can afford to blow a wad indiscriminately?
Maybe it's just me. Go to if it grabs you.
© 2006 Tom Fitzmorris. All rights reserved. news@nomenu.com