No Matter How Things Change…
By Jared Andrukanis, Segment Producer
I am sitting in my office at Zero Point Zero trying to figure out exactly how we are going to get Queens of the Stone Age out to New York in the middle of their U.S. Tour when my phone rings. It is Chris, the Executive Producer of the show, and when he tells me where I am going on my next shoot, I nearly drop the phone out of my hand.
Chris says that Tony is going to New Orleans, and it is going to be a different kind of “No Reservations”…
I know it sounds strange that a statement like that could cause me enough shock to lose my grip on the handset of my office phone, but let me explain…
I am sitting in my office at Zero Point Zero trying to figure out exactly how we are going to get Queens of the Stone Age out to New York in the middle of their U.S. Tour when my phone rings. It is Chris, the Executive Producer of the show, and when he tells me where I am going on my next shoot, I nearly drop the phone out of my hand.
Chris says that Tony is going to New Orleans, and it is going to be a different kind of “No Reservations”…
I know it sounds strange that a statement like that could cause me enough shock to lose my grip on the handset of my office phone, but let me explain…
Turns out that I happened to be living in New Orleans as Hurricane
Katrina was making its way towards land, and a few of my friends and I
decided to have a hurricane party instead of doing what 95% of the
population of the city chose to do (grab all they could and get the
hell out) before the storm made landfall.
Needless to say, we spent quite some interesting days in the city during the days after Hurricane Katrina. We mostly passed the time by standing on the roof of our flooded house, and using a boat that we had “liberated” from a nearby backyard to cruise around the neighborhood. So now, after living in New Orleans, and after staying in town during the hurricane, I get to go back and shoot an episode of No Reservations there…quite a coincidence, to say the least.
Speaking to Chris, ideas for possible restaurants and places to see are rapid firing through my head, “Ok…I got some ideas, this is gonna be great.” I then remember his earlier comment, “What makes this show different?” I ask. Chris says, “Tony wants to see how the city is recovering after Hurricane Katrina, most importantly, how the restaurants are coping with the storm and aftermath. The focus is on what Katrina did to the people and the industry.”
I am speechless…
Let me impress the gravity of that statement for all of you:
New Orleans is known all over the world for its culinary prowess. Hurricane Katrina is the worst natural disaster to hit the United States in modern times. And I spent a good deal of time walking around my flooded neighborhood in late August 2005 …this is going to be interesting.
After a few weeks of prep I am getting off a plane with the rest of the crew at Louis Armstrong Airport, just outside of New Orleans proper, and am immediately assaulted by a very familiar blast of humidity accompanied by a feeling of homesickness. I forget how hard it is for me to come back now. So many memories left behind after that storm, so many changes as well. As for the shoot, it was a busy week and we covered a ton of ground.
While filming in New Orleans, a few things were for sure: The food in this town still kicks ass…period. The crew and Tony can still roll out of bed at the crack of dawn, shoot four locations, and then end up at a bar until almost 2AM…and still get up for an early call the next day (multiple nights). And, most importantly, the city is on its way back, although changed forever. Everyone here has a Katrina story now, and in a town full of people who love to tell you a little bit about themselves, they all took some time to share with us some stories about that tragic time and the city they love. But if the stories we heard were quite different than what you would think…these people are not beaten down by what has happened, but focused, ready to keep pressing forward regardless of what has happened. They are looking to the future, to whatever it may hold. And these are the people we spent the week talking to and sharing meals with.
I won’t go into details about what we did or who you will be seeing in this episode (though I bet you will recognize a face or two besides Tony’s when you watch the show), but I will say this: As we called wrap and shut off the cameras, we were at a barbeque full of newfound friends that had shared their stories with us. On my plate was a mound of slow-cooked pig and homemade coleslaw, and as I dug my fork into it to gather a giant bite, I felt like we had done the city justice ... and for a brief moment, I felt like I was home again.
JA
Needless to say, we spent quite some interesting days in the city during the days after Hurricane Katrina. We mostly passed the time by standing on the roof of our flooded house, and using a boat that we had “liberated” from a nearby backyard to cruise around the neighborhood. So now, after living in New Orleans, and after staying in town during the hurricane, I get to go back and shoot an episode of No Reservations there…quite a coincidence, to say the least.
Speaking to Chris, ideas for possible restaurants and places to see are rapid firing through my head, “Ok…I got some ideas, this is gonna be great.” I then remember his earlier comment, “What makes this show different?” I ask. Chris says, “Tony wants to see how the city is recovering after Hurricane Katrina, most importantly, how the restaurants are coping with the storm and aftermath. The focus is on what Katrina did to the people and the industry.”
I am speechless…
Let me impress the gravity of that statement for all of you:
New Orleans is known all over the world for its culinary prowess. Hurricane Katrina is the worst natural disaster to hit the United States in modern times. And I spent a good deal of time walking around my flooded neighborhood in late August 2005 …this is going to be interesting.
After a few weeks of prep I am getting off a plane with the rest of the crew at Louis Armstrong Airport, just outside of New Orleans proper, and am immediately assaulted by a very familiar blast of humidity accompanied by a feeling of homesickness. I forget how hard it is for me to come back now. So many memories left behind after that storm, so many changes as well. As for the shoot, it was a busy week and we covered a ton of ground.
While filming in New Orleans, a few things were for sure: The food in this town still kicks ass…period. The crew and Tony can still roll out of bed at the crack of dawn, shoot four locations, and then end up at a bar until almost 2AM…and still get up for an early call the next day (multiple nights). And, most importantly, the city is on its way back, although changed forever. Everyone here has a Katrina story now, and in a town full of people who love to tell you a little bit about themselves, they all took some time to share with us some stories about that tragic time and the city they love. But if the stories we heard were quite different than what you would think…these people are not beaten down by what has happened, but focused, ready to keep pressing forward regardless of what has happened. They are looking to the future, to whatever it may hold. And these are the people we spent the week talking to and sharing meals with.
I won’t go into details about what we did or who you will be seeing in this episode (though I bet you will recognize a face or two besides Tony’s when you watch the show), but I will say this: As we called wrap and shut off the cameras, we were at a barbeque full of newfound friends that had shared their stories with us. On my plate was a mound of slow-cooked pig and homemade coleslaw, and as I dug my fork into it to gather a giant bite, I felt like we had done the city justice ... and for a brief moment, I felt like I was home again.
JA
I can't wait to see the episode on New Orleans. I am a big fan of the show.
Can't wait to see this show!
I myself can't wait to see this episode. I know this one more than likely was kind of emotional one to do, because of what happened in NOLA in 2005.
Sounds like you all had a blast shooting this episode, wow partying in local hang outs until 2 am and getting up at the crack of dawn.
Just one question, Jared was Tony a bear in the early am after partying all night or was he happy go lucky and the NR crew bears in the am?
Can't wait to see a famous face or two I have a feeling I know who one might be could it be Emeril, BAM.
Jared I'am glad you got out safely.
hi,
I have a question. I love the samantha and anthony show and I was wondering how do you become and crew member. Which kind of job are they looking for? camera man ? make up artist ? how does that work. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME
I am looking forward to seeing the episode, too. I am especially pleased to read that you all are going to get to the heart of the story, rather than sugar-coat it. First the State Department, and now FEMA? My DVR is ready...
I'd really like to see how this show turns out. I hit up New Orleans after Katrina and Rita, there was not much open at the point, even during Mardi Gras. (I was there to see a band, not for Mardi Gras.) It will be great to see what has changed.
If you guys need more crew I'd be glad to pitch in, getting away from News Media would be a nice change.
Hi guys! Sorry to divert the subject matter, but when are you ever planning to visit Hungary? It would be so great to put my little country on the map so that I would stop being asked if I am hungry or whether I am from Latin America :)
xox
I am also looking forward to seeing this show. I've gone to New Orleans
numerous times--went last year to Mardi Gras also, staying at the lovely historic
Monteleone Hotel--New Orleans is definitely coming back. There's
too many folks like myself who want it to--We won't let it die no way. The food,
the culture and the music is still some of the best America has to offer.
Jared, come back home........
You have to go to the Camillia Grill. Talk about a great local restaurant with tons of character that will crack you up. Some of the workers have been there forever. anthony will thank me.
Living in Houston Texas I've alway been a fan of "Nawlens" It sounds like a great show. Tell Anthony to please visit the Camilla Grill. Talk about a great place with tons of character.Good breakfast and interesting entertainment that will crack you up.Some of the people working there have been there forever. You have to go!You will thank me .
i just moved away from new orleans. i can't wait to see this episode. but, as anyone who loves the city knows, to truly have a new orleans moment you gotta be there. in the 8 months i lived there i never felt more alive.
Hope ya'll made it to Snake and Jakes's Christmas Club Lounge. I have seen things that defy description happen there. I know Tony's a big fan, especially of "Naked Tuesday"
Am excited to see the N.O. episode and also excited that Jared is doing great at his new job. Great Job!
P.s. Order Please?
You were left agape? Oh my!!! Lighten up, Sonya baby.
are you kidding me? you're airing the NOLA show on Lundi Gras? don't the suits know we'll be all be at Gras parades and parties?
glad to see NOLA made the list this season. trust you'll get it right.
I had 15 volunteers from Plano, Texas help me gut my flooded home July 2006. I treated them daily to our local fare, including NorJoe's muffalettas; Touche's, Russell's and R&O's soft-shell po-boys, debris po-boys, oyster po-boys, catfish po-boys, and stuffed artichokes; Jacques Imo's alligator cheesecake; Mr. Ed's famous fried chicken and o rings; and Haydel's Cajun Kringle and King Cake. We drank Barq's and Abita's Restoration Ale. We listened to Eric Lindell, Sonny Landreth, the Subdudes, Dr. John and Fats. It was 99' with 110% humidity "cooled" by our daily 4 pm showers. NOLA gets close and sticky, but to know us is to love us.
sonya marie, I speak for all of us when I say that we're glad you and the stick up your a!@ don't live in New Orleans, too.
sonya marie, I won't speak for all of New Orleans, but I'm glad you don't live here too. We do not need this kind of naysayer attitude during our recovery. to generalize that the "whole place is a freakshow" is just wrong. perhaps our charm and ambience are not your cuppa, but you don't have to slam us. I guess our multi-cultural "platter" will just have to survive for even more centuries without you.
Unity in Diversity! Peace!
Makes me want to cry....I can close my eyes and remember the way IT WAS... No place on Earth like it.
NOW I'm afraid to go " home ", a friend in the Faubourg Marigny neighbor ( MD who treated poor people and an artist ) were Murdered in their home for NO REASON!, It's not safe and the s#$@ head(s) occupying the white house have not kept a single promise ( suprised ? ) to rebuild and renew.
BTW the pumps that failed in one critical pumping station were sold to N.O Levee Board ( not the most honest bunch) by a Sub Corp OWNED BY BROTHER BUSH and they DID NOT MEET THE SPECIFICATIONS SET OUT AT BID, THE DOCUMENTS WERE DOCTORED AND THOSE PUMPS FAILED ALLOWING SOME OF THE WORST FLOODING..think you will hear about it on the TV..(Only one time, then they were, I suspect, shut up by big bro ). N.O. , Gone forever, a memory I shall cherish as long as I live. Laissez les bon temps roulet. Maj.Thom
YEA YEA Lakeview Brat... you can set you watch by dem 4 PM Showers in Summer..standing by da clock at Holmeses watching the world go by on Canal Street.. R&O,OH, NOW YOU DID IT, YOU MADE ME CRY...
I WANT TO GO " HOME" , I was NEVER as ALIVE as I was when I lived in NOLA..
Laissez les bon temps roulet
Maj.Thom (waz from) Gov Nichols
SM, if you find yourself in NOLA, suggest you try: IRIS, Bistro Daisy, Patois, MiLa, Irene's Cuisine, Clancy's, Gautreau's, Herbsaint, Bayona, Restaurant August, LUKE, CUVEE, Dick & Jenny's, BRIGTSEN'S, RICHE', Peristyle, Wolfe's in the Warehouse, UPPERLINE, STELLA!, One Restaurant, Mat & Naddie's, Martinique Bistro, LILETTE, La Petite Grocery, Bistro at Maison de Ville, Tommy's, Pelican Club, The Grill Room, La Cote' Brassere, Eleven 79...and then there's Galatoire's, Bourbon House, Commander's Palace, Dickie Brennan's Steak House, GW Fins, Morton's, Mr. B's, Palace Cafe', Feelings, Grand Isle, K Paul's Redfish Grill, John Besh's Steakhouse, Cafe' Minh, Tony Angello's, Pascal Manale's, Drago's...did I mention Le Parvenu, Da Piero, Ristorante del Porto, Laurentino's, Melange, Etoile', Cafe' Degas, Ralph's on the Park, Cafe' Amelie, Broussard's, Arnuad's, Antoine's, Bacco, Nola, Emeril's, Delmonico, Rib Room, Chateau du Lac, Cafe' Lynn, Latil's Landing...for all of the 888 restaurants now opened since Katrina, go to:
http://www.nomenu.com/default.html
SM, if you find yourself in NOLA, suggest you try: IRIS, Bistro Daisy, Patois, MiLa, Irene's Cuisine, Clancy's, Gautreau's, Herbsaint, Bayona, Restaurant August, LUKE, CUVEE, Dick & Jenny's, BRIGTSEN'S, RICHE', Peristyle, Wolfe's in the Warehouse, UPPERLINE, STELLA!, One Restaurant, Mat & Naddie's, Martinique Bistro, LILETTE, La Petite Grocery, Bistro at Maison de Ville, Tommy's, Pelican Club, The Grill Room, La Cote' Brassere, Eleven 79...and then there's Galatoire's, Bourbon House, Commander's Palace, Dickie Brennan's Steak House, GW Fins, Morton's, Mr. B's, Palace Cafe', Feelings, Grand Isle, K Paul's Redfish Grill, John Besh's Steakhouse, Cafe' Minh, Tony Angello's, Pascal Manale's, Drago's...did I mention Le Parvenu, Da Piero, Ristorante del Porto, Laurentino's, Melange, Etoile', Cafe' Degas, Ralph's on the Park, Cafe' Amelie, Broussard's, Arnuad's, Antoine's, Bacco, Nola, Emeril's, Delmonico, Rib Room, Chateau du Lac, Cafe' Lynn, Latil's Landing...for all of the 888 restaurants now opened since Katrina, go to:
http://www.nomenu.com/default.html
sonya marie, get with the program Tony quit smoking over four months ago.
Lakeview Brat, the food you served to the people who helped you out in your time of need sounds awesome. Makes me want to come visit NOLA.
As for the NR episode that Tony has done on New Orleans I can't wait for it to air so I can see all the wonderful places Tony went to.
All - try and be civil. If you want to duke it out go onto the Message Boards - http://community.discovery.com/eve/forums/a/cfrm/f/1391945208
Thank you!
RaniRo, travelchannel.com producer
Luckily, the show repeats many times so if you miss it Lundi Gras then...The suits don't know from Lundi Gras or any Gras for that matter.
Tony did good by taking his show to New Orleans. He gets it.
I can't wait to see this show. I have been too cowardly to go back since Katrina.
So many beautiful people have died and I'm bitter that the levees STILL are not properly re-built. (!!)
God love you (Anthony?) for taking the show there. Maybe when I see it I will regain my courage to return.
(How weird is it to love a city as if it were a person? )
How does one become a cameraman? Is there a college for it?
jeudi, you should definitely plan on visiting NOLA. there are many parts of the city that were not touched by the Federal Flood: the French Quarter, Garden District, our CBD and Warehouse District, the Audubon Zoo and the Aquarium of the Americas.
most of what was destroyed by the failure of the US Army Corps of Engineers controlled levee system was sadly the residential areas. but by all means, I encourage anyone visiting to take a tour of the devastated areas to gain not only a better understanding of the vast expanse of destruction but also to see the spirit and resilience of our people who choose to rebuild and recover one of our most important cities in the U.S. we have had the overwhelming benefit of over 1 million volunteers come to our area to help with first entry and now in the rebuilding. it has been estimated that it will take about 5 to 7 years for the area to fully recover, as it sat under approx. 12 feet of Federal Flood water for up to 4 weeks. to have your entire infrastructure putrify and rendered unfit for service, well it just takes time and resources to fix it. but repairs and new builds are well underway, and NOLA is open for business.
NOLA has hosted many Mardi Gras, Jazz Fests, Voodoo Music Fests, Sugar Bowls, the BCS championship, many citywide conventions, and the upcoming NBA All Star game and will continue to welcome our tourists and volunteers who share in our tenacity, spirit, and understanding.
if you want to hear the eclectic sounds of our various musical talents, smell the wafting of our coffee and chicory, a pot of red beans and rice, or the sweet olive that is in air, see the historic importance of our architecture and ride the St. Charles streetcar, visit the many art and farmers' markets popping up all over the city, and taste all that this city has to offer, then don't hesitate. we're open!
now you peaked my interest in the show. I always watch, but knowing a few of the Katrina "Runners" as they call themselves, I can't wait for this show.
Maj. Thom:
don't be afraid to come "home". NOLA is the same and getting better every day. sure our landscaped changed a bit, and yes we may all live in different neighborhoods for now, but the heart, pulse and spirit of NOLA hasn't changed.
I came back after my 5 week evacuation and saw a city covered in a gray that looked the like the worst winter in a mosaic desert on the moon. but life and color has returned. that nasty Grinch couldn't take away what makes this city great: our food, art, and music and our sense of neighborhood, spirit and love of life.
NOLA is "home" to our citizens near and far; Be a New Orleanian Wherever You Are!
It warms my soul to hear so many heartfelt comments about our culture and people. New Orleans is back, and getting stronger every day. I recently heard that we have more restaurants now, than prior to the failure of the federal levees.
The story of Arabesque is a great one. A couple was in the process of fulfilling their dream of opening a full service restaurant and ran out of funds. At the same time, friends that been offered $10,000 by another friend right after the storm wanted to repay their benefactor. The benfactor refused, and said play it forward. The money ended up with the owners of Arabesque. The restaurant opened and is prospering.
The heartfelt generosity of the American people continues to blow us away. By the way, to the woman that said India is rebuilding and not asking for help. India is another NATION, Louisianians, and Mississippians are TAX PAYING CITIZENS. Now excuse me while I go find my Bloody Mary.
I CAN"T WAIT TO SEE THIS SHOW.
NR is by far my favorite show on the Travel Channel and New Orleans has some killer restaurants and food. My favorite restaurant is Jacques Moi's in the Uptown area near Tulane U. The owner is quite a character and the Alligator Cheese Cake is to die for.
My company http://www.curioustravelers.com produced an eight episode/hour travel show on different festivals in HD and in the interest of full disclosure I submitted it to the Travel Channel a month ago and now I’m waiting to hear back from them. Perhaps they will pick up the series and air the Mardi Gras episode with your New Orleans show. It certainly would compliment your show, particularly if they schedule it on Mardi Gras day, which this year falls on February 5th.
The host of our Mardi Gras episode is a Katrina evacuee and the episode features his return home for the first time after the hurricane and finding his home in shambles, then celebrating with his neighbors, many of whom have also lost their homes also.
There is a scene in the show at a Mardi Gras party: A woman addresses the camera directly in a heartfelt moment and speaks for the local residents when she says "For all the people who said we shouldn't have Mardi Gras this year. We had to do this".
It's quite an emotional moment.
Then a performer at the party sings a heartfelt song with the lyrics: " Louisiana. They tried to wash us away. They tried to wash us away. You can't wash us away."
We've screened the episode in New York City where we are based and some people in the audience were in tears. Everyone was amazed at the resilience of the people to keep their two hundred year Mardi Gras tradition alive.
New Orleans is a great place to film. We found the people as nice as I've ever met but the general feeling there is that the country hasn't really done as much as they could to help them out. It's really a shame.
I hope the city recovers soon from the devastation of Katrina soon. When we were there the city was in really bad shape. You could drive for miles without seeing anyone in some areas, just empty homes after empty homes. I've heard it's not much better now.
If you're curious about another filmmakers take on New Orleans and Mardi Gras you can see the episode on our site
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1321280110 and click on the Mardi Gras tab.
Best of luck with your shoot. I’m sure it’s going to turn out great.
This is a question for Todd Liebler, one of the cameraman on the show.
Todd Liebler,
I have a great respect for what you do. In fact so much so that I want to become a cameraman myself. Where do I begin? I have completed high school and some college. Is there a technical college? I would like to become a cameraman on the travel channel. How did you get your start in becoming a cameraman?
Galatoire’s tops Bayona for Zagat’s No. 1 rating
by Editor Terry O'Connor COMMENTARY
Posted: CityBusiness
The 2008 Zagat Survey contains several juicy morsels about the New Orleans wining and dining scene guaranteed to whet your appetite for one of our culinary or entertainment destinations.
One Zagat nugget stands out above all others: New Orleans remains one of the biggest dining bargains in the nation with an average meal cost of $26.18 coming in nearly 22 percent under the national average of $33.42. Obviously these “average” meals do not come with bottles of fine wine or pricey entrees. But it’s still impressive.
More than 3,600 participants shared their dining experiences and reviewed more than 600 of NOLA’s restaurants, nightspots, hotels and attractions in the 2008 Zagat Survey.
“The guide was created to help visitors and locals alike rediscover the rich, cultural life of New Orleans,” said CEO Tim Zagat.
In a prized returnees category, Zagat listed the French Quarter’s Bistro at Maison de Ville and Mr. B’s Bistro, Mid-City’s Crescent City Steakhouse and Mandina’s and Uptown’s “beautifully restored” Gautreaux’s.
Breakfast lovers cheered the return of Blue Plate Grill in the Lower Garden District and Riverbend’s landmark Camellia Grill, according to Zagat.
Zagat listed 26 most notable new restaurants, including: Ardoise, Baru Bistro and Tapas, Bistro Daisy, Brazil Latino, Café Madea’s, Café Minh, Carnaval Grill, Easy Dogs, El Gato Negro, Fire of Brazil, Grand Isle, La Divina Gelateria, La Vita, Luke, Mayas, Melange, Mila, New City Grille, Patois, Stein’s Market, St. James Cheese Co., The Store, Sucre, Tomatillo’s, Trinacria and Yoko.
The top 10 most popular restaurants:
1) Galatoire’s
2) Bayona
3) Café du Monde
4) NOLA
5) Emeril’s
6) Brennan’s
7) Acme Oyster
8) K-Paul’s
9) August
10) Antoine’s
Note: Zagat said the most popular list would be incomplete without mention of Commander’s Palace, which owned the No. 1 spot 17 years in a row until Hurricane Katrina interrupted operations. “It reopened in high style following the completion of our survey,” Zagat said.
Hottest nightspots
Remember, Zagat is heavily influenced by tourist survey responses, which really shows in the nightspots list. The top 10 New Orleans nightspots, according to Zagat, are:
1) Pat O’Brien’s
2) House of Blues
3) Tipitina’s
4) Preservation Hall
5) Columns Hotel
6) Lafitte’s Blacksmith
7) Jimmy Buffett’s
8) Mid-City Lanes
9) Maple Leaf
10) Snug Harbor Jazz
Zagat magnets
The top five most popular city attractions are:
1) Audubon Aquarium
2) French Market
3) Audubon Zoo
4) National World War II Museum
5) Audubon Park
My friend was a nurse at the hospital. She lives in Ohio now, and like you, misses her old life there terribly. I think that for her New Orleans will always be home. It will always be the place she's trying to get back to.
I will definitely make a trip there this year.
To RaniRo,
in reference to the vile remarks posted by SonyaMarie, I respectfully ask that they be removed. I sincerely doubt the validity of Its comments. even after you asked for It to take it "outside", It continued to post nonsense (that It has repeated in other non-related subjects on the Message Boards).
now excuse me while I go back to boiling crawfish, shrimp, sausage, chicken, potatoes, corn, garlic and mushrooms and go watch my pot of alligator boudin simmer while my Abita Jockamo beer chills...Be Nice or Leave!
When I was watching the marathon of 'No Reservations' during my holiday, can't say how psyched I was to hear the show going to 'Nahlins' where I spent 6 months trying to do all i could to help a city I love and consider my second home in the South, and I will say celebrated undoubtedly the best Thanksgiving of my life that year with friends and stangers alike all coming together in true resolve to make things better.
Kudos to Tony, producers and crew on doing what I'm sure will be a great show!
Don't forget Drago's charbroiled oysters.
Better than sex my friends. Well, almost.
Lakeview:
Thanks for your kind and informative response; I will be returning as soon as possible...my soul requires it. I know what it means to miss New Orleans...sigh.
(We still need to pressure to get the levees fixed!!)
I escaped icy Michigan and spent 5 months in New Orleans subcontracting for FEMA. I lived in Slidell by old towne for a while and spent many wonderful nights in NOLA. There is an aura uniquely New Orleans that is ambigious and in your face at the same time. The city I like is Blues, crawfish, oysters, and seedy strip joints. The heart of Louisiana, what I grew to love, was the people. Homes destroyed, piles of broken memories, entire subdivisions pushed into the ditches but no one remiss in rebirth. No where else can you so readily find 64oz. drive-though Daquerie shops and hot alligator andouille at gas stations. How I miss the sounds, smells and spirits of a great town.
It was good to hear from ya today, Jared! Looking forward to seeing our week of debauch hit the air...give my regards to the rest of the crew and Tony! Ya'll were awesome to hang with!
bd
jeudi, we here in NOLA are not stopping the pressure on the Corps and our elected officials. here are two sites that have great info on the cause:
http://levees.org/
http://fixthepumps.blogspot.com/
hurry home!
Kinch, slammed down a few dozen raw and char grilled the other night.
Eat Oysters, Love Longer!
What was the quote that was said while Tony was out in the desert with people surrounding him as he ate, it went something like, "Once all your faults are exposed, life is more easy". It was a very good quote. It was on Monday 1-14-08's showing.
Thanks in advance for any assistance.
John
Gods, that is just so cool!
I love that you guys did this, and I am so looking forward to watching, whenever I manage to find a way to!
Hey Guys! Thank you so much for covering our Big Easy! It is great that you can inform people that New Orleans culture is still surviving and that it is okay to come back and visit.
Jared, I can only imagine how it was on your roof for that first week. I was from Chalmette, LA and was holed up at my sister's house in Madisonville. I just watched ya'lls episode in Beruit and as I watch the looks of worry from uncertainty on ya'lls faces a wave of sorrow enveloped me. Been there huddled around the radio wondering if the whole world has forgotten you! Gosh, to think you've been in that situation twice.
Thank you all for producing a wonderful window of the world time and again!!!! Take care and Le Bon Ton Roulette!
I've been to New Orleans once, and it was an amazing place to visit. I must confess I went after reading a lot of Anne Rice books. I dragged my husband through the Garden District, to stay at the Ponchatrain Hotel and eat at the Commander's palace. It was magical. New Orleans is a favorite of any destination we've ever been to. We will go back, if only for Chickory coffee and that fact that you can drink while stumbling around. I can't wait to watch this episode.
Don't forget to visit Mother's. A most popular restaurant of even the Neville brothers, well look at the wall of celeb's when you go in. No Frills! After being out all night this breakfast place is just what you want. Don't count calories......It's just home cookin to die for. Bet you can't eat all the biscuits they put on the table!!! I was southern born and southern bred and when I die I'll be southern dead. GRITS.(Girls Raised in the South)New Orleans will rise again. Barbara Inverness, Fl.
Yeah, The New Orleans episode is next can't wait to see it.
Now for an off the topic question to raniro or who ever is in charge of the message boards. How come I can not log into the message boards to write a reply? I have tried and it won't let me in I thought us exsiting members would have no problem when the TC moved to a new url it just says can not find your account HELLO I have been a member since December of 2006. What the hecks going, why can't I log on?
Thanks
june-baby
In the day to day life in N.O. (Gentilly and rebuilding as I write this), I forget how much I love being here and can't imagine living anywhere else. Thanks to all who have written and inspired me/reminded me of all the great things we have to offer here.
Can't wait to see this episode!!! Good story too!
I just finished watching the New Orleans episode, and I am not exactly sure how to put this. It is a mixture of sadness, joy, pride and hope. I am a resident of Alexandria, Louisiana, to find it just point to the center of the state, and I too was affected by Katrina and Rita. I did not lose my home, and I still have everything I had before the hurricanes. I did however work for a major electronics retailer, and tried by best to help those who really needed it. I spent hours on the phone convincing cellular service providers to change numbers so that the refugee I was helping could reach their family. I worked double shifts finding rooms and other lodging for husbands and wives that tried to calm their scared children. I was witness to people receiving the news they did not want, caught those would could no longer stand, and gave an ear to those who needed to tell their tale. I’ve held a white knuckle grip to the counter as a man dared to stand before me a gloat about looting televisions and rims. Alexandria was a small town, not tiny, but not large by any means. I watched my city struggle to help those who needed it and then ask what else they could do. I guess what I am getting at is; New Orleans is fighting an uphill battle and it continues to carry on even after the other cameras have turn away. I just want to Thank Anthony Bourdain, his Crew and the Travel Channel for giving that information to the world.
thank you so much for your show on new orleans. i'm sure you went away with mixed emotions. one the passion and pride of the locals, and their tenacity, along with the sadness of 2 years plus later our governments is still not of the people or for the people. your shining light on the present situation, makes me proud of people like you, of prudential real estate for holding their convention there in march (i'm a realtor) and it offers an opportunity to anyone watching to try to do more for fellow humans. thank you again, meg anderson
New Orleans was the best episode - - EVER!
I laughed and cried..... I felt like after watching it twice I had a whole new set over friends when I visit....
Tony and crew have done it again and better than ever! Keep doin what cha do! Cause we love it!
The T-shirt said it all that was worn by the comedian/bar owner "New Orleans the city that the government forgot".
I loved the New Orleans episode it was a very emotional episode tears were running down my eyes watching this NR.
A job well done Tony and crew.
Well done! As a born-and-raised New Orleanian, you guys definitely "get it". NOLA is not "back" yet, but it's working at it, and it still needs help. That's not charity... it's common sense. It's a travesty that the government could fail and let collapse a major American city -- a city that is the soul of the country -- so miserably in so many ways. But the proud people still there don't care. They're doing it themselves. Thanks for bringing attention to what is STILL a national tragedy and STILL a national responsibility, and a story of courage and hope, to the viewers.
Kudos, guys:
I watched "New Orleans" last night. I foresee another Emmy nomination this year. I'm proud of you. A cool idea to have Tony and Emeril together at last--both of them class acts.
THANK YOU!!! SAVE NOLA!
Happy Mardi Gras...and do come back! Hail Rex, Hail Zulu, Hail Yes!
THANK YOU for putting New Orleans back on the world map. I watched your show last night and it was to the point! However, with so many restaurants to choose, next time, try IRENE'S CUISINE in the French Quarter. Like any restaurant, it's a who's who clientele and the food is to die for! I too, have traveled the world and there is no place like New Orleans with it's diversed cuisine, art and music. I look forward to seeing a future updated episode.
Thanks so much for the New Orleans show. I am a native New Orleanian currently living in Baton Rouge but I get back as often as I can. The show was great - brought tears to my eyes and made me feel good at the same time.
I knew the New Orleans show was coming up soon and we watched it last night after recovering from MG. I can't believe Tony was 2 blocks from our house eating po-boys I we did not even know it!
When did they film down here?
As a longtime fan of No Reservations and a native New Orleanian, I watched with great anticipation. All I can say is, "Wow!" This episode far surpassed my expectations. Thank you for making such a great show and telling the world about the current state of New Orleans. As a side note, can you tell me who recorded the version of "When The Saints Go Marching In" used in the show?
Thank you for this episode -- it was honestly one of the best ABNR's that I have seen. You all have the wonderful ability to convey (not just tell) a story, and what an important one to tackle. As always, your local tour guides give such a unique perspective -- in this case Chris Rose certainly raised the bar. Absolutely amazing.
I can't wait to visit NOLA myself soon, and do my part to help enjoy some of the hospitality.
You have all perfectly hit your stride on the New Orleans episode of "No Reservations". Five stars to the entire production crew! I was blown away by a fresh and new look at the incredible devastation this region has endured, as well as the triumphant spirit of some of its biggest culinary supporters. As a side note, I love the way you're now handling the disclaimer at the beginning of the show and the start of each new segment after a commercial break. (The ebbing water motif here was brilliant!) But I also loved seeing the montage of chefs, cooks, waiters and entire kitchen staff workers on camera at the end of the program. A tip of the hat to the enduring dedication of some tough-minded folks and a very nice touch by the producers. I'd love to see more things like that in future episodes. Keep up the good work!
Mark Mohr
Spokane, Washington
You have all perfectly hit your stride on the New Orleans episode of "No Reservations". Five stars to the entire production crew! I was blown away by a fresh and new look at the incredible devastation this region has endured, as well as the triumphant spirit of some of its biggest culinary supporters. As a side note, I love the way you're now handling the disclaimer at the beginning of the show and the start of each new segment after a commercial break. (The ebbing water motif here was brilliant!) But I also loved seeing the montage of chefs, cooks, waiters and entire kitchen staff workers on camera at the end of the program. A tip of the hat to the enduring dedication of some tough-minded folks and a very nice touch by the producers. I'd love to see more things like that in future episodes. Keep up the good work!
Mark Mohr
Spokane, Washington
Thanks in large part to NR, my husband, two friends and I are going to NOLA for French Quarter Festival. Looking forward to seeing it for ourselves, indulging in the hospitality, and spending some money. You folks rock!