By ANNETTE SISCO Staff writer This week in New Orleans food news, Circle Food and Rouses' groceries serve up next-level prepared food, while a chef makes a big move. Plus, crawfish mac 'n' cheese! Let's dig in... 1. New at Circle Food. At New Orleans' historic public markets, vendors offered everything from fresh produce and meats to prepared goods. The Circle Food Market, on the site of one of those markets, continues the tradition for a new era with a food court focusing on diverse flavors, seeking to nurture up-and-coming talent. Ian McNulty takes a look at what's happening at Circle Food. 2. Bagging some memories. In a similar vein across town, Rouses' has opened a compact grocery amid Freret Street's restaurants and nightclubs. Not to be outdone, there's a restaurant and bar inside the store. We check out Rouses' Faire and discuss the inevitable comparisons with the old Schwegmann's groceries. 3. And more headlines... In other news, a well-known New Orleans chef will lead a new restaurant at the Virgin Hotel; footballer Peyton Manning brings a Tennessee bourbon to Louisiana; the first taproom opens in Jefferson Parish; and a look at the New Orleans restaurants that re-opened in the pandemic. 4. Crawfish mac n' cheese? Yes, please! Your Memorial Day potluck is begging for this outrageously wonderful dish by food writer Teresa B. Day. Check out Crawfish Mac n' Cheese here. 5. Food memories. Who has tamales like the old Manuel's, sold from carts around New Orleans? Members of the Where NOLA Eats Facebook page have their opinions. Jump into the discussion here. That's it for the food newsletter, but in New Orleans the food news never stops. For more, visit us at NOLA.com. Have a great long weekend, and thanks for reading! --AS Are you a NOLA.com subscriber? If you are, thanks so much. But if you’re not, we’ve got a great offer for you. Check it out! |