Fans are eagerly gearing up for this year’s Super Bowl and for those lucky enough to be in attendance, the warm culture and delicious food of New Orleans awaits. Known for its Creole cuisine, jazz, and the festive French Quarter, fans will be bombarded with many options. But for the best of the best, securing a seat will be harder as the time-clock counts down to kick-off. Local restaurants and venues will be hosting an array of events focused around game day. Special menus, fundraisers, and viewing parties are springing up all around the city. Here is a list of culinary and party events worthy of a Super Bowl-sized appetite.
Taste of the NFL
For this year’s Super Bowl, the Taste of the NFL will be throwing its 22nd annual hunger relief event, Party with a Purpose, in order to raise money for food banks. On the eve of the game, television personality and chef, Andrew Zimmerman, will be hosting the event at the New Orleans Convention Center. “I’m honored to be part of Taste of the NFL this year,” says Zimmern, “and proud of the fact that this national hunger relief organization got its start in Minnesota – the place I call home.”
The event pairs the best chefs from 32 NFL team cities with NFL players. Seven of the Big Easy’s local chefs will serve up “Flavors of New Orleans” with regional dished like R’evolution Truffled Debris Po’Boys (R’evolution) and Local Citrus Gastrique Strawberry Beignets (Centerplate).
Also making appearances will be the newly crowned Miss America, Mallory Hagan, stars from TLC’s Cake Boss, and the band Soul Asylum. Although VIP tables are already sold out, guest tickets are still available for $600 per person.
Photo Courtesy of Taste of the NFL
Commander’s Palace
This award-winning New Orleans favorite combines Haute cuisine with Creole tradition in a large Victorian house. The night before the Super Bowl, the most requested corner table overlooking the famed patio will be offered in an auction benefiting Girls First. Six guests will be treated to the Chef’s Playground tasting menu. Located in the Garden District, Commander’s Palace was voted most popular by Zagat and #1 restaurant in America by Food and Wine Magazine. The dinner is estimated at $5,000 and is currently at $1,500, but alcohol, tax, and gratuity are not included. Bidding ends Jan. 30 at noon.
Photo Courtesy of Commander's Palace
Emeril’s Delmonico’s
Emeril's Demonico Steakhouse has been around since 1895 and serves traditional Creole fare. For game day, they are offering a two-floor viewing event so guests can watch the Super Bowl on their 50 inch hi-def TVs. Chef Anthony Scanio will be serving a game day buffet with items like Spicy Boiled Gulf Shrimp Remoulade, Crispy Pork Cheeks, and Creole Smothered Chicken Thighs. Included is a full bar with hand-crafted drinks and wine and local beer specials. Price is $75 per person.
Photo Courtesy of Delmonico
Steve Smith Cocktail Party
Steve Smith, wide receiver from the Carolina Panthers, will be hosting the “Kick Off Your Shoes” fundraiser with proceeds helping Samaritan’s Feet, a organization providing shoes for the homeless and families in need. The cocktail party and 5-course dinner will also be hosted by ESPN analyst Marcellus Wiley. Game cleats from NFL players will be auctioned at the event, which takes place Wednesday, January 30th at Restaurant August from 7-11 pm. Tickets are $500.
Photo Courtesy of August
Walk-Ons
Walk-Ons, a sports bar near the Super Dome, is taking over an entire 15,000 spare foot parking lot and covering it with a climate-controlled tent for its Big Bowl Bash Tailgate Party from noon to 4. With an open bar and all you can eat menu, tickets are $400 per person. Special host is Troy Landry of Swamp People. Tickets are also available for the restaurant for $200 upstairs and $250 downstairs.
Allegro's
Allegro Bistro, two blocks from the Super Dome, is throwing a pre-game party on Sunday. Chipper Jones will be hosting their exclusive VIP tailgate party which features numerous sports celebrity appearances, like Chris Ivory and Derrick Sharper. Live dj, food and open bar is included. VIP packages are from $1000 and $2500.
Photo Courtesy of Walk-Ons
