Gerrish Lopez

If there’s ever a time to embrace over-the-top, it’s the holiday season. Across the U.S., certain restaurants don’t just decorate, they transform into full-blown winter wonderlands. At these festive holiday restaurants, entire rooms are decked with twinkling lights, ornaments dangle from ceilings, tinsel takes over, massive wreaths adorn the walls, and of course, menus boast indulgent seasonal fare. Some spots lean into kitsch while others stick to traditional displays, but all turn dining out into a holiday event. The holidays are a time to sip mulled wine and spread cheer over hearty, comforting meals. These festive restaurants understand the assignment every year, transforming a typical dining experience into a whole holiday vibe with decorations on the walls and iconic seasonal favorites on the menus. Here are some of the most decked-out, joyful restaurants in America to visit this holiday season.  

Hello December! It's time to dive into the most wonderful time of the year. Trees and lights are going up, shops and markets are dialing up the holiday cheer and restaurants are gearing up for celebratory feasts. And speaking of feasts, if you haven't started planning your own, now is the time.  For many, cooking for a crowd on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day can be fun, a highlight of the season. But it does mean hours spent hovering over the stove, tracking timers and checking doneness all while entertaining guests. It can be exhausting, even if you're just prepping a dish or two to bring to the festivities. So why not leave the cooking to someone else? Washington, D.C., has plenty of restaurants that are open for the holidays, ready to turn an excellent meal into a celebration. From grand hotel ballrooms to warm French brasseries, restaurants are prepping their special Christmas menus. You'll find tasting menus, elaborate buffets, traditional spreads, Feast of the Seven Fishes celebrations and even take-home options so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without all the work. You can be sure these holiday offerings come with seasonal ingredients and lots of holiday flair. Whether you want something polished, cozy or over-the-top, here are the restaurants in Washington, D.C. that will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. RECOMMENDED: The 43 best restaurants in Washington, D.C. right now

Once you’ve finally worked off Thanksgiving dinner, it’s time to look towards Christmas. The trees and garlands go up, the playlist switches to Bing Crosby and The Nutcracker and all focus turns to menu planning for the big day. Christmas dinner is a cultural event, and while dishes and ingredients may vary regionally, there is, unquestionably, a roster of iconic Christmas dishes in America that no table can be without.  RECOMMENDED: The most magical Christmas light displays in the U.S. Sure, someone in the group will bring a dish that adds a “wow” factor, or a dish that incorporates unexpected ingredients, but Americans just can’t quit dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing or pecan pie. Yes, there will be arguments, but the standards will be there, tempting you with their sweet, rich, carb-heavy deliciousness. Each of these dishes can be presented simply or gussied up, but either way they’re the most iconic Christmas dishes in America, the dishes that you can’t resist and that you love even more the next day.  RECOMMENDED: The 17 best Christmas vacations in the U.S. for a festive getaway

Atlanta is a hub of hip-hop, soul food and Southern charm, but this city is rooted in history. There are a slew of museums in Atlanta that dive into the history of the South, the Civil Rights Movement and regional luminaries like MLK, Jr. and Jimmy Carter. But there are also museums dedicated to art, science, aviation, football and that beloved Atlanta-born beverage Coca-Cola. You can even explore the history of Waffle House and Trap music. Yes, Atlanta has many amazing museums where you can spend hours learning and having fun. Whether you’re visiting Atlanta for the amazing restaurants, cocktail scene, urban parks or attractions, don’t miss the opportunity to dig deeper and explore what makes Atlanta unique and how the city has influenced the history of the entire country. Here are the best museums in Atlanta. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Atlanta 🍴 The best restaurants in Atlanta👪 The best things to do with kids in Atlanta🏛️ The best attractions in Atlanta

What’s on your travel itinerary? For many, it’s museums, parks, architectural gems and historical tours. But plenty of travelers these days want to explore the soul of a city through its food scene. In powerhouse dining cities like New Orleans, New York and LA, eating can be the main event. Visitors arrive with bucket-list meals and strategies for efficient consumption. But under-the-radar cities and regions are spicing things up too. Gastro-tourism is on the rise as flavor hunters flock to food festivals and follow food trails, exploring the country one bite at a time. This type of traveler seeks out culture, history and hometown pride through landmark restaurants and in iconic dishes—from wonderful to weird. These aren’t flashy, Instagrammable bites that fade with the latest trends, they’re foods and culinary traditions that show what each place is all about. Every dish tells a story, and food tours are as essential as museum visits. While each of these places has enough must-eats to pack a weeks-long itinerary, consider this your jumping-off point for a trip to deliciousness (and pack your comfy shoes with your stretchy pants, because there are plenty of opportunities to walk it off and get you ready for more).

If Christmas dinner is the main event, dessert is the encore. It’s the sugar-fueled standing ovation that seals the deal after an indulgent holiday meal. Across America, holiday sweets are as varied as snowflakes: cookies shaped like snowmen, pies that get bolder after Thanksgiving and candies that can double as decorations.  Christmas serves as a last chance to indulge before “New Year’s Resolutions” dampen the mood, so these holiday desserts are all about spectacle. They sparkle, crumble, melt and crunch in equal measure. They remind us that the holidays are supposed to be excessive, joyful and a little bit sticky. Whether you’re the kind who bakes for a week straight or the type who “samples” frosting until the cookies vanish, this list celebrates the best of America’s holiday sugar rush. From peppermint bark to red velvet cake, here are the most iconic holiday desserts in America. RECOMMENDED: The best over-the-top holiday desserts in the U.S.

Hanukkah may be the Festival of Lights, but let’s be real: it’s also the Festival of Fried Things. Across America, Jewish families light candles, exchange gifts, and then proceed to celebrate with eight days of rich, hearty, gloriously carb-heavy foods. From crisp latkes to jelly-filled sufganiyot, each traditional Hanukkah dish speaks to resilience, heritage and the sacred joy of eating something deep-fried in the name of history. Some recipes trace back centuries; others have gone full American remix. This list honors the greatest hits of Hanukkah tables from coast to coast, the dishes that unite families and fuel arguments over whose bubbe makes it best. The most iconic Hanukkah dishes in America are the season’s most festive and most indulgent, perfect for making memories and celebrating the eight-day miracle. RECOMMENDED: The 10 best destinations in the U.S. to destress between the holidaysThe 11 most magical holiday events in the U.S. to get you feeling festive

Thanksgiving is America’s original food marathon. It’s one long, glorious day of cooking, eating, napping and watching (or pretending you understand) football. It’s the holiday that turns kitchens into command centers, dining tables into buffet lines and leftovers into a weeklong lifestyle. While every family claims to “do it differently,” the Thanksgiving lineup has been fairly standard throughout the years. The menu defines the day, with indulgent dishes that are fried, buttered, browned and beloved. Family members may argue over who has the best version of a dish, but the point is that the dish will always be on the table, no matter who makes it. Thanksgiving standards are so iconic that their flavors have been rendered in everything from ice cream and Oreos to pizza and potato chips. From juicy turkey to sweet, creamy casseroles that somehow count as vegetables, Thanksgiving food is about comfort, community and indulgence. Here are the most iconic Thanksgiving dishes in America, and inspiration for your take from some of the best versions around. RECOMMENDED: ✈️ The 5 best Thanksgiving getaways close to major U.S. cities🍽️ The Time Out Plate Swap: What Thanksgiving tastes like across the U.S.🎉 The 11 best Thanksgiving parades in the U.S.

The hotel scene in New Orleans is as rich and varied as the city itself. Whether you’re after a stay with a renowned bar and French Quarter nightlife on its doorstep or you’re looking for a secluded pitstop (with a rooftop pool) to take a beat from all the bustle, there’ll be something on this list for you. So, scroll on for Time Out’s refreshed roundup of the best hotels in the city, with brand-new reviews for Fall 2025 of The Roosevelt, The Royal Sonesta and Virgin Hotels New Orleans.  Which area is best to stay in New Orleans? If you’re here for the history, stay at the French Quarter—it’s the oldest part of the Crescent City and, yes, a top-tier place to party, but you’ll also find gorgeous boutiques, lip-smacking food and stunning views of the Mississippi river. Opt for the Warehouse District if you want artsy creative spaces on your doorstep, or book a stay in Mid-City or Uptown to have the bustle easily accessible, but not right outside.  Have a look at our brand-new neighborhood guide, curated by a local expert.  New Orleans’s best hotels at a glance: 💎 Most luxurious: Kimpton Hotel Fontenot 👛 Best budget: The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery 🏊‍♀️ Best swimming pool: Windsor Court Hotel 🌃 Best rooftop: Virgin Hotels New Orleans 🤩 Most iconic: The Royal Sonesta 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best budget-friendly hotels in New Orleans How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classic

There’s no wrong way to eat seafood in America—whether you’re digging into a lobster at a picnic table, slurping oysters at a raw bar or sipping champagne with caviar in a white-tablecloth dining room. From the Atlantic to the Pacific, the best seafood restaurants in the U.S. serve up fresh fish in every style imaginable. While coastal cities like Boston, Seattle and New Orleans set the standard, the country’s seafood scene stretches far beyond the shore. You’ll find Southern gems turning shrimp and grits into an art form, Midwest spots flying in pristine fish daily and modern chefs creating elegant takes on “catch of the day”. These are classic fish shacks, restaurants with refined tasting menus and everything in between. Here, freshness matters, flavor rules, and the only thing better than the food is the view when dining right near the water. Updated October 23, 2025: We've revisited our list of the best seafood restaurants in America to highlight and celebrate the seafood stars offering the freshest fish and most exciting seafood dishes. While restaurants like Aphotic in San Francisco and La Mar, the Peruvian favorite in Miami, have closed (fortunately, La Mar's closing is only temporary), classic spots are still going strong. Holbox, a Michelin-starred food counter in Los Angeles and GW Fins, an innovative fine-dining restaurant in New Orleans, join the ranks. If you love seafood, read on. From lobster rolls and fried clams to dry-aged swordfish and grilled tiger prawns,

It doesn’t get more heavenly than Hawaii, but if you’re planning a vacation to these dreamy Pacific islands, then finding the right place to stay is all the more important—we can’t have your time in paradise go to waste, after all. So, whether you’re after an off-grid grotto to immerse yourself in nature or are craving a restorative break at a gleaming beachfront property, our freshly-curated list of the best hotels in Hawaii, which includes brand new reviews of Kona Village and Ko’a Kea Resort, has you covered.  Which area is best to stay in Hawaii? If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time, we’d recommend staying in Waikiki or Oahu to have as many activities as possible on your doorstep. The Kohala Coast is a little more luxe, and Kauai is primed for those leaning more towards adventure than relaxation.  Hawaii’s best hotels at a glance: 💎Most luxurious: Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort 👛Best budget: Hotel Moloka’i 🏊‍♀️Best swimming pool: Wailea Beach Resort 🧖🏽‍♀️Best spa: Ko’a Kea Resort on Po’ipu Beach 🤩Most iconic: The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Hawaii How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels featured below, but we may not have stayed at every single one. Any we haven’t stayed in have been sel

The night time is the right time in the spirit world, so that’s when ghosts tend to make an appearance in the places where they met their (usually unfortunate) fates. There’s no shortage of documented hauntings in cities and towns around the country where paranormal aficionados can be on the lookout for spectral appearances, but for those ghost-seekers who also appreciate a good meal or a stiff drink, there are a slew of haunted restaurants and bars across the U.S. Head out west, where gunfights and gambling debts led to many an untimely death in local saloons or to colonial towns on the east coast where revenge or heartbreak resulted in a demise or two. These bars and restaurants are known to have ghostly residents who tend to roam the premises while patrons sip their cocktails or dig into their evening meals. So if you’re looking to add a spooky encounter to your night out—especially around Halloween—check out these haunted bars and restaurants in the U.S., where eerie apparitions could be lingering long past last call. RECOMMENDED: 👻  The most haunted hotels in America😱 The most haunted Airbnbs in the USA

If you’ve been waiting for a new spot to test your skating skills, Rosemont Village has your winter plans covered. The spectacular new 103,000-square-foot facility, located just north of Allstate Arena, features two full-size rinks—one for the pros and one for the rest of us. Youth hockey teams, figure skating clubs, adult leagues and the Chicago Mission girls’ hockey program all find a home here.

If you’ve ever wanted to live inside a Mariah Carey Christmas special, this is your moment. For the first time ever, Mariah Carey’s Holiday Bar is landing in Miami Beach, promising a “Mariahfied cocktail experience” that’s part pop-up, part wonderland and entirely extra (in the best possible way). Launching on November 20 at Ray’s Hometown Bar, expect wall-to-wall holiday décor dripping with glitter and nostalgia, festive photo ops (including a new “Queen of Christmas” homage and Santa’s Sleigh setup) and recreated backdrops from her most iconic album covers. Every 30 minutes, the unmistakable opening notes of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” will cue the room into collective holiday euphoria. The menu keeps the theme alive with festive small bites and seasonal cocktails made with Carey’s own Black Irish cream liqueur. For fans who want to take the experience home, there’s exclusive merch, vinyl copies of her holiday albums and even her newest LP, Here For It All. You can even write to the star herself at the “Letters to Mariah” station. Tickets will be available exclusively through Bucket Listers, and Miami fans can join the waitlist now for early access once reservations open. 

This lively Warehouse District favorite transforms the catch of the day into something both primal and unforgettable. The secret weapon? A massive wood-burning grill that adds a signature smoky depth to everything it touches. Whether it’s a whole fish with perfectly crisped skin, a hanger steak brightened by salsa verde, the addictive smoked tuna dip or simple sides like roasted pumpkin and grilled zucchini, fire is the common thread. Still, even the dishes that skip the grill hit just as hard. The menu changes often, but always reflects the vision of Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski and the skill of Chef de Cuisine (and James Beard semi-finalist) Nicole Mills. The raw bar highlights Gulf shrimp, local oysters and other regional gems. Longtime snacks and shareables like the smoked tuna dip, fried bread and beer-battered fish sticks (made with local brew Urban South) have earned permanent spots. The rest of the lineup leans seafood-forward, inspired by the cooking of South America, Spain and the Gulf Coast. Creative, seasonal plates like baked drum with coconut and sticky rice and jumbo shrimp with purple rice pilaf make an appearance along non-seafood selections like grilled chicken paired with brown rice congee.Everything at Pêche feels designed to be passed around the table, family-style—fitting for the always boisterous atmosphere. The lively, come-as-you-are energy extends to the bar, where seasonal cocktails show off local ingredients. Recent standouts include th

Bourbon Street is hardly the first place you’d expect to find an outpost of high-end hospitality, but The Royal Sonesta is perched proudly, right in the thick of the French Quarter’s nightlife strip.  This landmark hotel, which opened in 1969, knows how to party, but also knows when to call it a night. The façade fits right in, with wrought-iron balconies, gas lamps and flowers tumbling from railings, but behind the gates is a leafy courtyard with a pool that feels like it belongs to another world entirely. It’s a bit like New Orleans itself: chaos outside, charm inside. The Sonesta is a place where you can dive right in then retreat whenever you need a break. It’s a prime spot for visitors, but the restaurants, jazz club and on-site events draw just as many locals. If you’re staying here, get ready for a good time, both outside and inside. Why stay at the Royal Sonesta? Plenty of hotels claim to give you the ‘real’ New Orleans experience, but few put you right in the middle of it with such style. The Royal Sonesta leans into its Bourbon Street address with flair, while also serving as an oasis of polished marble, glittering chandeliers and a cool hush that dissolves the commotion outside. There’s no shade thrown towards the nightly revelry of tourists, and in fact one of the hotel’s most beloved annual traditions turns a typical nuisance—drunken revelers climbing the balconies during Carnival—into a party and competition with the annual Greasing of the Poles on the Friday be

The Warehouse District in New Orleans is often referred to as being trendy, with art galleries, hot restaurants, cocktail bars and cool lofts, so it makes sense that the Virgin Hotel is located here.  It’s a striking addition to an already buzzy neighborhood, but with its own scene that makes it a destination in its own right—including for locals. On any given day you’ll find live music, a rooftop pool party, a DJ or a drag brunch. Combine all that swanky entertainment with a good dose of style, playful design and (of course) comfort, and you’ve got a stay that’s as fun as the city itself. Why stay at the Virgin Hotel? When it debuted in 2021, Virgin Hotels New Orleans quickly cemented itself as one of the city’s most stylish stays. It strikes a balance between high-energy and laid-back, giving guests an experience that’s beyond the usual, and while you’ll no doubt spend your time seeing the sights, hearing live music and indulging in the incredible dining scene—this is New Orleans, after all—the Virgin keeps the party going once you come back. The bold design features local artists and gives a nod to both the city’s musical heritage and its flair for spectacle. The atmosphere feels less like a hotel and more like an insider’s clubhouse, and it’s where you stay if you want to experience New Orleans with a bit of polish but without losing the playful spirit that makes the Crescent City unique. What are the rooms like? Virgin Hotels calls its guest rooms ‘chambers’, and it’s ea

Since opening in 1893, this grande dame of New Orleans hotels has hosted everybody from politicians, royalty and movie stars and musicians. Now a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the property balances historic grandeur with modern comfort, offering guests a blend of opulence and ease that feels distinctly New Orleans.  The soaring lobby wows with gilded columns, glittering chandeliers and a sense of occasion, and locals regularly pass through the lobby when attending events at the nearby Saenger or Orpheum Theaters, stopping to have a drink at the famed Sazerac Bar or to reminisce about times spent in the hotel’s ballrooms and restaurants. The Roosevelt has also been a top holiday destination for generations, as the lobby is decked out each year in extravagant decorations to celebrate the season. It offers an indulgent stay in close proximity to the French Quarter, but even more than that it provides a chance to experience New Orleans through one of its most storied institutions. Why stay at The Roosevelt Hotel? The Roosevelt is a standout among typical chain hotels. It’s unique and historic, and the vibe is equal parts timeless glamour and laid-back Southern charm. The grand chandeliers, marbled floors and polished brass mingle with the hum of guests and curious visitors. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—you’re a short walk from the French Quarter, yet far enough away to retreat from the hubbub. With its lengthy history and luxurious trappings, The Roosevelt is where tradition meets ind

When you arrive at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, you really arrive. It’s set on a quiet stretch of coast on the Island of Hawaii (also known as the Big Island), and the seclusion offers the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a sense of place and tradition that goes back generations. While the location makes it possible to explore nearby highlights—Kailua-Kona town, coffee farms, historical sites, Mauna Kea—it’s remote enough that you feel like you’re stepping into a private retreat, and you won’t want to leave. It offers modern comforts alongside experiences and amenities that seamlessly incorporate customs, honoring the surrounding environment. Why stay at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort? Kona Village is relatively new, having opened in 2023, but the property’s history goes back decades and continues to be a part of local lore. Even further back? This is sacred ground, once home to Polynesian settlers who lived off the land in a thriving community. Originally opened in the 1960s by Johnno and Helen Jackson, Kona Village came to life when the couple landed their schooner New Moon at the site of the abandoned village of Kaʻūpūlehu. The Polynesian-style resort became an off‑the‑grid hot spot with no TVs, few roads and just a coconut on your door to signal ‘privacy’. Guests flew in via puddle‑jumper planes, and families returned year after year. It was a communal resort, where guests of all ages mixed and mingled, like a Hawaiian summer camp.  In 2011, a tsunami demolis

South Beach isn’t exactly known for subtlety. Neon lights, bass-heavy clubs and velvet-rope chaos are par for the course along Ocean Drive. But tucked right into the heart of the action—without feeling like it’s part of the scene—is The Betsy, a refined, art-forward boutique hotel with a whole lot of class but just enough edge to keep it rooted in the neighborhood. Built in 1942, The Betsy is one of the last remaining examples of Florida-Georgian architecture in the area, standing in bold contrast to the candy-colored Art Deco buildings surrounding it. It could easily be mistaken for Savannah, but this genteel charm is exactly the draw if you want to be part of the South Beach energy while easily being able to retreat from it. Inside is a spacious world of art and relaxation, a perfect respite from the Ocean Drive action. Why stay at The Betsy Hotel? If you’re over the South Beach party scene—but not quite ready to retire from it—The Betsy strikes a near-perfect balance. At the quieter end of Ocean Drive, The Betsy is just steps from the sand and close to the action, but removed enough to breathe. You get all the perks of the location, but inside, it’s calm, collected and downright serene. You can spend hours inside browsing the art collection, unwinding at the pools, sipping an espresso or lounging in the library and other public spaces. There’s a renowned jazz program in the bar, a destination restaurant and a cool courtyard oasis. But once you’re ready to live it up in SoB

Step off Magazine Street and into The Vintage, where velvet banquettes, antique mirrors and mismatched chandeliers pull you into a curated mix of Parisian café meets New Orleans charm.  The vibe: This chic spot is an ideal stop any time of day. During work hours, laptops and lattes rule; by night, it’s candles, charcuterie and clinking glasses. It’s elegant but laid-back, welcoming all to enjoy the atmosphere. Grab a table inside (an excellent backdrop for pics) or choose a sidewalk table where you can catch the Magazine Street buzz. The food: From coffee and pastries in the morning to sandwiches, flatbreads and small plates later in the day, The Vintage is truly an all-day cafe. Don’t miss the beignets, whether it’s an order of traditional plain or fancy versions filled with chocolate, mini beignets topped with cinnamon or seasonal options that celebrate Mardi Gras, Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Cheese boards and charcuterie plates are perfect for late-night bites with friends. The drink: Coffee is the star for the morning crowd; cold brew, lattes, cappuccinos or a simple cup are all made with lovingly-sourced beans. Later, opt for Champagne, rosé, adult coffee concoctions, unique cocktails, beers and mocktails.  Time Out tip: The Bubbles and Bites happy hour from 3-6pm is an excellent time to unwind with a glass of sparkling and a cheese board or perhaps a beignet flight.

Founded in 1983 by the late Loretta Harrison—the city’s first African-American woman to own and run a praline company—this Marigny sweet shop sells classic New Orleans pralines, pies, cookies and creative beignets, both sweet and savory. The vibe: The shop is small, bright, charming and unfussy. There are a few tables scattered around and a neon sign that welcomes you in. Friendly staff will treat you like neighbors, creating the perfect vibe for satisfying your sweet tooth. The food: The pralines are the headliners, of course. They’re chewy, nutty and rich with brown sugar. But don’t miss the stuffed beignets. Get one stuffed with praline, peanut butter and jelly, crab, shrimp, burger or fried chicken. The stuffed beignets are a favorite offering at Jazz Fest every year and won top prize at the inaugural Beignet Festival back in 2016. The drink: Pair your sweets with a fresh-brewed coffee, iced or hot, or grab a cold drink from the cooler. Time Out tip: Keep an eye out for special seasonal pralines, like pumpkin spice in the fall or rum-flavored around Mardi Gras. 

This New Orleans legend has been serving hot beignets and chicory coffee since 1862. You’ll find the iconic original spot on Decatur Street in the French Quarter, open 24/7. There's also a breezier outpost in City Park where you can enjoy your beignets under centuries-old oak trees. Café du Monde is known around the world, and while tourists flock to the green and white awning, locals are equally enamored.  The vibe: The French Quarter location is chaotic in the best way. The open-air patio is lively and buzzing with activity at all hours, as servers in white shirts and black bow ties flit from table to table. Car and foot traffic flows by on Decatur Street, and there’s usually a street performer or two entertaining from the sidewalk.  The food: Café du Monde is about beignets and beignets only. An order of three with a mountain of powdered sugar is all you need. They’re crispy on the outside, pillowy on the inside. If you’re not covered in powdered sugar by the time you’re done, you’re not doing it right. Just don’t wear black. The drink: Order a café au lait made with their signature dark-roast coffee and chicory. It’s the classic accompaniment, available iced for those hot summer days. Time Out tip: You’ll get the full experience by sitting at a table, but you can also head to the takeout window for a to-go order. Head across the street to the river to enjoy while watching the ships go by. Be sure to take a peek around the side of the building where you can watch the beign

Brennan’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves indulgence, history and a touch of Southern charm. It's also the birthplace of Bananas Foster, the famed dessert that's flambeed tableside. Breakfast service is legendary, featuring iconic dishes like eggs Hussarde and eggs Sardou. The pastel-pink facade and lush courtyard make for the perfect NOLA backdrop, and the chandeliers, white-tablecloth service and lengthy history make Brennan's a timeless New Orleans tradition where every meal feels like a celebration.

If you rely on the State/Lake L stop, start planning for an alternative. The station, one of the Loop’s oldest and busiest elevated stations, is about to close for a full restoration that's expected to take three years to complete. According to a press release, the over-100-year-old stop will close on January 5, 2026, for a full teardown and rebuild that will run until 2029. The project will result in a modern, accessible hub with wider platforms, elevators, a glass canopy and new lighting. What riders can expect Once the station shuts down, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink and Purple Line trains will skip the stop. Riders will need to use nearby options like Washington/Wabash or Clark/Lake. The underground Lake Red Line stop will help fill the gap too. If you depend on buses along State Street, service will continue but some temporary reroutes are possible as crews begin the early demolition prep. Be prepared for surprise detours once the project begins. What drivers and pedestrians can expect The disruption will affect streets and sidewalks as well. Eastbound Lake Street between State and Wabash will see intermittent closures starting December 8. The closures will take place mostly during non-peak hours, but will likely have a ripple effect through adjacent streets. Construction staging, equipment and a steady flow of workers mean the area will be more crowded. Pedestrians should expect tighter walkways, temporary barriers and added construction noise. Nothing out of the ordinary

Washington Heights just got even more colorful. The city cut the ribbon on the new Audubon Plaza, an almost 11,000 square foot pedestrian zone between 165th and 166th Streets that has transformed a once ordinary stretch of Audubon Avenue into a bright, bustling public hangout. The highlight is De Lo Mio, a sweeping asphalt mural by local artist Talisa Almonte. It's a tribute to Dominican culture, and in Washington Heights that means it's also a tribute to the community itself. The work pulls from Liliana Mera Limé’s iconic Muñeca Sin Rostro and threads in plátanos, dominoes and the warm patterns tied to kitchens, living rooms and sidewalk tables from Santo Domingo to St. Nicholas Avenue. Photograph: Courtesy NYC DOT The plaza is stocked with tables and chairs, books, bike corrals and open space that will play host to everything from pop-up classes to weekend domino tournaments. It builds on the neighborhood’s Open Streets program that launched in the summer of 2024. That program turned several blocks of Audubon Avenue into a seasonal, car-free stretch featuring kids’ activities, music and bustling street life. The new plaza makes will feel just like that year-round. Photograph: Courtesy NYC DOT On opening day, Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez called Audubon Plaza a community hub. "Public art enlivens our shared spaces to be places of connection and joy, and Audubon Plaza stands as testament to the transformative power of Open Streets in cel

For business travelers who spend a good amount of time in airports, comfort, efficiency, accessibility, lounges and dining options are important when choosing where and how to fly. So Corporate Traveler's  just-published Business Travel Airport Guide, which highlights the best airports for business travel, is a Bible of sorts. The company surveyed 100 travel managers across the U.S., each with an average of eight years in the industry, to pinpoint the airports that make business trips smoother. Security efficiency topped the list of priorities, with nearly half of respondents saying it is the most important amenity, but dining plays an important role for travelers who need a restful, nourishing break during their trips. After all, a good restaurant or a dependable lounge can make the difference between getting to your destination focused or frazzled.  According to the guide, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the best overall U.S. airport for business travel, but also the best for dining. The facility is huge, and it uses that size to its advantage. Options stretch from quick Southern comfort fare to polished sit-down meals where you can squeeze in a quiet half hour. For travelers making tight connections, reliable quality rather than trends are important, and ATL delivers that consistency. At number two is Chicago O'Hare International Airport. O’Hare leans into Chicago's identity as a food city with upgraded local concepts, dependable grab-and-go and enough

New York City is endlessly photogenic and a recent study has the data to prove it. Covers.com editor-in-chief James Bisson analyzed millions of Instagram posts and confirmed what locals already know. Five of America’s twenty most photographed places are right here in the city, more than any other town in the country. While Disneyland and Walt Disney World take the top two spots, Central Park is the number three most photographed place in the country with 8.47 million tagged posts. This park is beautiful any time of year and, no matter the weather, someone is lining up a shot of Bow Bridge with skyscrapers hovering behind it or stitching a panorama from the edge of Wollman Rink. With 4.5 million posts, the Empire State Building takes the number five spot. It rises into view long before you reach 34th Street, an iconic example of American architecture. Visitors reliably step out into the street for a quick upward telephoto shot. The Brooklyn Bridge, at number ten with 4 million posts, offers the sort of dramatic shots that draw professional and amateur photographers alike. From sunset photo overlooking lower Manhattan to views framing the Empire State Building, Instagrammers can't get enough. The Statue of Liberty is a landmark that seems impossible to shoot poorly. The 2.4 million posts that earn it the number 16 spot include shots from the ferry, golden hour shots that give Lady Liberty an extra glow and shots with Lower Manhattan in the background, all capturing the symbolis

If you're single and searching, your chances of finding love might depend on where you live. WalletHub just dropped its 2026 ranking of the best and worst cities for singles, and it paints quite a picture of dating options across the country. Nearly 46% of all U.S. adults are unmarried and the cost of dating is getting more expensive. The hunt for a decent match now comes with real financial stakes. WalletHub compared 182 cities using 35 metrics, including the share of the single population, online dating access, nightlife and the cost of a night out (dinner for two, a movie, a bottle of wine). While some cities are affordable playgrounds for singles, some make the task more difficult than it already is. Let’s start with the bad news. At the very bottom of the list is Port St. Lucie, Florida, the worst city in the U.S. for dating. Port St. Lucie is closely followed by Hialeah, Florida; Yonkers, New York; Pearl City, Hawaii and Brownsville, Texas. These cities share a common problem: they lag across the board, from limited date-night options to weak online dating opportunities and pricey or inconvenient places to go on a date. Diving deeper into the data, Garland, Texas, claims the fewest nightlife spots. Miami may be packed with clubs, but it ranks lowest in online dating opportunities. Jackson, Mississippi has the lowest gender balance among single people. Fremont, California has the smallest share of singles altogether. And if you want to keep costs under control, here are

NYC is a beautiful place to be for the holidays, but if you're traveling to or from the city this Christmas, prepare for some hassle. A new national study has crowned the city the worst place in America for holiday travel. Researchers at Duelbits ranked the 50 most populous U.S. cities across eight factors tied to holiday travel, including traffic time, rush hour delays, accident rates, flight performance, tire trouble, road quality and the chance of snow. New York scored 8.9 out of 10, putting the town firmly in first place. Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Miami round out the unfortunate top five, but New York comes out on top by a full half point. Traffic is the city’s main issue. Drivers in New York lose an average of 30 percent extra time to congestion. They also lose an average of 98 hours each year to rush hour. That is the longest delay in the entire study and 61 hours more than the national average. Anyone who has tried to cross midtown during peak holiday season will understand. If you're flying into the city for the holidays, stay flexible. Only 62.51 percent of flights arrive in New York on time, the fourth lowest rate in the country. Even worse, 7.82 percent of flights are cancelled outright, the highest cancellation rate. Add the city’s 13.2 percent chance of snow on Christmas and you have a recipe for delays. NYC drivers have more than just traffic to worry about. The city sees 22.81 Google searches per 10,000 people each month for "how to change a tire.

After a 2025 washout, Bonnaroo is back in 2026 from June 11 to 14 with a stacked lineup featuring major headliners, buzzy newcomers, a bit of nostalgia and a few surprises. Organizers have a slew of upgrades on tap, setting the stage for a knockout return to form. Skrillex will kick things off with an "epic" welcome party on Thursday, while Noah Kahan will anchor the Sunday finale. Taking the stages between those giants is an unforgettable lineup that includes Turnstile, Teddy Swims, Kesha, The Neighbourhood, Vince Staples, Rüfüs Du Sol, Role Model, The Strokes, Blues Traveler and dozens more. There's even a "Bigger and Weirder Saturday Late Night Roovue" set by none other than Weird Al Yankovic, and this year's Superjam—officially titled "Superjam Esoterica: The Alchemy of Pop"—is curated by Kesha. Diving deeper into the lineup that includes more than 100 artists, other standouts include Alabama Shakes, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist, Major Lazer, Mt. Joy, Yungblud, Jessie Murph and Blood Orange. Modest Mouse, Japanese Breakfast, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Role Model will close out the weekend alongside Kahan. Ushering in a new era of Bonnaroo will be new drainage, fresh turf, miles of internal roads and the removal of flood prone campsites that should alleviate any weather-related worries. When is Bonnaroo? Bonnaroo 2026 takes place over four days, from June 11 to 14, 2026. Where is Bonnaroo? The festival takes place in Manchester, Tennesse

The MetroCard is on its way out. As much as this flimsy ticket may have annoyed us, it's helped millions of us get around the city every day. As residents and visitors prepare to swipe for the final time, the New York Transit Museum is giving the card a proper sendoff with a new exhibit called "FAREwell, MetroCard" (see what they did there?), opening on December 17 in Brooklyn. The exhibit covers the full journey of the little yellow card that changed how the city moved. When the item launched in 1994, the goal was simple: retire the cumbersome token for something more fitting for the modern era. The show explores how that idea grew from clunky magnetic stripe prototypes into the systemwide rollout that reshaped the daily commute. Through early pilot brochures, SubTalk ads and photos of the first activated turnstiles, you'll realize how much work went into convincing riders to trust the new system. But the museum uncovers more than just the MetroCard's straightforward history. Did you know about a proposed mascot named the Cardvaark? He never made it into stations, but his merch-ready charm now lives on in the museum. A 1997 prototype of the MetroCard vending machine offers another blast from the past. The design team at Antenna Design used simple color cues like green for cash and yellow for the card to guide riders long before touchscreens became standard. The exhibit also celebrates the MetroCard as a cultural object. View limited edition designs honoring David Bowie, Worl

Holiday shopping in Miami always comes with something extra, and the Aventura Mall is no exception: Labubu fans are already losing their minds over Pop Mart's temporary setup. The global giant behind those massively-hyped collectibles just opened a limited-time holiday shop on the mall's lower level. The pop-up runs for seven weeks and marks the brand’s first appearance in the region. If your heart beats a little faster at the word Labubu, it's time to head to the mall. View this post on Instagram A post shared by POP MART North America (@popmart_us) Pop Mart is famous for two things: adorable designer toys and the thrill of surprise. Their blind boxes are all the rage, as collectors line up to take a gamble, only finding out which character they've scored after the box is opened. Now you can feel that rush right here in Miami. The Pop Mart Holiday Gift Shop will be stocked with favorites like The Monsters, Skullpanda, Peach Riot and more. Labubus, of course, are the highlight. The wide-eyed creatures already have a devoted following, and seeing them dressed in festive fits will make for next-level holiday cheer. Along with the core collection, Pop Mart has stocked limited edition Labubus created just for the season. Newcomers will surely get swept up in the excitement, but longtime collectors won't want to miss out either. And if you can't get enough Labubus, know that other shops are getting in on the action. Candy Plush Cotton Candy is selling Labubu cotton

Robb Report just dropped its ranking of the 100 Greatest American Restaurants of the 21st Century, and Chicago not only makes a strong showing with nine spots on the list, but perennial favorite Alinea secured the number one spot. The list was voted on by a jury of 250 chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, ingredient obsessives and diners who know their way around a tasting menu. Voters weighed experience, influence, staying power and a sense of greatness that makes a restaurant more than a place to eat. Alinea, the Chicago institution that has been redefining what dinner can be since 2005, is more than deserving of the top spot. Where else can you dine on a floating apple taffy balloon or a translucent cube that somehow tastes exactly like a Chicago dog? Alinea opened in Lincoln Park with a mission to push boundaries and was immediately hailed as a revelation. Young cooks flocked to work there, and the kitchen became a training ground for a new generation of chefs who see food as both craft and theater. In 2006, American chef and food writer Ruth Reichl dubbed it the best restaurant in America.  Two decades in, Alinea is still staging world class culinary theater, whether at home in Chicago or during residencies in cities like Miami, Beverly Hills and Tokyo. As restaurateur Ellia Park recounts in the official report, "I will never forget the cultural shock I experienced during my first visit to Alinea. Calling it simply a restaurant feels inadequate—it was more like a magical sp

Wendy’s has never been shy about chasing a popular trend, and their latest promotion is riding the 6-7 wave that's become a nightmare for all of us over the age of 13. The chain's Black Friday deal—announced in a cringy post on Instagram—featured a classic small Frosty for just 67 cents. But like the 6-7 trend itself, this deal isn't going away just yet. You can still get the discounted Frosty through Sunday, December 7. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wendy’s (@wendys) "Six seven," for those who haven't been subjected to the annoying outbursts that mark this latest trend, started in late 2024 with Skrilla’s track "Doot Doot (6 7)." It then morphed into a reference to LaMelo Ball's height and is now basically a nonsensical phrase that preteens shout so often that Dictionary.com crowned it the Word of the Year for 2025. But who needs a back story when you can get a delicious Frosty for 67 cents? It's a straightforward, no-nonsense treat. The catch is that you can only get one by ordering online at Wendys.com or through the Wendy's app.And the deal is only available through December 7. Wendy's isn't the only chain to hop on the 6-7 train. Earlier this month, Domino's offered a large one-topping pizza for $6.70. Pizza Hut played along too, with boneless wings for 67 cents on November 6 and 7. Fast food marketing teams have clearly decided that if the kids want "6 7," they will give them "6 7," as long as it pairs well with something hot, cold or cove

If you're traveling for Thanksgiving, be sure to pack your patience. Bickering family members won't be the only headache this holiday weekend: AccuWeather’s latest forecast paints a messy picture for millions of travelers this week, with thunderstorms, fog, flooding rain, high winds and even a blizzard all on the horizon. Fog, severe storms and downpours have already slowed parts of the South Central states and the northern Rockies this week. Unfortunately, the slowdown spreads on Tuesday as two storm systems will move east and north. The Southern storm will weaken as it reaches the Northeast, but it will still bring gusty thunderstorms, rain-soaked roads and low visibility. That combination is enough to trigger delays on highways and at major airports. “Many families traveling in the eastern half of the country will likely encounter delays and disruptions before the end of the weekend. A record number of travelers combined with two large storms before and then after Thanksgiving Day is a recipe for trouble,” AccuWeather Vice President of Forecasting Operations Dan DePodwin said. The Southeast faces the highest risk of disruptive weather on Tuesday. Heavy and locally severe storms will stretch from eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina to Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. Expect downpours to roll through the Interstate 85 corridor, leading to possible ground stops at airports in Atlanta and New Orleans. Farther north, the bigger problem is snow