Gerrish Lopez

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. 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.

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

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.

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.

Giordano's is on a roll with its tribute pizzas. The pizza icon recently celebrated the legendary Bears of the 80s with Da Pizza, and now they're honoring the legendary Derrick Rose on the occasion of his jersey retirement with a brand new, limited-edition pie. Dubbed the M-V-Pizza, the new pie is a Giordano's salute to the youngest MVP in NBA history and one of the city's most influential figures in sports. The M-V-Pizza celebrates the Chicago native's hefty career with the Bulls by stacking two layers of Giordano's signature pepperoni and topping it all off with a drizzle of homemade Calabrian hot honey. "Derrick Rose represents the heart of Chicago—resilience, loyalty and perseverance," said Meghan Parra, director of marketing and public relations for Giordano's, in an official statement. "With the M-V-Pizza, we wanted to honor his legacy in a way only Giordano's can: with a pizza that is full of Chi-town flavor and worthy of a true MVP." The pizza comes in all of Giordano's standard formats: Stuffed Deep Dish, Traditional Thin Crust and Tavern-Style. Dine-in guests can order it "MVP Style," which gets you a parmesan-stenciled number "1" for Rose's jersey number on top of the deep dish version. "Our goal was to create a pizza that lives up to this cultural moment," said Executive Chef Jesse Harris. "The double pepperoni brings classic intensity, while our homemade Calabrian hot honey adds an unexpected kick, creating an electrifying combination, just like Derrick’s game."

For years, Florida has dominated the charts when it comes to lightning. Weather patters around the sunny state kick off regular thunderstorms, especially in the summer. But, according the annual lightning report produced by environmental data firm AEM, another state is now the lightning capital of the U.S.: Oklahoma. In 2025, Oklahoma recorded roughly 73 lightning flashes per square mile, the highest concentration in the nation. This change points to a broader shift in severe weather patterns across the country, with the Great Plains emerging as a new epicenter for high-impact storms. "Oklahoma’s rise to the top of our lightning rankings represents a significant shift in 2025’s weather patterns compared with past years," said Elizabeth DiGangi, a lightning scientist at AEM, in an official statement. Advances in lightning detection technology, she noted, now make it easier to see how and where storm behavior is evolving. The data behind the report comes from AEM’s Earth Networks Total Lightning Network, which uses more than 1,800 sensors across the United States to track lightning activity in real time. In total, the network detected nearly 430 million lightning pulses within 88.4 million lightning flashes nationwide in 2025, a nearly 10 percent increase from the year before. Florida's downgrade doesn't mean the state suddenly became storm-free. The state was drier than average last year, in part because most Atlantic hurricanes never made it to land. Oklahoma, on the other ha

Starting today, you might end up with a special quarter when you get your change back. The first commemorative quarter for the nation’s 250th anniversary is officially in circulation. The U.S. Mint will be rolling out a full lineup of coins to mark America's semiquincentennial. The commemorative designs were revealed back in December and will appear on quarters, dimes and nickels. And, yes, they're real, spendable money. The quarter will be minted with five different designs and will be released over the course of the coming year. Each quarter highlights a foundational moment or text in American history. The first quarter, hitting cash registers around the country today, is the Mayflower Compact Quarter. On its front are two Pilgrims representing the 1620 agreement that established the colony at Plymouth. The reverse features the Mayflower itself, along with an inscription that says "Mayflower Compact." Future quarters will spotlight the Revolutionary War, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Gettysburg Address. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Abraham Lincoln will appear on the obverse. The reverse designs range from a soldier at Valley Forge to the Liberty Bell to two clasped hands beneath the words "A New Nation Conceived in Liberty." All five quarters share the usual inscriptions, including "E Pluribus Unum" and "In God We Trust." The coins will also be inscribed with "1776 ~ 2026," a non-traditional display of two years rat

In today's world, people eat publicly. Did you even try Dubai chocolate if you didn't post about it on social media? In New York especially, thousands of famous local foods are photographed and posted every day, from pizza and bagels to cheesecake and sushi. Turns out that, according to new social media analysis from Nations Photo Lab, some dishes are far more hashtag-worthy than than others. Pizza, unsurprisingly, is the ruler of the NYC food feed. Across Instagram and TikTok, #nycpizza has racked up more than half a million Instagram posts alone. It’s the city’s most photographed food by a landslide. But it's not just the pizza, it's where it's from. Upon further analysis, the study reveals that Brooklyn comes out on top as the most tagged pizza location, beating Manhattan more than two to one. L’Industrie Pizzeria, in Williamsburg, is the standout, name-checked repeatedly by users chasing the perfect slice and the perfect photo to go with it. Second place in the food photo popularity contest goes to cheesecake. While it doesn’t quite match pizza’s numbers, #nyccheesecake still boasts hundreds of thousands of posts, most of them on Instagram. Queens is the top spot for cheesecake, proving that some of the city’s best food can be found outside Manhattan. Jackson Heights favorites like Lety’s Bakery and Cafe and Cannelle Patisserie are among the most tagged cheesecakes. Sushi rounds out the top three food faves, as #nycsushi pulls in nearly 85,000 posts across platforms. Manh

A city can never have too many ice cream shops, and Miami's newest one is a European sensation. Myka, the Greek yogurt ice cream brand from Madrid with a cult following across Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, just opened its first-ever U.S. location inside the historic Lincoln Theatre on Lincoln Road. Photograph: Courtesy Lemon Pop Myka isn’t straight up frozen yogurt, but it’s not traditional ice cream either. The brand works with premium yogurt imported weekly from Greece, then blended with pasteurized milk and high-end kefir. The result is dense, creamy and slightly tangy, with the protein and probiotic benefits of the yogurt intact with no artificial additives. It's a delicious dessert you can absolutely justify. Photograph: Courtesy Myka/Rivani Founded in Madrid by chef Natalia Morales and entrepreneur Javier Ezquerro, Myka started as a small artisanal concept and quickly took off. In less than two years, it’s expanded to more than 175 franchises across 16 countries. Miami gets the honor of being first in the U.S. Freshness and customization are key to its success. Every Myka location includes an in-store workshop, where the ice cream and toppings are made fresh daily. There are more than 30 toppings to choose from, including handmade crumbles, fruit compotes, granolas and their standout baklava. Bases range from their classic Greek frozen yogurt to rotating seasonal flavors and fruit sorbets that are vegan and lactose-free. Photograph: Courtesy Myka/Rivan

How will Americans travel in 2026? According to new analysis from claim compensation experts AirAdvisor, the year ahead won’t be about big, bucket list splurges or extended itineraries. It will be about trips that deliver in the face of limited time, rising airfares and all-too-frequent endless delays. U.S. travelers will be adjusting their expectations, choosing destinations and styles of travel that can absorb disruption without ruining the experience. The biggest trend emerging from this shift, according to AirAdvisor, is what they call "Domestic Europe." Rather than flying across the Atlantic, travelers are looking for places closer to home that offer the perks and pleasures they associate with European destinations: walkability, slower days, strong food cultures and a vibe that lets you have a good time without a packed itinerary. These Euro-like destinations include small cities like Santa Fe, where art, history and long, culturally-inspired meals are the focus. Savannah and Charleston, with their compact historic districts, unique architecture and European style café culture offer the opportunity to simply wander and discover without worrying about driving or public transportation. Santa Barbara and Carmel boast coastal scenery, wine, renowned restaurants and a rhythm that's pure vacation. Even New England’s coastal towns are seeing renewed interest for their charming village centers, seafood shacks and easy day-to-day pacing (not to mention actual resemblance to Europ

CORRECTION: This article has been updated to remove an incorrect reference to free New Year's Eve fireworks at Brooklyn Bridge Park. It's time to say goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026. There are plenty of parties and other New Year's Eve events across NYC, but there's nothing like ringing in the new year with a bang—a spectacular fireworks show, that is. While the Times Square ball drop gets all the attention, it's not the only way to celebrate in the city. If you're looking for great views of fireworks without the massive crowds, here are the best places to watch New Year's Eve fireworks in NYC for free. Prospect Park For more than 45 years, Brooklyn has welcomed the new year with a free community celebration at Prospect Park. Hosted by the Prospect Park Alliance, the night usually kicks off around 10pm with live music, followed by a full fireworks display at midnight. The crowd is lively but relaxed, with plenty of space compared to Manhattan hotspots. For the best views, stake out a spot near Grand Army Plaza or along Prospect Park West. It’s festive, local and low-stress. Brooklyn Heights Promenade Just uphill from DUMBO, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade offers a postcard-perfect perspective. You can often spot multiple fireworks displays across the harbor, with the Statue of Liberty and downtown skyline in view. It’s perfect if you want space to stroll while you wait for midnight. Central Park Central Park’s New Year’s Eve fireworks launch from around 72nd Street, coincidi

For years, the McCormick & Schmick’s at 1 East Wacker Drive was a dependable Loop fixture for business lunches and celebratory meals. This week, the steakhouse abruptly closed. McCormick & Schmick’s sudden shuttering happened as the restaurant's lease expired, catching both employees and regulars off guard. Landry’s Hospitality, the parent company, confirmed the shutdown and said it’s working to place affected staff at nearby sister restaurants, including Morton’s The Steakhouse, The Palm and Mastro’s Steakhouse. "We are grateful to our dedicated team members and the loyal guests who have supported this location over the years," COO Shah Ghani said in a statement, according to NBC Chicago. "It has been an honor to serve the Chicago community." The closure is jarring but in a way unsurprising. The Loop is still finding its footing years after the pandemic and restaurants built around office crowds and business travel have taken a hit. McCormick & Schmick’s was very much one of those places. When offices emptied and expense-account dinners fell by the wayside, restaurants suffered. Steakhouses in particular have struggled to adapt to new routines. The eateries usually rely on in-person dining, special occasions and corporate meals. As office attendance remains uneven, business travel is still below pre-2020 levels and diners are cutting back on big meals, the development isn't that shocking. Add to it the fact that more than half of consumers say they plan to spend less on eati

Port Canaveral in Central Florida port has officially become the busiest cruise port in the world, edging out longtime heavyweight PortMiami. It's the second time the cruise port has earned the distinction. According to newly released figures, Port Canaveral welcomed 8.6 million cruise passengers in fiscal year 2025. That number narrowly tops PortMiami’s 8.5 million, but the gap is big enough to crown a clear winner. The number also reflects a 13 percent jump from the port’s passenger totals just one year ago, making this the busiest year in Port Canaveral’s history. The last time Port Canaveral beat out PortMiami was in 2022, when many companies were still recovering from the pandemic. Port Canaveral sits just east of Orlando, closer to theme parks than nightclubs, and for years it played second fiddle to Miami’s glitzy port. But Port Canaveral has quietly become America’s favorite homeport, especially for families and drive-to cruisers who value convenience over flash. The port operates six cruise terminals serving seven major cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Carnival. It’s currently homeport to 18 ships, with more than 1,000 sailings a year leaving its docks. About 75 percent of passengers drive themselves to the port, thanks to adjacent parking and terminals designed to move people quickly from car to cabin. Port CEO Capt. John Murray credited the milestone to long-term focus rather than overnight success, pointing to strong partnerships wit

If chocolate is your love language, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden has a festival for you. This January, the lush Coral Gables landmark will host its 19th Annual A Festival of Chocolate, a two-day celebration that turns the 83-acre garden into a cocoa-fueled playground. Taking place on January 24 and 25, the festival is an immersive and delicious experience devoted to all things chocolate. Stroll past palm trees and rare tropical plants with a handcrafted truffle in hand, pop in on a live cooking demo or enjoy a tasting that pairs rich dark chocolate with bourbon. It's more than just an indulgent day out, it's also educational. At the heart of the weekend is the Artisan Chocolate Marketplace, where premier local and international chocolatiers set up shop. Browse inventive bonbons, bars and desserts that go far beyond your average chocolate treat. This is your chance to sample everything from single-origin cacao to creative, unexpected flavor combos. If you're looking to get more hands-on, you can sign up for workshops and demos led by chefs and chocolate pros. These sessions dive into the history, science and ethics of cacao, tracing its journey from rainforest crop to finished confection. There’s also The Candy BAR, where you can create custom treats of your own. For adults 21 and over, the festival offers optional ticketed experiences that include bourbon and chocolate pairings, mini chocolate martini flights and cocktail tastings designed to highlight how well cacao pla

Forget fireworks, the new year is starting with a different kind of bang in the night sky, courtesy of Mother Nature. This weekend brings January’s full wolf moon, which also happens to be a supermoon, alongside the annual Quadrantid meteor shower. The catch is that the moon’s glow will steal some of the spotlight from the meteors. But with the right timing and expectations, there’s plenty worth stepping outside for. Here’s how to see the supermoon and the meteor shower this weekend from all across the U.S.. What is a supermoon? A supermoon is a full moon that occurs when the moon is closest to Earth in its orbit, a point known as perigee. The timing results in a moon that looks noticeably bigger and brighter than usual. In this case, it can appear up to 14 percent larger and about 30 percent brighter than a micromoon, which is when the moon is farthest away from Earth. January’s full moon is called the wolf moon, a name tied to increased wolf howling during midwinter, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. When to see this weekend's supermoon The wolf supermoon reaches peak illumination around 5am ET on Saturday, January 3. You don’t need to be up at dawn to enjoy it, however. With clear skies, the moon will look full and bright from the evening of January 2 through the morning of January 3. For the most dramatic view, plan to watch during moonrise or moonset, around sunset and sunrise. How to see this weekend's supermoon This is the easiest sky event to catch. You don’t nee

New Year's Eve in Los Angeles doesn't have to involve traffic, circling for parking or dealing with surging ride share prices. Ring in 2026 cheaply (and safely) by catching a ride on the Metro. Rides will be free across the entire system on New Year's Eve, and extended service throughout the night means you can keep the party going into the wee hours. Starting at 4am on Wednesday, December 31, Metro fares are completely waived through 3am on January 1, 2026. Rail station fare gates will be unlatched and buses won’t collect fares, so your TAP card can sit this one out. Free rides on the Metro have become an annual tradition. New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year, and fewer cars on the road means less congestion, safer streets and a greener way to celebrate. It also makes party hopping far easier, whether you’re bouncing between downtown countdowns, heading to fireworks or making a late-night dash for tacos before the clock strikes midnight. Metro is also extending service so you don’t have to rush home early. Four major rail lines will run 24 hours straight through New Year’s Eve and into New Year’s Day: the A, B, D and E Lines. That means continuous service connecting Long Beach, downtown LA, Hollywood, Koreatown, Santa Monica and plenty of stops in between. Other lines are staying up late, too. The C and K Lines will operate until 2am, which is especially helpful if you’re traveling through Inglewood, South LA, Carson or LAX-adjacent areas. Overnight OWL bu