Thursday, February 5, 2015

My First Love: Tulane

My First Love

Lara Fernandez



         This is not an article about my first love with a boy (since I haven’t gotten there yet), nor is it about my undeniable love for my pups (Whiskey and Martini, my parents named them I swear) but rather my love for what my life revolves around today, Tulane. The place that makes me so happy I can never stop smiling; the place where I feel most myself; the place that has engraved itself into my heart; my home, my love, Tulane University.  We have now been together for a little over six months and I can truly say this love of ours is eternal. That sounds overdramatic but really, I fit the checklist of being in love according Wikihow and let's be honest it's always right.
First, I can’t picture a future without Tulane or at least without NOLA in my life. When I think about the idea of one day having to move on, it breaks my heart. Sorry Mom and Dad, I may just never leave college. Second, I think about Tulane everyday and every minute of the day. I reflect on how beautiful the university is and how grateful I am to have ended up here, in this picturesque campus, inhabited with diverse wonderful people. When I am separated from my love, I catch myself drifting off, fantasizing about Tulane and how I wish I could just be back there. Third, Tulane and New Orleans’ imperfections are what make them so flawless in my eyes. The authenticity that they have is made up by several factors such as the beautiful Spanish moss’s roots breaking into the sidewalks and the Tulane buildings being historic, at least in my youthful perspective. For example, Sharp Hall, the Freshman dorm I reside in, has been here since my Grandfather graduated in the 1960s (don’t worry. improvements have been made). The history of the city and school reminds of why people keep coming back, because it was as amazing then as it is now. Together the city and University have survived a variety of controversy over time, but that has only made them stronger. When I am back home in Miami and discussing college with my friend,s the subject of negative qualities of our universities arises and I have no way to respond but to shrug my shoulders and say in a questioning tone, “The doors are heavy?”
I love Tulane and I know it loves me, but I also gladly accept that it’s not a monogamous relationship. Each student and faculty member shares the same relationship with Tulane as I do. Tulane and its "Tulanians" create an aura that can be felt all around the campus, even by outsiders. It is a non-judgmental, optimistic, and exciting vibe that inspires and motivates individuals. 

Monday, January 19, 2015

Freshman Year - Second Semester

Freshman Year - Second Semester

Shelby Strattan



So the freshman year saga continues. From the first week of school to the first week of second semester (where did the time go…), my love for New Orleans and Tulane grows exponentially as I meet new classmates, get to know my friends here on a more personal level, and experience this beautiful city in its entirety - not to mention making it through the first round of finals. Everyday is something new, and the excitement of each adventure makes it seem as though time is nonexistent. Until I look at my calendar. *GASP* The time is passing entirely too quickly here at Tulane, so I’d like to share with all of you prospective students, interested readers, or my mom and dad who may be the only people that actually care about the content of this blog, just how us students spend our precious minutes of each day.

RESIDENTIAL LIFE

        The people in your residence hall, particularly those on your floor, get a lot face time. And by that I mean you see them ALL THE TIME. This isn't always the case, but in a large and very social dorm, people are always looking to hang out, which is rather convenient with a common room. All freshman residence halls have their own perks, but I am rather obviously biased towards Monroe as it is my current home. From the very first week, my floor has developed a strong, family-like bond. We all had the opportunity to get to know each other through our large common room that separates the girls’ side from the boys’ side. Not all floors have common rooms, but those that do are filled with floormates doing homework, unwinding, watching TV, or my personal favorite - eating food. What kind of food? Everything you would ever expect from college freshman: Ramen, Easy Mac, Papa Johns delivery, etc. We are an exceedingly eclectic mix of students; from New Orleans natives to football players to Paul Tulane scholars to semi-professional Irish dancers - our floor sums up the definition of the most random group of kids ever thrown together on one floor. And we somehow made it work. We have movie nights, go to concerts, and frequent Bruff together. Wait…what is Bruff?        

DINING

        Bruff is our on-campus cafeteria that is open from 7am-10pm most days. Convenient, right? Most freshman and some sophomores have a meal plan that allow them to swipe into Bruff anywhere from 1 - ∞ times a day (unlimited meal plans!!!!). Bruff offers a wide variety of options, both healthy and not, and you can always find something new. They have Milkshake Mondays and other special events such as Tabasco Day in which they gave out free prizes and special foods made with Tabasco products, and Cram Jam - a finals week favorite. However, eating in the same location, no matter how many options they provide, gets a little old from time to time, so my friends and I enjoy venturing off campus to try new restaurants. Whether its a snack or a five course meal, we are always enthusiastic about eating delicious and authentic New Orleans food. Some of the places we have ventured to include Sucre, Maple Street Deli, Amici, Arana, Lil Tokyo, Satsuma, and Commander’s Palace. But, my absolute favorite eatery I have visited (multiple times…) is District Donuts. The ornately decorated, and oh so tasty, hand-crafted pastries make for a truly life changing experience.
District Donuts


SO… WHAT ELSE?

        Let’s see… Directly across from campus is Audubon Park. Students love going here to run, lay out, play frisbee, or just lounge. The pond, surrounding tress, and beautiful landscape make for a beautiful atmosphere to relax in. The Audubon Zoo and golf course are also located here for those interested. The fairly temperate, warm weather allows for outdoor activities, festivals, parades, etc year round. At the beginning of the year, there was a large parade and celebration for Southern Decadence. With the high spirits, jocose dispositions, and colorful costumes all around, it was hard for anyone within miles to be in a sour mood. Voodoo Music Festival is another very popular event that occurred on Halloween weekend this year. During each of the three days there were unique live performances, beautiful light shows, and the an undeniable sense of unity through music for all art lovers alike. Aside from a few of my favorite bands (Zedd, Skrillex, Arctic Monkeys), Voodoo supplied fantastic food vendors from all over the country, cute local boutique tents, and eerie halloween decorations. The most recent festival I’ve been to however, was the Po Boy Festival on Oak Street. The street was blocked off and local food vendors lined the sidewalks, ready for all hungry students, locals, and tourists. Local bands played on several stages throughout the area as people munched on the famous New Orleans sandwiches. This next semester, I look forward to Mardi Gras and many other festivals!

At beautiful Audubon Park!

Southern Decadence festival

SCHOOL WORK

        Aside from all the fun and quirky things we do in New Orleans, we also spend a good deal of time in class and completing our assigned homework. There are countless places on campus to study that provide a different atmosphere to fit everyone’s study preferences. When you need a break (on Monday and Thursdays), theWell has excellent masseuses come in for two hours and give students free five minute massages. Ahhhh-mazing right? Additionally, the majority of professors make themselves so readily available to assist with any questions students may have, so many students meet with their teachers outside of class for supplemental instruction. Tulane students pride themselves on hard work, integrity, and academic originality. We are a creative and innovative body that supports each individual and group and their respective goals. We collaborate effectively in all aspects to accomplish academic excellence and social success, which is why when you can’t find us in the library, we are off exploring and simultaneously learning about our surrounding community, interests, and forming life long bonds - a holistic NOLA experience that goes hand in hand with that of the classroom.

Friday, January 16, 2015

Rushing a Fraternity at Tulane

Rushing a fraternity at Tulane is extremely low-key and stress free. In keeping with the Big Easy, the process is slow and laidback. The rush process formally begins in the fall, with each chapter having a minimum of two highly publicized, formal rush events. Beyond those two events, if a student has interest in a specific fraternity it is up to them to maintain contact with brothers. Usually, this entails anything from a BBQ to stopping by a tailgate tent. Bids are then officially given out in the spring after a few more formal rush events.

There are so many opportunities to get involved at Tulane that Greek life is really not a necessity. As such, first year students have time to get their bearings and explore the school without being restricted to one group of people. This is completely different from anything that you’ll hear about a big southern state school, where you need to arrive on day one with a clear cut idea of who you want to rush, and what connections will facilitate your efforts.

The stereotypes about frat bros DO NOT apply here. Seriously. Everyone is so involved that if a person is in a fraternity, they’re likely participating in a host of other clubs and organizations as well.

Ultimately, if you’re even slightly considering Greek life I highly recommend checking out a few formal rush events and keeping an open mind. Life in the Crescent City is exciting, and joining a fraternity could be one more route not only into the local culture, but also into a brotherhood that offers tradition and sources of moral fortitude, in addition to a supportive network that can be invaluable when searching for jobs. And let us not forget Animal House was released in 1978, hazing at Tulane is strictly prohibited, so you needn’t worry about having to go through the wacky ceremonies you see in the movies.

Personally, my experience at Tulane has been invaluably changed and improved by my involvement in a fraternity. As an initial skeptic, I highly encourage you (especially the doubters) to give Greek life a shot. 

By: Justin Picard

Monday, January 12, 2015

Sorority Recruitment Survival Tips

Sorority Recruitment Survival Tips

Sorority recruitment has already started and people are buzzing! About 40% of Tulane students are involved in Greek life, and recruitment for both IFC fraternities and Panhel sororities take place at the beginning of second semester. At Tulane, we have 8 Panhellenic Council sororities, and luckily, recruitment gives you the opportunity to experience and get to know all of them at least once. While some people may be worried or freaking out, I've compiled 10 do's and don't's to guide you through:

1. Don't be nervous!

The whole point of recruitment is for everyone to get to know each other. While other schools may have a more rigorous process, Tulane Panhel makes sure that everyone has a comfortable, respectful and enjoyable experience. Once you get through a few events at different houses, you'll realize there's no need to be really worried and can try to just enjoy the process.

Alpha Delta Pi (ADPi)

2. Have an open mind

While some people may have preconceived notions about certain houses, it is essential to keep an open mind going in to recruitment so you don't limit any opportunities. Try and base all of your options on the conversations and experiences you have in each house rather than focus on external rumors, gossip, etc!

Alpha Epsilon Phi (AEPhi)

3. Be kind to everyone

The days are long - for PNMs (Potential New Members, aka women going through the recruitment process) as well as members of each house. It is easy to get tired and less excited as the day goes on, but remember to stay as positive and nice to everyone as possible, even if you're in a house that isn't your first choice. 
Chi Omega (Chi O)

4. Wear comfortable clothing

I remember my freshman year during recruitment as I, along with everyone else on my floor, carefully picked out each part of my outfit for each day of recruitment. I focused way too much on the color of my necklace and too little on the actual comfort of my clothing. Again, the days are long and you have to walk between houses in limited time. I can't stress this enough -- wear comfortable clothing, ESPECIALLY shoes! If you're going to wear heels, make sure you can walk and stand in them comfortably and easily (I have to admit, I definitely fell twice during recruitment in heels - not fun). 
Kappa Alpha Theta (Theta)

5. Try to have personal, meaningful conversations

If you just talk about your major and dorm in every event and every house, it'll be hard to get a good reading of the community within each sorority. While you'll cover all the basics within the first five minutes, try to ask more personal questions about the sorority such as their philanthropies and their sisterhood. Obviously everyone loves mixers and cool themed parties, but you want to be comfortable with the actual sisterhood before you can focus on other activities. I always asked the sisters about their favorite events and why they chose their house in order to get a better sense of what each house was really like, and it really gave me great insight on each community.

Kappa Kappa Gamma (Kappa)


6. Be mindful of yourself in the week in between events

Although asked not to, many PNMs choose to go out during the week between Open House/Philanthropy and Sisterhood/Preference. I really recommend against going out - it's awkward running into older girls that you can't talk to. However, if you do decide to go out, be extremely mindful of the way you hold yourself -- you want to present the best version of yourself possible! Moreover, as much as you may want to, don't try to contact your older friends in sororities. Respect the recruitment process: go out to dinner, get froyo, have a movie night in, but avoid the Boot and Palms!

Phi Mu

7. Take this experience as an opportunity to bond with other freshmen

You're all going through this at the same time - why not chat, bond, and get to know each other? You'll not only get closer with the girls on your floor, but also the girls in your recruitment group who you'll spend each day with. Remember to respect everyone's decisions and opinions, and to support each other. Taking the time to bond with each other will only make it more exciting to see more friendly faces on bid day!

Pi Beta Phi (Pi Phi)

8. Make your own decisions and opinions

I went through recruitment with my closest group of friends and we all ended up in different houses. Joining a sorority won't change your friendships; it'll only add new ones! While some parts of recruitment may be disappointing, try not to compare yourself to the choices your friends make or the houses they get invited back to. Focus on your own feelings and decide where you see yourself fitting in best, even if it's not the same choice as your roommate. This is another time when it's important to support one another through the ups and downs so that everyone has the best experience possible.
Sigma Delta Tau (SDT)


9 + 10.  Everything happens for a reason and get excited!!

Remember, it is a mutual selection process. Bid day (see all above pictures) is a wonderful, fun day that everyone should be excited for! No matter which house you end up in, keep an open mind, meet as many people as possible and get ready for an amazing experience! Happy recruitment!




Sunday, December 28, 2014

Student's Perspective on Freshman Dorms


A Student’s Perspective on Freshman Dorms

By Hela Watson


Monroe: 

Considered one of the more “social” dorms, Monroe is a co-ed all freshman dorm located by the business school. It’s location is handy because not only is it very close to Bruff, but it is the closest dorm to the LBC, Loyola’s dining hall (“Luff”), and Starbucks. So if you prioritize proximity to food, “Mo” is your best choice. Additionally, the Monroe quad is ideal for tanning or throwing a Frisbee.




Sharp: 

Sharp is Monroe’s brother dorm that houses freshman females and males. Also a “social” dorm, Sharp is positioned next to Monroe and about 30 seconds closer to Bruff. The rooms in sharp have furniture that cannot be moved- so if you don’t plan on adjusting the setup of your room, Sharp will work for you! Instead of a grassy quad like Monroe, Sharp boasts a sand volleyball court.




Wall: 

In order to live in Wall, students need to apply. Wall is a co-ed freshman and sophomore dorm conveniently located behind Bruff. Students living here are often very involved on campus. Wall is pretty new so residents do not have to struggle with some of the inconveniences of other older dorms.




Josephine Louise (JL): 

Many female students moan and groan about their unwanted placement in the single-sex JL at first, but almost all end up loving it. JL has a quad that is almost private, spacious rooms, many shower stalls, large windows, and individual thermostats. JL is located right next to Newcomb, so students only need to leave a minute or two before a class there. 




Patterson: 

Home to the more “alternative” students, Patterson is a co-ed dorm for freshman and sophomores. Students living here are generally laid back and perhaps chose Patterson because it is the healthy living dorm.





Butler: 

Butler is the co-ed freshman honors dorm. Although honors students are not required to live here, many do. It tends to be quieter and slightly less rowdy than other dorms. The floors alternate gender and refer to themselves as “Butt-(insert floor number).” Butler is perhaps the best dorm for Bruff lovers because it is just across the street. 




Greenbaum House: 

New to Tulane this year, Greenbaum is a freshman and sophomore dorm located next to Newcomb. Some call it the “Boot Dorm,” because it is positioned right by the famous bar, The Boot. This makes it convenient on the weekends because it is a quick and easy walk home. 




For more information about student housing, check out: http://tulane.edu/studentaffairs/housing/index.cfm

Sunday, December 14, 2014

A Conversation with CakeWalk Vocalist Piper Browne



CakeWalk is a nine-piece band made up of Tulane students that dabble in soul, funk, and pop music. They opened for Smashmouth at the Tulane University Homecoming concert, and now are in talks for a Back to School show at Gasa Gasa this spring. Recently, I had an opportunity to sit down with one of the lead vocalists, Piper Browne, and discuss her experience balancing music and schoolwork in the context of the Big Easy.


What would you say is your style of singing, and how does mesh with the rest of the band?


Kyle, Jenna, and I all have very different voice types, which I think is one of the best parts about having three different vocalists. It adds diversity to the bands overall sound and makes sure that each one of our songs has a little something different to it. Even though we all have very different styles, our voices actually mesh together really nicely. We generally have one person sing lead and the other two on backup with some sweet harmonies. I would describe Kyle’s voice as Motown meets neosoul, Jenna’s as soulful betty pop with theater/classical undertones, and my own voice as jazzy pop with folk undertones.


What other groups are you a part of on campus?


Music wise, I have been in Green Envy A Cappella since freshmen year. That and CakeWalk have been my main music groups for the past year. Before CakeWalk I was in a band with some other friends Saf City and was in one of Tulane’s jazz combos my sophomore year.


Has your singing, and/or performing changed since you got to New Orleans?


I would say my singing and performing have definitely changed since I’ve gotten to New Orleans. In high school I did a lot of musical theater and choir. Once I got to Tulane I started studying jazz voice, singing pop with Green Envy, and now funk with CakeWalk. I haven’t done any theater or even choir type music since I’ve been at Tulane. My time here has really solidified my unique and versatile sound and has made me realize what kind of music I really love singing. As far as performing, I did a lot of performing before I got here, but definitely performing of a different kind. Through Green Envy I’ve learned how to perform very in sync with about 15 other people on a stage and keep up complicated voice parts while listening to three others and dancing to the groove. With CakeWalk I’ve learned how to really let lose while on stage and improv. I have always loved performing and being on stage, and my time in New Orleans has only increased that love.


Who are your biggest influences, and why?


I would say my biggest influences in the music realm are the other musicians I perform with 100%. I was trying to think of famous people that I listen to and look to for ideas and advice, and there have definitely been some of those over the years, but I am surrounded by so many talented singers and performers constantly in my different music endeavors that I really don’t have to look very far. They all bring something so special to our groups and when I hear something they do that I love, I’ll try to recreate it with my own Piper twist. Specifically, Jenna Winston has pushed me to new vocal heights more than I’m sure she even knows. That girl can absolutely wail and never ceases to amaze me. I’ve always felt pretty sure about my own vocal range and capabilities, but I think I was being a little timid with it and standing next to Jenna up there and listening to her belt out crazy lines, timid is definitely something one can be. She has forced me to open my mind and try new things and push myself even when I think I probably won’t be able to make it up to whatever note I’m reaching for. I still remain faithful to my lower more jazzy and sultry? Haha (that’s what I go for at least) sound, but because of her I’ve really pushed myself and sang parts I never used to think I could.




What are your favorite venues in New Orleans?


My favorite venues are always the clubs on Frenchmen. I love how intimate they are and how close you can get to the stage and performers. It’s a completely different experience and you really feel like you’re a part of it. I love surrounding myself with the kind of people who go to these clubs as well. Everyone gets so into the music and doesn’t even think judge when you just have to go a little wild on the dance flow…if anything, they’ll just join you!


What is the greatest challenge you've faced as a performer?


I’ll be honest, singing backup has definitely been a challenge in different ways. It’s very easy to get wrapped up in your own part and solo when you’re up on stage and switching gears and singing backup can feel like a bummer in the moment, but now it has turned into one of my favorite things. Especially with Green Envy where we have really complicated, beautiful, and overall amazing background parts, knowing your part and singing in sync with the rest of the group, eyes locking and bodies bouncing, while the lead sings over us is an amazing feeling. It’s when I feel most cohesive with the group and when I really appreciate the beauty and complexity of a cappella. In CakeWalk, being a backup singer is just plain fun. We come up with catchy, funky background harmonies and belt out those (and dance…a lot) while the lead wails on top of them. I think it takes our band to the next level and being a part of creating that is incredible.


What is you favorite show you've ever played? (What/Where/When/Why etc.)


I think my favorite CakeWalk show has been the one we played at Cafe P (Cafe Prytania) at the beginning of the semester. We opened for Naughty Professor which was so cool and such an honor and it was our first show back together after the summer and it was just pure magic. I had been missing the guys and Jenna, and making music tougher, a ton. The singers also wore overalls, which was clutch. We were vibing with each other hardcore and I’m pretty sure the audience could feel the love emanating from all of our instruments. 


What does the future hold for CakeWalk, and for you?


In the immediate future, we’re working to book some studio time to record some of our originals and hopefully release an EP of sorts. That’s our primary goal at the moment, so we’ll be putting a hold on performing for a couple weeks, probably until around Mardi Gras. And as far as my personal future…I’ll be working to take advantage of every sweet moment I have left as a student at Tulane as a second semester senior. Being a senior is definitely bittersweet. On one hand, I’d like to be a Tulane student forever, but on the other hand (and I’m more so on this hand), I really cannot wait to get into the real world and start my new life in a different part of Nola. 

Check out the CakeWalk in our Homecoming video!



Justin Picard

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Eating Out in NOLA for Vegetarians - Christopher Halbohn


Eating Out in NOLA: A Vegetarian’s Guide to the Culinary Utopia That is New Orleans




If you’re a vegetarian, then you are already aware of the difficulties that come along with your ethical decision to avoid meat and fish. Whether for environmental, animal cruelty, or health reasons, being a vegetarian in New Orleans may carry a stigma of being impossible due to the importance placed on seafood and spicy meats here. But I can tell you with certainty that you will not starve in this city if those sources of protein are just simply not your thing. 

The list featured below names ten restaurants that offer a dazzling array of meatless options for special diners, like myself, who do not eat meat. Each featured restaurant will come with a brief description and the recommended order that will be sure to satisfy carnivores and herbivores alike! 


Ba Chi Canteen- 7900 Maple Street, Uptown University Area
http://www.yelp.com/biz/ba-chi-canteen-new-orleans 
Located a mere 10 minute walk from Tulane’s Uptown campus, Ba Chi is a cozy place specializing in Vietnamese fare. Start with the classic tofu fresh spring rolls and then move to the curry tofu po-boy with basil aioli—a twist on the authentic New Orleans po’ boy sandwich (it’s like a hoagie or sub, depending on what area in the United States you are from). Wash it down with a Thai tea after. 


Seed- 1330 Prytania Street, Lower Garden District 
http://seedyourhealth.com
Seed is a restaurant offering purely vegetarian dishes, so this restaurant is a good one if you are a bit stricter with your eating habits. Start with the mango and kale salad and then treat yourself to the sweet potato and mushroom cake. Both are to die for! 



Juan’s Flying Burrito- (three locations) 
4724 South Carrollton Ave, 2018 Magazine Street, 515 Baronne Street 
http://www.juansflyingburrito.com
Mexican food is always sure to be a crowd-pleaser for all diners, especially in the eclectically-designed Juan’s restaurants! While meat is obviously on the menu and offered in almost all of the dishes, one can simply request to have no meat and to replace all meat with extra beans! Take some chips and guacamole first, then enjoy the Supergreen Burrito, stuffed with green chiles, spinach, grilled onions, bell peppers, broccoli, avocado, mushrooms, salsa, and cheese! Don’t forget to try any of the famous margaritas, also! 


The Rum House- 3128 Magazine Street, Garden District 
http://www.rumhousenola.com
A Caribbean-inspired restaurant on the famous Magazine Street, The Rum House offers a spectacular event every Tuesday called “Taco Tuesday.” On Tuesdays all tacos are $2 and most beers are also $2, while the margaritas are $4 until 6:30 p.m. Try the Rasta tacos, complete with jerked veggies, avocado lime sour cream, and cilantro. For sides, choose the jalapeno coleslaw and the homemade sweet potato chips for a delicious balance to the tacos! 


City Greens- 909 Poydras St. #125, Central Business District
http://eatcitygreens.com
Providing a clean, eco-friendly eating environment, City Greens serves crispy salads and savory soups for incredibly low prices. My favorite is the Southwest salad, with avocadoes, black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, tortilla chips, and pepper jack cheese! Vegetarian and vegan soups, however, are only offered on Mondays. 



Nirvana- 4308 Magazine Street, Garden District 
http://www.insidenirvana.com
Indian food is usually a great dining option for the modern vegetarian. While dining here, one can look around at the interesting artwork adorning the walls of the restaurant, really adding to the ambiance of the experience! Take the palak paneer, a dish of spinach and farmer’s cheese cubes with a side of naan. If you’re still hungry, some veggie samosas are a great addition! Who knows, you might even see John Goodman there! Nirvana is one of his favorite restaurants. 


Sukho Thai- (two locations) 
1913 Royal Street, French Quarter and 4519 Magazine Street
http://www.sukhothai-nola.com
Thai, like Vietnamese food, is another cuisine that caters to those who do not eat meat. Sukho makes the dining experience a bit more modern and elegant, providing delicious foods while offering a clean, more upscale setting. Try any of the Pad Thai dishes, spiced to taste. If you’re looking to save some money, go during lunchtime to take advantage of reduced-price meals!


Biscuits and Buns on Banks- 4337 Banks Street, Mid City
http://www.yelp.com/biz/biscuits-and-buns-on-banks-new-orleans
A fabulous brunch locale, this restaurant may be a bit out-of-the-way, but it certainly is worth the trek. Named as one of the best restaurants in the United States for biscuits, this comfortable restaurant located in a renovated house is perfect for all tastes! While the biscuits are a must, also try the Blueberry and Brie Stuffed Waffle, both taken with a cup of endless freshly-brewed coffee!


Vincent’s- 7839 St. Charles Avenue, Uptown University Area
http://www.vincentsitaliancuisine.com
Just a 5-minute walk down St. Charles from Gibson Hall, Vincent’s is a well-established Italian restaurant that caters to a wide array of tastes. Though full of carbs, Italian fare is still pretty vegetarian-friendly. Order the eggplant parmesan for an authentic taste of Italy here in New Orleans!


 Pizza Domenica- 4933 Magazine St, Garden District 
http://www.pizzadomenica.com
Another sure way to make sure everyone in your dining party is satisfied, head to John Besh’s Pizza Domenica to try any one of their nuanced takes on pizza! This restaurant also features a happy hour every day from 2-5 PM to take advantage of reduced-priced pizzas! Be sure to try the Garlic Knots with aged provolone fonduta and the Roasted Carrot pizza with goat cheese! Mm.