Farm to Table Dinner at La Divina, COOLinary Returns

DEALFEED?The New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau is again trying to spice up the historically slow month of August with their COOLinary Restaurant Month. Bad name, but great deals, with over 50 restaurants participating and offering a variety of prix fixe menus. [Official Site via PR News Wire]

SOBOU WIRE?Robert Peyton of New Orleans Mag files the early word on SoBou in his weekly blog, Haute Plates: "There's an ample bar, a menu damn near built around bar food and some of the best cocktails I've had in quite a while." [MNO]

EATER TRACKING?Eater hears word that Duke's on the Basin, the hybrid seafood market/restaurant/boat dock by Duke LoCicero, won't open until around Labor Day. It was originally due to open for the Fourth of July. No sign of construction on the property yet. [EaterWire, Eater Comments]

EVENT PLANNING?Chef Mia Calamia is cooking up a four course "Taste of Sicily" dinner next Thursday at the Garden District location of La Divina Gelateria. Per press materials, the dinner will emphasize its use of ingredients from local farms and fisheries. It's $35 non-inclusive, call (504) 342-2634 for details and to make reservations. [EaterWire]

Inside Ste. Marie, one of over 50 restaurants participating in the COOLinary Restaurant Month. [Photo: Nikki Mayeux]