John Besh on Flying, Arnaud's December Lunch, More

NOLA? Chef John Besh is in the Frequent Flier section of the New York Times this week: "I like talking to seatmates. Sometimes people recognize me from "Top Chef" or PBS, or maybe they've visited one of my restaurants in New Orleans." [NYT]

FAIR GROUNDS? Laura McKnight reports that the Tastings at the Track series will feature more than 75 champagnes/sparkling wines on November 20 with a special Holiday Bubbly Bash from 6 to 9 p.m. on the fourth-floor Clubhouse at the Fair Grounds. Expect light hors d'oeuvres. $35/ticket. Call (504) 948-1285 for more information. [NOLA.com]

QUARTER? Typically only open for dinner, Arnaud's will offer lunch in honor of the holiday season, with an a la carte menu served 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on December 12, 16-20, and 23-24. The Grande Dame also drops their $45 five-course Reveillon dinner menu on December 1. [Eaterwire]

Arnaud's [Photo: Nikki Mayeux]