I recently became a part of a group of ladies that lovingly refers to themselves as the Ladies who Lunch. Since most of us have jobs, we don’t meet everyday (can you imagine)?!  Instead, we meet every other month on a Friday afternoon for a fabulous, boozy time while wearing hats or fascinators, very naturally New Orleans…

This past luncheon was my luncheon to plan with my two marvelous friends, Liz and Debby.  We chose a derby theme since it was on May 4th.  We chose to have it at Broussard’s, mainly because they serve a spectacular brunch on Friday that starts at 10am so you can really get a jump on your weekend antics!  They also have a jazz band that serenades all of the revelers as they eat, drink, and make merriment.  

We began our adventure by trying to sit next to each other (our hats!) at the Empire Bar where they were serving Derby Coolers.  It was the perfect kickoff to a popular New Orleans pastime, day drinking.  I had a few sips, but I just can’t pass up an Old Fashioned with luxardo cherries. I chose Blanton’s Kentucky Bourbon (the one with a horse on top of the bottle) to keep the spirit of derby day!

As we made our way into the centuries old dining room, we passed the French doors that opened to Broussard’s famous courtyard, letting just enough of a Friday morning breeze.  Debby, Liz, and I had derby red rose arrangements to adorn our table and everyone received a mini mint julep cup so that they could properly double fist with bubbly and a mint julep.  We also had door prizes and a photographer to capture the day!  We sat there in our outrageous hats, relishing the red chili glazed fried chicken biscuits and blue crab gratinée.  We sipped on our bottomless mimosas and sparkling rose as we decided on our main course.  I am always torn…I can usually whittle down my choices to two so that my fiancé and I can share.  I couldn’t just stab my fork into Debby’s plate to get my fix of Shrimp and Crab Benedict today, I mean, I was in my brunchday best for crying out loud!  Then I started thinking about my upcoming wedding and started to wonder if I should consider a “healthy” option… but the table next to us smelled of fried chicken and waffles… I knew what I had to do.  So I placed my order. 

We continued to gallivant and pose for photos with tourists as they asked what we were celebrating.  Of course they were entirely astonished when we replied, “It’s Friday baby”!

Then it was time…a seared petite filet mignon, three cheese scalloped potatoes and eggs on the sunny side with bacon marchands de vin sauce was placed before me and my big, beautiful hat.  It was church…and by church I mean that satisfying feeling on Sunday in the dome when we’ve just beaten the falcons!  Hallelujah!