Hayden Walker

Hayden Walker is the Editor in Chief and Director of Operations for Austin Food Magazine

Pursuit Farms is Elevating the Art of Wagyu Beef

Pursuit Farms has become a beacon for discerning palates seeking the finest Wagyu beef available in the world. Founded by…

2 weeks ago

Caesars Entertainment Unveils Stunning Transformation with the Grand Opening of Caesars New Orleans

New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive, boasting nearly 800 luxurious hotel rooms split between the new Caesars Tower and the original hotel tower on Poydras Street. The resort’s gaming space is extensive, spanning more than 150,000 square feet, featuring over 1,300 slot machines, 120 table games, a 20-table World Series of Poker Room, three outdoor gaming courtyards, and a state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook. I was only…

3 weeks ago

Best Halloween Cocktail Bars and Parties in Austin

Your Ultimate Guide to Halloween Parties & Themed Bars in Austin Looking for spooky fun this Halloween season? Austin’s bars…

3 weeks ago

Austin Food & Wine Festival Unveils 2024 Schedule

With just weeks until the much-anticipated event, the Austin Food & Wine Festival is gearing up for an unforgettable weekend…

1 month ago

ACL Fest 2024: The Ultimate Guide to Eating Your Way through ACL Eats

ACL Fest 2024 brings not only an incredible music lineup but also a wide range of mouth-watering food options to…

2 months ago

Aburi Oshi Sushi Brings Flame-Seared Sushi to Austin

Austin’s sushi lovers have a new destination to explore, as Aburi Oshi Sushi makes its grand debut in central Austin.…

2 months ago

Teddy’s Set to Bring Southwestern Flavors to Austin’s Tarrytown Neighborhood

This fall, Austin’s Tarrytown neighborhood will welcome a new Southwestern-inspired bar and grill, Teddy’s, brought to life by the dynamic…

2 months ago

The 8th Annual Mac & Grilled Cheese Festival

Mark your calendars, cheese lovers! The 8th Annual Austin Mac & Grilled Cheese Festival is back, and this year, it’s…

2 months ago

A Guide to Houston’s Gastronomic Hot Spots

While far apart, both Austin and Houston never differ significantly in offering the best in Texan food culture. There isn’t…

2 months ago

St. Elmo Brewing Co. Expands with Second Location in East Austin

St. Elmo Brewing Co. is set to open its highly anticipated second location at 8110 Springdale Road in East Austin…

2 months ago