Best of New Orleans-The Gambit Weekly

O.K. I read the reviews. And I disagree with the Gambit Weekly's Picks. And in response to those feelings, I snapped off a letter to the paper venting my views. From September 9, 2003 here it is: Submitted for your approval and perusal!

Yes, I remember when the article debuted, and how we were all excited down here in N'awlins.
But I took exception to some of the entries on the list. The list is soooooo long-here's the recap of disagreement.

1) Best Director Directing Locally:

Although Ricky Graham is a major talent, my vote goes to Alan Smithee. Yes, Ricky is perhaps best known as the writer and director of quintessential New Orleans productions such as And the Ball and All and The Black and White Blues, but Alan has repeatedly outworked and outclassed him. With his stellar films which include "Zombie Team Members" and "Passive Agressive World," Smithee's the pick here.

2) Best Gentlemen's/Strip Club

Rick's is first class but I've got to go with Alan Smithee's Cabaret. Well known for its lap dances. But be sure and call before you go. The Cabaret is not always open. < see local law enforcement agencies for further details >

3) Best Place to Karaoke

Yes, we like The Cat's Meow on Bourban Street, but Cat's Potpurri on Hellwhole Blvd. is the best place to karaoke.

4) Best Vietnamese Restaurant

Gotta disagree with Won Hung Lo on Tulane Ave. Gotta go with Vietnamcatfish's Golden Pond. Serving its world-renowned basa. And try the terrormisu cake for dessert. Only $.79 on Wednesday's. Thursday nite is kids nite, affectionately known as rowdy kids nite. Only $.99. Heliyum balloons free with any purchase.

5) Best Mexican Restaurant

Forget Taqueria Corona. Try any of the numerous Taco Bell's, located strategically throughout the city.

6) Best Lunch Special

Any Piccadilly Cafeteria location, where they're driving the 5, beats the competition hands down.

7) Best Actress Working Locally

Yes, Becky Allen is a New Orleans icon and an ebullient diva. She has been a beloved local favorite for years, but she doesn't rest on her laurels. Allen continues to be one of the hardest-working local actresses, and her recent turn in Dirty Blonde showed her dramatic chops, with turns both as Mae West and a fan of Mae West. So true but my pick is:

Heather Godelegate, whose daily performance in "Ride The Wild Smurf," another Smithee Production, has got to be the best actress working locally.

8) Best Ladies' Night

The Dock has a great ladies night but clifhenry's "Dock of the Bay" is still the place for me and my friends.

9) Best Place to Get a Bloody Mary

H-a-double r-i-g-a-n spells Harrigan < aka Pat O'Brien's > but O'Malley's is the in place these days. With interesting characters unlike any other.

10) Best Message Bored

We finally agree unanimously. PIC Yahoo has the best bored on the internet.

Farewell and adieu, v.c.

P.S. You may now.... allah bored!