The end of summer 2021 is quickly approaching, but before we start talking about all things pumpkin spice, there are a few more warm weather holidays and seasonal treats to celebrate this year.

Labor Day falls on September 6 and it has us thinking about pool-side favorites, including hot dogs and milkshakes. Sure, you can make hot dogs at home but if you want to try some decadent and unique hot dog combinations, then Dat Dog is your spot! Stick with the classic all-beef frank, or try an alligator, crawfish or duck sausage dog. Vegans will love that they carry four different meatless options, including one flavored with chipotle peppers. And our pescatarian friends will appreciate the Sea Dog Special with beer-battered cod, tartar sauce, tomatoes and onions.

How about an ice-cold milkshake to wash down that delicious hot dog? Enjoy a classic malt from Creole Creamery, a seasonal shake made with soft serve from Company Burger or an over-the-top Cookie Monster, Nutella Reese’s or Mint Chocolate Chip shake from Frey Smoked Meat Company.

September 20 is “National Punch Day” and we’re choosing to interpret that as the boozy kind you have at brunch.  SoBou offers a punch set-up with their hooch punch, served in oversized flasks for $25, which serves two to four people, or $45 that serves up to eight. And finally, Compère Lapin offers a bottomless brunch punch for only $20. All punch flavors at these establishments change with the season but are always delicious!

“National Coffee Day” falls on September 29 and until temperatures cool down, we’re strictly caffeinating with iced varieties. The NOLA iced coffee from French Truck is just the right amount of sweet, and their Oji Japanese slow-brewed coffee creates a low-acid/high caffeine result. But some of the most unique iced coffee drinks come from Mammoth Espresso on Baronne. We love their Cardamom iced latte featuring shaken espresso with vanilla and cream, and their spin on a Moscow mule with ginger beer and lime-infused syrup, topped with a double shot of espresso.

And finally, as New Orleans continues its recovery from the impacts of Hurricane Ida, more and more restaurants are re-opening. Click here to see a full list of all restaurants that are currently serving. 

Cheers to the last month of summer!