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I accepted the invitation, excited to enjoy more of Muriel’s excellent cuisine and curious about the LRA’s new crusade.
So, last night was the date set for the promised event and I found myself climbing the mysterious back staircase of Muriel’s, past the ghost of Mr. Jourdan, into an elegant reception room flaunting “We Live to Eat” signage amidst the delightful food and beverages provided for the evening.

While sampling dishes like Andouille Crusted Puppy Drum with a Smoked Tomato Butter Sauce and Wood Grilled Beef Tenderloin with a sauce of roasted wild mushrooms and balsamic-grilled onions, I watched the famed foodies of New Orleans file in the door.
I saw Ian McNulty from the Gambit, Susan Ford from Louisiana Cookin’ Magazine, Tommy Cvitanovich of Drago’s Seafood Restaurant, Anne Tuennerman of Tales of the Cocktail and more stream through the archway. It was a veritable who’s who of the dining culture in New Orleans all waiting for the LRA’s big announcement.

Finally, the mystery was explained.

We Live to Eat is an initiative designed to increase local awareness of New Orleans’ incredible cuisine and encourage folks to dine out more often. Sponsoring special menus in member restaurants, publicizing special culinary events, becoming a notable presence at local festivals, distributing We Live to Eat–branded merchandise are just a few of the actions planned by the GNO Chapter to promote their campaign.

But, don’t take my word for it, visit LiveToEatNOLA.com or check them out on Facebook and find out what you can do to spread the word and “eat out more and live to the fullest!”