The American Cuisine and Hospitality Symposium

In New Orleans, the lifeblood of American cuisine runs as thick and rich as any pot of the city's best roux. For an unparalleled taste of this notable culinary history (and some of that roux), one need look no further than the institution of Commander's Palace, whose world-famous flavors (not to mention festive blue paint job) have been a foodie landmark for 125 years.

To celebrate this anniversary, along with the New Orleans tricentennial, the Commander's team is hosting the American Cuisine and Hospitality Symposium, last convened in 1983 by the indomitable Ella Brennan and family. The day-long event on Monday, September 17 will showcase the history and further development of American cuisine, with delectable discussion panels by local industry leaders on topics from cocktail culture to females in the restaurant industry to New Orleans hospitality and beyond. Of course, the symposium will also honor Ella Brennan, whose own life and legacy was bound up inextricably with her beloved local food right up until her passing earlier in 2018.

9:30 am–5 pm at the Orpheum Theatre. $225. achsymposium.com.