There’s no better town in America for culinary adventure than New Orleans. With hundreds of fine dining and regional-cuisine restaurants, it’s tempting to do nothing but eat and drink yourself into a double-wide seat requirement for your flight home. No wonder Saveur magazine picked New Orleans as “The best food city in the nation,” last year.

NOLA is especially mouth-watering during the hottest days of summer when the COOLinary New Orleans dining event is on. Now in its 10th year, the August 1-31 foodie magnet is at the center of the city’s culinary community celebration and highlights the best of the city’s world-class restaurants with two- to three-course prix fixe menus. More than 50 N'awlins restaurants, including some of the city’s most prestigious venues will offer authentic dishes representing the local food culture.

The long list of COOlinary dining spots includes such New Orleans classics as Antoine's, Court of Two Sisters, Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse, Galatoire's Restaurant and K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen. Seafood selections are guaranteed at Desire Bistro & Oyster Bar, GW Fins and Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar. Carnivores may prefer to check out Besh Steak, Charlie's Steak House, Galatoire's "33" Bar & Steak, The Grill Room and Rib Room.

Dozens of other hot spots offer a chance to explore menus in the most delicious neighborhoods all over town, from the French Quarter to the Garden District. There will also be a slew of events going on during the month such as Dirty Linen Night, Red Dress Run and Southern Decadence (or as it is lovingly called “Gay Mardi Gras”).