Restaurateurs in New Orleans want you to forget the scorching heat of August and come out to enjoy some great meals and deals.

Coolinary is a monthlong dining celebration featuring two- or three-course lunch menus for $20 (or less) and three-course dinner or brunch menus for $39 (or less) at dozens of restaurants.

Pick a place you’ve always wanted to try or go back to one you haven’t been to in a while. You couldn’t possibly try them all but what a nice dilemma, yes?

Galatoire’s $20 lunch menu was certainly worth the trip for an indulgent salad, entrée and dessert. Why, if a girl isn’t careful, her bar tab could just about double the bill. But it is New Orleans so wine is in order. And, yes, that is Allen Toussaint sitting there across the dining room.

Have a look at some of Galatoire’s lovely Coolinary lunch offerings and then go to the website to start making your list. Specials may not be available on certain days so pay attention to avoid disappointment. Coolinary ends when August does.

http://www.coolinaryneworleans.com