Poppy Tooker wrote the book on drag queen brunches. No, seriously. She actually just published Drag Queen Brunch, a 160-page photography book all about the blossoming breakfast trend.
She’s also the host of Poppy’s Pop-Up Drag Queen Brunch, one of the most popular drag brunch events in New Orleans. Tooker says the idea first came to her when she was contacted by the ghost of Julian Eltinge, a well-known female impersonator from the early 20th century.
“Newsweek magazine called him the ‘RuPaul of the early 20th Century,'” she says. “He was America’s #1 celebrity.”
With Eltinge’s spirit in mind, Tooker produced her first brunch in 2015. Four years later, she regularly hosts brunches at different venues all over the city, with the proceeds going to charity.
“All of my brunches have always been for charity,” she says. “Even the drag queens donate their tips.”
Not only that, but she’s helped start a trend in New Orleans. Today, there are weekly and monthly drag brunches held at gay bars and restaurants all around the city. We’ve rounded them up for you.
Poppy’s Pop-Up Drag Queen Brunch
Produced by beloved local media personality Poppy Tooker, host of NPR’s Louisiana Eats!, this truly unique pop-up brunch experience happens at a different venue nearly every month and features a rotating cast of queens. For more info, visit www.poppytooker.com.
Pythian Market
This monthly drag show features the ladies of Va-Va Voom plus special guest performers and DJs. With over a dozen food vendors plus Bar 1908 providing libations, there’s something for everyone here. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Country Club
This long-running spectacle happens every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an a la carte menu, bottomless mimosas, and an impressive Bloody Mary bar. Plan ahead, though, because reservations book up months – yes, months – in advance.
Cru
Local legend Vanessa Carr Kennedy brings her signature blend of glamour, gumption, and grit to one the chicest neighborhood joints in the Marigny. This drag/burlesque breakfast experience happens every Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Mag’s 940
The ladies of Diva Royale channel such icons as Madonna, Beyoncé, Celine Dion, and Adele at this bawdy midday brunch every Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Seating is limited and tickets must be purchased ahead of time.
The Fillmore
Now in its third year, this all-ages drag event happens every Sunday and features a different theme each week. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with the show beginning at 11:45 a.m. Tickets are all-inclusive and should be purchased in advance.
Allways Lounge
Looking for a slightly more unorthodox experience? The monthly Drag Brunch 12:01, hosted by Harlequeen Presents, happens shortly after midnight and features some of the cutest and craziest queens in New Orleans. Doors open at 11 p.m. and the show starts promptly at 12:01 a.m.
