If you live on the south shore of New Orleans you tend to think of the north shore as a place across the lake that there’s no compelling reason to visit.

People on the north shore will give you a list of reasons to drive across the causeway. One of the names on that list is Acquistapace’s.

It’s easiest to describe Acquistapace’s as a supermarket, but that doesn’t do it justice. For starters about 40% of it is a wine store. It has a gigantic cheese selection. And much more.

The Acquistapace family is a part of the Schwegman family. Schwegman’s went on to dominate the New Orleans grocery market and the Acquistipace’s moved North and conquered the north shore. All in all, the Schwegman and Acquistapace family have been selling groceries in New Orleans for 150 years.

Adam Acquistapace is the the current steward of the family business. Adam and his brother have two stores, one in Mandeville and the other in Covington, that specialize in wine and cheese as well as everyday groceries.

Jacob Landry has a newer business. Jacob co-founded Urban South Brewery in 2016. Urban South bottles Jacob’s Cajun background into beers like Charming Wit and Holy Roller. Urban South also has a popular tap room that they describe as “kid friendly.” So if you want to grab a craft beer and let your 8 year old drive home, Urban South Brewery might be the spot you’re looking for. 

Photos at Commander’s Palace wine room by Aliison Moon.