How to score New Orleans' best restaurant deals

Catch up quick: New Orleans' biggest restaurant promotion, COOLinary, turns 20 this year, according to New Orleans & Co., which organizes the annual event that offers discounted, fixed price meals throughout the city.

• It typically runs throughout August, but to celebrate the anniversary dates will be extended until Sept. 15, a press release says.
• This year, diners are also asked to make a donation of at least $5 to Second Harvest Food Bank. New Orleans & Co. will match the donations at COOLinary's end.

By the numbers: COOLinary's deals are priced at $28 or less for two-course lunches, or $58 or less for three-course dinners and brunches.

• More than 130 restaurants are participating this year, according to the website.

My picks: If you haven't tried the new Dickie Brennan & Co. Audubon Clubhouse, now's a good time.

• I also like the look of the menu at Copper Vine on Poydras.
• The options at Station 6 look super refreshing for summer.

Other summer deals we've spotted recently around New Orleans:

• Brunch at Tujague's for $18.56.
• A $15 pasta night on Thursday at BABs, formerly Bywater American Bistro.
• A $10 day pass to the Virgin Hotel's rooftop pool.
• Temperature lunches Tuesdays through Fridays at Palace Café, where you move a decimal on yesterday's high and that's your lunch price. (High of 97? Lunch costs $9.70).