Inspired by the annual March Madness college basketball tournament, the inaugural Bean Madness tournament has pit 64 New Orleans establishments against one another in search of the city’s best restaurant-cooked red beans. Over the course the past few weeks, locals have voted for their favorites during a series of blind taste tests and even filled out prediction brackets to try their luck at calling the results.

After four rounds, only four restaurants—dubbed the “Final Fork”—remain. Each of these establishments has been declared the winner of its respective regional division. The four are Avery’s on Tulane (Mid City — East), Cornet (French Quarter), Joey K’s (Uptown) and Frady’s (Downtown).

The semi-final round will take place this weekend, with Joey K’s taking on Cornet on Friday, March 31 and Frady’s taking on Avery’s on Saturday, April 1.

The winners will compete in a Championship match at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum on Sunday, April 2, which will feature music from Margie Perez and DJ Alsky. Tickets for that final battle are on sale now.

As previously reported, Bean Madness is put on the organizers of the Red Beans Parade and is a fundraiser for local non-profits Anna’s Place and Make Music NOLA.

 

Here’s a look at the times and locations for the “Final Fork” round:

 

Friday March 31st 

Joey K’s vs. Cornet – 4 to 6 pm.

Anna’s Place – 1313 Esplanade Ave

Saturday April 1st

Frady’s vs. Avery’s – 2 to 4 pm

Second Line Brewery – 433 N. Bernadotte St.