We found several places that don't take reservations, don't require them or still have space. Copeland's takes reservations for only 20 percent of its dining room and offers a call-ahead waiting list. On Sunday, the restaurant is serving a jazz brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a live jazz ensemble and a menu of eight entrees. All entrees come with a side of jambalaya. And just for Sunday, Copeland's is offering with nearly every entree a basket of beignets dusted with powdered sugar, and other desserts including cheesecake and two types of Bananas Foster.
Flavor is just as important as heat.
So leave the Tums at home. Barcelona, at 900 N. 54th St., just east of I-10, will open two hours earlier than usual at 2 p.m., serving its regular Mediterranean menu of creative appetizers, pastas, steaks and chops, and some specials just for mom. Barcelona takes reservations but doesn't expect to be full by today. Walk-ins are also accepted. For an interactive dining experience, dip into the Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant at 3626 W. Ray Road.