Schmap New Orleans Dining & Drinking

New Orleans - Dining & Drinking
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The people of New Orleans are passionate about eating. Any visitor to the city should experience the regional flavor, but there are important differences between the countrified Cajun, refined Creole, and classic Southern styles of cooking that make up New Orleans cuisine. There also exists a unifying principle, "Fat is flavor." Cream, butter, and oil abound. With this in mind, pace yourself! Hot weather and heavy food can limit your visit to the confines of your hotel room. Stay on the safe side and try to limit yourself to one big meal a day.

The Emeril Thing

Television impresario Emeril Lagasse, featured on the "Food Network," has three restaurants in New Orleans. Try NOLA in the Quarter for a casual night, Delmonico Restaurant & Bar in the Garden District for classic cuisine and service, and the eponymous Emeril's in the Warehouse District for an evening of sophistication.

Downtown/French Quarter

Tourists are always at risk of getting an expensive, average-tasting meal in the Quarter. The tourist industry spawned many mediocre restaurants that prioritize location over taste, but on the plus side, a truly bad meal is difficult to find anywhere in New Orleans. Avoid the trendy, or the handful of chain restaurants, in favor of the little holes in the wall.

Quality service usually comes at a high price in the Quarter, but you are also paying for a slice of history: a seat in some of the oldest fine dining establishments in the country. In any of the classic Creole-French restaurants, like (Arnaud's and Brennan's, you will have a satisfying experience laden with such traditional delicacies as Oysters Rockefeller, Trout Meuniere, Turtle Soup, and Banana's Foster.

For those in search of something more nouveau and intimate, the Quarter also offers the acclaimed Bayona (a four-star bargain), the gorgeous Gamay, the Italian-Creole Bacco and the romantic Bella Luna, which overlooks the Mississippi River.

There are many places to have a casual lunch. Briny oyster shooters can be had at ACME Oyster House, or a mixed-meat Muffeletta sandwich from the Central Grocery always hits the spot. After lunch, or even better for breakfast, move on to the sticky French pastry at La Marquise.

Old and New

A scattering of miscellaneous downtown restaurants represents just about everything that New Orleans has to offer. The downtown area has everything from old-school grease joints to cutting-edge bistros. Some places worth noting include the classy Gerard's Downtown in the Central Business District and the exotic Marisolin the Faubourg Marigny.

For old-time favorites that never cease to please, New Orleanians go to the no-nonsense Mandina's or the BBQ shrimp palace, Pascal's Manale.

Brunch

Sundays can be difficult for dining, as many of New Orleans' better restaurants close for the day. Fortunately, glorious options still exist, most especially the Brennan family's famous Commander's Palace, the former stomping-ground of celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme. Fun alternatives to downtown hotel buffets include the Gospel brunch at the House of Blues and the Camellia Grill, where playful waiters serve your meal at a kitschy 1950s-style counter. For the full-on Southern buffet, check out Court of the Two Sisters. Locals like to put this granddaddy of buffets down, but it has its merits, including solid bread pudding, Dixieland jazz, and a beautiful view of the Quarter.

To de-mystify some of the restaurant menus and grocery store shelves, here's a glossary you might find helpful:

Adouille (ahn doo' ee): A spicy pork sausage mostly used in gumbo and jambalaya.

Beignet (ben yay'): Almost a doughnut, but these are light, square, have no hole in the middle, and are covered with powdered sugar. You want to try one? Three words then, Cafe Du Monde.

Boudin (boo dan'): A spicy pork sausage filled with onions, cooked rice, and herbs. It's a favorite ingredient of New Orleans cooking superstar Emeril Lagasse.

Chicory (chick' o ree): An endive-like root roasted, ground, and used to flavor coffee. You won't have to go far to find a cup of chicory-flavored coffee in New Orleans. The most famous cup of this unique blend is at Cafe Du Monde, but other local coffeehouses also serve the local staple.

Crawfish: Pronouncing this freshwater crustacean as “cray-fish” will only make it obvious that you're a tourist. Always say it so that “craw” rhymes with “paw,” or better yet, call them mudbugs! These tasty critters are the center of attention at large outdoor social gatherings called "crawfish boils," and also appear on the mildly lewd T-shirts that make reference to the proper way of eating a crawfish. Try them with a new twist at such New Southern fusion temples as Gabrielle.

Etouffee (ay' too fay): This term means the dish is smothered with a dark roux, or tomato-based sauce. Typically, etouffee involves stewed crawfish with onions, celery, and bell peppers served over a bed of hot white rice. Try a delicious version at the House of Blues or even the food court at the Riverwalk Mall.

Grits: Ground hominy grain served at most breakfast tables in the city. The proper “Southern” manner of eating grits is to top the bowl with a hearty spoonful of butter and a few dashes of salt and pepper.

Gumbo (gum bow): A thick soup made from file, a ground sassafras root, and a hearty mixture of shrimp, crab claws, okra, sausage and rice. The Gumbo Shop in the French Quarter is the no-brainer place to sample a hot bowl of this stew-like concoction. Keep in mind lesser known, but possibly even better, venues such as Joey K's and Zachary's Creole Cuisine.

Jambalaya (jum' ba lie' ya): Everything but the kitchen sink! That's the best way to describe the ingredients of this rice-based dish, usually spicy-hot, stock full of chicken, shrimp, sausage, celery, green peppers and everything in-between. Mother's on Poydras Street has plenty of home cooked and delicious food, but their version of this Creole dish explains the long lines to get in the restaurant's door.

King Cake: You won't be able to find these extra-large doughnut pastries topped with purple, gold and green candied sugar unless you're in New Orleans between King's Day (January 6) and Mardi Gras Day. A tiny plastic baby is hidden inside the cake, and tradition requires that the person who finds the baby in their slice should buy the next King Cake.

Po-boys: Nearly a half loaf of French bread split open and stuffed with your choice of fried oysters, fried shrimp, soft-shelled crab, roast beef or even French fries. The term “dressed” indicates you'd like your po-boy with shredded lettuce, tomato, mayo and hot sauce. The best places that serve po-boys are definitely joints, perfect for a lunchtime break. Local favorites include Uglesich's Restaurant & Bar, Liuzza's, Domilise's, and Parasol's.

Praline (pra leen'): A sinful candied brown sugar, pecans and sweet syrup confection. Cruise by Aunt Sally's on Decatur Street and watch pralines being made before your very eyes! Then, of course, partake in the pleasurable consumption of the creations.

Red Beans and Rice: Kidney beans simmered all day with meat, ham, sausage, and milder seasonings than most Creole dishes, then served over rice. Everywhere across the city, you'll find red beans as the plate de jour on Mondays. It's a New Orleans' tradition stemming from the days of yore when Mondays were laundry day and whatever was on the stove had to be maintenance free. Tasty renditions can be found everywhere from pricey K-Paul's to the soul-food haven of Dunbar's.

Shrimp Creole: Shrimp, garlic, onion, bell pepper and tomatoes stewed and served over rice.

Washing it down

Many people flock to New Orleans for the simple truth that alcohol is everywhere; in the bars, on the sidewalks, in the streets. From the impressive wine lists of the elite Grill Room in the Windsor Court Hotel to the many to-go daiquiri shops on festive Bourbon Street, folks in New Orleans like to drink and they don't like to wait until the weekend to partake of the spirits.

A somewhat high-style cocktail life does exist in the city, most notably at the decadently good-natured Red Room and higher-end hotel lounges like the International House's Loa. However, the heart and soul of the city's drinking culture lies in its low-key bars. Laid-back hang-outs with names like Snake and Jake's, the Satellite Bar, and Le Bon Temps Roule attract an interesting mix of students, celebrities, faded intellectuals, and serious barflies. In short, these are marvelous places to blend in and be entertained.

Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

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Acme Oyster House

Fine New Orleans' seafood dishes

724 Iberville Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 522 5973
http://www.acmeoyster.com/

Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This timeless New Orleans establishment has been popular since the management first opened its doors in 1910. Located just off Boubon Street, the seafood house offers its own twist on New Orleans cuisine in a noisy, casual atmosphere. The food is not to be missed. The popular neon sign beckons locals and tourists to the trademark oysters at an unbeatably low price of USD6.49 dozen. If oysters do not tempt your taste buds, try the restaurant's famous Poopas, a French bread bowl filled with sausage and shrimp gumbo or red beans and rice with sausage on the side. This Monday favorite costs USD7.99.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Lilin Liang

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Acme Oyster House photo by Rhonda McElroy

Photo: Rhonda McElroy

Acme Oyster House photo by Jessica Tanny

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Acme Oyster House photo by Frances Heller

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Acme Oyster House photo by Emily Schwenke

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Arnaud's Restaurant

Creole cuisine served in high style 813 Bienville St
New Orleans, LA 70112
+1 504 523 5433/ +1 866 230 8891
http://www.arnauds.com/
reservations@arnauds.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

A dream that began with Arnaud Cazenave in 1918 lives on today. In 1978 the restaurant was acquired by Archie and Jane Casbarian and restored to its original splendor. The refurbished mosaic tile floor, as well as interior columns and antique ceiling fans, recapture the aura or early 20th century New Orleans. This grande dame of Creole cuisine is a sparkling jewel in the crown of New Orleans' fine restaurants. The menu features classic dishes as well as more nouvelle creations. Always excellent is the Shrimp Arnaud in remoulade sauce, the Oyster Stew and the Beef Wellington. Of course, the favorite for dessert is the fine Creme Brulee. Dinner entrees start at $24. A lunch menu features a less expensive table d'hote (fixed-price) selection along with an a la carte menu.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: bigfoot

Aunt Sally's Praline Shops

Creole pralines 810 Decatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
+1 504 524 3373 / +1 800 642 7257
http://www.auntsallys.com/
service@auntsallys.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

At this French Market shop, you know the pralines are fresh because the staff performs the 150-year-old process of cooking the pecan pralines right before your eyes. These confectionery delights are just the right sweet treat for goodie bags, a finishing touch for a dinner party or an indulging snack for yourself. The finest and freshest in original Creole pralines can be found here. Also available is a large selection of regional cookbooks and books on the history of New Orleans.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Rhona

Bacco

Elegant Italian Creole 310 Chartres Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 522 2426
http://www.bacco.com/
jberger@neworleans-food.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

An elegant French Quarter Italian restaurant owned by the famed restaurant entrepreneurs, Ralph and Cindy Brennan. This beautifully designed space features pink Italian marble floors, wall and ceiling murals, Venetian chandeliers, and Gothic arches. The innovative, chic decor fosters an air of romance, which transforms dining couples into Italian lovers. The menu changes with the seasons, but usually includes such lunch appetizers as pan-fried polenta cake over spinach with oven roasted tomatoes and Gorgonzola cream, or a Creole Italian Gumbo with roasted goose, Italian sausage, chicken, and tasso. Entree favorites include Crawfish Ravioli and Hickory Grilled Pork Chops with sweet potato mash and wild mushroom sauce. Decadent delights include frozen cappuccinos or praline cinnamon ice cream sandwiches.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Bayona

Jewel in the crown 430 Dauphine Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
+1 504 525 4455
http://www.bayona.com/ Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This romantic Creole cottage dating back to the 1800s is a jewel in the crown of New Orleans cuisine. Award-winning Chef Susan Spicer also incorporates Alsatian, Asian, Indian and Southwestern style dishes into the menu. The casual atmosphere, combined with the consistency of outstanding service, paves the way for an array of culinary masterpieces. You may choose to dine surrounded by murals of Mediterranean gardens or in a tropical courtyard with real foliage. Along with the expected appetizers of soups and salads, lunch also offers entrees such as the Smoked Duck and Pepper Jelly Sandwich, or Shrimp and Cornbread Stuffed Quail. Dinners feature such tempting tastes as Pecan-Crusted Rabbit.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Dana Gramp
Photo: Jessica Su

Bella Luna

Eclectic continental in the French Quarter 914 North Peters Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
+1 504 529 1583
http://www.bellalunarestaurant...
info@bellalunarestaurant.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

If romantic surroundings and breathtaking views are what you are looking for, then this elegant restaurant is for you. Come see why Glamour magazine voted it "One of the Best Places to Kiss." French-style windows offer a knockout view of ships and boats as they glide by on the river. The kitchen takes an eclectic, Italian-influenced approach to the menu. Pasta dishes, such as penne pasta with roasted eggplant, Gorgonzola peppers and fried herbs in Fontina sauce, start at $15.95. Other fare includes a grouping of delicious quesadillas filled with smoked shrimp and spicy goat cheese. Be sure to try the delightful coconut meringue pie.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Bon Temps Roule

Neighborhood shuck and jive 4801 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70115
+1 504 895 8117 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This chummy restaurant-bar has been a neighborhood fixture since 1979. Its many crowd-pleasing features include daily drink specials and hearty pub grub such as, juicy burgers, chili and po-boys. Kermit Ruffins and his BBQ Swingers perform on Wednesdays. A variety of live bands entertain the crowd Thursday through Saturday. Fridays also, feature shuck and jive, and all-you-can-eat oysters on the half shell. There is never a cover charge, and the well-stocked bar is sure to have your favorite beer.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Dave M

Brennan's

Culinary phenomenon 417 Royal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 525 9711
http://www.brennansneworleans.com
brennansno@aol.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This building, which dates back to 1798, was acquired by the Brennan family in 1943 and transformed into a stunning restaurant with 12 elegantly decorated dining rooms. A beautiful courtyard of magnolia trees and picturesque fountains create the perfect dining atmosphere. Begin breakfast with a Brandy Milk Punch, followed by any one of exquisite entrees, such as Eggs Hussarde, a Brennan's original. Dinner also offers a delightful assortment of delectable options. For dessert, try the famous Bananas Foster, another creation of Brennan's epicureans. Jackets are required for dinner, and reservations are recommended.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Cafe Du Monde

Fresh, hot beignets and world famous coffee 800 Decatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
+1 504 525 4544 / +1 800 772 2927 (Toll Free)
http://www.cafedumonde.com
office@cafedumonde.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This French-market coffee stand, established in 1862, offers a menu of dark coffee and chicory, beignets, white or chocolate milk and freshly-squeezed orange juice. The cafe is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day (except Christmas Day) and is one of the most popular places in New Orleans for singles, couples and families. You may have to wait for a table during the busiest morning hours. While the coffee is certainly good, most people come for the famous, fresh-from-the-fryer beignets. They are brought to your table in such a hurry that they are still hot when you take that first melt-in-your-mouth bite.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Commander's Palace

"Best restaurant in the United States" 1403 Washington Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 899 8221
http://www.commanderspalace.com/ Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Voted "Best Restaurant in the United States" in 1996 by the James Beard Foundation, this eatery lives up to its reputation with exceptional cuisine and a dining experience you will not soon forget. One piece of the package here is the wait staff; the efficient men and women smother guests with attention. Dining rooms vary in size from large to intimate in this 1880s Victorian house in the heart of the Garden District. Jackets are required for dinner and Sunday brunch. Each night features a seven-course fixed price menu for around USD75 per person with changing specials and the option to mix and match off the regular menu. The Turtle Soup is famous. Other standouts include Mississippi roasted quail stuffed with Creole crawfish sausage. There is also an excellent wine list with suggestions for each entree.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Ken Anderson
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Court of Two Sisters

Elegant Creole dining 613 Royal St
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 522 7261
http://www.courtoftwosisters.com/
court2si@courtoftwosisters.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Two Creole sisters who originally owned a notions shop serving only the finest of ladies established this appropriately named restaurant. Constructed in 1880, the restaurant stands on the same site as their first establishment. This historic building is enveloped in an ambiance found only in the Vieux Carre. The main reason to visit this restaurant is for its Jazz Brunch Buffet. It features more than 60 dishes including meat, fowl, fish, vegetables, fresh fruits, homemade bread and pastries. Overall, this Creole dining experience will capture your heart as well as your tastebuds. World-renowned food and a courtyard equally impressive makes this a dining experience not to be missed.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Court of Two Sisters
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Dunbar's Creole Cooking

Family friendly 501 Pine Street
(Loyola University's Broadway Campus)
New Orleans, LA 70118
+1 504 861 5451
http://dunbarscreolecooking.com/ Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This modest uptown eatery is a true family affair putting grandaughters and son-in-laws to work in both the front and back of the restaurant. While your first impression may be that this is a little hole in the wall, it is actually quite big on character. Serving soul food for your mental comfort makes it even larger than life where cuisine is concerned. Menu features include Okra with Shrimp, Greens with Turkey Necks, Candied Yams, Peas, and Cornbread and Biscuits. There is also a great Fried Catfish and Gumbo with a side of Potato Salad. Breakfast offers Smoked Sausage, Pancakes and Fried Liver or Porkchops with Grits. There is no need for reservations as they boast 100 seats upstairs, plus another 100 downstairs.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Emeril's Delmonico New Orleans

Emeril's newest creation 1300 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 525 4937 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This turn-of-the-century restaurant has operated out of an old New Orleans home since 1895. Since its re-establishment in 1997, the restaurant has been in the hands of world-famous chef, Emeril Lagasse. Warm Southern hospitality, as well as memorable food, makes this a popular spot with locals and visitors. As expected, the menu boasts classic items revitalized with Lagasse's inventive style of Creole cuisine. Appetizers such as Turtle au Sherry and Emeril's Barbecue Shrimp are priced from USD6 to USD12. Entrees include Pan Roasted Mississippi Farm Raised Quail, Sautéd Rainbow Trout and Hickory Roasted Duck.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Chuck Dianis
Photo: Monique Judge

Emeril's New Orleans

Famous Creole-Cajun restaurant 800 Tchoupitoulas Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 528 9393
http://www.emerils.com/ Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

A renovated warehouse in the Arts District is home to the flagship restaurant of star chef Emeril Lagasse. This world class dining experience will titillate your taste buds with the finest in Creole cooking and award-winning wines. The chiefly seafood menu includes such signature dishes as Portuguese-Style Steamed Clams and Mussels, Smoked Salmon, and Sundried Tomato Cheesecake. The building's original brick walls and existing water pipes have been rejuvenated into a contemporary jazz decor. Private dining rooms are available for parties or businesses lunches. Valet parking is offered.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Emeril's New Orleans photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

French Quarter

The French Quarter, or Vieux Carre in French, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. It lies in the crescent of the Mississippi River and consists of fairly narrow streets, reminiscent of European city planning, that reveal hidden courtyards and look up to wrought iron balconies. The architecture in the Quarter typically dates to the late 18th- and early 19th-centuries, and draws on French and Spanish influences. In daytime, the French Quarter, especially the area around Jackson Square, is filled with tourists, street performers, and the occasional conman. At night, the French Quarter transforms into the stereotypical party scene. Barhopping college students, adventurous suburbanites, tourists, and practitioners of the world's oldest profession all populate the area until the wee hours.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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Gabrielle Restaurant

Creole/Cajun in an intimate setting 3201 Esplanade Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70119
+1 504 948 6233
http://www.gabriellerestaurant... Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Located in mid-city New Orleans, this popular spot offers contemporary Creole/Cajun cuisine. An upscale, casual decor offers the intimate setting needed for a romantic evening of dining. Because only the freshest ingredients are used in preparing these meals, the menu changes weekly. Recommendations include the Oyster Gabie, Slow Roasted Duck and the Peppermint Patti, a decadent dessert comprised of a slice of brownie cake with homemade peppermint ice cream and warm chocolate sauce.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Garden District

This is the premier New Orleans residential neighborhood, boasting the tremendous oak tree lined Saint Charles Avenue as its most-famed street, and home after home epitomizing the antebellum's Greek Revival architecture. Only a walking tour will do this dazzling district the justice it deserves. If you visit the city, you must see the lush, overgrown gardens and grand mansions that line these streets. The Garden District has many well-known residents, including Trent Reznor, Archie Manning, and Anne Rice, the famous author of many vampire novels.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Chad Woolley
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Gerard's Downtown

Impressive eatery 500 Saint Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 592 0200 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

The proprietor and chef of this impressive avant garde restaurant is Gerard Mara, an alumnus of Commander's Palace and Mr. B's Bistro. The olive-hued walls exude warmth. A simple bar and wine rack is a classic red mahogany. The glass walls permit lovely views of Lafayette Square and the stately columns of Gallier House. The menu is refreshing, with elegant dishes such as the paper-thin ravioli freshly prepared with bits of lobster in saffron sauce and leeks. The herb crusted lamb chops upon satin potatoes baked and layered with cream are also wonderful. The salad selection offers an array of fresh greens picked from the farm of Chef Mara.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Gumbo Shop

Elegant Creole dining 630 St. Peter Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
+1 504 525 1486
http://www.gumboshop.com
restaurant@gumboshop.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Enjoy traditional and comtemporary Creole cuisine in the casual elegance of a restored 1794 cottage. Muraled dining room walls and a lovely garden patio set the stage for a delightful dining experience found only in the heart of the Vieux Carre. A full menu of salads, sandwiches, daily specials and fresh fish are complimented by a large selection of wines by the glass. Menus are available in Spanish, French, Japanese and Braille.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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House of Blues

Live music and tasty cuisine 225 Decatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 529 2624
http://www.hob.com/
HouseofBlues.NewOrleans@postman.hob.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Founded in 1992 by Hard Rock Cafe creator Issac B. Tigrett, this enterprise has grown into a multi-dimensional entertainment company featuring top-name blues, jazz and contemporary acts. Adjacent to each "Music Hall" is a juke joint-inspired restaurant serving "Mississippi Delta-Style" cuisine. Try the slow smoked baby back ribs, the Pacific Rim Tuna Steak or the cedar pan roasted salmon and finish off with the White Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding.

Review © 2007, Wcities

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International House

Boutique hotel 221 Camp Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 553 9550 / +1 800 633 5770 (Toll free)
http://www.ihhotel.com/
reservations@ihhotel.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Located in the downtown, just two blocks from the French Quarter, is New Orleans' first boutique hotel. Built in 1906 and renovated in 1998, the exceptional contemporary style is of the highest quality.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Scott Prouty

K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen

Cajun cooking at its best 416 Chartres Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 524 7394
http://www.kpauls.com/ Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This newly refurbished and expanded house, originally built in 1834, offers Cajun cuisine by Chef Paul Prudhomme, who made his debut in 1979. The main floor remains the first choice for the casual diner. The second floor is more "dressy" and requires reservations. You can also dine on the balcony or in an intimate al fresco courtyard. Chef Paul's cuisine combines Creole and Cajun into what he describes as "Louisiana cooking." Not only is his food authentic, but you would also be hard pressed to find anything fresher. K-Paul's "no freezers" rule applies to everything on the menu, so even the daily specials adhere to this high standard of culinary excellence. Fried catfish fingers and bronzed salmon are just two of the many tantalizing items on the menu.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Bill Walsh
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Liuzza's By The Track

Super cheap eats 1518 North Lopez Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
+1 504 943 8667 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Take a short bus ride down Esplanade Avenue and discover this cafe near the racetrack. Locals have been keeping this favorite haunt a secret for far too long. The no frills appearance offers a Mardi Gras decor, with memorabilia that is never taken down. The kitchen here quite possibly serves the best gumbo in town. You may follow that with fried shrimp, catfish or a platter of oysters. The homemade salad dressings are also delicious.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Mark Wedel

Mandina's

Ultimate New Orleans haunt 3800 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70119
+1 504 482 9179
http://www.madinas.com
tomandina1@cox.net Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Among a long list of funky local joints, this is a classic New Orleans neighborhood restaurant. Owned and operated by the Mandina family since the late 1800s, the menu has not changed much over the last 50 years. And you'll be thankful, because everything they make is quite tasty. Appetizers include fried onion rings, shrimp remoulade and crawfish cakes. Specials range from trout meuniere to red beans and rice with Italian sausage. If you're craving seafood you can't go wrong with the shrimp or oyster loaf (available in season). For the finishing touch, try the Creole bread pudding.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: amyj.nicholson
Photo: sara e wood

Mardi Gras

City-Wide Party 1 Poydras Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
http://www.mardigrasneworleans... Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This carnival is the Crescent City's biggest party of the year and one of the best-known celebrations in the world. Taking place annually on Fat Tuesday (the day before Lent on the Christian calendar) and the days leading up to it, parties begin in the morning and last until midnight. The parades are put on by social clubs called Krewes. Beautiful floats with costumed Krewe members roll down the streets all day long for a week, throwing all kinds of things from the floats to the watching crowds. The most cherished of the "throws" is a golden coconut, which can be had at the Zulu parade on Mardi Gras day. Mardi Gras is also knowned for drunken revelry and streets overflowing with people. If you want to avoid some of the worst of it, make sure you go to some of the uptown parades instead. Please note that prices for everything from hotel rooms to food go through the roof, so bring lots of money and make reservations up to a year in advance.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Rob Holland
Photo: Neil Cooler
Photo: Jonah Langenbeck
Photo: Heatherjeana
Photo: Duncan McKinnon
Photo: Andrew Gallix
Photo: Patrick Duboy
Photo: Joel

Photo: Blake Leyh

Marisol

Cutting edge without the crawfish! 437 Esplanade Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70116
+1 504 943 1912
http://www.marisolrestaurant.com/
food4fuel@aol.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Peter Vasquez is the chef and owner of this corner space restaurant in the Fabourg Marigny. His fusion inspired cuisine strays from the main stream Louisiana fare that even the most ethnic places can't seem to resist. A constantly changing menu boasts such divine appointments as seared hamachi and sage seared veal chop. A fine selection of wines compliments each entree. When the weather is nice they offer outdoor dining.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Marquise

French pastries 625 Chartres Street, The French Quarter
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 524 0420 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

The master baker here is Maurice Delechelle, and you would be hard pressed to find delicacies to beat those found on his shelves. This tiny shop, with its always-crowded front room, features only a display case. If the outside patio is full, then Jackson Square is close by.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Mother's

Mountain size po' boys 401 Poydras Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 523 9656 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

"Good food" and "cheap" are words that foodies in New Orleans love to find all under one roof. The lines here are a true testament to the food, if not to the great prices. The lines really are long- sometimes out the door. So if you're going and it's cool, wear a coat.Things like atmosphere and decor would only increase the overhead expense so they are not relevant here. Pictures of numerous famous patrons line the plain walls; but no one comes for the scenery. It's all about the food, especially the overstuffed po-boys. Also available here some of the best breakfasts in the Crescent City.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Dan Dickinson

NOLA

A contemporary gem by Emeril Lagasse 534 St. Louis Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 522 6652
http://www.emerils.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

The name for this establishment is shorthand for New Orleans, which is the adopted home of the owner, Emeril Lagasse. Surround yourself in the warm wall colors and art work by Lewis Colmenaes as you dine on unique culinary creations that only Emeril could create. As with all of Emeril's establishments, the patron is always the priority. The diverse seafood-dominated menu includes many delicious one-of-a-kind dishes, such as the Homemade Crawfish Dumplings with Hot Chinese Mustard, Crunchy Peanut Salad and Five Spice-Barbecued Baby Back Ribs. Private party rooms are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: J. & C. Estilo

New Orleans Grill

Five diamond restaurant 300 Gravier Street
Windsor Court Hotel
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 522 1992
http://www.windsorcourthotel.com/
neworleansgrill@windsorcourthotel.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Chef Rene Bajeux has mastered 'new' New Orleans cuisine with a distinctive French flair. The 'English comes to the South' character is obvious in the 19th century British paintings and the selection of frog leg tea dishes. Begin your meal with a cup of English tea. Then, move on to entrees such as the Blackened Halibut with jambalaya or a signature dish of Chinese-style smoked lobster with fried spinach and stir-fried vegetables. And finally, order the Grill Room special Crème Brule served with a mountain of fruit.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Parasol's Restaurant & Bar

Mardi Gras party central 2533 Constance Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 899 2054 / +1 504 897 5413
http://www.parasols.com/
jaimjeff@gateway.net Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

Originally built in 1902 as the Irish Channel, it is now known amongst locals as the unofficial party center for Mardi Gras. This underground hangout is popular with regulars and visitors. Five televisions make it a great gathering spot for sports fans. It boasts one of New Orleans' meatiest Po'boys with loads of Sloppy Roast Beef. It also serves local favorites such as Red Beans and Rice, and, of course, Crawfish. Happy Hour is from 4p-7p.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: David Free

Pascal's Manale Restaurant

Uptown restaurant 1838 Napoleon Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70115
+1 504 895 4877 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This uptown restaurant has been famous for its original barbecue shrimp since 1913. If you go, do not expect much decor but the food is so good, you will hardly notice. The establishment's popularity results in a noisy gathering most every night. You do not have to worry though - this is a friendly crowd with social graces. Menu selections include fine seafood, delicious steak, and Italian specialties. Main courses range from $13.95 to $22.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Maitri Venkat-Ramani

Red Room

Sophisticated, swinging supper club 2040 St. Charles Ave
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 528 9759 Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This hot spot features swing music six nights a week and some of the most delicious food in the city. The ambiance takes guests back in time to the 1940s-1960s, with plush elegance that exudes the perfect aura of romance. Popular bands include Al Belletto and his Sinatra show, Christina Machado, Jeremy Davenport and Kaye Dorian. If you come for more than just the music, then Chef Carlos Guja will treat you to culinary masterpieces. Shows start at 8pm. Entrees include a venison chop with pumpkin risotto, seared frios gras with sweet potato galette and grilled diver scallops served in vanilla beurre blanc sauce.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Red Room photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Riverwalk Market Place

Unique shopping mall with a local variety 1 Poydras Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 504 522 1555
http://www.riverwalkmarketplac...
info@riverwalkmarketplace.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

This modern day indoor market place is conveniently located close to the Convention Center and the Aquarium of the Americas. This strategic positioning makes it easily accessible to families touring the museum and to businesspersons hoping to quickly pick up some souvenirs during lunch. The mall is located on the Mississippi River at the junction of Poydras, Canal, and Julia Streets. It is home to 120 stores and restaurants filled with the best gifts, tastes, and styles in New Orleans.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Warehouse District

Having outgrown the once-appropriate title, this historic New Orleans' neighborhood is no longer frequented by blue-collar factory workers. Instead, it is now a vibrant arts district populated by the city's young professionals. Some of the best art galleries in the city sit beside restaurants that offer excellent cuisine. In addition, locals and tourists crowd into the streets of the district during festivals such as Art for Art's Sake, when plenty of wine, cheese, gumbo, and art clutter the sidewalks and the shops.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Tony Seneadza
Photo: Hamutal Davidi
Photo: Allen Frost
Photo: Joel Mann
Photo: Christina L. Jacobs
Photo: anilinet2k
Photo: Catherine R. Wygal

Windsor Court Hotel

Premier luxury hotel for business and pleasure 300 Gravier Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
+1 888 596 0955
http://www.windsorcourthotel.com/
resv@windsorcourthotel.com Due to the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the following description may no longer be accurate. Please consider this when making your travel plans.

The pink granite facade may seem a bit unassuming to the outside observer, but on the inside it is obvious why Windsor holds the title of New Orleans' premier luxury hotel. Accommodations are posh and spacious with all the standard features. Italian marble, antique furnishings, marble baths, French doors, and kitchenettes are just few of the features found in the luxurious suites. Guests can also visit the in-suite spa or relax at the rooftop pool. The downstairs corridors feature classic artwork, and the second floor offers a reading area, yet, amid this splendor, children are welcome.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Dan

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