$= Average entrée price of $5-$10; $$=$11-15; $$$=$16-20; $$$$=$21-25; $$$$$=$25 and up.
5 Fifty 5 Restaurant Marriott Hotel, 555 Canal St., 553-5638, French Quarter, 555Canal.com. B, L, D daily.
This restaurant offers innovative American fare such as lobster macaroni and cheese, seasonal Gulf fish with crab and mâche salad with boudin.
Many of the dishes receive an additional touch from their wood-burning oven. $$$$
7 on Fulton 701 Convention Center Blvd., 525-7555, CBD/Warehouse District, 7onFulton.com. B, L, D daily.
Upscale and contemporary dining destination. $$$$
13 Restaurant and Bar 517 Frenchmen St., 942-1345, Faubourg Marigny, 13Monaghan.com. B, L, D daily, open until 4 a.m.
Late-night deli catering to hungry club-hoppers. Bar and excellent jukebox make this a good place to refuel. $
Abita Brew Pub 72011 Holly St., (985) 892-5837, Abita Springs, AbitaBrewPub.com. L, D Tue-Sun.
Famous for its Purple Haze and Turbodog brews, Abita serves up better-than-expected pub food in their namesake eatery.
“Tasteful” tours available for visitors. $$
Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville St., 522-5973, French Quarter; 3000 Veterans Blvd., 309-4056, Metairie; 1202 N. Highway 190, (985) 246-6155, Covington; AcmeOyster.com. L, D daily.
Known as one of the best places to eat oysters. $$
Aloha Sushi 1051 Annunciation St., 566-0021, Warehouse District, SunRayGrill.com. L, D Tue-Sat.
A large list of rolls, hot rice bowls, Asian-inspired soups, salads, cocktails and more.
Visit for Sake Hour (4-6 p.m.): half-priced sake and three rolls for the price of two. $$
Ancora 4508 Freret St., 324-1636, Uptown, AncoraPizza.com. L Fri-Sat, D Mon-Sat.
Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza fired in an oven imported from Naples keeps pizza connoisseurs coming back to this Freret Street hot-spot.
The housemade charcuterie makes it a double-winner. New Orleans Magazine’s 20011 Pizza Restaurant of the Year. $$
New Wining and Dining Options from Chef Andrea
3100 19th St., Metairie, 834-8583, AndreasRestaurant.com
Chef Andrea Apuzzo, of Metairie restaurant Andrea’s, is offering couples more on and off-site catering options for 2014 weddings. Chef Apuzzo’s own wines, made from grapes in his vineyards in Anacapri, Italy, will be available in both red and white varieties, as will his limoncello, made in Louisiana from local lemons. Food options will run from freshly made bread and pizza in his wood-burning oven to rotisserie lamb, beef, pork, quail and duckling. Having started cooking in Italy at the age of 7, chef Apuzzo has been bringing a taste of Italy to the greater New Orleans area for the last 29 years. – Mirella cameran
Andrea’s Restaurant 3100 19th St., 834-8583, Metairie, AndreasRestaurant.com. L Mon-Sat D daily, Br Sun.
Indulge in osso buco and homemade pastas in a setting that’s both elegant and intimate; off-premise catering.
New Orleans Magazine Honor Roll honoree 2009. $$$
Antoine’s 713 St. Louis St., 581-4422, French Quarter, Antoines.com. L Mon-Sat, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun.
This pinnacle of haute cuisine and birthplace of Oysters Rockefeller is New Orleans’ oldest restaurant. (Every item is á la carte, with an $11 minimum.) Private dining rooms are available. $$$$$
Arnaud’s 813 Bienville St., 523-5433, French Quarter, Arnauds.com. D daily, Br Sun.
Waiters in tuxedos prepare Café Brulot tableside at this storied Creole grande dame in the French Quarter; live jazz during Sun. brunch.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2011 Honor Roll winner. $$$$$
Audubon Clubhouse 6500 Magazine St., 212-5282, Uptown. B, L Tue-Sat, Br Sun.
Nested among the oaks in Audubon Park, the beautifully situated clubhouse is open to the public and features a kid-friendly menu with New Orleans tweaks and a casually upscale sandwich and salad menu for adults. $$
August Moon 3635 Prytania St., 899-5129, 899-5122, Uptown, MoonNola.com. L, D Mon-Fri, D Sat.
Lots of vegetarian offerings and reasonable prices make this dependable Chinese/Vietnamese place a popular choice for students and locals.
Take-out and delivery available. $
Austin’s 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., 888-5533, Metairie, AustinsNo.com. D Mon-Sat.
Mr. Ed’s upscale bistro serves contemporary Creole fare, including seafood and steaks. $$$
The Avenue Pub 1732 St. Charles Ave., 586-9243, Uptown, TheAvenuePub.com. L, D daily (kitchen open 24 hours a day).
With more than 47 rotating draft beers, this pub also offers food including a cheese plate from St. James Cheese Co., a crab cake sandwich and the “Pub Burger.” $
Bacchanal Fine Wines and Spirits 600 Poland Ave., 948-9111, Bywater, BacchanalWine.com. L, D daily.
The pop-up that started it all, this ongoing backyard music and food fest in the heart of Bywater carries the funky flame.
Best of all, the front of house is a wine shop. $$
Barcelona Tapas 720 Dublin St., 861-9696, Riverbend, LetsEat.at/BarcelonaTapas. D Tue-Sun.
Barcelona Tapas is chef-owner Xavier Laurentino’s homage to the small-plates restaurants he knew from his hometown of Barcelona.
The tapas are authentic, and the space, renovated largely by Laurentino himself, is charming. $
Basil Leaf Restaurant 1438 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-9001, Uptown, BasilLeafThai.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily.
Thai food and sushi bar with a contemporary spin is served in this date-friendly establishment; private rooms available. $$
Basin Seafood & Spirits 3222 Magazine St., 302-7391, Uptown. L, D Tue-Sat.
The focus is on seafood at this uncluttered, contemporary joint venture between Colombian chef Edgar Caro from Barü Bistro & Tapas and Louisiana fishing guide Tommy Peters.
Their generally lighter approach is represented in dishes such as whole grilled snapper as well as traditional favorites such as spicy boiled crawfish (in season). $$
Bayona 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455, French Quarter, Bayona.com. L Wed-Sat, D Mon-Sat.
Chef Susan Spicer’s nationally acclaimed cuisine is served in this 200-year-old cottage.
Ask for a seat on the romantic patio, weather permitting. $$$$$
The Beach House 2401 N. Woodlawn St., 456-7470, Metairie. L, D daily.
Gumbo, steaks, lobsters, burgers and seafood are accompanied by live music each and every night. $$$
Besh Steak Harrah’s Casino, 8 Canal St., 533-6111, CBD/Warehouse District, HarrahsNewOrleans.com. D daily.
Acclaimed chef John Besh reinterprets the classic steakhouse with his signature contemporary Louisiana flair.
New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007. $$$$$
Bistro Daisy 5831 Magazine St., 899-6987, Uptown, BistroDaisy.com. D, Tue-Sat.
Chef Anton Schulte and his wife Diane’s bistro, named in honor of their daughter, serves creative and contemporary bistro fare in a romantic setting along Magazine Street.
The signature Daisy Salad is a favorite. $$$$
Blue Plate Café 1330 Prytania St., 309-9500, Uptown. B, L Mon-Fri.
Breakfasts and lunches are the hallmarks of this neighborhood spot. The Ignatius sandwich comes equipped with 10 inches of paradise. $
The Bombay Club Prince Conti Hotel, 830 Conti St., 586-0972, French Quarter, TheBombayClub.com. D daily.
Popular martini bar appointed with plush British décor features live music during the week and late dinner and drinks on weekends. Nouveau Creole menu includes items such as Bombay drum. $$$$
Bon Ton Cafe 401 Magazine St., 524-3386, CBD/Warehouse District, TheBonTonCafe.com. L, D Mon-Fri.
A local favorite for the old-school business lunch crowd, it specializes in local seafood and Cajun dishes. $$$$
Boucherie 8115 Jeannette St., 862-5514, Riverbend, Boucherie-Nola.com. L, D Tue-Sat.
Serving contemporary Southern food with an international angle, Chef Nathaniel Zimet offers excellent ingredients, presented simply.
New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2009. $$
Brigtsen’s 723 Dante St., 861-7610, Uptown, Brigtsens.com. D Tue-Sat.
Chef Frank Brigtsen’s nationally-famous Creole cuisine makes this cozy Riverbend cottage a true foodie destination. $$$$$
Broken Egg Cafe 200 Girod St., (985) 231-7125, Mandeville. B, Br, L daily.
Breakfast-centric café in turn-of-the-century home offers a sprawling assortment of delicious items both healthy and decadent. $$
Brooklyn Pizzeria 4301 Veterans Blvd., 833-1288, Metairie, EatBrooklyn.net. L, D daily (Drive thru/take out).
Pie shop on Vets specializes in New York-style thin crust.
The pizza is the reason to come, but sandwiches and salads are offered as well. $
Warehouse Grille creates one big burger
869 Magazine St., 322-2188, WarehouseGrille.com
Warehouse Grille in downtown New Orleans is now serving what might be the biggest burger in the city: A 10-ounce patty is contained between two three-cheese grilled sandwiches, dressed with four pieces of bacon, four onion rings and 12 fried pickles, all served with a side of fries. The burger joins an extensive menu at the Grille, which is just celebrating its first anniversary. The place has quickly earned a reputation for game days, free live music, bottomless mimosas, 40 drafts of beer, daily specials and lots of happy hours. – M.c.
Byblos 1501 Metairie Road, 834-9773, Metairie; 3342 Magazine St., 894-1233, Uptown;
3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., 830-7333 Metairie; 29 McAlister Drive, Tulane University; 2020 Veterans Blvd., 837-9777; ByblosRestaurants.com. L, D daily.
Upscale Middle Eastern cuisine featuring traditional seafood, lamb and vegetarian options. $$
Café Adelaide Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras St., 595-3305, CBD/Warehouse District, CafeAdelaide.com. B, D daily, L Mon-Fri.
This offering from the Commander’s Palace family of restaurants has become a power-lunch favorite for businessmen and politicos.
Also features the Swizzle Stick Bar. $$$$
Café Burnside Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, Darrow, HoumasHouse.com. L daily, Br Sun.
Historic plantation’s casual dining option features dishes such as seafood pasta, fried catfish, crawfish and shrimp, gumbo and red beans and rice. $$
Café Degas 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635, Mid-City, CafeDegas.com. L Wed-Sat, D Wed-Sun, Br Sun.
Light French bistro food including salads and quiche make this indoor/outdoor boîte a Faubourg St. John favorite.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 French Restaurant of the Year. $$$
Café du Monde 800 Decatur St., 525-0454, French Quarter; One Poydras Suite 27, 587-0841, New Orleans;
3301 Veterans Blvd., Suite 104, 834-8694, Metairie; 1401 West Esplanade, Suite 100, 468-3588, Kenner;
4700 Veterans Blvd., 888-9770, Metairie; 1814 N. Causeway Approach, Suite 1, (985) 951-7474, Mandeville; CafeDuMonde.com.
This New Orleans institution has been serving fresh café au lait, rich hot chocolate and positively addictive beignets since 1862 in the French Market 24/7. $
Café Equator 2920 Severn Ave., 888-4772, Metairie, CafeEquator.com. L, D daily.
Very good Thai food across the street from Lakeside Mall.
Offers a quiet and oft-overlooked dining option in a crowded part of town. $$
Café Freret 7329 Freret St., 861-7890, Uptown, CafeFreret.com. B, L, D Fri-Wed.
Convenient location near Tulane and Loyola universities makes this a place for students (and dogs) to indulge in decadent breakfasts, casual lunches and tasty dinners – and their “A la Collar” menu. $$
Café Giovanni 117 Decatur St., 529-2154, Downtown, CafeGiovanni.com. D daily.
Live opera singers three nights a week round out the atmosphere at this contemporary Italian dining destination.
The menu offers a selection of Italian specialties tweaked with a Creole influence and their Belli Baci happy hour adds to the atmosphere. $$$$
Café Luna 802 Nashville Ave., 269-2444, Uptown. B, L daily. 
Charismatic coffee shop in a converted house offers a range of panini, caffeinated favorites and free Wi-Fi.
The front porch is a prime spot for people-watching along adjacent Magazine Street. $
Café Maspero 601 Decatur St., 523-6250, French Quarter. L, D daily.
Tourists line up for their generous portions of seafood and large deli sandwiches. $
Café Minh 4139 Canal St., 482-6266, Mid-City, CafeMinh.com. L Mon-Fri., D Mon-Sat.
Chef Minh Bui and Cynthia Vutran bring their fusion-y touch with Vietnamese cuisine to this corner location.
French accents and a contemporary flair make this one of the more notable cross-cultural venues in town. New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Maître D’ of the Year. $$
Café Negril 606 Frenchmen St., 944-4744, Marigny. D daily.
This music club draws locals in with their lineup of live reggae and blues. Tacos and BBQ in back are a plus for late-night revelers. $
Café Nino 1510 S. Carrollton Ave., 865-9200, Carrollton. L, D daily.
Nondescript exterior belies old-school Italian hideaway serving up red-sauce classics like lasagna, along with some of the more under-the-radar New York-style thin crust pizza in town. $$
Café Opera 541 Bourbon St., 648-2331, Inside Four Points by Sheraton, French Quarter. B, L daily, D Thu-Sat.
Chef Philippe Andreani serves Creole and Continental classics on the site of the old French Opera House.
Choices include crabmeat beignets with corn maque choux as well as fried green tomatoes with shrimp remoulade.
Validated parking is offered for dine-in. Free valet parking. $$$
Cake Café 2440 Chartres St., 943-0010, Marigny, NolaCakes.com. B, L daily.
The name may read cakes but this café, helmed by head baker Steve Himelfarb, offers a whole lot more, including fresh baked goods and a full breakfast menu along with sandwiches. A popular place to while away a slow New Orleans morning with a coffee and a slice. $
Camellia Grill 626 S. Carrollton Ave., 309-2679, Uptown; 540 Chartres St., 533-6250, Downtown. B, L, D daily, until 1 a.m. Sun-Thu and 3 a.m. Fri-Sat.
The venerable diner has reopened following an extensive renovation and change in ownership (in 2006).
Patrons can rest assured that its essential character has remained intact and many of the original waiters have returned.
The new downtown location has a liquor license and credit cards are now accepted. $
Capdeville 520 Capdeville St., 371-5161, French Quarter, CapdevilleNola.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
Capdeville is an upscale bar-bistro with a short but interesting menu of food that’s a mix of comfort and ambition.
Burgers are on offer, but so are fried red beans and rice – a take on calas or Italian arancini. $$
Carmo 527 Julia St., 875-4132, Warehouse District, CafeCarmo.com. L Mon-Sat., D Tue-Sat.
Caribbean-inspired fare offers a creative array of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free fare in a sleek location on Julia Street.
One of the few places in the city where healthy dining is celebrated rather than accommodated. $$
Carmelo Ristorante 1901 Highway 190, (985) 624-4844, Mandeville, RistoranteCarmelo.com. L, D Wed-Fri, Sun-Mon.
Italian trattoria serves old-world classics. Private rooms available. $$
Casamento’s 4330 Magazine St., 895-9761, Uptown, CasamentosRestaurant.com. L Tue-Sat, D Thu-Sat.
The family-owned restaurant has shucked oysters and fried seafood since 1919; closed during summer and for all major holidays. $$
CC’s Community Coffee House Multiple locations in New Orleans, Metairie and Northshore, CCsCoffee.com.
Coffeehouse specializing in coffee, espresso drinks and pastries. $
Chateau du Lac 2037 Metairie Road, 831-3773, Old Metairie, ChateauduLacBistro.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
This casual French bistro, run by chef-owner Jacques Saleun, offers up classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin and blanquette de veau.
A Provençal-inspired atmosphere and French wine round out the appeal. $$$$
Checkered Parrot 132 Royal St., 592-1270, French Quarter; 3629 Prytania St., Uptown; CheckeredParrot.com. B, L, D daily.
The Checkered Parrot is an upscale sports bar with a large menu, featuring nachos, fajitas, wings in seven flavors, wraps and burgers and an outdoor patio. $$
Chiba 8312 Oak St., 826-9119, Carrollton, chiba-nola.com. L Thu-Sat, D Mon-Sat.
Contemporary restaurant on Oak Street features an extensive list of special rolls, steamed buns and fusion-y fare to go along with typical Japanese options.
Late night hours are a plus. $$$
Chophouse New Orleans 322 Magazine St., 522-7902, CBD, ChophouseNola.com. D daily.
In addition to USDA prime grade aged steaks prepared under a broiler that reaches 1,700 degrees, Chophouse offers lobster, redfish and classic steakhouse sides. $$$
Clancy’s 6100 Annunciation St., 895-1111, Uptown, ClancysNewOrleans.com. L Thu-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
Their Creole-inspired menu has been a favorite of locals for years. $$$
Cochon 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 588-2123, CBD/Warehouse District, CochonRestaurant.com. L, D, Mon-Sat.
Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski showcase Cajun and Southern cuisine at this Warehouse District hot spot.
Boudin and other pork dishes reign supreme here, along with Louisiana seafood and real moonshine from the bar.
New Orleans Magazine named Link Chef of the Year 2009.
Reservations strongly recommended. $$
Commander’s Palace 1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221, Uptown, CommandersPalace.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun.
The Grande Dame in the Garden District is going strong under the auspices of chef Tory McPhail.
The turtle soup might be the best in the city, and its weekend Jazz Brunch is a great deal. $$$$
Cooter Brown’s 509 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9104, Uptown, CooterBrowns.com. L, D daily.
Riverbend-area sports bar serves up the city’s largest selection of beers along with great bar food.
The cheese fries are a rite of passage, and the Radiator’s Special poor boy makes for a great late-night meal. $
Copeland’s 701 Veterans Blvd., 831-3437, Metairie; 1001 S. Clearview Parkway, 620-7800, Jefferson;
1319 West Esplanade Ave., 617-9146, Kenner; 1700 Lapalco Blvd., 364-1575, Harvey;
680 N. Highway 190, (985) 809-9659, Covington; 1337 Gause Blvd., (985) 643-0001, Slidell; CopelandsofNewOrleans.com. L, D daily, Br Sun.
Al Copeland’s namesake chain includes favorites such as Shrimp Ducky. Popular for lunch. $$
Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro 4517 Veterans Blvd., 454-7620, Metairie; 2001 St. Charles Ave., 593-9955, Garden District; CopelandsCheesecakeBistro.com. L, D daily.
Dessert fans flock to this sweet-centric Copeland establishment which also offers extensive lunch and dinner menus. $$$
Coquette 2800 Magazine St., 265-0421, Uptown, Coquette-Nola.com. Br Sun, L Tue-Sat, D daily.
A bistro located at the corner of Washington and Magazine streets.
The food is French in inspiration and technique, with added imagination from chef Michael Stoltzfus (New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Chef 2009) and his partner Lillian Hubbard. $$$
Corky’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant 4243 Veterans Blvd., 887-5000, Metairie, CorkysBarBQ.com. L, D daily.
Memphis-based barbecue chain offers good hickory-smoked ribs, pork and beef in a family setting with catering service available. $
Court of Two Sisters 613 Royal St., 522-7261, French Quarter, CourtOfTwoSisters.com. Br, D daily.
The historic environs make for a memorable outdoor dining experience.
The famous daily Jazz Brunch buffet and classic Creole dishes sweeten the deal. $$$$$
Crabby Jack’s 428 Jefferson Highway, 833-2722, Jefferson. L Mon-Sat.
Lunch outpost of Jacques-Imo’s chef and owner Jack Leonardi.
Famous for its fried seafood and poor boys including fried green tomatoes and roasted duck. $
Crépes a la Carte 1039 Broadway St., 866-236, Uptown, CrepeCaterer.com. B, L, D daily. Open late.
An extensive menu of tasty crêpes, both savory and sweet, make this a great spot for a quick bite for college students and locals. $
Crescent City Brewhouse 527 Decatur St., 522-0571, French Quarter, CrescentCityBrehouse.com. L, D daily.
Contemporary brewpub features an eclectic menu complementing its freshly-brewed wares.
Live jazz and good location make it a fun place to meet up. $$$
Crescent City Steakhouse 1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271, Mid-City, CrescentCitySteaks.com. L Tue-Fri & Sun, D daily.
One of the classic New Orleans steakhouses, it’s a throwback in every sense of the term.
Steaks, sides and drinks are what you get at Crescent City. New Orleans Magazine’s Steakhouse of the Year 2009 and Honor Roll honoree 2007. $$$$
Criollo 214 Royal St., Hotel Monteleone, 681-4444, French Quarter, HotelMonteleone.com/Criollo. B, L, D daily.
Next to the famous Carousel Bar in the historic Monteleone Hotel, Criollo represents an amalgam of the various cultures reflected in Louisiana cooking and cuisine, often with a slight contemporary twist. $$$
The Crystal Room Le Pavillon Hotel, 833 Poydras St., 581-3111, CBD/Warehouse District, LePavillon.com. B, D daily; L, Mon-Fri.
Franco-American cuisine with Louisiana influences is served in the environs of the Le Pavillon Hotel.
The Southern-style breakfast features its decadent Bananas Foster Waffle “Le Pavillon.” $$$
Dakota 629 N. Highway 190, (985) 892-3712, Covington, TheDakotaRestaurant.com. D Mon-Sat.
A sophisticated dining experience with generous portions. $$$$$
The Delachaise 3442 St. Charles Ave., 895-0858, Uptown, TheDelachaise.com. L Fri-Sat, D daily.
Elegant bar food fit for the wine connoisseur; kitchen open late. $$
Dick and Jenny’s 4501 Tchoupitoulas St., 894-9880, Uptown, DickAndJennys.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
A funky cottage serving Louisiana comfort food with flashes of innovation. $$$$
Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House 144 Bourbon St., 522-0111, French Quarter, BourbonHouse.com. B, L, D daily.
Classic Creole dishes such as redfish on the halfshell and baked oysters are served with classic Brennan’s style at this French Quarter outpost.
Its extensive bourbon menu will please aficionados. New Orleans Magazine’s 2011 Oyster Bar of the Year. $$$$
Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse 716 Iberville St., 522-2467, French Quarter, DickieBrennansSteakhouse.com. L Fri, D daily.
Nationally recognized steakhouse serves USDA Prime steaks and local seafood in a New Orleans setting with the usual Brennan’s family flair. $$$$$
Domenica The Roosevelt Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 648-6020, CBD, DomenicaRestaurant.com. L, D daily.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Chef of the Year Alon Shaya serves authentic, regional Italian cuisine in John Besh’s sophisticated new restaurant.
The menu of thin, lightly topped pizzas, artisanal salumi and cheese, and a carefully chosen selection of antipasti, pasta and entrées, feature locally raised products, some from Besh’s Northshore farm. $$$$
Domilise’s 5240 Annunciation St., 899-9126, Uptown. L, D Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat.
Local institution and rite-of-passage for those wanting an initiation to the real New Orleans.
Wonderful poor boys and a unique atmosphere make this a one-of-a-kind place. $
Dong Phuong 14207 Chef Menteur Highway, 254-0296, N.O. East. L Wed-Mon.
Vietnamese bakery and restaurant in the community of Versailles makes great banh mi sandwiches and interesting baked goods both savory and sweet.
Unbeatable prices. $
Drago’s 3232 N. Arnoult Road, 888-9254, Metairie; Hilton Riverside Hotel, 2 Poydras St., 584-3911, CBD/Warehouse District;
DragosRestaurant.com. L, D daily (Hilton), L, D Mon-Sat (Metairie).
This famous seafooder specializes in charbroiled oysters, a dish they invented.
Raucous but good-natured atmosphere makes this a fun place to visit. Great deals on fresh lobster as well. $$$$
Dry Dock Cafe & Bar 133 Delaronde St., 361-8240, Algiers, TheDryDockCafe.com. Br Sun, L, D daily.
Fancier daily specials have been added to the menu of this casual neighborhood seafood joint in historic Algiers Point near the ferry landing.
Burgers, sandwiches and fried seafood are the staples. $$
El Gato Negro 81 French Market Place, 525-9752, French Quarter, B Sat-Sun, L. D daily; 300 Harrison Ave., 488-0107, Lakeview, L, D Tue-Sun; 3001 Ormond Blvd. (985) 307-0460,
Destrehan, L, D Tue-Sun. ElGatoNegroNola.com.
Popular spot near the Frenchmen Street clubs serves up authentic Central Mexican cuisine along with hand-muddled mojitos and margaritas made with freshly squeezed juice.
A weekend breakfast menu is an additional plus. $$
Elizabeth’s 601 Gallier St., 944-9272, Bywater, ElizabethsRestaurantNola.com. B, L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun.
This eclectic local restaurant draws rave reviews for its Praline Bacon and distinctive Southern-inspired brunch specials. $$$
Emeril’s 800 Tchoupitoulas St., 528-9393, CBD/Warehouse District, Emerils.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily.
The flagship of superstar chef Emeril Lagasse’s culinary empire, this landmark attracts pilgrims from all over the world. $$$$$
Feelings Café 2600 Chartres St., 945-2222, Faubourg Marigny, FeelingsCafe.com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun.
Romantic ambiance and skillfully created dishes, such as veal d’aunoy, make dining here on the patio a memorable experience.
A piano bar on Fridays adds to the atmosphere. Vegan menu offered. $$$$
Fellini’s Café 900 N. Carrollton Ave., 488-2155, Mid-City, FellinisNewOrleans.com. L, D daily.
With décor inspired by its namesake Italian filmmaker, this casual indoor/outdoor spot serves large portions of reasonably-priced Mediterranean specialties such as pizza, pastas and hummus. $
Fiesta Latina 1924 Airline Drive, 468-2384, Kenner, FiestaLatinaRestaurant.com. B, L, D Tue-Sun.
A big-screen TV normally shows a soccer match or MTV Latino at this home for authentic Central American food.
Tacos include a charred carne asada. New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Latin Restaurant of the Year. $$
Five Happiness 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935, Mid-City, FiveHappiness.com. L, D daily.
This longtime Chinese favorite offers up an extensive menu including its beloved mu shu pork and house baked duck.
It is a popular choice for families as well. $$
Flaming Torch 737 Octavia St., 895-0900, Uptown, FlamingTorchNola.com. L, D daily, Br Sun.
French classics including a tasty onion soup make this a nice place for a slightly upscale lunch while shopping along Magazine Street. $$
Frank’s 933 Decatur St., 525-1602, French Quarter, FranksRestaurantNewOrleans.com. L, D daily.
Locally inspired Italian sandwiches such as muffulettas and Genoa salami poor boys are served here in the heart of the French Quarter. $$$
Galatoire’s 209 Bourbon St., 525-2021, French Quarter, Galatoires.com. L, D Tue-Sun.
Friday lunches are a New Orleans tradition at this world-famous French-Creole grand dame.
Tradition counts for everything here, and the crabmeat Sardou is delicious.
Note: Jackets required for dinner and all day Sun. $$$$$
Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak 215 Bourbon St., 335-3932, French Quarter. L Friday, D daily.
Steakhouse offshoot of the venerable Creole Grande Dame offers hand-crafted cocktails to accompany classic steakhouse fare as well as inspired dishes like the Gouté 33 – horseradish-crusted bone marrow and deviled eggs with crab ravigote and smoked trout. Reservations are accepted. $$$
Galley Seafood 2535 Metairie Road, 832-0955, Metairie. L, D Tue-Sat.
A great local place for seafood, both fried and boiled. Famous for its softshell crab poor boy, a Jazz Fest favorite. $$
Gautreau’s 1728 Soniat St., 899-7397, Uptown, GautreausRestaurant.com. D, Mon-Sat. Upscale destination serves refined interpretations of classics along with contemporary creations in a clubby setting nested deep within a residential neighborhood. New Orleans Magazine named Sue Zemanick Chef of the Year 2008. $$$$$
Gott Gourmet Café 3100 Magazine St., 373-6579, Uptown, GottGourmetCafe.com. B Sat-Sun, L, Tue-Sun, D Tue-Fri.
Upscale-casual restaurant serves a variety of specialty sandwiches, salads and wraps, like the Chicago-style hot dog and the St. Paddy’s Day Massacre – Chef Gotter’s take on the Rueben. $$
Gracious Bakery + Café 1000 S. Jeff Davis Parkway, Suite 100, 301-3709, Mid-City, GraciousBakery.com. B, L Mon-Sat.
Boutique bakery in the ground floor of the new Woodward Building offers small-batch coffee, baked goods, individual desserts and sandwiches on breads made in-house.
Catering options are available as well. $
The Green Goddess 307 Exchange Alley, 301-3347, French Quarter, GreenGoddessNola.com. L, D Wed-Sun.
Located in a tiny space, the Green Goddess is one of the most imaginative restaurants in New Orleans.
The menu is constantly changing, and chef Paul Artigues always has ample vegetarian options.
Combine all of that with a fantastic selection of drinks, wine and beer, and it’s the total (albeit small) package. $$
The Grill Room Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 522-1994, CBD/Warehouse District, GrillRoomNewOrleans.com. B, L, D daily, Br Sun.
Jazz Brunch on Sunday with live music. Featuring modern American cuisine with a distinctive New Orleans flair, the adjacent Polo Club Lounge offers live music nightly. $$$$$
GW Fins 808 Bienville St., 581-FINS (3467), French Quarter, GWFins.com. D daily.
To ensure the best possible flavors at GW Fins, owners Gary Wollerman and New Orleans Magazine’s 2005 and 2001 Chef of the Year Tenney Flynn provide dishes at their seasonal peak by flying in products from around the globe.
That commitment to freshness and quest for unique variety are two of the reasons why the menu is printed daily. $$$$$
Herbsaint 701 St. Charles Ave., 524-4114, CBD/Warehouse District, Herbsaint.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail before sampling Chef Donald Link’s (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2009) menu that melds contemporary bistro fare with classic Louisiana cuisine.
The banana brown butter tart is a favorite dessert. $$$$$
Horinoya 920 Poydras St., 561-8914, CBD/Warehouse District. L Mon-Fri, D daily.
Excellent Japanese dining in an understated and oft-overlooked location.
The chu-toro is delicious and the selection of authentic Japanese appetizers is the best in the city. $$$
Hoshun Restaurant 1601 St. Charles Ave., 302-9716, Garden District, HoshunRestaurant.com. L, D daily.
Hoshun offers a wide variety of Asian cuisines, primarily dishes culled from China, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia.
Their five-pepper calamari is a tasty way to begin the meal, and their creative sushi rolls are good as well. $$
House of Blues 225 Decatur St., 310-4999, French Quarter, HouseOfBlues.com. L, D daily.
World-famous Gospel Brunch every Sunday.
Surprisingly good menu makes this a complement to the music in the main room.
Patio seating is available as well. $$
Il Posto Café 4607 Dryades St., 895-2620, Uptown, ilPostoCafe-Nola.com. B, L, D Tue-Sat, B, L Sun.
Italian café specializes in pressed panini, like their Milano, featuring sopressata, Fontina, tomatoes and balsamic on ciabatta.
Soups, imported coffee and H&H bagels make this a comfortable neighborhood spot to relax with the morning paper. $
Edible Arrangements offers new Valentine Bouquets
1650 Gretna Blvd., Harvey, 367-7798, EdibleArrangements.com
If you can’t decide between flowers or chocolates for Valentine’s Day, combine both with new Valentine Bouquets from Edible Arrangements. Combinations of semi-sweet chocolate-dipped strawberries, heart-shaped pineapple, fresh strawberries and grapes are arranged into bundles that look great and don’t deliver a hefty calorie count. Bouquets run from $37 to $129 with a guaranteed delivery service. Not a romantic? Edible Arrangements offer a gifting alternative for any occasion in addition to their new fresh fruit cupcakes and fresh fruit truffles. – M.c.
Impastato’s 3400 16th St., 455-1545, Metairie, Impastatos.com. D Tue-Sat.
Bustling Italian restaurant on the edge of Fat City serves homemade pasta in a convivial atmosphere.
Chef/Owner Joe Impastato greets guests warmly and treats them like family.
The prix fixe options are a good way to taste a lot for not much money. $$$$
Irene’s Cuisine 539 St. Philip St., 529-8811, French Quarter. D Mon-Sat.
Long waits at the lively piano bar are part of the appeal of this Creole-Italian favorite beloved by locals.
Try the oysters Irene and crabmeat gratin appetizers. $$$$
Iris 321 N. Peters St., 299-3944, French Quarter, IrisNewOrleans.com. L Fri, D Mon, Wed-Sat.
This inviting bistro offers sophisticated fare in a charming setting.
The veal cheek ravioli is a winner. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2006. $$$$
Jack Dempsey’s 738 Poland Ave., 943-9914, Bywater, JackDempseysLLC.com. L Tue-Sat, D Wed-Sat.
Local favorite nestled deep in the heart of the Bywater is known for its stuffed flounder and baked macaroni served in generous portions. $$$
Jacques-Imo’s Cafe 8324 Oak St., 861-0886, Uptown, JacquesImosCafe.com. D Mon-Sat.
Reinvented New Orleans cuisine served in a party atmosphere are the cornerstones of this Oak Street institution.
The deep-fried roast beef poor boy is delicious. The lively bar scene offsets the long wait on weekends. $$$$
Jamila’s Mediterranean Tunisian Cuisine 7808 Maple St., 866-4366, Uptown. D Tue-Sun.
Intimate and exotic bistro serving Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine.
The Grilled Merguez is a Jazz Fest favorite and vegetarian options are offered. $$
Jeff’s Creole Grille 5241 Veterans Blvd., 889-7992, Metairie, JeffsCreoleGrille.com. L, D Mon-Sat, Br Sun.
This quaint, upscale restaurant offers a variety of classic New Orleans cuisine, fresh fish and homemade soups and salads with early bird and daily chef specials. $$
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Café 1104 Decatur St., 592-2565, French Quarter, MargaritavilleNewOrleans.com. L, D daily.
Parrotheads and other music lovers flock to Jimmy’s outpost along the more local-friendly stretch of Decatur.
Strong bar menu and stronger drinks keep them coming back. $$
Joey K’s 3001 Magazine St., 891-0997, Uptown, JoeyKsRestaurant.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
A true neighborhood New Orleans restaurant with daily lunch plates keeps it real; red beans and rice are classic. $
The Joint 701 Mazant St., 949-3232, Bywater, AlwaysSmokin.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
Some of the city’s best barbecue can be had at this locally owned and operated favorite in Bywater. $
Juan’s Flying Burrito 2018 Magazine St., 569-0000, Uptown; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950, Mid-City. L, D daily.
Hard-core tacos and massive burritos are served in an edgy atmosphere. $
Jung’s Golden Dragon 3009 Magazine St., Uptown, jungschinese.com. L, D daily.
This Chinese destination is a real find. Along with the usual you’ll find spicy cold noodle dishes and dumplings.
This is one of the few local Chinese places that breaks the Americanized mold.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Chinese Restaurant of the Year. $
Kosher Cajun New York Deli and Grocery 3519 Severn Ave., 888-2010, Metairie, KosherCajun.com. L Mon-Fri & Sun, D Mon-Thu.
Great kosher meals and complete kosher grocery in the rear make this Metairie eatery a unique destination.
The matzo ball soup is a winner and catering is available for parties of any size. $
K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen 416 Chartres St., 596-2930, French Quarter, ChefPaul.com/KPaul. L Thu-Sat, D Mon-Sat.
Paul Prudhomme’s landmark restaurant helped introduce Cajun food to a grateful nation.
Lots of seasoning and bountiful offerings, along with reserved seating, make this a destination for locals and tourists alike. $$$$
Kyoto 4920 Prytania St., 891-3644, Uptown, KyotoNola.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
A neighborhood sushi restaurant where the regulars order off-the-menu rolls. $$
La Boca 857 Fulton St., 525-8205, Warehouse District, LaBocaSteaks.com. D Mon-Sat.
This Argentine steakhouse specializes in cuts of meat along with pastas and wines.
Specials include the provoleta appetizer and the Vacio flank steak.
New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2006 & 2010 Steakhouse of the Year. $$$
Lakeview Harbor 911 Harrison Ave., 486-4887, Lakeview, BestNewOrleansBurger.com. L, D daily.
Burgers are the name of the game here at this restaurant which shares a pedigree with Snug Harbor and Port of Call.
Rounded out with a loaded baked potato, their half-pound patties are sure to please. Daily specials, pizza and steaks are offered as well. $
La Macarena Pupuseria & Latin Cafe 8120 Hampson St., 862-5252, Uptown. L, D Mon-Fri, Br, L, D Sat & Sun.
This cash-only and BYOB restaurant has recently overhauled their menu, now including a large selection of vegan and vegetarian items, as well as a tapas menu. $$
La Petite Grocery 4238 Magazine St., 891-3377, Uptown, LaPetiteGrocery.com. L Tue-Sat, D daily.
Elegant dining in a convivial atmosphere quickly made this place an Uptown darling.
The menu is heavily French-inspired with an emphasis on technique. $$$
La Provence 25020 Highway 190, (985) 626-7662, Lacombe, LaProvenceRestaurant.com. D Wed-Sun, Br Sun.
John Besh (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007) upholds time-honored Provençal cuisine and rewards his guests with a true farm-life experience, from house-made preserves, charcuterie, herbs, kitchen gardens and eggs cultivated on the property, an elegant French colonial stucco house. $$$$$
La Thai Uptown 4938 Prytania St., 899-8886, Uptown, LaThaiUptown.com. L, D Tue-Sun.
Uptown outpost of the Chauvin family’s ingredient-driven Thai-Cajun fusion cuisine.
The summer rolls are good as is the tom kar gai soup.
Lunch specials are a good deal and vegetarian dishes are offered as well. $$
Latil’s Landing Houmas House Plantation, 40136 Highway 942, (225) 473-9380, Darrow, HoumasHouse.com. L Sun, D Wed-Sun.
Nouvelle Louisiane, plantation-style cooking served in an opulent setting features dishes like rack of lamb and plume de veau. $$$$$
Le Meritage 1001 Toulouse St., 522-8800, French Quarter, LeMeritageRestaurant.com. D Tue-Sat.
This restaurant blends fine wines with Southern-flavored cuisine for a memorable fine-dining experience in a casual environment.
Chef Michael Farrell’s well-rounded menu features suggested wine and food pairings, along with full or half servings both by the glass and by the plate.
Complimentary valet parking. $$$
Le Salon Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 596-4773, CBD/Warehouse District. Afternoon Tea, Thu-Fri, seating at 2 p.m., Sat-Sun, seating at 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Formal afternoon tea with harpist or string quartet served in a sophisticated atmosphere.
A local mother-daughter tradition. $$
Liborio’s Cuban Restaurant 321 Magazine St., 581-9680, CBD/Warehouse District, LiborioCuban.com. L Mon-Sat, D Tue-Sat.
Authentic Cuban favorites such as Ropa Vieja and pressed Cuban sandwiches along with great specials make this a popular lunch choice. $$$
Lil’ Dizzy’s Café 1500 Esplanade Ave., 569-8997, Mid-City. B, L daily, D Thu-Sat.
Spot local and national politicos dining at this favored Creole soul restaurant known for homey classics like fried chicken and Trout Baquet. $
Lilette 3637 Magazine St., 895-1636, Uptown, LiletteRestaurant.com. L, D Tue-Sat.
Chef John Harris’ innovative menu draws discerning diners to this highly regarded bistro on Magazine Street. Desserts are wonderful as well. $$$$$
Lola’s 3312 Esplanade Ave., 488-6946, Mid-City. D daily.
Garlicky Spanish dishes and great paella make this artsy Faubourg St. John boîte a hipster destination. $$$
Lüke 333 St. Charles Ave., 378-2840, CBD, LukeNewOrleans.com. Br Sat-Sun, B, L, D daily.
John Besh (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007) and executive chef Matt Regan characterize the cuisine “Alsace meets New Orleans in an authentic brasserie setting.”
Germanic specialties and French bistro classics, house-made patés and abundant plateaux of cold, fresh seafood.
New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2007 and 2012 Raw Bar of the Year. $$$
Mahony’s 3454 Magazine St., 899-3374, Uptown, MahonysPoBoys.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
Along with the usual poor boys, this sandwich shop serves up a Grilled Shrimp and Fried Green Tomato version dressed with remoulade sauce.
Sandwich offerings are augmented by a full bar. $
Mandina’s 3800 Canal St., 482-9179, Mid-City, MandinasRestaurant.com. L, D daily.
Quintessential New Orleans neighborhood institution reopened following an extensive renovation.
Though the ambiance is more upscale, the same food and seafood dishes make dining here a New Orleans experience.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year. $$
Manning’s 519 Fulton St., 593-8118, Warehouse District. L, D daily.
Born of a partnership between New Orleans’ First Family of Football and Harrah’s Casino, Manning’s offers sports bar fans a step up in terms of comfort and quality. With a menu that draws on both New Orleans and the Deep South, traditional dishes get punched up with inspired but accessible twists in surroundings accented by both memorabilia and local art. $$$
Maple Street Café 7623 Maple St., 314-9003, Uptown. L, D daily.
Casual dinner spot serving Mediterranean-inspired pastas and Italian-style entrées, along with heartier fare such as duck and filet mignon. $$
The Marigny Brasserie 640 Frenchmen St., 945-4472, Faubourg Marigny, MarignyBrasserie.com. L, D daily.
Chic neighborhood bistro with traditional dishes like the Wedge of Lettuce salad and innovative cocktails like the Cucumber Cosmo. $$$
Martin Wine Cellar 714 Elmeer Ave., 896-7300, Metairie, MartinWine.com. Br Sun, L daily, D Mon-Fri.
Wine by the glass or bottle to go with daily lunch specials, towering burgers, hearty soups, salads and giant, deli-style sandwiches. $
Mat & Naddie’s 937 Leonidas St., 861-9600, Uptown, MatAndNaddies.com. D Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat.
Cozy converted house along River Road serves up creative and eclectic regionally-inspired fare.
Crab cakes with cucumber slaw makes for a good appetizer and when the weather is right the romantic patio is the place to sit. $$$$
Maximo’s Italian Grill 1117 Decatur St., 586-8883, French Quarter. MaximosGrill.com. D Daily.
Italian destination on Decatur Street features a sprawling menu including housemade salumi and antipasti as well as old school classics like Veal Osso Bucco. Private dining is offered for special events. New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Continental Italian Restaurant of the Year. $$$
Middendorf’s Interstate 55, Exit 15, 30160 Highway 51 South, (985) 386-6666, Akers, MiddendorfsRestaurant.com. L, D Wed-Sun.
Historic seafood destination along the shores of Lake Maurepas is world-famous for its thin-fried catfish fillets.
Open since 1934, it transitioned to its next generation of owners when Horst Pfeifer purchased it in 2007. More than a restaurant, this is a Sunday Drive tradition. $$
MiLa 817 Common St., 412-2580, French Quarter, MiLaNewOrleans.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
Latest offering from husband-and-wife chefs Slade Rushing and Allison Vines-Rushing focuses on the fusion of the cuisines of Miss. and La.
Signature dishes include Oysters Rockefeller “Deconstructed” and New Orleans-style barbecue lobster.
New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2008. $$$$
Mona’s Café 504 Frenchmen St., 485-6583, Marigny; 4126 Magazine St., 894-9800, Uptown; 1120 S. Carrollton Ave., 861-8174, Uptown; 3901 Banks St., 482-7743, Mid-City. L, D daily.
Middle Eastern specialties such as baba ganuj, tender-tangy beef or chicken shawarma, falafel and gyros, stuffed into pillowy pita bread or on platters.
The lentil soup with crunchy pita chips and desserts, such as sticky sweet baklava, round out the menu.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Middle Eastern Restaurant of the Year. $
Mondo 900 Harrison Ave., 224-2633, Lakeview, MondoNewOrleans.com. Br Sun, L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Chef of the Year Susan Spicer’s take on world cuisine isn’t far from her home in Lakeview.
Make sure to call ahead because the place has a deserved reputation for good food and good times. $$$
Morton’s, The Steakhouse The Shops at Canal Place, 365 Canal St., 566-0221, French Quarter, Mortons.com/NewOrleans. D daily.
Quintessential Chicago steakhouse serves up top-quality slabs of meat along with jumbo seafood.
Clubhouse atmosphere makes this chophouse a favorite of Saints players and businessmen alike. $$$$$
Mosca’s 4137 Highway 90 West, 436-9942, Avondale. D Tue-Sat.
Italian institution near the Huey Long Bridge dishes out massive portions of great food family-style. Good bets are the shrimp Mosca and chicken à la grande.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Honor Roll winner. Note: Cash Only. $$$
Mother’s 401 Poydras St., 436-8940, CBD/Warehouse District, MothersRestaurant.net. B, L, D daily.
Locals and tourists alike endure long queues and a confounding ordering system to enjoy iconic dishes such as the Ferdi poor boy and Jerry’s jambalaya.
Come for a late lunch to avoid the rush. $$
Mr. Ed’s Seafood and Italian Restaurant 1001 Live Oak St., 838-0022, Bucktown; 910 W. Esplanade Ave., Ste. A, 463-3030, Kenner. L, D Mon-Sat.
Neighborhood restaurant specializes in seafood and Italian offerings such as stuffed eggplant and bell pepper.
Fried seafood and sandwiches make it a good stop for lunch. $$
Muriel’s Jackson Square 801 Chartres St., 568-1885, French Quarter, Muriels.com. L, D daily, Br Sun.
Enjoy pecan-crusted drum and other New Orleans classics while dining in the courtyard bar or any other room in this labyrinthine, rumored-to-be-haunted establishment. $$$$
Naked Pizza 6307 S. Miro St., 865-0244, Uptown (takeout & delivery only), NakedPizza.biz. L, D daily.
Pizza place with a focus on fresh ingredients and a healthy crust.
The Mediterranean pie is a good choice. $
Napoleon House 500 Chartres St., 524-9752, French Quarter, NapoleonHouse.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
Originally built in 1797 as a respite for Napoleon, this family-owned European-style café serves local favorites: gumbo, jambalaya, muffulettas and for sipping, a Sazerac or lemony Pimm’s Cup. $$
Nine Roses 1100 Stephen St., 366-7665, Gretna, NineRosesResturant.com. L, D Sun-Tue, Thu-Sat.
The extensive Vietnamese menu specializes in hot pots, noodles and dishes big enough for everyone to share.
Great for families. $$
NOLA 534 St. Louis St., 522-6652, French Quarter, Emerils.com. L Thu-Sun, D daily.
Emeril’s more affordable eatery, featuring cedar-plank-roasted redfish; private dining. $$$$$
Nuvolari’s 246 Girod St., (985) 626-5619, Mandeville, Nuvolaris.com. D daily.
Dark woods and soft lighting highlight this Northshore Creole Continental-Italian fusion restaurant famous for crabmeat ravioli, veal dishes, seafood specialties and delectable desserts. $$$$
One Restaurant and Lounge 8132 Hampson St., 301-9061, Uptown, OrleansGrapevine.com. L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
Black seating and herbaceous sage-colored walls form a dining room where every seat is a view into the open kitchen and the chefs creating contemporary comfort food on a seasonally changing menu. The bar is also known for cranking out clever cocktails. New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Restaurant 2005. $$$$
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, French Quarter, OrleansGrapevine.com. D daily.
Wine is the muse at this beautifully renovated French Quarter bistro, which offers vino by the flight, glass and bottle.
A classic menu with an emphasis on New Orleans cuisine adds to the appeal. $$$
Palace Café 605 Canal St., 523-1661, CBD/Warehouse District, PalaceCafe.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily, Br Sun.
Dickie Brennan-owned brasserie with French-style sidewalk seating and house-created specialties of Chef Darrin Nesbit at lunch, dinner and Jazz Brunch.
Favorites here include crabmeat cheesecake, turtle soup, the Werlein salad with fried Louisiana oysters and pork ”debris” studded Palace Potato Pie. $$$$$
Parkway Bakery and Tavern 538 Hagan Ave., 482-3047, Mid-City, ParkwayBakeryAndTavernNola.com. L, D daily, closed Tue.
Featured on national TV and having served poor boys to presidents, Parkway stakes a claim to some of the best sandwiches in town.
Their french fry version with gravy and cheese is a classic at a great price. $
Pascal’s Manale 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, Uptown. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
Vintage New Orleans neighborhood restaurant since 1913 and the place to go for the house-creation of barbecued shrimp.
Its oyster bar serves icy cold, freshly shucked Louisiana oysters and the Italian specialties and steaks are also solid. $$$$
Patois 6078 Laurel St., 895-9441, Uptown, PatoisNola.com. Br Sun, L Fri, D Wed-Sat.
The food is French in technique, with influences from across the Mediterranean as well as the American South, all filtered through the talent of Chef Aaron Burgau (New Orleans Magazine’s Best New Chef 2009). Reservations recommended. $$$
Paul’s Café 100 Pine St., (985) 386-9581, Ponchatoula, PaulsCafe.net. B, L daily.
Best known for its strawberry daiquiris, Paul’s also cooks up egg breakfasts and lunches including all manner of sandwiches and poor boys. $
The Pelican Club 312 Exchange Place, 523-1504, French Quarter, PelicanClub.com. D daily.
Tucked into a French Quarter alley, Pelican Club serves an eclectic mix of hip food, from the seafood “martini” to clay pot barbecued shrimp and a trio of duck.
Three dining rooms available. $$$$$
PJ’s Coffee Multiple locations throughout Greater New Orleans, PJsCoffee.com.
The city’s first iced-coffee spot that pioneered the coffee house experience in New Orleans and introduced us all to velvet ices, drinkable granitas and locally made Ronald Reginald vanilla.
A wide assortment of pastries and bagels are offered as well as juices and fresh ground or whole bean coffees. $
Port of Call 838 Esplanade Ave., 523-0120, French Quarter, PortOfCallNola.com. L, D daily.
It is all about the big, meaty burgers and giant baked potatoes in this popular bar/restaurant – unless you’re cocktailing only, then it’s all about the Monsoons. $$
Praline Connection 542 Frenchmen St., 943-3934, Faubourg Marigny, PralineConnection.com. L, D daily.
Down-home dishes of smothered pork chops, greens, beans and cornbread are on the menu at this homey Creole soul restaurant. $$
Ralph Brennan’s Red Fish Grill 115 Bourbon St., 598-1200, French Quarter, RedFishGrill.com. L, D Mon-Thu & Sun.
Chef Austin Kirzner cooks up a broad menu peppered with Big Easy favorites such as BBQ oysters, blackened redfish and double chocolate bread pudding. $$$$$
Ralph’s On The Park 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000, Mid-City, RalphsOnThePark.com. Br Sun, L Wed-Fri, D daily.
A modern interior, a view of City Park’s moss-draped oaks and contemporary Creole dishes such as City Park salad, turtle soup and BBQ Gulf shrimp.
The bar gets special notice for cocktails. $$$$
The Red Maple 1036 Lafayette St., 367-0935, Gretna, TheRedMaple.com. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sat.
This West Bank institution since 1963 is known for its seafood, steaks, wine list and some of the best bread pudding around. $$$$
Reginelli’s Pizzeria 741 State St., 899-1414, Uptown; 3244 Magazine St., 895-7272, Uptown; 5608 Citrus Blvd., 818-0111, Harahan; 817 W. Esplanade Ave., 712-6868, Kenner; 874 Harrison Ave, 488-0133, Lakeview; Reginellis.com. L, D daily.
Pizzas, pastas, salads, fat calzones and lofty focaccia sandwiches are on tap at locations all over town. $$
Arnaud’s Remoulade 309 Bourbon St., 523-0377, French Quarter, Remoulade.com. L, D daily.
Granite-topped tables and an antique mahogany bar are home to the eclectic menu of Famous Shrimp Arnaud, red beans and rice and poor boys as well as specialty burgers, grilled all-beef hot dogs and thin-crust pizza. $$
René Bistrot 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 613-2350, CBD/Warehouse District, LaCoteBrasserie.com. Br Sun, L Mon-Fri, D daily.
Fresh local seafood, international ingredients and a contemporary atmosphere fill the room at this hotel restaurant near the Convention Center. $$$
Restaurant August 301 Tchoupitoulas St., 299-9777, CBD/Warehouse District, RestaurantAugust.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily.
James Beard Award-winning chef (New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2007) John Besh’s menu is based on classical techniques of Louisiana cuisine and produce with a splash of European flavor set in a historic carriage warehouse. $$$$$
R’evolution 777 Bienville St., 553-2277, French Quarter, RevolutionNola.com. L, D Mon-Fri, Br, D Sun, open late Fri-Sat.
R’evolution is the partnership between chefs John Folse and Rick Tramonto.
Located in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, it’s an opulent place that combines the local flavors of chef Folse with the more cosmopolitan influence of chef Tramonto.
Chef de cuisine Chris Lusk and executive sous chef Erik Veney are in charge of day-to-day operations, which include house-made charcuterie, pastries, pastas and more.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Restaurant of the Year. $$$$$
Ristorante Da Piero 401 Williams Blvd., 469-8585, Kenner, RistoranteDaPiero.com. L, D Tue-Sat.
Homemade pastas and an emphasis on Northern Italian cuisine make this cozy spot in
Kenner’s Rivertown a romantic destination. $
Rib Room Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, 621 St. Louis St., 529-7046, French Quarter, RibRoomNewOrleans.com. Br Sat-Sun, L, D daily.
Old World elegance, high ceilings and views of Royal Street, house classic cocktails and Anthony Spizale’s broad menu of prime rib, stunning seafood and on weekends, a Champagne Brunch. $$$
Riccobono’s Panola Street Café 7801 Panola St., 314-1810, Garden District. B, L daily.
This breakfast spot at the corner of Burdette and Panola streets has been waking up bleary college students for years.
The omelets are good, as are the Belgian waffles. Offers daily specials as well. $
Rio Mar 800 S. Peters St., 525-3474, CBD/Warehouse District, RioMarSeafood.com. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat.
Seafood-centric Warehouse District destination focuses on Latin American and Spanish cuisines.
Try the bacalaitos and the escabeche. The tapas lunch is a great way to try a little of everything.
Save room for the Tres Leches, a favorite dessert.
New Orleans Magazine’s Chef of the Year 2006. $$$$
Ristorante Filippo 1917 Ridgelake Drive, 835-4008, Metairie. L, D Tue-Sat.
Creole-Italian destination serves up southern Italian specialties bathed in red sauces and cheese alongside New Orleans classics like pan-fried Gulf fish and plump shellfish. $$$
River 127 Westin New Orleans Canal Place, 100 Rue Iberville, 533-5082, French Quarter. B, L, D daily.
Continental cuisine with Louisiana flare in a dining room that overlooks the Mississippi River and French Quarter. $$$$
Rivershack Tavern 3449 River Road, 834-4938, Jefferson, TheRivershackTavern.com. L, D daily.
Home of the Tacky Ashtray, this popular bar alongside the Mississippi levee offers surprisingly wide-ranging menu featuring seafood, poor boys and deli-style sandwiches along with live music. Open late. $
Rock-N-Sake 823 Fulton St., 581-7253, CBD/Warehouse District, RockNSake.com. L Fri, D Tue-Sun.
Enjoy fresh sushi along with contemporary takes on Japanese favorites in this club-like setting in the Warehouse District.
Open until midnight on Fri. and Sat., this makes for a unique late-night destination. $$$
Root 200 Julia St., 252-9480, CBD, RootNola.com. L Mon-Fri, D daily.
Chef Philip Lopez opened Root in November 2011 and has garnered a loyal following for his modernist, eclectic cuisine. Try the Korean fried chicken wings and the Cohiba-smoked scallops crusted with chorizo. New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Maître D’ of the Year. $$$$
Royal Blend Coffee and Tea House 621 Royal St., 523-2716, French Quarter; 204 Metairie Road, 835-7779, Metairie; RoyalBlendCoffee.com. B, L daily.
Known for their frozen Café Glace and a wide selection of coffees and teas, as well as pastries, daily specials and hearty breakfasts. $
Ruth’s Chris Steak House 3633 Veterans Blvd., 888-3600, Metairie. L Fri, D daily, Br Sat-Sun; 525 Fulton St. in Harrah’s Hotel, 587-7099, L, D daily, Br Sat-Sun; RuthsChris.com.
Filet Mignon, creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin are the most popular dishes at this area steak institution, but there are also great seafood choices and top-notch desserts. $$$$$
Sake Café 2830 Magazine St., 894-0033, Uptown, SakeCafeUptown.com. L, D daily.
Creative and traditional Japanese food in an ultramodern décor. Sushi and sashimi boats, wild rolls filled with the usual and not-so-usual suspects and a nice bar with a number of sakes from which to choose. $$$
Sammy’s Po-Boys and Catering 901 Veterans Blvd., 835-0916, Metairie, SammysPoBoys.com. L Mon-Sat, D daily.
Bucktown transplant offers a seafood-centric menu rounded out with wraps, kid meals and catering options all at a reasonable price. $
Satsuma Café 3218 Dauphine St., 304-5962, Bywater; 7901 Maple St., 309-5557, Uptown; SatsumaCafe.com. B, L daily (until 7 p.m.).
Two locations offer healthy, inspired breakfast and lunch fare, along with freshly squeezed juices. $
Semolina 4436 Veterans Blvd., Suite 37, Metairie, 454-7930, Semolina.com. L, D daily.
This casual, contemporary pasta restaurant takes a bold approach to cooking Italian food, emphasizing flavors, texture and color;
many of the dishes feature a signature Louisiana twist, such as the Muffuletta Pasta and Pasta Jambalaya.
Popular entrées include Grilled Chicken Alfredo, Chicken Marsala and Veal Parmesan. $$
Serendipity 3700 Orleans Ave. 407-0818, Mid-City, SerendipityNola.com. D daily.
Chef Chris DeBarr brings his eclectic and far-ranging style of cuisine and classically inspired cocktails to an outpost in American Can.
A late-night option as well. $$
Slice 1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-7437, Uptown; 5538 Magazine St., 897-4800; SlicePizzeria.com. L, D Mon-Sat.
Order up slices or whole pizza pies done in several styles (thin- and thick-crust) as well as pastas, seafood, paninis and salads. $
Slim Goodies Diner 3322 Magazine St., 891-EGGS (3447). B, L daily.
This diner offers up an exhaustive menu heavily influenced by local cuisine. Try the Creole Slammer, a breakfast platter rounded out with Crawfish Étouffée.
The laid-back vibe is best enjoyed on the patio out back. $
SoBou 310 Chartres St., 552-4095, French Quarter, SoBouNola.com. B, L, D daily.
There is something for everyone at this “Modern Creole Saloon,” the latest offering from the Commander’s Restaurant Family. Decidedly unstuffy with an emphasis on craft cocktails and wines by the glass, diners will find everything from $1 pork cracklins to an extravagant foie gras burger on the accomplished yet eclectic menus. $$
Snug Harbor 626 Frenchman St., 949-0696, Faubourg Marigny, SnugJazz.com. D daily.
The city’s premier jazz club serves cocktails and a dining menu loaded with steaks, seafood and meaty burgers served with loaded baked potatoes. $$$$
Stein’s Market and Deli 2207 Magazine St., 527-0771, Uptown, SteinsDeli.net. B, L, D Tue-Sun.
New York meets New Orleans. The Reuben and Rachel sandwiches are the real deal and the half-sours and pickled tomatoes complete the deli experience. $
Stella! 1032 Chartres St., 587-0091, French Quarter, RestaurantStella.com. D daily.
Global cuisine with a Louisiana blush by native son chef Scott Boswell. Dishes are always inventive and flavorful from appetizer to dessert.
The wine list is bold and the service “stellar.” Boswell was New Orleans Magazine’s 2005 Chef of the Year. $$$$$
Sun Ray Grill 619 Pink St., 837-0055, Old Metairie; 1051 Annunciation St., 566-0021, CBD/Warehouse District; 2600 Belle Chasse Highway, 391-0053, Gretna; SunRayGrill.com. L, D daily, Br Sun (at Annunciation). This local chain offers a globally influenced menu with burgers, steaks, sesame crusted tuna, sandwiches and salads. $$
Surrey’s Café and Juice Bar 1418 Magazine St., 524-3828, Coliseum Square; 4807 Magazine St., 895-5757, Uptown; SurreysCafeAndJuiceBar.com. B, L daily.
Laid-back café focuses on breakfast and brunch dishes to accompany freshly squeezed juice offerings.
Health-food lovers will like it here, along with fans of favorites such as peanut butter and banana pancakes. Note: Cash only. $$
Tan Dinh 1705 Lafayette St., 361-8008, Gretna. B, L, D Wed-Mon.
Roasted quail and the beef pho rule at this Vietnamese outpost. New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Vietnamese Restaurant of the Year. $$
Theo’s Pizza 4218 Magazine St., 894-8554, Uptown; 4024 Canal, 302-1133, Mid-City; 1212 S. Clearview Parkway, 733-3803, Elmwood TheosPizza.com. L, D daily.
The thin, cracker-crisp crust pizzas are complemented by the broad assortment of toppings which include a lot of local ingredients.
Cheap prices make this an economical and delicious choice. $$
Three Muses 536 Frenchmen St., 252-4801, Marigny, TheThreeMuses.com. D Sun-Mon, Wed, Fri-Sat.
Three Muses is a bar-restaurant serving the eclectic cuisine of chef Daniel Esses.
The menu changes, but expect Esses’ take on Italian, Spanish, North African and Korean cooking.
Local bands provide music on a regular basis. $
Tommy’s Cuisine 746 Tchoupitoulas St., 581-1103, CBD/Warehouse District, TommysNewOrleans.com. D daily.
Classic Creole-Italian cuisine is the name of the game at this upscale eatery.
Appetizers include the namesake Oysters Tommy, baked in the shell with Romano cheese, pancetta and roasted red pepper. $$$$$
Tony Angello’s 6262 Fleur de Lis Drive, 488-0888. Lakeview. D Tue-Sat.
Creole-Italian favorite serves up fare in the completely restored Lakeview location. Ask Tony to “Feed Me” if you want a real multi-course dining experience.
New Orleans Magazine’s 2010 Traditional New Orleans Italian Restaurant of the Year. $$$$
Tout de Suite Cafe 347 Verret St., 362-2264, Algiers. B, L, D daily.
Neighborhood coffeehouse/café in historic Algiers Point offers a light menu of soups, salads and sandwiches for a quick meal or carryout. $$
Tracey’s Irish Restaurant & Bar 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, TraeysNola.com, Uptown. L, D daily.
A neighborhood bar with one of the best messy roast beef poor boys in town.
The gumbo, cheeseburger poor boy and other sandwiches are also winners.
Grab a local Abita beer to wash it all down. Also a great location to watch “the game.” $
Trey Yuen 600 N. Causeway Blvd., (985) 626-4476, Mandeville, TreyYuen.com. L Tue-Fri & Sun, D Tue-Sun.
Chinese cuisine meets with local seafood in dishes like their Szechuan Spicy Alligator and Tong Cho Crawfish; private rooms available. $$
Tujague’s 823 Decatur St., 525-8676, French Quarter, TujaguesRestaurant.com. D daily.
For more than 150 years this landmark restaurant has been offering Creole cuisine.
Favorites include a nightly six-course table d’hôté menu featuring a unique Beef Brisket with Creole Sauce. New Orleans Magazine’s Honor Roll honoree 2008. $$$$$
Upperline 1413 Upperline St., 891-9822, Uptown, Upperline.com. D Wed-Sun.
Consummate hostess JoAnn Clevenger and talented chef Dave Bridges make for a winning combination at this nationally heralded Uptown favorite, New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Honor Roll winner.
The oft-copied Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp Remoulade originated here. $$$$
Vega Tapas Café 2051 Metairie Road, 836-2007, Metairie. D Mon-Sat.
Innovative establishment offers fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetarian dishes in a chic environment.
Daily chef specials showcase unique ingredients and make this place a popular destination for dates as well as groups of friends. $$
Venezia 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 488-7991, Mid-City, VeneziaNewOrleans.com. L Wed-Fri & Sun, D Wed-Sun.
Casual neighborhood Italian destination known for its thin-crust pizzas.
Good lunch specials make this a popular choice as well. $$
Vincent’s Italian Cuisine 4411 Chastant St., 885-2984, Metairie, L Tue-Fri, D Mon-Sat; 7839 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313, Uptown. L Tue-Fri, D Tue-Sun; VicentsItalianCuisine.com.
Snug Italian boîte packs them in yet manages to remain intimate at the same time.
The cannelloni is a house specialty. $$$
Wolfe’s in the Warehouse 859 Convention Center Blvd., 613-2882, CBD/Warehouse District. B, L, D daily.
Chef Tom Wolfe brings his refined cuisine to the booming Fulton Street corridor.
His Smoked Kobe Short Ribs are a good choice. $$$
Ye Olde College Inn 3000 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-3683, Uptown, CollegeInn1933.com. D Tue-Sat.
The institution moved next door into brand-new digs but serves up the same classic fare, albeit with a few new upscale dishes peppering the menu. $$$
Yuki Izakaya 525 Frenchmen St., 943-1122, Marigny. D daily.
Authentic Japanese Izakaya serves small plates to late-night crowds at this unique destination.
Try the Hokke Fish or the Agedashi Tofu.
An excellent sake menu rounds out the appeal, as does the sexy, club-like ambiance. $
Zea’s Rotisserie and Bar 1525 St. Charles Ave., Lower Garden District, 520-8100; 1655 Hickory Ave, Harahan, 738-0799; 4450 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 780-9090; 1325 West Esplanade, Kenner, 468-7733; 1121 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 361-8293; 110 Lake Drive, Covington, (985) 327-0520, ZeaRestaurants.com. L, D daily.
This popular restaurant serves a variety of grilled items as well as appetizers, salads, side dishes, seafood, pasta and other entrées, drawing from a wide range of worldly influences. Zea’s also offers catering services. $$$
Zoë Restaurant W New Orleans Hotel, 333 Poydras St., 2nd Floor, 207-5018, ZoeNewOrleans.com. B, L daily.
Completely redone in both décor and cuisine, each section features a separate menu by executive chef Chris Brown. $$$
SPECIALTY FOODS
Antoine’s Annex 513 Royal St., 525-8045, French Quarter, Antoines.com/Antoines-Annex. Open daily.
Around the corner from the oldest continuously operated restaurant in the country,
Antoine’s Annex serves French pastries, including individual baked Alaskas, ice cream and gelato, as well as panini, salads and coffee. They also deliver.
Bee Sweet Cupcakes 5706 Magazine St., 891-8333, Uptown, BeeSweetCupcakes.net. Open Mon-Sat.
Tiny shop sells its namesake treats with a New Orleans twist. Try the Bananas Foster or the Pralines and Cream flavors. Daily specials are offered, as well as catering orders for weddings and parties.
Bittersweet Confections 725 Magazine St., 523-2626, Warehouse District, BittersweetConfections.com. Open Mon-Sat.
Freshly baked cookies, cupcakes and specialty cakes. Serving handmade chocolate truffles, fudge, caramels, gelato, ice coffee, chocolate-dipped strawberries and freshly squeezed lemonade. Children’s birthday parties, chocolate tasting parties, custom chocolates and truffle party bar. Call for details.
Blue Dot Donuts 4301 Canal St., 218-4866, Mid-City, BlueDotDonuts.com. B, L daily.
Heard the one about the cops that opened a donut shop? This is no joke. The Bacon Maple Long John gets all the press, but returning customers are happy with the classics as well as twists like peanut butter and jelly. New Orleans Magazine’s 2012 Doughnut Shop of the Year.
Blue Frog Chocolates 5707 Magazine St., 269-5707, Uptown, BlueFrogChocolate.com. Open daily.
French and Belgian chocolate truffles and Italian candy flowers make this boutique a great place for gifts.
Calcasieu 930 Tchoupitoulas St., 588-2188, Warehouse District, CalcasieuRooms.com.
Located in the second floor of a renovated warehouse, above Cochon and Cochon Butcher, is a place to host gatherings both large and small. Catering menus feature modern Louisiana cooking and the Cajun cuisine for which chef Donald Link is justifiably famous.
Magic Seasonings Mail Order (800) 457-2857. Offers chef Paul Prudhomme’s famous cookbooks, smoked meats, videos, seasonings and more.
Online shopping available at shop. ChefPaul.com/Seasonings.
St. James Cheese Company 5004 Prytania St., 899-4737, Uptown, StJamesCheese.com. Open daily.
Specialty shop offers a selection of fine cheeses, wines, beers and related accouterments. Look for wine and cheese specials every Friday.
Sucré 3025 Magazine St., 520-8311; 3301 Veterans Blvd., 834-2277; ShopSucre.comhttp://ShopSucre.com. Desserts daily & nightly. Open late weekends. Chocolates, pastry and gelato draw rave reviews at this new dessert destination. Beautiful packaging makes this a great place to shop for gifts. Catering available.
