Returned last month from news convention there. Wished I had more time to explore food in the quarter. I'll suggest a couple of spots beyond the "icons" that should meet your criteria and that I consider a good value. Napoleon House - Great historic bar/cafe that had been planned as the emperor's residence as part of plot to smuggle him from Elba. Unfortunately, he died, but the house lives on with daily drink specials and a fine sandwich/bar menu. Try lunch there. The Palace Cafe - Shares the Brennan family food resources at half the price of their more-established places. Houlihans Bar - Stop by duing oyster happy hour. Two-bit oysters, half-price bar menu and drink specials allow two people to gorge on the seafood, wash it down with great draft beers and leave with change from a $20-bill. Hint: If you sit at the end of the bar by the oyster shucker and schmooze with him, he keeps passing free-bees. The Pellican Club - Great ambiance. The three-course early-bird special that I ordered featured a fine beef filet and cost $19.95. The Saturday after my return it was featured on PBS's "Great Chefs" series. Good luck and happy dining.
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans!!!
Paul C. wrote: >My one and only vacation (as it seems like it's been years since the last >one) will be in N.O. the first week of Feb. I am looking for suggestions >for good food for bkfest,lunch, or dinner. Anywhere in the general N.O. >area is fine. Will be bringing some wine but am interested in alc. too. >Decor is NOT a consideration but rather value and authenticity is my >hearts desire... or am I carrying on a bit much. >Thanks in advance. >Paul > Paul, As a recently removed native I suggest Mr. B's on the quarter side of Canal, about 10 blocks from the river. Ask your hotel for the address - I can't remember exactly. Mr. B's is rather upscale, but the lunch on weekends is a nice outing. If seafood is your thing, head to Bucktown at the Metairie/New Orleans border by the lake. Deanie's is the most famous, but I prefer R+O's across the street. While you are in the area, check out the marina and lakefront in New Orleans if you have any interest in that sort of thing. If getting drunk with locals is a pleasing idea go to Nick's on Tulane Ave. The neighborhood is not the best but park near by and go in a group and you should be OK. They have very potent well/specialty drinks at a very reasonable price along with regular drink specials. A lot of college students/young adults. Drop me a line if I can help further. David.