April 2009
I am originally from New Orleans and I still have family there, so this city holds a special place in my heart. I could go for a mound of freshly boiled crawfish or an amazing shrimp poboy any day of the week.
I am also a huge fan of the French Quarter Festival and have been for years. It takes place right in the Quarters – so no lugging out to the fairgrounds as you must do for Jazz Fest. And – most of the bands truly have a jazz influence – so, as of right now, and unlike Jazz Fest, the main headliner isn’t a band like the Jonas Brothers. Do yourself a favor, be certain to hit Preservation Hall to hear some really great jazz while you are visiting the Big Easy, regardless of the timing of your visit.
Now on with the Fava Beans. This city exemplifies the antithesis of healthy eating, so pay back the deficit on your Weight Watchers points when you return home.
GW Fin’s
808 Bienville Street
+1-504-581-3467
www.gwfins.com/nola
The much written about lobster ravioli is not over hyped. It’s worth all the Mardi Gras beads it gets. I also loved the crawfish hush puppies they served as a snack. The fish was perfectly cooked. I understand why this restaurant gets consistent accolades for its seafood, especially in a city where seafood is so revered.
Muriel’s, Jackson Square
801 Chartres Street
+1-504-568-1885
www.muriels.com
We made the assumption that with its location at the corner of Jackson Square, Muriel’s would be a tourist trap with overly priced and mediocre food. We were so wrong. They have sick, sick, sick (all in a good way), goat cheese crepes with crawfish. I totally tried to find this recipe on line. I was in love.
Commander’s Palace
1403 Washington Avenue
+1-504-899-8221
www.commanderspalace.com
Despite being advised by my family who live in New Orleans that this place has been on a steady decline for some time, I optimistically made reservations for the Sunday brunch. I am truly sad to report that I’d save my seersucker suit for another day. I typically follow the philosophy “if you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say it at all;” however, this restaurant helped to set the standard in a true food lovers town back in the day and I’d like for it to return to its glory.
Café Du Monde
800 Decatur Street
+1-504-525-4544
www.cafedumonde.com
Even though it has changed management a zillion times, became a chain restaurant and is omnipresent in the big Easy, I always seem to squeeze in a visit for some beignets and coffee. It’s just one of those things you need to do and a standard go-to.
My short list for next time:
Tujagues
823 Decatur Street
+1-504-525-8676
www.tujaguesrestaurant.com
I heard the must do is the Chicken Bon Fem – Chicken with garlic and parsley. It isn’t on the menu. You have to ask for it. I am told you can only have it at the bar, but it is apparently to die for. I can’t wait to try this.
Lilette
3637 Magazine Street
+1-504-895-1636
www.liletterestaurant.com
Note to self… I’ve heard great things and two former chefs told me I must go.
