New Orleans Restaurant Tips by moirholj

Petunia's: Crepes as big as your head! Petunias, A Restaurant Review

Cajun/Creole

Favorite Dish: Any of the Crepes. They were HUGE, and filled with all kinds of good stuff. I TRIED and tried to finish it all because it was so good. I stuffed myself full and still couldn't do it. Staff is so nice and atmosphere is very quaint. This also came recommended from our Bed and Breakfast hosts, and they are locals. I would also say this is off the beaten path and not at all touristy even though it is in the quarter. Go here at least once and get a crepe as big as your head!

Address: 817 St. Louis Street, New Orleans LA

Comparison: less expensive than average

Phone: 504-522-6440

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Other

QSR - Quarter Scene Restaurant: QSR for quiet atmosphere and good food. QSR - Quarter Scene Restaurant Review

(UPDATE: July 2008) I am sorry to report that QSR (Quarter Scene Restaurant) is no longer. On a recent trip we discovered that while it is still a restaurant, it is now called "EAT". Eat was closed when we passed by, but we could tell from looking through the window that the decor had changed. Has anyone eaten at this new place? (Moderators, I guess you should take QSR off the restaurant list) Below is my old review.

(Old Tip)QSR is a cute out of the way place with a mellow atmosphere and unique decorations. A hodge podge of painted walls and bead art adorn the small rooms where you will have your meal. Staff is friendly and accomodating. They do not have a liquor license but feel free to bring your own bottle. Going for breakfast or brunch? Bring a bottle of champage and have mamosas with your homemade omlette!

Address: 900 Dumaine Street, New Orleans LA

Comparison: less expensive than average

Phone: (504) 522-6533

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 4

Theme: Local

Website: http://www.quarterscene.com/

Crescent City Brewhouse: A recent culinary discovery Crescent City Brewhouse Review

While looking for a new place to try on my 3rd trip to New Orleans, I visited the Cresent City Brewhouse. Of course I am very big on trying new beers whenenver I get the chance, and this brewery didn't dissappoint at all. I always favor Weiss Beer, and the one served up here was quite good. The food here was also surprisingly wonderful, as I've found that most breweries spend so much effort perfecting their beers that their food usually falls into the 'about average' category.

Favorite Dish: Although it is not listed in their online menu at the moment, I believe we had the special of the day which was Duck Quesadillas for an appetizer, and a tasty duck dinner as well.

Address: 527 Decatur Street, French Quarter, NOLA

Comparison: about average

Phone: 888-819-9330 or 504-522-0571

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Pub/Brewery

Website: http://www.crescentcitybrewhouse.com/

Napoleon House: Another favorite Napoleon House Bar & Cafe Review

Like almost everything in New Orleans, this is a place with a lot of history... 200 years worth (read more on their webpage listed below). Although it is quite old, it certainly isn't failing in anything, especially in the cuisine and atmosphere department. I've been here three times. Food has always been great and the service has always been excellent.

Favorite Dish: The spinach artichoke dip (served in a bread bowl) at this place is WONDERFUL. Even if spinach and artichoke together does not sound appetizing to you, I recommend you take a leap of faith and still give it a try - You'll get hooked just like I did. Each time I return to New Orleans I stop here for lunch that starts with this wonderful appetizer... usually followed by a Roast Beef Po'Boy.

Address: 500 Chartres Street, New Orleans, La. 70130

Comparison: about average

Other Contact: simpastato@aol.com

Phone: 504.524.9752

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 5

Theme: Local

Website: http://www.napoleonhouse.com/index.html

Brennan's: Home of the Original Bannana's Foster - YUM! Brennan's Review

Although Brennan's is famous for its Sunday brunch and breakfasts, I went for a tasty evening meal. Brennan's is an upscale restaurant that is a New Orleans staple. The food, atmosphere and service was exquisite. When the staff discovered that we were there on our honeymoon, we were brought a complimentary bottle of champage! Brennan's is expensive, but worth it. I would certainly return to enjoy their famous Banana's Foster dessert - it was invented at Brennan's so it is the best!

Favorite Dish: Clearly, my favorite dish is the Banana's Foster. Almost as impressive as the taste, is the way the staff prepares it right in front of you. I don't know all of the ingredients, but part of the flare is the burning off of alcohol which sparks a firestorm over your dessert! Watching flambe is always a treat!

Address: 417 Royal Street

Comparison: more expensive than average

Phone: 504-525-9711

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Local

Website: http://www.brennansneworleans.com

Coop's: Late night food with a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere Coop's Place Review

This place is great not only because the food is authentic New Orleans cuisine, but because there is no dress code (the grungier the better) and the kitchen is open until at least 2am every nite. This place is essential for when you've been partying on Bourbon Street all night and you just have to get some food.

Favorite Dish: Rabbit and Sausage Jumbalaya - (my fav)
A traditional Creole rice dish, simmered with tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, local seasonings, boneless rabbit, and smoked pork sausage.

Chicken Tchoupitoulas -
A mouth-watering combination of boneless chicken breast sauteed with cream sauce and flavored with shrimp and tasso. Served over rice with our Creole green beans.

Address: 1109 Decatur St., New Orleans

Comparison: less expensive than average

Directions: Across the street from the French Market in the French Quarter.

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 5

Theme: Local

Website: http://www.coopsplace.net/index.html