Fodor's Expert Review Muriel's Jackson Square

Among Jackson Square's many dining spots, Muriel's is easily the most ambitious, in both atmosphere and menu. In the large downstairs rooms, architectural knickknacks and artwork evoke the city's colorful past, while diners indulge in hearty updates of old Creole favorites. The upstairs balcony has views of the square, with the occasional sounds of street music wafting in. The menu is diverse, ranging from a Gorgonzola-prosciutto terrine appetizer to barbecue shrimp or pecan-crusted drum (a popular local fish also known as "red drum") with Louisiana crawfish relish for main courses; a gluten-free dinner menu offers plenty of options. Sunday brunch is accompanied by live jazz.