Galatoire's

HORRIBLE! Id definitely skip this one! They weren't busy but we were ignored or forgotten about. Service was terrible. To top it off, there was a hair in my food. I very nicely and discreetly let a manager know. They offered me a new entree but by the time it arrived my friend had already finished his meal. My food came out lukewarm and just ok. Instead of comping my entree, they took off the $6 cheesecake. For 2 entrees and tea the bill was about $80! Thanks a lot...NOT! =/ What a disappointment after being a Fodor's Choice.

Galatoire's was a disappointment. The food was so smothered in butter that all other flavors were masked. One bite of the potato puffs told us they were glorified, overcooked french fries. My husband couldn't taste his fish or its crab dressing under all of the butter. I had the soft shell crab in butter sauce, which was delicate and attractively presented, but swimming in butter. I was glad that I had added the toasted almonds, which brings me to another point. The only way to have accompaniments to the food is to add toppings and side dishes. We spent $30 more for this dinner than similar dinners elsewhere. The waitstaff was attentive and helpful, and the atmosphere interesting like something out of a 1930s mob film.

This restaurant is a classic for a reason. The food is amazing, the waiters are top notch. It is boisterous in there, especially in the downstairs dining room. If you want "true Galatoire's" then sit there. Upstairs is more quiet and elegant. Potato puffs are a must. We locals mix powdered sugar and hot sauce to form a dipping paste. Try it--you'll be hooked! The trout amandine/meuniere is a signature dish. Salads are excellent. You have to ask the waitstaff what each is (there are really no great descriptions) but they are knowledgeable and patient. Plan on staying a while. It is a place to see and be seen. Make sure you dress for it!