Mari

I am sending my parents on a trip to New Orleans for their 40th anniversary (they honeymooned there). Your recommendations for the most outstanding anniversary dinner are appreciated. They are fairly old fashioned and are staying at the Omni Royal Orleans. Thanks.

Eric Bryant

Antoine's or Arnaud's would be great for an anniversary dinner. You also might want to consider sending them to Emeril's in the warehouse district. You also might want to arrange for them to have breakfast at Brennan's on the morning of their annivesary.

Shawn Rodgers

I usaully go to New Orleans two to three times per year on business. Brussards was recommended to me by two native Louisianans. I am very glad to have experienced it. I eat in many restaurants all over the world and I have to say that Brussards is one of my favorites. I find Brussards attracts natives from New Orleans vs. tourists. It is also located in the French Quarter and walking distance from the OMNI. For the style of food and service I find the restaurant to be fairly priced. My wife and I had a meal with wine for about $130. Good Luck.

Dan

All of the places mentioned are very good and your parents won't be disappointed - but if they want to get away from the commotion of the French Quarter and try someplace that's not crowded with tourists, I suggest Gautreau's, in the Garden District, just a 10-minute taxi ride from the Omni. It's small, intimate (Commander's is big and noisy) and has a gourmet menu and large wine list - better for a special occasion like that.

L. Motgomery

Having lived in New Orleans for 35 yrs. I would absolutely pick Commander's Palace. We celebrate all our "occasions" here. Service is excellent and the food is exquisite!
If you do choose to have your parents dine here, make a reservation as soon as possible, tell them of the anniversary and that you have sent them there and request the Garden Room. It is a beautiful room upstairs (tourists are usually put downstairs). They never confirm the Garden Room but do request. Also order the Bread Pudding for the final touch at the end of the meal. You can order in advance (I believe) or have them order when they order main course since it takes quite a while to make.
What nice children you are!

Chris

I enjoyed dining at Commander's Palace when I was in New Orleans several years ago; however, it is rather hustle and bustle and not good if you want a cozy and quiet experience. The food is excellent and the service is great.

Shari

I heartily recommend Emerill's. Food is great and great surroundings. I also agree to B'fst at Brennans that AM. Sure it's touristy and a bit overated, but it's vacation and a neat experience.
We also like NOLA's, andother restaurant by Emeril Lagassse. Commander's is nice too, never made it to the Garden Room, but restaurant is generally very busy and pretty loud. However, if my kids sent me on a vacation anniversary, I'd settle for Taco Bell! You are sweet to do that for your parents. What ever you do they'll enjoy because it's from you>

JOAN DOYLE

Dear Mari: I've been dining in New Orleans since I first came to Louisiana to go to grad school at LSU in 1949. I've dined at all the places mentioned except Emeril's (they were VERY busy and wanted to put my young escort and me in the cocktail lounge. He declined.) I would recommend Brennan's--and that other bastion of Brennan expertise, Commander's Palace. Don't worry about the Garden Room. The main floor is fine and my young escort and I had marvelous, caring service from the maitre d' himself I too think you are very good children to do this for your parents and I hope they have a MARVELOUS time. Joan