Planning an anniversary trip to NO. We have been there several times since our honeymoon but this is a surprise trip. What are the great restaurants this season? We will be going in Oct.

I just had a FABULOUS dinner at Irene's in the FQ. The food and service were both great. They don't take reservations, but they have a waiter that serves drinks at tables in a waiting area, while a man plays the piano, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. This is more of a local's place (although you wouldn't know if from the wait on any given night) so it typically doesn't show up on the radar screens of tour books. However, if you can track down a review of it (citysearch, Fodors, Frommers, etc) you will see the concensus is that it is highly regarded.

Another suggestion, which i heard is quite romantic but i didn't eat at, is Bistro at Maison De Ville.

thereuare, thanks for your input. We stayed at Maison de ville last time we were in NO. It was wonderful. Charming rooms and dinner was great. I have done a NO search and Irene's seems to be the place. I believe that is just what we will do. thanks again, jwg

Bayona's, KPauls, Mr. Bs, Gallatoire's are all still great. My new favorite is GW Fins on Bienville across the street from Arnaud's. I hate the name...sounds like a chain, it's not! Fresh fish served daily and the menu changes daily. Of course it's always hard to beat Commeander's Palace.
Rob

Jan,

We just returned from an anniversary trip last week. Bayonna would be our choice as the best all around selection. Unfortunately they are not open on Sunday, which was our anniversary; but we still had a fantastic meal there.

We did have our anniversary dinner at Irene's. The food is a 4, compared to Bayonna's 5; but everything else rated a 5.

During a conversation with our waitress on why we were visiting we mentioned our anniversary. After the meal a waiter came by with a baked Alaska and asked if it was ours. We said no, and he had a total look of panic on his face. What to do with a flaming plate! The waitress came by and explained that it was our complimentary dessert.

You won't go wrong at either place. A word of advice. Reservations are just about mandatory at Bayonna, so decide quickly. Reservations are not accepted at Irene's. So either go early or expect to wait.