We are spending our 16th anniversary in New Orleans and would like a recommendation for a very special dinner. I need to make up for a near disaster last year.

Thanks for the help.

We liked the Court of Two Sisters...

I'm going to sound like a broken record on this one, but I can't imagine a trip to New Orleans with at least one meal at Commander's Palace. We've been going there for decades and they've always been great. Ask for a room overlooking the garden. Two other great places: Bayona and the Grill Room
at Windsor Court. Try doing a search of New Orleans on this board and you'll get more suggestions than you want or need.

Dear Jerry: I agree with the previous poster: for an anniversary,I can't think of a better spot than Commander's Palace. When you make the reservation tell them why you're coming. Take a cab to go to and from but otherwise just have a marvelous time, cher! Joan

Do NOT go to the Court of Two Sisters. Overpriced tourist ripoff. Commander's is a far better choice.

I agree with John about the Court of Two Sisters. I keep seeing it recommended on this board, but please don't go there. Commander's is an excellent choice. Other options to consider would be Bayona or Bella Luna (great view of the river).

The best meal I had in New Orleans -- and in fact, one of the top two meals I've ever had in my life -- was at a small restaurant called Peristyle. Absolutely unforgettable food and small, intimate atmosphere. Excellent service, not fussy, totally memorable in every respect.

Ooh yes! Peristyle is wonderful. Lately, it's been ranked as one of the best in New Orleans in just about every poll/survey!

Peristyle is definitely on our list for our upcoming trip in mid-Dec. How far ahead would you recommend making reservations (for a Thursday night)?

And Meg, where is Bella Luna? Italian?

Thanks.

Peristyle is good. I live a block from it and somehow always seem to forget about it. I'd try to make reservations now if you are interested in it. (504/595-9535) It's a very small, quiet place.

Bella Luna is right on the river at 914 N. Peters Street just past Dumaine Street. Yes, it's Italian but the menu also has things like duck enchiladas. Pastas are a specialty. The chef is German, so it's just a mix of some very different things. (504/529-1583).

All the suggestions you've been given (other than Court of Two Sisters) are excellent choices for an anniversary celebration. You can't go wrong with any of them.

i am curious to know what you all did not like about the court of two sisters.

As with most cities, New Orleans has some restaurants that became popular over the years and forgot that food is their "primary reason for being." Among them: Antoine's, Court of Two Sisters, and Tujagues. All are nice places but can provide really iffy food and/or service. They still have their fans but for my money I'd take Peristyle, Pelican Club, Marisol, or one of the newer places that really tries!

Peristyle is an excellent choice. Food and service are wonderful. Make reservations as soon as possible. I was there on the Thursday before Halloween and couldnt get anything after 6:30.

My problem with Court of Two Sisters is that it is just way over priced for the food they serve. I admit, it's a ton of food, but it reminds me of a Shoney's breakfast bar. If you want to splurge on a meal, there are a lot better places at which to do so. Catering to the masses usually means a decline in the quality of food, and I think this is what has happened here.

Bad news! Peristyle burned last night. It didn't burn to the ground, but it looked pretty bad from my balcony just down the street. Anyway, just wanted to let you all know that if you have reservations in the near future, you might want to check and be prepared to make other plans. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

Oh no! I love Peristyle!! I just saw on the news that the fire was actually in the apartment above the restaurant and that Peristyle just has water damage. Let's hope they can reopen soon!

John - Etes-vous dans ma classe de francais a l'alliance francaise samedi matins?

Commander's Palace was outstanding. One of the best meals I ever had. If you go, do get the Bread Pudding Souffle with Whiskey sauce!
Ellen

All of the restaurants are good recommendations (I liked 2 Sisters about 5 years ago). But, if you are looking for a romantic setting and good food as well, I would urge you to go to Commander's Palace. Make reservations well in advance and tell them it's your anniversary. Congrats.

Is Brightsen's still around? I havent been to New Orleans in about 4 years and I'm going back next week. I loved this place.