Going to NO for a bachelor party in April and want to book reservations in advance for a large party of 12. I'd like to have a great dinner experience but the fellas are not going to go for "jackets required". We're not a rough bunch but we'll definitely be having a good time. Where can we go that will have excellent food with a lively dining experience without being too stuffy? Arnauds, Bayona, Commander's, Galatories all sound great but are these restaurants too fancy for a bunch of wiley bachelors?

Most of the places you mention, are 'jacket req.' I'd probably vote for Dickie Brennans (Steakhouse). You'll also be, um, close to the action.

Commanders is hard to beat for food. It is a little upscale, but I don't remember it requiring a coat.

How about Emeril's? the food is amazing and the atmosphere is fun and not stuffy.

NOLA (another Emeril establishment) has a great bar - loud, close, vibe-y, and they'd be able to handle the party for dinner - and it's dressy casual. Another casual option might be Mandina's on Canal - a cool local's favorite that had nice banquet-style rooms before the remodel. I haven't been since "K", so I don't know if they still seat groups away from the other diners. It's a little further up Canal from the Quarter, but reachable by street car. Neither of the above places would balk at a fun, boisterous, group!

Highly recommend Cochon in the Warehouse District. It is one of the hot restaurants in NOLA right now. Had a group function there a couple of months ago. Very accomodating. Called ahead and they put together a "family-style" dinner for the group. Fantastic food and service. They have a great selection of moonshines...sounds crazy, worth a try.