I'll second the vote for Marisol's! Beautiful courtyard, too, and right down the street from the Spotted Cat for some after dinner jazz.
Another great casual spot is Jacques Imo's at the other end of town.

To Budman:
Do you know there is a national REC convention in NOLA over Val. Day weekend. Hope you have all your reservations made, as it might be impossible to get much once all the convention reservations are made.

cakelady, Thanks for the heads up. I have made reservations at Muriels for Valentine's day. I am looking at maybe booking Brigtsen's Friday night, but we just may want to wing it.

We're really looking forward to our stay in NOLA. Been almost 15 years for me, and my wife has never experienced the Big Easy. Should I leave my beads at home? ((b))

We were in NO two weeks ago. Went to Brigtsen's. It was great! We went on Tuesday night and ordered the early bird dinner. Best deal in town. Would go back there in an instant. We also loved brunch at Commander's Palace.

Forgot to mention another great restaurant, Wolfe's of New Orleans. It is by the marina. We loved it. You can check out their website at www.wolfesofneworleans.com. It is operated by former Emeril?s sous chef Tom Wolfe. I highly recommend the white chocolate butter bars for dessert!

We made a discovery last year (the locals have known about this place forever!) It's call "Ugelsich's" and it's at 1238 Baronne St. and not very close to the FQ, but well worth a cab ride. Do a search on it and you'll see some reviews and history on this place. It is only open M-F from 10a to 4p and they only serve lunch. The best lunch we have ever had in N.O.! The place looks like an absolute dive. You need to get their early, because they have a very strong following, and fill up past 11:30.
Sorry SAnParis, I realize you are looking for a NEW N.O. restaurant, but someone did ask for a good lunch place.

So many good places in New Orleans.
We were just there in December for a losng weekend and such a list it was difficult to choose.

Jacqueamos ( Sp ) Garden district
Muriels
Mr. B's Bistro
Commanders Palace ( Jazz Brunch )
Acme Oyster
Giant Game superdome ( a disaster )