You'll be able to get both. The old saying used to be that you don't eat oysters in months that don't have an "R" in them. That would mean most summer months because the oysters aren't as good. Did you plan to eat them raw or cooked? You wouldn't be able to really tell much difference in the cooked ones. Boiled crawfish are pretty much over because of the hot weather. Some places might still have some though. Dishes with cooked crawfish are still around because crawfish can be frozen & then used in cooking. There is always boiled shrimp if you have the urge to peel some seafood.

dgruzew-

You can get all that stuff, however, its not in season. Shrimp are though!!!

Oysters-don't don't don't eat them raw in the summer. I don't care what anyone else says. Take marine biology to find out why. Basically bacteria are really nasty in the summer. Cooking will fix this, eat them baked or otherwise. Seriously, tons of people will say, "I live there and have done this for x years". I speak from experience. I take a boat to the beds and pull my own.

Crawfish-You will find dishes cooked with crawfish this time of year. They boiled ones will be very small. A LOT of the cooked crawfish come from SE Asia this time of year, they have a thin watery taste to them. Less fat-has to do with the amount of good ole dissolved organics in the soil down there.

Shrimp are great. Enjoy the baked oysters. Blue crab is always good.

Also, for restaurants, NOBODY suggested getting a muffalata at Central Grocery. That is one experience that is incredible! Very good quality for cheap and enough to feed two people for lunch easily!

My new FAVORITE restaurant in NO is Lilette. Food, wine, atmosphere... all excellent. I also love Bayona, but was less impressed with Peristyle and Commander's Palace.

On my next trip, I will try Cuvee and August.

I live in New Orleans, and here are my recommendations. If you want raw oysters, to to Brunning's at the lakefront (West End Park) We had raw oysters there on 7/10, and they were truly awesome. And, the shucker threw in some laginappe. I think we bought 3 dozen and got at least another half dozen for free. He did appreciate an extra tip.

Commander's Palace is best for lunch/bruch. It can get pricy at night. If you do go, notice how they move the salt and pepper shakers. It's a tip to the entire wait staff that they have taken the drink order. The service is the best in the city!

Acme is always good.

Skip Emeril's. Very pricey and not that great. He owns Emeril's and Delmonico. Been to both, and I think they are over-rated.

K-Paul's is good, if you like to wait outside and sit with people you don't know. Must pay cash, also.

Thanks for adding that price isn't a concern. I disagree about another writer's comments on Antoine's. We go there every year for anniversary/birthday. It's one of our favorites. But, we are local and know our waiter.

Breakfast at Brennan's is always fun. Get Eggs (yes, I meant to spell that with a capital E) but save room for Bananas Foster. Start with a Ramos Gin Fizz.

I know you said price wasn't a concern, but if you want one of the best shrimp or oyster po-boys in the city, get on the Canal St. streetcar line and get off at Canal and Carrollton. Michael's Mid City Bar and Grill is running a summer special with half price po-boys (shrimp or oyster) that includes your choice of a side dish (slaw, fries, or tater salad) for $4.50. Michelob draft is $1. For under $10, you can get a great meal. The special is good all day Saturday, but lunch would be better for taking the street car.

Enjoy!

Melissa

K Paul's accepts reservations now and hasn't had community seating for 7 years! FYI.