Local favorites ... beyond du monde
 

We're heading to NOLA beginning of June and would like to hear from the locals. What's in right now restaurant-wise? What's a special place to see - beyond the obvious - that we might overlook?

Since you asked for the "in" (happening) places, I'll try. You may have never heard of most of these, but the locals may have: <BR> <BR>Marisol (eclectic), Cafe Marigny (gourmey bistro), Lemon Grass (vietnamese) and Angeli on Decatur (casual) are all "in" now in my mind. The Red Room and the whiskey bar at the new "W" Hotel on Poydras are two happening nightspots. <BR> <BR>The D-Day Museum opens first week of June, so expect some crowds!!!!

Try Bayona on Dauphine St.(West side of the Quarter). I think it's the best in town. Make reservations a couple of weeks out.

We already have reservations for Bayona. So many things are already booking up. I believe brunches are just about closed..but call now. Graduations are happening then as well.

Unfortunately, the true hot spots are almost impossible to get into these days, unless you go at 4:30 or 10 p.m. on a Tuesday (no reservations). These include Dick & Jenny's and Jacque-Imo's, both dress-down but fabulous. You'll love Bayona. I second Cafe Marigny (excellent for brunch and bring you own wine). You might try to make reservations at Gautreau's, Brigtsen's or Christian's. None are new but not too well known to the out of town crowd.