Respond to this Story

Contributors: Kris Bares, Shala Carlson, Sue Ceravolo, Frank Etheridge, Kandace Power Graves, Megan Graves, Allen Johnson Jr, David Kunian, Eileen Loh Harrist, Katy Reckdahl, David Lee Simmons and Eliza Strickland

SEA LEVEL owner Andrew Martinez does double duty in the kitchen of the S. Carrollton Avenue restaurant.

Photo by Cheryl Gerber

BAYOU ST. JOHN

CAFE DEGAS
3127 Esplanade Ave. 945-5635
www.cafedegas.com
For exquisite French cuisine in a romantic setting, locals flock to the Cafe Degas. Start off with a salad of warm goat cheese, apples and toasted walnuts drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, then move on to the beef tenderloin with blue cheese butter or the poached shrimp with roasted garlic flan. Reservations recommended. Lunch Tuesday through Saturday, dinner daily, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$

CC'S COFFEE
2800 Esplanade Ave. 482-9865
www.ccscoffee.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

ESPLANADE RESTAURANT
3443 Esplanade Ave. (Park Esplanade Apartments) 821-8939
This restaurant is an obvious favorite of the residents of the apartment dwellers above, but plenty of other folks come by for the light lunches such as the grilled shrimp salad and pea soup. Come by Friday evenings for the fresh fish special, crabcakes or crispy fried shrimp. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards and checks. $

GABRIELLE RESTAURANT
3201 Esplanade Ave. 948-6233
Chefs Greg and Mary Sonnier invite you to their elegant and intimate restaurant in the historic Faubourg St. John neighborhood, near the Fair Grounds race track. The Sonniers recommend the poppy seed-crusted halibut, with white beans, spinach and roast pecan meuniere. Reservations recommended. Dinner Tuesday through Saturday, lunch Friday. Lunch served every Thursday in December. Credit cards. $$$

LIUZZA'S BY THE TRACK
1518 N. Lopez St. 943-8667
www.nola.com/sites/liuzzas
It's a safe bet you'll be pleased with your meal every time at this quintessential New Orleans neighborhood dining spot near the Fair Grounds. Local classics such as Creole gumbo keep regulars coming back. It's made with sausage, chicken and lots of seasonings as well as fresh sauteed shrimp and oysters. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, lunch Saturday. Credit cards. $

LOLA'S
3312 Esplanade Ave. 488-6946
A popular place for those looking for upscale Mediterranean food in a casual, comfy setting, Lola's offers a variety of menu choices. A rack of lamb is rubbed with romescu (almonds and tomato paste) sauce and grilled, then served with gorgonzola cheese sauce as well as basmati rice and grilled vegetables. No reservations. Dinner daily. Checks. $$

RESTAURANT INDIGO
2285 Bayou Road 947-0123
www.restaurantindigo.com
With its view of greenery and gardens, Restaurant Indigo is one of the prettiest spots in town. For appetizers, Chef Jared Katz has created the crab and lobster Brie gratin, topped with Parmesan and served with pesto crostini. Entrees include roasted lamb ribeye and rabbit Oscar -- paneed rabbit with jumbo lump crabmeat, zucchini and bearnaise sauce. Reservations recommended. Dinner Tuesday through Sunday, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$$

WHOLE FOODS MARKET
3135 Esplanade Ave. 943-1626
www.wholefoodsmarket.com
The first New Orleans location of Whole Foods is popular with the neighbors for its organic produce, specialty goods and prepared foods. The prepared food counters include salad bars, sandwiches, deli meats and cheeses, and gourmet-to-go items. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards and checks. $



BUCKTOWN

II TONY'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND SEAFOOD
105 Old Hammond Hwy., Metairie 831-0999
www.two-tonys.com
This father/son operation serves up the finest from land and sea, with specialty dishes such as the pecan-crusted speckled trout, topped with a meuniere sauce. Light lunchers can pick from a variety of soups, salads and pastas, such as the pasta Mediterranean with grilled gulf shrimp. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Credit cards. $$

DEANIE'S SEAFOOD
1713 Lake Ave., Metairie 831-4141
www.deanies.com
Deanie's flagship restaurant in Bucktown raised boiling seafood to an art form, then exported that knowledge to the newer French Quarter location. The crawfish quartet bowls customers over with crawfish etouffee, crawfish au gratin, fried crawfish tails and crawfish-dressing balls, and the crab quartet runs along similar lines. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

MELIUS BAR & CAFE
1701 Lake Ave., Metairie 828-9446
Melius could be called a haven for weekend working warriors, with coffee and donuts served all day starting at 6 a.m. Melius stays open 24 hours on Fridays and serves a rotating list of daily specials such as the standard red beans on Mondays. Sample the BLTs, burgers, salads, patty melts and a large appetizer list. The nightcrawlers stay until 3 a.m. when the grill's still open. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, 24 hours Friday, late-night Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $

NEW ORLEANS FOOD & SPIRITS
210 Old Hammond Hwy., Metairie 828-2220
New Orleans Food & Spirits serves up tasty appetizers and down-home comfort seafood platters in lower Bucktown. Consider the softshell Lafayette, a fried softshell crab garnished with shrimp sauce. Reservations accepted on Monday through Friday. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Thursday through Saturday. Credit cards. $

R&O PIZZA PLACE
216 Old Hammond Hwy., Metairie 831-1248
For years, Bucktown residents have relied on R&O's for quality seafood and pizzas. Roast beef, shrimp, and catfish po-boys are also in high demand, but not to be overlooked is the seafood stew with crawfish, shrimp and crab claws slow-cooked in a red sauce, served over fresh angel hair pasta or whole wheat pasta. All that seafood sometimes obscures the Place's namesake: delicious pizza. Lunch and dinner Wednesday through Monday. Credit cards. $

SID-MAR'S OF BUCKTOWN
1824 Orpheum Ave., Metairie 831-9541
www.sidmarsofbucktown.com
With the change of seasons, there are few better places to enjoy fresh, daily-made soups and broiled softshell crabs than the pride of Bucktown, Sid-Mar's. Other specialties of this restaurant that overlooks Lake Pontchartrain include the grilled tuna salad, fresh charbroiled amberjack and the seafood platter. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Credit cards. $$



BYWATER

ADAM'S BARBECUE PLUS
1246 Franklin Ave. 942-1100
At Adam's, meat is served smoked and grilled -- and slathered with barbecue sauce. You do have a choice of meat, with pork ribs, beef ribs and chicken all on the menu, served with your choice of baked beans, baked macaroni, jambalaya, potato salad or candied yams. Lunch delivery available for orders of $30 or more. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Cash only. $

BYWATER BBQ
3162 Dauphine St. 944-4445
Bywater BBQ feeds patrons all day with crepes, omelettes and fritatas for breakfast; soups, pasta and po-boys for lunch; and ribs, chicken and pork for dinner. Barbecue lovers can take sweet, tangy and smoky meals out on the patio and enjoy the great neighborhood feel. Reservations accepted for parties of six or more. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, brunch and dinner Saturday and Sunday. Credit cards. $

COUNTRY CLUB
634 Louisa St. 945-0742
www.countryclubneworleans.com
All the renovations and changes in scheduled events have transformed the Country Club, including the food service. Two favorites are the Snacka De Mama, a hot-pressed Italian sandwich made with cappicola and smoked provolone, and the various types of quiche all made with farm-fresh eggs. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

ELIZABETH'S RESTAURANT
601 Gallier St. 944-9272
www.elizabeths-restaurant.com
For Saturday brunch at this Bywater gem, open your eyes to the eggs Elizabeth -- buttered French bread, grilled and topped with ham, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. The affordable daily lunch specials change often due to the imagination of proprietress Heidi Trull, but keep your eyes open for the oyster and spinach salad with Herbsaint dressing. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Tuesday through Saturday, brunch Saturday. Credit cards and checks. $

JACK DEMPSEY'S
738 Poland Ave. 943-9914
There's some good eatin' down in the Bywater -- especially at this old-time neighborhood seafood spot. The steak and lobster special for $17.95 is a real meal deal. So is the J.D. Platter, heaped with two stuffed crabs, two crawfish pies, two cups of gumbo, and loads of fried shrimp, oysters, catfish and redfish. No reservations. Lunch Tuesday through Friday, dinner Wednesday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$

MANDICH RESTAURANT
3200 St. Claude Ave. 947-9553
Come to Mandich for your fix of fine Louisiana cooking. The roasted pork loin hits the spot when paired with local sweet potatoes and soaked in onion gravy. Another house specialty is the grilled yellowfin tuna with lemon sauce and Cajun popcorn, aka fried crawfish tails. The turtle soup is a family recipe. Reservations recommended. Lunch Tuesday through Friday, dinner Friday and Saturday. Credit cards. $$



CARROLLTON

BANGKOK THAI
513 S. Carrollton Ave. 861-3932
Try the pad Thai and pick your favorite ingredients from juicy shrimp to thin sliced chicken or even vegetarian or choose the coconut milk and red curry with fresh Asian herbs and pick your own meat. If you need even more options try the buffet or lunch specials Monday through Friday. Reservations accepted. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner daily. Credit Cards. $

BARROW'S RESTAURANT AND BAR
2714 Mistletoe St. 482-9427
Go for the catfish and stay for more catfish, order for two or your table. Enjoy a cup of lemonade or sweet tea, but don't expect beer or wine. This bar has no alcohol, although you may not need any after staring too long into the classic neon light that illuminates the Earhart Expressway -- "you just can't miss it." No reservations. Lunch Thursday through Saturday, dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Cash only. $$

BASIL LEAF
1438 S. Carrollton Ave. 862-9001
Sample the seasonal fish; for the more adventurous, try the lightly fried half duck with gingered vegetables and a five spice Cabernet sauce. Thursday wine tastings pair vintages with nouveau Thai fare. Reservations accepted. Dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

BRIGTSEN'S
723 Dante St. 861-7610
www.brigtsens.com
This romantic Riverbend restaurant is the product of culinary star Frank Brigtsen. New Orleans diners owe a debt of gratitude to Brigtsen, who changes his menu weekly and woos us with his personalized form of Creole/Cajun cooking. Among the main courses is Brigtsen's seafood platter: grilled drum, sauteed shrimp with basil shrimp sauce and a choice of several delectable baked oysters. Reservations recommended. Dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$$

CAFE VOLAGE
720 Dublin St. 861-4227
Cafe Volage offers a cozy retreat in the Riverbend area. The popular osso buco features a braised veal shank in a demi-glace of scallion, mushroom and red wine, served with fettuccine Alfredo. The Sunday brunch menu boasts 10 entree choices, dessert and all-you-can-drink champagne for $17.95. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$

CAMELLIA GRILL
626 S. Carrollton Ave. 866-9573
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a meal at this landmark diner. Omelettes the size of a dinner plate, crisp skinny French fries, thick ice cream shakes -- it's all plentiful and good. The staff is entertaining, and listen for the diner banter. Watch them cook your burger, then watch them heat up your apple pie on the same grill, and don't forget the a la mode. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Cash only. $

CC'S COFFEE
630 S. Carrollton Ave. 865-0027
www.ccscoffee.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

CHINA ORCHID
704 S. Carrollton Ave. 865-1428
Fresh, healthy Chinese cooking in the Mandarin, Szechuan and Hunan style is the hallmark of this establishment. For two decades, diners at China Orchid have been diving into favorites like General Tsao's Chicken and the extremely popular Emperor's Chow Mein: pan-fried noodles with chicken, beef, shrimp, pork and vegetables in a brown sauce. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

CIRO'S COTE SUD
7918 Maple St. 866-9551
Haute-cuisine menu items include a roasted duck breast with a peach, apricot and bourbon sauce on a bed of pureed potatoes. Another house favorite is the steamed mussels with a blue cheese and cream reduction sauce. Delivery available. Reservations recommended. Dinner daily. Checks. $$

DANTE'S KITCHEN
736 Dante St. 861-3121
www.danteskitchen.com
This charming restaurant is tucked away in a Creole cottage near the riverbend, and has outdoor tables for balmy nights. Watch for exciting seasonal specials like the wild boar cookout from Chef Emanuel Loubier, who also makes a killer crabmeat and brie French toast. Reservations recommended for parties of six or more. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner daily, brunch Saturday and Sunday. Credit cards. $$

DOSON'S NOODLE HOUSE
8128 Oak St. 861-9724
Doson's offers two restaurants in one, combing the flavors of Vietnam and China with everything from spring rolls to the specialty beef noodle pho. Seafood and meat are ably represented by such dishes as black pepper shrimp and mu shu pork, and vegetarians will love the Chinese eggplant in a hot garlic sauce. Reservations accepted. Lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner daily. Credit cards and checks. $$

FIGARO'S PIZZERIA
7900 Maple St. 866-0100
Long a favorite of the university crowd, Figaro's appeals to all with an inviting patio and first-rate pizza in the thin-crust Neopolitan tradition, with toppings such as artichokes, feta cheese, Roma tomatoes and spinach. Italian specialties fill out the menu with offerings such as paneed veal, mussels Figaro and the original seafood canola. Delivery available. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards and checks. $$

FIVE HAPPINESS
3605 S. Carrollton Ave. 482-3935
www.fivehappiness.com
This dependable Chinese restaurant has brought good cheer to families for more than 20 years. The shrimp with honey-roasted pecans is a specialty, and classics include General Tsao's chicken and Mongolian beef. The Double Feature Szechuan Style combines shrimp and diced chicken with dried hot peppers and cashews. Delivery available. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

G.B.'S PATIO BAR AND GRILL
8117 Maple St. 861-0067
Fall means football, and GB's offers a wide range of appetizers for Monday Night Football viewing. Servings of potato skins and chili dogs are $2. An extra buck will get you chicken quesadillas, nachos, buffalo wings, chicken tenders and mozzarella sticks. Menu faves include the tenderloin and ribeye steaks, and juicy burgers with either crispy seasoned fries or a loaded baked potato. No reservations. Lunch Friday through Sunday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

HAAGEN-DAZS
8108 Hampson St. 861-1005
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

HANA JAPANESE RESTAURANT
8116 Hampson St. 865-1634
Located near the riverbend, this sushi house is a perfect respite after a few hours of shopping. The chef is creative with his sushi rolls, with offerings such as the oyster roll: breaded, fried oysters wrapped in a roll with cucumber and green onion. A long menu of teriyaki, tempura and noodle dishes should please everyone. Reservations recommended for parties of six or more. Lunch and dinner daily. Delivery available. Credit cards. $$

IL PIATTO
7708 Maple St. 861-0002
Opening in late November, this Carrollton restaurant (housed in the former Nautical location) will feature Italian dishes for less than $15. Enjoy dining on the patio, and watch fresh pasta being prepared daily in the glass-encased side room. Try the pancetta-wrapped trout with grilled polenta and wild mushrooms. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

JACQUES-IMO'S CAFE
8324 Oak St. 861-0886
While you wait for your table, grab a cocktail and savor the smells coming from the kitchen -- they'll stoke your appetite for dishes such as the pork chop stuffed with ground beef and shrimp. Another popular fall dish is the roasted acorn squash with mixed seafood in a curry coconut cream sauce (non-dairy!). The long regular and specials menus can be overwhelming, but don't overlook the shrimp and alligator sausage cheesecake or steamed mussels in tomato basil broth. Reservations accepted for parties of five or more. Dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$

JAMILA'S CAFE
7808 Maple St. 866-4366
Treat yourself to a taste of Mediterranean and Tunisian cuisine at this cozy Uptown cafe, where flamenco guitarists play for your pleasure on Friday nights. Unusual concoctions include the Tajine of lamb, where a boneless leg of lamb is cooked in a terra cotta dish and served with marinated garlic and saffron rice. The grilled red snapper and the fish chowder are also popular choices. Reservations recommended. Lunch Tuesday through Friday, dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Credit cards. $$

LA MADELEINE
601 S. Carrollton Ave. 861-8662
www.lamadeleine.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

LEBANON'S CAFE
1506 S. Carrollton Ave. 862-6200
Vegetarians will delight in the Mediterranean handling of the Sauteed Plate, which includes a garden's bounty of sauteed onions, green beans, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery, yellow squash, zucchini and red, green and yellow peppers placed atop basmati rice, crowned with feta cheese and baked. Carnivores may prefer the 16-oz. lamb chop seasoned with rosemary and cooked on the grill. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

MANGO HOUSE
8115 Jeannette St. 862-5848
Chef-owner Anne Lloyd treats us to a taste of the Caribbean with her restaurant, still in its first year of operation. Among the offerings are jerk chicken, a grilled half-chicken marinated in garlic, ginger, thyme and habanero peppers, and the Shrimp Rundown, a half-pound of jumbo shrimp served in a coconut cream sauce. No reservations. Dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$

MAPLE STREET CAFE
7623 Maple St. 314-9003
The neighborhood cafe offers filet mignon topped with portobello mushrooms and a balsamic demi-glace. Also available are rotating daily specials. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, dinner Sunday. Credit cards. $$

MAT & NADDIE'S
937 Leonidas St. 861-9600
In the Riverbend sits a cottage with Civil War history and food to match. The neighborhood feel extends from its outdoor dining to its welcoming service. Mat & Naddie's takes pride in its steamed cane syrup with tomatoes and rosemary, acorn and butternut squash puree, Swiss charred smoked Gouda egg rolls, and foie gras with a Creole mustard demi-glace. Reservations recommended. Lunch Tuesday through Friday, dinner Thursday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$

MAURICE FRENCH PASTRIES
1114-A S. Carrollton Ave. 866-7052
Chef-owner Jean-Luc Albin supplies desserts and custom-ordered cakes while offering wedding creations year round. The current menu includes fresh fruit cakes and the Kugelhoph, a sour cream pound cake offered in flavors such as almond, blueberry, white chocolate, raspberry, lemon, currant, chocolate chip and the limited-edition pumpkin. No reservations. Open daily. Credit cards. $

MIKIMOTO
3301 S. Carrollton Ave. 488-1881
The 99-cent sushi piece is a daily special that keeps them coming. Mikimoto's caters to thrifty, but the sushi rolls hold their own in interesting combinations. The Crunchy Dynamite Roll is a favorite, with tuna, salmon, chile sauce and tempura crunchies. Lunchtime customers can enjoy the chicken Katsu with a soup, salad or rice. Delivery available. Reservations accepted. Lunch Sunday through Friday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $

NICK'S ON CARROLLTON
1120 S. Carrollton Ave. 866-1414
Nick's dinner plates serve up new twists on old standard comfort foods, such as the popular Carrollton Special, a fried chicken sandwich on an onion roll with cheddar cheese and grilled onions, dressed with chips. The full-service bar can whip up a mimosa for brunch or a specialty shot for celebrating. No reservations. Lunch Monday and Tuesday, dinner Monday through Friday, brunch weekends. Credit cards and checks. $

NINJA
8433 Oak St. 866-1119
Newcomers to Japanese cuisine will love Ninja's dinner for two, a special that introduces an array of Japanese favorites, tempura, beef and chicken teriyaki, gyzoa, edamame, hiviki and seaweed salad, and choice of two rolls. Ideal for dates. Also on the menu is an extensive list of sushi rolls. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Tuesday and Sunday. Credit cards. $$

O'HENRY'S FOOD & SPIRITS
634 S. Carrollton Ave. 866-9741
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

PADRINO'S
8132 Hampson St. 314-9088
Padrino's regulars can breathe with relief now that the Riverbend restaurant has been renovated from fire damage and is reopening its doors. Consider the house specialty: chicken Padrino is stuffed with ham, fontina cheese and spinach, and topped with a white wine mushroom cream sauce. An authentic Italian dessert, panna cotta, has been added -- cream custard with seasonal fresh fruit sauce. Reservations recommended. Lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

PICCADILLY CAFETERIA
3800 S. Carrollton Ave. 482-0775
www.piccadilly.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

PJ'S COFFEE & TEA
7624 Maple St. 866-7031
www.pjscoffee.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

RED STAR CHINESE
8330 Earhart Blvd. 861-1933
At the end of the Earhart Expressway is Red Star Chinese, where you can start your meal with the crab Rangoon, a fried treat filled with crabmeat and cream cheese. Shrimp fried rice and an egg roll can be added to the entree of your choice or fill up on a combination plate. Delivery available. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

RICCOBONO'S PANOLA STREET CAFE
7801 Panola St. 314-1810
Stretch out at this classic cafe with the newspaper, breakfast and a strong cup of coffee. Frequent customers walk in the door craving the huevos rancheros -- two corn tortillas, black beans, two eggs, salsa, cheddar cheese, guacamole, sour cream -- or the eggs Pontchartrain, a Louisiana twist on eggs Benedict with crawfish saute in place of Canadian bacon. If you prefer sweet to savory, try the Belgian waffles and pancakes -- plain, strawberry, blueberry or banana nut. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch daily. Credit cards. $

RUE DE LA COURSE
1140 S. Carrollton Ave. 861-4343
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

SARA'S
724 Dublin St. 861-0565
www.sarasrestaurant.com
Sara's takes a global view of cuisine, offering Thai, Indian, Caribbean and Creole fusion dishes. The honey-ginger scallops are pan-seared and served over sesame angel hair pasta. Other inventions include the Louisiana crawfish egg roll and the shrimp satay: pan-seared prawns served in a spicy peanut sauce. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Credit cards and checks. $$

STARBUCKS COFFEE CO.
7700 Maple St. 864-0411
www.starbucks.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

YE OLDE COLLEGE INN
3016 S. Carrollton Ave. 866-3683
Rock 'n' Bowl owner John Blancher has taken over and left most of the menu the same. Oyster omelettes, avocado and shrimp salad, and fried green tomatoes topped with shrimp remoulade are some of the highlights at this homey Uptown diner. The grilled amberjack works well with jumbo boiled shrimp, mashed potatoes, fried tortilla strips and a lobster sauce. No reservations. Breakfast Saturday and Sunday, lunch and dinner daily, late-night Friday and Saturday. Credit cards. $$

ZACHARY'S
8400 Oak St. 865-1559
Ask your server about the daily specials, investigate the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet, or go for the tried-and-true staples such as the seafood gumbo, fried chicken and bread pudding. Reservations accepted. Lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner Wednesday through Saturday, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$




CBD

ALLEGRO BISTRO
1100 Poydras St. 582-2350
This downtown bistro is continuing its extended lunch hours for the upcoming NBA season in honor of the New Orleans Hornets. Lunch diners will never go wrong with house specialties such as prime filets, barbecue shrimp and grilled Gulf fish. The roasted garlic soup and seafood gumbo will keep you coming back. Reservations accepted. Lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $$

ANTHONY'S SEAFOOD & LOBSTER HOUSE
#1 Poydras St., Suite 113 (Riverwalk Marketplace) 524-1243
One of the most pleasing and refined seafood restaurants in town is Anthony's Seafood. Chef Chad Bonnet prepares several lobster dishes for your dining enjoyment, the specialty being the zesty blackened lobster. The varied menu offers more seafood and regional fare. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$$

BAYOU BAGELRY
830 Gravier St. 524-5001
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

BENJARONG
228 Camp St. (Omni Crescent Hotel) 571-7500
The fusion cooking empire that brought you Bangkok Cuisine, La Thai Cuisine and Panasia expands to the CBD with this restaurant blending Creole and Thai approaches. We like the sound of the Naked Shrimp Salad featuring jumbo butterfly shrimp, and the grilled chicken Benjarong: Thai-spiced grilled chicken with stir-fried glass noodles and fresh vegetables. Reservations accepted. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

CAFE ARABESQUE
211 LaSalle St. 524-6455
www.cafearabesque.com
This popular downtown lunch spot provides a perfect introduction to Middle Eastern food with dishes such as the Mezze Platter: a sampling of hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, falafel, and stuffed grape leaves. The innovative sandwich menu includes the heat-pressed Buena Vista Club Sandwich, with ham, turkey, tomatoes, avocado and Muenster cheese on focaccia bread. Delivery available. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

CAFE DU MONDE
1400 Poydras St. (New Orleans Centre) 587-0842
1 Poydras St. (Riverwalk Marketplace) 587-0841
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

CAJUN MIKE'S PUB 'N' GRUB
116 Baronne St. 566-0055
Inside the CBD, office workers escape their cubicles for bubbling bowls of seafood gumbo, crispy oyster po-boys and smoky red beans and rice with spicy sausage. Ask for Maria's Cubanito and get a taste of something different, with a hot Cuban sandwich filled with pulled pork, pickles, mustard and ham. No reservations. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $

CC'S COFFEE
2 Poydras St. (New Orleans Hilton Riverside) 525-0024
650 Poydras St. (Poydras Center) 586-0278
www.ccscoffee.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

COBALT
333 St. Charles Ave. 565-5595
www.cobaltrestaurant.com
Lunchers feast on the likes of hickory-smoked pork tenderloin with white cheddar mashed potatoes, and the dinner menu features crispy corn cakes smothered in wild mushrooms and sage-truffle pecorino. Reservations recommended. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Credit cards. $$

COFFEE & COMPANY
1515 Poydras St. 522-3335
This Poydras Street coffee shop bustles with lunching businesspeople who come in for the bagels, hot meals, salads and sweets. A favorite item for a midday bite is the Cobb salad, with turkey, bacon, lettuce and tomato topped with avocado and rich blue cheese. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch daily. Credit cards and checks. $

COUVILLONI'S RESTAURANT AND CATERING
2036 Poydras St. 522-0441
Couvilloni's offers an array of gourmet pizzas, sandwiches and salads with a focus on fresh ingredients that keeps the CBD lunch crowd happy. Two popular salads are the chicken Caesar salad and the Mediterranean salad with sun-dried tomato dressing. Lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $

CRYSTAL ROOM
833 Poydras St. (Le Pavillon Hotel) 581-3111
www.lepavillon.com
The grandiose Crystal Room takes its name from the tinkling chandelier, and offers an elegant dining experience. For lunch, sample the gourmet pasta and salad bar. Dinner features a full gourmet menu with house specialties such as beef burgundy for two, flame-broiled beef tenderloin tips served over a bed of buttered noodles. Reservations recommended. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

DIXIE GYROS
110 Carondelet St. 523-6614.
The name signals the cultural fusion at this popular lunch spot. The trademark beef, lamb, and chicken gyros are served either on pita bread or a baguette depending on your mood, and beignets are available in the morning. Tasty vegetarian items include Greek salad and falafel sandwiches. Delivery available. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

DOC SMITH'S
1009 Poydras St. 561-0528
This annex of Smith & Wollensky's is a popular evening hangout, especially for sports fans who want to watch the game with a group of friends. The menu runs to snacks, like muffalettas, mini-burgers and pigs-in-blankets filled with andouille sausage. There's beer on tap and cocktails including the hurricane, mojito and mint julep. No reservations. Dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $$

GENGHIS KHAN
201 Baronne St. (Baronne Plaza Hotel) 299-9009
Genghis Khan is locally renowned for Korean cooking and live music, ranging from violin serenades to Broadway musical renditions by solo vocalists. Owner Henry Lee entreats diners to try the whole fish, a black drum marinated in white wine and other ingredients and tempura-fried and served with a light ginger garlic sauce. Vocal and instrumental performances begin at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations recommended for dinner. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

HORINOYA
920 Poydras St. 561-8914
For a working lunch or leisurely dinner, Horinoya is an Asian oasis in the CBD. Sushi rolls cover the gamut from the tried-and-true (California roll, rainbow roll, crunchy roll) to the more experimental -- such as the soybean pepper roll, or the dragon roll with eel, avocado and crabmeat. Combo dishes are popular, too, including the sushi and chicken teriyaki plate. Reservations accepted. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

HUEY'S 24/7 DINER
200 Magazine St., 598-4839
www.hueys247diner.com
From recent "40 Under 40" honoree and Wine Loft owner Jason Doyle comes this 3-month-old, round-the-clock diner that puts a decidedly sophisticated spin on the traditional retro-diner vibe. Vintage diner gear contrasts with oak-and-brass furniture here, though you can still get a burger for less than $8. No reservations. Open 24 hours. Credit cards. $

ITALIAN PIE
417 S. Rampart St. 522-7552
www.italianpierestaurants.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

THE JAMBALAYA SHOPPE
701 Poydras St. (One Shell Square) 522-0138
It's possible to find down-home country cooking right in the heart of New Orleans' bustling downtown area. During lunchtime on the weekdays, business types sit down to classic comfort food including chicken stew with bacon gravy, pork roast, shrimp stew and fettuccine, and, naturally, the namesake dish. No reservations. Lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

JOHNNIE'S PO-BOYS
827 Perdido St. 523-9883
The name of the game is po-boys (with fried seafood varieties a favorite), but the daily plate lunches shouldn't be overlooked. Specials include spaghetti and meatballs on Tuesday, hamburger steak on Wednesday, and fried chicken with butter beans on Thursday. Breakfast options include egg dishes such as the Western omelette with sausage, bacon, ham and cheese. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $

KABBY'S ON THE RIVER
2 Poydras St. (Hilton Hotel) 584-3880
While Kabby's recently underwent renovations, much of the popular menu and meals remain, including the Sunday champagne jazz brunch, which, for $32 a person, you can have unlimited trips to the omelette, beef-carving and seafood stations. For dinner, try the filet of grouper, which comes with crawfish mashed potatoes (seasoned and spiced with the mud bugs mixed in). Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$$

KABBY'S SPORTS EDITION GRILLE
2 Poydras St. (Hilton Hotel) 584-3880
While Kabby's Sports Edition Grille has much of the same menu as the adjoining Kabby's on the River, it does offer a plush setting with 52 televisions to watch any and all games. Off the menu, try the spinach salad with goat cheese, or the Thai pork ribs, which are prepared with a spicy glaze sauce and served with fried rice. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

LEMON GRASS RESTAURANT
217 Camp St. (International House Hotel) 523-1200
www.lemongrassrest.com.
Chef Minh Bui's sophisticated blend of Vietnamese, Louisiana and French tastes have garnered accolades from diners for years. This season's offerings include chicken Roti, seared lemon grass-marinated cubes of chicken breast served with steamed vegetables and two kinds of rice; pan-roasted filet mignon with wild mushroom sauce, haricot vert and a trio of mashed potatoes; and wok-smoked salmon steak with grilled stack vegetables and balsamic reduction. Reservations recommended. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$$

LIBORIO CUBAN RESTAURANT
321 Magazine St. 581-9680
If your taste buds demand the tastes of Cuba, you'll find a wide selection of choices at this Uptown restaurant. Try the Ropa Vieja, a beef brisket stewed with onions, olive oil, tomatoes, garlic and onion and then served with black beans and rice. Another popular choice is the seafood paella, which comes with lobster, shrimp, fish and chicken in saffron rice with sweet plantains. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $

MAW MAW'S KITCHEN
3674 Derbigny St. (behind Whitey's Pool Hall) 833-6297
Just a block and a half off of Airline Drive, Maw Maw's offers up cooking with love -- the way your mama used to do it. With special chicken wings Tuesdays and steak night Wednesdays, Maw Maw's always serves good food at good prices. Also popular are the hot plates and muffalettas. Lunch and dinner daily Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $

MIDI
614 Canal St. (JW Marriott Hotel) 527-6712
www.midirestaurant.com
This Canal Street destination combines an interesting twist on French food with Mediterranean accents. Midi offers signature dishes such as the Crab Cake Lafitte and the honey lavender smoked Muscovy duck with sweet potato and wild rice. Midi's specialties combine sweetly with its live jazz performances. Lunch specials are offered six days a week, with a champagne-jazz brunch on Sundays. Reservations recommended. Lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner daily, champagne jazz brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$

MIKE ANDERSON'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
1 Poydras St. (Riverwalk Marketplace) 522-7727
www.mikeandersons.com
Mike Anderson's furthers its mission of bringing quality seafood to the masses with this Riverwalk location. Try the Quails and Tails, for which two quails are stuffed with crabmeat dressing and served with crawfish etouffee. Mike's Special broils jumbo shrimp in lemon and Worcestershire sauce, and there's boiled and fried seafood of all types. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

MIKE SERIO'S PO-BOYS & DELI
133 St. Charles Ave. 523-2668
Mike Serio's specialties are its namesake po-boys, with more than 50 different varieties to choose from. Shrimp, catfish, smoked turkey and roast beef make up some of the more standard po-boys, but Serio's challenges the standard with Reuben, alligator sausage and Cuban sandwich-style po-boys. Lunch specials vary with grilled chicken, crawfish etouffee and stuffed bell peppers. Delivery available. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $

MOTHER CLUCKER'S
132 Carondelet St. 558-0099
Mother Clucker's cheeky name is reflected in the laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff of this CBD eatery. Chicken is king here, and hungry business professionals choose from wings, chicken tenders, fried and grilled chicken sandwiches, and, just added to the menu, chicken wraps. Try the chicken Caesar or Buffalo chicken wrap, or just ask and almost anything can be rolled into a wrap. Delivery available. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Monday through Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

MOTHER'S
401 Poydras St. 523-9656
www.mothersrestaurant.com
When locals think of Mother's, they think of roast beef po-boys, dripping and delicious. Two items made famous through word-of-mouth are the Famous Ferdi Special, made with Mother's baked black ham with a crisp caramelized crust, roast beef, debris (the beef that falls in the gravy while roasting) and gravy, shredded cabbage, pickles, mayo, and yellow and Creole mustards. The house specialty is Mother's debris roast beef po-boy -- make sure you get at least two handfuls of napkins. Limited delivery available. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

NACHO MAMA'S MEXICAN GRILL
721 Common St. 558-0830
This funky Mexican spot has carved such a niche in the CBD that the owners (who also run Mother Clucker's) have opened up a second location in Uptown. Diners have tough choices among the burritos, nachos, tacos and quesadillas. Friday's happy hour features two-for-one tequila shots. Also consider the garlic-sauteed shrimp or the beer-battered catfish served over Spanish rice. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Thursday and Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

NEW CITY DINER
1340 Poydras St. 561-0061
The New City Diner helps many folks downtown start their day with gourmet coffees, fresh-baked muffins and breakfast burritos. Hot plate lunches range from cornbread and pecan-stuffed pork chops, fried catfish with crawfish sauce, and slow-roasted honey mustard chicken. A favorite of the house is the hot apple crisp for dessert. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Delivery available. Credit cards. $

THE NEW ORLEANS GRILL
300 Gravier St. (Windsor Court Hotel) 522-1992
www.windsorcourthotel.com
The New Orleans Grill, formerly known as The Grill Room, offers newly renovated, luxurious environs for award-winning dining. For dinner, Executive Chef Jonathan Wright suggests the shoulder of rabbit, stuffed and braised in red wine with roasted filet and rib, served with smoked sweet potato, Louisiana peaches and jasmine scented sauce. Vegetarian selections offered. Reservations required. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, brunch and dinner Sunday. Credit cards. $$$

O'HENRY'S FOOD & SPIRITS
301 Baronne St. 522-5242
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

THE PEARL RESTAURANT AND OYSTER BAR
119 St. Charles Ave. 525-2901
The triple-decker turkey sandwich is a favorite gobbled up by patrons of this CBD spot, where the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. Co-workers meet for cocktails and oysters on the half-shell, or dine on grilled shrimp salad, turtle soup, gumbo or etouffee. The turtle cheesecake and the bread pudding are recommended for soothing a dessert craving. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Credit cards. $$

PETE'S PUB
444 St. Charles Ave. (Hotel Inter-Continental) 585-5401
www.new-orleans.intercontinental.com
Pete's can hook you up with a quick sandwich or wrap if you're late for a meeting, but if you have time to linger, settle down with the grilled tuna steak with black beans and pico de gallo, or the grilled chicken and avocado salad. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the cheesecake or cobbler du jour. No reservations. Lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

PHO TAU BAY
1565 Tulane Ave. 524-4669
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

PJ'S COFFEE & TEA
143 Elk Place 585-1775
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

POYDRAS DINER
1555 Poydras St. (Exxon Building) 568-0733
With its claim to "home cooked foods," Poydras Diner grills up 100-percent round chuck burgers and lunch specials, but you can also start your day with classic breakfasts. Eggs, bacon, hotcakes and the like are made to order, and the traditional Monday red beans and rice and Friday seafood platters are popular choices. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $

PURPLE ROSES
1116 Tulane Ave. 566-0950
Central Business District patrons ask for the Vietnamese traditional lunch at Purple Roses, which includes the vermicelli curry bowl with a drink for only $5.45. Also available is the chicken wing special, an order of chicken wings with rice or noodles, the General Tsao Chicken, crawfish fried rice, and chow mein. No reservations. Delivery available in CBD only. Lunch Monday through Friday. Cash only. $

RENE BISTROT
817 Common St. (Renaissance Pere Marquette Hotel) 412-2580
www.renebistrot.com
Chef René Bajeux's newest venture serves his signature French cuisine with the elegance it deserves. The braised rabbit on the bone with basil cream and lemon ricotta gnocchi is not to be missed, and the sauteed sweetbreads with morel mushrooms pack a flavorful punch. Reservations recommended. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$

RESTAURANT AUGUST
301 Tchoupitoulas St. 299-9777
Chef John Besh updates his menu often, and the new dishes this fall at Restaurant August are evidence of his creative combos. The gnocchi crab and truffles appetizer is a new addition, one of many available in a "three-courses for $22 special." One of Besh's mainstays, the Moroccan-spiced duck with a sweet-corn polenta, duck foie gras and tempura-fried dates, is always a good bet. Smoke your favorite cigar in the bar after 9:30 p.m. Reservations required. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$$

RESTAURANT CUVEE
322 Magazine St. 587-9001
www.restaurantcuvee.com
Restaurant Cuvee provides a peaceful and intimate setting very popular with romantic couples. Executive Chef Bob Iacovone recommends the mustard- and herb-crusted salmon filet served over lump crabmeat and Brie orzo with lemon confit. To mention all the highlights would take all day, but the butter-poached lobster refuses to be left out. Reservations recommended. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$$

RICCA'S SANDWICH SHOP
1440 Canal St. (Tidewater Building) 524-2143
This CBD gem has been family-owned and run for more than two decades. Regulars stop in here for some respite from the rat race and a quick traditional breakfast, a hot lunch special, or one of Ricca's special po-boys, most of them named for employees and customers. Try the Dr. Nice po-boy, named for a longtime regular, a radiologist who liked his French bread topped with fried boneless chicken breast, ham and Swiss cheese. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $

ROYAL BLEND COFFEE & TEA HOUSE
222 Carondelet St. 529-2005
www.royalblendcoffee.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

RUE DE LA COURSE
401 Carondelet St. 586-0401
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

SAZERAC BAR & GRILL
123 Baronne St. (Fairmont Hotel) 529-4733
The Sazerac Bar and Grill is a lovely place to have the famous drink over an elegant dinner. Signature dishes include the oyster-artichoke soup, the grilled mahi-mahi, and the succulent bouillabaisse. For dinner, the kitchen offers a chef's special. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch seasonally. Credit cards. $$$

SMITH & WOLLENSKY
1009 Poydras St. 561-0770
www.smithandwollensky.com
All of S&W's beef steaks are dry-aged in-house for 28 days before being cooked to order. Now available is a special Cajun ribeye, which is spiced with garlic, cayenne pepper and olive oil and then marinated in Cajun oil for 72 hours before it is cooked. Another special dish is the shellfish bouquet, which includes lobster cocktail, a whole lobster cut in half, oysters on the half-shell, jumbo lump crabmeat, shrimp cocktail and seasonal items. Reservations recommended. Lunch, dinner, late-night daily. Credit cards. $$$

SPORTING HOUSE CAFE
916 Lafayette St. 561-0605
www.sportinghousecafe.com
The Sporting House Cafe is housed in one of Storyville's famous old bordellos, and obviously enjoys playing up its heritage. Each lunch features a daily special. There's an expansive menu of salads, soups and sandwiches. They are also open during Saints home games. Reservations accepted for parties of six or more. Delivery available. Lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards. $

STARBUCKS COFFEE CO.
300 Canal St. (Canal Place) 566-1223
www.starbucks.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

STEVE'S DINER
828 Gravier St. 522-8198
Formerly the New City Diner, this refurbished eatery attracts plenty of customers with its slogan, "Good food -- nice price." For lunch, sit down to a generous helping of roasted pork loin with homemade chutney and vegetables, or try the grilled chicken spinach salad accented with pecans and blue cheese. No reservations. Delivery available. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

TANDOORI CHICKEN
115 University Place 299-1926
Happy hour at Tandoori Chicken offers an array of tasty treats and libations. To sample the offerings of this Indian restaurant you may want to stop by for the lunch buffet for $8.99. The 16-plus items available encompass a wide range of chicken dishes and vegetables, with the namesake tandoori chicken always available. No reservations. Lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

TOP OF THE DOME STEAKHOUSE
500 Poydras Plaza (Hyatt Regency New Orleans) 599-4826
The rotating restaurant at the top of the Hyatt Regency hotel offers head-spinning entrees such as the Surf 'N' Turf: two lobster tails and an 8-oz. petit filet mignon served with fresh steamed vegetables. One appetizer option is shrimp grilled with barbecue sauce and served with onion rings. Reservations recommended. Dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$$

TUCKER'S TAVERN
635 S. Roman St. 522-0440
www.tuckers-tavern.com
Tucker's bills itself as "Home of the Stuffed Deep-Fried Burger" and features specialties including the Big Tuck: ground beef stuffed with pepper Jack and American cheeses and bacon, then topped with barbecue sauce and cheddar cheese. They also offer both a regular and a Cajun Reuben, as well as a Cuban sandwich. No reservations. Lunch and dinner Monday through Friday, lunch and early dinner Saturday. Credit cards. $

VERANDA RESTAURANT
444 St. Charles Ave. (InterContinental New Orleans) 585-4383
www.new-orleans.intercontinental.com
Help yourself to the lunch buffet or order something more elaborate from the menu, like the braised lamb shanks or the wiener schnitzel, a traditional breaded veal cutlet reflecting Chef Willy Coln's German roots. Tuesday's special, seafood crepes laced with a lobster sherry sauce, is a downtown favorite. Reservations recommended. Breakfast daily, lunch Monday through Friday, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$

ZOE BISTROT
333 Poydras St. (W Hotel) 207-5018
www.zoebistrot.com.
A meal at Zoe is an occasion worth dressing up for, if only to match the beauty on your plate. Try the warm onion tart with seven layers of phyllo topped with caramelized onions and leeks while enjoying the $1 martini that comes with lunch. In the evening, sample the trout amandine, sauteed in brown butter and finished with lump crabmeat. Reservations recommended. Breakfast and dinner daily, lunch Monday through Saturday, brunch Sunday. Credit cards. $$$



CENTRAL CITY

CAFE RECONCILE
1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. 568-1157
www.cafereconcile.com
This St. Regis Hospitality Program runs this cafe to give teenagers and neighbors job training and experience in the service industry. The very affordable daily lunch specials include white beans and shrimp on Thursday and smothered chicken with vegetable rice pilaf on Tuesday. The restaurant's tagline sums it up: "Like eatin' by your mom's." No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

UGLESICH'S
1238 Baronne St. 523-8571
Start off with fried oysters with blue cheese dressing or the creamy oyster brie soup. The shrimp veggie is a popular entree, with shrimp marinated and sauteed with crushed red peppers, hot sauce, onions and bell pepper. No reservations. Lunch Monday through Friday and some Saturdays. Cash only. $$




CHALMETTE

BARRISTER'S PATIO BAR AND GRILL
2120 Pakenham Drive, Chalmette 271-2500
Crack the crisp layer surrounding the catfish McInnis and below the fragrant steam awaits sweet crabmeat and flaky Louisiana catfish, sauced with a crab bordelaise. The McInnis is served with colorful seasonal vegetables and a dinner salad. The patio and large lunch spreads have been attracting locals who enjoy the family-style service. Reservations recommended. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$

CAFE ROMA
3358 Paris Road, Chalmette 270-0999
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

ESPRESSO YOURSELF CUSTOM COFFEE
3604 Delaronde Drive, Chalmette 271-0380
www.espressoyourself.net
This coffeehouse has become a popular local hangout by keeping its patrons entertained with live music, video poker, Internet access and a book swap. The frozen cappuccino is a top choice from the coffee bar, and the menu features tasty quiches, soups, salads and sandwiches. No reservations. Breakfast daily, lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday; pastries and coffees only on Sunday. Credit cards. $

FLOUR POWER CONFECTIONERY & TEA ROOM
2101 Paris Road, Chalmette 276-9095
The main focus here is on European pastries and specialty cakes -- there are 28 cake varieties listed, and custom requests are welcome. There's also a light lunch menu of wraps, salads and sandwiches. Call in advance if you'd like high tea, a real treat with finger sandwiches, scones and pastries. Reservations required for high tea. Continental breakfast Tuesday through Saturday, lunch Tuesday through Friday. Credit cards and checks. $

ITALIAN PIE
1914 E. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette 278-0001
www.italianpierestaurants.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

LUTHER'S
8740 W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette 277-8167
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

PICCADILLY CAFETERIA
3200 Paris Road, Chalmette 271-6860
www.piccadilly.com
See "Citywide" listing for restaurant description.

STIXX RESTAURANT
535 E. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette 276-2742
Contemporary Creole dishes include the chicken Louisiane, a paneed chicken breast served over angel hair pasta with crawfish cream sauce; the menu surprises with sushi rolls and sashimi. Reservations recommended. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $$



CITYWIDE

ACME OYSTER HOUSE
French Quarter, Lakefront, Northshore
www.acmeoyster.com
Shucking oysters since 1910, Acme continues to please its local and tourist clientele. Other New Orleans staples include the Red Beans Poopa (red beans and rice served in a bread bowl), a killer oyster loaf, po-boys, and sumptuous seafood platters. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

APPLEBEE'S
Harahan, Kenner, Metairie, Northshore, Slidell, West Bank
www.applebees.com
Applebee's Neighborhood Bar & Grill kicks off fall with its Take Two promotion, offering your choice of two favorites to create one entree. There are always the much-loved Buffalo chicken wings and delicious sizzling apple pie. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

BAYOU BAGELRY
CBD, Metairie, Uptown
One bite into the hearty yet healthy Rhythm and Blues Roast Beef will have you hooked on the taste of New York-style bagels. The Executive Club is a full-flavored bagel packed with all your favorite ultra-lean cuts of meat and fresh garnishes. With five locations to close from, you are never too far from a fresh bagel with lox and cream cheese. No reservations. Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday at the Gravier Street location, breakfast and lunch daily at all other locations. Credit cards. $

BENNIGAN'S GRILL AND TAVERN
Kenner, Metairie, West Bank
www.bennigans.com
Start any meal between 4 p.m. and closing time with two-for-one drinks at any one the three locations of this popular restaurant. Look for traditional onion rings, beef burgers, baby back ribs and chicken wings. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

BUD'S BROILER
Gentilly, Harahan, Jefferson, Kenner, Metairie, Mid-City, River Ridge, Uptown, West Bank
Bud's does fast food with flair. Broiler Puppies are hot dogs topped with cheddar, chili or hickory-smoked sauce, and the Broiler Burgers come with a similar range of toppings. The smoked sausage sandwich is worth a trip of its own. Finish things off with a milkshake or a fried fruit pie. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Cash only. $

BYBLOS
Metairie, Old Metairie, Uptown
Warm pita bread, rich creamy chick pea hummus and salty olives invoke a touch of the Middle East. The menu showcases regional specialties such as tabbouleh, chicken shawarma and lamb kebabs in each one of their three locations. Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

CAFE DU MONDE
CBD, French Quarter, Kenner, Metairie, West Bank
www.cafedumonde.com
The menu is short and sweet, like the mountains of powdered sugar piled high atop each golden beignet. Each cafe au lait is surrounded with a perfume-like fog that can only be the heavenly scent of fluffy sweet batter frying. Customers wipe their faces clean of sugar moustaches and sip chicory coffee, orange juice, milk and cafe au lait (served hot or cold). No reservations. Hours vary by location. Decatur Street location open 24 hours. Cash only. $

CAFE ROMA
Chalmette, French Quarter, Metairie, Mid-City, Uptown, West Bank
The ovens burn hot at every Cafe Roma and bring steaming pizzas, pastas and Italian appetizers to your table or doorstep. The menu offers specialty pies for vegetarians and omnivores alike. The shrimp pasta combines sauteed shrimp and angel hair pasta with a creamy Italian sauce. Reservations accepted. Credit cards. $$

CC'S COFFEE
Bayou St. John, Carrollton, CBD, French Quarter, Kenner, Metairie, Northshore, Old Metairie, Uptown
www.ccscoffee.com
Whether you're looking for a morning perk or a leisurely cup in the afternoon, CC's has a wide selection of specialty coffees and teas. Assuage your hunger pangs with a bagel, muffin, croissant or other pastry. The Poydras Center location offers a light lunch menu. No reservations. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $

CHATEAU COFFEE CAFE
Kenner, Lakeview, Metairie
This cafe goes beyond the expected fare of coffee drinks and pastries, with fresh salads and daily hot lunch specials like grilled fish, burgers, soups, and red beans and rice. Chateau Coffee features a Southwestern chicken salad, prepared with salsa, corn, black beans, tortilla chips and ranch dressing. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards and checks. $

CHEVY'S FRESH MEX
Kenner, Metairie, West Bank
www.chevysfreshmex.com
Chevy's has become a family favorite for its fresh ideas, like salsa mixed hourly to keep the flavors at their peak. The fish tacos get their authentic tang from the flame-grilled fish, sweet corn tomalito, rice, and beans inside. The fajitas and margaritas are two more reasons to get happy. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

COPELAND'S
Jefferson, Metairie, Northshore, Uptown, West Bank
This chain offers Creole dishes for the adults, a kids' menu for youngsters, and fried chicken for everyone. Try the eggplant pirogue, where fried eggplant slices are served au gratin with shrimp and crab claws over angel hair pasta. Reservations recommended. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $$

CUCO'S
Metairie, Northshore, Uptown, West Bank
While the menu varies slightly by location, you can always count on Cuco's for Mexican and Southwestern favorites such as the sizzling fajita plates and the Mexi-Cali combo: a chicken breast stuffed with spinach served over rice with two enchiladas and special spicy sauce. Fresh seafood dishes and margaritas round out the menu. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

DANNY AND CLYDE'S
Jefferson, Metairie, Northshore, West Bank
www.dannyandclydes.com
Diner food on demand is the order of business at Danny and Clyde's many locations. They're open early and late so you won't be deprived of your favorite morning sandwiches, egg breakfasts, po-boys, chicken tenders and hamburgers. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night daily; some locations open 24 hours. $

DOT'S DINER
Harahan, Jefferson, Metairie, River Ridge
Dot's is as pleasant at 7 a.m., when you might stop in for a 6-oz. breakfast ham steak, as it is at midnight, when night owls come by for a burger or slice of pie. Dieters should try the Heart Healthy Omelet with six egg whites, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes and Swiss cheese. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner until 10 p.m. daily at the 4150 Jefferson Hwy. location, open 24 hours at other locations. Cash only. $

GROUND PAT'I
Kenner, Metairie, Northshore, West Bank
www.groundpati.com
The hamburgers are the signature dish, but seafood, steak, chicken, salads and barbecue round out the rich field of choices. Among the fried or grilled seafood dishes is the grilled shrimp entree, a half-pound of shrimp marinated, skewered and grilled, with a salad and choice of side. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

HAAGEN-DAZS
Carrollton, CBD, French Quarter
This fall, Haagen-Dazs invites you to try its special bananas Foster, an original New Orleans dessert. Try the Mint Dazzler, three layers of mint chip ice cream with hot fudge, Oreo cookies and whipped cream with sprinkles. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Cash only at St. Peter Street locations, checks accepted at Hampson Street location, and credit cards accepted at Riverwalk. $

HOOTERS
French Quarter, Metairie, West Bank
www.hooters.com
Now that football season's here, area Hooters will be filling with fans who flock to the sports-bar chain for "nearly famous" chicken wings and other popular munchies, after-work happy hours on the weekdays, and, of course, Hooters girls. Reservations for large parties only. Lunch and dinner daily, late-night Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $

ITALIAN PIE
CBD, Chalmette, Eastern New Orleans, Jefferson, Kenner, Lakefront, Metairie, Mid-City, Northshore, Uptown, West Bank
www.italianpierestaurants.com
There's more to Italian Pie than just Italian pies -- even though the pizzas here are among the most popular choices (order a gourmet pie or create your own). Other items such as fresh salads, hearty appetizers, new lavash wraps, calzones, pasta dishes and sandwiches round out a menu that aims to please everybody. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Delivery available. Credit cards. $

LA MADELEINE
Carrollton, French Quarter, Harahan, Northshore, Metairie, Uptown
www.lamadeleine.com
Discover the tastes of the French countryside at La Madeleine, whose baked goods range from the straightforward baguette to pastries such as tiramisu, raspberry creme brulee and coconut flan. Soups include the ever-popular French onion, and there are plentiful salads, sandwiches, pastas and pizzas as well. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

LEE'S HAMBURGERS
Kenner, Metairie, West Bank
Lee's is a New Orleans institution and a burger lover's dream. But the burgers are not all that people rave about; Lee's also has hot dogs, chili cheese fries, shakes and onion rings. The Schuef Drive and Airline Drive locations serve plate lunch specials such as grilled chicken, fried shrimp and hamburger steak. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Methods of payment vary by location. $

LONE STAR STEAKHOUSE
Kenner, Metairie, Northshore
www.lonestarsteakhouse.com
The name is pure Texas, but the menu at Lone Star is all American. Try one of the Lone Star combo meals, a 6-oz. filet served with ribs, chicken, shrimp or salmon. Each comes with a salad and side dish. Then cap it all off with one of Lone Star's new dessert offerings: New York cheesecake or three-layer chocolate cake. Reservations accepted. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

LOUISIANA PIZZA KITCHEN
Carrollton, French Quarter, West Bank
The reputation of this local franchise is based as much on its changing menu of daily specials as it is on its selection of 20 wood-fired pizzas, which includes roasted garlic and barbecue chicken versions. Case in point: crawfish Florentine made with shiitake and portobello mushrooms, tasso, and fresh spinach in a spicy cream sauce served over fettuccine. The French Market location has a wine bar that offers many of its wines by the half glass, and the Carrollton location serves its own fresh-baked breads daily. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

LUTHER'S
Chalmette, Metairie, West Bank
www.luthers.com
The surroundings at Luther's are simple and straightforward and so is the menu, which sticks to tried-and-true, finger lickin' favorites. Slow-smoked, tender ribs are the main attraction for customers who are well advised to bring their appetite and roll up their sleeves when digging in. Indigenous seafood like catfish and shrimp round out the menu. On-site catering also is offered. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

MONA'S CAFE
Faubourg Marigny, Mid-City, Uptown
Mona's is synonymous to most locals with tasty, affordable Middle Eastern food. The classic cuisine includes gyros with lamb, beef or chicken; tabbouleh, a parsley salad popular with vegetarians; hummus; baba ghanoush; falafel; and stuffed grape leaves. To finish it all off, try a mint tea with the burma, a honey-sweetened shredded wheat dessert. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

NEW ORLEANS HAMBURGER AND SEAFOOD CO.
Jefferson, Metairie
www.nohsc.com
Where else it is possible to get fried seafood, po-boys and loaded baked potatoes via a drive-through window except in New Orleans? New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood has provided affordable hamburgers and platters of softshell crabs hot to order on the go for years. Favorites include the fried shrimp, oyster or catfish platters with fries or potato, dressed the way you like it. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

O'HENRY'S FOOD & SPIRITS
Carrollton, CBD, Metairie, Northshore, West Bank
Specials include potato skins and quesadillas for appetizers and a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, pasta and steak entrees. Local flavors are represented by the crawfish Monica pasta, penne pasta with crawfish and "Monica" Alfredo sauce, and the gigantic 64-oz. Mardi Gras Mambo drink, big enough to share with two straws. No reservations. Hours vary by location. Credit cards $

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE
Metairie, Northshore, West Bank
www.outback.com
The menu is designed to give hungry diners a G'day, with beef offerings that include the Outback Special, a 12-oz. center-cut seasoned sirloin seared to taste and served with either Walkabout soup or a salad and a choice of steamed fresh vegetables or a potato dish. Hard to turn down is the Chocolate Thunder, a large brownie topped with ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate syrup. No reservations. Dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

PHO TAU BAY
CBD, Metairie, West Bank
Mid-City residents let out whoops of delight upon the news that Pho Tau Bay is planning to bring its affordable and tasty Vietnamese cuisine to North Carrollton Avenue starting in December. Staples include the bun thit nuong, charcoal-broiled sliced pork served over a bed of vermicelli with cucumbers, spearmint, bean sprouts, crispy lettuce and peanuts. No reservations. The West Bank location serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; the Tulane Avenue location serves breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday; and the Metairie location serves lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. Credit cards. $

PICCADILLY CAFETERIA
Carrollton, Chalmette, Eastern New Orleans, Jefferson, Metairie, Northshore, West Bank
www.piccadilly.com
Piccadilly simplifies lunch by offering everything: vegetables, meats, seafood, pastas, breads, soups, salads. Try the $5 lunch special weekdays where you can choose from a variety of entrees. Get your meals and dessert to go, and check out seasonal, holiday fare like turkey with all the trimmings. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards, checks. $

PJ'S COFFEE & TEA
Carrollton, CBD, Kenner, Lakeview, Metairie, Mid-City, Northshore, Old Metairie, River Ridge, Uptown, Warehouse District, West Bank
www.pjscoffee.com
The large number of PJ's franchises scattered across the area speak to the popularity of its coffee, tea and food offerings. Some locations offer a variety of salads and sandwiches. Muffins, pastries, bagels and cakes are available at all. No reservations. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $

REGINELLI'S PIZZERIA
Jefferson, Lakeview, Uptown
www.reginellis.com
Reginelli's serves up a wide range of pizzas with different international flavors, as well as salads and appetizers. The house recommends the Brie calzone with sun-dried pear chutney in a puff pastry. The sunny-flavored Mediterranean pizza comes loaded with garlic herb sauce, roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, fresh spinach and roasted red peppers. No reservations. Free delivery available. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

ROYAL BLEND COFFEE & TEA HOUSE
CBD, French Quarter, Old Metairie
www.royalblendcoffee.com
The Royal Blend cafes are a destination any time of the day for coffee, tea, pastries and quick snacks. But at lunchtime, the fast-moving lines are perfect for people on the go. Order soups, salads, and sandwiches. Or try one of the wraps that Royal Blend offers as daily specials -- the two top sellers are toasted-almond chicken and the chicken with portobello mushrooms. Delivery available until 3 p.m. from the Carondelet Street location only. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, late-night Friday and Saturday, brunch Sunday at the Metairie location only. $

RUE DE LA COURSE
Carrollton, CBD, French Quarter, Uptown
The Rue has all the espresso drinks you need, whether you're cramming for a test or gathering energy for a long day. The frozen granita and a chai shake with vanilla ice cream are sweet concoctions, and fresh-made sandwiches and pastries are available at most locations. No reservations. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night daily (CBD location open until 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 2 p.m. Saturdays and closed Sundays). Cash only. $

SEMOLINA
Kenner, Lakeview, Metairie, Northshore, Uptown, West Bank
www.semolina.com
Semolina is so much more than just pasta, with dishes from the Louisiana bayou to Latin America, from the Southwest to Italy and more. Thai curry shrimp, pad Thai and pasta jambalaya are perennial favorites, and the daily specials include a double-cheeseburger pasta on Wednesdays. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

STARBUCKS COFFEE CO.
Carrollton, CBD, Jefferson, Kenner, Metairie, Northshore, Uptown
www.starbucks.com
The many choices offered at area Starbucks transcend those of a simple coffee shop. There are plenty of snacks, both healthy and sweet, to go with your java. New winter drinks include Frappuccinos, some coffee-based, some "creams" (i.e., caffeine free). Hours vary by location. Credit cards and checks. $

SUN RAY GRILL
Metairie, Warehouse District, West Bank
www.sunraygrill.com
Chefs at each location are encouraged to explore their own style by the Sun Ray owner, so you never know what you'll find in the "chalkboard specials" from the kitchen. Some examples: Chinese spiced duck, sesame-crusted Tokyo tuna, and Baja skillets (warm tortillas and grilled peppers and onions with chicken, steak, tuna, crawfish, shrimp or a combination of any or all). Reservations recommended. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

TAQUERIA CORONA
Harahan, Metairie, Uptown, Warehouse District
Of course you know about Taqueria Corona's renowned combo platters, Numero Uno, Dos and Tres. The Tres boasts portions of tacos, flauta, burrito and a house salad practically big enough to feed the whole family. But now you can also try Taqueria's grilled mahi-mahi fillet, served on a bed of baby spring lettuce with vinaigrette and accompanied by corn salsa, aioli and yellow rice. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily; no lunch on Sundays except Magazine Street location. Credit cards. $

VINCENT'S
Metairie, Northshore, Uptown
Vincent's Old World tastes are found in signature dishes such as veal Roberto, which features baby white veal topped with jumbo lump crabmeat, all under a sherry beurre blanc. Other favorites include a corn and crab bisque served in a bread bowl, and crab cakes combining jumbo lump crabmeat under two sauces, a portobello mushroom beurre blanc and roasted red pepper aioli. Reservations accepted; recommended for large parties and on weekends in Mandeville. Lunch Tuesday through Friday and dinner daily Uptown; lunch Tuesday through Friday and dinner Monday through Saturday in Metairie; lunch Tuesday through Friday and Sunday, dinner Tuesday through Sunday in Mandeville. Credit cards. $$

VOODOO BBQ
Lakefront, Metairie, Uptown
Get your mojo working with classic barbecue staples, all seasoned with a dry rub. There's pulled pork, beef brisket and pork ribs, to name a few favorites, plus savory sides such as baked beans or corn pudding. On Monday, stop by the bar for the 25-cent hot-wing special. No reservations. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

WOW CAFE & EATERY
Metairie, Northshore
www.wingery.com
Yeah, a "World of Wings" would