Antoine's Restaurant

It's sometimes hard to admit when tradition has over taken the importance of good food and service, but New Orleans will do that to you. Once again we made our yearly trip to the restaurant/museum that is Antoine's. Established in 1840, Antoine's is the country's oldest family-run restaurant. It was badly damaged during Hurricane Katrina, but after a rocky rebuilding the dining room looks as nice as ever. There are over 15 rooms you can dine in, but it is my firm belief that if you are not an old New Orleans family you just get stuck in the main dining room with all the other tourists. The food can be great, but it can also sometimes taste like you are at a very expensive cafeteria. I would recommend going with the classics: Crevettes remoulade (Boiled Louisiana shrimp served cold in Antoine's unique remoulade dressing) as an appetizer, Filet de truite Pontchartrain (Grilled trout with lump crabmeat sautéed in butter) as an entree; and Omelette Alaska Antoine (Antoine's very special presentation of Baked Alaska for two) for dessert. The Sunday "Jazz" brunch is a great alternative if you do not want to invest in a three to four hour dinner, and keep you eye out for the fixed price menu offerings. Antoine's is very expensive, so dress nicely and don't forget your American Express card.

Antoine's Restaurant

713 Rue Saint Louis

New Orleans, Louisiana 70130

(504) 581-4422

www.antoines.com