Favorite restaurants

[funkkjunkie]

I always choose music activities instead of a sitdown restaurant meal. But if you could choose one sit down meal while in new orleans, besides the picnic tables at the fairgrounds, where would it be?

[Corona]

I always choose music activities instead of a sitdown restaurant meal. But if you could choose one sit down meal while in new orleans, besides the picnic tables at the fairgrounds, where would it be?
Port of Call....hands down. Mushroom cheeseburger, loaded potato and a Monsoon :)

[Goose]

Brigtsen's!

[rosetree]

Brigtsen's!
Couldn't agree more Goose!
Don't forget, we have a Brigsten's gift certificate in the Raffle...

[funkkjunkie]

One year juana and I did the new orleans soul food tour during jazzfest. We hit Cafe Reconcile, Praline Connection(the location that is now the new Howling Wolf), Big Shirleys on Esplanade(I think it's lil Dizzys now) and a couple more I can't recall. Now I want to try some of the nicer restaurants in nola but there's only time for one this jazzfest. Right now I have rezzies at GWFins. I've always wanted to try brigtsens and galatoire's too, goose. And sorry, corona, although the Port of Call burgers and taters are awesome, PoC would never be my first choice when visiting our favorite city. Give me some seafood, please!

[frangooch]

Another for Brigtsen's! 4/27, 8pm. Two tables for 5, please!

[rosetree]

Another for Brigtsen's! 4/27, 8pm. Two tables for 5, please!

Frank: Tell Marna you are a Threadhead and thanks for helping with the raffle.(FWIW, you can tell her you know Mark from Rosetree)

[rosetree]

That reminds me .....gotta make my Fest rezzies for Brigsten's for when Grandma Rosetree comes down.....;)

[glinda]

oooh, just ONE great meal??? Impossible to choose!

Guess it'd be ...
Bayona
Muriels
Irene's
or maybe Commander's but then I've always wanted to try
Brigstens and Upperline

My group always does one nice restaurant meal to kick off JF. Not sure yet where that will be this year.

[UncleFester]

just one? last year we decided to go for a finer dining experience and i have to say restaurant august has to be one of the best i've had anywhere.

[mboard]

Hands down, gotta be K-Pauls! The very best.

[funkkjunkie]

So has anyone here tried gwfins? No one has listed it so far.

[NYMAMA]

Bananas Foster at Arnauds!

[Turbodog]

My favorite restaurant in the area is Brigtsen's. I also really like K-Paul. Muriel's and GW Fin's are also both very nice. I also reccomend Pelican Club, Bayona and NOLA.

There are plenty of other great places, but that's my top baker's dozen.

Of course, Cuvee, August and Stella are as good or better than any on my list. And I haven't even mentioned Commander's, Delmonico, Emeril's, Ralph's, Dakota, Rio Mar, Antoine's, Arnaud's or the Rib Room (I know I am leaving off a bunch of great ones, but I think I have made my point). What a (food) city!!!!

[mightyradgumbo]

My favorite restaurant in the area is Brigtsen's. I also really like K-Paul. Muriel's and GW Fin's are also both very nice. I also reccomend Pelican Club, Bayona and NOLA.

There are plenty of other great places, but that's my top baker's dozen.

Of course, Cuvee, August and Stella are as good or better than any on my list. And I haven't even mentioned Commander's, Delmonico, Emeril's, Ralph's, Dakota, Rio Mar, Antoine's, Arnaud's or the Rib Room (I know I am leaving off a bunch of great ones, but I think I have made my point). What a (food) city!!!!

yeah, what Turbodog said LOL I know it is not a sitdown restaurant but there is something to be said about a muffalata from Central, a bag of zapps a cold beer on a warm sunny day in April chillin in the French Market or Jackson Square.
I am also a fan of Jacques-imo's for some cajun and creole chowdown

[Corona]

One year juana and I did the new orleans soul food tour during jazzfest. We hit Cafe Reconcile, Praline Connection(the location that is now the new Howling Wolf), Big Shirleys on Esplanade(I think it's lil Dizzys now) and a couple more I can't recall. Now I want to try some of the nicer restaurants in nola but there's only time for one this jazzfest. Right now I have rezzies at GWFins. I've always wanted to try brigtsens and galatoire's too, goose. And sorry, corona, although the Port of Call burgers and taters are awesome, PoC would never be my first choice when visiting our favorite city. Give me some seafood, please!
But ya said just one meal....if I could only pick one....it would be PoC. For me the bonus meals are at Jacques-Imo's, Bacco, Nola etc. I truly love all those but I would never head to them first though.

Besides, all the good seafood dishes are at fest....ya can't get the burger/potato combo like that anywhere else then PofC. So...that's my reasoning lol!

[where yat brah]

Mmmm, which NO restaurant would I choose for a meal.....kinda like pick my favorite "pet of the month" for a 3 hour session. Not going to try, cause I'll never have to.

[ohio]

My favorite restaurant in the area is Brigtsen's. I also really like K-Paul. Muriel's and GW Fin's are also both very nice. I also reccomend Pelican Club, Bayona and NOLA.

There are plenty of other great places, but that's my top baker's dozen.

Of course, Cuvee, August and Stella are as good or better than any on my list. And I haven't even mentioned Commander's, Delmonico, Emeril's, Ralph's, Dakota, Rio Mar, Antoine's, Arnaud's or the Rib Room (I know I am leaving off a bunch of great ones, but I think I have made my point). What a (food) city!!!!Mmmmmmmmm, Pelican Club. Haven't been there since the 90's. Time to return! One of the best meeals I've ever had in the city. We already have rezzies for Nola's after the Rosetree open house.

[mangoon]

Have to go with the GumBo Shop. Usally go the twice a trip and have never had anything less than a great meal.
Burger at Port O Call a very close second.

[funkkjunkie]

I know how you feel about PoC, lis. And i'll happily go there if my group wants to go there but seafood and soul food are "my thing" while in New Orleans. Ending up at la peniche last saturday was a good thing for me. Got to have a coonass breakfast with chicken livers and gravy!

[rosetree]

KK...have you had the fried livers at Praline Connection???? One of my faves!!!

[ohio]

I know how you feel about PoC, lis. And i'll happily go there if my group wants to go there but seafood and soul food are "my thing" while in New Orleans. Ending up at la peniche last saturday was a good thing for me. Got to have a coonass breakfast with chicken livers and gravy!I agree,Vic. It's a good place to get a burger, but it's a burger. Gimme some swamp food!!

[ibjamn]

That breakfast was awesome! I wish I had it now. :)

[ibjamn]

KK...have you had the fried livers at Praline Connection???? One of my faves!!!

I love the chicken livers w/pepper jelly at Praline Connection but this breakfast was chicken livers, fried crispy w/ brown gravy, home fries, 2 eggs and a biscuit. (and 3 bloody marys, I believe ;) )

[NOLA]

I can't name just one. But I can narrow it down by neighborhood...

Quarter - Bayona
Warehouse District - Tommy's
River Bend - Brigtsen's
Garden District - Commander's Palace
CBD - August
Fairgrounds - Cafe' Degas
City Park/Mid City - Ralph's

[rosetree]

I love the chicken livers w/pepper jelly at Praline Connection but this breakfast was chicken livers, fried crispy w/ brown gravy, home fries, 2 eggs and a biscuit. (and 3 bloody marys, I believe ;) )
mmmm, mmmm...I'd take that too!!!! :D w/o the mary's

[Staxsun]

Takee Outee. Nope, wait, they're not there anymore. Guess I'll have to have a Lucky Dog. Seriously, asking for my favorite N.O. restaurant is like asking for my favorite grain of sand!

[Freakwinox]

Quartermaster (just kidding)

[ibjamn]

Quartermaster (just kidding)

Nothing wrong with the Nellie Deli, especially late at night! :)

[Zydekitten]

I'd have to say (in order of preference):


Bayona
Camillia Grill
Acme Oyster House
Clover Grill
Praline Connection
Tujaque's

[ibjamn]

My Faves:

1. Blue Plate (will reopen in April)
2. La Peniche
3. Rocky & Carlo's
4. Both Liuzza's
5. Mandina's
6. POC

[funkkjunkie]

Yep, rosetree, love the praline connection livers. Was it brigtsens that you said you loved so much on another thread?
I also love Bon Ton Cafe on Magazine, just a block behind the Sheraton, the oldest creole cafe in nola.

[glinda]

Will definitely be hitting port o call at some point, it's only half a block from our B&B and those burgers hit the spot!

We were thinking of doing Upperline this year for our one fancy eatin dinner. Any 'pinions on that????

[ibjamn]

Yep, rosetree, love the praline connection livers. Was it brigtsens that you said you loved so much on another thread?
I also love Bon Ton Cafe on Magazine, just a block behind the Sheraton, the oldest creole cafe in nola.

ooooohhhh.....crabmeat au gratin! ummm....

[pokerchick66]

Takee Outee. Nope, wait, they're not there anymore. Guess I'll have to have a Lucky Dog. Seriously, asking for my favorite N.O. restaurant is like asking for my favorite grain of sand!

lmao, I remember the Takee Outee.

[funkkjunkie]

THAT"S what i'm talking about, ibjamn. Nobody does that dish like BonTon.

[pokerchick66]

Alex Patout's in the Quarter was a memorable dining experience for me. The service was OUTSTANDING (they anticipated my every request) and the Cajun Roast Duck just fell of the bone and melted in my mouth. The gravy was heavenly.

[rosetree]

Yep, rosetree, love the praline connection livers. Was it brigtsens that you said you loved so much on another thread?
I also love Bon Ton Cafe on Magazine, just a block behind the Sheraton, the oldest creole cafe in nola.

Yup KK, Brigsten's can go up against anyone!!!!
PC, Their duck is to die for!!! mmmmm, yummmy ;)

[Corona]

I love the chicken livers w/pepper jelly at Praline Connection but this breakfast was chicken livers, fried crispy w/ brown gravy, home fries, 2 eggs and a biscuit. (and 3 bloody marys, I believe ;) )
you guys are killin' me...lol
I barfed at the Praline connection when the chicken livers were served :(

[saturn]

you guys are killin' me...lol
I barfed at the Praline connection when the chicken livers were served :(

Well, I probably wouldn't actually barf when they were served -- unless they were being served to me. NO WAY on liver! :(

[Mardigrasbaby35]

RE GW fins - its not bad, but there are so many better places that are listed on this thread....

Another to add, its a little more "local" - La Petit Grocery on Magazine....

There is also a nice relatively new place in the CBD, "Anatole" that's owned by some real nice people from Grand Isle (i believe) ... also, "Restaurant One" (uptown, near the riverbend) which opened Post-K and Jackson on Magazine - some of my newer favorites......

[funkkjunkie]

We're at chateau lemoyne so I thought it would be fun to walk to a nearby restaurant after a day of hangiing out in the quarter and doing instores instead of having to drive somewhere. When I saw GWfins was a block away, it seemed like serendipity. But there are others that are close. anyone know anything about deja vu? It's open 24/7 and is a block down from the hotle. NOT for the big meal out, LOL, just wondering about it.

[mangoon]

We're at chateau lemoyne so I thought it would be fun to walk to a nearby restaurant after a day of hangiing out in the quarter and doing instores instead of having to drive somewhere. When I saw GWfins was a block away, it seemed like serendipity. But there are others that are close. anyone know anything about deja vu? It's open 24/7 and is a block down from the hotle. NOT for the big meal out, LOL, just wondering about it.

Awsome burger and cheese fries at 4am in the morning lol . It looks like a real dive but the food is good bar food.The kitchen was closed at night a number of times last year due to staffing though, so I dont know if that has changed.

[ohio]

Takee Outee. Nope, wait, they're not there anymore. Guess I'll have to have a Lucky Dog. Seriously, asking for my favorite N.O. restaurant is like asking for my favorite grain of sand!
Oh man, Takee Outee! There's some (not so great) memories. I do remember stepping in a pothole and jabbing one of those damn skewers into the roof of my mouth, ouch! Remember the plaster food samples in the window...?

[ohio]

Nothing wrong with the Nellie Deli, especially late at night! :)No doubt! A late night savior. They deliver to quarter hotels too!!!

[mightyradgumbo]

I am with the canajuns as far as the liver-no liver for da Gumbo. Mom and Dad used to love it though

[mightyradgumbo]

lmao, I remember the Takee Outee.

I do as well and LOVE Lucky Dog. hey chipchopchick, did you get a chance to do Rocky and Carlo's.

[Corona]

well, I was pretty messed up that morning.....started dinkin' again early and got drunk sooooooo fast on Ibjamn's killer bloodies. Can't quite remember what trip but I think it was Mardi Gras last year. I wasn't feeling too good when we got to the restaurant and when those chicken livers were served....that's all it took:eek: I ate a plate of plain french bread for lunch that day lol!

[Mardigrasbaby35]

We're at chateau lemoyne so I thought it would be fun to walk to a nearby restaurant after a day of hangiing out in the quarter and doing instores instead of having to drive somewhere. When I saw GWfins was a block away, it seemed like serendipity. But there are others that are close. anyone know anything about deja vu? It's open 24/7 and is a block down from the hotle. NOT for the big meal out, LOL, just wondering about it.

funkkjunkie - since you're in the quarter, you're in a good "walking distance" location - Bayona is within walking distance .... let me think about it and i'll post some more alternatives a little later....

[joe-z]

Will definitely be hitting port o call at some point, it's only half a block from our B&B and those burgers hit the spot!

We were thinking of doing Upperline this year for our one fancy eatin dinner. Any 'pinions on that????

Glinda, Upperline is so good and the walls are really loaded with original NO artwork. The tasting menu is very good and they do duck as well as anyone, including Brigtsen's. It's a unique place. On the pricey side but not deadly--kind of in line with Brigtsen's actually. I loved it and highly recommend it.

[glinda]

Thanks for the review, joe-z. Sounds good!

[mangoon]

Hey Funky, these are all within a 5 or 6 block walk of the LeMoyne. Nothing fancy but good eats.

Petunias-817 St.Louis-Incredible breakfast
Coffee Pot -714 St.Peters
Gumbo Shop-630 St .Peters
Court of two sisters-613 Royal- buffet brunch
Bourbon House-144 Bourbon- Ate there for 1st time last year and seafood was great.

[Mardigrasbaby35]

Thanks for the review, joe-z. Sounds good!

Glinda - if you're interested in the Upperline (and for all of you who love the Upperline) you need to try Dick & Jenny's - its on the corner of Jena & Tchopatolous, not too far away - it was opened about 7 years ago by one of the former chefs of the Upperline, the food is fabolous, very New Orleans, and the prices are a little lower than the Upperline, also its a bit of a "funkier" atmosphere - one warning, they don't take reservations, but they do have a nice little covered patio/bar area......definitley worth a try.

[funkkjunkie]

Hey mangoon. I did a search of the area and found bayona and acme and menas to be close too. Looks like a great location.

[Corona]

Hey mangoon. I did a search of the area and found bayona and acme and menas to be close too. Looks like a great location.
We're real close to La Peniche, Port of Call and Buffa's. Anyone been to Buffa's? Anywhere else you can recommend walking distance on or near Frenchmen and Burgundy?

[Mardigrasbaby35]

We're real close to La Peniche, Port of Call and Buffa's. Anyone been to Buffa's? Anywhere else you can recommend walking distance on or near Frenchmen and Burgundy?

Corona - have you ever tried Santa Fe? They have been opened for a pretty long time, new owners post-k, but still awesome - its mexican food with KILLER margharitas (ever "stupid" thing that i've done at 3:00 am can always be tracked back to lunch and Margahritas at Sante Fe 12 hours earlier:o )

[ibjamn]

I shoulda put Santa Fe on my list, one of my favorites!!

[NOLA]

Tried to go there but Santa Fe wasn't open on Fat Tuesday :( so I haven't been since K. but as MGB says, the Margaritas are killer. Be careful if you have more than 3 (2 if you are a lightweight!). I can't say that EVERY stupid thing I've done can be traced back to there, but quite a few incidents can. IBJ, is it still as good as pre-K? I think I had heard they cut back some on the California influence (i.e. nuts and raisins on everything - I always had to say "hold the trail mix" when ordering before) but haven't been there to confirm.

Corona - re. Buffa's, I've had (cheap) beers there but have not sampled the food.

I second MGB's recommendation re. Bayona - it would be a fine choice and most likely a memorable meal. I still remember my first experience there from the early '90's.

[NOLA]

We're real close to La Peniche, Port of Call and Buffa's. Anyone been to Buffa's? Anywhere else you can recommend walking distance on or near Frenchmen and Burgundy?

Corona, if you like middle eastern food, the Mona's Cafe on Frenchmen is hard to beat. There used to be a place on the corner of Frenchmen and Esplanade called Marisol, but I don't think it came back after K. But my real favorite in that area is Adolfo's which is located above the Apple Barrel bar on Frenchmen. Just a tiny little place but outstanding Creole-Italian food IMHO. In fact, if you go there, let me know and I'll join you! :)

[Moon]

Several years ago, I got up to go to Fest and pinched a nerve in my lower back. Medication made walking around bearable. Getting upright from sitting or laying down was a new adventure in pain. As a result, I took most of my meals standing up. That was when the Acme became my favorite place to eat. By day 3, I would walk in the door, nod at my waitress Nadine, and she would bring a Dixie and a dozen to my sideboard along the wall.

[Jacquesimomo]

How about Dante's Kitchen? We had a fabulous time there last year when we and some of the Gumbohead guys were treated to a flying saucer dinner... truly a great way to sample all they had and they took great care of us; great food, good prices, great service. our waiter even called Andy (bass player from Gumbohead) who had decided not to join us to let him know what he was serving that night. It was a blast!

[Mardigrasbaby35]

How about Dante's Kitchen? We had a fabulous time there last year when we and some of the Gumbohead guys were treated to a flying saucer dinner... truly a great way to sample all they had and they took great care of us; great food, good prices, great service. our waiter even called Andy (bass player from Gumbohead) who had decided not to join us to let him know what he was serving that night. It was a blast!
Dante's Kitchen is AWESOME, and they have a great outside patio - also, in that same area is Mat&Naddies which also has a great outside patio and fabolous grilled (outside, open air bbq) oysters....

[glinda]

Thanks MGB for the Dick & Jennys tip.

Where is Dante's?

[mamaroux]

I always choose music activities instead of a sitdown restaurant meal. But if you could choose one sit down meal while in new orleans, besides the picnic tables at the fairgrounds, where would it be?

This is an impossible question to answer... we get take out lots of time so we can eat on the run and have left overs, usually from Cooter Browns or one of the local uptown pizza places. I love the College Inn, Martinique Bistro, Nardo's, Pascal's Manale (mmm bbq oysters), Frankie and Johnnys, Casemento's, Dick and Jenny's, Jacque Imo's... but Commanders, I guess that would take the cake. I'm looking forward to going to the Flaming Tourch on Octavia this time around and La Crepe Nanou, as well as finally trying Vizards.

[ibjamn]

Tried to go there but Santa Fe wasn't open on Fat Tuesday :( so I haven't been since K. but as MGB says, the Margaritas are killer. Be careful if you have more than 3 (2 if you are a lightweight!). I can't say that EVERY stupid thing I've done can be traced back to there, but quite a few incidents can. IBJ, is it still as good as pre-K? I think I had heard they cut back some on the California influence (i.e. nuts and raisins on everything - I always had to say "hold the trail mix" when ordering before) but haven't been there to confirm.

Corona - re. Buffa's, I've had (cheap) beers there but have not sampled the food.

I second MGB's recommendation re. Bayona - it would be a fine choice and most likely a memorable meal. I still remember my first experience there from the early '90's.


I think SF is better than before, we've been there 3 times post-thing,

[mamaroux]

I can't name just one. But I can narrow it down by neighborhood...

Quarter - Bayona
Warehouse District - Tommy's
River Bend - Brigtsen's
Garden District - Commander's Palace
CBD - August
Fairgrounds - Cafe' Degas
City Park/Mid City - Ralph's

I wanted to try Ralph's last time I was in town, but didn't get to... tell me about it, pls. It looked so nice from the website... worth trying to get ressies there?

[ibjamn]

Corona, if you like middle eastern food, the Mona's Cafe on Frenchmen is hard to beat. There used to be a place on the corner of Frenchmen and Esplanade called Marisol, but I don't think it came back after K. But my real favorite in that area is Adolfo's which is located above the Apple Barrel bar on Frenchmen. Just a tiny little place but outstanding Creole-Italian food IMHO. In fact, if you go there, let me know and I'll join you! :)


Marisol is gone forever :(, but Janice & Chef Pete Vasquez (of Marisol) are over at Bacchanal on Sunday evening, cooking up sepcial menus each week.

[Orleansnj]

IBJAMN that is some great information - thanks !!!

[mamaroux]

What about Breakfast places? Besides the Coffee Pot...We did the Sunday Jazz Brunch at Antoines last year, which was very nice, but we like to go out for breakfast during the week... suggestions?

[Orleansnj]

The Bluebird is good, Cafe Atchafalaya (with it's weird schedule) and Elizabeth's in Bywater are some of my faves....

[rosetree]

Camillia Grill is opening soon!!!:D

[ibjamn]

What about Breakfast places? Besides the Coffee Pot...We did the Sunday Jazz Brunch at Antoines last year, which was very nice, but we like to go out for breakfast during the week... suggestions?

Elizabeth's
La Peniche
Clover Grill
Russell's Marina Grill
Lil Dizzy's (brunch on Sat.)

[Zydekitten]

Elizabeth's
La Peniche
Clover Grill
Russell's Marina Grill
Lil Dizzy's (brunch on Sat.)

I completely concur on Elizabeth's (which ever-so-luckily is just a couple of blocks from where I stay in the Bywater)!!!

Also, Clover Grill - incredible waffles and omelets! I've heard Lil Dizzy's is great and it's in the Vaucresson family - so that's a good place to support. I also really like the breakfast at 13 on Frenchmen St. - it's run by the son of the Molly in the Market guy and a great little place for breakfast; late, late night eats and a fun jukebox! :D

[Jacquesimomo]

Thanks MGB for the Dick & Jennys tip.

Where is Dante's?

Dante's Kitchen is at 736 Dante not far from Jacques-imo's and Maple Leaf etc... that part of town (Carrolton area)

[bluesmama]

Is Pascal Manale's (sp) still there. I ate there many years ago. Seems like it was kind of out of the way - so long ago I can't remember. But, I do remember those barbeque shrimp! I've tried that dish many places since then and have always been dissapointed.

[rosetree]

Is Pascal Manale's (sp) still there. I ate there many years ago. Seems like it was kind of out of the way - so long ago I can't remember. But, I do remember those barbeque shrimp! I've tried that dish many places since then and have always been dissapointed.

Funny you should ask Bluesmama..I was just reading this week's Gambit about 1/2 hour ago, and their cuisine section had an article on Pascal's Manale! Yes, they are open, and serving those lovely barbequed swimps. They mentioned a bbq swimp po-boy that they serve @ lunch that got me real hungry!!
I would put a link up, but their server is down right now....

[rosetree]

Dante's Kitchen is at 736 Dante not far from Jacques-imo's and Maple Leaf etc... that part of town (Carrolton area)
It's across the street from Brigsten's ;)

[NOLA]

I wanted to try Ralph's last time I was in town, but didn't get to... tell me about it, pls. It looked so nice from the website... worth trying to get ressies there?

I think so. It is on City Park Avenue right across from one of the entrances to the park, with a great view out the picture windows. It is a Brennan's restaurant, owned and operated by Ralph Brennan. I've had consistently very good quality food and the usual top-notch Brennan's service when I've been there. It is a little off the beaten path for visitors, but reservations would be a good idea during Fest.

[bluesmama]

Funny you should ask Bluesmama..I was just reading this week's Gambit about 1/2 hour ago, and their cuisine section had an article on Pascal's Manale! Yes, they are open, and serving those lovely barbequed swimps. They mentioned a bbq swimp po-boy that they serve @ lunch that got me real hungry!!
I would put a link up, but their server is down right now....

Thanks for the info RT! The po-boy sure sounds good! Maybe it wouldn't be as messy as the original dish.
Where are they located? This old brain dosen't work like it used to.
We are staying at the Monteleone. I believe it's quite a way from there.

[NOLA]

Marisol is gone forever :(, but Janice & Chef Pete Vasquez (of Marisol) are over at Bacchanal on Sunday evening, cooking up sepcial menus each week.

Where is Bacchanal? I'm not familiar with it...

[NOLA]

Thanks for the info RT! The po-boy sure sounds good! Maybe it wouldn't be as messy as the original dish.
Where are they located? This old brain dosen't work like it used to.
We are staying at the Monteleone. I believe it's quite a way from there.

On Napoleon at Barrone, just a couple blocks off St. Charles. Look for the pink and green neon...

It is definitely a cab ride from the Quarter.

[PaulC]

I refuse to read this thread yet,.. still too long a wait... I will read this thread each and every single day starting a week before fest....

Haven't mentioned this yet,.. but my far better half made hebe's famous bread (with fresh blue crab and shrimp substituting for the mud bugs) for the Super Bowl and then again (thanks to my request,.. beggin' qualifies as a request) the very next weekend... She made big enough portions (2nd weekend just for us) that I was lucky enough to have a generous servin' of it for 11 out of 13 days runnin',.. lunch and dinner on at least three very fortunate days............ I almost overdid it,.. but man oh man was that stuff goooooooooooood!!!!!!!!

[Freakwinox]

Not sure how "new" this info is but Andy J. Forest has opened his coffee shop in the bywater - 3218 Dauphine. His website has more info, looks like a cool place.

[Amyloves...]

MGB....does Dick & Jenny's still let you bring your own wine? That may have just been those first couple of years.

Have any of yall tried Crepe Nanou? It's one of my faves....love it!

[ibjamn]

I refuse to read this thread yet,.. still too long a wait... I will read this thread each and every single day starting a week before fest....

Haven't mentioned this yet,.. but my far better half made hebe's famous bread (with fresh blue crab and shrimp substituting for the mud bugs) for the Super Bowl and then again (thanks to my request,.. beggin' qualifies as a request) the very next weekend... She made big enough portions (2nd weekend just for us) that I was lucky enough to have a generous servin' of it for 11 out of 13 days runnin',.. lunch and dinner on at least three very fortunate days............ I almost overdid it,.. but man oh man was that stuff goooooooooooood!!!!!!!!

Awesome, Paul! :)

[Jacquesimomo]

It's across the street from Brigsten's ;)

Thanks Rosetree---I wasn't driving last year and only know that it was around the corner so to speak from our friend's house on Cohn; probably better to have a landmark from a local then some not so good directions from an out of towner. :)

[ibjamn]

Where is Bacchanal? I'm not familiar with it...

Frank, Bacchanal is a wonderful, funky lil wine shop in the Bywater, near Jack Dempsey's.
http://www.bacchanalwine.com/

On Sunday nights, Chef Pete from Marisol chooses a "theme" menu and cooks it up up the patio. I got the newsletter today & this Sunday's menu is french.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p136/ibjamn50/chefpete.jpg

Chef Pete (that barbarian!) invades France, plunders their recipes, captures classic dishes, and brings the booty back to Bacchanal this Sunday, March 4 at 5pm.

Please join us this Sunday, March 4 for fine French food and balmy breezes in Bacchanal's backyard, 5pm until the food runs out!




Pete Invades France
From the stylish boulevards of Paris to the picturesque countryside of Gascony, Chef Pete captures the flavors of France with this week's menu!

Spinach Soup with Saffron
Ratatouille Provencal
Mesclun Salad with Radishes and Mustard Vinaigrette
Boudin Noir with Coarse Mustard Sauce
Garlic Sausage “en Crepinette”
Goat Cheese & Escargot Profiteroles a la Bourguignonne
Tete de Cochon with Sauce Gribiche
Crisp Sweetbreads with Truffle Ravioli
Ballotine of Duckling with Green Peppercorn Sauce
Roast Pork Shoulder with Potatoes, Onions & Prunes
Grilled Skirt Steak with Red Wine Sauce and Marrow Toast
Oeufs a la Neige
Joel Robuchon’s Chocolate Tart
Lemon Eclairs

Bacchanal Where Y'at?



Sunday, March 4



5 pm until the food runs out!



600 Poland Avenue
In the Bywater



Ask Chris Anything



Call 948-9111



Bacchanal Fun Facts
Ask proprietor Chris Rudge to help you select just the right wine. Imported Cheese & Pate' plates are available, too.

The patio is available for private parties.

[breambob]

I refuse to read this thread yet,.. still too long a wait... I will read this thread each and every single day starting a week before fest....

Haven't mentioned this yet,.. but my far better half made hebe's famous bread (with fresh blue crab and shrimp substituting for the mud bugs) for the Super Bowl and then again (thanks to my request,.. beggin' qualifies as a request) the very next weekend... She made big enough portions (2nd weekend just for us) that I was lucky enough to have a generous servin' of it for 11 out of 13 days runnin',.. lunch and dinner on at least three very fortunate days............ I almost overdid it,.. but man oh man was that stuff goooooooooooood!!!!!!!!

I think that's good reading advice, Paul. This dam thred is setting me into Pavlov's Dog mode.
But, I'm glad you posted your take on hebe's bread. I'm gonna get my momma to try that with crab and swimps, she doesn't like crawfish but loves baked seafood stuff. I don't have the guts to try hebe's recipe myself, but it is a wonderful taste thang.

So now I'll mention The Red Maple in Algiers. Excellent dining in a casual atmosphere. They don't mind a group of festers coming in at 9pm, as long as you've cleaned up after fest. Good Italian, Creole and traditional NO food. $40- $80 per, dependiing on the wine and drink choices.

[Mardigrasbaby35]

MGB....does Dick & Jenny's still let you bring your own wine? That may have just been those first couple of years.

Have any of yall tried Crepe Nanou? It's one of my faves....love it!

I'm not sure if you can still bring you're own wine to Dick & Jenny's - now, i remember the first time i went there they didn't have their liquour lisence yet so everyone would run across the street to Sav-A-Center and buy wine and bring it back - they're pretty laid back, so i bet they probably still do, but they might charge a corkage fee....

La Crepe Nanou is another one of my favorites (i'm actually friends with one of the owners), very tasty - french "fare" great salads, crepes, seafood, and they make a fabolous steak with "pomme frites" - its one of those places where you can go lite and have a great meal or heavy and have a great meal, and don't even get me started about the desserts......

[Mardigrasbaby35]

No one has mentioned this one, but its another one of my favorites - very close to the fair grounds, french food and wonderful - they do a great brunch on the weekends too.

[mightyradgumbo]

The Bluebird is good, Cafe Atchafalaya (with it's weird schedule) and Elizabeth's in Bywater are some of my faves....

YYR, orleans, Elizabeths is very good for breakfast-The omelettes are very good as well as the breakfast po boy.

[ibjamn]

YYR, orleans, Elizabeths is very good for breakfast-The omelettes are very good as well as the breakfast po boy.


The grillades and grits, only available on Saturday are the best! Also the calas & praline bacon......I'm getting hungry....

[Amyloves...]

Jenn I've only been there once post-Thing and it wasn't nearly what it had been. Was it just a bad day?? I hope so cause I loved it before!! It was almost a year ago.

[ibjamn]

Jenn I've only been there once post-Thing and it wasn't nearly what it had been. Was it just a bad day?? I hope so cause I loved it before!! It was almost a year ago.

We've been 3 time post thing, 1st time was great, 2nd time iffy, 3rd time it was great again. I'm hoping 2nd time was a fluke. ;)

[Amyloves...]

Glad to hear that and I'll be happy to give it another shot!

[NOLA]

Amyloves and MGB, I agree with you on Crepe Nanou - I love their steamed mussels and pate' plate among other things.

MGB, I'm also with you on Cafe' Degas, I think I mentioned it early on in this thread. I stopped in on my way home from Fest one day last year and got a reservation for later that night - how great is that?

Jenn, I may just have to check out Bacchanal this Sunday!

[funkkjunkie]

Mamaroux, I didn't know pdkk had queens. What do you preside over as queen? Are there kings too?

[Zydekitten]

Jenn I've only been there once post-Thing and it wasn't nearly what it had been. Was it just a bad day?? I hope so cause I loved it before!! It was almost a year ago.
I was just there this past December and it was excellent!!! As with any restaurant, it can depend on who was cooking that day . . .

[Zydekitten]

Jenn, I may just have to check out Bacchanal this Sunday!

The friend in the Bywater that I stay with when in New Orleans SWEARS by the Bacchanal and is always telling me about the great meals she's had there - I'm going to make sure I check it out when there for Jazzfest this year!

[ibjamn]

Another thumbs WAYYYYY UP for Mandinas! We tried to go last Saturday, but it was vewwwy crowded with a long line. Today we got there at 11am opening and got a table right away, but by the time we had ordered appies & drinks, it was full with 4-6 people waiting.
The remodeling is fantastic, but still in the old style, the bar is gorgeous.
We tend to get onion rings everywhere & rate them. These are the best we've had! We also shared a cup of oyster/artichoke soup. Plump, very fresh oysters, this was good.
David got the chicken parm and loved the fresh pasta & red gravy. I had the half and half oysters & catfish plate. The catfish was wild (thin & crispy) and not farm raised. There were 10 or 12 bite size oysters and everything was perfectly fried. I was too full to eat the french fries, but I ate a couple & they weren't battered, but maybe dipped in seasoned flour before frying. Everything was wonderful! http://forums.randi.org/images/smilies/wacky%20emoticons%20addon%20pack/notworthy.gif
cash only (same as before the thing.

[Orleansnj]

Another thumbs WAYYYYY UP for Mandinas! We tried to go last Saturday, but it was vewwwy crowded with a long line. Today we got there at 11am opening and got a tale right away, but by the time we had ordered appies & drinks, it was full with 4-6 people waiting.
The remodeling is fantastic, but still in the old style, the bar is gorgeous.
We tend to get onion rings everywhere & rate them. These are the best we've had! We also shared a cup of oyster/artichoke soup. Plump, very fresh oysters, this was good.
David got the chicken parm and loved the fresh pasta & red gravy. I had the half and half oysters & catfish plate. The catfish was wild (thin & crispy) and not farm raised. There were 10 or 12 bite size oysters and everything was perfectly fried. I was too full to eat the french fries, but I ate a couple & they weren't battered, but maybe dipped in seasoned flour before frying. Everything was wonderful! http://forums.randi.org/images/smilies/wacky%20emoticons%20addon%20pack/notworthy.gif
cash only (same as before the thing.


oh - that is soooooo good to hear....Mandinas has the best onion rings on the planet - i have to agree with you.....mmm....this is so on my list for the daze between. Can't wait to go back there...it's been too long.

Husband and I used to go every single week when we lived in the city. Can't wait ! May have to go twice - ooh !!!

[linza22]

irenes, baked oysters at arnouds and of course Coops.

[Amyloves...]

oh - that is soooooo good to hear....Mandinas has the best onion rings on the planet - i have to agree with you.....mmm....this is so on my list for the daze between. Can't wait to go back there...it's been too long.

Husband and I used to go every single week when we lived in the city. Can't wait ! May have to go twice - ooh !!!

We had the onion rings as an appy on Thursday night and they were excellent! The place looked great.....like freshened up but with the same old feel. Same bartenders too I think, at least a couple of them definitely were.

[justagirl]

Some of my favourites are...

Rio Mar
La Boca (sit at the bar and let Dean take care of ya)
Coop's
Adolpho's
Dick and Jenny's
Yo Mamma's if you're craving a burger

and several of the others mentioned already like Brigtsen's, Irene's, and Bacchanal on Sunday evenings.

Good solid home cooking at Joey K's too if you happen to be in the area.

[Zydekitten]

Some of my favourites are...

Rio Mar
La Boca (sit at the bar and let Dean take care of ya)
Coop's
Adolpho's
Dick and Jenny's
Yo Mamma's if you're craving a burger

and several of the others mentioned already like Brigtsen's, Irene's, and Bacchanal on Sunday evenings.

Good solid home cooking at Joey K's too if you happen to be in the area.

Welcome, JustaGirl!!!

I am very fond of Coop's - it's one of the very first places I ate at in the Quarter on my very first Jazzfest trip, lo, those many years ago!!

They had great, inexpensive food and an outrageous atmosphere - it's where I saw my first belly shot (!) :D

[justagirl]

Then you'll love Yo Mamma's! You never know what you'll see there :) Can't wait to meet some of ya'll!!!

[Zydekitten]

Where is it?? I usually go to the Clover Grill or Krystal (I LOVE those little sliders) to satisfy my burger jones when in NOLA :D

[justagirl]

Across from Pat O's. It's in the biker bar area. They have the largest selection of tequila in town...if that interests you.

I personally love the Bullfighter. It's got salsa, jalapenos and avacado on it. You can get it with a loaded (or whatever you want on it) baked potato or side salad (great home made dressings too).

Right now they are doing boiled crawfish on the weekends, three batches Fri-Sat-Sun. If they have the crawfish and aligator sausage, try it, it's really good.

It's an interesting place.....I vaguely recall doing cartwheels in the bar and splits on the bar one night with the bartender...but that was many years ago! Aparently I taste tested some of them tequilas that night! LOL

[Zydekitten]

Well, I'm not a big jalapeno gal - and I get enough of that stuff here in Cali. When in New Orleans, I prefer to eat local food - not the kind I get at home here all of the time . . . however it sounds like a most excellent place and exactly the kind of insanity I like (although I think I'll skip the cartwheels on the bar)! ;)

[Bill/KC]

Mr. B's Bistro is one of my favs. Always go there at least once while we're in town. I also like Angeli's too.

[Corona]

Then you'll love Yo Mamma's! You never know what you'll see there :) Can't wait to meet some of ya'll!!!
justagirl...I LOVE your avatar :) Welcome!!

[NYMAMA]

Always go to Angelis for lunch on the first day we arrive. Great portabella samich and pasta salad!

[ibjamn]

Some of my favourites are...

Rio Mar
La Boca (sit at the bar and let Dean take care of ya)
Coop's
Adolpho's
Dick and Jenny's
Yo Mamma's if you're craving a burger

and several of the others mentioned already like Brigtsen's, Irene's, and Bacchanal on Sunday evenings.

Good solid home cooking at Joey K's too if you happen to be in the area.

Hey Girl!!! http://forums.randi.org/images/smilies/wave2.gif

[stlbarb]

Note to self: DO NOT READ THIS THREAD BEFORE BREAKFAST!

[pokerchick66]

Well, I'm not a big jalapeno gal - and I get enough of that stuff here in Cali. When in New Orleans, I prefer to eat local food - not the kind I get at home here all of the time . . . however it sounds like a most excellent place and exactly the kind of insanity I like (although I think I'll skip the cartwheels on the bar)! ;)

And the splits! :eek:

[justagirl]

Hey ibjamn! (insert waving smiley here)

I'm afraid I gave out too much info...must learn to ease in slowly to the new (to me) board....:o

[pokerchick66]

Hey ibjamn! (insert waving smiley here)

I'm afraid I gave out too much info...must learn to ease in slowly to the new (to me) board....:o

No you didn't. We LOVE too much info! :D

Let your freak flag fly, baby! :D

[Amy Winette]

Hey ibjamn! (insert waving smiley here)

I'm afraid I gave out too much info...must learn to ease in slowly to the new (to me) board....:o

No way, that's great! I only wish I could do splits and cartwheels, and on a bar is mucho impressive :)

[Corona]

Hey ibjamn! (insert waving smiley here)

I'm afraid I gave out too much info...must learn to ease in slowly to the new (to me) board....:o
nah girl.....never too much info. First thing I thought of when I read that was "Right on, that's my kinda gal" :)

[Mardigrasbaby35]

Hey ibjamn! (insert waving smiley here)

I'm afraid I gave out too much info...must learn to ease in slowly to the new (to me) board....:o

Yep, we're all friends here and NOTHING is shocking or considered too much;)

[Zydekitten]

Hey ibjamn! (insert waving smiley here)

I'm afraid I gave out too much info...must learn to ease in slowly to the new (to me) board....:o

It's not possible to share too much on the Bored, and I admire you greatly for your feats of tavern gymnastics!!! I usually just stick to dancing on the bar (or furniture) myself - (and that's not just a line, I've done it) . . .

You just keep on sharing more about you, chica - you seem fun, outrageous and someone I'd love to know more about!!! http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o67/Zydekitten/Nihao1x_pix.gif

[NeenAtlanta]

One of my best friends was dancing topless on top of a bar at 2am one night, singing "Son of A Preacher Man" along with the jukebox. Nothing shocks me. In fact, I'm jealous of her lack of inhibitions!

[ibjamn]

JustaGirl is a very good friend of mine; she knows TONS about NOLA'S restaurants, she know lots about food & wine. Most importantly, she knows EVERY bartender in town!!! :)

It was just chance that we & she were in New England when "the thing" destroyed our homes, we watched it come in together at my in-laws house in NH..
I love you, Rae & am sooo glad you decided to come over here & post on this board!!!
http://forums.randi.org/images/smilies/bounce016.gif

[funkkjunkie]

That good friend has to be hotlantaj, yes?

[Goose]

Bumping for socaleric! :)

[RevDon]

just one? last year we decided to go for a finer dining experience and i have to say restaurant august has to be one of the best i've had anywhere.

YYR Fester, my wife and I couldn't agree with you more. John Besh has the Midas touch alright. I hear his Harrah's Steakhouse is outstanding, and now he owns La Provence in Mandeville too.

[Orleansnj]

The steak house in the casino is incredible. I nearly died when my m-I-L announced that we were going to go there (I thought great - a rest. in the casino - just like Picadilly....mmmmm)....

We sat at the bar because we had no rezzies - the guy 4 people down from me was smoking a huge cigar and I DID NOT even smell it. Their ventilation system is the best i've seen. The bar is great - the guy who was tending the bar was incredible. The menu, food and everything was great. I would go back there in a heart beat. Never in my life would I ever think that I was going to recommend a casino based restaurant. John Besh has nailed it - and nailed down some incredibly talented and fun staff members as well - which has been less than easy for most establishments post thing. (BTW - I am a food snob - meaning it has to be good - and it has to be what you are serving - not what you are tryin' to be. As long as it is excellent - then you are good to go. That's one of the reasons jazzfest is so fun to me - it showcases some incredible food for newbies without incredible prices.... ).

[ohio]

The steak house in the casino is incredible. I nearly died when my m-I-L announced that we were going to go there (I thought great - a rest. in the casino - just like Picadilly....mmmmm)....

We sat at the bar because we had no rezzies - the guy 4 people down from me was smoking a huge cigar and I DID NOT even smell it. Their ventilation system is the best i've seen. The bar is great - the guy who was tending the bar was incredible. The menu, food and everything was great. I would go back there in a heart beat. Never in my life would I ever think that I was going to recommend a casino based restaurant. John Besh has nailed it - and nailed down some incredibly talented and fun staff members as well - which has been less than easy for most establishments post thing. (BTW - I am a food snob - meaning it has to be good - and it has to be what you are serving - not what you are tryin' to be. As long as it is excellent - then you are good to go. That's one of the reasons jazzfest is so fun to me - it showcases some incredible food for newbies without incredible prices.... ).At the casino Belterra just southwest of here in IN, is the best steak house around! Ruby's. You pay for it, but it's better than Morton's!

[Terry]

I can't name just one. But I can narrow it down by neighborhood...

Quarter - Bayona
Warehouse District - Tommy's
River Bend - Brigtsen's
Garden District - Commander's Palace
CBD - August
Fairgrounds - Cafe' Degas
City Park/Mid City - Ralph's

Great idea listing by neighborhood for those of us who may not know location.

[Chas_P]

If I listed one, it would be Bayonna. In fact, we arrive at the Lemoyne about 4 on the 24th. We'll change, grab a drink and be at Bayonna at 6:30 ordering some cream of garlic soup to start.

The others would be Brigsten's, but I'm not sure I want to travel that far with everything else going on.

We've also enjoyed Palace Cafe on Canal and Mr. B's, although I see from their site they hope to re-open next month.

[LACA Native]

I'm sorry I didn't read all entries of this thread, but wondered if anyone has tried Cochon? cajun, southern food - unbelievable fried chicken livers and bloody marys, in a beautiful new restaurant located on Tchoupitoulas Street. Check out their website.

http://www.cochonrestaurant.com/

[rosetree]

I'm sorry I didn't read all entries of this thread, but wondered if anyone has tried Cochon? cajun, southern food - unbelievable fried chicken livers and bloody marys, in a beautiful new restaurant located on Tchoupitoulas Street. Check out their website.

http://www.cochonrestaurant.com/

I've been there. They have had some great reviews. The food was good, but I would have liked bigger portions. The size of the plates at Praline Connection is huge! I have trouble finishing the livers( and I like to eat:D )

[pokerchick66]

I'm sorry I didn't read all entries of this thread, but wondered if anyone has tried Cochon? cajun, southern food - unbelievable fried chicken livers and bloody marys, in a beautiful new restaurant located on Tchoupitoulas Street. Check out their website.

http://www.cochonrestaurant.com/

Hey bra, do me a favor and please don't be showing me links that make ya drool. :( ;)

Louisiana cochon with turnips, cabbage & cracklins? Sweet Jesus. /slurp.

[sophisticated sissy]

Yes, just stop it.
All y'all are making me about plain sick! :)
This food talk is getting to me worse than FOMS gets everyone else!

[festivalgirl]

Hey Locals - Any word on Dooky Chase? Are they really going to be able to open before Jazz Fest? I know the goal was Holy Thursday.

I'm trying to plan the JF dinner resy's .......

[rosetree]

Hey bra, do me a favor and please don't be showing me links that make ya drool. :( ;)

Louisiana cochon with turnips, cabbage & cracklins? Sweet Jesus. /slurp.

That's what I had!!!! (along with some other stuff ;) ):D

[LACA Native]

Praline Connection for sure on the fried chicken liver portion...that has made many a entree for me! is it me, or after "K"... Praline Connection food has not been the same. Understandable, of course, but I'm just sayin.

[rosetree]

Praline Connection for sure on the fried chicken liver portion...that has made many a entree for me! is it me, or after "K"... Praline Connection food has not been the same. Understandable, of course, but I'm just sayin.
From what I understand, the staff had a big turn-over since K:(

[Cleophus]

Hey Locals - Any word on Dooky Chase? Are they really going to be able to open before Jazz Fest? I know the goal was Holy Thursday.

I'm trying to plan the JF dinner resy's .......

I thought I read April 15 on http://www.dookychaserestaurant.com/ a couple of weeks ago, but I can't sem to find that info on their site now.

[pokerchick66]

That's what I had!!!! (along with some other stuff ;) ):D

Shut up! ;)

[rosetree]

Shut up! ;)

Love you too!!! ;)

[Festngator]

APRIL 15 is a fund raiser at Muriel's with Leah cooking
http://www.dookychaserestaurant.com/chefs.html

[pokerchick66]

Love you too!!! ;)

I am soooo ready for the food list to be out.

[Festngator]

One of the biggest Creole events at the Dooky Chase Restaurant is the annual Gumbo des Herbes feast, served traditionally on Holy Thursday. 4 15

[rosetree]

I am soooo ready for the food list to be out.

Why, you need more torture!!!! Then we have FOMF....aaaarrrrgggghhhhh:eek:

[pokerchick66]

Why, you need more torture!!!! Then we have FOMF....aaaarrrrgggghhhhh:eek:

I know I probably asked you already but are you gonna be there for both weekends?

[rosetree]

I know I probably asked you already but are you gonna be there for both weekends?

I am going to try and come first Saturday to play around ( I don't do that often....I know that's sacrilege), I'm working Ms. Lena's Sunday morning, so I have the afternoon to play. Second weekend is spent mostly in my booth with an occasional venture out to catch a couple of songs if I can ( and get cracklins and Prejean's gumbo!!!:D )

[pokerchick66]

I am going to try and come first Saturday to play around ( I don't do that often....I know that's sacrilege), I'm working Ms. Lena's Sunday morning, so I have the afternoon to play. Second weekend is spent mostly in my booth with an occasional venture out to catch a couple of songs if I can ( and get cracklins and Prejean's gumbo!!!:D )

Good to know.

I was just thinking about that gumbo today. That is the BEST gumbo. I've never tried the cracklins at fest yet. You're sure they're gonna have them yet?

[rosetree]

Good to know.

I was just thinking about that gumbo today. That is the BEST gumbo. I've never tried the cracklins at fest yet. You're sure they're gonna have them yet?

Not sure yet...if not, I WILL get some..hmmm can you freeze cracklins????

[Orleansnj]

I bet you can - but the question is - how do you reheat them so they have that snap? If you thaw them they might get too soggy...

hmmmm...... flash fry to reheat is the answer - but the question really is how to thaw them......

[water angel]

Asian Cajun!!!!

[tbone]

Does anyone local know if Santa Fe is still open? When trying to call it says that the phone has been disconnected. I hope that this is not a bad sign.

[festivalgirl]

One of the biggest Creole events at the Dooky Chase Restaurant is the annual Gumbo des Herbes feast, served traditionally on Holy Thursday. 4 15

i think that's last year's post. if holy thursday is before easter, it should be 4/4 this year. but this is coming from a good (?) jewish girl! ;)

[RevDon]

Food critic Tom Fitzmorris has a list of open restaurants on his website: http://www.nomenu.com that he constantly updates.

[Azeater]

I read that the Camilla was reopening on April 20th. I wonder how it will be. The food was good, I thought, but the theatre of going there is what made it a dining stop I felt compelled to do every time I came to the city. I wonder if it will still be the same as it was. It has new owner's doesn't it? Anyone know if it will still have anything resembling it's past uniqueness? I hope some of the past employees have been rehired to come back and work there. I certainly hope it does not just become a shell of itself!