Quick Galatoire's Question

[hamsoda]

Hi all--

You're such a valuable resource. I'm going to New Orleans over Thanksgiving weekend, and I'm planning on finally going to Galatoire's. The experience seems a little daunting. I'm just wondering if I could walk up on a Sunday afternoon, say, four o'clock, and expect to get seated. I realize it's a potential crap shoot, but I've always wanted to go, and I don't need the whole Friday carnival. I just want to roll in and have a good time.

Possible? Any pointers on a potential time I could avoid making a hassle out of what I hope to be a relaxed, enjoyable time?

Thanks all. Always great to hear from you.

[edible complex]

that weekend beside Thanksgiving is Bayou Classic and also MNF Saints against the Patriots, so should be crowded in town. having said that, 4pm on a Sunday may just be the best time for a walk-in. otherwise, get a reservation for upstairs. if downstairs is available when you get there, then ask to be seated there instead.

[hazelhurst]

I have been several times during the Bayou Classic and the place was damn near empty--when you leave, though, it is hard to get onto the sidewalk.

Sunday midafternoon ought to be OK since most people don;t even think of eating around then.

[savory south]

Quite a few locals leave NOLA that weekend - the Bayou Classic crowd should be leaving on Sunday too, so you could possibly own your table downstairs.

Enjoy. Thanks for visiting New Orleans and spending $ in our city.

[hazelhurst]

I think you are right...and I echo the gratitude.

[Ross B]

I think some folks are intimidated to go into Galatoire's for the first time because it's rare that places require jackets these days and one might assume that it's stuffy or pretentious. It's anything but.

[hazelhurst]

You may well be right...and I agree about the un-pretentiousness. No doubt there will be some howls to the contrary but I think people can learn.

[Ross B]

Really? Howls? Are you saying that some people would consider it pretentious?

I'm not a native, have been only about seven or eight times, and have never felt out of place or treated with anything other than friendliness and respect.

[hazelhurst]

I have heard people declaim that it is "stuffy" and "conceited" and various other terms to suggest that the person was ill-at-ease. These comments are usually coupled with remarks that the food (often called "cuisine") is not innovative & not "knock your socks off." Ain't supposed to be. It is, in fact, a neighborhood restaurant and anyone is welcome to come and play

[Ross B]

The words that come to mind when I think of Galatoire's are classic, fun, reliable and tradition.

[hazelhurst]

Perfect...they should have that put on a Carnival throw-cup.