New Orleans for 3 days during Mardi Gras

[coreydylan]

Coming into town for three days...family of four, so would love suggestions for local joints that have good food on a budget. We do not need fancy atmosphere, just good food. Two kids, one of which is as much of a foodie as we are. Husband and I will be going out Valentines for one good meal and would love to know which place to make a reservation at...Galatoires, Commander's, Emeril's....? Thanks!!!

[coreydylan]

Thanks so much for the info...I will try some of the suggestions for Vday. Any thoughts on the cheap eats?

[coreydylan]

Just found out we are staying in the French Quarter at The Hampton. Thank you for the suggestions so far!! I got reservations for Friday lunch at Commander's and V-day dinner at Mr. B's. Slim pickens for reservations at this point and a lot is closed for Mardi Gras.

[JazzyB]

Mr. B's strictly for bbq shrimp and Gumbo YaYa otherwise, I'd pass. Try Coquette (uptown), Irene's (FQ), Le Foret (CBD, 1st block of Camp, across Canal).

[TaTee]

Try to get a reservation at the Rib Room/Royal Orleans or Muriels for Valentine's Day.
Mr. B's is not very romantic IMHO. Lunch at Mr. B's is OK. Be patient during Mardi Gras, our kitchen staff and wait staff like to party and many places will have no shows and be understaffed. Getting in and out of the FQ is difficult...with parades passing on Canal at night. Still you will have a wonderful time, if you plan ahead and don't let things bother you.

[lawstudent]

I would choose one of the smaller restaurants Uptown for Valentine's Dinner - One, Mat & Naddie's, and Coquette are my faves.

For your other meals - Mandina's, Pascal's Manale, and Parkway Bakery & Tavern. Be prepared to wait a while at Parkway. It's a very popular spot.

Of course, if you are looking for stuff within walking distance to the Quarter this post will not help you.

[JazzyB]

Emeril's is closed 2/14 due to parades. We rarely dine out Mardi Gras weekend. Parade routes make it difficult to get around.

[uhockey]

Galatoire's is closed from 2/13-2/15.

Commander's is open, I'll be there on Valentines (I booked before even realizing it was Valentine's day) and serving their standard menu.

Most places are closed on 2/16 - Emeril's, August, Lukes are amongst the few open.

[hazelhurst]

Clarification...Galatoire's will re-open on Ash Wednesday so it is closed throught the 16th.