The Big Easy - San Diego

[berliz]

j noticed a new restaurant called the big easy on university in hillcrest - anyone been there - any comments?

[stevewag23]

Ate at the big easy. Food not bad, but not great (then again, when do you ever eat good new orleans styled food outside of new orleans?) and service was laughable. But I have been in san diego long enough to not let that phase me.

The decor is nice, and seems like something you would find in new orleans.

The Bud's that used to inhabit Little Italy was better in my opinion.

[Captain Jack]

What did you order? Did you try any flambes? How about the bananas foster? Details steve, details :)

[stevewag23]

I am drawing a complete blank (not a good sign).

The person I was with ordered something else but they brought them ribs. Which turned out to be mediocre.

[stevewag23]

Have not been yet, it is in the old space occupied by Better Half.

Interested as well in any feedback.

The chef is Frankie the Bull from Top chef fame.

[nessy]

Went today. Very good. They said they have only been open an week and are working out the knicks. Seems there is breakfast, with a bakery case displaying a good variety of baked goods that would be nice for take-out. They claimed to do beignets--so I want to try that!
We had lunch--I have an oyster po-boy--very good with a nice tangy remoulade (sp??), crisp cornmeal crust on the oysters, bread soft but chewy in a good way, and lettuce and tomatos. My sides were hushpuppies that seemed kind of dense/soggy, but tasted great, and fried green tomatos. Those were good. My husband had the shrimp poboy and his sweet potato fries were perfect, and the house slaw had orange and walnuts in it-different and tasty. My daughter had the chicken pot pie--puff pastry rounds on top and bottom. Filling had plenty of chicken, a flavorful gravy and some good veggies in there. She claimed there was too much pepper, but that is a good thing, as she perfers all sauces to taste as bland as wall paper paste.
They REALLY bragged on their dinners--especially the alligator. The entrees looked interesting, with some "not the usual" cajun dishes. They do take-out or sit-down--nice dining room, not too fancy but not a "fast-food" look either.
I'll definately go back. Staff freindly and attentive, tho we were the only ones there at about 3 on Saturday afternoon.

[stevewag23]

Thanks for the feedback.

Have you been to Buds?

That would be the comparison to make.

[nessy]

You're right. I really like Bud's. This compared very favorably. As I mentioned, quite a bit more adventurous with the menu at Big Easy. We'll have to try some dinner items.