Headed to New Orleans for Mardi Gras? Don't head for all the tourist traps. Take it from a local. These are the realmust eat and drink hotspots in the Big Easy.
What To Eat Everyone talks about Commanders Palace and Mothers. Bleh. If you want a super touristy, fancy dinner, go to Commanders Palace. But stay away from Mothers. I'm not sure why so many people recommend it. It's soul food, cafeteria-style. Avoid it. Here are a few places we couldnt get enough of, which locals rave about as well: 1.Deanies Startwith the artichoke hearts. Don't feel bad when the waitress giggles as you order the giant seafood platter at Deanies for just two people. You will soon know why. This tower of fried seafood arrives at the table looking like a personal challenge from Poseidon. The platters menagerie of sea creatures are fried in a flavorful combination of yellow flour, buttermilk and seasonings. Go for it. 2.PetiteAmelie We cant say enough good things about it. Its gumbo is off the chain(thats still a saying, right?), and has chicken, sausage, okra and pure yummy-ness. If you are lucky, the restaurant might have some Doberge cake. It's delicious. Get it, and forget the king cake. This is the eats cafe. The owners have a full restaurant close by calledCafe Amelie, but you might want to make reservations. It gets packed.
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