A small yet dressy locals' bistro

Word to the wise: The restaurant is easy to miss. You'll find it tucked away in an apartment block on a quiet side street opposite the cemetery.

Gautreau's serves exquisite modern American cuisine, rather than typical New Orleans fare. It's a few blocks north of St. Charles in a quiet spot, but locals know it well. Dressy guests, a refined if gregarious and noisy atmosphere, and fine food keep their return rates high.

Chef Susan Zemanick's skills have been widely lauded - try the halibut, Black Angus filet, scallops or duck confit. This restaurant always brings a crowd, so reservations are highly recommended.