January 2005

Long associated with the booze, beads and boobs of Bourbon Street, the party image of the Crescent City sometimes over shadows the fact that this berg is one of America's principle cuisine centers. Paul Prudhomme, Emeril and the Brennan Family seem to capture the lion's share of the media's interest, and rightfully so. These cuisine giants have found a way to continue the lineage of New Orleans cooking, yet interweave their own unique (and delicious!) flair.

But what of the restaurants that lie somewhere off the beaten path? The vast traditions of New Orleans and it's sheer size insists that good eats are to be had by tourist and locals alike. To that end, The Rant went on a treasure hunt to find the unappreciated, the unheard of, and the unlikely underdogs that will entice your taste buds and have you booking the next available flight to The Big Easy. Please enjoy the results of our sojourn!

Bayona 430 Rue Dauphine New Orleans LA 504-525-4455

Acme Oyster House 724 Iberville, New Orleans LA 504-522-5973

New Orleans Legends, Louis Armstrong International Airport, New Orleans LA

Annette's Cafe 213 Dauphine St. New Orleans LA 504-529-5741

Anthony's Seafood House #1 Poydras St. #113 New Orleans LA 504-524-1243

The Pearl 119 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans LA 504-525-2901

Huey's Diner 200 Magazine St. New Orleans LA 504-598-HUEY

Liborio Cuban Restaurant 321 Magazine St. New Orleans LA 504-581-9680

Pere Antoine 741 Royal St. New Orleans La 504-581-4478

Star Steak and Lobster 237 Decatur St. New Orleans LA 504-525-6151

Gelato Pazzo Caffe #1 Poydras St. #28 New Orleans, LA 504-304-6908

Marriott Court Yard Breakfast Buffet 124 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans LA 504-581-9005