Pattie recommends


Lola's LOLA'S
3312 Esplanade Avenue
New Orleans, Louisiana 70119
(504) 488-6946
"You'd pass right by this somewhat dilapidated storefront spot if I didn't insist you stop! Lola's specializes in paella of every sort and a variety of other Spanish and Portugese dishes, all heavily garlicked. The place is tiny-not even a dozen tables-and they don't take reservations, so if you aren't there half an hour before opening, you're gonna wait! Pull up a chair or find a spot on the curb, 'cause once the door opens and those smells waft out, you're chained to the sidewalk! They don't have a liquor license, which works in your favor budget-wise.  Simply walk down the block to Whole Foods for a great selection of chilled wines and beer. Lola's wait staff will uncork it for you (no fee) and bring you a plastic cup. (By the time you're seated, you may have made a second trip across the street!) Don't be discouraged - it's worth every minute of the wait. Try the mussels or fried calamari appetizer (wish I could figure out what's in that sauce). My pick is the spinach linguini, but my husband always goes for the seafood paella. Everyone raves over the garlic soup, though I haven't been that brave. Other choices include fresh grilled fish and pork loin. There's just one room, with an open kitchen, so it gets a bit loud, but that's part of the fun. The prices are super, just $10-$20. Be sure to bring cash, as they don't take credit cards or out-of-town checks."
---Pattie

Casual
Reservations not accepted.
Seating on first-come, first-served basis.

Hours of operation:
Daily   6:00-10:00 pm

How to get there:
Taxi or private car


Jacques-Imo's JACQUES-IMO's
8324 Oak Street
(504)861-0886
http://www.jacquesimoscafe.com
Jacques-Imo's Kitchen
"Look for the funky truck parked on the street, and you'll know you've found Jacques-Imo. (There may even be a table set up in the truck bed with diners feasting!) You'll pass right through the kitchen on the way to your table - in summer, the temperature in there is a good 30 degrees higher than outside! Get at least 5 people together and you can get a reservation. Otherwise, plan on waiting at least an hour or more. To pass the time, go next door to the Maple Leaf Bar, and the hostess from Jacques-Imo will walk over and get you when your table's ready. This is a great place for a party with mixed preferences, as you'll find both Creole and soul food with a little of whatever else strikes the chef's fancy thrown in. I love the acorn squash with crawfish and coconut curry sauce. Sounds weird, but it's heavenly. My husband prefers the pork, while friends enjoy the variety of fresh fish. Don't miss the shrimp and alligator cheesecake. Check out the menu...there's something just for you! The restaurant's atmosphere is energetic, with interesting artwork and murals and some creative use of Mardi Gras beads. This is a great spot for a large group!"
---Pattie

Casual
Reservations accepted for groups of 5 or more (up to 30 days in advance)

MENU

Chef Jacques Leonardi
Hours of operation:
Monday-Thursday   5:30-10:00 pm
Friday & Saturday 5:30-10:30 pm

How to get there:
St. Charles streetcar to Oak St., then walk 2 blocks
Taxi or private car

Jacques-Imo's

Laissez les Bon Temp Roulez!