How to Eat Well at Commander's Palace

Commander's Palace is a legendary New Orleans dining spot, nestled surprisingly in the residential Garden District, across from Lafayette Cemetary #1. Its excellent food is part of the city's lore, and to go to New Orleans without eating there would be considered by many a wasted trip.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Reserve a table at least two weeks in advance, and longer if you are in New Orleans during a major event such as Mardis Gras or Jazz Festival.

2. Dress appropriately for the venue. You will not see a man in the dining room at dinner without at least a sportcoat on.

3. Order the turtle soup to start. Made from farm-raised snapping turtles, it is slightly spicy and very flavorful. Few who like other tomato-based meat soups would find the taste objectionable, and the turtle soup is part of the New Orleans experience.

4. Ask your waiter for advice on what is in season for your main course.

5. Select the Bananas Foster as your dessert, as you will get both a tasty conclusion to your meal, and entertainment watching the flames reach to the ceiling as your banana is carmelized in sugar and alcohol.

Tips & Warnings

• Try not to eat a big lunch if you're headed to Commander's Palace for dinner.
• Commander's palace is not a trendy destination, and the clientele tends to be in their 40's and 50's, and often tourists. If you're seeking a more New York -style modern setting, try Emeril's in the Warehouse District.
• Dinner before drinks will likely run over $150 for a couple.

on 2/15/2006 Although it's been over ten years, I still remember the oysters meuniere as the hands-down highlight of my meal there.
We were about 15 in our party (part of a convention), and the wait-service was outstanding. The prices ran (remember, 10 years ago!) about
$50 per person, not including wine.
Well worth it!