Romancing in New Orleans

Given the history and diverse culture of New Orleans, coming across a restaurant with romantic ambiance is quite easy. With so many authentic Cajun/Creole, French, and Italian restaurants existing in New Orleans, finding a place to romance your partner is an easy feat. Most of the downtown New Orleans' restaurants are complete with beautiful, private courtyards.

First, I would recommend Commander's Palace on Washington Avenue, located in the historic Garden District. In 1995, this restaurant was rated Favorite Overall Restaurant and in 1996 their chef was voted New Orleans Magazine Chef of the Year. The attire is dressy, jacket required for men. This five-star restaurant's cuisine is Cajun/Creole and French, with prices ranging from $18 to $24 a dish. They are widely known for their 25 cents martinis at lunchtime. Another ideal time to dine there is for brunch. You can enjoy their Jazz brunch out on the patio - true New Orleans atmosphere. Their menu can be found at www.commanderspalace.com.

Secondly, you could opt to be surrounded by soft lighting at the Court of Two Sisters on Royal Street in the French Quarter. They are known for having the largest dining courtyard in the Quarter, decorated with beautiful flowers and soothing, flowing fountains. As with Commander's Palace, they too boast a live daily jazz brunch. Their menu options range from Eggs Benedict to local creole fare. Again, the attire for this restaurant is dressy as well; jacket required for men. Their menu can be found at www.courtoftwosisters.com.

Thirdly, I highly recommend Impastato's Restaurant located on 16^th Street in Metairie, LA. The Sicilian-born owner, Joe Impastato, has maintained this family-owned restaurant along with his wife and offers the finest Italian fare. They are widely known for their five-course dinner, in which reservations are highly recommended. Starting with Pasta Asciutta instead of the standard salad or soup, the next dish is a creamy Fettucine Alfredo. Next, you are served a romaine salad with tomatoes, followed by your choice of entrée. The meal is completed with an Amaretto Parfait and coffee. Their authentic Italian cuisine and family-oriented atmosphere is a wonderful romantic date spot. Their cuisine can be found online at www.impastatos.com.