I have to agree with Blumie. Dante's is very good and I've enjoyed all of my meals there and will go back. However, it is not the "best" restaurant in New Orleans. In fact, I'm not sure there is a "best" restaurant here because we have so many excellent ones.
I can name several restaurants within 10 minutes or less of Dante's that are equal or better. Brigtsen's, Boucherie, Gautreau's, Martinique, Bistro Daisy, La Petite Grocery....
And, for those who want to try some new ones that have just opened in the past year, although more casual than the above, here is a little lagniappe: Cowbell, Tru Burger, High Hat Cafe, Fat Hen Grocery, Ancora. All of these are no more than 15 minutes from Dante's.