Phil,

Fine dining in New Orleans, like in Paris, means that dressing up is usually appropriate. It doesn't hurt to put on the Ritz every now and then. New Orleans is a great place to celebrate a birthday. Nevertheless...

Here's a suggestion: http://www.snugjazz.com/ If you visit this place on a Monday evening, you will see Charmaine Neville perform. I think she has the best show in town. This is in the Fabourg Marigny area just outside of the French Quarter. Just walk up Decatur Street until it changes names to Frenchmen Street. There are a host of local jazz clubs there. This area is not "touristy". Very local, etc. Charmaine Neville is the daughter of Charles Neville, from the musical clan known as The Neville Brothers. You can dress casual and eat local fare while you watch the show, like shrimp Po-Boy sandwiches, etc.

I have dined at all of Emeril's restaurants in New Orleans. A tie is not required, but there is a dress code. These are all good restaurants. However, my favorite restaurant in N'awlins is Bayona. The restaurant is owned and operated by local chef and heroine, Susan Spicer, and unlike Emeril, she still lives in New Orleans. Bayona is located in the French Qtr. at 430 Dauphine St. Telephone is 504.525.4455. This is also a good place for a romantic date!

Speaking of the romantic date thing, you may also want to try http://www.thebombayclub.com/ This place has very late dining during the later part of the week. No tie required, but the place is somewhat dressy. If you don't have a date, you can certainly find one here especially on Thu nights. The piano player comes in at around 9:00p. The bar there is "cigar friendly", so if you'd like a nice port wine with a cigar for dessert, this is the place to do it. I have gotten to know the owner/managers there over the last few years. These are Richard and Lew Fiske, brothers. They run a good operation, and the food is great.

Have fun on your b'day!

Z