Originally Posted by notsosmart

Due to a fortunate turn of events, I will be in New Orleans for one night next weekend. As I have not visited since before Katrina, I doubt that I could find any of the restaurants that were there twenty years ago, let alone know what is good and new now.

So, for one night, where should I go to eat well without breaking the bank? I don't want fancy, and don't necessarily desire "modern, re-imagine Cajun/Creole cuisine". I want something classic that's good, for not too much $$$.

I'll have time for dinner, then breakfast and lunch the next day, so any and all ideas/suggestions are appreciated.

If it helps, I was a trained chef in another long-ago life, so I know what's good and real, but don't mind eating down-home cooking (prefer it) or visiting dive bars and such.

Many thanks in advance!