Café Pontalba

546 Saint Peter Street, on Jackson Square. (504) 522-1180

The menu at Café Pontalba is heavy on New Orleans’ classic cuisine, from casual fried seafood po-boys, jambalaya and etouffee to local specialties, including barbecue shrimp, blackened alligator, and sautéed catfish topped with pecans. The restaurant’s full bar serves cocktails (including an eye-opener Bloody Mary), a selection of wines, and domestic and imported beers.