I'm not sure if this is going to help but it won't hurt to try.
befor the storm I worked at La Boucherie Coffee house on the conner of Conti and Charters.339 to be exact. The drinks there are good. on top you could specify how you want your drink.
Esspresso: ask for a 10 sec pour
Bakery: we actually got our pastries from Croissant D'oir. Thats on Ursline and Charters I believe. But you do better going there the LB because you will get it cheaper. They are a cafe' too but they coffee sucks.
Beans... La boucherie sells their beans, but there is this place called the coffee house brewery ( it think thats the name) I know they sell theirs but not sure if the prices are good.

Thanks for the wishes as well, also my family consist of 5 todlers( my siblings kids) would this be a good idea to take them here?

Thanks for the birthday wishes. Would dressing casual be necessary or should we just do the fashion trend at the moment?

I was born and raised in New Orleans, Since the storm I have lived in Atlanta, Ga. I come back home ever so often to visit and clear my head but never really go out to dine because my family would cook what I ask them to cook for me since I can't really get those good ingrediants to taste the same...lol.
Anywho, My birthday is on Sat ad I want to have my siblings and parents to gather at a nice place thats affordable yet where we can laugh loud and still wear casual clothes. Do anyone know of such places? Keeping in mind that my dad is the typical dad that it's hard to get in a "casual clothing" mood. But Who cares It's my birthday weekend.
Thanks N.O.L.A~Peach