Who had a "stellar" review when they re-opened post-Katrina?? Please tell me! I'm dying for someone to find one! I think everyone had rocky restarts. Just my opinion.

The Baronne ST. location will be reopened but I don't think they are starting it until 2008. Maybe this year, but I don't think so. The only location that serves food right now is the Vet's location. There's also one on the Northshore and a B.R. location is opening soon. I think that there will be a deli there. I think the Magazine St. location is temporary until the Baronne ST. location reopens. They wouldn't dare lose anymore of that Uptown market by not having any location open out there.

If any of you that live in NOLA want to be adventurous and venture to the West Bank, DiMartino's Muffelattas on General De Galle serves an outstanding muffelatta. They also have another WB location although I don't know where it is. I've had Central Grocery's muffelatta and it is good, but if you eat it there you have to eat it unwarmed, and its not the same.

The best King Cake I have ever had comes from the Cajun Pecan House in Cut Off, LA. Down on the bayou! Their cinnamon pecan King Cake is absolutely heavenly. You can seriously gorge yourself on this one and not be able to help it! Shipping charges are outrageous, though. I wanted to have one shipped and the cake was $30 for a large and the shipping was another $20! Seems like someone's skimming off the shipping charge.

Hands down August! First and foremost. I feel sorry for those of you who have had a bad experience because I have had a wonderful experience every time I have eaten there. And I've been there at least 6 times! A far second would be Alberta. The only thing bad there was the risotto. It was bland and absolutely tasteless. Otherwise, pretty good. Never been to Pelican Club or Vizard's. Herbsaint was really good the one time i ate there.

I would give August another chance if i were you. Its not really fair to judge a place in the aftermath of Katrina. I think that everyone's true colors are shining more brightly these days. I've eaten at August several times and have never been disappointed.

I haven't eaten at any of the others besides Ruth's Chris, but I would definitely recommend Ruth's Chris. They always have great steaks and tasty sides...BTW all items are a la carte but the side portions are probably enough for two to share. Good luck!