"This gorgeous Uptown restaurant was originally a private residence in 1898, so it’s natural that you’d find homey, Cajun cooking inside. The communal-only seating means you’re probably going to be eating with folks you’ve never met before, which can make a meal especially fun if you have a particularly social group that’s along for the ride. The food is all Louisiana flavor, with big cast iron pots delivered to the table stuffed with rice and crawfish etouffee, or small, hand-shaped bowls of crab claws. Plus, if you love the experience, the restaurant often does full buyouts for small weddings and other gatherings." - Chelsea Brasted