Café Sbisa

A Vieux Carré institution (since 1899), Café Sbisa remained closed for nine months after Hurricane Katrina damaged its facade. Nice to see this one come back. It has a reputation for innovative regional cuisine. Tasteful restoration of the ancient building, with exposed brick and strikingly decadent art above the long bar, helps make this one of New Orleans' most stylish dining rooms, while New American touches spruce up a solid menu, which includes speckled trout, bouillabaise and huge steaks and chops.

Café Sbisa also has a nice brunch on Sunday with a roving 'trad' jazz unit.