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| via: gonola.com |
Luckily we've had the table reservation. There was a convention in New Orleans, so most restaurants were packed. And sure there was a line at "Emeril's" as well.
Our first impression was: Packed. Loud. I've expected a fine dining place, where you can enjoy a top notch meal in a nice and decent atmosphere. I felt more like stepping into a pub in England. I have been to several good restaurants so far, even to one with a 2 Michelin stars awarded chef: The "Becker's"
So my first impression of "Emeril's" was nothing I would have expected, to be honest! Don't get me wrong: the interior was super nice! But there were way too many tables in the restaurant. I don't know if it's always like that, but we were able (or rather FORCED) to listen to every conversation at tables around us. Bummer.
Another "bad" thing: The website and the confirmation e-mail told us: "Our dress policy is casual with no sleeveless shirts for men.". Some people looked as if they walked in straight from a beach bar, or in this case: Bourbon Street. A guy next to our table even wore a Cannabis Lei. Seriously???
Another lady at the table to our right obviously had a wee bit too much wine. She was super loud, and told PG-18 stories. I felt embarrassed - for her.
Enough negativity! Here are some things we've loved:
- The waiters were very nice and attentive!
- AWESOME wine book! I was able to order a glass of Riesling from my old hometown!
- The food was to die for! I've ordered Steamed Mussels in a coconut sauce, and the Tamarind Chicken.
Sorry for the bad pictures, but it felt super wrong taking photos with my cellphone.
Will we go there again? Probably not. Did we see Emeril Lagasse? Nope. Of course not :oD
I could tell M was a little disappointed. He felt overdressed and a little uncomfortable. He was looking forward to this, told his family and friends about finally going to "Emeril's". And now it wasn't anything he expected. He really enjoyed the food, but everything around it was not the way he expected it to be. It made me a little sad seeing him disappointed... Next on our list will be either one of Fabio Viviani's or Stefan Richter's restaurants. Wish us luck...
