1. Breakfast: Jimmy J's on Chartres St. This is a little hole in the wall that seats maybe 30 people total that has some of the best breakfast in New Orleans. They also have tables outside on the side walk that are an option if the weather isn't too cold or rainy. They're famous for their french toast, and have about 20 different varieties. They also have about a dozen different eggs benedict varieties. Cost is around $20 a plate for breakfast. They do lunch as well, but I've never done lunch there. Breakfast is what they're known for and what they do as well as anyone in New Orleans.



2. Lunch: I have 2 off-the track recommendations for lunch. One is the Commerce Restaurant on the corner of Camp and Gravier. This is like an old-fashioned diner with a New Orleans flavor. This is where I'd go if I wanted a traditional Po Boy. Bread makes or breaks a po boy, and they have some of the best bread in town. Cost is going to be in the $15 to $25 per plate range.

If you're looking for more traditional plated lunch food, I'd recommend the Ernst Cafe on South Peters Street. It's more of a bar than a restaurant, but the blackened chicken is excellent.

3. Dinner: Brennans is my top choice for dinner in New Orleans. It requires reservations, and it's often booked weeks out. You have to check their website to see if you can get in the night you want to go. Brennans will be in the $100 per plate range. I've had the rabbit, the blackened redfish, and the duck there. All were good. I'd agree with KC that the blackened redfish is the best dish you can get there. It's something completely at a different level. It's so good. I wasn't a fan of the turtle soup, so avoid that. And then you have to do the banana's foster for dessert at least once - they'll come light it on fire at your table and make a big production of it.